What do you think?
Rate this book
Argosi trilogy #1
Way of the Argosi
The first of three prequels to the bestselling Spellslinger series.
The Alchemist meets The Three Musketeers — with card tricks. A brilliant origin story of adventure, wit, and philosophy to enrapture devotees as well as newcomers to the Spellslinger series.
Ferius Parfax has a simple kill every last inhabitant of the spell-gifted nation that destroyed her people, starting with the man who murdered her parents. Killing mages is a difficult and dangerous business, of course, but when she meets the inimitable and extraordinary Durrall Brown, she discovers that physical strength is not the only way to defeat evil of all kinds. So Ferius undertakes to study the ways of the the loosely-knit tribe of tricksters known for getting the better of even the most powerful of spellcasters. But the Argosi have a price for their teachings, and by the time Ferius learns what it is, it may be too late.
The Alchemist meets The Three Musketeers — with card tricks. A brilliant origin story of adventure, wit, and philosophy to enrapture devotees as well as newcomers to the Spellslinger series.
Ferius Parfax has a simple kill every last inhabitant of the spell-gifted nation that destroyed her people, starting with the man who murdered her parents. Killing mages is a difficult and dangerous business, of course, but when she meets the inimitable and extraordinary Durrall Brown, she discovers that physical strength is not the only way to defeat evil of all kinds. So Ferius undertakes to study the ways of the the loosely-knit tribe of tricksters known for getting the better of even the most powerful of spellcasters. But the Argosi have a price for their teachings, and by the time Ferius learns what it is, it may be too late.
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2021
77 people are currently reading
3060 people want to read
About the author
Sebastien de Castell
57 books4,936 followersHi Folks!
My eighteenth novel, MALEVOLENT EIGHT is now available. Cade Ombra and his misfit band of mercenary war mages are determined to prevent a cataclysmic war between supernatural beings. But peace at any price might mean killing an awful lot of people. The Malevolent Seven might be heroes, but they'll be the good guys . . .
My seventeenth novel is titled PLAY OF SHADOWS. A swashbuckling fantasy set in the world of mystical theatre where exalted actors can channel the spirits of the historical figures they portray on stage. But Damelas Chademantaigne seems to be summoning the spirit of a notorious villain whose secrets could unleash a civil war!
My sixteenth novel is CRUCIBLE OF CHAOS. Estevar Borros is my favourite swashbuckling investigator of the supernatural, so come investigate alongside him and his dauntless mule, Imperious inside a mysterious abbey where the gods seem to be driving the monks mad!
My fifteenth novel is FATE OF THE ARGOSI. The Argosi series is one of my favourites and I hope you'll come along for Ferius Parfax's adventures!
You can get a pair of free stories here.
The best way to stay up to date is at www.decastell.com, but I'm also on that Facebook thing. Also that Twitter thing. One day I'll even remember to get on that Instagram thing.
As to who I am? Well . . .
Sebastien de Castell had just finished a degree in Archaeology when he started work on his first dig. Four hours later he realized how much he actually hated archaeology and left to pursue a very focused career as a musician, ombudsman, interaction designer, fight choreographer, teacher, project manager, actor, and product strategist. His only defence against the charge of unbridled dilettantism is that he genuinely likes doing these things and that, in one way or another, each of these fields plays a role in his writing. He sternly resists the accusation of being a Renaissance Man in the hopes that more people will label him that way.
Sebastien's acclaimed swashbuckling fantasy series, The Greatcoats. was shortlisted for both the 2014 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy. the Gemmell Morningstar Award for Best Debut, the Prix Imaginales for Best Foreign Work, and the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer. His YA fantasy series, Spellslinger, was nominated for the Carnegie Medal and is published in more than a dozen languages.
Sebastien lives in Vancouver, Canada with his lovely wife and two belligerent cats. You can reach him at www.decastell.com
My eighteenth novel, MALEVOLENT EIGHT is now available. Cade Ombra and his misfit band of mercenary war mages are determined to prevent a cataclysmic war between supernatural beings. But peace at any price might mean killing an awful lot of people. The Malevolent Seven might be heroes, but they'll be the good guys . . .
My seventeenth novel is titled PLAY OF SHADOWS. A swashbuckling fantasy set in the world of mystical theatre where exalted actors can channel the spirits of the historical figures they portray on stage. But Damelas Chademantaigne seems to be summoning the spirit of a notorious villain whose secrets could unleash a civil war!
My sixteenth novel is CRUCIBLE OF CHAOS. Estevar Borros is my favourite swashbuckling investigator of the supernatural, so come investigate alongside him and his dauntless mule, Imperious inside a mysterious abbey where the gods seem to be driving the monks mad!
My fifteenth novel is FATE OF THE ARGOSI. The Argosi series is one of my favourites and I hope you'll come along for Ferius Parfax's adventures!
You can get a pair of free stories here.
The best way to stay up to date is at www.decastell.com, but I'm also on that Facebook thing. Also that Twitter thing. One day I'll even remember to get on that Instagram thing.
As to who I am? Well . . .
Sebastien de Castell had just finished a degree in Archaeology when he started work on his first dig. Four hours later he realized how much he actually hated archaeology and left to pursue a very focused career as a musician, ombudsman, interaction designer, fight choreographer, teacher, project manager, actor, and product strategist. His only defence against the charge of unbridled dilettantism is that he genuinely likes doing these things and that, in one way or another, each of these fields plays a role in his writing. He sternly resists the accusation of being a Renaissance Man in the hopes that more people will label him that way.
Sebastien's acclaimed swashbuckling fantasy series, The Greatcoats. was shortlisted for both the 2014 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy. the Gemmell Morningstar Award for Best Debut, the Prix Imaginales for Best Foreign Work, and the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer. His YA fantasy series, Spellslinger, was nominated for the Carnegie Medal and is published in more than a dozen languages.
Sebastien lives in Vancouver, Canada with his lovely wife and two belligerent cats. You can reach him at www.decastell.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
March 6, 2021
9.43 on CAWPILE.
My fav author, one of my fav series, with one of my fav characters... I LOVED THIS
My fav author, one of my fav series, with one of my fav characters... I LOVED THIS
March 22, 2025
”He said all lovers had their own secret language, even if they didn’t know it at first, and that there was no greater joy than a life spent learning it together.”
Ferius is one of my fav characters in the Spellslinger series, so I’ve had my eyes on this spinoff for a long time. based on her personality in the other books, i really wasn’t expecting her backstory to be so rough.. i just wanted to hug her throughout this book. the Jan’Tep took everything from her and yet she didn’t let that cloud her judgement, but she’s still after her revenge which would be earned. i love that Durral became a mentor figure to her and introduced her to the way of the Argosi. this was a story about her reforging her own path and making a name for herself. it made me love her even more for how she took Kellen under her wing in his books. can’t wait to continue and see how she develops into the version of her i know.
Ferius is one of my fav characters in the Spellslinger series, so I’ve had my eyes on this spinoff for a long time. based on her personality in the other books, i really wasn’t expecting her backstory to be so rough.. i just wanted to hug her throughout this book. the Jan’Tep took everything from her and yet she didn’t let that cloud her judgement, but she’s still after her revenge which would be earned. i love that Durral became a mentor figure to her and introduced her to the way of the Argosi. this was a story about her reforging her own path and making a name for herself. it made me love her even more for how she took Kellen under her wing in his books. can’t wait to continue and see how she develops into the version of her i know.
October 25, 2021
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Kaleidoscopic book tours.
Way of the Argosi is the first book by Sebastien De Castell that I've had the pleasure of reading and I can't wait to dive into this series starting with Spellslinger very soon! Why have I not read this series before now!!!
This book is an origin story about Ferius Parfax who from what I can gather, is one of the main characters in the Spellslinger series.
I loved meeting her and Darrell and finding out her back story and how she got to where she is and be who she is. I completely lost myself in this book - I felt like I was there with her and she has become an endeared character to me.
I loved the plot, the narration and the wordbuilding within this cleverly woven book. I've just started Fall of the Argosi today and again cannot put it down!
I don't think reading this origin story complicates reading the series and I feel it could be read at any point through the series.
Way of the Argosi is the first book by Sebastien De Castell that I've had the pleasure of reading and I can't wait to dive into this series starting with Spellslinger very soon! Why have I not read this series before now!!!
This book is an origin story about Ferius Parfax who from what I can gather, is one of the main characters in the Spellslinger series.
I loved meeting her and Darrell and finding out her back story and how she got to where she is and be who she is. I completely lost myself in this book - I felt like I was there with her and she has become an endeared character to me.
I loved the plot, the narration and the wordbuilding within this cleverly woven book. I've just started Fall of the Argosi today and again cannot put it down!
I don't think reading this origin story complicates reading the series and I feel it could be read at any point through the series.
December 11, 2024
Ferius Parfax is left alone as a young girl when her family is killed by a group of mages. She embarks on a journey that takes her from one set of rescuers, to a gang of youthful thieves and finally to the Argosi, Durrall Brown. During all of this, she is still linked to one of the mages.
This is the first book of a trilogy set in the same world as the Spellslinger series. I’ve read and enjoyed that series, but it is not necessary to read it before reading this trilogy. The author is very good with both plot and characters. He writes with wit and imagination. This book has several magic systems, diabolical mages, squirrel cats and mind cages. Ferius and Durrall are both compelling and intelligent characters. I am looking forward to the next book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
This is the first book of a trilogy set in the same world as the Spellslinger series. I’ve read and enjoyed that series, but it is not necessary to read it before reading this trilogy. The author is very good with both plot and characters. He writes with wit and imagination. This book has several magic systems, diabolical mages, squirrel cats and mind cages. Ferius and Durrall are both compelling and intelligent characters. I am looking forward to the next book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
February 21, 2021
I firstly want to thank Hot Key Books for sending me this physical ARC.
I am not familiar with Sebastien de Castell's work or the Spellslinger series, but that did not hinder my experience whilst reading 'Way of the Argosi'.
This is an origin story for the character Ferius Parfax and it is written in a way that allows the reader to fully understand her personality and the reasons for her actions. It is almost as if she is telling you her story as if she were in front of you - there are times her narrations waffles and goes off on a tangent which is not completely relevant to the storyline/plot but she soon realises and then puts herself back on track.
It is quite a different story from the other Young Adult Fantasy books I have read lately and I think that is purely down to the narration, it felt like I was there in the novel instead of sat on the sidelines watching the plot unravel.
The worldbuilding is easy to follow and imagine. There are some characters that I found myself wanting to see more of, but I think they will be 'big' characters in the actual series that is already published.
I have found myself being interested in how her character is portrayed in the Spellslinger series, so I may have to look at those in detail.
I am not familiar with Sebastien de Castell's work or the Spellslinger series, but that did not hinder my experience whilst reading 'Way of the Argosi'.
This is an origin story for the character Ferius Parfax and it is written in a way that allows the reader to fully understand her personality and the reasons for her actions. It is almost as if she is telling you her story as if she were in front of you - there are times her narrations waffles and goes off on a tangent which is not completely relevant to the storyline/plot but she soon realises and then puts herself back on track.
It is quite a different story from the other Young Adult Fantasy books I have read lately and I think that is purely down to the narration, it felt like I was there in the novel instead of sat on the sidelines watching the plot unravel.
The worldbuilding is easy to follow and imagine. There are some characters that I found myself wanting to see more of, but I think they will be 'big' characters in the actual series that is already published.
I have found myself being interested in how her character is portrayed in the Spellslinger series, so I may have to look at those in detail.
December 23, 2021
4.5 of 5 star at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2021/12/21/...
I’ll make this plain and simple: If you enjoyed the Spellslinger series, Way of the Argosi is a must read. Heck, even if you came to this having no prior knowledge of the world or characters, you’ll probably have a good time, but having that background knowledge will pretty much guarantee you’ll love it.
The story, of course, is the story of Ferius Parfax. Before the time of Kellen, before the Argosi, there was only an orphan girl, whose parents were murdered by Jan’Tep mages right before her eyes. She soon came to be adopted by a kind knightly couple, who raised her briefly before they too were killed by the Jan’Tep for taking in a Mahdek child.
Afterward, Ferius sought her revenge, only to outclassed and branded with a mystical sigil that kept her a prisoner of a sort. For many years, she remained tormented by the young Jan’Tep who bested her, until she meets the wandering philosopher known as Durral Brown, a wise and charismatic man who begins training her in the way of the Argosi. Together, they would work to break her chains and Durral would go on to teach her to accept herself and become the indomitable woman we know her to be.
It’s a classic tale—the child who loses her parents to a sworn enemy, and vengeance takes over her soul. And indeed, our story begins by heading down well-trodden territory. Ferius’s life is revealed in something like a series of vignettes, beginning with her childhood and the traumas she’s faced. Turned into an outcast, she is forced to survive on the streets and discovers the power of blending in and becoming invisible to the masses. These early sections were admittedly run-of-the-mill, nothing too ground-breaking that added much to the overall story, though Ferius fans will delight in reading all about the experiences that shaped her.
Of course, the turning point comes when we meet Durral, and everything changes. If you’ve read the Spellslinger series and know anything about the Argosi, you’ll know that they have a very unique and rather eccentric view of the world. The introduction of Durral has a tempering effect on Ferius, whose is finally able to overcome the bitterness that has been stewing in her heart for years. As the narrative became increasingly philosophical, I won’t lie, I rather enjoyed watching Ferius chafe at the same lessons we saw her impart on an exasperated Kellen in the Spellslinger series!
The story in the second half of the book was also much more engaging and original. Durral and Ferius made a good team, the teacher and the student working together to outsmart the Jan’Tep mages holding them captive. In a very short amount of time, I got to feel the camaraderie and the wonderful dynamic between them. Truly, these sections made the book for me, and elevated Way of the Argosi from a simple prequel to an epic adventure that can stand on its own.
This was also a fantastic setup for the next chapter of Ferius’ life, in which she is taken in by Durral and his wife Enna, together known as the Path of Wandering Thistle. There was plenty of hardship and pain in this novel, but never enough to overshadow the adventure and action that made this such an entertaining and compulsive read. The pacing was simply perfect, energetically transitioning through the most formative stages of our protagonist’s life. I loved how this could be enjoyed as a standalone, yet contain so much meaning for fans of Spellslinger at the same time.
Again, it’s worth reiterating how important it is for you to read this if you’re a fan of the main series! I just adore to bits this universe Sebastian de Castell has created. Can’t wait to dive into he next Ferius Parfax story!
I’ll make this plain and simple: If you enjoyed the Spellslinger series, Way of the Argosi is a must read. Heck, even if you came to this having no prior knowledge of the world or characters, you’ll probably have a good time, but having that background knowledge will pretty much guarantee you’ll love it.
The story, of course, is the story of Ferius Parfax. Before the time of Kellen, before the Argosi, there was only an orphan girl, whose parents were murdered by Jan’Tep mages right before her eyes. She soon came to be adopted by a kind knightly couple, who raised her briefly before they too were killed by the Jan’Tep for taking in a Mahdek child.
Afterward, Ferius sought her revenge, only to outclassed and branded with a mystical sigil that kept her a prisoner of a sort. For many years, she remained tormented by the young Jan’Tep who bested her, until she meets the wandering philosopher known as Durral Brown, a wise and charismatic man who begins training her in the way of the Argosi. Together, they would work to break her chains and Durral would go on to teach her to accept herself and become the indomitable woman we know her to be.
It’s a classic tale—the child who loses her parents to a sworn enemy, and vengeance takes over her soul. And indeed, our story begins by heading down well-trodden territory. Ferius’s life is revealed in something like a series of vignettes, beginning with her childhood and the traumas she’s faced. Turned into an outcast, she is forced to survive on the streets and discovers the power of blending in and becoming invisible to the masses. These early sections were admittedly run-of-the-mill, nothing too ground-breaking that added much to the overall story, though Ferius fans will delight in reading all about the experiences that shaped her.
Of course, the turning point comes when we meet Durral, and everything changes. If you’ve read the Spellslinger series and know anything about the Argosi, you’ll know that they have a very unique and rather eccentric view of the world. The introduction of Durral has a tempering effect on Ferius, whose is finally able to overcome the bitterness that has been stewing in her heart for years. As the narrative became increasingly philosophical, I won’t lie, I rather enjoyed watching Ferius chafe at the same lessons we saw her impart on an exasperated Kellen in the Spellslinger series!
The story in the second half of the book was also much more engaging and original. Durral and Ferius made a good team, the teacher and the student working together to outsmart the Jan’Tep mages holding them captive. In a very short amount of time, I got to feel the camaraderie and the wonderful dynamic between them. Truly, these sections made the book for me, and elevated Way of the Argosi from a simple prequel to an epic adventure that can stand on its own.
This was also a fantastic setup for the next chapter of Ferius’ life, in which she is taken in by Durral and his wife Enna, together known as the Path of Wandering Thistle. There was plenty of hardship and pain in this novel, but never enough to overshadow the adventure and action that made this such an entertaining and compulsive read. The pacing was simply perfect, energetically transitioning through the most formative stages of our protagonist’s life. I loved how this could be enjoyed as a standalone, yet contain so much meaning for fans of Spellslinger at the same time.
Again, it’s worth reiterating how important it is for you to read this if you’re a fan of the main series! I just adore to bits this universe Sebastian de Castell has created. Can’t wait to dive into he next Ferius Parfax story!
October 5, 2021
7.86 on CAWPILE
super solid, 10/10 for characters and 9/10 for atmosphere! Plot/intrigue were slightly lacking for me personally but I am excited for the sequel.
super solid, 10/10 for characters and 9/10 for atmosphere! Plot/intrigue were slightly lacking for me personally but I am excited for the sequel.
April 28, 2021
I want to be an Argosi. Ferius can live rent free in my head together with Addie and Juniper 🥺🖤
Want to read
March 19, 2025Do I read this one first or book 1 first I’m confused but intrigued
March 12, 2024
4.5
Review to come
Review to come
May 31, 2021
Way of the Argosi is the first in a prequel duology about Ferius Parfax who was a very prominent character in the original series. I was really excited to hear about this series knowing how much I love Ferius as a character, but I should have known that the Ferius I love would not yet be present as this is a prequel. That is where my enjoyment kind of dwindled. I will say that is on me and not on the book because I didn't go in with the right mindset.
This book however did take a little while for me to fully get settled in. The beginning was a tad on the slow side. There were no real characters to root for other then Ferius if I am being completely honest. Durral Brown was alright but quite bland and the rest of the characters were pretty much forgettable. Bummer I know. Now the story was interesting and is what really kept me interested. Definitely went in a direction I didn't expect, so plus there. It was also just good to be back in this world and get to know about the Argosi who are such Wild Cards.
That is probably all I will go into for this review. Since this is a prequel I have already gone over at length the world and the magic system. Nothing really new to add here. So if you would like to know what I think about those particular aspects I will point you towards my reviews of the other six books in this series. So for right now, I did like this installment but it did not wow me by any means. I am still looking forward to seeing how this series wraps up because I do really like Ferius Parfax.
This book however did take a little while for me to fully get settled in. The beginning was a tad on the slow side. There were no real characters to root for other then Ferius if I am being completely honest. Durral Brown was alright but quite bland and the rest of the characters were pretty much forgettable. Bummer I know. Now the story was interesting and is what really kept me interested. Definitely went in a direction I didn't expect, so plus there. It was also just good to be back in this world and get to know about the Argosi who are such Wild Cards.
That is probably all I will go into for this review. Since this is a prequel I have already gone over at length the world and the magic system. Nothing really new to add here. So if you would like to know what I think about those particular aspects I will point you towards my reviews of the other six books in this series. So for right now, I did like this installment but it did not wow me by any means. I am still looking forward to seeing how this series wraps up because I do really like Ferius Parfax.
February 12, 2022
Tam, kde v případě Divotvůrce začínal Sebastien de Castell relativně zvolna a na Kellena nakládal jednotlivá břímě postupně – s každým dalším dílem přitvrzoval a ztrpčoval mladíkovi život víc a víc –, tam malou Ferius pohřbil pod nános životních tragédií už v otevírací scéně knihy. Autor nejednou ukázal, že se nebojí surovosti a hrdinům klidně fyzicky i psychicky ublíží (a nechá je nést patřičné následky takových činů), přesto si to, čeho se čtenáři stanou svědky hned v začátcích Cesty Argosanů, příliš nezadá s grimdark fantasy pro dospělé. A to se – stejně jako v Divotvůrci – pohybujeme na poli young adult (čistě teoreticky, kdybychom to chtěli hodně zjednodušit, by to vzhledem k věku hlavní hrdinky mohlo být dokonce i middle-grade).
Příběhy Sebastiena de Castella vykazují stále tytéž dílčí neduhy. Autor zbytečně opakuje některé informace a čas od času si v průběhu dění vytáhne nový prvek, který zachrání situaci (ale není to vyloženě deus ex machina). Taky si klidně i během akční pasáže odskočí k vysvětlování. Zároveň s tím však kniha má i všechny klady de Castellova autorského stylu. Je to svižné, dobrodružné čtení, jemuž nechybí slušná porce akce, zvratů a emocí.
Ačkoliv to tak na první pohled nevypadá, Cesta Argosanů obsahuje střípky zajímavých filozofických úvah a Sebastien de Castell opět dokáže nezřídka trefit hřebíček na hlavičku, když vměstná vaše pocity nebo myšlenky do slov, která jste doposud jen marně hledali. Jeho příběhům to dodává jiný rozměr a díky tomu si v nich mohou najít něco i dospělí.
I přes morální šedost některých postav zůstává Cesta Argosanů vcelku snadno čitelná, co se týká etiky a zásadovosti. De Castell dává na odiv ctnostné charakterové vlastnosti, které nezmizí ani pod nánosy křivd a utrpení a pomalu formují mladou Ferius do podoby ostřílené, drzé, ale laskavé světoběžkyně, jíž se jednou stane.
Občas se člověk musí ptát, jestli toho autor Ferius nenaložil příliš mnoho… Ale jelikož víme, že za pár let zachrání (nejednou) život Kellenovi i jeho kočkoveverčákovi, tak se s tím nejspíš nějak popere. Takové už jsou zkrátka nevyzpytatelné argosanské cesty.
Příběhy Sebastiena de Castella vykazují stále tytéž dílčí neduhy. Autor zbytečně opakuje některé informace a čas od času si v průběhu dění vytáhne nový prvek, který zachrání situaci (ale není to vyloženě deus ex machina). Taky si klidně i během akční pasáže odskočí k vysvětlování. Zároveň s tím však kniha má i všechny klady de Castellova autorského stylu. Je to svižné, dobrodružné čtení, jemuž nechybí slušná porce akce, zvratů a emocí.
Ačkoliv to tak na první pohled nevypadá, Cesta Argosanů obsahuje střípky zajímavých filozofických úvah a Sebastien de Castell opět dokáže nezřídka trefit hřebíček na hlavičku, když vměstná vaše pocity nebo myšlenky do slov, která jste doposud jen marně hledali. Jeho příběhům to dodává jiný rozměr a díky tomu si v nich mohou najít něco i dospělí.
I přes morální šedost některých postav zůstává Cesta Argosanů vcelku snadno čitelná, co se týká etiky a zásadovosti. De Castell dává na odiv ctnostné charakterové vlastnosti, které nezmizí ani pod nánosy křivd a utrpení a pomalu formují mladou Ferius do podoby ostřílené, drzé, ale laskavé světoběžkyně, jíž se jednou stane.
Občas se člověk musí ptát, jestli toho autor Ferius nenaložil příliš mnoho… Ale jelikož víme, že za pár let zachrání (nejednou) život Kellenovi i jeho kočkoveverčákovi, tak se s tím nejspíš nějak popere. Takové už jsou zkrátka nevyzpytatelné argosanské cesty.
Read
May 9, 2021I am in the acknowledgements of this book and I love it (also I love the books, I enjoyed it so much, Ferrius is so badass and wow her story! Can't wait for the next one!)
![Profile Image for Nessa [October Tune].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1752675281i%2F7750565._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 30, 2021
I just love Ferius so so much oh my gods.
January 15, 2023
Il m’a fallu un peu de temps pour rentrer dedans car la construction du récit est assez surprenante, mais quel plaisir de retrouver l’imagination de l’auteur ! J’avais adoré l’ambiance et le style de L’Anti Magicien, comme j’avais adoré le personnage de Furia : autant vous dire que partir sur les traces de ses origines était génial ! Un très bon livre qui m’a donné envie de me replonger dans l’univers de l’anti magicien oooops
March 28, 2022
Tohle bylo bohužel zklamání.
Prequel k Divotvůrci měl být stejně skvělý jako původní série, a navíc o mojí nejoblíbenější Ferius Parfax. Místo toho to byla táhlá nuda a Ferius většinu knihy jako by ani neměla hlas. Vím, že ho teprve hledá, ale tady mi hooodně hodně věcí chybělo. Skoro to vypadá, že autorovi nejdou začátky sérií :D Tak snad se to do příště vyšvihne, protože já chci víc de Castella!
3,5/5*
Prequel k Divotvůrci měl být stejně skvělý jako původní série, a navíc o mojí nejoblíbenější Ferius Parfax. Místo toho to byla táhlá nuda a Ferius většinu knihy jako by ani neměla hlas. Vím, že ho teprve hledá, ale tady mi hooodně hodně věcí chybělo. Skoro to vypadá, že autorovi nejdou začátky sérií :D Tak snad se to do příště vyšvihne, protože já chci víc de Castella!
3,5/5*
Read
October 30, 2021What an amazing book!!!! Review coming soon!
April 28, 2021
I did love this one, probably even more than the previous ones on the Spellslinger series!!! I have loved to get to know the origins of Ferius, and I was surprised by the way in which is narrated, specially when you discover why. It's an amazing book, go for it!!
If you want to know why I loved it so much, my vid review will be available on April 28, 2021 here: https://youtu.be/yOOqqdzQ25o
If you want to know why I loved it so much, my vid review will be available on April 28, 2021 here: https://youtu.be/yOOqqdzQ25o
Want to read
May 1, 2021
January 26, 2022
I hate the 1st half of the book, it felt so slow and boring, but the 2nd half with the training really made it up as of course it became a 180 degree difference.
April 10, 2022
Tohle byla bomba stejně jako celý Divotvůrce. Ferius za mě byla jednoznačně nejlepší postavou už v původní sérii, takže jsem prequel z jejího pohledu jen a jen uvítala. Není to vůbec lehké čtení - Ferius si toho hodně vytrpěla. Navíc je její cesta za argosanskými cestami neuvěřitelně fascinující. Už se nemohu dočkat Pádu Argosanů.
4/5*
4/5*
October 2, 2021
Ahh I was so excited for this book!
Seeing the start of Ferius' story was amazing. I loved going back into this universe, especially when the story is about Ferius as she has always been my favorite character from the spellslinger series.
That said, this book was a bit tough to get into at first. Mostly because of that reason. The book starts off very bleak and depressing, and it stays that way for quite a bit. It was pretty tough to get through, especially as I already had an attachment to Ferius as a character.
But the story was worth it. It was really interesting and quite different from the other books set in this universe. I really loved how you could see Ferius grow and change, she picked up more and more traits that we know her to have as an adult throughout the course of this book. Though she's still not the same Ferius we know from Kellen's stories.
All in all, a definite recommendation for any Spellslinger fans.
Seeing the start of Ferius' story was amazing. I loved going back into this universe, especially when the story is about Ferius as she has always been my favorite character from the spellslinger series.
That said, this book was a bit tough to get into at first. Mostly because of that reason. The book starts off very bleak and depressing, and it stays that way for quite a bit. It was pretty tough to get through, especially as I already had an attachment to Ferius as a character.
But the story was worth it. It was really interesting and quite different from the other books set in this universe. I really loved how you could see Ferius grow and change, she picked up more and more traits that we know her to have as an adult throughout the course of this book. Though she's still not the same Ferius we know from Kellen's stories.
All in all, a definite recommendation for any Spellslinger fans.
April 7, 2021
Way of the Argosi follows the backstory of Ferius Parfax, a character from the Spellslinger series - we follow her growing up and the start of her journey to become an Argosi. We start the book following her after her family has been murdered by Jan'Tep mages (fuelling Ferius' rage and hatred) then she gets taken in by a couple of knights, who teach her briefly before they unfortunately die, she then turns to the streets and joins a gang of thieves, before finally meeting Durral, an Argosi who endeavors to try and mentor her in the ways of the Argosi.
I really liked the mentor relationship Ferius had with Durral, in the Spellslinger series she is the mentor character so it was nice to see her take on the role of a trainee. Ferius is quite hot-headed and impatient with Durral's teaching style, but we slowly see her start to take the principals of the argosi on board. Durral was also a great character (I always love a wise older mentor type who loves dad jokes), and I did like the character of Ala'tris at the end but other than that there were no other stand-out charcaters. Ferius and Durral's senses of humour also played of each other really well.
There is quite a lot of philisophical discussion in the book, which I enjoyed and definitely made me think a bit, I really like the Argosi ways and seeing them more in action here was interesting.
I don't think this book added a whole lot to the world, Ferius is an enjoyable character to follow but ultimately it still felt like an add on to a series rather than a book in it's own merit. I do think the plot was engaging though and I think it's still worth reading, especially if you enjoyed the orginial series and/or liked Ferius as a character. I also appreciated how concise the book was, it didn't feel too short or too long and the adventures were fun to follow without becoming a drag.
I really liked the mentor relationship Ferius had with Durral, in the Spellslinger series she is the mentor character so it was nice to see her take on the role of a trainee. Ferius is quite hot-headed and impatient with Durral's teaching style, but we slowly see her start to take the principals of the argosi on board. Durral was also a great character (I always love a wise older mentor type who loves dad jokes), and I did like the character of Ala'tris at the end but other than that there were no other stand-out charcaters. Ferius and Durral's senses of humour also played of each other really well.
There is quite a lot of philisophical discussion in the book, which I enjoyed and definitely made me think a bit, I really like the Argosi ways and seeing them more in action here was interesting.
I don't think this book added a whole lot to the world, Ferius is an enjoyable character to follow but ultimately it still felt like an add on to a series rather than a book in it's own merit. I do think the plot was engaging though and I think it's still worth reading, especially if you enjoyed the orginial series and/or liked Ferius as a character. I also appreciated how concise the book was, it didn't feel too short or too long and the adventures were fun to follow without becoming a drag.
August 15, 2021
A brilliant look at what made Ferius who she is. Interesting to see the background of such a self assured character from the main series.
Story is really well developed and gripping from the off. Sad , dark and twisty throughout.
And more background on the Argosi is more than welcome
Story is really well developed and gripping from the off. Sad , dark and twisty throughout.
And more background on the Argosi is more than welcome
September 27, 2025
First book of a trilogy prequel to the Spellslinger series. lt takes the reader through the Argosi Ferius Parfax's backstory.
Ferius is a young girl who has witnessed her parents murdered before her eyes, along with most of her people. She has struggles as she tries to find shelter and enough food to survive.
She meets different folks who both help and hurt her along the way as she does what she has to.
Just as well written as the Spellslinger series.
Ferius is a young girl who has witnessed her parents murdered before her eyes, along with most of her people. She has struggles as she tries to find shelter and enough food to survive.
She meets different folks who both help and hurt her along the way as she does what she has to.
Just as well written as the Spellslinger series.
January 30, 2023
Getting to know young Ferius Parfax, especially when juxtaposed with the woman she has become by the time she meets Kellen in "Spellslinger", is such an emotional journey.
She's one of my all time favourite fictional characters and this book has only reinforced my love for her.
She's one of my all time favourite fictional characters and this book has only reinforced my love for her.
February 27, 2023
The prequels to the Spellslinger books were every bit as good as expected. I really enjoyed meeting Ferius and seeing into her early years. Although, I wonder if I should? She is such a strong, calm character, her early years are at odds with that. I'm glad I met her in adulthood first.
November 24, 2021
Rep: lesbian mc with PTSD
CWs: violence, torture, genocide
CWs: violence, torture, genocide
March 7, 2021
5/5*
You might be wondering how I was able to read this book already. I pre-ordered it at a german bookstore and they sent it to me prematurely. Great luck for me, because I could already read it. Good luck for you, if you're still not sure about pre-ordering it.
You can safely pre-order this book if you enjoyed any other book by Sebastien de Castell or if you enjoy good books in general.
As always, he delivered a compelling read, that, in my opinion, might be my new favorite of his. Well, ok, I'm lying, I will never love any of his books more than Saint's Blood. This one comes very close though.
Also, I was very happy that a certain... person turned out to be who I thought they would be.
You might be wondering how I was able to read this book already. I pre-ordered it at a german bookstore and they sent it to me prematurely. Great luck for me, because I could already read it. Good luck for you, if you're still not sure about pre-ordering it.
You can safely pre-order this book if you enjoyed any other book by Sebastien de Castell or if you enjoy good books in general.
As always, he delivered a compelling read, that, in my opinion, might be my new favorite of his. Well, ok, I'm lying, I will never love any of his books more than Saint's Blood. This one comes very close though.
Also, I was very happy that a certain... person turned out to be who I thought they would be.
June 20, 2021
This was a much anticipated book as I loved the Spellslinger series so much. It did not disappoint. I loved hearing about Ferius' life and how she came to walk the path of the Argosi. It definitely explained the Way of the Argosi a lot more in this book.
Also a squirrelcat makes an appearance, which I loved.
Also a squirrelcat makes an appearance, which I loved.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews