As a longtime fan of the Spellslinger series, I knew I had to read the story about Ferius. And indeed adored this. While I had no idea exactly how difficult Ferius’ life is, Way of the Argosi gave me so much insight. This is a must read for fans of the series and Farius.
Summary
A MERCILESS BAND OF MAGES MURDERED HER PARENTS, MASSACRED HER TRIBE AND BRANDED HER WITH MYSTICAL SIGILS THAT LEFT HER A REVILED OUTCAST. THEY SHOULD’VE KILLED HER INSTEAD.
Stealing, swindling, and gambling with her own life just to survive, Ferius will risk anything to avenge herself on the zealous young mage who haunts her
every waking hour.
But then she meets the incomparable Durral Brown, a wandering philosopher gifted in the arts of violence who instead overcomes his opponents with shrewdness and compassion. Does this charismatic and infuriating man hold the key to defeating her enemies, or will he lead her down a path that will destroy
her very soul?
Through this outstanding tale of swashbuckling action, magical intrigue, and dazzling wit, follow Ferius along the Way of the Argosi and enter a world of magic and mystery unlike any other.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
TW: torture, suicidal ideation
Way of the Argosi is a perfect prequel novel about one of my favorite characters from Spellslinger. It gives so much insight not only into the Argosi, but also into my favorite character from the series. Ferius girl, you had a difficult upbringing that got me so emotional. That being said, it’s also great to read as an opener to the Spellslinger stories as it has de Castell’s signature charm, detailed characters, and immersive world. There’s a fantastic narration style which will sweep you away.
And while there are moments of darkness, there are also moments of love and hope. It’s easy to just enjoy Way of the Argosi on a pure adventure level. There’s enough of fast paced action and intrigue to sweep you away. But what I loved the most was the exploration of choice. How we have the option to believe what we are told. In a world of convenient lies and stories to inspire hatred, we can choose our questions. We choose our enemies. Who they are and what we choose to do with them.
Ferius is full of rage against the world. And um, who can blame her? So many of my reactions to this story is burning rage. And outrage. How dare they hurt my favorite? Way of the Argosi is not only Ferius’ origin story, but an important lesson in vs versus them. To know that all of those constructions are made by someone with some purpose.
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Overall, if you loved de Castell’s stories, this is a must read for you. It’s also a hit if you love stories about heroines who have to choose their own future, stories about being an underdog, and finding their power. Find Way of the Argosi on Goodreads, Amazon (US)(UK), Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.