YA fantasy author Cassandra Clare has already captivated readers with her magical storytelling, and now she’s ready to delve into a more mysterious and edgy territory with her debut adult novel.
Get ready for an exciting literary adventure as the incredibly popular writer, known for the phenomenal success of the Shadowhunter Chronicles series, delves into uncharted territory with their upcoming release. Titled Sword Catcher, this highly anticipated novel is set to hit bookshelves on October 10th, and we’ve got a special treat for you. Exclusively for our readers, we have a thrilling excerpt from the book that is sure to leave you wanting more! So, brace yourself for a gripping tale like no other and get a sneak peek into this sensational new work from a master storyteller. Trust us, you won’t be able to put it down!
The opening line of the book captures the essence of Castellane, a lively city-state where the wealthiest nobles and the most unscrupulous criminals are united in their relentless pursuit of riches, influence, and endless pleasure. It sets the stage for a captivating tale of ambition, desire, and the insatiable craving for excitement in this bustling metropolis.
Meet Sword Catcher, a captivating tale that revolves around Kel, an unfortunate orphan who leads a double life as Prince Conor Aurelian’s body double in the enchanting kingdom of Castellane. Kel’s sole duty as the Sword Catcher is to sacrificially lay down his life for Conor. Growing up as inseparable companions, Kel and Conor have shared an unbreakable bond, having undergone intense combat and swordcraft training together. Despite the impending danger that shadows Kel’s destiny, their brotherly connection remains unyielding.
In an unexpected turn of events, Lin and Kel’s paths intertwine after a botched assassination endeavor, catapulting them into the intricate and treacherous realm governed by the Ragpicker King, the notorious leader of Castellane’s criminal underbelly. This enigmatic figure tantalizes them with promises of fulfilling their deepest desires, yet little do they know that it will entangle them in a enigmatic and clandestine world. As they delve deeper, they gradually unravel a wide-ranging plot of bribery and deceit that extends its dark tendrils even into the highest echelons of power within the palace. Will the startling revelations they uncover ultimately plunge Castellane into the abyss of war?
If you’re itching for a taste of what’s to come in October, we’ve got you covered. Take a moment to delve into the world of Kel and Conor as they cross paths for the first time. Get ready for a thrilling encounter that will leave you hungry for more. So without further ado, let’s dive into this exciting excerpt and discover the magic that awaits!
As Kel sat there, there was suddenly a bit of a ruckus at the entrance. When he glanced up, he was met with the sight of a group of Castelguards swarming outside. It was almost like a menacing wave of fire. Amongst them, a young boy managed to slip in through the door, quickly shutting it behind him with a resolute motion.
Bensimon stood tall, his reaction devoid of any astonishment. He addressed Prince Conor without skipping a beat.
Kel experienced a sudden sinking feeling in his stomach. Right before him stood the very same boy that he had been pretending to be all this time. It was evident that this boy had never faced any illness before. Kel slowly grasped the realization that everything he had gone through thus far had been a trial, and this encounter somehow marked the climax of that test.
The Prince had an attire resembling the color of steel blue, just like Kel. Although he didn’t have a circlet on his head, Kel could easily identify him as royalty. Standing tall for someone his age, he inherited his mother’s delicate traits. There was a captivating flame in his eyes, partnered with a cheerful expression on his face that tempted Kel to reciprocate with a smile, which was quite surprising. Logically, the Prince should have been intimidating because of his royal status, and indeed, he was. However, Kel couldn’t help but feel inclined to smile when he looked at the Prince.
Conor, despite being of the same age as Kel, exuded a wisdom far beyond his years. With a buoyant stride, he made his way across the room and posed a thought-provoking question, “So, what was it like to walk in my shoes?”
Kel felt a sudden pang deep within their chest, akin to a blossoming flower. All of a sudden, Kel yearned to embody the very essence of their role model. They longed to navigate through life with an unwavering confidence, as if the world would mold itself to fulfill their aspirations and wishes. Kel yearned to exude an aura of possibility, as if they possessed the power to effortlessly pluck stars from the sky like playthings within their grasp, with delicate fingertips.
There’s this peculiar feeling that creeps in when you discover a desire for something you never even realized you yearned for. It’s like embarking on an uncharted adventure, where the twists and turns keep you intrigued and wanting more. Picture yourself in the midst of such an intriguing journey. It’s a rollercoaster ride full of surprises and mysteries that captivate your senses, leaving you in a state of awe. Imagine this newfound longing for something you never knew existed, and how it awakens your curiosity, pushing you to delve deeper into the unknown. It’s an exhilarating experience, isn’t it?
Kel simply gave a nod, indicating that everything was satisfactory. Conor, on the other hand, tilted his head to the side curiously, resembling a robin exploring its surroundings. With assertiveness, Conor expressed to Mayesh, “Please excuse us, I wish to have a private conversation with Kel.”
Kel anticipated that the Counselor would resist, but to his surprise, Mayesh Bensimon appeared to be concealing a smirk. Without any objection, the Counselor uttered, “I will comply with your request,” and gracefully retreated from the chamber, his gray cloak billowing behind him.
After his departure, Kel couldn’t help but feel a twinge of longing for his presence. Bensimon had been a constant companion for the longest time at the Palace, someone Kel had grown familiar with. On the other hand, Prince Conor, whom Kel had assumed the identity of overnight, remained unfamiliar and distant.
“Hey there! Conor asked with a playful tone, “Are you a fan of weaponry?” With a mischievous smile, he continued, “I have something interesting for you in mind – how about a sleek dagger? It’s all yours if you want it!”
“What’s the purpose behind it?” Kel inquired, his tone laced with suspicion.
Conor gave a lopsided grin as he spoke, “You know, I’m struggling to figure out what exactly captures your interest. I’m racking my brain, attempting to come up with the perfect way to persuade you to remain.”
“Wait, are you suggesting we actually stay in the Palace? Here, in this magnificent place?”
Conor took a seat on the edge of the smaller bed and began to share an intriguing story. He explained that his father grew up in the kingdom of Malgasi and there was a unique custom followed there. When a prince reached the age of ten, he would be assigned a special companion known as a Királar, which translates to “Sword Catcher.” The main role of this Királar was to serve as a substitute for the prince, safeguarding him against any potential harm. Not only did the Királar mimic the prince’s mannerisms and speech, but they also dressed identically, creating a striking resemblance between the two.
“Can you believe it? Kel couldn’t help but ask, with a mix of curiosity and astonishment. The thought crossed his mind – was it designed to resemble him? It seemed almost too uncanny to be true. Looking for confirmation, he sought to understand the origins of this mysterious entity that bore such a striking resemblance. It was as if someone had carefully crafted it to mimic his very image. A strange and intriguing puzzle that begged to be solved. Kel’s inquisitive nature urged him to dig deeper and uncover the truth behind this perplexing enigma.”
“He sighed, admitting that the upcoming discussion might not be as delightful as other topics. However, he believed in being transparent and straightforward with his audience, emphasizing the importance of honesty. After all, secrets have a way of revealing themselves, sooner or later.”
“You actually want me to take on the role of your Sword Catcher?” Kel asked, his voice dripping with both surprise and skepticism. The idea seemed perplexing to him, considering his previous experience and skills. Yet, he couldn’t help but be intrigued by the notion of being entrusted with such an important task. It felt like a burst of opportunity that he couldn’t easily dismiss. Should he accept this challenge, he would need to embrace his role with unwavering determination and grace. It was a role that demanded utmost attention to detail and specific knowledge, like a puzzle waiting to be solved.
Conor gave a nod of understanding. “You know, my dad could just tell you to do it, but that’s not what I want. I want someone who’s eager to take on the task, not someone who’s just going along with it because they have to. And I definitely don’t want to take someone away from their family either. So, let me ask you this – were you raised in an orphanage?”
Kel gave a nod, his mind too bewildered to formulate any words at that moment.
Conor eased back and allowed a small wave of relief to wash over him. “Well, that’s a relief. At least Jolivet didn’t deceive me.” He turned to Kel, curiosity etched on his face. “What are your thoughts on this?”
Kel expressed concerns about the task, stating that it appears to be risky and challenging. Finding someone willing to take it on might pose an additional challenge.
Conor let out a painful sigh, acknowledging the other person’s statement. He accepted their point of view with a hint of resignation.
The sight of him appearing deflated highlighted the strangeness of the situation. Prior to their meeting, Kel didn’t know what to anticipate from an encounter with the Crown Prince of Castellane. However, he definitely didn’t expect the prince to appear downcast. “Well, why don’t you give it a shot at persuading me,” Kel remarked. “Share with me the positive aspects of it, if any?”
Conor’s gaze lifted, his eyes becoming more animated. “Seriously?” He immediately straightened his posture. “So, you’re telling me that you’d reside in the grand Palace. You’d practically have everything you desire at your fingertips, most of the time. Of course, within certain limits, but be it clothing, books, or anything that catches your eye in a storefront, consider it taken care of. Except, of course, if you happen to set your sights on a colossal jade elephant or some equally gargantuan item.”
Kel, with a serious tone but a mischievous glint in his eye, expressed his skepticism about the feasibility of the idea. He acknowledged that it might appear illogical or unworkable at first glance, but couldn’t help but find amusement in the concept.
“Conor assured me that we would embark on a joint learning journey. Despite Jolivet’s less than pleasant demeanor, he was unrivaled in his skills as a sword-trainer. Under his guidance, I would develop into a proficient fighter. Likewise, Conor’s tutors were providing him with comprehensive education, which they offered to extend to me as well. Their teachings encompassed a diverse range of subjects, including fluency in multiple languages, deep insights into Dannemore’s history, profound knowledge of celestial patterns, and mastery of the Great Equations. It was a promising future filled with endless possibilities.”
Kel couldn’t help but feel a flicker of something inside him. It was like a tiny but powerful flame, far off in the distance. This unexpected sensation caught him off guard. He never thought he would be genuinely tempted by this.
Conor’s voice was gentle as he assured, “You’ll never have to worry about hunger, my dear. Loneliness would never find its way to you. You’ll rest by my side, forever united. Your existence would surpass all expectations, filled with endless wonders.”
Kel sunk into the table, taking a moment to absorb the undeniable sensation of astonishment. The term “extraordinary” danced through his mind, reminiscent of past lessons where it had been encountered.
Conor couldn’t help but lean forward, brimming with anticipation. The thought of encountering royalty, individuals whose bloodline traced back to illustrious heroes, surely sent chills down his spine. Imagine being immersed in majestic performances by the world’s most exceptional dancers and listening to the mesmerizing melodies of the finest musicians. It was an enticing prospect, witnessing the extraordinary sights that only a fortunate few ever get to see. The mere possibility of exploring every nook and cranny of the world was enough to ignite Conor’s wanderlust.
As Kel reminisced, his mind wandered to the White Rock by the Orfelinat. That place held memories of their adventurous voyage, sailing alongside Cas through make-believe seas. They would playfully position marbles on their map to add weight and take turns dreaming about the places they could visit. Deep down, they understood that these far-off destinations were beyond their reach, but that didn’t stop them from delving into their imaginations.
“Hey, imagine exploring the world,” he enthusiastically suggested. “Are you up for an adventure?”
Conor eagerly expressed his agreement with a nod. He emphasized that the majority of the time, you will not be required to assume his identity. Instead, you will be granted a different persona, such as that of a noble. Furthermore, Conor assured the individual that once he assumes the position of King, they will no longer serve as the Sword Catcher, but will instead rise to the esteemed role of the leader of Castellane’s finest soldiers, known as the Arrow Squadron, just like Jolivet. Conor also mentioned the prospect of retiring with honor and wealth in the future.
The idea of honor seemed uninteresting, while wealth appeared to be more appealing.
Conor hesitated, his voice tinged with uncertainty, as if he was unsure of what the other person had in mind. Maybe there was another aspiration he had in his heart, like pursuing a career as a merchant or even rising to the esteemed position of a guildmaster. The weariness on Conor’s face caught Kel off guard, for he had never associated fatigue with well-to-do young men before. Kel reassured Conor that he wouldn’t force him to stay against his desire, emphasizing that he had already relayed this to his father.
It was quite peculiar when I shared the news with my father about the King and his unusual behavior. What surprised me even more was witnessing Conor’s trembling hands as they remained tightly intertwined. It dawned on me that Conor truly depended on him, which was a completely foreign feeling for Kel. In the past, Kel had never been in a position where someone relied on him. Sure, Cas was a friend, but he didn’t need Kel, and the same could be said for Sister Bonafilia and the others. Parents naturally required their children’s support, but Kel didn’t have parents, so he had never experienced the sensation of being needed by another person. This newfound realization stirred a desire within Kel, an urge to safeguard this young boy, the Prince of Castellane. He yearned to stand as a barrier between Conor and any potential danger, even if it meant confronting a forest full of threatening fléchettes. Kel passionately vowed to confront and vanquish any adversary who dared to harm Conor Aurelian.
As soon as he stepped foot inside the grand Palace gates, there was one thing he couldn’t wait to do. Well, okay, apart from devouring a delicious meal.
Did you have any other plans in mind? Perhaps something like becoming a merchant or a guildmaster? Once Kel turned sixteen, he would be forced out of the Orphanage with no money to his name, left to navigate the world on his own. The Orphanage was solely there to assist children, with no consideration for those who had grown up in its walls. Without any training or education, life on the streets of Castellane would be a struggle for him. Even sailors received training from a young age, setting them up for a better future. He might be able to get by as a lamplighter or, if he was lucky, a ship’s boy, but it would mean living in extreme poverty. Another option would be to turn to a life of crime, like pickpocketing or joining the notorious Crawlers gang, although that was the highest he had ever dared to envision for himself. Unfortunately, such a path would likely lead him to meet his demise at the hands of the authorities, swinging from the gallows of the Tully.
As he inhaled sharply, a glimmer of intrigue danced in his eyes. “Did you just say extraordinary?” he questioned, his curiosity piqued.
Conor’s face lit up with a radiant smile, expressing his delight and enthusiasm. He couldn’t help but show his happiness, as his lips curled upward and his eyes twinkled with joy. It was a genuine, heartfelt reaction that couldn’t be contained. The sight of Conor’s beaming smile was contagious, uplifting the spirits of those around him. It was as if a burst of sunlight had suddenly appeared, bringing warmth and positivity to the atmosphere. Conor’s grin was a reflection of his inner contentment, a testament to the joyful moments he was experiencing.