The Scorpion & The Wolf, my upcoming YA fantasy novel (coming April 4, 2025) is an homage to the classic swords-and-sorcery books–especially those tales of Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser–that I used to read as a teenager.
“The Scorpion” is a small, intelligent lad from a desert pharaohdom, looking to leave behind his former life as an assassin. But will his blades and skill at magic be enough against those who pursue him?
“The Wolf” is a hulking warrior and shaman from a far-off nation. Fearless, fun-loving, and a physical powerhouse, the Wolf as keenly interested in exploring the world as he is at discovering his next meal.
Pimmi is the small black cat that they adopt along the way. The Scorpion insists that she is good luck; the Wolf is unconvinced. Pimmi is more than an ordinary pet (as is revealed in the novel Stray Cats), but will she be able to help the lads when they are at their lowest?
In addition to heroes, monsters, magic, and fabulous treasures, TS&TW will feature 15 full-page, black-and-white interior illustrations, one for each chapter. All of them are done by Alyssa Scalia, who also did artwork for my books Stray Cats, Pimmi Makes A Friend, and How The Kangal Got Her Mask.
Alyssa recently completed all of the pieces, and to whet your appetite for the book, here they are:
In addition, Alyssa used her images (and some new ones!) to put together a way-cool teaser trailer. Look for more about The Scorpion and the Wolf soon!
Kenton Kilgore writes books for kids, young adults, and adults who are still young. Follow Kenton on Facebook for frequent posts on sci-fi, fantasy, and other speculative fiction. You can also catch him on Instagram.
