Magic is a rich man’s game.
Archons control magic in the great city of Aefenhold. Brand-name spells, addictive potions, and celebrity TV keep the poor entertained while they toil in the factories manufacturing magic. That should have been the fate of Max and his childhood friend Lyle, until a violent workers’ strike tears their lives apart, condemning Lyle to the aetherstone mines and leaving Max orphaned with no choice but to sell his labour to a brothel.
Life under the Archon’s rule has given Max a taste for magical narcotics, and left Lyle with aether dust in his lungs and a deep resentment for magic. So when Aefenhold’s rulers announce a televised contest to find the chosen one–a prophesized distraction to unite the city against its detractors–both Max and Lyle see an opportunity to con their way into the contest.
Where Max seeks to steal magic for his freedom, Lyle views magic as a tool of oppression to be destroyed. Their old friendship will be tested as they’re forced to become adversaries against famous rival mages in a series of magical trials. Whoever becomes the chosen one will change the shape of magic forever.
But magic is a rich man’s game, and should Max or Lyle be discovered as frauds, their deaths will be televised next.
The Chosen One Con
The Chosen One Con is the first book in the Lost in the Aether duology—a gaslamp fantasy of industrial magic in a world of designer enchantments and celebrity-branded potions.
I’m excited to be taking part in The Book Bazaar 2025 with my new project, The Chosen One Con! Launching in November, you can help support indies just like me in making their dream projects.
Additional Info:
Series: Book 1 of the Lost in the Aether duology
Genre: Gaslamp Fantasy
Age Range: Adult 16+ See Content Warnings
Book Type: Ebook, Paperback
Pages: TBC
Published: TBC
Edited By: TBC
Cover Artist: James T. Egan of Bookfly Design
ISBN: TBC