The thrilling prequel to the New York Times-bestselling young adult Summoner series!When stable boy Arcturus accidentally summons a demon and becomes Hominum's first common summoner, he becomes the key to a secret that the powerful overlords would do anything to keep hidden. Whisked away to Vocans Academy so he can be kept watch over, Arcturus finds himself surrounded by enemies. But he has little time to settle in before his life is turned upside down once again, for Hominum Empire is in turmoil. Rebellious intent simmers among the masses, and it will not be long before it boils over. Arcturus must choose a side . . . or watch an Empire crumble. The Summoner TrilogyThe NoviceThe InquisitionThe Battlemage Also in the Summoner seriesThe Outcast (Summoner: The Prequel)The Summoner's HandbookA Fine Welcome: Othello's Journey (A Summoner Short Story) Praise for The Outcast: Shines as a fantasy adventure. The book's quick pacing and intriguing summoning system encourages readers to keep turning pages. --School Library Journal