11 new science fiction and fantasy book releases to make your May magical

May 2021 release: The Blacktongue Thief – Christopher Buehlman

Horror author Christopher Buehlman’s intriguing fantasy debut The Blacktongue Thief arrives this May, and its chaotic energy and deft humor immediately set it apart from the fantasy pack.

The story follows Kinch Na Shannackk, a mischief-worshipping thief who owes the Takers Guild a small fortune for his education. To pay off his debt he turns highwayman, robbing those unfortunate enough to pass by, and selling their possessions for as much as he can con merchants into giving him. But one day he and his loosely-formed gang pick on the wrong woman. Literally.

After being firmly trounced by a female knight, Kinch finds his fate strangely entangled with hers and ultimately joins her bizarre quest to find a mad queen, common enemies and uncommon dangers force thief and knight on an epic journey where goblins hunger for human flesh, krakens hunt in dark waters, and honor is a luxury few can afford.

The official synopsis describes the story as follows.

"Kinch Na Shannack owes the Takers Guild a small fortune for his education as a thief, which includes (but is not limited to) lock-picking, knife-fighting, wall-scaling, fall-breaking, lie-weaving, trap-making, plus a few small magics. His debt has driven him to lie in wait by the old forest road, planning to rob the next traveler that crosses his path. But today, Kinch Na Shannack has picked the wrong mark. Galva is a knight, a survivor of the brutal goblin wars, and handmaiden of the goddess of death. She is searching for her queen, missing since a distant northern city fell to giants. Unsuccessful in his robbery and lucky to escape with his life, Kinch now finds his fate entangled with Galva’s. Common enemies and uncommon dangers force thief and knight on an epic journey where goblins hunger for human flesh, krakens hunt in dark waters, and honor is a luxury few can afford."

The Blacktongue Thief is available on May 25.