⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Poisoned King by Katherine Rundell is a stunningly written adventure filled with magic, danger, and heart. The writing is lyrical and atmospheric, making it easy to get swept away in the world from the very first page.

Even without reading the first book, I was fully pulled into the story. The characters are bold, brave, and beautifully complex, and the pacing kept me hooked right through to the final chapter. Rundell has crafted a story that’s both emotional and exciting—a perfect blend for YA and teen readers alike.

As soon as I finished, I knew I had to go back and find the first book. This is definitely a series I want to own as a full collection—one I’ll revisit and recommend to anyone who loves fantasy with depth and heart.

Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read this gem!

An incredible adventure with wonderful characters, a captivating world and high stakes. Five stars.

Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC.

I loved Impossible Creatures but I think I might love the sequel The Poisoned King even more - it’s such an incredible story of magic, friendship, loyalty, bravery and fantasy. It’s not publishing until 11th September but you should definitely get your pre-order in now - there are some amazing sprayed edge editions.

Set once again in the Archipelago, we see Christopher return once again to save the dragons but along the way he has to rescue Anya, the second in line to the throne who wants to live wild and free in the forest but is forced to live in the castle. When her grandfather, the king, is murdered and her father arrested she has to flee for her life.

It’s such a wonderful story to read, full of brilliant lines and lots to think about. I loved the characters and Anya is definitely one of the best heroines out there. The fantasy world is created really well and the mythical creatures are abundant - there are so many references to different mythologies and it shows just how much Katherine Rundell knows her stuff.

This was a fantastic sequel by Katherine Rundell. It was great to come back to some characters from the previous book whilst also meeting new characters and another area and culture of the Archipelago.
It's best to have already read Impossible Creatures, however the plot in The Poisoned King is a story in its own right so it is not imperative.
It's quickly paced with plenty of action and of course some some fantastical creatures, this will be loved by both children and adults.

The anticipation of a sequel is often more rewarding than when the book finally arrives and doesn't live up to the expectations.. Impossible Creatures was the "must-read' of 2023; a glorious trip into a fantastical world created by Katherine Rundell.

With so many plaudits, it could be easy for an author to be sidetracked from their game and talent and quickly produce a sequel that doesn't have the heart, but Katherine Rundell isn't that type of writer. The Poisoned King is quite simply excellent.

Christopher Forrester is back; this time on a mission to try and understand why dragons are dying- to save them. Back to the Archipelago he travels - time is running out.

But meanwhile other tragedies are taking place: a young princess discovers her grandfather has been poisoned and her father imprisoned for the crime- she needs to save him from death and also prove that another family member is power-hungry and will stop at nothing to gain power- even if it means killing other creatures

So when Christopher and Anya's paths cross they find they need to join resources, knowledge and skills to battle the enemy.
Joined by a sphinx, dragons and magical birds, the two embark on a race against time - battling against a myriad of challenges.

This is book two in a quintet and book three will be published next year. Comparisons have been made to Tolkien and Pullman but this is a distinctly Katherine Rundell world. Her prose is spell binding- never playing down to the readership - stretching imaginations through vocabulary and plot

This is another wonderful book for young (and old) - a gripping adventure full of magic, fantasy and Impossible Creatures and one that you can't put down until the final pages.

Undoubtedly another masterpiece in children's fiction - is it too early early to say Children's Fiction Book of 2025?

Very highly recommended

Thank you to Bloomsbury Children's Books and Netgalley fro the advance copy.

The highly anticipated follow up to The Impossible Creatures sure didn’t disappoint! I reread the first one in preparation for this and I was suitably hyped! I can’t believe how quickly it went and how absorbed I was.

It was great to be back with characters we’ve come to know and love and be introduced to new ones. With split character perspectives until our characters meet, we get to experience the world of the Archipelago with them. It was a pure joy! And we meet Anya who is an amazing character!

The chapters are also short and snappy and really adds to that extra ‘just one more chapter’ addiction which had me tearing through these pages in record time. It was so effortless and fun to read, I had no problem getting through this book in just a few days. I was hooked to say the least!

The central plot itself was compelling and together with Anya, we unravel the mystery of The Poisoned King. It was seriously such a good story and I’m on tenterhooks waiting for the next one!

What an absolutely beautiful and amazing book. After reading impossible creatures I was so excited to be approved for The poison king. Katherine Rundell is a genius at weaving and crafting a great story. A must read for children and adults.

How on earth do I review The Poisoned King, the second book in the Impossible Creatures series? I could simply write: buy it, read it, gift it to everyone you know!  And I do mean everyone, because I think that adults benefit as much from the exquisite imagination, academic brilliance and unique ability with words of author Katherine Rundell, as the middle grade readership for which this book is written. Like one of her characters, this author 'deplores cliché' and every chapter is blessed with beautifully crafted sentences whether they are describing characters, action or those deeply held truths which reach to the heart and soul of the reader.

As stated earlier, this is the second in a series, and whilst it could be read as a standalone novel, I think that it is likely to be more enjoyable and meaningful if you have read the first Impossible Creatures book in advance (I will put a link to my review at the end of this post).

The story begins with Christopher Forrester being summoned back to the magical Archipelago by a very insistent Jacques, a small Jaculus dragon, who brings news of mysterious dragon deaths which Christopher alone has the ability to investigate. Using the ‘Waybetween’ crossing in the Scottish Highlands, of which his grandfather is the guardian, Christopher and Jacques are met on the other side by Naravirala, a sphinx who is to fly them to a meeting with the majestic dragon Sarkany. They are deflected off-course by a summons to aid a young girl whose life is in grave danger and thus Christopher teams up with Princess Anya Argen of the Island of Dousha, Duchess of the Silver Mountain, Countess of the Winged Forests. Despite her grand titles, Anya would rather be cultivating plants in the forest with her father, or speaking with a flock of royal birds, than attending palace balls and banquets with her grandfather. Having been forced to live at the palace, she has become aware of discord in the kingdom and her rescue by Christopher and Naravirala is timely.

At first it would appear that each child has a different mission to fulfill and different priorities. Christopher is deeply caring, has the instinctive ability to gain the trust of any magical creature and feels duty-bound to investigate the dragon deaths  immediately. Anya burns with the ferocious anger of injustice and desire for revenge. She knows the identity of the poisoner of her grandfather, King Halam Argen. The assassin is not only a cold-blooded murderer but has also framed her beloved father, Argus, for the murder. Having narrowly escaped from being poisoned herself, and with her avian companions the royal gaganas she will use every molecule of her courage to seek justice for her father and expose the traitorous villain. It takes a wise third party to make the children realise that their goals are inter-linked, and an adventure of exceptional courage, deep friendship and encounters with mythical beasts ensues.

As I have come to expect from this author, the narrative is intricately plotted, with wonders revealed on every page, the action and emotion building to a heart-affecting climax. Additionally, I was delighted to find the necessary Belgian joke, plenty more humour and lavish descriptions of food and drink. This book is noticeably shorter than Impossible Creatures and the majority of the chapters are exceptionally short. I feel that this will make it an easier book for many middle grade readers to enjoy independently, additionally it is likely to allow teachers, teaching assistants and parents/caregivers time to read a chapter aloud even when the busy term-time agenda often seems a barrier to shared enjoyment of a book. 

As well as being an immersive and exciting fantasy adventure, for those who care to look deeper I think this story provides some interesting and wise commentary for our current times. The dragons’ age-old wisdom about the dangers of gold being accumulated and concentrated in the hands of just a few men; the reflections on the power and necessity of books, libraries and knowledge; and messages about being true to yourself and choosing your own future are valuable to young and older readers. I expect The Poisoned King to be on many of the book prize lists across the coming year and I can only recommend that you share it with a child you love when it is published on 11th September 2025. I have placed my pre-order with my local indie bookshop and can’t wait to re-read the physical copy!

What an absolutely wonderful book!

This story brings us back into the world of the Archipelago, and builds on it even more. We get more places, people, and creatures, and with more of the world comes more adventure.

We start the journey back with Christopher's 'summons' back by a familiar dragon (who is fast becoming a favourite character) and once he gets there, he's met by more familiar faces. He's then given a very important task, but must aid another before he begins.

This is were we are introduced to Anya, a new character who is facing trials of her own. I loved her wildness, her love of all natural things, of the forest, and new creatures.

But then came events that caused Anya and Christopher to meet and I was invested for that point onward. I wanted to know how Christopher's task would entangle with Anya's and how they would work together once they sorted out all the puzzle pieces in their own quests.

As ever, Rundell manages to cleverly weave moral topics into the story (conversations of good/bad, save one or save the many, the price of greed etc.) that can be a great way to springboard these types of conversations within a context that children reading can relate to. I think this is brilliant - especially as I have a very mindful and curious child who will no doubt want to talk about this when she gets their copy. Very 'C.S. Lewisy',

The way this book ended was lovely. As it's pretty much all adventure, having the book end the way it did was super: as a reader I enjoyed it and as a parent of a child who will read this, I also appreciate it!

I also enjoyed (and welcomed) the expanded 'Guardians Bestiary'. With all those new characters, it was great to see this grow with those new additions!

Overall, a brilliant read that had me hooked early on, adds to the series, and will bring joy to many readers.

I didn’t think it was possible, but this sequel might be even better than the first.

From the moment a dragon woke Christopher up by chewing on his face (!!), I knew I was in for something special. The Poisoned King swept me right back into the Archipelago, and I didn’t want to leave. Katherine Rundell’s imagination is wild and wonderful this world feels alive in a way few fantasy stories do. The creatures, the landscapes, the magic… it all just sings.

But what really stuck with me was the heart of this story. Yes, there are dragons and sphinxes and epic rescues, but there’s also so much about friendship, justice, and the kind of bravery that isn’t loud or flashy, just quietly determined. I adored the girl with birds at her side (seriously can we talk about her? Instant favorite), and Christopher continues to be such a compelling, kind-hearted protagonist.

If you loved Impossible Creatures, this one will absolutely deliver. And if you haven’t started the series yet please do. Rundell’s writing is full of magic, but also humor, tenderness, and so much soul.

I turned the last page and immediately wanted to go back. Counting down the days until book three.

Phenomenal! Astonishingly imaginative.

Impossible Creatures is such a woderful book so I was really excited to read The Poisoned King and... it was even better!

Christopher Forrester is joined by the admirable Princess Anya and they go on an incredible adventure where they meet the most magical and terrifying creatures.

Fast-paced and glorious this series will go on to become a classic, will be adapted for film and will.undoubtedly capture the imagination of many children (and adults)!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.

Utterly marvellous - I laughed, I cried, I added #3 immediately to my ‘to read’ list.
Katherine’s world and the creatures that inhabit it are fantastic - magical and fully formed. The characters come alive and I’m fully invested in their stories

Oh my goodness! I cannot put into words how excited I am to be back in the Archipelago! Impossible Creatures is one of my favourite books of all time. Whilst some were hesitant at the Tolkien and Morpurgo comparisons Rundell was garnering, I’m someone who believes she deserves that praise heaped upon her by the truckload. Impossible Creatures had the makings of an instant classic, and I’m delighted to report that The Poisoned King is joining it.
 
Mal’s absence was a big concern to me going into The Poisoned King, but boy oh boy, Christopher and his new comrade sure do work brilliantly in her honour. Anya is the epitome of those strong emotions we feel as children that we struggle to process and deal with, and when combined with the tragedy that falls at her feet, Rundell shows us a strong, fearsome yet wonderfully vulnerable companion for Christopher. I find this duo simply wondrous, and I will take much pleasure in telling everyone I know about them! (Side note: I already have told family members and friends they NEED to read this book, and I am suggesting you do the same!)

Whilst the plotline does feel suitably darker, after all the audience reading the first book will have grown up a bit by the time they get their hands on The Poisoned King, there is the lightness and dazzlement of the Archipelago that Rundell magnificently jaunts through to counter it. I want to give an honourable mention to Koo, who I one day expect there to be merchandise of and everyone to instantly fall in love with. I was besotted from his first appearance, and I WISH I could have a Koo of my own.
 
Between new creatures, sections of the Archipelago, characters, villains and the threads weaving to and fro from Impossible Creatures, The Poisoned King is a radiant triumph of storytelling. This book is not only a delight for readers of all ages today, but destined to shine just as brightly on bookshelves for generations to come. Furthermore, Rundell is laying the groundwork for what’s sure to be a tremendous third instalment in the series.
 
With Impossible Creatures: The Poisoned King, Katherine Rundell cements her place as one of the most captivating voices in children's literature. This sequel is a must-have for fans old and new. I urge you to preorder your copy ASAP and be sure to check out Rundell’s upcoming tour dates. If her storytelling on the page is anything to go by, those events will be nothing short of magical and an unmissable opportunity to step even deeper into the world of the Archipelago…

While my list of upcoming titles that I’m desperate to read is – quite naturally – different from those of many of my fellow children’s fiction-reading friends, this is a read that I suspect is on everyone’s list. The much-anticipated sequel to 2023’s Impossible Creatures, a book so brilliant that it not only won the Waterstones Children’s Book of the Year but the overall prize that year too, when I spotted that it was available to wish for on NetGalley, such was the thrill I felt that I broke out in goosebumps.

Having not been successful in my previous wishes, and being the eternal pessimist that I am, I wasn’t expecting to be approved so I was reading something else when the email came and had to wait 24 hours until I could start it but that only served to increase my anticipation when I did pick it up. Incredibly imagined and exquisitely executed, this is everything I hoped for and more as the book returns to the world of the Archipelago after the shocking conclusion of Book 1, in a story that will surely be in contention for not just Waterstones Book of 2025 but a great many other prizes too.

When we meet Christopher for a second time, it is a few months since he returned to the home he shares with his father and he is being woken up by Jacques – a small jaculus dragon – chewing on his face; not in hunger, or as a sign of affection but to alert him that his presence is urgently required once more in the Archipelago. Explaining that dragons have mysteriously been dying, Jacques tells his baffled friend that, as an outsider, he is the only human that the dragons will trust to uncover what is going on and the boy hurriedly packs a few essentials before heading to the waybetween that bridges his and Jacques’s worlds.

Arriving in the Archipelago, Christopher is greeted by sphinx Naravirala, who has come to assist him but who also tells him that there is a child in trouble, at risk of death, and that he must help her. At the same time, on the Island of Dousha, Anya, is high on the rooftops of the castle in which she lives, intent on protecting an egg laid by one of the royal gaganas – an egg that is being sought by soldiers despite the birds being protected by law. Successful in her mission, Anya takes the precious egg inside with her and reflects on the events that have led to her being forced to live within the castle’s walls instead of the forest where, as a younger child, she and her father enjoyed far more freedom, little knowing that her life is about to be completely turned on its head.

With destiny decreeing that the lives of the two children are bound together, both must seek the truth about the fate of not only the dragons but also some of the other inhabitants of the Archipelago. Joined by friends old and new, Christopher and Anya must undertake a bold and daring quest not just in their efforts to protect the dragons but also to avenge the death of the poisoned king…

I said in my review for Impossible Creatures that to call that book either an adventure or a fantasy was to do it a great disservice and that statement holds true again here. What sets that book and this one apart from other middle grades is the author’s ability to involve you in the world she has created so that you feel as though she is telling the story to you and to you alone, making you feel almost physically hooked into its narrative. Very few titles hold my attention like Katherine Rundell’s do and the further into the book I got, the greater the need I felt to continue reading – if reading were addictive, I would’ve needed serious assistance from the NHS to break myself free of the story’s pull and I know that I won’t be the only one to experience that.

You don’t need to have read Book 1 to enjoy this, but I can’t begin to stress how much more you will enjoy this if you have and are already familiar not just with Christopher and Jacques but several other characters that reappear here. Having first visited the Archipelago in Impossible Creatures, Christopher is a little older and much wiser than he was when we first met him and is more aware of the ability he has that allows him to build relationships with the animals who live there, but the crucial role he played in that previous outing has not made him arrogant or reckless as it might some individuals, making him a hero who is both entirely credible and very likeable. In Anya, he meets someone with whom he immediately feels a deep bond, but he is unafraid to tell her things as they are and prioritise his mission to save the dragons over her needs if necessary.

With the very back of the electronic copy of the book I read dangling a metaphorical carrot for the as yet untitled Book 3, expected autumn 2026, I am now left in the most desperate need of that to see how the story continues. It will, of course, be added to my list – and many others – once it is announced.

Ahead of that, the most enormous thanks are due to publisher Bloomsbury and to NetGalley for my advance, virtual read of this title. The Poisoned King publishes in hardback on September 11th and is one to preorder now.

A sweeping sequel into a magical world that is filled with magic, wisdom and adventure.

I have been anticipating returning to the Archipelago ever since I turned the final page of Impossible Creatures and I was, again, swept into a hugely imaginative world of adventure, peril and the fight to do what is right, to seek justice and to hold on to hope.

Christopher is awoken by a tiny tea-cup sized dragon chewing on the end of his nose and is implored, is quested, with returning to the Archipelago to save the dragons. Meanwhile, a new character - Anya - longs to escape the castle tower, frilly dresses and comportment lessons. But a devastating, life-trajectory-changing event, means her escape is not as she planned. And so our heroes paths are thrown together.

I adored meeting the mythical beasts familiar and new and the Bestiary at the end is a wonderful deepening of the storytelling. Spending time with familiar characters gave this a comforting feeling of being in safe hands, and although I missed Mal Alvorian, Anya steps into her space (but, crucially, not her shoes) giving us a new perspective and a new fight.

Rundell writes with remarkable elegance, using a wide and expressive vocabulary that respects young readers' intelligence. With just a few carefully chosen words, she conjures vivid scenes, offering readers the opportunity to build a world in their own imagination, making the story feel uniquely their own. No reader will experience the story the same way. It's, yet again, ingenious unmatched storytelling for children and adult readers alike.

Readers who long for escapism, magic and a path to hope, will adore this new adventure that is charged with a wisdom that will stay with you long after reading.

Like every good magical story, we begin with a boy called Christopher Forrester being unexpectedly woken by a tiny dragon chewing on his face. 🐲 Christopher has longed to return to the world of the Archipelago - the secret islands where impossible creatures thrive - at least, that’s where they used to. Dragons are being wiped out, killed by an unknown threat. As a guardian of this realm, Christopher feels a deep sense of duty to answer this call, and hurries back through the secret entrance in Scotland, to assist his magical friends in solving this terrible mystery, but alongside this, he rescues an extraordinary princess. 👸🏼

Princess Anya would much rather spend her life with her beloved royal gaganas and her beloved father in the forest behind Argentina Castle, where winged unicorns drink from the Great Lake. 🦄 A life she hasn’t enjoyed since her grandfather decided to bring her up as a royal ornament under the constrictions of the castle. But then her grandfather is murdered, 🩸 speculation falls to her father who is jailed, and her uncle sends her away whilst he reigns as Regent. Narrowly avoiding an assassination, 🔪 Anya is rescued by Christopher, and together they set out, not realising just how connected their quests are. 🦜

Overview:
✨This is a magical sequel to a timeless classic in the making. Katherine Rundell is a fantastic writer and having heard her speak in interviews, I love the grace she brings to children’s publishing, and I hope she inspires lots of kids out there to pick up, what perhaps might be their first ‘grown up’ book. There are big words and I love that young readers are challenged with an expansive vocabulary. 🤓
I wish this book every success with publication, and I look forward to receiving my hard copy in the post upon release!

Pick this book up for yourself or your kids!

💚💛💚💛💚

A Spellbinding Return to the Archipelago

I am beyond thrilled to have received an advanced preview of this incredible book—my heartfelt thanks to the publishers for the opportunity to dive back into this world before its official release. From the very first page, Katherine’s writing swept me away once again. Her storytelling is nothing short of masterful—easily standing shoulder to shoulder with greats like Philip Pullman.

I won’t add any spoilers!!
When Christopher Forrester is unexpectedly woken by a miniature dragon chewing on his face, I knew we were in for a wild, magical ride. What follows is a whirlwind of adventure: a daring rescue atop a sphinx and a confrontation in a dragon’s lair. It’s all written with such vivid imagination and emotional depth that I found myself grinning, gasping, and holding my breath from chapter to chapter.

Katherine has crafted a world that feels both ancient and fresh, full of wonder and danger in equal measure. It’s a rare gift to capture the mythic and the human so seamlessly—and she does it with elegance and heart.

I felt so privileged and ecstatic to receive an early copy, and I cannot recommend this book enough. A must-buy for fans of the series, and for anyone who still believes in the power of stories to transport, transform, and inspire.

I absolutely loved Impossible Creatures and couldn't wait for the follow-up, though felt it was some act to follow. As it turns out, my only criticism is that it wasn't nearly long enough. I could have read four, five times as much! I'm not going to rehearse the plot details, more appreciate the quality of the writing. It is an extraordinary feat of imagination, sure, but I really think what sets it apart is the warm humour that runs through it. The character of Jaculus, the tiny dragon (with a big chip on his shoulder) is a truly marvellous creation.

Now, how long until part three??

The Poisoned King is a brilliant sequel to the first book, I actually enjoyed it even more, which is a rare thing. The book is beautifully written, the characters are magical and interesting (and I very much appreciate the glossary of magical characters at the end of the book!), the storyline was great, I love the dialogue and it was fast paced. I read the first book together with my 9 year old, and I she will definitely want to read this book too.

It follows Christopher as he returns to the Archipelago to help save the dragons, and introduces a new character / storyline via Princess Anya of Dousha and her quest to save her father, along with old favourites - Jacques (the Jaculus dragon), Nighthand, Irian, Naravirala and my personal fav Ratwin.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my opinion (which is all my own).

Impossible Creatures returns with the second instalment: The Poisoned King. With dragons, murders, and kick ass characters, what is not to enjoy? A great adventure in the Archipelago. Hoping there will be a book there!

What a wonderful follow-up to the first book and this one I enjoyed more than the first one. I read this in an afternoon and didn't want to put it down. I'm hoping there will be more. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

Another excellent trip to the Archipelago. I loved this as much as Impossible Creatures and especially liked the edition of Anya, Gallia and Koo.

I look forward to recommending this to my Year 7s.

I have been so impatient to return to the Archipelago despite the heavy grief after the first instalment. I missed Christopher and Jacques so so much and even though it felt like a bit of an effort to let new characters into my heart, Anya and her gaganas are spectacular and precious. It felt like returning to Narnia: a year had passed and Christopher had created a life in the Outerlands, unable to shake the memories of Mal and everything they did together until a particularly tiny and obnoxious dragon summoned him back into the fray. And all it took at the end was for Christopher's name to be uttered by a certain someone and I started to cry. There is something about the way this world has been built and how deeply you are invited to care about it all.

I love how these books do not shy away from rage and fury and sacrifice and bloodshed, that the main characters might be young but they are full of power and the clearest understanding of how to do what is right.

My only criticisms would be that elements of Anya's character felt a bit cliche and parts of the story felt rushed, not in logic but the pacing was so fast I felt a bit bewildered at times towards the end.

This book was also full of the same deliciously smart and blunt sense of humour that makes it feel like you're part of their world for being able to understand it all. And despite all the dangers and the risk of dramatic death, I loved getting to be a part of their adventure especially when it involves saving dragons and dealing with a malicious member of the royal family.

Thanks to Netgalley for making my day with this arc.

In this sequel, Christopher is summoned back to the the Archipelago when the dragons start mysteriously dying. He also helps a young princess avenge the murder of her grandfather the king.

This author never fails to achieve! Old characters are skilfully developed, new characters add extra depth. The writing is beautiful, the plot fast moving, the whole keeps the pages effortlessly turning. Wonderful

Title - the poisoned king
Author - Katherine Rundell
Release Date - September 2025
Page Count - 336
Read/Listen Time - 7hrs
Brief overview - an excellent follow up to the outstanding impossible creatures
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /4 stars

Impossible Creatures was a stand out for me in back in 2023. Not since the Harry Potter series have I been so enamored by a children's book. The Poisoned King is an excellent follow; I was worried given the ending of the first book. In The Poisoned King we are introduced to some new characters and fantastical beasts; some old friends are thrown in there for good measure too.

Anya is an amazing young princess who flees for her life following a heinous murder. She meets up with William, and together they go on a journey to save Anyas father, the dragons, and the entire future of the archipelago.

An outstanding read and one for the bedtime storytime with the kiddies. Loved it.

Thank you you @netgalley and @bloomsbury for the early e-arc in return for an honest review.

In The Poisoned King, Rundell plunges us back into the magic of the Archipelago, full of fabulous creatures, witty writing, and good old-fashioned adventure.

The book begins with Christopher being summoned back to the Archipelago to save the creatures he is sworn to protect. His journey soon intersects with that of Princess Anya, who he saves and helps to avenge a poisonous plot. Along the way, Rundell introduces us to new magical creatures alongside some old favourites.

I liked Princess Anya, who was interesting, sympathetic, and thankfully largely (but not entirely) devoid of Rundell's tendency to make her female protagonists disgusting. Like Impossible Creatures, The Poisoned King ends with a somewhat didactic moral lesson.

In the end, I really enjoyed The Poisoned King, though it felt like a standalone adventure separate from and less original than the first book. I really look forward to Book 3, which I hope will pick up on the plot line hinted at in the last chapter! Overall, the Poisoned King is a worthy sequel for fans of Impossible Creatures!

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This really is a worthy sequel to the first book in the series, titled Impossible Creatures. Christopher has been longing to go back to the magical archipelago that he is tasked with helping to protect, even though he is an Otherworlder, belonging to our own sphere. But he doesn't know quite what he is getting into this time...

Caught up in Princess Anya's quest for justice as she attempts to deal with a foul plot, Christopher encounters a host of amazing creatures. Indeed, at times it feels like too many!

The story begins with an excellent hook, and Koo is an adorable addition. The adventure is engaging and the ending is also well done and leaves the reader eager for more. This series is shaping up beautifully and is worth checking out for any reader.

Loved the start and end of this, the characters of Anya and Christopher are brilliant and can't wait to see where the story goes next. The ending already has me looking forward to book three. I think perhaps a little bloated in the middle, it felt quite info heavy with characters thrown in just to hit the impossible creatures brief. I think anyone who likes mythology and mythological creatures would really enjoy this and get lost in the world.

Thank you to Katherine Rundell, Bloomsbury, and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!

A sequel to Impossible Creatures, The Poisoned King follows the adventures of Christopher, an ‘Otherlander” (our world) charged with protecting the Archipelago, and Anya, a princess wishing to avenge a poisonous plot.

TPK was an engaging read with strong vocabulary aimed to stretch middle grade readers, much the same as with Rundell’s other novels. It read well, the plot was interesting and paced perfectly, and the world-building was just as excellent as the first novel. Anya could come across a little cliché and trope-y at times but it didn’t detract from the enjoyment of the book. I liked the tie-in with several plot points from the first book at the ending and look forward to the next instalment!

My daughter has been a Katherine Rundell fan since she read The Explorer. She was very excited to have the opportunity to read The Poisoned King. Her review is below.
A well made book, skillfully written.
The start was an instant hook, I couldnt put it down, and the characters are very interesting, I especially like the new heroine, the banter between them all is very enjoyable. I like how it brought back old characters and added new ones, Koo was very cute and the ending part was very emotional and powerful. A few of the flaws were that some parts of the plot and the ending were quite guessable. Overall a great sequel to a stunning series.

This is the second title in Rundell’s Impossible Creatures series. While someone new diving straight into the book may be slightly confused as to what is happening, they will soon pick it up, as will a seasoned fantasy fan, but the good thing is there is no patronising recap which often happens with sequels.
Christopher returns to the Archipelago, summoned by a dragon worried about the deaths of other dragons. We meet again some of the mythical creatures who featured in book one. Mal in book one is referenced, but doesn’t make an appearance. Instead we have an equally fiery, independent female protagonist in Anya, Princess of Dousha. Anya had loved living in the forest with her Father, but her Grandfather decided she was too wild and brought her to live in the castle to be educated in the ways of Princesses. Despite this Anya still manages to care for creatures, rescuing the egg of a Gagana so it hatches before royal soldiers destroy it.
When the paths of these two children intersect they are both determined to right a wrong, each willing to help the other after their own cause is solved. But what they begin to understand is that both quests are intertwined and working together will reach the same solution.
Christopher in this book understands more of the duties of a Guardian of the Archipelago. Anya, having experienced a bereavement, at first burns with revenge but does not sink to the level of the villain when deciding their fate and reasons this out thus giving those quick to judge pause for thought.
There is adventure, suspense and of course brilliant writing. Conservation is a strong theme, albeit of mythical creatures, but the message for our world is easily translated and children will pick up on this immediately. Not normally a fantasy lover I make an exception for Katherine Rundell because she doesn’t speak down to children, subtly educating them (and me) without preaching.
The chapters are short making it a slightly easier read than the first scene-setting book, but this still remains a meaty read for children of 10+ or a great book to read aloud to years 5-7. Black and white chapter headings are promised for the hardcopy but the cover is as vibrant and exciting as the first.

Absolutely phenomenal! What a joy it was to return to Archipelago for another whimsical, high-stakes adventure. I truly love how Rundell encourages a love of nature and conservation in her younger creatures through her wonderfully unique and loveable creatures, alongside her strong-willed and caring characters. Truly a job to read!

This is a book for adults who want to read a children's story reminiscent of C.S .Lewis and for children who want an adventure with the most glorious magical beasts. Written as a sequel to the highly acclaimed "Impossible Creatures", this new story takes us again into a fantasy world of kings ,oceans, magic and quest underpinned by philosophical musings but lightened by wit. In this tale Christopher returns to the world through the lake to save the dragons who are inexplicably dying. Meanwhile the princess Anya witnesses the death of her grandfather ,the King of the realm and sets out to seek justice for him. Inevitably the two children meet and work together. Unlike many of the current fantasy adventures this is more restrained in terms of the emotional journey the children go on but this is no bad thing. In its place is much detailed and vivid description of the creatures and their surroundings which are sure to spark imagination. Put simply, this is very good.

My thanks got to Bloomsbury and to NetGalley for this advanced copy.

Arc received from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

I LOVED this story - possibly not as much as I loved the first book, but I was so happy to be transported back into this world again. Rundell’s world-building is just exquisite, with new and old characters making appearances as well as the plethora of creatures that I loved.

Christopher is back in the Archipelago again! Summoned by Jacques, Christopher must find out what is killing the dragons and if he can stop it. Along the way, he meets Anya. Though different than Mal (who I did miss), she is a fiesty, good-hearted child who has experienced a great tragedy in her kingdom. The lives of Christopher and Anya entwine, with their stories and missions meeting each other and connecting thoughout the novel.

It was lovely to meet Irian, Nightmand, Naravirala, Ratwin and Jacques again, and I enjoyed meeting the gagana and Arach. I think Rundell finds a way to introduce quite a few characters in a short space of time, but you don’t lose track of who she’s talking about. With the creatures, there is a handy guide which you can use to refresh yourself if you forget their characteristics. I would have loved to see more of Nighthand and Irian in the book than I did, but I enjoyed their contributions, particularly towards the end of the book.

Overall, this was a joy to read and 2026 can’t come fast enough for the next in the series!

Really enjoyed this second book (maybe a little less than the first one; I missed the dynamic between Mal and Christopher), it is a great return to the universe of Impossible creatures!

An enjoyable return to the wonderful world of the Archipelago.

The book opens about a year after the events of Impossible Creatures. Christopher has returned to his everyday life but still dreams of Mal and has a bag packed ready to return to the Archipelago. When dragons start dying in suspicious circumstances it is decided that Christopher, as an outsider, is best placed to help.

Alongside this quest to discover what is causing the deaths, Christopher is asked to help Princess Anya. Brought up in the forest she has found it hard to adapt to royal life and prefers the company of her beloved gagana birds to people. With Anya's life in danger Christopher comes to her rescue and she gets involved in his efforts for the dragons.

I really enjoy Katherine Rundell's writing. She is a wonderful storyteller who can create beautifully vivid scenes. I love that she includes words that children are unlikely to have come across and will likely need to look up. It's always in a positive way that makes you want to know about the word, rather than being a barrier to enjoying the story if you don't understand it.

The story encourages readers to continue on with the book. Chapters are short and each leads on to the next in a way that makes it difficult to find a place you are willing to put the book down. The mythical creatures are again the stars of the book for me. My advance copy didn't have all the artwork, but based on the first book I am sure it will be wonderful.

I didn't enjoy this story quite as much as Impossible Creatures. I found Anya quite unlikeable, even more so than Mal was in Impossible Creatures. Her behaviour is awful and I found one scene in particular quite unsettling. I realise she is a child and that books offer a way for children to get to grips with their emotions but I felt that went too far. I will say that the overall message of the book is very much about not choosing violence and there is character development.

The whole story with Anya's family felt too simplistic. It was bizarre that everyone just went along with things and no one was suspicious of the person who actually stood to gain. Likewise the ending to that plotline was also tied up in a very 'and they all lived happily ever after' fashion. This book seems to be written for a slightly older audience than the first as it deals with some more mature issues. Therefore it was disappointing that the subplot rather glossed over things.

Where the story shone for me was when the focus was on the mythical creatures themselves. The descriptions are vivid and I love that they go beyond the basic species you might expect. The non-human characters were my favourites. Some of the new ones in particular were fabulous. You really want to escape to the Archipelago and live there yourself.

An enjoyable fantasy adventure.

As a teacher, I’ve used many of Katherine Rundell’s books as part of our curriculum and love her style. She has a very clear style of writing which I enjoy and think is a great example to children (learning to speak correctly and write well).

I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series to be honest. I found this one really fast-paced and action packed in a way that was easier to follow than the first. I liked how we revisited events and met people from book 1.

The characters, as in all her books, are likeable and rebatable for children. They would feel what the characters feel and the added bits of humour always go down well with my middle grade children.

I look forward to putting this in our library when it is released and building the hype for book 3-5!

Wow. Another stunning book in a beautiful series by Katherine Rundell. Full of mystery, intrigue and magic, it's a dazzling adventure with a pacy plot. Dragons, deadly secrets, and the fire of revenge - what more could you ask for?

When Christopher is called back to the Archipelago to help the dragons, he jumps at the chance and, after scribbling a note for his dad, leaves immediately.
Meanwhile, Anya's life is changing in ways she never thought possible. When their lives collide, the pair must work together to fight for truth, justice and the fate of the islands and their inhabitants.

Ok, so even writing the synopsis was tricky as I really don't want to give anything away about this book. Having loved the first book in the series, it was with huge amounts of joy that I found myself able to read an early copy of The Poisoned King. I knew it would be good (has anything Katherine Rundell has written not been?!) but I have to say that it blew me away and is quite possibly even better than the first book!

As you would expect, the world building is extraordinary and you find yourself completely transported to the Archipelago and immersed in its world. It was lovely to catch up with familiar characters but also wonderful to meet new ones. Christopher continued to show his allegiance and commitment to the islands and it was great to see him again, however, for me, Anya stole the show (actually I think Jacques may have done that!). She is strong, fierce, determined, and loyal in a way that will fill readers with hope. She is a character that readers are going to love.

The plot itself is completely immersive and I'm so pleased I was able to read the book in only 2 sittings (I started it on a flight and then promptly ignored my family the following day whilst reading it in the sun!). At the end of term, there were parents and children at school who were rather jealous that I'd been able to read this before its publication date and I can say to them (and indeed everybody) that the book is absolutely worth the wait. It's a masterpiece in storytelling that will leave readers desperate for book 3 (coming next year) and with a desperate urge to head to Scotland to see if, just maybe, they can find the waybetween themselves.

Impossible Creatures: The Poisoned King publishes on the 11th September and is a book you have to pre-order.

Thank you NetGalley for this Book.
Oh my where do I begin. This entire series has an infinity rating from me and hello I need book three like right now.
This book is for everyone from middle school till people high in age. It has found family , female rage, funny side characters ( my favourite is obviously Ratwin ), a very small subplot of Romance which was executed perfectly, political intrigue/ treachery. Furthermore it had mystical and fantasticall creatures which reminded me a little of Narnia ( in a good way) . The author combined humour with exceptional writing where at some points I was laughing so hard and in the next I was on the edge of tears. Please do yourself a favour and pick this series up it won’t disappoint you .

I was absolutely delighted to be sent this! So wonderful to reunite with familiar characters and creatures in the Archipelago and to be introduced to others. This second book in this utterly engrosssing sequence does not disappoint - lots of suspense and intrigue (with some humour too!). A triumph of storytelling.

5/5 ⭐️
“Fear is a fair exchange for love (…) Fear has wisdom in it, if you treat it well.”

Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the ARC of this book.

Unsurprisingly this was a great sequel to Impossible Creatures.
The new characters were as delightful as the returning ones.
I half expected a Narnia-style time jump that would allow us to have the Immortal back to the same age but I do understand why we did not. And I’m more than glad to have met Anya and her flock. The link to The Odyssey was also a nice touch!
Cannot wait for the audiobook version so I can have Sam West back in the Archipelago.

Impossible Creatures is one of the best middle grade fantasies I have ever read and yet, somehow, Katherine Rundell manages to outdo herself. I devoured this book. I read nearly all of it on one train journey because I genuinely could not put it down. If the first book was sorrow, this book is hope.
Christopher has grown so much over the course of the two books. Even though there is a time jump, his growth still feels very realistic and gradual. Anya is a fantastic addition to the cast. She is a wonderful character who grows so much over the course of the one book. And Jacques is probably my favourite character, maybe of all time.
I adored this and I will be waiting with bated breath for book three!!!

This was a fantastic sequel. Me and my little boy really enjoyed this one, we’ve been reading them together. This is one that I could read by myself as an adult and thoroughly enjoy. The plot is perfect and the writing is spectacular.

Katherine Rundell's The Poisoned King is a brilliant sequel to Impossible Creatures. The world building of Archipelago continues to enchant and the characters of Christopher and Princess Anya bring a solid mixture of empathy and bravery.

This sequel is just as superb as the first in the series. I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t bear to put it down. Fantastic creatures, a feisty princess, mysterious dragon deaths and treachery…everything you need for a brilliant story to come together through the pen of Katherine Rundell.

What a sequel!! What a book!!

This book is a five star read. Katherine Rundell is an author capable of using words to wield magic for the reader.

The storyline is magical, thrilling and emotional. The magical beasts are wrought with character and detail. Christopher, Fidens Nightand, Irianne Guinne, Ratwin and Naravirala all return to make for a warm return for the reader. But not before they meet Princess Anja who is caught up in royal intruige. Anja is not the kind of princess you'd find in a fairytale and her personality is fierce and passionate.

Katherine Rundell treats children with the respect they deserve, so the story is filled with real risk, which you'll know if you've read book 1.

I personally adored the dragons, Christopher is 'summoned' back to the archipelago by Jacques, the smallest dragon around to try help figure out why dragons are unexplainably dying.

This book is an exciting read filled with heart. I loved that the next book is in the works for next autumn. But in the meantime I hope to be able to share my love of this series with otherbreaders, young and old alike.

4.5 stars

I'll be honest, when I read Impossible Creatures, I enjoyed it, but I didn't really get the hype around it. It was a good read but I felt it was nothing new. So I dithered over whether to read this sequel or not but I'm glad I did.

First things first, there's a map, that's it, five stars.

I felt this was far better than the first one. It had what I expected from a fantasy land but Katherine has filled it with such an array of magical creatures that it feels fresh. I felt towards this one the way I think people felt about the first.

I admit, I remember very little from the first one because it's been so long since I read it, and so was worried I'd be lost, but whilst she doesn't go over the previous book, somehow it didn't matter, I was just absorbed in the story on its own merit, rather than just as a sequel.

It's dark, let's not beat around the bush here. I won't spoil it but it does have some dark, difficult moments that wouldn't be out of place in an adult book let alone one for children.

The dragon Jacques is my favourite character. Due to my bad memory, I don't really remember him all that much, but from the very first page he's in, he steals it. A wisecracking, literal, unabashed dragon who is just fabulous.

In generally I would say it's paced well, but there were moments that felt drawn out and some that didn't get enough focus and I wanted more depth from.

It is full of action but isn't overwhelming, and it's quick to read - I managed it in a little less than a day.

I'm glad I did for go for the sequel because I found it leaps and bounds better than the first one. For me anyway, I found it more magical, more fun, more emotional, more hopeful, and finally gave me the spark that I was expecting from the first one. And I'm already looking forward to book number three.

I adored Impossible Creatures so when I saw the chance to apply for an ARC through Netgalley I jumped at the chance. Thank you so much Bloomsbury and Netgalley for the ARC copy!

Katherine Rundell is a PHENOMENAL author. This may be a children's book but I devoured it! It was so good to be back in this world again! This is a book for all ages to enjoy. It felt so nostalgic and warm reading this. I also love the details in the book. All the illustrations and descriptions of the mythical creatures are fantastic and great for young readers.

The book is set in a place called the Archepelago (look how fabulous the map is!) At the beginning we meet Anya who is on the run from her traitorous uncle. She gains the help from Christopher who is going to become one of the guardians of the Archepelago.

Anya may be a young girl however she is determined, brave, loyal and incredibly compassionate as well as being a really strong female character. Its so good to see a female portrayed this way in a children's book.

This book has everything you could want in a fantasy book. Adventure, magic, mythical creatures, found family and epic battles.

Its fast paced and keeps you hooked from the start however it isnt rushed and the world building is fantastic. The book also illustrates how money and power can breed vengeance, greed and destruction among the world however it also shows that in the right hands, money and power can be used for good. I also adored the found family aspect!

The ending was so good and heartwarming. It's definitely another book I won't be forgetting any time soon. Its for sure a classic in the making.

4.25 stars

I liked this book far better than the first one of the series! The author seems to trust her readers more, because I found the prose beautiful and often insightful (which is what I want to see in a children’s book!) without being preachy or overly pretentious.

The plot wasn’t anything groundbreaking, but it kept me interested and never lagged. We got to meet plenty of new creatures - my favorite part about this series. The characters are fun and we get a good mix of new and old, though I do hope to see more character growth in future books.

I don’t know if this is a cultural difference (author is British, I’m American) or what, but this series has some pretty dark moments for a children’s book?? Nothing overly explicit or troubling for younger readers, but I don’t remember this kind of tone in my books growing up.

My biggest complaint is an odd one… I wish the author would stop including a chapter opener revolving around eating snot lmao. What a weird thing to include twice! And the characters are far too old for that…

Anyway, very happy with this book overall. I was considering not continuing the series after how the first one ended, but I’m glad I gave it a second chance.

I discovered the first book with my daughter who was 8 at the time, a book we read together at the same time, taking a chapter each and it was nothing short of a joy. A pleasure I wished for again, and outside of Harry Potter, I have been unable to engage her to do so until now.

With the same wonderfully imaginative storytelling, Katherine Rundell has again captured my now 9 year olds heart, and mine with the returning characters. With so much happiness as she discovered Ratwin again, we sped through this 2nd book which in itself has a much faster pace and feel.

Frantic, fun, full of emotion, this is what reading is all about. Perfect Fantasy for the young, and not so young,

Captivating, heart felt and heart racing. Another triumph from Russell, can't wait for the next in the series.

It was lovely to return to the archipelago, with its sumptuous descriptions and an array of mystical and magical creatures. Christopher is woken by flame-challenged but bursting with personality, Jacques, the miniature dragon, with an urgent message to return to the archipelago because the dragons are dying. Christopher, as heir-to-the-protector (his grandfather is the current one) immediately leaves his home in London and dashes off to Scotland to enter the portal near his grandfather’s home. Anya, granddaughter to the titular king, is on the run from the villain who not only killed the king but framed Anya’s father for the murder. Teaming up, the only question is which problem Christopher and Anya should tackle first – save the dying dragons or rescue Anya’s father, facing execution for a crime he did not commit.
I really enjoyed being back in the archipelago and once again I particularly loved the animals, the dragons, the sphinx, the gaganas… Jacques is such a fun character. While it’s devastating discovering the attacks on the dragons, I absolutely loved the flock of gaganas, birds who comfort Anya in her distress, protect her, and would die for her.
There’s a strong message about revenge at the end of the story but the main theme of the book I would say is about love. In particular, the love of Anya for her father, the love between her and her beloved gaganas, the love between Irian and Nighthand the berserker who can’t love and remain a berserker.
The story is also about loyalty, greed, friendship, courage and fear, all encased in immersive prose and a fascinating world. I highly recommend you wallow in the delightful (but not safe) world of The Poisoned King.

A huge thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this EARC!

Katherine Rundell's The Poisoned King is a superb sequel to Impossible Creatures!
As previously more detailed world building in this return to Archipelago, and yet more fascinating creatures.
An easy, brilliant read. 😊

Since I happened on Katherine Rundell’s Impossible Creatures in 2023 I have been waiting for the sequel; hoping it would live up to the first instalment.

Katherine Rundell did a masterful world building and this continues in The Poisoned King.

Christopher Forester is summoned back to the Archipelago by the diminutive, but somewhat obnoxious Jacques, the dragon. Dragons are dying out and Christopher needs to find out why and stop it if he can.

We are also introduced to new characters - Anya and her gaganas. Anya is a princess whose grandfather has been poisoned and her father accused of the murder. There’s an evil uncle too…

The two arms of the story take a little while to come together but this enables us to get to know the new characters a little.

Once together the characters join forces, using knowledge, skill and guile to try and overcome the challenges they face.
Clearly this is a book aimed at a younger audience but it is also a nice read for those of us who enjoy fantasy with well crafted worlds and thought out characters.

I’m not a fan of comparing authors to one another; Tolkien, Rowling, Pratchett and Pullman are all giants in the fantasy field. Each have their respective place in history and literature. Katherine Rundell is clearly in the same bracket, with her own style and voice.

This is another great book for young (and old) - an adventure full of magic, fantasy and Impossible Creatures and one that you can't put down until the final pages.

My only criticisms are that the pace towards the end seems too fast and some of Anya’s character features are a little formulaic. Maybe it’s because I’m older and these things would not be an issue for younger readers?

Still, very highly recommended.

Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy. Look forward to the finished, published, item with the artwork.

The Poisoned King - Katherine Rundell due for publication 11 Sept 2025

Here we find Christopher and Jacques off to the Archipelago again on their adventures this time to find out why the dragons are dying. At the same time Princess Anya has her own troubles with an evil Uncle wanting to take over her throne. Both stories overlap with the children joining forces to overcome the challenges they face. Full of strange and delightful fantastic creatures and old friends Nighthand and Irian along to help.

A fast paced book and a worthy successor to the first one. The chat between the creatures is adorably funny at times and I had to laugh out loud when Christopher woke up to his tiny dragon chewing on his face.

Not a difficult read especially with the short chapters.

As with the first book Katherine Rundell weaves her fictional fantasy story with powerful messages about power, corruption, and good triumphing over evil.

Thanks to NetGalley for a pre publication copy.

I read this as an eARC, thank you Netgalley and the author and I'm voluntarily reviewing this book.

Christopher, the future Guardian, is awoken by a dragon. The urgency is clear and he travels back once more into the Archipelago to answer the call for his help. Meeting old friends as soon as he has crossed he begins the quest but is very quickly detouring to help save a girl who needs his help. Enter Anya. It quickly becomes clear that both of their quests are interlinked and so an alliance and friendship begins.

I loved the fierce, brave and determined character that is Anya. She was well written and fit into the story perfectly. The familiar friends of Irian and Nighthand were seamlessly blended into the story and gave it depth and continuation of the world building. Christopher and his affinity with beasts carry the story along as they pursue their quest and find help in unlikely places.

I thought the storyline was interesting, it drew me in quickly and I was flicking through the pages watching it all develop.

I really enjoy this world and all the impossible creatures in it. For anyone who wants more details there is the bestiary at the end of the book, which gives images and details of each of the fantastic creatures.

I'm excited to hear that there are more books to come and look forward to the next installment

A excellent sequel to Impossible Creatures with Anya proving to be just as captivating a heroine as Mal. I love the way the creatures have such individual personalities making them instantly recognisable in the story with my personal favourite being Jacques, the tiny dragon but there are so many more who are almost as fascinating. Wit and humour run through the book but there's a strong underlying moral lesson about the corruption wealth can bring. There's danger, bravery, excitement and everything a child could possibly wish for in a story (and many an adult too). It could be read as a stand-alone but I think having read the first in the series gave an added dimension.

I’ve slowly consumed this over a few weeks because it’s so epic, and I really savoured it. Dragons, mythical creatures, regicide, poison and many adventures galore. This is such a rich world with so much happening. I loved the characters and it was so lovely to be surrounded by so many familiar faces! Katherine Rundell just gets storytelling!

Huge thanks to Bloomsbury Publishing for the gifted ARC of the second instalment in the Impossible Creatures series.

Sequels are always risky—especially when the first book is a huge success. Too often the magic fades, the story weakens, or the rush to publish overshadows the writing. But not here. Katherine Rundell took her time, researched deeply, and once again brought this extraordinary world to life with breathtaking imagination.

The Poisoned King is as dazzling as book one—rich, moving, and utterly spellbinding. Though written as a children’s series, it reaches far beyond that. It’s a book for anyone who wants to feel like a child again—safe, loved, and wrapped in the warmth of magic, even when the world feels dark.

Rundell’s writing is masterful, her universe vivid and astonishing. The emotions soar, the wonder never falters. This isn’t just a good sequel—it’s storytelling perfection.

I didn’t doubt Katherine Rundell would deliver in The Poisoned King however I was intrigued to see how the sequel would compare to its predecessor. I was stunned. What a book. The prose, the wit, the suspense, the characters! I savoured each page, and as I neared the end, longed for more.

I am a huge fan of Katherine Rundell. I love the way she weaves words together- she really is a master writer! Just beautiful prose, and a story full of heart, hope and adventure. I would recommend reading the first story first, as this is the second in the sequence and picks up many of the same characters.
This time Christopher is summoned by Jacques to return to the archipelago, where dragons are in danger and a princess flees for her life.

I think this was a beautiful expansion of the world of the Archipelago! I actually love that, this time, we shifted focus from Christopher to our new heroine, Anya. And what a heroine she is, even at only 12-13 years old or so (based on one line saying that I’m 5-6 years she’ll be 18). I loved the new creatures, new adventures, return of old favorite characters. It was still a little slow to start. It only really picked up around the 40% mark but it’s short, so once it gets going it really really picks up. Will be picking up a physical copy!

This is a delightful story, I have not read the first book and will make sure I do so. Lots of creatures, adventure, potions and poisons. A great story and a great read.

I /adored/ this!! Impossible Creatures became one of my favourite reads of all time when I first read it, so my expectations for the sequel were high! The Poisoned King absolutely met them- such an engaging read with lovable characters and an ever growing cast of wonderful magical creatures!

When a first book is so well loved the introduction of a new main character is sometimes hard to pull off I think, but I love Anya so much. I was so emotionally invested in her journey- I felt her pain and I was proud of her growth.

And the ‘impossible creatures’ themselves! The magical creatures in these books are so well developed, feel so real, feel like full characters. They jump off the page and feel so real and vivid. An absolute joy.

Also, Jacques is one of my favourite characters of all time possibly. What an icon. Made me laugh out loud multiple times. Love that tiny, majestic dragon friend!!!

Overall, this is a wonderful follow up to the first book that I’m sure will be well received by both children and adults alike. Can’t wait for the next adventure!

Thank you so much to Bloomsbury Children’s Books and NetGalley for the ARC!

What a great sequel! I loved every page! It is wonderful to see the story continue in such an interesting way!

Can I give this 10 stars please?
What a great sequel The Poisoned King is. I loved Impossible Creatures and this is even better.
Back we go to the Archipeligo with Christopher who is once again on a mission to save dragons before it is too late. On the way he encounters Anya who has a few problems of her own. Together, with the help of several magical creatures, they embark on strange adventures that take them further into the Archipelago but time is running out.
Full of magic, mystery and enchantment there is none stop excitement throughout the book. It is definitely for reading just one more chapter under the bedclothes at night. Unputdownable is the best word to use. I cannot wait for the next one.

A great return to The Archipelago!

Upon being summoned by Jacques, Christopher returns to The Archipelago for a new adventure.

Despite Mal's (obvious) absence in this book, the addition of Anya plays well against Christopher's character. The missions of the two protagonists are engaging and well-written. The glossary of the creatures found in the stories is helpful to the reader, especially when coming across a beast they have not before heard of.

I'll be buying a physical copy of this for my classroom when it is released.

These books are such a phenomenal introduction to epic fantasy for children. I read this with my kids over the span of two weeks and my middle grade reader was obsessed! He was a little hesitant following the heartbreaking ending of the first book but the ending of this one was much more fulfilling for him. He enjoyed the new creatures most of all. (Of course)

Personally, I very much enjoy this author’s world building and the ways we got to experience the characters growth throughout their adventures. Anya’s character undergoes some important changes and I really appreciate where she stands by the end of this novel. Gotta love a strong FMC.
It was such a great feeling to able to enjoy this world filled with magic, fast-paced adventure, passion, wit, and wonderfully vivid imagery with my kids. Thank you for the opportunity.

The Poisoned King is the second installment of Katherine Rundell's Impossible Creatures series.
The first book, released in 2024, was capitivating. It is not often I reread a book but this one has
been taken from the shelf a number of times. Christopher, a kind and empathetic boy who has a
deep connection with animals, becomes friends with Mal, a headstrong, sharp witted girl.
Collecting a band of courageous misfits as they go, they must save the Archipelego and the host
of magical and mythical creatures that call it home. Throughout the first book, the reader is
taken on a fast paced adventure, travelling across the archipelego, and they experience, through
the complex characters and their relationships, joy, darkness, anticipation, sadness and hope.
When a book is so powerful, it can be a difficult task to write a sequel. Children do not suffer
fools gladly, and communicate quitely clearly where their loyalties lie when it comes to their
literature. They do not tend to stick with a book if it is not providing them with what they seek -
adventure, acknowledgement, respect. Rundell is an author who knows children well. If you
ever have the pleasure of hearing her speak, you may find, as I did, that she has an ability to pull
you right back to your childhood as though you have been caught up in the words she casts like
spells! It is not nostalgia that Rundell plays on, but the desire we all have for adventure and
hope.
The Poisoned King returns us, and Christopher, to the Archipelego. The book begins with our
favourite jaculus dragon and a warning. Princess Anya, another child for whom animals are at
least as important as humans, joins the fray. Raised on philosophy and mathematics and
ancient gagana songs, she knows her mind and has a thirst for justice, a common theme in
Rundells writing.
"The great dragons are dying, in their dozens. Nobody knows why."
"Elsewhere in the castle, a man was being murdered."
The Poisoned King is ultimately an ode to friendship and loyalty. There is something in the way
that Rundell writes adults and children and the relationships they build. You can tell that she
has not ever fully left beind the adventure and mystery of childhood and for that reason she is
able to blend adults and children without creating an imposing adult voice in the books, which,
in the hands of a less deft writer, may feel clunky. Rundell's respect for children and childhood
is evident in the quality of writing and the breadth of vocabulary she uses. Nothing frustrates me
more in a childrens book than an author who speaks down to their audience. This is not
something one would ever have to worry about with Rundell. It is not surprising that she has
been compared to Tolkien and Pullman.
Impossible Creatures - The Poisoned King is out on September 11th in all good bookshops. I
recommend your local independent bookshop, or if you prefer, the local library. Thank you to
@NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy before my preorder arrives

THE POISONED KING is another classic-feeling adventure tale. We have an evil uncle, a desperate quest, and some potion making. There are new lands to explore in the archipelago but the tone here is more one of exploring a place that's somewhat known than one that is completely new. It helps that there are familiar faces and creatures returning, springboards for the forays into the newer parts.

IMPOSSIBLE CREATURES wrapped up feeling more like a standalone with potential for companion novels and THE POISONED KING certainly feels like that. This is a new adventure with a new villain. Several of the cast of IMPOSSIBLE CREATURES return but the lead is a new character. Plus, once again, the story wraps up at the end without any dangling plot threads and the villain dealt with.

While Christopher is present in this book (and the first few chapters are from his perspective), Anya is the main character. The rest of the book follows her perspective and her emotional journey around revenge and forgiveness. I found it interesting to see someone else's view on this world and she certainly has the most emotionally at stake here. It was another thing that made this book feel like a companion rather than a sequel.

I suspect this trend will continue with the next instalment, though I would like to see more Christopher, particularly as the end hints at a new relationship starting (or being rekindled) for him!

I had been looking forward to reading 'The Poisoned King' since I finished the first book, and Katherine Rundell did not disappoint. This book had me laughing, crying, constantly on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next. I never wanted to leave this amazing world Rundell has created!

In this delightful sequel to middle grade hit Impossible Creatures, Christopher returns to the Archipelago, this time to help Anya, a princess at the centre of a dastardly plot.

This book has the same imagination and humour as the previous one. We are introduced to new creatures and meet up again with old friends.

A recommended read for fans of imaginative middle grade fantasy.

Thank you to Netgalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Having not read the first book it took me a while to get into the language of the book and grasp the storylines. Once I did I was hooked as I have been with all of the books by Katherine Rundell.

Anya is a princess who would much rather be living free in the forest with her beloved father, her birds and the other woodland creatures than in the palace.

When events take a tragic turn and she is forcibly parted from her father she vows to change this.

Christopher is called upon to help save the dragons and joins forces with Anya in a quests. Another excellent book and I now need to read part one

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC

The attention to detail in the series is amazing! Love the added Guardians Bestiary at the end which just brings the book to life even more.
Christopher is such a hero and Anya was just as amazing as Mal from the first book.
I love the friendships, the world building the animals the characters, everything. This is just a wonderful series which is true escapism.

After the first book of the series I knew this would be incredible and the children are busy reading it a second time themselves. Katherine Rundell is a great author who has the talent to inspire young and old alike to read. We have already ordered a copy for our carefully curated family bookshelf.

Huge thank you to the publishers for my copie .

What totally wonderful incredible adventure this book is .I felt totally captivated lost in this amazing world for a while .

I can't say I didn't like anything I loved the characters , the plot , being in this world helped my forget real life for a while .

Katherine writing is wonderful.

5 adventurous stars

I really enjoyed The Poisoned King and found myself preferring it to the first book in the Impossible Creatures series. This instalment is fast-paced, with a storyline that flows smoothly and keeps the reader engaged throughout.

The story continues to follow Christopher, Mal and their companions as they face new dangers and challenges in a richly imagined world where magical creatures are very much alive. Rundell builds on the foundations of the first book, raising the stakes while weaving in adventure, loyalty, and the complexities of friendship. Without giving away any spoilers, the book takes readers deeper into the Archipelago, introducing fascinating new elements of its history and politics that add real depth to the plot.

Although I don’t usually read fantasy, I had heard such great things about this series that I picked up the first book before diving into this one. I found myself enjoying The Poisoned King much more - partly because I already knew the characters and settings, which helped me follow and appreciate the story on a deeper level. While I think this book could be read on its own, readers would miss out on some of the important backstory and character development from Impossible Creatures.

I would definitely recommend this series to children, as well as to fantasy readers of all ages. It’s an exciting, imaginative adventure that balances action with heart. I’m very much looking forward to seeing where Katherine Rundell takes the story next.

Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc (UK & ANZ), Bloomsbury Children’s Books, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy and the opportunity to review this book.

My 10 year old daughters review;

I absolutely loved this book! It picked up right where the first one left off, and it was so much more intense. The first book was about escaping, but this one is all about confronting your fears.

My favourite character was Anya. She’s an adventurer at heart, always climbing and exploring. She’s also a bit of a daredevil and very brave!

My Review;
An absolute masterclass in middle grade fiction. The prose is exceptional, the characters are beautifully drawn (I’m in love with Jacques) and this book gives ALL the feels.

With dragons, unicorns, mermaids and a myriad of legendary creatures, this is a great adventure story for older children!

I haven't yet read the first book in the series, but it was easy to get into the story right away. When Princess Anya's father is accused of a terrible crime, she is determined to do whatever she can to prove his innocence. She meets Christopher, who is on his own mission, and they promise to help each other. But Anya is consumed by dark thoughts of revenge, which could destroy her future.

Full of action, tense moments, and heartfelt decisions, this book is perfect for older children. Recommended!

It is rare for me to read a Netgalley arc so quickly! I enjoyed Impossible Creatures, but I didn’t really get the hype around it. I enjoyed it enough to be curious about reading the second in the series and I am so happy that I was able to review an arc on Netgalley. I loved this so much I have ordered a signed special edition.

Christopher is awoken by a miniature dragon who tells him that he must return to the Archipelago and save the dragons. Anya, Princess of the Archipelago is in danger. Her grandfather has been poisoned and her father suspected of his murder. She knows otherwise and that she will be killed next. Fleeing for her life, she is rescued by Christopher and a Sphinx. How can they save the dragons and Anya’s father?

This book pulled me in from the start. I love a book which starts with A Warning! It was all the things that I had hoped for in the first book and a magnificent adventure that I think will be a future classic. Full of fabulous descriptions and the most beautiful creatures - Rundell has an incredible inventive imagination which she harnesses so powerfully in her writing. This had echos of Narnia, references to Shakespeare, the kind of wisdom that you want to put on magnets on your fridge. Children are going to love the humour including fart and poop jokes! I loved the environmental themes wrapped up in the story - poisoned waters, species dying out, the threat to the Archipelago.

The book is populated with the most wonderful characters. Anja and Christopher provide the kind of role models parents will adore. This is a book which will be loved by parents and children alike. I loved it.

Huge thanks to Bloomsbury and to Netgalley for my Arc.

I loved being back in the world of the Archipelago with the characters we came to know and love in the first book as well as the addition of new characters. I continue to love the world building in this series and the magical creatures that we are introduced too. The friendships and found family element is beautifully written and you can’t help but fall in love with all the characters. The plot was fast paced and easy to follow and the side quests kept you guessing. I’m looking forward to the next book.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for a copy of this arc.

The Poisoned King is the second in the Impossible Creatures series by Katherine Rundell and sees Christopher return to the magical Archipelago, called there to help save the dragons which are mysteriously dying out. On his return he meets Anya, a princess native to the Archipelago, who is trying to find out who murdered her grandfather and framed her father for the crime. The two team up to solve both mysteries, helped by a sphinx and a host of familiar faces. Christopher, the hero from the first book, is still an important figure but Anya is the main character in this one and both are wonderful.

I loved the first book in the series and was excited to be given the chance to read the sequel, and I’m even happier to say that it doesn’t disappoint at all. Katherine Rundell has a beautiful writing style and the action is fast paced and well plotted, with references from Hamlet to a host of legendary creatures. These books are written in a style that would fit in with the classics of children’s literature through the ages, set in a world that feels recognisable but magical, and I’m sure will be read by children for many years to come. There are strong messages of friendship, courage in the face of danger, resilience, and not letting anger and the need for revenge overcome you, but the tone is never lecturing, only inspiring for children in the manner of J R R Tolkien or C S Lewis (the stories remind me especially of Narnia).

There are beautiful illustrations throughout the book and a glossary of all the magical creatures to be found, really helping to create a whole magical world. This is a wonderful book for children, highly recommended and I’m already looking forward to the third.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review. This review has been posted to Goodreads and Waterstones and will be added to Amazon on publication day.

What a fantastic book! A joy to read. The previous book in the title wrapped things up very nicely and I wasn't sure what direction this could be taken in that wouldn't feel drawn out, but I shouldn't have worried. Rundell has done it again! We are introduced to a brand new character, Anya, whom the reader becomes loyal and fond of almost immediately. Like the first book, the tale is packed with creatures and gloriously grand and imaginative adventures, while the vocabulary is pitched perfectly for middle grade readers or for reading with a parent - accessible but with the occasional advanced word sprinkled in. It will both delight and challenge little readers in the best way. As a bookseller, I cannot wait to sell this to my customers.

Just as utterly enchanting and breathtaking as the first book. Katherine Rundell is an author as mythical as the creatures she writes of.

A fantastic(al) sequel!

Sequels are a tricky beast, but "The Poisoned King" by Katherine Rundell was just as brilliant as the first book in this series, "Impossible Creatures".

When Christopher unexpectedly returns to the Archipelago, the secret islands teeming with magic and mythical creatures, he must help a princess hungry for justice while uncovering who or what is harming the most powerful of creatures, the dragons.

Rundell has created a magnificent world, so vivid, surely it must really exist! Her use of language is beautiful, the plot is exciting, and I loved the new main character Anya, a girl who is wild yet quietly observant, filled with love and revenge, afraid for her father yet ultimately fearless.

If you haven't read the first book yet - this is your reminder to do so!

A great addition to the series, full of the same adventurous spirit and mystical animals, the same bravery and friendship despite the ending to the first book…however there was something about this one that didn’t quite match up to the first book for me.

I loved the way the narratives split and then rejoined when you least expected it. Rundell here clearly knows how to create an intriguing plot and build suspense. This was a great summer read and I’m sure it’ll be another success for the younger age groups!

Thanks to NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Katherine Rundell is a great storyteller and her voice is very distinct, you know when you're reading one of her books. I really appreciate her economy of words and worldbuilding, I think she does a great job at giving just enough to the reader to showcase her lush world but at the same time doesn't overwhelm with information. And what a brilliant world she's created in this series. The creatures and imagery we come across are definitely strong points in this book.
The Poisoned Kind takes Christopher and us back to the Archipelago, as characters, old and new, embark on saving the dragon population that seems to be diminishing fast and mysteriously. The narrative flows effortlessly and the short chapters invite us to keep going (just one more chapter, just one more!), facilitating in keeping the pace of the story very well. I can see those who enjoyed the first installment to carry that enthusiasm over with this one.
For those who loved Impossible Creatures, you will not be disappointed. Personally, it's always a pleasure to read one of Katherine's stories. A big thank you to Katherine, Bloomsbury and NetGalley for my review copy, all opinions are my own.

Having read the first Impossible Creatures book, I couldn’t wait to read this. The promise of following Christopher on another adventure and finding out how his experiences in the last book have affected him was tantalising.
I am very pleased to report that Katherine Rundell’s The Poisoned King did not disappoint. The story is well paced and the Archipelago, its creatures and its people are as richly detailed and developed as ever.
We begin with Christopher finding himself summoned back to the Archipelago - told by his diminutive dragon friend Jacques that he is the only person who can save the dying dragons. Sneaking back to the magical islands, Christopher finds he has an additional mission to complete - he must once again rescue a child in danger but this time she is a princess.
Whilst Christopher has been getting his instructions from Naravirala the Sphinx, Arya Argen has suffered a great shock as a most heinous crime committed in the palace threatens to change her life forever. She finds her own life is at risk and just when it appears there is no hope, a young hero arrives and the adventure really begins.
The opening of the story is magnificent and I found myself totally invested in Arya’s story. It was lovely to have Christopher back and then to find other familiar characters from the first book reappear. I obviously won’t spoil the story but the plot is tight, well thought out, paced to,perfection and offers a satisfying end.
I for one cannot wait for more in this series … I really want to know what happens next to our young Guardian Christopher and what adventures he will embark upon in the future!

Thank you NetGalley for letting me review this remarkable sequel

In this sequel of the Impossible Creatures series, we follow Christopher as he goes back to the Archipelago to help Jacques save the dragons.
Desperate need of their help also, they find Anya, the Princess of Dousha, she is in need of help as this turns out to be the very same mission

This is a fantastic childrens book and so recommeded

Due for publication 11 September 2025
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It feels like forever ago since we were all gifted the first installment in this modern-fairy tale saga and I was so excited to be granted an early preview, so an enormous thank you to both Katherine Rundell herself, as well as the teams at Bloomsbury Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest review.

In a word? Perfection. Every single prediction I had for this sequel was thrown out the window the second I picked it up and I am so glad – Rundell has gone off the beaten path and created an almost entirely new cast of characters for us to get to know, with the exception of a few of our favourite returning faces.

We travel back to the Archipelago, not wasting a breath as the book opens to Christopher bein summoned to aid Jacques; the dragons are dying. Nobody knows why, but as Guardian – Christopher needs to step in, before it’s too late.

From here we are taken on a non-stop, roller-coaster ride of a tale, weaving Rundell’s expert storytelling skills with the mysterious and mythological creatures we are all coming to know and love. I savoured this new book for as long as I could, but also couldn’t read it fast enough… This is the magic Rundell is bringing to the children’s literature game. Stories that beg to be shared, re-told and treasured, but with the need to ingest it in one sitting. There is no middle ground!

A name synonymous with expertly crafted stories and with something for children and adults alike, Rundell will be remembered as one of the literary greats, with books that are a rite of passage for readers of every age. Sitting alongside storytelling titans such as Pullman, Lewis, Steadman and the Carrolls (both Lewis and Emma!), I am always first in-line to order the new book by Katherine Rundell.

Now, to wait patiently for book 3...

Katherine Rundell stories always feel like you are giving yourself a treat by reading them and I think this is my favourite yet - dragons, phoenixes, harpies and goodness knows how many other mystical creatures are here ......and did I mention the dragons?! This sequel to Impossible Creatures is a thrilling return to the Archipelago. Dragons are dying from poison, a royal murder leaves the wrong man accused, and it’s up to Christopher and Princess Anya to uncover the truth. Rundell’s writing is as sharp and lyrical as ever, full of humour, danger, and memorable creatures.
I really enjoyed the fast pace, clever twists, and vivid world-building. The villain is satisfyingly wicked, and the moral questions give plenty to think about, there's a strong theme of friendship and working together and I just couldn't put it down.

This must be one of the best, if not THE best children's book series ever. Remember that feeling when you first read the Narnia books and you went through the wardrobe door with Lucy? As an adult I was transported back to that pure sense of magic and wonder in a way I haven't been since a child. What a wonderful feeling !

You don't have to have read Impossible Creatures first , although I would recommend it. Christopher from the previous book is awoken by the grumpy jaculus ,Jacques (a jaculus is a miniature dragon) Something is happening to the dragons and other creatures on the Archipelago and his help is needed.

Meanwhile we meet a daring and adventurous princess in waiting, Anya, She is tired of mastering court protocol and the right sort of smile for every occasion. - much light hearted humour here. However things turn darker when her grandfather is poisoned and her father is imprisoned. Rundell acknowledged in a Booksellers Meeting that she pays homage to Hamlet. Anya's bird companion , Gallia has raised her on stories
"about castles, and dragons, and revenge; The things of which great stories are made"

The alliance that forms between the two starts with mistrust and uneasiness. However through their brave actions to help each other- with the help of various "impossible creatures" like a sphinx they learn to trust each other in order to fulfil both their quests. There's a good mixture of characters from the previous book like Nighthand and Irian and new characters that you take to your heart.


I don't want to give any more plot details and spoilers pre- publication, but this is an absolutely amazing book and the best book I have read this year (and I read both children's AND adults) The writing style is flowing, humorous and Rundell can put into words things you've thought but never managed to articulate.

It's a book about daring and courage- in the best adventure and heroic fantasy tradition. I said in my review of Impossible Creatures “Completely amazing. Without doubt the best children's book in years- a landmark publication.” and this series continues that..

This has to be one of the best and most magical series for children that takes it place alongside Narnia, The Dark is Rising, His Dark Materials, Tolkien and Narnia (It is much better written than Harry Potter)

The Poisoned King sees a breath-taking and utterly magical return to the Archipelago in the second book in the Impossible Creatures pentalogy. This has undoubtedly been one of my most anticipated books of the year – and it was absolutely worth the wait!

Christopher Forrester has returned to London to live with his father after his first incredible adventure crossing into the magical world of the Archipelago. But the Archipelago is not finished with Christopher so it is that he finds himself being woken by a tiny dragon chewing on his face. Jacques may be tiny in stature but he is mighty in heart, and has made the journey through the waybetween to summon Christopher back to the Archipelago as the great dragons are in need of his help. Willingly agreeing to return, Christopher is welcomed by a sphinx who tells him of a young girl who is in great danger, a girl connected to both Christopher and the dragons, and someone they need to find …

A young girl, Princess Anya, is racing across the rooftop of her grandfather, the King’s, castle to save an egg from being taken by those who have killed the unhatched chick’s mother. And as she rejoices in the hatching of that young chick, she is not to know that her life is about to be torn apart … and what she becomes will be born of fury and tempered with love.

When Anya finds herself in the greatest danger and in need of rescue, a sphinx with a boy on his back lands beside her. And so, Anya and Christopher’s lives become entwined as they find themselves on a perilous journey to uncover the truth behind the deaths of the great dragons and reveal the heinous crimes of a would-be despot whose weapon of choice is poison. Can they enter the dragons’ lair to discover what has happened to these mighty creatures who should be invincible? Will they find a way to reveal a tyrant’s cruel plot before all hope is lost?

I only had to read the first page to be immediately drawn back into the world of Impossible Creatures – and I was completely hooked as I returned with Christopher to the Archipelago to meet both old and new friends. Be prepared to meet some creatures of myth – some friend and some foe – sphinx, manticore, winged unicorns and firebirds – and many others mentioned in The Guardian’s Bestiary included at the end of the book. I found the writing absolutely exquisite, profound in its simplicity, with powerful and much-needed messages for our time, captured within a stunning, epic fantasy adventure.

As danger increases and the taint of treachery reveals its dark machinations, I found this a story that was impossible to put down, encouraged by the short chapters, often with cliff-hanger endings, but I also found it impossible to put down because of heart-warming friendships, of moments of joy, connection, laughter and love that brought hope amidst the darkness. This is a book that will sing to the hearts of children, make them feel both fierce and brave, and possibly remind adults that there is always goodness and hope amongst the darkness. Which is exactly why I read middle-grade books which I firmly believe are for readers of any age.

Christopher and Anya are two incredible children, brought together on a quest to save others and, in doing so, they form a wonderful bond of friendship and trust. There is a confidence and maturity in Christopher as he connects with the creatures of the Archipelago and feels the responsibility of protecting these magical islands. And, oh my, what can I say about Anya? She loves deeply, holds friendships dear, and is determined to put right the injustices she discovers, despite the danger and risk that this brings. She has a courageous heart and chooses to be the master of her own fate – and I adored her for it!

And, after that ending, I absolutely cannot wait to enter the Archipelago again and discover what is next for this magical place with its mythical creatures and wonderful protectors.

I will finish by saying that I loved the title, The Poisoned King, with its twofold meaning – but I will let readers discover this for themselves!

An unmissable return to the Archipelago to join a dangerous quest for justice and truth with two unforgettable, courageous children and their impossible creatures.

What a fantastic return to the Archipelago in The Poisoned King
A great array of new characters and return of old allowed this book to remain close to the first, but fresh enough to not feel like a regurgitated story.
The second to last chapter had me choking - Mal Arvorian captured my heart in Impossible Creatures and I thought this scene was so beautifully written.

I really enjoyed reading this and look forward to the next!

I was so thrilled to return to the Archipelago after reading Impossible Creatures and being drawn into the mystery and fantastical world that Katherine Rundell had created. I adored the first book in the series learning about Mal and Christopher - two young kids searching for the Immortal.

In The Poisoned King we return with Christopher as he is asked to return to the hidden world to help the dragons which are dying. When he returns he is helped by a Sphinx with a favour to ask, there is a girl who needs his help...

From there you will be drawn into another wonderful story of good vs evil, mild peril at every turn and of course a whole new host of exotic and imaginative creatures to encounter and not all of them are friendly! I loved the new characters we were introduced to - a Royal family which lent the drama and tension for this novel's plot and provides the title inspiration and reminded me of historical fiction novels where corruption and politics overshadow relationships. Fans of the series will be delighted to discover that Nighthand and Irian are back and better than ever, they are still continuing in their roles as guardians of the Archipelago and lead the charge into this action packed adventure.

My only criticism would be it wasn't long enough, I wanted more and now am impatiently waiting for book 3 to see what happens next!

The Poisoned King is even more exciting than Impossible Creatures! From the very first page I was hooked — there are poisoned dragons, daring escapes, and amazing new creatures I’d never even imagined. Christopher’s bravery and Anya’s determination make them such a great team, and I loved following their adventure. The world feels magical and full of surprises, and the story kept me turning the pages late into the night. Katherine Rundell has written a truly unforgettable sequel — thrilling, magical, and absolutely unputdownable!

4.5 stars

I really enjoyed the first book, even being well into my 30s, and it was something I could share with my kids. So when I was able to get an early copy of book 2 I was so excited!

It did not disappoint and I will definitely be purchasing a physical copy for myself and the kids.

I did not read the first book, but this one is a story of magic and dragons. Christopher is woken by a miniature dragon and told his help is needed he must return to the Archipelago. Here he is met by a sphinx who asks if he help a girl in danger. Of course Christopher is happy to help.
This is a wonderful book and I am sure will be enjoyed by people of all ages, especially if you like similar book types.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.

Another wonderful tale from the Archipelago. This time Christopher is called back because something is killing the dragons. At the same time a young princess from one of the islands, Anya, is fleeing for her life after her father is falsely imprisoned for murdering the King. Could it be that the two are linked? They join forces and along the way meet up with many favourite characters from the first book. I loved the first book from the moment I read a sampler from Bloomsbury and this second is just as wonderful. The characters really leap off of the page. I love the way that Rundell writes the creatures. Each has its own voice; some are wise, some are funny, some scary and all totally believable. My only gripe is that it was over too soon and now I have to wait a whole year for the next one!

The Poison King is a strong and satisfying follow-up in Katherine Rundell’s series. As the second book, it not only continues the momentum of the first but also deepens the world and characters I’d grown attached to.
I really enjoyed revisiting familiar faces, and I found the new lead, Anya, just as captivating as Mal, the original heroine. The author does an excellent job of keeping both characters distinct yet equally engaging. The story is exciting and fast-paced, pulling me in from the first chapter and keeping me hooked right through to the end.
One of the aspects I especially appreciated was the role of the animals. Each creature, with its own unique traits, played a meaningful part in the story, which gave the book even more richness and depth. The touches of humour sprinkled throughout balanced the darker themes, while the moral lesson at the end tied everything together beautifully.
Overall, The Poison King is a thrilling and thoughtful read that fans of the first book will definitely enjoy. It left me eager to see where the series will go next.