For all the kids who like reading about magic, fantasy and dark forces, Jenny Nimmo’s latest book, Charlie Bone and the Red Knight is for them. The last, and the eighth book in the series, The Children of the Red King, is about the Bloors’ hunt for a misplaced box containing a hidden will. The will determines the true fate of the Red King’s offspring.

The Bloors want to find it first before Charlie Bone gets his hands on it. But Charlie is also facing the lord of the sea, who not only wants to drown Charlie’s parents, but also has to face the frightening swordsman from days gone by. So after all, the red knight can be the only saviour. And he is the one who can help Charlie and his friends to put an end to the evil magic.

The last book in the series is nothing short of suspense and drama. The Bloors are trying to raise the Sorcerer Harkin from the past. From the previous books in the series, we know how evil he is. Not only does he throw Billy in the dungeon, but also barks out commands in a cruel way. It is thrilling to read how the Bloors are unable to control the psychopath.

The battling scene was especially portrayed vividly as Paton got shot in the chest with an arrow. When I finished this book, it left me wondering if I were in a battle, what would I do? I am glad that Billy is now Charlie’s adoptive brother. He finally has a loving family.

With an exciting cover of the book, the inside of the book is equally thrilling. It has comedy, mystery and excitement, with well-developed characters that keep you hooked until the last page, although there was a little bit of violence and some unpleasant havoc that could have been avoided.

I will recommend this series as a prerequisite for all those who aspire to read the Harry Potter series next, and want to explore magic, good and evil, and the worldwide fascination for wizards.

Published in Dawn, Young World, January 28th, 2023