Ever since April began wearing an old earring she found in a flea market, she can tell what Baron, her dog, is feeling. She can feel and see things that no-one else in her little family can. When a stranger comes to the house and says she can help her learn more, April, perhaps foolishly, goes with her.

Strange creatures follow them and it soon becomes apparent that they are not safe. Meanwhile, Horace and Chloe are recovering from their attack on the stronghold of their enemy, the Mordin, in an attempt to rescue Chloe’s father. When they hear that a stranger, who also has magical talent like them, is coming their way, they wonder what the stranger’s motive is, why this person is coming and what the young friends need to do about it.

These are dangerous times and they’re not sure who they can trust. Then, when the stranger and her companions arrive, Chloe receives a shock that throws her world into chaos.

This is the long-awaited sequel to The Box and the Dragonfly, and Ted Sanders hasn’t disappointed us. The world in which Horace, Chloe and the others live is just as complex, convincing and quietly menacing as it was in the first book. We discover that having a magical ability doesn’t make life any easier. In some ways it makes things more difficult. There’s no quick, easy fix to life’s difficulties. Even the most gifted among us still need to rely on others, think things through and be brave. Bring on the third book!

Reviewed by Wendy Noble

Age Guide 12+