The Secret of the Blood-Red Key - David Farr

The Book of Stolen Dreams was one of my favourite reads two years ago (you can read my review here ) and I've been very excited about the prospect of a sequel ever since. 

Since the end of book 1, both Rachel and Robert have become heroes as life in Krasnia gets back to the way it should be; however, things at home aren't wonderful as their father is struggling to get used to life at home without their mother. One day after school, Rachel is stopped by a boy who seems to know all about the blood-red key, in fact he has his own.  He tells her that they are both keepers of the key and should use their keys wisely.  He gives her a calling card with a phone number on it and then leaves. She tells Robert as soon as she gets home but he brushes it off.  However, when Rachel discovers that a young girl has been smuggled into the Hinterland, Rachel determins to use her key to save her.  The journey is far from an easy one and the fate of Krasnia, Rachel and the girl hang in the balance.

As with The Book of Stolen Dreams, The Secret of the Blood-Red Key is an immersive, cinematic adventure that I simply couldn't put down.  The description transports you right back to Krasnia and the vivid images are once again painted in the reader's mind.  The world-building is once again spectacular and the time spent in the Hinterland is particularly special.  The beginning of the book skillfully recaps the events in book 1 which allows you to venture into the main plot seamlessly (I love when a sequel does this). 

Already invested in the characters, it was great to join them on their journey again, as well as meet some new ones.  Rachel's love for her family shines out of the book as does her bravery, and I love her as a character.

Publishing, 14/9, The Secret of The Blood-Red Key is a book that is fantastically unputdownable and utterly delicious.  Be prepared for a rollercoaster of a ride that will leave you with an incredible book hangover.