Slayer is the first book in an epic, action-packed new adventure from the creators of Beast Quest – perfect for kids aged 10+ who love Eragon and His Dark Materials.
Beastheart is set in a fantastical world run by a complex hierarchy of Beasts called the new-Kind, who have magical powers. Humans have become the oppressed underclass, but rebellion is brewing as enemies struggle for power, and the truth about the origins of the Kind could tip the balance forever…
Jonas, a young human, was blamed for the killing of his fellow villagers and thrown into a notorious prison. His only hope of release from jail is by using his tracking skills to find other criminals on the run, trading them in against his own sentence. But Jonas has a secret connection with a spirit creature, and in this dangerous world, such secrets have consequences.
Lana is a lizard-Kind, whose once aristocratic family has fallen into disgrace. Now she must use her special stone-working magic to support her loved ones. When her talents are noticed by the king, Lana seizes a chance to restore her family’s fortunes.
As Jonas’ quest continues he uncovers shocking secrets about the history of his world and finds himself caught up in a complex web of shifting alliances. Can he discover what’s really in his heart?
A.H. Blade is the author and creator of Beast Quest, which includes over 100 books in 20 different series, and even a video game! It’s a complex world of characters, magical creatures and more, with legions of fans. Blade has now written the first book in a new series called Beastheart, where we are introduced to Jonas, who becomes embroiled in the battle between the old-Kind and the new-Kind.
I absolutely love getting swept up in a new fantasy world and Slayer provided that perfect escape. The handy map and introduction, History of the Many Worlds, helps to establish the different characters and their “Kinds”. Blade is a master at fantasy world-building. You quickly feel immersed in Jonas’ quest to escape from confinement and get to the bottom of the secrets and lies that have been spreading about the new-Kinds’ ascent into power. Jonas’s courageous spirit and bravery really shine through here, making him a gripping protagonist. The division between classes of humans and “Kinds” in this world could also lead to discussions about prejudice and oppression.
For middle-grade readers looking for a new series to get stuck into, you’re in luck! The second book in the Beastheart series, Conjuror, is coming soon. I’m looking forward to seeing where Blade takes Jonas and Lana next.
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