Skandar and The Phantom Rider is a cookie-cutter chosen one fantasy, jam-packed with magical adventures and bravery, that would be perfect for children. Refreshing to see the main group of characters that have flaws and come across as not 100% likeable. Continuing on from book one, everyone knows Skandar is a spirit wielder but the island is starting to suffer, wild unicorns are being killed and guess where the blame is being placed. As well as fighting these building accusations, his sister is desperate for her own unicorn but what lengths will she go to?

I loved the first one and this is a great follow up! There's no denying the Harry Potter similarities, but Steadman does this magical/school/adventure genre really well and there's a good range of personalities and diversity in her writing. A fast-paced thriller!

I was very lucky to be granted a wish to preview this book on Netgalley. I bought the first book for my class and a few of my pupils read it and are eagerly awaiting this book. They will not be disappointed! This is an action-packed, thrilling adventure which deals really well with themes such as family, friendships (with humans and animals), bullying, animal cruelty, trust and bravery. There are also underlying messages that we are responsible for looking after our own environment and the potential dangers of not doing so. As you can see, plenty of potential for use in the classroom!

Wow! This is the best sequel I’ve read. If you haven’t already saddled up and joined the Skandar rollercoaster then now is the time to jump on board. You will not be disappointed. This is an unputdownable page turner and the series deserves to be read in every school around the world. The end leaves you desperately wanting more. I can’t wait for book 3!

I've waited SO long for this and now I'm going to have to wait an age for the next one. It's stunning. A brilliant sequel to Skandar and the Unicorn Thief - a thrilling read that left me breathless. Skandar and the Phantom Rider crackles with action, magic and danger. Six out of five stars!