In this Thronerunner book review, I’m sharing why I loved continuing Cinder’s adventures. If you read my review of Stormbringer: The Predator’s Stone , you’ll know how much I enjoyed the first book in this series by G.R. Boden. This book was gifted to me by the publisher, Bushel & Peck Books, and all opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Title: Thronerunner
Author: G.R. Boden
Publisher: Bushel & Peck Books
Series: The Predator’s Stone, Book 2
Ages: 10–14
What Is Thronerunner About?
The story picks up with Cinder Moss returning to her normal life after her adventures in the Nine Realms. However, her days of fighting mythical creatures and getting caught up in the affairs of the Norse gods are far from over.
After surviving an attack in her room and on her way to school, Cinder finds herself once again drawn into the world of Asgard. Trigga, a Valkyrie who helped her in the first book, returns to take her back to the Proving Grounds.
This time, Cinder has a new mission. Thor, the God of Thunder, has had his legendary hammer taken away after it was used in a murder. Thor claims to be innocent, but no one quite knows what happened. Cinder is asked to retrieve the hammer from Jotunheim, the land of the giants. (If you have watched any of the Thor movies, these names should start to ring a bell.)
With the threat of Ragnarok (a final battle between the gods) hanging over the Nine Realms, Cinder and her friends must face another dangerous journey, not knowing what or who they will encounter along the way.
What I Loved About Thronerunner
I am still a big fan of Cinder. She is not someone who hesitates when faced with the unknown. Even when she has little idea of what lies ahead, she is willing to embark on dangerous journeys. Her courage does not come from knowing that she will succeed, but from her determination to do what she believes is right.
Cinder is strong-willed and continues to question even the gods when she believes something is unjust. She may be young, but she has a strong sense of fairness and an extraordinary amount of courage.
Like the first book, Thronerunner is filled with adventure, mythical creatures, and challenging journeys. It is a story that requires you to pay attention, particularly as the prophecy and the events surrounding the Nine Realms continue to unfold.
Should Kids Read Stormbringer First?
Yes. I would recommend reading Stormbringer first. There are several returning characters, relationships, and events that are important to understanding Cinder’s journey in this second book.
Why Kids May Love This Book
- Norse mythology comes alive. Readers who enjoy stories about Odin, Thor, Asgard, and the Nine Realms will enjoy seeing these mythological characters woven into a fictional adventure.
- Cinder is a brave and determined heroine. She is willing to venture into the unknown, face dangerous enemies, and stand up for what she believes is right.
- The story encourages readers to think about courage and justice. Cinder is not afraid to question authority, especially when she believes something is wrong.
- It continues an exciting series. Readers who enjoyed the first book will get to follow familiar characters while discovering new places and challenges.
Anything Parents Should Be Concerned About?
As with the first book, Thronerunner contains plenty of fantasy battles, dangerous creatures, and situations in which the characters face serious threats.
Violence and frightening scenes: There are sword fights, attacks by mythical beasts, battles with giants, and deaths. But for kids who read Percy Jackson and similar books this is not far from that.
Murder and death: A murder is central to the storyline, and there are additional threats to characters’ lives.
Mythology and supernatural elements: The book features Norse gods, Valkyries, prophecies, magical weapons, and supernatural creatures. These are central to the fictional world rather than simply background references.
My age recommendation: I would suggest this book for ages 10–14, particularly for readers who are comfortable with longer fantasy novels and action-filled adventures.
My Final Thoughts
While the Percy Jackson books are incredibly popular with this age group, this series is also worth reading as it introduces kids to Norse Mythology. Start with Stormbringer before picking up Thronerunner, as the books are connected and best read in order. I am hoping a third book is in the works.
Looking for more middle grade reads? Try my lists of middle grade novels in verse and middle grade historical fiction books from around the world.
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