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The Soulbound Saga #2
The Tainted Khan
The next installment in New York Times bestselling author Taran Matharu’s Soulbound Saga--a thrilling cultivation and progression epic fantasy series--continuing the harrowing journey of Jai as he navigates returning to his own people, growing in his magic and as a warrior, fending off attacks both without and within...and, of course, bonding even more with his dragon!
Jai dreams of being a dragon rider. He dreams of freedom from the Sabine Empire and a world in which he can lead his people, the Kidara, to freedom. But even though he has his dragon, Winter, she is still growing, just as he’s still growing in his own power. And the road to victory is even more fraught than he had hoped.
Because even when he finds a tribe on the Great Steppe, they are not his people. More, they are outcasts, the Tainted, and he finds that he knows little of the customs and political intricacies that take place in these vast grasslands. He is a stranger amongst his own kind, and that is even more apparent when he reunites with the Kidara, for Jai’s uncle rules, and is loath to cede power to his nephew. And even if Jai was sure he could take the reins of the leadership, he isn’t sure he could actually hold them.
But the legionaries and Gryphon Guard of the Sabine Empire are wreaking havoc against the other tribes of the Great Steppe, and Jai is forced to learn a lifetime’s worth of knowledge in a matter of months. From taming the massive khiroi that make up the tribe’s calvary, to levelling up his magic, to becoming a true warrior, worrying over the fate of the woman he loves, and strengthening his bond with Winter, Jai is a dragon rider with a massive weight on his young shoulders. And his greatest hope is that the shoulders of Winter will soon be strong enough to help carry him.
Jai dreams of being a dragon rider. He dreams of freedom from the Sabine Empire and a world in which he can lead his people, the Kidara, to freedom. But even though he has his dragon, Winter, she is still growing, just as he’s still growing in his own power. And the road to victory is even more fraught than he had hoped.
Because even when he finds a tribe on the Great Steppe, they are not his people. More, they are outcasts, the Tainted, and he finds that he knows little of the customs and political intricacies that take place in these vast grasslands. He is a stranger amongst his own kind, and that is even more apparent when he reunites with the Kidara, for Jai’s uncle rules, and is loath to cede power to his nephew. And even if Jai was sure he could take the reins of the leadership, he isn’t sure he could actually hold them.
But the legionaries and Gryphon Guard of the Sabine Empire are wreaking havoc against the other tribes of the Great Steppe, and Jai is forced to learn a lifetime’s worth of knowledge in a matter of months. From taming the massive khiroi that make up the tribe’s calvary, to levelling up his magic, to becoming a true warrior, worrying over the fate of the woman he loves, and strengthening his bond with Winter, Jai is a dragon rider with a massive weight on his young shoulders. And his greatest hope is that the shoulders of Winter will soon be strong enough to help carry him.
592 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2025
200 people are currently reading
5445 people want to read
About the author
Taran Matharu
29 books4,595 followersTaran Matharu is the New York Times bestselling author of the Summoner series, which has been translated into 15 languages and has sold over a million copies in English. He was born in London in 1990.
Taran began to write the SUMMONER series in November 2013 at the age of 22, taking part in ‘Nanowrimo 2013’ and sharing his work on Wattpad.com. The shared sample of the story went viral, reaching over 3 million reads in less than six months. THE CHOSEN is his first book in his new CONTENDER series, out now.
His books are published by Hodder Children’s (Hachette) in the UK, Australia and Commonwealth, Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan) in the US and Canada, Hachette Jeunesse in France, Heyne in Germany, Planeta in Spain, Crown in Taiwan, Record in Brazil, EKSMO in Russia, Jaguar in Poland, Ecliptic in Bulgaria, Alpress in the Czech Republic, Ithaki in Turkey, Forlaget Forar in Denmark and Unieboek in the Netherlands.
Taran began to write the SUMMONER series in November 2013 at the age of 22, taking part in ‘Nanowrimo 2013’ and sharing his work on Wattpad.com. The shared sample of the story went viral, reaching over 3 million reads in less than six months. THE CHOSEN is his first book in his new CONTENDER series, out now.
His books are published by Hodder Children’s (Hachette) in the UK, Australia and Commonwealth, Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan) in the US and Canada, Hachette Jeunesse in France, Heyne in Germany, Planeta in Spain, Crown in Taiwan, Record in Brazil, EKSMO in Russia, Jaguar in Poland, Ecliptic in Bulgaria, Alpress in the Czech Republic, Ithaki in Turkey, Forlaget Forar in Denmark and Unieboek in the Netherlands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
September 11, 2025
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Rating: 3.5 stars
At the heart of ‘The Tainted Khan’ lies a fascinating political landscape and an epic character journey, but the descriptive writing style makes the pacing uneven.
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This sequel dives straight into the elaborate worldbuilding as Jai becomes immersed in the culture and politics of his people. While this gives the story a slow start, the character-driven storyline gradually gains momentum through intensifying political intrigue and bursts of action. The use of short chapters and cliffhanger endings also effectively keeps the story engaging throughout. What's more, themes of identity, war, greed, and loss add depth that enriches the storyline.
"words are wind. Actions are the currency of trust."
Despite the odds stacked against him, Jai actively shapes his journey in this book. His emotions and motives are clearly detailed and relatable, although parts of his character growth felt rushed. Like Jai, the waves of supporting characters also have some complexity, which makes them realistic. However, the characters drift in and out of the story, so they failed to make a lasting impression.
"She was his constant, her love the beacon that guided him in the darkest of hours."
The main drawback for me was Taran Matharu's overly descriptive writing style. While it smoothly brings Jai’s rough ascent and the harsh tribal landscape of the Steppe to life, it tends to tell more than it shows, resulting in an uneven pace. A few awkward innuendos also threw me off, but the subtle romance subplot that emerges is adorable and well-developed.
See my other reviews for Taran Matharu:
The Soulbound Saga:
Dragon Rider
You can also find more of my thoughts and discussion questions on my blog! - I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Rating: 3.5 stars
At the heart of ‘The Tainted Khan’ lies a fascinating political landscape and an epic character journey, but the descriptive writing style makes the pacing uneven.
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This sequel dives straight into the elaborate worldbuilding as Jai becomes immersed in the culture and politics of his people. While this gives the story a slow start, the character-driven storyline gradually gains momentum through intensifying political intrigue and bursts of action. The use of short chapters and cliffhanger endings also effectively keeps the story engaging throughout. What's more, themes of identity, war, greed, and loss add depth that enriches the storyline.
"words are wind. Actions are the currency of trust."
Despite the odds stacked against him, Jai actively shapes his journey in this book. His emotions and motives are clearly detailed and relatable, although parts of his character growth felt rushed. Like Jai, the waves of supporting characters also have some complexity, which makes them realistic. However, the characters drift in and out of the story, so they failed to make a lasting impression.
"She was his constant, her love the beacon that guided him in the darkest of hours."
The main drawback for me was Taran Matharu's overly descriptive writing style. While it smoothly brings Jai’s rough ascent and the harsh tribal landscape of the Steppe to life, it tends to tell more than it shows, resulting in an uneven pace. A few awkward innuendos also threw me off, but the subtle romance subplot that emerges is adorable and well-developed.
See my other reviews for Taran Matharu:
The Soulbound Saga:
Dragon Rider
You can also find more of my thoughts and discussion questions on my blog! - I'd love to hear your thoughts!
May 7, 2025
2.75 stars. I really, really loved "Dragon Rider," the first book of this series. It straddled the line between regular fantasy and high fantasy and it teased at a much bigger world I was so excited to learn about. But most of what I HOPED would happen did not happen in this second book. Instead, we got hundreds of pages of the political workings of the Steppe tribes interspersed with Jai soul breathing. Over and over again. At the end of the day, I don't feel like the plot progressed in the slightest and Jai seemed like a whole new character in this second book. Winter, the dragon, is barely pertinent to the story (which considering the first book is called "Dragon Rider," you'd assume she'd be a major plot point for most of the series). I will still continue with the series, but if book 3 doesn't actually move the plot forward, I'll be quitting after that. This feels like it could be a really solid trilogy and is instead going to be dragged out for 5-6 books.
April 21, 2025
The Tainted Khan
by Taran Matharu
The Soulbound Saga #2
Fantasy Epic
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: April 22, 2025
Avon and Harper Voyager
Ages: 16+
Jai and Winter are held by the Tainted, a tribe of outcasts, the reason forgotten, but under a banner of trade, he and his dragon are traded to the Kidara, his father's tribe, but his uncle rules, and will not give up the throne.
Knowing that the legionaries and Gryphon Guard of the Sabine Empire are once again coming into the Steppe, to try and claim the lands once again, and will kill any tribe who stands in their way, and capture and enslave the rest, Jai must do something to protect the Steppe and its people.
But if left up to Jai's uncle, the lands would be forfeit for gold and a life of luxury.
Book two of the series was a disappointment. Sure, there were some action scenes, but they were short and few. Most of the book was about Jai's trek... spoilers...
There were some interesting characters and situations, but the story itself was slow due to Jai's need to ascend and the need to breathe mana. It got repetitive, thus boring! Pages of a decent recap of the previous book were needed more! Yeah, the recap was majorly lacking. There was some sprinkling, but it was sporadic, leaving the reader lost until the end, and then the reader is reminded.
There is violence, gore, and death, which makes this book unsuitable for readers under sixteen. There was a minuscule amount of adult content, but it's somewhat tamer than a TV soap opera.
I did like the first book, but this one wasn't as good, leaving me to question if I really want to read the next in the series.
A low...
3 Stars
by Taran Matharu
The Soulbound Saga #2
Fantasy Epic
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: April 22, 2025
Avon and Harper Voyager
Ages: 16+
Jai and Winter are held by the Tainted, a tribe of outcasts, the reason forgotten, but under a banner of trade, he and his dragon are traded to the Kidara, his father's tribe, but his uncle rules, and will not give up the throne.
Knowing that the legionaries and Gryphon Guard of the Sabine Empire are once again coming into the Steppe, to try and claim the lands once again, and will kill any tribe who stands in their way, and capture and enslave the rest, Jai must do something to protect the Steppe and its people.
But if left up to Jai's uncle, the lands would be forfeit for gold and a life of luxury.
Book two of the series was a disappointment. Sure, there were some action scenes, but they were short and few. Most of the book was about Jai's trek... spoilers...
There were some interesting characters and situations, but the story itself was slow due to Jai's need to ascend and the need to breathe mana. It got repetitive, thus boring! Pages of a decent recap of the previous book were needed more! Yeah, the recap was majorly lacking. There was some sprinkling, but it was sporadic, leaving the reader lost until the end, and then the reader is reminded.
There is violence, gore, and death, which makes this book unsuitable for readers under sixteen. There was a minuscule amount of adult content, but it's somewhat tamer than a TV soap opera.
I did like the first book, but this one wasn't as good, leaving me to question if I really want to read the next in the series.
A low...
3 Stars
December 10, 2024
First off, thank you to Harper Voyager for providing me with an eARC!
Jai and Winter's epic story continues right where the first book left off! Taran Matharu filled this booked up with action-packed scenes that had me envisioning it all in my head like a movie!
The writing was so well done for third person, and just everything was planned out so nicely.
The downside I could say was that it was a little predictable, but the ending of the book, aka the cliffhanger that was not predictable, not at all!!
Jai and Winter's epic story continues right where the first book left off! Taran Matharu filled this booked up with action-packed scenes that had me envisioning it all in my head like a movie!
The writing was so well done for third person, and just everything was planned out so nicely.
The downside I could say was that it was a little predictable, but the ending of the book, aka the cliffhanger that was not predictable, not at all!!
April 11, 2025
First, thank you Harper Voyager for providing me with an eARC! This series deserves way more hype! This book was a 4.5⭐️ read for me! The story continues to have you on the edge of your seat, the YEARNING, the battles! It’s amazing! Really enjoyed the second installment of this book and can’t wait to pick up book 3 after that last page!
August 9, 2025
2.5-3? The first 40-50% was kinda boring. I get it you gotta take your place. Then, the quest was interesting. The last 25% was more alliances, battle strategies, and inevitable war…. Of course a secret revealed at the end. It is a transition book and REALLY felt like one…
May 14, 2025
Thank you to Harper Voyager and NetGalley for the gifted digital copy of this book. This is my honest review.
The Tainted Khan is a book I've really been looking forward to! I absolutely devoured Dragon Rider last year. I love a good epic fantasy and dragons are my favorite mythical creatures, so how could I resist? The Tainted Khan really took us on a wild ride as Jai is back in his homeland for the first time since he was a child. He has to navigate a world that is no longer familiar and convince his people that he is the son of the former High Khan. I really loved Jai's bond with Winter during this book. As Winter grows and Jai becomes more experienced , their soulbond strengthens and becomes something special and beautiful. Jai faces many obstacles in this book and has to figure out how to overcome them with strength, creativity, and cunning. I loved it!
The Tainted Khan is a book I've really been looking forward to! I absolutely devoured Dragon Rider last year. I love a good epic fantasy and dragons are my favorite mythical creatures, so how could I resist? The Tainted Khan really took us on a wild ride as Jai is back in his homeland for the first time since he was a child. He has to navigate a world that is no longer familiar and convince his people that he is the son of the former High Khan. I really loved Jai's bond with Winter during this book. As Winter grows and Jai becomes more experienced , their soulbond strengthens and becomes something special and beautiful. Jai faces many obstacles in this book and has to figure out how to overcome them with strength, creativity, and cunning. I loved it!
April 22, 2025
4.5/5, Rounded up for Goodreads.
What an epic continuation of the series!
The Tainted Khan starts right where Dragon Rider leaves off. This book is all about character growth and our main characters coming into their own strength. The beginning might seem a bit slow, however being a Character Driven Reader, it was so interesting seeing Jai learn about his people that he'd been separated from his whole life.
Seeing Jai take charge while still being humble and true to his character, along with the continued world building, and politics made for an enjoyable read.
And that ending?! WHAT! What a cliffhanger!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, the author, and Avon and Harper Voyager for the eArc.
What an epic continuation of the series!
The Tainted Khan starts right where Dragon Rider leaves off. This book is all about character growth and our main characters coming into their own strength. The beginning might seem a bit slow, however being a Character Driven Reader, it was so interesting seeing Jai learn about his people that he'd been separated from his whole life.
Seeing Jai take charge while still being humble and true to his character, along with the continued world building, and politics made for an enjoyable read.
And that ending?! WHAT! What a cliffhanger!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, the author, and Avon and Harper Voyager for the eArc.
March 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalleyUk and HarperCollins Uk, Harper Fiction, for an eARC of The Tainted Khan in return for an honest review.
The Tainted Khan is the second book in The Soulbound Saga series, following the first book Dragon Rider. In this story we pick up with Jai separating from the rest of the characters in the Steppe, the land from where he originated, ready to regain the title of Khan, his birthright. This is an epic adventure from him learning the basics about life within the tribe to all of the obstacles he must cross, both to gain the trust of the people, and to wage war against their enemies.
What drew my attention to the first book was the storyline of the dragons. I felt like this was a little slow over the first 100 pages of this second book, as there was very little of Winter (Jai's dragon) in it; the book definitely picked up more as it progressed and I was very happy with how much page time we then got with Winter. This is a longer book than I would normally read, but I think the length of this (over 500pages) was perfect. The author spent the time to show us more depth to Jai, and even though he read a little young, I was rooting for him and pleased with the character progress that we got with him. I look forward to spending more time with Jai, in this world, in the next one.
I recommend this is If you like epic political fantasies, with dragons, gorgeous descriptions of the natural scenery, and well written fight scenes.
The Tainted Khan is the second book in The Soulbound Saga series, following the first book Dragon Rider. In this story we pick up with Jai separating from the rest of the characters in the Steppe, the land from where he originated, ready to regain the title of Khan, his birthright. This is an epic adventure from him learning the basics about life within the tribe to all of the obstacles he must cross, both to gain the trust of the people, and to wage war against their enemies.
What drew my attention to the first book was the storyline of the dragons. I felt like this was a little slow over the first 100 pages of this second book, as there was very little of Winter (Jai's dragon) in it; the book definitely picked up more as it progressed and I was very happy with how much page time we then got with Winter. This is a longer book than I would normally read, but I think the length of this (over 500pages) was perfect. The author spent the time to show us more depth to Jai, and even though he read a little young, I was rooting for him and pleased with the character progress that we got with him. I look forward to spending more time with Jai, in this world, in the next one.
I recommend this is If you like epic political fantasies, with dragons, gorgeous descriptions of the natural scenery, and well written fight scenes.
September 27, 2025
DNF at 180 pages, nobody likes to not finish a book, and unfortunately I didn't find myself invested in any character or plot and just got bored.
There was a lot of info dumping about the stepped people. I just stopped reading when Jai has a bit of a personality change and suddenly thinks he deserves to be king. I did however like the prose, and I think this is more of a YA story rather than just A. Absolutely nothing wrong with that just it's not for me.
Hopefully I'm not making a mistake, and that from where I've stopped onwards is fantastic. But unfortunately I won't be reading this nor any other in this series. Sad times.
There was a lot of info dumping about the stepped people. I just stopped reading when Jai has a bit of a personality change and suddenly thinks he deserves to be king. I did however like the prose, and I think this is more of a YA story rather than just A. Absolutely nothing wrong with that just it's not for me.
Hopefully I'm not making a mistake, and that from where I've stopped onwards is fantastic. But unfortunately I won't be reading this nor any other in this series. Sad times.
August 15, 2025
Finally finished this masterpiece ❤️ love love loved x
February 3, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
***3.5***
I really liked Dragon Rider (the first book in this series)- the characters, their dynamics/relationships, the magic system, the world, the creatures, and the politics.
This book was a step down/back for me- at least the first half was.
Jai finds himself in a clan of his people... but also not his people. They bash him for being raised by royals, but help him learn their ways/culture so they can trade him at a higher cost to his actual clan.
There was nothing inherently bad or wrong with the story or the writing, the author created a lot of tradition and culture, for some reason I just personally found the setting and characters super boring. I think a big part of it is that Jai is on a personal journey having not fit in his whole upbringing and thinking finding his people would solve that, only to learn they also don’t accept him. It’s a lot of personal and internal growth/character development, but being written in third person I had no connection or emotional attachment at all.
Also, having fallen in love with the people and magic system in the first book, we don’t see those people or really delve more into magic (other than “I used mana" and "I refilled mana”) until after the 60% point.
I will say the last 35% was much more similar to the first book and I REALLY enjoyed it. Without spoiling- we go to a new place with a cool backstory and get back into the interesting magic system and see some familiar faces with a splash of trials.
AGAIN- nothing technically wrong with the beginning, personally I just felt bored and detached and had to force myself through it- it just wasn't for me. Maybe a bit drawn out too? I understand the reader needs to experience the growing pains as well, but did we need half a chapter on Jai getting into and sitting in the bath- detailing using the soaps and oils?
I will still continue this series (especially after that ending) and truly look forward to what happens next for Jai.
***3.5***
I really liked Dragon Rider (the first book in this series)- the characters, their dynamics/relationships, the magic system, the world, the creatures, and the politics.
This book was a step down/back for me- at least the first half was.
Jai finds himself in a clan of his people... but also not his people. They bash him for being raised by royals, but help him learn their ways/culture so they can trade him at a higher cost to his actual clan.
There was nothing inherently bad or wrong with the story or the writing, the author created a lot of tradition and culture, for some reason I just personally found the setting and characters super boring. I think a big part of it is that Jai is on a personal journey having not fit in his whole upbringing and thinking finding his people would solve that, only to learn they also don’t accept him. It’s a lot of personal and internal growth/character development, but being written in third person I had no connection or emotional attachment at all.
Also, having fallen in love with the people and magic system in the first book, we don’t see those people or really delve more into magic (other than “I used mana" and "I refilled mana”) until after the 60% point.
I will say the last 35% was much more similar to the first book and I REALLY enjoyed it. Without spoiling- we go to a new place with a cool backstory and get back into the interesting magic system and see some familiar faces with a splash of trials.
AGAIN- nothing technically wrong with the beginning, personally I just felt bored and detached and had to force myself through it- it just wasn't for me. Maybe a bit drawn out too? I understand the reader needs to experience the growing pains as well, but did we need half a chapter on Jai getting into and sitting in the bath- detailing using the soaps and oils?
I will still continue this series (especially after that ending) and truly look forward to what happens next for Jai.
April 18, 2025
www.instagram.com/novelswithnick
I think if you enjoyed Dragon Rider then I don’t see why you wouldn’t enjoy its sequel. This is shaping up to be one of those series where we are familiar with the story but there are just enough extras to make it stand as its own
You get to learn more about the world and see the MCs character develop quite a lot. Along with winter, the dragon companion, I liked how other creatures were introduced to the story. Although it’s classed as adult, it’s definitely at the lower end so it’s great if you don’t want to use your brain too much
I’m looking forward to book 3 as I feel like it’s going to be an eventful one. Thank you to @harpervoyager_uk for sending this over!
I think if you enjoyed Dragon Rider then I don’t see why you wouldn’t enjoy its sequel. This is shaping up to be one of those series where we are familiar with the story but there are just enough extras to make it stand as its own
You get to learn more about the world and see the MCs character develop quite a lot. Along with winter, the dragon companion, I liked how other creatures were introduced to the story. Although it’s classed as adult, it’s definitely at the lower end so it’s great if you don’t want to use your brain too much
I’m looking forward to book 3 as I feel like it’s going to be an eventful one. Thank you to @harpervoyager_uk for sending this over!
May 2, 2025
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
Kicking off straight from where Dragon Rider left off and a plot packed full of action.
The pacing was a lot faster in this one since most of the world building had been established in its predecessor. However, there was still plenty of added development to the world as we saw it expanded through Jai's eyes.
I love the connection and relationship between Jai and Winter. You can feel the tenderness and depth their love has, and I still want a Winter of my own, even now she's big enough for Jai to fly.
Dare I say I preferred this book to Dragon Rider? Especially after that ending, which I couldn't have predicted and has left me desperate for the next book ASAP!
Kicking off straight from where Dragon Rider left off and a plot packed full of action.
The pacing was a lot faster in this one since most of the world building had been established in its predecessor. However, there was still plenty of added development to the world as we saw it expanded through Jai's eyes.
I love the connection and relationship between Jai and Winter. You can feel the tenderness and depth their love has, and I still want a Winter of my own, even now she's big enough for Jai to fly.
Dare I say I preferred this book to Dragon Rider? Especially after that ending, which I couldn't have predicted and has left me desperate for the next book ASAP!
June 13, 2025
Ok this one is completely on me I forget everything that happens in the first book and my brains fried from all these big reads I’m so confused on what happened here I love the whole magic mountain montage power up bit tho veerrrry nice , romance isn’t it for me
August 11, 2025
I enjoyed the audiobook but I do get annoyed when voice narrators do not research the pronunciation of some of the cultural words and names.
August 5, 2025
the pacing was WILD like the first half of the book is actually kinda batshit crazy. jai is the epitome of rise and grind. If you like political fantasy this one goes crazy, ive never seen a 17 yr old be so productive
i will admit, my main gripe is that jai is 17 and a little bit of a mary sue character. i do wish he had started the series as at least 18 or 19, and i wish this second book at least had some kind of political training arc for jai. it bothers me that he is 17 and doing all this, purely because it is the most unrealistic thing about this book - i know its fantasy, but I would like the characters to seem real and jai does not seem real. he does not struggle enough, he is too perfect at first try. Part of this lack of realism is also from his lack of remorse. jai is a killing machine, and he is only 17, yet he is unblinking when he cuts down his opponents. i would like his decisions to fail, i would like him to look at the bodies he cuts down, i would like to see him actually weigh the result of his actions. furthermore, where does all this knowledge of tactics arise? how has he got the skills he has with such little training? how does he escape the sabine palace, with little tactical knowledge and nothing but the clothes on his back, and suddenly have the capacity to wage war? how can a 17 yr old who has been so sheltered become a fierce diplomat, with such little mentorship, in the span of half a year?
these criticisms will not stop me from continuing to read this series as it releases, as i believe the entertainment outweighs these criticisms. But i am slightly disappointed, knowing that Cade Carter from the Contender series exists with more depth than Jai and knowing the author is capable of demonstrating complex characters making heavy moral decisions.
i hope such depth and tribulations occur in Jais arc in the next books, and importantly i hope Jai becomes older. I hope he had a birthday in the 6 months (i think) this book takes place, if nothing but for that one scene
i will admit, my main gripe is that jai is 17 and a little bit of a mary sue character. i do wish he had started the series as at least 18 or 19, and i wish this second book at least had some kind of political training arc for jai. it bothers me that he is 17 and doing all this, purely because it is the most unrealistic thing about this book - i know its fantasy, but I would like the characters to seem real and jai does not seem real. he does not struggle enough, he is too perfect at first try. Part of this lack of realism is also from his lack of remorse. jai is a killing machine, and he is only 17, yet he is unblinking when he cuts down his opponents. i would like his decisions to fail, i would like him to look at the bodies he cuts down, i would like to see him actually weigh the result of his actions. furthermore, where does all this knowledge of tactics arise? how has he got the skills he has with such little training? how does he escape the sabine palace, with little tactical knowledge and nothing but the clothes on his back, and suddenly have the capacity to wage war? how can a 17 yr old who has been so sheltered become a fierce diplomat, with such little mentorship, in the span of half a year?
these criticisms will not stop me from continuing to read this series as it releases, as i believe the entertainment outweighs these criticisms. But i am slightly disappointed, knowing that Cade Carter from the Contender series exists with more depth than Jai and knowing the author is capable of demonstrating complex characters making heavy moral decisions.
i hope such depth and tribulations occur in Jais arc in the next books, and importantly i hope Jai becomes older. I hope he had a birthday in the 6 months (i think) this book takes place, if nothing but for that one scene
May 10, 2025
4⭐️
After eagerly awaiting the sequel to The Dragon Rider, I finally had the chance to dive back into Jai’s world—and what an experience it was. While the first installment captured my heart with its deep emotional bond between Jai and his dragon, Winter, as well as its unique magical system, this second book took a different approach.
Admittedly, the beginning was slow, but crucial for Jai’s character development. It would have been helpful if the book had started with a brief recap of the previous events—retrieving details from the first book was a bit of a struggle at first. However, once past the initial pacing hurdle, the story unfolds beautifully. Jai reconnects with his roots, immersing himself in the traditions and rituals of his people and becoming a Khan himself, uniting different tribes together. His bond with Winter grows even deeper, and his magic strengthens. The world-building is expansive, delving into political intricacies that require patience, but ultimately add richness to the narrative.
Once the story picks up speed, it delivers intense battles and political mind games that kept me hooked. The ending? A completely unexpected plot twist that left me reeling—and frustrated that I have to wait for the next installment.
One minor drawback was the delayed reunion with Erica. Perhaps a few chapters from her perspective early on could have balanced the narrative and added more variety, especially considering Jai’s time as Zayn’s prisoner. A shift in pacing at that point would have helped smooth the flow.
Despite these small critiques, The Tainted Khanh proves to be a rewarding sequel that deepens the characters and expands the world in compelling ways. A must-read for fans of the first book!
After eagerly awaiting the sequel to The Dragon Rider, I finally had the chance to dive back into Jai’s world—and what an experience it was. While the first installment captured my heart with its deep emotional bond between Jai and his dragon, Winter, as well as its unique magical system, this second book took a different approach.
Admittedly, the beginning was slow, but crucial for Jai’s character development. It would have been helpful if the book had started with a brief recap of the previous events—retrieving details from the first book was a bit of a struggle at first. However, once past the initial pacing hurdle, the story unfolds beautifully. Jai reconnects with his roots, immersing himself in the traditions and rituals of his people and becoming a Khan himself, uniting different tribes together. His bond with Winter grows even deeper, and his magic strengthens. The world-building is expansive, delving into political intricacies that require patience, but ultimately add richness to the narrative.
Once the story picks up speed, it delivers intense battles and political mind games that kept me hooked. The ending? A completely unexpected plot twist that left me reeling—and frustrated that I have to wait for the next installment.
One minor drawback was the delayed reunion with Erica. Perhaps a few chapters from her perspective early on could have balanced the narrative and added more variety, especially considering Jai’s time as Zayn’s prisoner. A shift in pacing at that point would have helped smooth the flow.
Despite these small critiques, The Tainted Khanh proves to be a rewarding sequel that deepens the characters and expands the world in compelling ways. A must-read for fans of the first book!
May 7, 2025
I’ve been patiently waiting for this one a d it did not disappoint! I loved it. Jai’s journey through the lands and tribes was so inspiring and it was nice to see his character development grow from the young lost boy to the strong and intelligent man. Winter his dragon, her development was much the same as Jai’s but it had a really nice natural feminine quality put in there where one minute she was this sweet loving dragon then the next she’s got this little mama bear roll going that is only going to get more intense as she grows to her full size. I also loved the world building in this. There’s such a detailed description you can’t help but imagine everything right down to the armour and the camps, the land, the animals… just everything is so well put together. The story was great to I loved how things have become and that epilogue was honestly the best!
The only thing that does bore me slightly is the soul breathing thing, I find that slightly tedious but other than that I love this series so much.
The only thing that does bore me slightly is the soul breathing thing, I find that slightly tedious but other than that I love this series so much.
July 5, 2025
3.5 stars. For me, the book fell a little flat compared to the first one. Overall, the action/adventure was in the backseat compared to the day to day politics of the steppe, where key events were unevenly dispersed through a relatively unremarkable backdrop. An opinion that was likely accentuated by how good I found the first book.
The story was pretty predictable most of the time, and a lot of the main character’s choices made it seem like he hadn’t learned anything from what he went through in the first book. There were also some subtle changes in his personality that just didn’t really line up with how he’d grown in the first book. I also think that the book did a disservice to Winter as a character. Sometimes, she felt less like a fully developed character and more like a narrative tool to serve others’ arcs. Her agency is minimal, and her personality is almost entirely reactive. And, while I loved a few of the new characters, most felt relatively shallow and didn’t have as much depth as they did in the first book.
That said, it’s still a decent read. There’s enough there to enjoy, even if it doesn’t quite live up to the first one
The story was pretty predictable most of the time, and a lot of the main character’s choices made it seem like he hadn’t learned anything from what he went through in the first book. There were also some subtle changes in his personality that just didn’t really line up with how he’d grown in the first book. I also think that the book did a disservice to Winter as a character. Sometimes, she felt less like a fully developed character and more like a narrative tool to serve others’ arcs. Her agency is minimal, and her personality is almost entirely reactive. And, while I loved a few of the new characters, most felt relatively shallow and didn’t have as much depth as they did in the first book.
That said, it’s still a decent read. There’s enough there to enjoy, even if it doesn’t quite live up to the first one
November 16, 2025
I love a pretty cover and I adore dragons! Book two builds on book one, introducing Jai to his people and land. He has a huge amount to learn about the customs, politics... well everything, having been raised as a hostage Prince by the enemy. We meet new characters, learn new things about the previous war and watch Jai fulfil the strategic potential that Leonid fostered
Jai also works on his magic, while Winter learns about her power as an adult dragon.
As a result of this, there isn't as much happening in the book. We aren't racing from danger to danger in the non stop adventure that was book one. Don't get me wrong, stuff still happens but there are long chapters on learning to be a Soulbound.
The ending is totally gob-smacking! Hopefully book three won't take too long to appear.
My thanks to @Netgalley and @Harpercollins for an e-arc I have since bought the audiobook which is excellent.
Jai also works on his magic, while Winter learns about her power as an adult dragon.
As a result of this, there isn't as much happening in the book. We aren't racing from danger to danger in the non stop adventure that was book one. Don't get me wrong, stuff still happens but there are long chapters on learning to be a Soulbound.
The ending is totally gob-smacking! Hopefully book three won't take too long to appear.
My thanks to @Netgalley and @Harpercollins for an e-arc I have since bought the audiobook which is excellent.
April 29, 2025
This was crazyyy good!!!!!!
I mean what a thrilling ending, this was definitely better than the last book.
Even better, we get to see more action and growth from our main character Jai. Unlike the first book, Jai managed to wrestle a little bit of control into his spiraling life of being chased and beaten at every turn.
I loved the use of Leonid's diary to fletch out the happenings of the past, it made for a very Interesting read. The author also wasn't afraid to add a little bit of romance into the mix, it didn't take up a major part of the story and was only shown towards the ending of the book.
I have to say I'm really happy with the trajectory the author took with this book, I was half expecting another slug of setbacks after setbacks where we'd be primed for a silver lining in the next book. This was nothing like that.
I mean what a thrilling ending, this was definitely better than the last book.
Even better, we get to see more action and growth from our main character Jai. Unlike the first book, Jai managed to wrestle a little bit of control into his spiraling life of being chased and beaten at every turn.
I loved the use of Leonid's diary to fletch out the happenings of the past, it made for a very Interesting read. The author also wasn't afraid to add a little bit of romance into the mix, it didn't take up a major part of the story and was only shown towards the ending of the book.
I have to say I'm really happy with the trajectory the author took with this book, I was half expecting another slug of setbacks after setbacks where we'd be primed for a silver lining in the next book. This was nothing like that.
August 29, 2025
Another great addition to this series and I am looking forward to finding out what happens next, especially after THAT revelation at the very end.
Though there were moments during this book that I felt were skipped over or just glossed a little, I enjoyed reading about Jai and his growth, going from slave to Khan. The politics, soul bonds, dragons, and the culture of the different peoples were well written, and detailed enough that I was intrigued.
I loved the fact that he reunited with Erica and though it's clearly a small plot point, I am sure that their relationship will have considerable impact on the political mergers he is trying to forget, she is the Queen of the Dansk after Titus' brutal act in the first book, and Jai is in the process of proving himself worthy of the role of High Khan.
Well worth a read for those who love high fantasy.
Though there were moments during this book that I felt were skipped over or just glossed a little, I enjoyed reading about Jai and his growth, going from slave to Khan. The politics, soul bonds, dragons, and the culture of the different peoples were well written, and detailed enough that I was intrigued.
I loved the fact that he reunited with Erica and though it's clearly a small plot point, I am sure that their relationship will have considerable impact on the political mergers he is trying to forget, she is the Queen of the Dansk after Titus' brutal act in the first book, and Jai is in the process of proving himself worthy of the role of High Khan.
Well worth a read for those who love high fantasy.
April 18, 2025
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Fantasy / Dragons
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Taran Matharu's The Tainted Khan is the second installment in the author's The Soulbound Saga series. The Tainted Khan picks up immediately after the events of Dragon Rider, with Jai, a former political prisoner of the Sabine Empire, returning to his homeland, the Great Steppe, to reclaim his birthright as Khan and lead his people, the Kidara, to freedom. Accompanied by his dragon, Winter, Jai faces new challenges as he navigates a fractured tribal landscape.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Fantasy / Dragons
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Taran Matharu's The Tainted Khan is the second installment in the author's The Soulbound Saga series. The Tainted Khan picks up immediately after the events of Dragon Rider, with Jai, a former political prisoner of the Sabine Empire, returning to his homeland, the Great Steppe, to reclaim his birthright as Khan and lead his people, the Kidara, to freedom. Accompanied by his dragon, Winter, Jai faces new challenges as he navigates a fractured tribal landscape.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
June 15, 2025
I loved Dragon Rider, so I was excited to read The Tainted Khan to continue Jai’s journey. It’s half political machinations, half battle strategy, half personal journey (how many halves was that?). The world building here is masterful, and it’s all done on a personal level. It’s not just Jai observing the different cultures. It’s Jai living immersed in them. The downside of this is that it’s a slow-building middle book. But emphatically worth reading because of the incredible first book and the incredible third book that I know Matheru will produce.
July 3, 2025
4.5/5. This one took me a while to finish. It was a little slow but still held my attention. The last 200 pages picked up especially when Erica appeared again. I missed her for most of the book. I love her character and her connection with Jai. The ending twist was a good one and can't wait for the next book!
April 15, 2025
Thank you to the publishers for granting me an arc.
I definitely enjoyed this book more than the first one. It was great to see Jai taking charge of his own fate and destiny, though he would never have done it without the help of companions he met along the way.
Looking forward to book 3!
I definitely enjoyed this book more than the first one. It was great to see Jai taking charge of his own fate and destiny, though he would never have done it without the help of companions he met along the way.
Looking forward to book 3!
May 26, 2025
Taran Matharu writes fantastic coming of age fantasy stories. I read a lot of fantasy, and many follow the same tropes and patterns. This does as well, to some extent, but I did not see the ending coming. It's extremely refreshing to be blindsided but not in a way that feels forced.
July 17, 2025
This book was a lot slower than the first but I actually enjoyed that. I like reading about Jai's hard work and experiencing his struggles to be in a position to lead and actually help people.
Can't wait to see what happens next!
Can't wait to see what happens next!
July 20, 2025
Yeah I mean it’s a middle book in a trilogy when I hadn’t read the first. Made sense of it, standard fantasy, predictable end even when I only skimmed the last 150 pages. Will read the first book at some point.
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