Poison Tides

Blood Flowers #2

by Jay McGuiness

 
An explosive new dystopian YA series, perfect for fans
of The Hunger Games, The Atlas Six and
Leigh Bardugo.
Bear has lived in Calleston his entire life, closed in by the
walls that surround the queendom, but now he has the chance for freedom
as he traverses the great wildernesses on a small black narrowboat,
accompanied by three powerful witches.


But Bear soon discovers the witches have welcomed him on their
journey in exchange for his help to free their captive sister. Then,
Bear discovers that his best friend, Felix, is being hunted
for being a Fennex, and he must do everything in his power to save
him, even if it means leaving everything he has known behind him…
for good.


But behind Calleston’s walls sits a new ruler, the High
Lady Meya, who is ready to set right the wrongs of her cruel father.
Distracted, she is haunted by premonitions of Bear’s death.
Though she cannot save Bear in her visions, she sees herself
sitting by his side. But how can Bear and Meya be reunited with
vast distances between them? And if the premonitions are real, how
will Bear survive?


A story of love, witchcraft, betrayal and murder!



From member of internationally adored band The Wanted, Jay McGuiness,
comes his breathtaking fantasy series.
A beautifully told YA with themes of poverty, power and magic.

A powerful plot, sweeping, heartfelt romance and an iconic YA
hero in Bear.

Praise for Blood Flowers  


"This book is a heartfelt fable about inequality, community and
power, packed with memorable characters." Samantha Shannon,
author of The Bone Season 


"A richly imagined world with slow-burning romance, gripping horror
and an inventive magical system. Blood Flowers is a dazzling
debut novel." -Amy McCaw, author of Mina and the Slayers

Genres: Fantasy

432 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2025

Reviews

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Insta Book Tours.

Poison Tides is the second book in a new YA dystopian fantasy series from Jay McGuiness (of the Wanted band), and I devoured this book in two sittings.
The book picks straight up from the end of book 1 following Bear as he learns to handle his newfound magical abilities with the assistance of an old witch. Bear is helping the witches to recover the witch caged upon the queen's boat in exchange for magic training and their help in finding his old friend Felix. Bear is grieving his loss of another friend, desperate to find Felix and trying to come to terms with even more explosive secrets he discovers in this book. Meanwhile, the overlords' daughter Lady Meya is plagued by dreams about the foreseeable death of Bear. Meya longs to right the wrongs of her father before her and herself has caused and put in motion and when visitors arrive to oversee what she is doing, her own life becomes threatened.
This series is honestly breathtaking and I can't wait to get my hands on book 3 to pick it up again. Jay McGuiness has an amazing ability to weave magic, intrigue, dystopia, and so much more within these books, and each page is brought to life with descriptive scenes and well fleshed out, interesting characters. There's lots of banter in this book, too, which was a great added bonus within the story.

[Emily Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

it’s probably more a 4⭐️ but I’m biased lol

and I’m soooo excited if there’s a third in the series, I feel like that could be the best one yet !!

[Gillian Kemp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this was amazing. I may not be the target audience (according to the author writing in my copy of Blood Flowers, I am a Double Young Adult!) but I am loving this series. I enjoyed Blood Flowers but this sequel was even better. I loved the way the main characters' storylines ran adjacent, finding out more about each of them, and the characters finding out more about themselves. As you get further into the book there's revelation after revelation, and for the last few chapters I was on the edge of my seat.
Jay has really got into his writing stride and I cannot wait for Book 3.
Thoroughly recommended to anyone who likes fantasy novels - no matter what age (why should youngsters have all the fun?!).

[Nicola Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Gosh.
So. Good.

I know my love for Jay makes me slightly biased but I LOVED this. Twists and turns galore, ones I didn't see coming and gasped out loud. Such a brilliant YA fantasy novel, can't wait for book 3!

[Dammitkassi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I gave blood flowers 5 stars last year so this is done with a heavy heart. I cant even put my finger on what was wrong with it but it felt....forgettable.

[Gemma · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am starting to really enjoy this series now and I can't wait to see how this story ends! I love all of the characters especially Bear and Maggie and there were plenty more shocks in this novel as they all escape Calleston on a journey to the Free City to save the witches and their friends. The story felt a lot more put together in this 2nd book and I enjoyed the tense battles and escapes as the plot gets much more intense for all the characters.

I liked how most of the book was told from the POVs of 3 characters; Bear, Felix and Meya which enabled me to see what was going on in 3 different parts of this world as they all got into some form of trouble. I also liked how more of the book focused on magic and the witches as I got to learn more about their different powers and what they can all do.

Overall this is a strong YA series and I will be looking forward to finally reading the last one in the trilogy.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Contains spoilers for book 1*

Poison Tides picks straight up from the end of Blood Flowers. We continue to follow Bear after his escape from Calleston with the witches, the whip and Petal. As they travel towards Scarmont in pursuit of the Queen's fleet and hopes of rescuing the caged witch and finding Felix, we see Bear learn to develop his magic with the aid of the witches.

We also continue with Meya's POV after she killed her father and is now Lady of Calleston. As she tries to navigate ruling the town, while trying to share resources more fairly to help the Cobblesiders, she has to play host to a party from Scarmont whose intentions are unclear.

This book has the very welcome addition of POV chapters from Felix. We catch up to him in Scarmont where he is being ruthlessly hunted by Fennix hunters. I absolutely loved getting to hear from Felix in this book, his chapters were easily some of my favourites.

The book on the whole followed a similar tone to the first book with good pacing and lots of action. The 3 different POVs were well done and linked together nicely. I thought the ending was fantastic, I had no idea what was going to happen, there were so many twists I wasn't expecting, especially when they finally were able to free the caged witch, didn't see that one coming at all!! Very well done follow up book and I'm definitely going to be continuing this series to see what happens next.

[Jessica Juby | jesshidesinbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to be part of the Insta Book Tours tour of this book - Scholastic sent me a copy of books one and two in exchange for an honest review.

I was also incredibly fortunate that Jay's book tour came to my local Waterstones so I was able to pop along to hear him talk about his inspirations for the series. Katherine Webber was a fab interviewer and the conversation flowed so well.

I thoroughly enjoyed hearing his thoughts on witchcraft and how the connection to nature and growth inspired the use of magic within the series. He also spoke about his family and how they've influenced characters in the book, and his love of fantasy fiction from YA through to adult.

The extended communities, large families, and role models Jay has in both books play a huge part in shaping the main character, and the love and respect they share for each other is clear on the page.

Poison Tides kept up the pace with twists, action and reveals and had me AGAIN with tears in my eyes.

I loved the relationship Maggie and Bear developed, and seeing Meya's character evolve. There's so much potential here and I'm really excited to see where book 3 goes.

I HAD to ask Jay whether Percy is safe, and let me tell you, I'm not okay with that "yet" in my dedication after "The dog doesn't die".

The found family is strong with this series and it's packed with a lot of heart to fight the darkness that's inching closer. Enjoyed every page and I'm 100% down for the ride of book 3 🤩

[Suzannesbooks25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book carries straight on from the first book Blood Flowers. It follows the POV of Maya, Felix and of course the main man Bear.

It was refreshing to read the POV of Felix who is being hunted by Fennex hunters. He uses his magic more in this book and I felt drawn to him a lot. I was rooting for him from the start. Felix is one of my favorite characters along side bear and I found myself looking forward to his chapters.

Mayas POV followed her after the death of her father, her then becoming high lady. She realizes she also has powers. She has visitors who suspect she may be hiding something and plan on listening to her while she’s sleeping. She escapes with help. Maya is likeable and I’m interested to see where her story goes from here.

Then we have Bears POV. He escapes with the 3 witches, the whip and pearl on the small black boat. He explores his magic more with help from the witches. He is convinced he seen Felix while practicing flying. So now he is desperate to find him.

I love a POV book following the characters and getting to know them better. The finale at the end had me hooked. The author wrote this book very well and the story just seemed to flow. There was lots of action going on all of the time, but even though this was the case the author did nt loose any steam, It just kept going. I’m impressed Jay McGuiness.

I rated this 5 stars because sometimes I actually felt like I was there. The world building and story was en pointe. I was gifted a copy from Scholastic to read. Thank you! Looking forward to Book 3.

[Nicola Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy a fast-paced, exciting fantasy that will keep you on the edge of your seat through each chapter, then this is the book for you! Poison Tides picks up the story straight from the end of Blood Flowers. We follow along as Bear, Felix and Meya traverse their own paths after the fallout in Calleston. Each has their own journey, personal and literal, to undertake as they learn more about themselves and the world they inhabit. Beyond the walls of Calleston we find ourselves sailing towards Scarmont and beyond to the Free City. Jay’s wonderfully descriptive writing (and self-drawn map) help you immerse yourself in this world and feel as if you are a part of each characters journey. You will laugh, you will cry and you will not want to put this down! (Sorry, no spoilers from me!)
This second book is an excellent follow on from Jay’s debut novel Blood Flowers and is a real testament to his love of fantasy. He has created characters you will feel endeared to, willing them to overcome challenges or peril, as well as some characters you hope don’t get a happy ending! As much as I am looking forward to the concluding part of Book 3, it will also be sad to leave the characters and this world behind.
Jay has really found his joy in writing and his confidence shines through in this clever, suspenseful and magical story. This is an enthralling book for any lovers of fantasy.

[Martin Belcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Blood Flowers series. Bear having discovered his magical powers, has escaped the city of Calleston along with a Watchman, three witches and Petal, they are all squeezed onto a black narrow boat sailing down the great river towards Scarmont and Cut Mountain. Meanwhile, Felix (Bear’s best friend) a Fennex (a magical person) who has also escaped Calleston has made it to Scarmont and despite the disguises, has been discovered and hunted by the residents who hate Fennex.

Back in Calleston, Meya, the now Lady of the City after the death of her father, is coming to terms with the brutal slaughter after the Blots got into the city gate, and is desperately trying to appease Lady Florence, the leader of Scarmont city, who is on a visit to Calleston to try to unmask Meya’s magical talents, and remove her from her position.

Can Felix reunite with Bear? Can they catch up with the Queen’s boat? Can Meya fool Lady Florence, saving herself & Calleston, and could it be possible that Bear’s Mother is actually alive?

A fantastic second book, even better than the first, a real addictive page turner, multi faceted characters and world building that is realistic and beautiful. I can’t wait for the next book! Thanks Jay!

[Katie Holbeche · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poison Tides builds beautifully on the world created in Jay's debut novel, Blood Flowers. You can tell how much love Jay has for his characters, and he's able to endear them to the reader with ease. The switching of perspectives and journeys amongst the protagonists makes for a gripping read; I found the pace of this sequel compelling.

I've seen a lot mentioned about the found family element of both of Jay's books, but this is particularly evident in Poison Tides. Bear, Felix and Meya all have to create alliances and find common ground with new people, and that allows new relationship dynamics to fuel more action (and in my mind, more theories about how the trilogy will conclude!)

I loved the poetry featured in Poison Tides - the language and lyricism of this sequel is really wonderful.

The suspenseful, captivating ending has set the reader up for a rollercoaster ride in Book 3 - there are so many ways it could go! But however the story ends, the residents of Calleston, Scarmont and beyond are in good hands.

If you're looking for a new set of books written by a true admirer of fantasy fiction, look no further than Blood Flowers and Poison Tides.

[Lawren · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

This is the second book in the Blood Flowers series, a YA dystopian fantasy set in the walled town of Calleston, where there is a distinct divide between the rich and poor.

Poison Tides explores the world outside of Calleston and sees Bear, Felix and Meya set out on adventures of their own. I enjoyed Poison Tides a lot and while some second books suffer from second book syndrome, this certainly didn't. I found it was paced really well and had a lot of action from start to finish.

Jay's writing is extremely palatable and the characters are so loveable. Bear is a little bit a softer protagonist than I'm used to but that did not hinder my enjoyment. I think my favourite character had to be Maggie though, I love a little old lady. 👵🏼

That ending has me very excited to pick up the next book to see what happens next and how everything comes to an end.

Thank you to @netgalley and @scholastic_uk for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Ash_reads24 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars ⭐️
Omg! Firstly I will touch up on blood flowers

What an actual action packed debut novel from jay mcguiness! Wow 🤯 now this is the kinda YA fantasy books I loved to read.

Witchcraft plays a big part in the story and this I found interesting and intriguing. Just can’t beat a YA fantasy book honestly amazing debut novel!

Poison tides
4.5 stars ⭐️

I love that this picks up from where we were left with blood flowers, continuing following Bears escape. I enjoyed the mutiple POVs from Meya and Felix. The pacing and ending? Well done for a book 2 twists and turns! And let’s just say I didn’t see the ending coming! Honestly such a great book/series. Jay has really created such a great cast of fantasy based characters!

If action packed magic and witches are your thing I highly recommend reading poison tides 🌊💙

[Marja · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very curious to read the sequel to Blood Flowers and can’t wait for book three now.

I listened to a few tv interviews with the author and have to say I’m one of those Tolkien, Terry Goodman, Robert Jordan nerds. My library is full of fantasy.

I tend to read what the generations in my family grew and grow up with so I read the Harry Potter series back in the days, the Hunger Games, the Folk of Air series, and currently Fourth Wing is on my reading table because a young member of my family told me to read it. I’m telling her to read Blood Flowers and Poison Tides now and bought her both books. 😊

Tbh this series has the potential to be better than the Hunger Games. After book 2 definitely Netflix material.

[Szandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks so much for Insta Book Tours and the publisher for the ARC opportunity. As always, this is an honest, voluntary review.

This picks up right where book one left off. I liked the multiple POV and how it gave a nice pace to the story. Regardless, I felt a little bit like this was slightly slower than the first book. I really liked Blood Flowers so it was tough to follow up and whilst I wouldn't say I liked this the same, Poison Tides was still a very enjoyable read. The author has such great way to make me love all their characters. Needless to say, I'll be here for the next book, waiting on the edge of my seat.

[Heather Booth · Rating 4 out of 5]

blood flowers was good, but I LOVED poison tides.

the writing in this book felt a lot more confident, like jay had fully leaned into his abilities as an author, and it made poison tides unputdownable! the pacing was fantastic, I never got bored as we switched from one subplot to another and everything moved the story along nicely. I came out of this book feeling like I knew the characters a lot more and I’m so genuinely invested in all of them (tears were shed, thanks jay)

highly recommend diving into this world and staying for the ride 🥰

[Maddison Glover · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Although I didn’t enjoy this as much as the first one (it felt a bit slower with jumping between different POVs) I still adored it. I just love the characters and the world we’re building, I really managed to build a better odea of the world in this book, and I loved the more political elements. The twists at the end! *chefs kiss*

This whole story came together perfectly at the end and I hope we get another book because I can’t wait to see where the author is going to take it!

[Ciara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poison tides is a fantastic sequel to Blood flowers.

The expansion of the world built in book one as the protagonist experiences life outside calleston feels like leaving home for the first time all over again.

A plot full of twist and turns with endless possibilities for what could happen next!

Very hard to put down cannot wait for book 3

[Liz · Rating 2 out of 5]

I say this with a heavy heart as I loved the first book, but I couldn’t get through this at all. Nothing happened. We spend the entire book following Bear on a boat, Felix trying to escape from his pursuers, and Meya … trying to avoid falling asleep? That’s it. Nothing else happens. This book could have been an email.

[Beki W · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up for the app.

I loved the first book so for me it was a tough one to follow. While I still enjoyed the story, it didn't quite pack the same punch as book one- Blood Flowers.

I still enjoyed the read and I feel like it was a very good set up for the final book in the series. I still adored the friendships made and the action was still great! Emotional trauma did happen and I'm not sure I'll recover from that haha.

Still a great read and the end leaves you wanting the next book asap!!!

[Sam (FallingBooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The pace, action and angst build up in this sequel to Blood Flowers. Enjoyed the quick continuation after the first book and how all of our characters are in very difficult positions. More twists, more development to the world and magic systems. I can't wait for book 3!

[Erika LG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bear has lived in Calleston his entire life, closed in by the walls that surround the queendom, but now he has the chance for freedom as he traverses the great wildernesses on a small black narrowboat, accompanied by three powerful witches.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a lifelong fan of The Wanted I was always going to love this series but wow! What an amazing sequel, I couldn’t stop reading this. I can’t wait to read the next book, Jay McGuiness is there anything you can’t do?

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and didn't want to put it down. I can't wait for the next one.

[Lucy Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sound follow up to Blood Flowers. The plot twists and cliffhangers at the end really made this book; I would've liked the rest of the book to have a faster pace. However, I enjoyed finding out more about the characters and following them on their individual adventures. I am intrigued to see where the story goes next!

[Jules Klingman · Rating 4 out of 5]

unbelievable ending.

[Polly T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second book in trilogy by talented author,Jay McGuiness. This novel continues on from.Blood Flowers (Book 1) with the journeys of Bear, Meya & Felix. We meet new characters & witches along their journey havibg left Calleston at end of Blood Flowers. The blots are still there threatening those unlucky to encounter them .
I was hooked from page 1 and was definitely left wanting more (a lot more) at the end.
Can't wait for Book 3 to find out what happened next

[Toni Geens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man, the second half was just twist after twist. So much I didn't see coming! I really do love Bear and his friends - they're real and relatable and so endearing. Little trickles of comedy find their way in amongst the dark storylines as a breath of fresh air, then it hits you with an emotional sucker punch. I'm not okay. Gimme book three!