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Inkbound #2
Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Shadow Compass
Return to the world of Indie Next Pick
Inkbound
in this exciting sequel that finds Meticulous ""Metty"" Jones in a race against time to save her family from a mysterious blackmailer. Perfect for fans of
Nevermoor
and
The Swifts
.
Meticulous Jones knows the power of her name. Descended from the great Joneses, including the cofounder of New London, Majestic Jones, Metty also inherited the abilities that give them power over life and death.
When she is recruited to enlist in the mysterious League of Shadows, a secret society for others with impressive abilities, she’s hesitant. After all, why should she join another group that seemingly wants to use her for her powers, especially after her Aunt Mag all but forbids her? Then a blackmailer threatens to reveal Aunt Mag’s most dangerous secret—related to her adopted charge, Sundar—and Metty sees the League as her only chance to save him. She becomes determined to complete the three initiation tasks required to join in order to gain their protection.
But as the clock winds down, Metty is forced to come to terms with the consequences of magic and the limits of her powers.
Meticulous Jones knows the power of her name. Descended from the great Joneses, including the cofounder of New London, Majestic Jones, Metty also inherited the abilities that give them power over life and death.
When she is recruited to enlist in the mysterious League of Shadows, a secret society for others with impressive abilities, she’s hesitant. After all, why should she join another group that seemingly wants to use her for her powers, especially after her Aunt Mag all but forbids her? Then a blackmailer threatens to reveal Aunt Mag’s most dangerous secret—related to her adopted charge, Sundar—and Metty sees the League as her only chance to save him. She becomes determined to complete the three initiation tasks required to join in order to gain their protection.
But as the clock winds down, Metty is forced to come to terms with the consequences of magic and the limits of her powers.
Audible Audio
Published January 6, 2026
3 people are currently reading
3028 people want to read
About the author
Philippa Leathley
5 books39 followersPhilippa Leathley grew up in East Yorkshire, spending summers near London with her eccentric grandparents and writing feverishly as soon as she could hold a pen. When not writing, she enjoys learning new languages, studying anything from historical fashion to shipwrecks, and is passionate about protecting the environment. She currently lives just outside Hull with her family and three weird and wonderful rescue cats, Bram, Lyra and Theo the Brave.
Her debut children’s book, INKBOUND: METICULOUS JONES AND THE SKULL TATTOO, is due to be published by HarperCollins 30th January 2025 in the UK and 28th January in the US. She’s represented by Hannah Sheppard at HS-LA.
Her debut children’s book, INKBOUND: METICULOUS JONES AND THE SKULL TATTOO, is due to be published by HarperCollins 30th January 2025 in the UK and 28th January in the US. She’s represented by Hannah Sheppard at HS-LA.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
September 18, 2025
YAY! We’re back off to New London! If you think I didn’t audibly cheer when I received this proof, you’d be mistaken because I have been desperate to leap back into this world and see where Metty’s journey takes her next after the adventures of Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo. One of my absolute favourite releases of the year, I was in such anticipation of what the sequel might deliver and it’s safe to say it delivered everything I needed it to… AND MORE!
Metty, Sundar, Faith, and all our favourite Jones family are back for the sequel, though with the deepening of the family history and their ties to the magical foundations of New London, we’re introduced to new members and family friends that make this ever-growing cast feel evermore so complete. Naturally as we grow up, our worlds expand and this is definitely what’s happening to Metty in this book, and her reactions to this are exactly what we need from a protagonist; cautious, protective, caring, and most importantly, fuelled by wanting to do the right thing.
With twists and turns that cover a whole host of emotions, The Shadow Compass is certainly another shining star of a middle-grade novel. Side note: I cried at SEVERAL points in the book – though I won’t let you know if those tears were happy, angry, or sad. With large cinematic moments contrasted with those finer, human moments, Philippa Leathley has continued to give us a masterclass in world-building whilst keeping a story character focused. Even in those larger, big scale moments, we’re still adamant why Metty’s there and, whilst we may not agree that it’s the best cause of action, it allows us to continue to root for her throughout!
There’s one character arc that I’m incredibly fascinated by in this novel, and it’s not necessarily someone who plays a large role in the alpha plot, but I wouldn’t want to give too much away so it is something I may come back to after release. That being said, the subplots of this novel are as fruitful as their leader, with me oftentimes wondering where those characters might go off in their own worlds and what they do in their spare time in New London. Yet another sign of genius storytelling from Philippa Leathley.
Without going into spoiler territory, it’s hard to give the detail I would love to give, so I will end this review on this note. YOU MUST READ THIS SERIES. Every now and again a series comes along that is so special, so packed with possibilities, that I want to buy everyone I know a copy and demand they read it. Inkbound is one of those series and I truly do hope it continues because I have so many more questions, and I’m nowhere near ready to contemplate a world where I don’t get to return to New London.
A PHENOMENAL read for anyone aged 9+, and especially any lovers of Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo (which is Waterstones’ Children’s Book of the Month at time of posting), I insist you go and preorder a copy asap, and if you haven’t, get your hands on the first book. Now, while you head off to do that, I’m off to check the sky for any floating cities…
Metty, Sundar, Faith, and all our favourite Jones family are back for the sequel, though with the deepening of the family history and their ties to the magical foundations of New London, we’re introduced to new members and family friends that make this ever-growing cast feel evermore so complete. Naturally as we grow up, our worlds expand and this is definitely what’s happening to Metty in this book, and her reactions to this are exactly what we need from a protagonist; cautious, protective, caring, and most importantly, fuelled by wanting to do the right thing.
With twists and turns that cover a whole host of emotions, The Shadow Compass is certainly another shining star of a middle-grade novel. Side note: I cried at SEVERAL points in the book – though I won’t let you know if those tears were happy, angry, or sad. With large cinematic moments contrasted with those finer, human moments, Philippa Leathley has continued to give us a masterclass in world-building whilst keeping a story character focused. Even in those larger, big scale moments, we’re still adamant why Metty’s there and, whilst we may not agree that it’s the best cause of action, it allows us to continue to root for her throughout!
There’s one character arc that I’m incredibly fascinated by in this novel, and it’s not necessarily someone who plays a large role in the alpha plot, but I wouldn’t want to give too much away so it is something I may come back to after release. That being said, the subplots of this novel are as fruitful as their leader, with me oftentimes wondering where those characters might go off in their own worlds and what they do in their spare time in New London. Yet another sign of genius storytelling from Philippa Leathley.
Without going into spoiler territory, it’s hard to give the detail I would love to give, so I will end this review on this note. YOU MUST READ THIS SERIES. Every now and again a series comes along that is so special, so packed with possibilities, that I want to buy everyone I know a copy and demand they read it. Inkbound is one of those series and I truly do hope it continues because I have so many more questions, and I’m nowhere near ready to contemplate a world where I don’t get to return to New London.
A PHENOMENAL read for anyone aged 9+, and especially any lovers of Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo (which is Waterstones’ Children’s Book of the Month at time of posting), I insist you go and preorder a copy asap, and if you haven’t, get your hands on the first book. Now, while you head off to do that, I’m off to check the sky for any floating cities…
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Even as the second book in the series, this story stands confidently on its own—you don’t need to read the first installment to fully follow or enjoy it. From the very first pages, it’s easy to slip into this richly imagined magical world and become deeply invested in its characters.
Meticulous Jones is a compelling protagonist who understands the weight and power of her name. As a descendant of the legendary Jones family, including Majestic Jones, cofounder of New London, Metty has inherited extraordinary abilities that grant influence over life and death. That legacy is both a gift and a burden, and the story explores it beautifully.
When Metty is recruited by the mysterious League of Shadows—a secret society of people with remarkable powers—her hesitation feels well earned. Having already been used for her abilities, and with her Aunt Mag strongly opposed, joining the League is far from an easy choice. But when a blackmailer threatens to expose a devastating secret tied to Aunt Mag’s adopted son, Sundar, Metty sees no other option. To protect him, she must complete three dangerous initiation tasks before time runs out.
As the stakes rise, the novel thoughtfully examines the consequences of magic and the limits of power, forcing Metty to confront what she can—and cannot—control. This is a captivating, emotionally grounded fantasy with strong worldbuilding and a heroine who is impossible not to root for. Highly recommended.
Even as the second book in the series, this story stands confidently on its own—you don’t need to read the first installment to fully follow or enjoy it. From the very first pages, it’s easy to slip into this richly imagined magical world and become deeply invested in its characters.
Meticulous Jones is a compelling protagonist who understands the weight and power of her name. As a descendant of the legendary Jones family, including Majestic Jones, cofounder of New London, Metty has inherited extraordinary abilities that grant influence over life and death. That legacy is both a gift and a burden, and the story explores it beautifully.
When Metty is recruited by the mysterious League of Shadows—a secret society of people with remarkable powers—her hesitation feels well earned. Having already been used for her abilities, and with her Aunt Mag strongly opposed, joining the League is far from an easy choice. But when a blackmailer threatens to expose a devastating secret tied to Aunt Mag’s adopted son, Sundar, Metty sees no other option. To protect him, she must complete three dangerous initiation tasks before time runs out.
As the stakes rise, the novel thoughtfully examines the consequences of magic and the limits of power, forcing Metty to confront what she can—and cannot—control. This is a captivating, emotionally grounded fantasy with strong worldbuilding and a heroine who is impossible not to root for. Highly recommended.
October 18, 2025
Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Shadow Compass
Content Guide:
🤬No foul language.
🌶️ No sexual content.
🗡️ Some magical violence. No blood or serious injuries.
🍺 No substance use.
I read the first book in this series and loved it, so I was so excited to get a digital copy of the sequel!
Meticulous Jones, a.k.a. Metty, is determined, stubborn, and not at all meticulous. I enjoyed her growth throughout the book, especially that she learns not to trust everyone.
I didn’t want to put this book down! It was funny, interesting, magical, and a bit suspenseful. The pacing was great. This book is awesome and if you liked the first one, then you should definitely read this one!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the free ebook in exchange for my honest review.
-Eden, 8 years old.
Content Guide:
🤬No foul language.
🌶️ No sexual content.
🗡️ Some magical violence. No blood or serious injuries.
🍺 No substance use.
I read the first book in this series and loved it, so I was so excited to get a digital copy of the sequel!
Meticulous Jones, a.k.a. Metty, is determined, stubborn, and not at all meticulous. I enjoyed her growth throughout the book, especially that she learns not to trust everyone.
I didn’t want to put this book down! It was funny, interesting, magical, and a bit suspenseful. The pacing was great. This book is awesome and if you liked the first one, then you should definitely read this one!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the free ebook in exchange for my honest review.
-Eden, 8 years old.
January 14, 2026
Meticulous Jones and the Shadow Compass builds confidently on the foundations of the first book, delivering a faster-paced, higher-stakes adventure that deepens both its worldbuilding and emotional core. Metty remains a compelling heroine, torn between loyalty, fear, and the heavy consequences of her inherited power, while the introduction of the League of Shadows adds intrigue and moral complexity to the story. The initiation trials are inventive and suspenseful, and the ticking-clock threat to her family gives the narrative real momentum, even if a few plot turns feel slightly convenient. Overall, this sequel is thoughtful, imaginative, and emotionally resonant, rewarding readers with a richer exploration of power, choice, and responsibility.
January 8, 2026
I have to be honest; I worried a little bit when this book was getting started and we weren’t seeing the same types of villains from the first book that book 2 wasn’t going to be as good. Well, I never should have doubted Philipa and for that I apologize.
I loved returning to New London and adventuring around this magical city with Metty Jones and her family and friends! Philipa has created such an incredible world with such unique magic. It draws me in and I never want to leave! And she also has these subtle little thoughts that really make you pause and think. Beautiful, powerful, and such imaginative writing.
I loved returning to New London and adventuring around this magical city with Metty Jones and her family and friends! Philipa has created such an incredible world with such unique magic. It draws me in and I never want to leave! And she also has these subtle little thoughts that really make you pause and think. Beautiful, powerful, and such imaginative writing.
December 30, 2025
Thank you HarperAudio Children’s, Storytide, and NetGalley for the advanced electronic audio review copy of this book. This is the next instalment of the Meticulous Jones series and it is just as wonderful as the previous volume has been. Here, Metty and friends are on yet another adventure to save New London. Great pacing, world building, and character development. It was an interesting, funny, and magical read and I’m looking forward to the next instalment.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews