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Time Keys #2
The Legend of Viking Thunder
The Legend of Viking Thunder is the second thrilling adventure in the Time Keys series by M. G. Leonard.
- GenresMiddle Grade
Paperback
11 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
M.G. Leonard
57 books315 followersM. G. Leonard is a writer of books, poems and screenplays. She has a first-class honours degree in English literature and an MA in Shakespeare Studies from Kings College London. She works as a freelance Digital Media Producer for clients such as the National Theatre, and Harry Potter West End, and previously worked as a Senior Digital Producer at the National Theatre, the Royal Opera House and Shakespeare’s Globe. She spent her early career in the music industry running Setanta Records, an independent record label, and managing bands, most notably The Divine Comedy. After leaving the music industry, she trained as an actor, dabbling in directing and producing as well as performing, before deciding to write her stories down. Maya lives in Brighton with her husband and two sons.
You can visit her online at www.mgleonard.com. Follow her on Twitter @MGLnrd.
You can visit her online at www.mgleonard.com. Follow her on Twitter @MGLnrd.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 4, 2025
4.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Books for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I loved the first book in this series - Hunt For the Golden Scarab. This can be read as a standalone but I think you'll probably get the most out of it if you've read the first one.
Whilst the first one is set in Ancient Egypt, this one is set in Viking times. Which is completely different; Leonard has managed to freshen it up, give us something new but always pushing th boundaries and giving the story a new lease of life.
We've got the characters we met in the first one that are instantly familiar, but then we get introduced to new players who are equally as interesting to read about, even if they're not always nice.
I think I liked the first one a smidgen more but that's because I'm more fascinated in Ancient Egypt than I am Vikings, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
As with the first one, I think it would really start an interest in younger readers. History can get quite dry, but by introducing them to it through a medium like this, it can peak an interest going ward.
This is only book two but she has shown her talent in writing age-appropriate but exciting mystery stories. The next one is out early 2026 and is called The Impossible Gladiator, and I am hoping she makes it a longer series.
Its fun and fast paced, tense and emotional, exciting and hopeful. And just really enjoyable.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Books for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I loved the first book in this series - Hunt For the Golden Scarab. This can be read as a standalone but I think you'll probably get the most out of it if you've read the first one.
Whilst the first one is set in Ancient Egypt, this one is set in Viking times. Which is completely different; Leonard has managed to freshen it up, give us something new but always pushing th boundaries and giving the story a new lease of life.
We've got the characters we met in the first one that are instantly familiar, but then we get introduced to new players who are equally as interesting to read about, even if they're not always nice.
I think I liked the first one a smidgen more but that's because I'm more fascinated in Ancient Egypt than I am Vikings, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
As with the first one, I think it would really start an interest in younger readers. History can get quite dry, but by introducing them to it through a medium like this, it can peak an interest going ward.
This is only book two but she has shown her talent in writing age-appropriate but exciting mystery stories. The next one is out early 2026 and is called The Impossible Gladiator, and I am hoping she makes it a longer series.
Its fun and fast paced, tense and emotional, exciting and hopeful. And just really enjoyable.
October 8, 2025
I love M.G. Leonard's books and this was no exception. I felt this was more engaging than the first in this series (although I enjoyed that one too). The characters are all well developed and you are starting to get a real feel for the relationships both amongst the heroes and villains. The story was great and had a nice mix of history and adventure that works really well. I liked the plot reveals, each adding depth to the story and making me want to know what will come next. the narrator in this was excellent and got the pitch and tone right throughout. Very enjoyable.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the audiobook in return for an honest review.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the audiobook in return for an honest review.
August 24, 2025
An exciting adventure story that will hopefully inspire young readers to learn more about the Vikings.
The events of this book take place almost immediately after those of Hunt for the Golden Scarab. To get the most out of this story, I would definitely recommend reading that first as it will give you a better understanding of the characters and events. Jeopardy's father, Emmett, is still missing after abandoning her and her Auntie Calli and cousin Sim in Egypt. Is he working with the sinister Council of Keys, trying to protect his family, or just looking out for himself? He is getting perilously close to the age at which he will lose the ability to hear the frequencies to open time doors and every trip could be his last.
Jeopardy discovers Emmett's interest in Vikings and the legendary Gjallarhorn and they decide they can use that to track him down. Once reunited, Jeopardy is also gripped by the power and story of the Gjallarhorn and agrees to go through one of the two remaining doors to Viking times to find it, with Sim going along too. Unfortunately, the Council are hot on their trail and Jeopardy and Sim will need all their skill and wits, and those of their new friends, to escape them.
I think the intended audience will find this story more believable than I did and the more enjoyable for it. There is action and adventure and the children are the stars as the adults are generally in the background and (mostly) hopeless. Emmett in particular is frustratingly troublesome. I do wonder how he has survived so long if he always travels into the past so unprepared.
There were a few plot points that didn't seem believable to me but I think children would accept such things much more readily in a story. I am still a little confused about what exactly is going on with Calli, Sim and a certain Council member but I suspect it may be intended as a set up for events in future books.
Overall it is a fun read that transports you into the past and will hopefully encourage readers to learn more about history and the Vikings as well a desire to travel and explore.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Book for the free eARC.
The events of this book take place almost immediately after those of Hunt for the Golden Scarab. To get the most out of this story, I would definitely recommend reading that first as it will give you a better understanding of the characters and events. Jeopardy's father, Emmett, is still missing after abandoning her and her Auntie Calli and cousin Sim in Egypt. Is he working with the sinister Council of Keys, trying to protect his family, or just looking out for himself? He is getting perilously close to the age at which he will lose the ability to hear the frequencies to open time doors and every trip could be his last.
Jeopardy discovers Emmett's interest in Vikings and the legendary Gjallarhorn and they decide they can use that to track him down. Once reunited, Jeopardy is also gripped by the power and story of the Gjallarhorn and agrees to go through one of the two remaining doors to Viking times to find it, with Sim going along too. Unfortunately, the Council are hot on their trail and Jeopardy and Sim will need all their skill and wits, and those of their new friends, to escape them.
I think the intended audience will find this story more believable than I did and the more enjoyable for it. There is action and adventure and the children are the stars as the adults are generally in the background and (mostly) hopeless. Emmett in particular is frustratingly troublesome. I do wonder how he has survived so long if he always travels into the past so unprepared.
There were a few plot points that didn't seem believable to me but I think children would accept such things much more readily in a story. I am still a little confused about what exactly is going on with Calli, Sim and a certain Council member but I suspect it may be intended as a set up for events in future books.
Overall it is a fun read that transports you into the past and will hopefully encourage readers to learn more about history and the Vikings as well a desire to travel and explore.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Book for the free eARC.
September 1, 2025
To open this review, I think it’s key to call out M.G. Leonard’s meticulous ability to weave a history lesson into a novel. Both Time Keys books now have taught me, a grown person with a Masters degree in Literature and History, a LOT of things I didn’t know. First about Ancient Egypt and now the Vikings, I ADORE the combination of history and music and how engrossing a concept this is for this series. Honestly, long may the Time Keys series continue.
Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson have beautiful character arcs in this novel. With a series that’s as incredibly conceptual as this one, there’s always the potential in a sequel for the characters to stagnate and repeat the same adventure in different fonts (or in this case different times) but Time Keys: The Legend of Viking Thunder delivers! As much as I love Sim, Jeopardy’s story took me the most in this novel. She really is a force to be reckoned with and any Jeopardy fans out there will be ecstatic with her plot line.
In true sequel form, the novel is pushing the series forwards. Left with the mystery of the Council of Keys from Time Keys: Hunt for the Golden Scarab, I NEEDED more information on them and boy, does M.G. Leonard deliver. I am so invested in uncovering this organisation that I am already in anticipation of the third novel in the series. Alongside this is the question of Sim’s abilities and why he can travel using a pitchfork. These strands are all woven through this book and lay the groundwork for stakes being heightened as the series progresses.
M.G. Leonard’s writing style is wondrous and so magnificent engaging, I read The Legend of Viking Thunder in one sitting. With sentence structure that practically bounces you from one sentence to the next and pacing that prioritises activity, this is one I can envision young readers getting so engrossed in they forget that time’s passing by!
The perfect back to school read for any readers aged 8+, Time Keys: The Legend of Viking Thunder is one to make sure you get preordering asap to ensure you don’t miss out. And while you do that, I’m going off to daydream about Book 3…
Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson have beautiful character arcs in this novel. With a series that’s as incredibly conceptual as this one, there’s always the potential in a sequel for the characters to stagnate and repeat the same adventure in different fonts (or in this case different times) but Time Keys: The Legend of Viking Thunder delivers! As much as I love Sim, Jeopardy’s story took me the most in this novel. She really is a force to be reckoned with and any Jeopardy fans out there will be ecstatic with her plot line.
In true sequel form, the novel is pushing the series forwards. Left with the mystery of the Council of Keys from Time Keys: Hunt for the Golden Scarab, I NEEDED more information on them and boy, does M.G. Leonard deliver. I am so invested in uncovering this organisation that I am already in anticipation of the third novel in the series. Alongside this is the question of Sim’s abilities and why he can travel using a pitchfork. These strands are all woven through this book and lay the groundwork for stakes being heightened as the series progresses.
M.G. Leonard’s writing style is wondrous and so magnificent engaging, I read The Legend of Viking Thunder in one sitting. With sentence structure that practically bounces you from one sentence to the next and pacing that prioritises activity, this is one I can envision young readers getting so engrossed in they forget that time’s passing by!
The perfect back to school read for any readers aged 8+, Time Keys: The Legend of Viking Thunder is one to make sure you get preordering asap to ensure you don’t miss out. And while you do that, I’m going off to daydream about Book 3…
October 7, 2025
I was instantly drawn to this book because I absolutely love all things viking - plus the cover image looked intriguing and exciting.
I soon discovered that this was actually the second book in The Time Keys series and sadly, this was only the first book I'd read in this series and I think, by this author too.
Even so, there was a really good introduction to the whole world and magic system as well as a little information about the previous adventure.
Not too much if you've read that book already, but enough for me to be up to speed with what was going on and why, in this new adventure.
We follow Sim and his friends through the time key door to ancient Viking Norway in search of the legendary Gjallerhorn and boy do they pack a lot into this adventure.
I loved meeting the Vikings and seeing the children interact together.
We heard stories about myths and legends throughout which were deftly woven within the storyline.
I never really got on with history at school, so it's great to see these historical elements within such an exciting read, making sure that they will stick with you long after reading.
The writing style is perfect to capture the interest of its intended audience, but I have to admit that even though I'm way beyond that stage, I found this myself hooked from start to finish and devoured this in one sitting.
The short chapters were perfect for younger readers who could spread this over a longer period and not lose momentum at all.
A great read that's tempted me to go back to the first book to catch up and I'm already looking forward to seeing where the gang lead us in the next book.
I soon discovered that this was actually the second book in The Time Keys series and sadly, this was only the first book I'd read in this series and I think, by this author too.
Even so, there was a really good introduction to the whole world and magic system as well as a little information about the previous adventure.
Not too much if you've read that book already, but enough for me to be up to speed with what was going on and why, in this new adventure.
We follow Sim and his friends through the time key door to ancient Viking Norway in search of the legendary Gjallerhorn and boy do they pack a lot into this adventure.
I loved meeting the Vikings and seeing the children interact together.
We heard stories about myths and legends throughout which were deftly woven within the storyline.
I never really got on with history at school, so it's great to see these historical elements within such an exciting read, making sure that they will stick with you long after reading.
The writing style is perfect to capture the interest of its intended audience, but I have to admit that even though I'm way beyond that stage, I found this myself hooked from start to finish and devoured this in one sitting.
The short chapters were perfect for younger readers who could spread this over a longer period and not lose momentum at all.
A great read that's tempted me to go back to the first book to catch up and I'm already looking forward to seeing where the gang lead us in the next book.
August 13, 2025
There's only one thing wrong with this book....I couldn't put it down! Requested immediately it came up, so looking forward to it.
This is book 2 in the Time Keys series. Sim and Jeopardy are Time Keys, they can travel back in time through special doors which open with music. In book 1 they went to Egypt in search of the Golden Scarab. But Jeopardy's Dad Emmett disappeared while they were there. And he isn't back in London where they have now returned to.
Jeopardy is in her father's bedroom - it's always been out of bounds - she thinks there must be a time door. Sim listens carefully and as always when a door is present he feels ill. They find it a trapdoor and under it is a desk, with an Atlas of Time Doors and lots of information about a Viking horn. When they tell Calli, Sim's mum, she says she knew there was a trapdoor but it doesn't go anywhere. She is more interested in the atlas and says Emmett was always obsessed with teh legend of the Gjallarhorn, but that it was just a Norse Myth. The Gjallarhorn it turn out would herald teh end of the world, Ragnarök.
However, it doesn't take Calli long to realise that they have to go back to find Emmett if this is what he is looking for. But there are only two time doors to Viking times, and it is a very dangerous time.
A new adventure, new friends and old enemies await them in Viking times.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's book for allowing me to read this copy.
This is book 2 in the Time Keys series. Sim and Jeopardy are Time Keys, they can travel back in time through special doors which open with music. In book 1 they went to Egypt in search of the Golden Scarab. But Jeopardy's Dad Emmett disappeared while they were there. And he isn't back in London where they have now returned to.
Jeopardy is in her father's bedroom - it's always been out of bounds - she thinks there must be a time door. Sim listens carefully and as always when a door is present he feels ill. They find it a trapdoor and under it is a desk, with an Atlas of Time Doors and lots of information about a Viking horn. When they tell Calli, Sim's mum, she says she knew there was a trapdoor but it doesn't go anywhere. She is more interested in the atlas and says Emmett was always obsessed with teh legend of the Gjallarhorn, but that it was just a Norse Myth. The Gjallarhorn it turn out would herald teh end of the world, Ragnarök.
However, it doesn't take Calli long to realise that they have to go back to find Emmett if this is what he is looking for. But there are only two time doors to Viking times, and it is a very dangerous time.
A new adventure, new friends and old enemies await them in Viking times.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's book for allowing me to read this copy.
September 10, 2025
I received an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
THE LEGEND OF VIKING THUNDER is a fun second instalment that looks at myths through their life and impact rather than story themselves.
This weaves Norse mythology in a fun way, bringing aspects of a well known myth into the world of time travel and also a local rivalry. The book is set in a time when the myths are believed to be real but not actively taking place, allowing plenty of space for the stories to be told to the reader and then interpreted. Norse definitely feels like it's getting more attention again and it's nice to see this take for children that uses the takes but isn't a direct retelling.
There are several narrators in this book with Jeopardy getting a starring role this time around. Sim is still very much a main character but shares with his cousin this time (who could be argued to be a bit more important than him this time around!)
I liked that Nelson (who isn't a time key as he doesn't know music) got to share part of the adventure with them this time. He's so enthusiastic about the past so it's nice he got to spend some time in the past too.
While the group seems to have stopped the sinister council for now, I'm sure they will be back in another adventure!
THE LEGEND OF VIKING THUNDER is a fun second instalment that looks at myths through their life and impact rather than story themselves.
This weaves Norse mythology in a fun way, bringing aspects of a well known myth into the world of time travel and also a local rivalry. The book is set in a time when the myths are believed to be real but not actively taking place, allowing plenty of space for the stories to be told to the reader and then interpreted. Norse definitely feels like it's getting more attention again and it's nice to see this take for children that uses the takes but isn't a direct retelling.
There are several narrators in this book with Jeopardy getting a starring role this time around. Sim is still very much a main character but shares with his cousin this time (who could be argued to be a bit more important than him this time around!)
I liked that Nelson (who isn't a time key as he doesn't know music) got to share part of the adventure with them this time. He's so enthusiastic about the past so it's nice he got to spend some time in the past too.
While the group seems to have stopped the sinister council for now, I'm sure they will be back in another adventure!
August 29, 2025
The Legend of Viking Thunder by M.G. Leonard is the second book in the Time Keys series and every bit as gripping as the first. Leonard wastes no time, plunging readers straight into another fast-paced, time-travelling adventure.
This time, Sim is transported to Viking-age Norway in search of the legendary Gjallarhorn. But will he succeed in finding it, rescuing his family and friends, as well as outsmarting the dangerous Council of Keys? Along the way, Leonard masterfully blends history and legend, enriching the story with fascinating detail. At times, her writing even turns lyrical, especially when an old Norse tale is retold by one of the characters..
This is a thrilling read for ages 9–12, perfect for children who love adventure, time-travel, or historical fiction. A superb addition to any school library or home bookshelf.
This time, Sim is transported to Viking-age Norway in search of the legendary Gjallarhorn. But will he succeed in finding it, rescuing his family and friends, as well as outsmarting the dangerous Council of Keys? Along the way, Leonard masterfully blends history and legend, enriching the story with fascinating detail. At times, her writing even turns lyrical, especially when an old Norse tale is retold by one of the characters..
This is a thrilling read for ages 9–12, perfect for children who love adventure, time-travel, or historical fiction. A superb addition to any school library or home bookshelf.
September 26, 2025
This is book 2 in the Time Keys series. It can be read as a standalone but you will miss out on some character development.
Some of the characters of the previous book return but we are introduced to several new ones, and the action this time does not take place in Ancient Egypt but in the time of the Vikings.
My son is a big MG Leonard fan so he was very much looking forward to reading this one with me. He enjoyed the writing style and the time travel plot. As an adult, some of the plot seemed slightly far fetched but it did not seem to bother him!
A recommended read for fans of M G Leonard and time-travel middlegrade fiction.
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Books for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Some of the characters of the previous book return but we are introduced to several new ones, and the action this time does not take place in Ancient Egypt but in the time of the Vikings.
My son is a big MG Leonard fan so he was very much looking forward to reading this one with me. He enjoyed the writing style and the time travel plot. As an adult, some of the plot seemed slightly far fetched but it did not seem to bother him!
A recommended read for fans of M G Leonard and time-travel middlegrade fiction.
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Books for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2025
I could not wait for the next instalment of the Time Keys and I really enjoyed this authors books! Love her stories and with the new Time Keys series, I am so here for it. Truly and welly subscribed and all the books will be preordered as soon as they’re dropped!
Back with Sim and the dangers of time travel - in a world of keys, adventure and friendship. Also love Nelson so was happy to get to see him more in this book!
I love the characters and Sim and Jeopardy make a great team. This time, we’re not in the Egyptian times but the Vikings! With old Viking horns, stories of the old Norse gods and of course, close shaves and scraps our characters need to escape! They’re just so enjoyable and I’m glad there’s many more to look forward to!
Back with Sim and the dangers of time travel - in a world of keys, adventure and friendship. Also love Nelson so was happy to get to see him more in this book!
I love the characters and Sim and Jeopardy make a great team. This time, we’re not in the Egyptian times but the Vikings! With old Viking horns, stories of the old Norse gods and of course, close shaves and scraps our characters need to escape! They’re just so enjoyable and I’m glad there’s many more to look forward to!
October 13, 2025
Sim and Jeopardy are cousins - and, armed with some very special powers related to time travel, they are about to embark on a dangerous quest.
Somehow, they must elude the powerful Council of Keys, locate Jeopardy's missing father, and prevent the Viking doomsday horn from being used to summon the end of the world.
This is a wild ride involving rip-roaring adventures and petrifying perils, laced throughout with unexpected opportunities for laughter. The audio book was great fun, and I recommend it highly.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Somehow, they must elude the powerful Council of Keys, locate Jeopardy's missing father, and prevent the Viking doomsday horn from being used to summon the end of the world.
This is a wild ride involving rip-roaring adventures and petrifying perils, laced throughout with unexpected opportunities for laughter. The audio book was great fun, and I recommend it highly.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
August 10, 2025
The second book in the Time Keys Series, The Legend of Viking Thunder follows the friends journey into Viking Times. With Calidora and Emmett no longer Time Keys they are reliant upon the children to open doors. But with losing the time key ability means they also lose the ability to speak the languages of the places they go.
In Viking Times and searching for the Gjallorhorn this is a story of daring and determination. Another cracking read from Mg Leonard, and beautifully illustrated too
In Viking Times and searching for the Gjallorhorn this is a story of daring and determination. Another cracking read from Mg Leonard, and beautifully illustrated too
September 21, 2025
This properly gripped me from the beginning. I adored the first book and couldn’t wait to read this… where better than the rainy lakes? The magic and wonder of this world, the incredible history and the characters. The bad guys are deliciously evil. This is so clever. It’s like all really good storytelling. I can’t wait for the third book. I loved the illustrations too.
October 9, 2025
A fun fantasy elementary/middle grades book.
October 19, 2025
Love this authors books.
December 29, 2025
3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews