The Tainted Khan (The Soulbound Saga book 2)

The Tainted Khan is the much-anticipated sequel to Taran Matharu’s Sunday Times bestseller, Dragon Rider. Set in a sprawling world of dragons, magic, and rebellion, this book takes readers deeper into the heart of Jai’s journey as he fights to free his people from the oppressive Sabine Empire. With his dragon, Winter, still growing alongside him, Jai must navigate treacherous political landscapes while mastering his own powers. His dreams of freedom are complicated when he encounters the outcasts known as the Tainted on the Great Steppe—a group that challenges everything he thought he knew about leadership and loyalty.

As tensions rise between the tribes of the Great Steppe and the relentless forces of the Sabine Empire, Jai finds himself thrust into battles both physical and emotional. He is forced to mature quickly, honing his magical abilities, becoming a true warrior, and strengthening the bond with Winter, who carries not just him but also their shared destiny. The stakes grow higher as he learns to balance love, duty, and survival in a land where every decision could mean life or death for those he cares about most.

Matharu masterfully weaves intricate layers of history, politics, and soulful magic into an epic tale filled with shocking twists, bloodshed, and moments of hope. Readers will be captivated by the vivid world-building, where dragons soar across vast grasslands and empires crumble under the weight of rebellion. Every chapter pulls you further into Jai’s struggles, making it impossible to put the book down until the final page.

The Tainted Khan doesn’t just continue the story—it expands it, offering new perspectives on power, identity, and resilience. Fans of classic fantasy adventures like Eragon and Temeraire will find themselves drawn to the dynamic relationship between Jai and Winter, whose partnership evolves in unexpected ways throughout the narrative. This sequel cements Taran Matharu’s reputation as a storyteller who can craft richly complex worlds that resonate deeply with readers long after they’ve finished the last sentence.

Perfect for fans of sweeping epics and slow-burn character development, The Tainted Khan delivers a thrilling ride through a world where dragons aren’t just creatures—they’re symbols of hope, strength, and the enduring fight for freedom. Whether you’re new to the series or eagerly awaiting this next installment, this book promises to leave you breathless and yearning for more.