A.F. Steadman – författare

A NEW HERO TAKES FLIGHTSkandar Smith has only ever wanted to be a unicorn rider. When his dream comes true, Skandar is thrust into a world of elemental magic, epic sky battles and incredible new friendships. Skandar uncovers ancient secrets and encounters deadly enemies – and his adventure takes him on a journey he could never have imagined . . .THE SKANDAR COLLECTION FEATURES 3 EPIC ADVENTURES FROM THE NUMBER ONE BESTSELLING SERIESSkandar and the Unicorn ThiefThirteen-year-old Skandar Smith has only ever wanted to be a unicorn rider. To be one of the lucky few selected to hatch a unicorn. To bond with it for life; to train together and race for glory; to be a hero.But just as Skandar’s dream is about to come true, things start to take a more dangerous turn than he could ever have imagined. A dark and twisted enemy has stolen the Island’s most powerful unicorn – and as the threat grows ever closer, Skandar discovers a secret that could blow apart his world forever . . .Skandar and the Phantom RiderSkandar Smith has achieved his dream to train as a unicorn rider.But as Skandar and his friends enter their second year at the Eyrie, a new threat arises. Immortal wild unicorns are somehow being killed, a prophecy warns of terrible danger, and elemental destruction begins to ravage the Island. Meanwhile, Skandar’s sister, Kenna, longs to join him – and Skandar is determined to help her, no matter what. As the storm gathers, can Skandar discover how to stop the Island tearing itself apart – before it’s too late for them all?Skandar and the Chaos TrialsSkandar and his sister Kenna are finally both at the Eyrie, but tensions are high.To survive their third year of training, Skandar and his friends must complete a series of terrifying trials across the Island’s elemental zones. Friendships, allegiances and rider-unicorn bonds will be pushed to the limit – only the strongest will make it.Meanwhile Kenna’s forged bond to a wild unicorn has left her alienated and alone. And when a terrible discovery puts the future of the Island in peril, all fingers point in one direction . . . As dark forces assemble, Skandar must decide how far is he willing to go – for Kenna, and for the Eyrie. Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out! Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting – it’s a joy to enter Skandar’s World.’ – Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. series*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27 April 2024

BLOODTHIRSTY UNICORNS. UNLIKELY HEROES. A MORTAL ENEMY.Don’t miss this epic final adventure in the number 1 bestselling SKANDAR series, for fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures. Pre-order THE FIRST UNICORN RIDER now to be one of the first to read an unmissable new magical adventure set in the incredible WORLD OF SKANDARSkandar is in hiding after the Chaos Cup where Rex Manning revealed a game-changing secret. But as Rex prepares to invade the Mainland, the Islanders are not sure who to trust.With one of Skandar’s closest friends now fighting for the enemy, Skandar must build new alliances – including an uneasy truce with Kenna. To defeat Rex, Skandar and his friends will need to look back to the origins of the Island, and harness the full power of their elemental magic.Can Skandar become the leader he needs to be – to save the Mainland and the heart of the Island itself?Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out!Praise for the SKANDAR series:‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting – it’s a joy to enter Skandar’s World.’ – Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. seriesSkandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023.*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024*Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 besteller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

An unmissable new magical adventure set in the incredible World of Skandar, perfect for fans of the series and newcomers alike. From international bestselling author A.F. Steadman, with stunning illustrations throughout. Perfect for fans of Harry Potter, Impossible Creatures, Eragon and Greenwild. A BOY WITH A DESTINY. A MYSTERIOUS ISLAND. A WORLD OF MAGICAL CREATURES.George Penhaligon has only ever wanted adventure.But when he finds himself shipwrecked and alone on a mysterious island, he makes an incredible discovery. Unicorns are real – and they’re bloodthirsty.Slowly, George gains one unicorn’s trust and together they explore the island’s magical secrets. But there is a dark presence lurking in his new home, more deadly than any unicorn.Can George fulfil his destiny and free the island from a terrible fate?Discover the incredible World of Skandar with this thrilling origin adventure with black and white illustrations throughout by Manuel Šumberac. Praise for the SKANDAR series:‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting – it’s a joy to enter Skandar’s World.’ – Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. series*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024*Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 besteller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

‘The most popular fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ Telegraph BLOODTHIRSTY UNICORNS. UNLIKELY HEROES. A DEADLY CURSE. The epic adventure continues.Don’t miss the unputdownable new book in number 1 bestselling SKANDAR series, for readers ages 9 to 99 and fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures.Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023.As Skandar and his friends begin their fourth year at the Eyrie, the Island’s unicorns are struck by a terrible curse that threatens to change everything. Between a Commodore determined to eliminate the spirit element for good, and a sister hellbent on revenge, nowhere is safe for Skandar. As more and more unicorns are affected by the curse, the clock is ticking for Skandar and his quartet, who find themselves literally racing for their lives. Can they stop the curse in its tracks before the Island is lost for ever? Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out! Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week ‘Endlessly thrilling, unputdownable and utterly unmissable.’ – Aisling Fowler, author of Fireborn‘My book of the year. Not since Harry Potter have I felt this excited about a series. Readers are sure to be clamouring for the next book. You’ll never look at unicorns the same way again, nor will you want to!’ – Dominique Valente, author of Starfell‘Never have unicorns been so ferocious, fearsome and thrilling! A fantastically gripping read!’ – Laura Ellen Anderson, author of Rainbow Grey‘A. F. Steadman has created a stunning new world that feels both familiar and fresh, with a cast of characters that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.’ –Tọlá Okogwu, author of Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun'Perfect for those who have consumed the Harry Potter books and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and are looking for their next fictional feast.' – The Sunday Times   *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27 April 2024

HEROES AND UNICORNS AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE. The epic adventure continues . . .Don’t miss this sequel to Waterstones Children’s Book of the Year 2022 Skandar and the Unicorn Thief. Skandar and the Phantom Rider is the second book in the international bestselling SKANDAR series, an unmissable adventure for readers age 9 to 99 and fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Fireborn.The Island shall have its revenge . . .Skandar Smith has achieved his dream to train as a unicorn rider.But as Skandar and his friends enter their second year at the Eyrie, a new threat arises. Immortal wild unicorns are somehow being killed, a prophecy warns of terrible danger, and elemental destruction begins to ravage the Island. Meanwhile, Skandar’s sister, Kenna, longs to join him – and Skandar is determined to help her, no matter what. As the storm gathers, can Skandar discover how to stop the Island tearing itself apart – before it’s too late for them all? THE EPIC ADVENTURE CONTINUES... PRE-ORDER SKANDAR AND THE CHAOS TRIALS, THE UNMISSABLE BRAND NEW BOOK IN THE SERIES, NOW!ONE OF THE THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023SKANDAR AND THE UNICORN THIEF WAS THE WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023'Epic, unforgettable and endlessly exciting, Steadman’s masterful sequel soars even higher than her debut.' – Aisling Fowler, author of the Fireborn series Praise for Skandar and the Unicorn Thief, the first book in the SKANDAR series:'Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.' – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Pacy, enthralling and epic, a gripping read.’ – Louie Stowell, author of Loki and Otherland ‘A dazzling feat of imagination. I loved every breathless moment of it!’ – Cat Doyle, author of The Storm Keeper’s Island and co-author of Twin Crowns‘The best book I’ve ever read.’ – Patrick, age 10‘My book of the year. Not since Harry Potter have I felt this excited about a series. Readers are sure to be clamouring for the next book. You’ll never look at unicorns the same way again, nor will you want to!’ – Dominique Valente, author of the Starfell series‘Never have unicorns been so ferocious, fearsome and thrilling! A fantastically gripping read!’ – Laura Ellen Anderson, author of Amelia Fang and Rainbow Grey‘A magnificent book. I raced through it – at turns enthralled, delighted, amazed. It’s everything I could have wanted and more. No doubt this book is going to fly.’ – Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear‘Skandar and the Unicorn Thief brims with wild adventure, fierce sky battles, elemental magic, ferocious unicorns and a terrifying enemy. Steadman's cinematic writing draws you in from the very first page, creating a hugely compelling, unforgettable read. Endlessly thrilling, unputdownable and utterly unmissable.’ – Aisling Fowler, author of Fireborn‘A. F. Steadman has created a stunning new world that feels both familiar and fresh, with a cast of characters that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.’ –Tọlá Okogwu, author of Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun'SKANDAR soars with magic, adventure, and pulse-pounding fun – the book equivalent of riding a rollercoaster while eating cake with fireworks exploding overhead!' – Andy Sagar, author of the Yesterday Crumb series'Perfect for those who have consumed the Harry Potter books and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and are looking for their next fictional feast.' – The Sunday Times

BLOODTHIRSTY UNICORNS. UNLIKELY HEROES. A MORTAL ENEMY.The first book in the number 1 bestselling SKANDAR series, for fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures from international bestselling author Annabel Steadman!Thirteen-year-old Skandar Smith has only ever wanted to be a unicorn rider. To be one of the lucky few selected to hatch a unicorn. To bond with it for life; to train together and race for glory; to be a hero. But just as Skandar’s dream is about to come true, things start to take a more dangerous turn than he could ever have imagined. A dark and twisted enemy has stolen the Island’s most powerful unicorn – and as the threat grows ever closer, Skandar discovers a secret that could blow apart his world forever . . .Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out!Praise for the SKANDAR series:‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting – it’s a joy to enter Skandar’s World.’ – Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. seriesSkandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023.*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024*Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 besteller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

BLOODTHIRSTY UNICORNS. UNLIKELY HEROES. A MORTAL ENEMY.The adventure continues in the number 1 bestselling SKANDAR series, for fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures from international bestselling author Annabel Steadman!The Island shall have its revenge . . .Skandar Smith has achieved his dream to train as a unicorn rider.But as Skandar and his friends enter their second year at the Eyrie, a new threat arises. Immortal wild unicorns are somehow being killed, a prophecy warns of terrible danger, and elemental destruction begins to ravage the Island. Meanwhile, Skandar’s sister, Kenna, longs to join him – and Skandar is determined to help her, no matter what. As the storm gathers, can Skandar discover how to stop the Island tearing itself apart – before it’s too late for them all? Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out!Praise for the SKANDAR series:‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting – it’s a joy to enter Skandar’s World.’ – Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. seriesSkandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023.*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024*Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 besteller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

HEROES AND UNICORNS AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE. The epic adventure continues . . .Don’t miss the unputdownable new book in the international bestselling SKANDAR series, for readers ages 9 to 99 and fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures.Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023  The Island always wins…Skandar and his sister Kenna are finally both at the Eyrie, but tensions are high.To survive their third year of training, Skandar and his friends must complete a series of terrifying trials across the Island’s elemental zones. Friendships, allegiances and rider-unicorn bonds will be pushed to the limit – only the strongest will make it.Meanwhile Kenna’s forged bond to a wild unicorn has left her alienated and alone. And when a terrible discovery puts the future of the Island in peril, all fingers point in one direction . . . As dark forces assemble, Skandar must decide how far is he willing to go – for Kenna, and for the Eyrie.  Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out!Praise for the SKANDAR series:‘Skandar Smith’s adventures at the Eyrie, a training school for unicorn riders, have made him the most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter.’- The Daily Telegraph'Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.' – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Pacy, enthralling and epic, a gripping read.’ – Louie Stowell, author of Loki ‘A dazzling feat of imagination. I loved every breathless moment of it!’ – Cat Doyle, author of The Storm Keeper’s Island and co-author of Twin Crowns‘The best book I’ve ever read.’ – Patrick, age 10‘My book of the year. Not since Harry Potter have I felt this excited about a series. Readers are sure to be clamouring for the next book. You’ll never look at unicorns the same way again, nor will you want to!’ – Dominique Valente, author of Starfell ‘A magnificent book. I raced through it – at turns enthralled, delighted, amazed. It’s everything I could have wanted and more. No doubt this book is going to fly.’ – Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear'Perfect for those who have consumed the Harry Potter books and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and are looking for their next fictional feast.' – The Sunday Times  Reader Reviews: ***** 'Overall amazing in every way.'***** ‘My daughter has rated them better that Percy Jackson.’ ***** ’I don’t know how I’m going to wait for the next one.’ ***** ’I have read Harry Potter and I think Skandar is better.’ ***** ’Move over Harry Potter there’s a new hero in town!’ *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27 April 2024

HEROES AND UNICORNS AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE. The first book in the award-winning, international hit fantasy adventure series for children age 9+, and fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Fireborn.WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!'Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.' – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Pacy, enthralling and epic, a gripping read.’ – Louie Stowell, author of Loki and Otherland ‘A dazzling feat of imagination. I loved every breathless moment of it!’ – Cat Doyle, author of The Storm Keeper’s Island and co-author of Twin Crowns‘The best book I’ve ever read.’ – Patrick, age 10 Thirteen-year-old Skandar Smith has only ever wanted to be a unicorn rider. To be one of the lucky few selected to hatch a unicorn. To bond with it for life; to train together and race for glory; to be a hero.  But just as Skandar’s dream is about to come true, things start to take a more dangerous turn than he could ever have imagined. A dark and twisted enemy has stolen the Island’s most powerful unicorn – and as the threat grows ever closer, Skandar discovers a secret that could blow apart his world forever . . .  Get ready for unlikely HEROES, elemental MAGIC, sky battles, ancient secrets, nail-biting races and FEROCIOUS UNICORNS, in this EPIC ADVENTURE series that will have your heart soaring.THE EPIC ADVENTURE CONTINUES . . . PRE-ORDER SKANDAR AND THE CHAOS TRIALS, THE UNMISSABLE BRAND NEW BOOK IN THE SERIES, NOW!Praise for Skandar and the Unicorn Thief: ‘My book of the year. Not since Harry Potter have I felt this excited about a series. Readers are sure to be clamouring for the next book. You’ll never look at unicorns the same way again, nor will you want to!’ – Dominique Valente, author of the Starfell series  ‘Never have unicorns been so ferocious, fearsome and thrilling! A fantastically gripping read!’ – Laura Ellen Anderson, author of Amelia Fang and Rainbow Grey  ‘A magnificent book. I raced through it – at turns enthralled, delighted, amazed. It’s everything I could have wanted and more. No doubt this book is going to fly.’ – Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear  ‘Skandar and the Unicorn Thief brims with wild adventure, fierce sky battles, elemental magic, ferocious unicorns and a terrifying enemy. Steadman's cinematic writing draws you in from the very first page, creating a hugely compelling, unforgettable read. Endlessly thrilling, unputdownable and utterly unmissable.’ – Aisling Fowler, author of Fireborn  ‘A. F. Steadman has created a stunning new world that feels both familiar and fresh, with a cast of characters that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.’ –Tọlá Okogwu, author of Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun'Perfect for those who have consumed the Harry Potter books and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and are looking for their next fictional feast.' – The Sunday Times

HEROES AND UNICORNS AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE. The epic adventure continues . . .Don’t miss the unputdownable new book in the international bestselling SKANDAR series, for readers ages 9 to 99 and fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures.Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023  The Island always wins…Skandar and his sister Kenna are finally both at the Eyrie, but tensions are high.To survive their third year of training, Skandar and his friends must complete a series of terrifying trials across the Island’s elemental zones. Friendships, allegiances and rider-unicorn bonds will be pushed to the limit – only the strongest will make it.Meanwhile Kenna’s forged bond to a wild unicorn has left her alienated and alone. And when a terrible discovery puts the future of the Island in peril, all fingers point in one direction . . . As dark forces assemble, Skandar must decide how far is he willing to go – for Kenna, and for the Eyrie.  Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out!Praise for the SKANDAR series:‘Skandar Smith’s adventures at the Eyrie, a training school for unicorn riders, have made him the most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter.’- The Daily Telegraph'Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.' – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Pacy, enthralling and epic, a gripping read.’ – Louie Stowell, author of Loki ‘A dazzling feat of imagination. I loved every breathless moment of it!’ – Cat Doyle, author of The Storm Keeper’s Island and co-author of Twin Crowns‘The best book I’ve ever read.’ – Patrick, age 10‘My book of the year. Not since Harry Potter have I felt this excited about a series. Readers are sure to be clamouring for the next book. You’ll never look at unicorns the same way again, nor will you want to!’ – Dominique Valente, author of Starfell ‘A magnificent book. I raced through it – at turns enthralled, delighted, amazed. It’s everything I could have wanted and more. No doubt this book is going to fly.’ – Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear'Perfect for those who have consumed the Harry Potter books and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and are looking for their next fictional feast.' – The Sunday Times  Reader Reviews: ***** 'Overall amazing in every way.'***** ‘My daughter has rated them better that Percy Jackson.’ ***** ’I don’t know how I’m going to wait for the next one.’ ***** ’I have read Harry Potter and I think Skandar is better.’ ***** ’Move over Harry Potter there’s a new hero in town!’ *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27 April 2024

The first book in the hotly anticipated new fantasy adventure series for readers age 9+, from A. F. Steadman. If you like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon or His Dark Materials, you’ll love this . . .Unicorns don’t belong in fairy tales; they belong in nightmares.So begins Skandar and the Unicorn Thief. Soar into a world where unicorns are real – and they’re deadly. They can only be tamed by the rider who hatches them.Thirteen-year-old Skandar Smith has only ever wanted to be a unicorn rider, and the time has finally come for him to take his Hatchery Exam, which will determine whether he is destined to hatch a unicorn egg. But when Skandar is stopped from taking the exam, and the mysterious and frightening Weaver steals the most powerful unicorn in the world, becoming a rider proves a lot more dangerous than he could ever have imagined. And what if Skandar was always destined to be the villain rather than the hero?Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, fierce sky battles, ancient secrets, nail-biting races and, of course, bloodthirsty unicorns. This will be the biggest new series of 2022.

‘The most popular fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ Telegraph BLOODTHIRSTY UNICORNS. UNLIKELY HEROES. A DEADLY CURSE. The epic adventure continues.Don’t miss the unputdownable new book in number 1 bestselling SKANDAR series, for readers ages 9 to 99 and fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures. Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023.As Skandar and his friends begin their fourth year at the Eyrie, the Island’s unicorns are struck by a terrible curse that threatens to change everything. Between a Commodore determined to eliminate the spirit element for good, and a sister hellbent on revenge, nowhere is safe for Skandar. As more and more unicorns are affected by the curse, the clock is ticking for Skandar and his quartet, who find themselves literally racing for their lives. Can they stop the curse in its tracks before the Island is lost for ever? Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out! Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week ‘Endlessly thrilling, unputdownable and utterly unmissable.’ – Aisling Fowler, author of Fireborn‘My book of the year. Not since Harry Potter have I felt this excited about a series. Readers are sure to be clamouring for the next book. You’ll never look at unicorns the same way again, nor will you want to!’ – Dominique Valente, author of Starfell‘Never have unicorns been so ferocious, fearsome and thrilling! A fantastically gripping read!’ – Laura Ellen Anderson, author of Rainbow Grey‘A. F. Steadman has created a stunning new world that feels both familiar and fresh, with a cast of characters that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.’ –Tọlá Okogwu, author of Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun'Perfect for those who have consumed the Harry Potter books and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and are looking for their next fictional feast.' – The Sunday Times   *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27 April 2024

BLOODTHIRSTY UNICORNS. UNLIKELY HEROES. A MORTAL ENEMY.Don’t miss this epic final adventure in the number 1 bestselling SKANDAR series, for fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures. Pre-order THE FIRST UNICORN RIDER now to be one of the first to read an unmissable new magical adventure set in the incredible WORLD OF SKANDARSkandar is in hiding after the Chaos Cup where Rex Manning revealed a game-changing secret. But as Rex prepares to invade the Mainland, the Islanders are not sure who to trust.With one of Skandar’s closest friends now fighting for the enemy, Skandar must build new alliances – including an uneasy truce with Kenna. To defeat Rex, Skandar and his friends will need to look back to the origins of the Island, and harness the full power of their elemental magic.Can Skandar become the leader he needs to be – to save the Mainland and the heart of the Island itself?Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out!Praise for the SKANDAR series:‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting – it’s a joy to enter Skandar’s World.’ – Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. seriesSkandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023.*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024*Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 besteller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

THE GRIPPING FIRST ADULT FANTASY NOVEL FROM A.F. STEADMAN, AUTHOR OF THE AWARD-WINNING AND INTERNATIONALLY BESTSELLING SKANDAR SERIES!Timeless enemies. Timecrossed lovers. A future in freefall...At twenty, Artemis has just graduated top of her Cambridge class of assassins, the most respected discipline in the Faculty’s army. As a timeless soldier, she will travel in and out of linear time, protecting the fragile future with her lethal hands. Along with her crew – a navigator, an armourer, a historian and a physician – she will do whatever it takes to stop the destruction of history by dangerous time vandals. Although Artemis might look like she’s got everything she ever wanted, growing up in Cambridge hasn’t been easy. Assassins must be ruthless to survive and she’s made enemies, discarded a fair few lovers and has a secret that could lose her everything she’s worked for. And things don’t get any simpler once she and her crew start to travel. On assignment, all timeless soldiers must obey four fundamental rules:   Never betray the Faculty Never let a time vandal live Never fall in love with a target Never die in linear time But Artemis is going to meet a time vandal who has been waiting for her. And despite knowing this man is devastation distilled – that he is the very war she is fighting – she is going to break all the rules and let him live. As he follows her through time and space, Art is going to become obsessed with two questions: why is he so determined to be everywhere she is?And why can’t she bring herself to kill him?

THE GRIPPING FIRST ADULT FANTASY NOVEL FROM A.F. STEADMAN, AUTHOR OF THE AWARD-WINNING AND INTERNATIONALLY BESTSELLING SKANDAR SERIES!Timeless enemies. Timecrossed lovers. A future in freefall...At twenty, Artemis has just graduated top of her Cambridge class of assassins, the most respected discipline in the Faculty’s army. As a timeless soldier, she will travel in and out of linear time, protecting the fragile future with her lethal hands. Along with her crew – a navigator, an armourer, a historian and a physician – she will do whatever it takes to stop the destruction of history by dangerous time vandals. Although Artemis might look like she’s got everything she ever wanted, growing up in Cambridge hasn’t been easy. Assassins must be ruthless to survive and she’s made enemies, discarded a fair few lovers and has a secret that could lose her everything she’s worked for. And things don’t get any simpler once she and her crew start to travel. On assignment, all timeless soldiers must obey four fundamental rules:   Never betray the Faculty Never let a time vandal live Never fall in love with a target Never die in linear time But Artemis is going to meet a time vandal who has been waiting for her. And despite knowing this man is devastation distilled – that he is the very war she is fighting – she is going to break all the rules and let him live. As he follows her through time and space, Art is going to become obsessed with two questions: why is he so determined to be everywhere she is?And why can’t she bring herself to kill him?

A BOY WITH A DESTINY. A MYSTERIOUS ISLAND. A MAGICAL CREATURE.Discover how it all began in this unmissable Skandar origin story . . .??George Penhaligon has only ever wanted adventure. But when his fishing boat is caught in a storm, he ends up shipwrecked on an unknown island. Here he discovers something magical and terrifying – that unicorns are real and bloodthirsty. These unicorns display magical powers, but they have never encountered humans before, and their magic is wild, uncontrolled and deadly.Slowly George befriends a wild creature and begins to discover the island’s secrets. But there is a dark and sinister presence on the island that is threatening not only the unicorns but the magic of the island itself. George’s adventure may be more dangerous than he ever bargained for. Can George protect his new island home and defeat the creature that is stalking it?A fantastic new adventure in The World of Skandar taking readers back to the origins of the Island, with black and white illustrations throughout, from international bestselling author A.F. Steadman.Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph‘Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.’ – The Times Children's Book of the Week‘Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting – it’s a joy to enter Skandar’s World.’ – Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. series

TAKE FLIGHT ON THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME  BOY. RIDER. HERO. Skandar Smith never thought he’d be a hero. But when he is flown to an island full of bloodthirsty unicorns, everything changes. Along with his fellow riders, Skandar must train to battle with elemental magic – but can they defeat the shadowy enemy that threatens their new home? GET READY FOR EPIC SKY BATTLES, DEADLY SECRETS AND FRIENDSHIPS THAT WILL LAST FOREVER. GO ALL IN and celebrate the National Year of Reading 2026 with these epic new editions of the international bestselling Skandar series, featuring brand new illustrated covers.  Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph  Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!  *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024 *Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

TAKE FLIGHT ON THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME  BOY. RIDER. HERO. Skandar Smith has survived his first year as a unicorn rider. Now all he wants is to train alongside his friends – even if that means keeping secrets from his sister, Kenna. But when elemental magic begins to destroy the Island, can Skandar unravel the past and protect the future for them all? GET READY FOR EPIC SKY BATTLES, DEADLY SECRETS AND FRIENDSHIPS THAT WILL LAST FOREVER.GO ALL IN and celebrate the National Year of Reading 2026 with these epic new editions of the international bestselling Skandar series, featuring brand new illustrated covers.  Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph  Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!  *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024 *Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

TAKE FLIGHT ON THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME  BOY. RIDER. HERO. Skandar Smith must face a series of terrifying trials to pass his third year of rider training – but not everyone will make it. Meanwhile, Kenna faces a different challenge, and the Weaver has a deadly plan that threatens the riders and the future of the Island. Can Skandar stop the Weaver before the Island is changed forever?    GET READY FOR EPIC SKY BATTLES, DEADLY SECRETS AND FRIENDSHIPS THAT WILL LAST FOREVER. GO ALL IN and celebrate the National Year of Reading 2026 with these epic new editions of the international bestselling Skandar series,featuring brand new illustrated covers. Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph  Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!  *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024 *Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

TAKE FLIGHT ON THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME  BOY. RIDER. HERO. Skandar Smith just wants to train to be a rider. But when the Island’s unicorns are struck by a terrible curse and the Commodore of Chaos refuses to investigate, it is up to Skandar and his friends to be the heroes the Island needs. Can they stop the curse before it’s too late?  GET READY FOR EPIC SKY BATTLES, DEADLY SECRETS AND FRIENDSHIPS THAT WILL LAST FOREVER. GO ALL IN and celebrate the National Year of Reading 2026 with these epic new editions of the international bestselling Skandar series, featuring brand new illustrated covers.Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph  Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!  *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024 *Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025

TAKE FLIGHT ON THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME  BOY. RIDER. HERO. Skandar Smith is an enemy of the Island. Rex Manning has turned the Islanders against him.  Skandar will need to put together a team of brave and loyal unicorn riders, including his sister Kenna, to defeat Rex’s evil plans. But saving the day won’t be that easy – he must also discover the origins of the Island’s elemental magic.  Can Skandar be the hero one last time and save both the Island and the Mainland?   GET READY FOR EPIC SKY BATTLES, DEADLY SECRETS AND FRIENDSHIPS THAT WILL LAST FOREVER. GO ALL IN and celebrate the National Year of Reading 2026 with these epic new editions of the international bestselling Skandar series, featuring brand new illustrated covers. Praise for the SKANDAR series: ‘The most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter’ – Telegraph  Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!  *Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024 *Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children’s Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025