Sophie Anderson - The House With Chicken Legs Runs Away - Book Review/Pre-order - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Published by Usborne Publishing Ltd, 9th of April 2026. Book Cover art by Melissa Castrillion and inside illustrations by Elisa Pagnelli.

The House with Chicken Legs Runs Away is a magnificent and magical follow-up to Sophie Anderson’s enchanting tale that has captured the hearts of thousands, ESPECIALLY ME. This sequel is a spellbinding return to a universe where fantasy and heartfelt emotion intertwine, so much so you might JUST shed a tear or two. 

From the very first page, Anderson’s lyrical storytelling draws you into a realm bursting with wonder and fairy-tale magic. The narrative whisks you away on a pestle and mortar called Valiant, you heard it! In a breathtaking adventure Marinka, with the help of her loyal friend Benjamin and the quick-witted jackdaw Jack, races across fantastical lands in pursuit of answers. The story’s adventurous pace and imaginative settings keep readers of all ages on the edge of their seats. 

What makes this book truly shine is its blend of folklore, fairy-tale wonder and deep, relatable emotions. Marinka’s journey is not just one of physical pursuit but also one of self-discovery and courage. Facing her fears whilst unravelling the mysteries behind her house’s unexpected rebellion, Marinka’s quest is both a vivid adventure and a touching exploration of identity, freedom, and the bonds of friendship.

The House with Chicken Legs Runs Away is, without question, one of the best reads of the year. It offers a continuation of a beloved story while standing on its own as a masterful fairy-tale adventure. Whether you are a longtime fan of the series or new to Marinka’s world, you will find yourself captivated by the book’s charm and warmth.

Get ready to run wild with this house again, the epic tale reminds us that even when everything seems to fall apart, there is always magic waiting just around the bend. 

Why not Pre-order The House with Chicken Legs Runs Away to receive a limited-edition print of Elisa Pagnelli's gorgeous art and a brilliant badge pack so you can carry the house with you ✨E-mail proof of pre-order to marketing@usborne.co.uk✨ Offer ends 08.04.26 UK Only 🙏 You can pre-order from anywhere... but please also remember to support independent bookshops.  

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Emma Rea - ENTANGLED - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

By Emma Rea | Cover artwork by Kade Doszla
Published by Firefly Press| 2nd April 2026 | ISBN 9781917718189

A Thrilling Venetian Quest! 

Emma Rea’s upcoming novel, set against the evocative backdrop of Venice, promises a captivating blend of suspense, emotion, and mystery that can grip readers from the very first page.

An Imaginative Setting - One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its rich portrayal of Venice. The labyrinthine canals, bustling carnivals, and shadowed alleyways not only create a picturesque setting but also serve as the perfect stage for the unfolding mystery. This vibrant yet mysterious backdrop elevates the narrative and adds layers of depth, immersing the reader in a city where beauty and danger coexist.

A Tale of Family and Determination - At its heart, the story is a moving exploration of sibling love and resilience. Tia’s triumph in winning an art prize trip contrasts sharply with her vulnerability as a blind individual. Her brother Thomas, whose endearing clumsiness only makes him more relatable, embodies the fierce determination of a protective sibling. His journey through the darkened streets in search of his missing sister is both a literal and metaphorical quest, highlighting the lengths one will go to for family.

A Gripping Conspiracy - The disappearance of Tia is the catalyst for a suspenseful narrative that keeps the reader guessing at every turn. With no one to believe his concerns, Thomas's lone crusade into the hidden corners of Venice uncovers a conspiracy that is as hair-raising as it is complex. Rea weaves this mystery wonderfully, mixing elements of psychological intrigue with high stakes, ensuring that every page is steeped in tension and urgency.

Emma Rea’s novel promises to be a memorable journey through both the vibrant heart of Venice and the intricate landscape of family loyalty and human determination. With its blend of atmospheric settings, heartfelt emotion, and a twisting plot, this book is set to become a standout read for those who crave a story that is as visually rich as it is emotionally compelling. Keep an eye out for its release early April 2026—it might just be the next literary adventure that captivates your imagination.

Stéphane Servant - MONSTERS - Translated by Sarah Ardizzone Illustrated by Nicolas Zouliamis - Book Preview - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

It all starts when a travelling circus arrives in a small village... Everyone is intrigued and excited to see the show, which is said to feature a terrifying monster. That evening, Otto, the narrator, takes a seat in the tent. But when the curtains open, the reader gets a big surprise: the monster on the stage is actually a human child, while the audience is full of terrifying, grotesque monsters! Otto, whose face is finally revealed, is also a hairy monster. Little by little, Otto and the human child get to know each other, and change the way they both look at the world.

A gorgeously illustrated middle-grade novel / graphic novel hybrid, set in a deliciously gothic world of monsters. Published by Pushkin Children's Books ( 12 Mar. 2026) Hardback. 

Our village lay at the end of the world. Truly, the end of the world.

Beyond it was nothing, apart from the shadow cast by the mountains, a sea of dark mossy trees and lakes as deep as night.

The only way to reach our village was by a dusty, back-breaking track.

Meaning hardly anyone ever made it there. Sometimes, a blind peddler might pass by selling ointments and potions, or books nibbled at by rats. Sometimes, a few foolhardy walkers strayed this far: it was fun terrifying them, and they were gone in a flash. But it was rare indeed for anyone to venture along the treacherous stony path.

Pa, Ma and I lived in the house at the end of the village, by the silent road where only the dust danced.

Perhaps that’s why, on the day I was woken by the noise, I knew something unusual was afoot.
It sounded like tumbling stones.

Except it wasn’t coming from my dreams, or from the house. Although it felt that close.

I stood on my bed and pressed my nose against the cold windowpane.

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Favourite Children's Book Picks - FEB 2026 UK

 

Philip Reeve - Bridge of Storms (A New Mortal Engines Novel) - Published by Scholastic Press (3 Feb. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1546138266 - Age: 9+ 

A brand new epic, thrilling, action-packed city-eat-city adventure in the iconic and globally bestselling series - celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026! 

An edge-of-your-seat adventure set in the iconic world of Mortal Engines!

Can they get out of the Frying Pan without getting into the fire?

Tamzin Pook and her group of unlikely fighters-turned-friends have managed to make it out of Thorbury alive. Now with a massive, terrifying, armored, and undead Revenant (and its pet kitten) as one of their gang.

For their next mission, Tamzin and her friends head to the city of Museion to help save it from the ferocious predator suburbs that surround it and keep it trapped in the mountain valley known as the Frying Pan.

Here, Tamzin, Max Angmering, Oddington Doom, and Hilly Torpenhow are in for the toughest fight of their lives. But as they battle for the fate of Museion against the terrible predators that surround them, people on board Museion start to die one by one from a traitor within.

They’ve got to figure out an escape, but every direction looks like a trap.

Don’t miss this epic companion to Thunder City, set in the world of the Mortal Engines quartet.

K. L. Kettle - Control Alter Delete - Published by Little Tiger ( 5 Feb. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1788951234 - Age: 12+ 

What would you choose - a beautiful untrue life, or a broken true one?

Hal is living a fairy tale - almost. Thanks to tech genius Francis Knox and her company's pioneering work building the perfect World 2.0, the universe is available at a swipe, and Hal has everything she wants. (Except for her family, which fell apart after her dad's disappearance years ago.)

Except, perhaps, winning the notoriously competitive Knox Cup. That's a dream even World 2.0 can't fulfil, not when Hal doesn't have the funds to enter.

Then out of the blue Hal's guardian challenges her to prove herself, arranging for Hal to compete. It's an opportunity she can't waste. If she wins, she'll meet Francis Knox herself - then all of Hal's deepest, secret wishes might really come true. But as the competition progresses, Hal discovers decay hidden beneath the world's perfect veneer - and, as the cracks begin to grow, she is forced to make a choice about what it is she truly wants.

Rob Biddulph - The Last Wolf - Published by Macmillan Children's Books (5 Feb. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1035037315 - Age: 8 

The legend of the werewolf is reimagined in this thrilling, spine-tingling adventure by superstar DrawWithRob author/illustrator Rob Biddulph. Perfect for children of 8-12, with more than 100 spectacular black-and-white illustrations throughout.

Jax, Jovi, Esau and Fourth live for full-moon adventures – sneaking out after curfew, dodging the Nighthawks and roaming the empty streets of Moonhaven.

But when a rare werewolf attack rocks the town, the friends become prime suspects. With the Nighthawks closing in on anyone who was out after dark, they’re forced to run – setting off a chain of rumours, secrets and betrayals. As suspicion spreads, friendships are tested and the truth may be more dangerous than any of them imagined . . .

M. G. Leonard - The Impossible Gladiator (Time Keys Novel) - Published by Macmillan Children's Books (12 Feb. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1035024377 - Age: 8+ 

The action adventure of Gladiator meets the time travel of Doctor Who in the third title of this epic series by bestselling award-winner M. G. Leonard. Perfect for 8 to 12-year-old fans of Adventures on Trains. Supports the key stage 2 curriculum. Illustrated throughout in black and white by Manuel Šumberac.

Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson are enjoying an amazing holiday in Rome, until they are swept up in the mysterious disappearance of world-famous illusionist Kinetic. He vanished during a live broadcast from the Colosseum, but he never reappeared. When Kinetic’s sister finds a strange description in a history book of a gladiator who sounds uncannily like her brother, the friends are determined to help.

They travel through secret time doors to the spectacular ― and deadly ― Colosseum in Ancient Rome, but can the brave trio survive long enough to find Kinetic and bring him home?

The Impossible Gladiator can be read as a stand-alone novel, or enjoyed as part of the thrilling Time Keys series written by M. G. Leonard. Follow Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson's adventures in Ancient Egypt, Hunt for the Golden Scarab, and Viking Norway in The Legend of Viking Thunder.

What are you looking forward to reading in Feb 2026?

The Not-So Great Escape by Emma Green - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Published by Usborne Publishing Ltd (1 Jan. 2026) - Book Cover Illustration by Jack Noel. 

"The Not-so Great Escape" is a thought-provoking narrative penned by Emma Green, offering readers a blend of suspense, introspection, and adventure. With its clever interplay between personal recovery and the challenges of overcoming societal constraints, the book has captured the attention of a diverse audience eager to connect with its relatable themes and engaging storytelling.

## Why You Should Read This Book

1. **Rich Characterisation:**  

   Emma Green’s characters are meticulously crafted, drawing readers into their inner worlds. The protagonist’s journey is both an external quest and a profound inner exploration, making the narrative deeply personal and universally resonant.

2. **Engaging Plot:**  

   The book deftly balances suspense with introspection. Every twist keeps readers on edge while the introspective moments invite reflection on personal and societal struggles. It’s a book that challenges your perceptions and stays with you long after the pages are closed.

3. **Thought-Provoking Themes:**  

   Central themes include identity, resilience, and the complexities of modern life. The novel encourages readers to ponder what it means to seek genuine liberation in a world filled with subtle confinements. It’s a reflection on the escape from not just physical situations, but also the mental and emotional barriers that hold us back.

4. **Stylish Prose:**  

   Emma Green’s elegant writing style enhances the storytelling experience. The precise language paired with vivid imagery makes every scene come alive, inviting readers to savor each moment and fully immerse in the narrative.

5. **Universal Appeal:**  

   Whether you’re drawn to character-driven stories or thrilling plots, "The Not-so Great Escape" offers something for everyone. It’s a narrative that bridges the gap between literary art and accessible storytelling, perfect for a wide range of readers.

"The Not-so Great Escape" is more than a traditional narrative—it is an invitation to explore the paths of self-discovery and understand the nature of freedom in our modern society. With a combination of intricate character studies and an engrossing plot, Emma Green’s novel is an excellent choice for readers looking to be both entertained and intellectually stimulated. This is a compelling read for anyone ready to question the boundaries of escape, both in life and within themselves.

Happy reading!