The Golem's Eye by Jonathan Stroud (The Bartimaeus Trilogy: Book 2)

9/10

The Golem’s Eye is as exhilarating and enjoyable as its predecessor and The Bartimaeus Trilogy is a must-read for fantasy fans aged twelve and up.  First published in 2004, it is the second book in Jonathan Stroud’s darkly humourous trilogy, preceded by The Amulet of Samarkand and followed by Ptolemy’s Gate.

Two years have passed and the young magician Nathaniel is rising fast through the government ranks. But his career is suddenly threatened by a series of terrifying crises. A dangerous golem makes random attacks on London and other raids, even more threatening, are perpetrated by the Resistance. Nathaniel and Bartimaeus travel to Prague, enemy city of ancient magic, but while they are there uproar breaks out at home and Nathaniel returns to find his reputation in tatters. Can he rescue it from his Machiavellian adversaries in the government bent on his destruction?

Once again the relationship between Nathan, the determined young magician and Bartimaeus, the ancient and irascible djinni, forms the beating heart of this well-paced and tightly plotted second instalment.  The introduction of a key new character, Kitty Jones, a member of the Resistance, adds another sumptuous layer to what is undoubtedly one of the most exciting, amusing series of books you can find.

The Golem’s Eye has great dialogue between characters you begin to care even more about. As witty, entertaining and fast moving as the first book in the series, it cannot be recommended highly enough.