by Jenny Nimmo
First published 2008
Charlie Bone faces his most dangerous quest yet when Count Harken returns seeking vengeance against the Red King's descendants. The evil enchanter has kidnapped Charlie's ancestor and dragged him into Badlock, a sinister realm accessible only through an enchanted painting. Charlie steps through the canvas into this threatening landscape, accompanied by Runner Bean, his best friend's loyal dog. But their rescue mission goes wrong when Runner Bean becomes trapped in Badlock's dark territory. Now Charlie must call upon his friends for help as they confront an army of trolls blocking their path. With time running out, Charlie and his allies race to free both Runner Bean and his imprisoned ancestor before Count Harken's revenge destroys them all. This seventh adventure tests Charlie's courage and the strength of his friendships in ways he never imagined.
Genres: fiction, adventure, fantasy, young-adult
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: found-family, quest
Setting: Badlock
429 pages · Hardcover · Orchard Books