Even if you are not a lover of children’s books the name David Farr is probably familiar to you. As I sat down to write this review I noticed that his adaptation of John le Carré’s, The Night Manager continues its second series on 1st January and is attracting much attention. Farr’s ability to hold an audience is apparent in this final instalment of his epic fantasy, adventure trilogy for children. This is a thrilling and ultimately moving finale to the story of brother and sister Robert and Rachel Klein’s courageous battle to overcome evil and restore peace to their family, community and country.

After defeating the evil Charles Malstain life is slowly starting to feel normal again for twelve year old Rachel Klein. She is enjoying life with her librarian father Felix and her brother Robert, accompanying her father to the cinema to see the latest film starring his favourite actor, Emil Bonfleur. However the showing is cancelled due to the disappearance of the popular Bonfleur while he was travelling through the desert. Mere days later he miraculously reappears safe and well to the delight of his fans. When Rachel and her family are invited to a banquet celebrating his return Rachel becomes suspicious and is sure something feels wrong. Then she realises the horrifying truth and she and Robert must once more pit their wits against an evil they thought conquered for good. The two youngsters then race against time to stop their country of Kasnia being held permanently under tyrannical rule.

The enthralling plot features elements and characters from the previous two books and builds on the big themes already incorporated in the story in this intense and compelling finale. This is a gripping combination of magical fantasy, cinematic style adventure and political intrigue. Originally inspired by David Farr’s great aunt and uncle’s own story the author brings to life a vivid world inspired by reality. Although never intended to be a representation of Nazi Germany Brasnia could portray any country under the control of a dictator. It has a chilling authenticity. The manipulation of people by those in power is highlighted and has great resonance today making this book well suited for discussion in a book group or classroom. The book touches on tricky questions about life and death with the Hinterland of the story providing a way of connecting with those who have died and also being a crucial part of the plot. Having accompanied the characters through all three books the development of the characters, in particular Rachel, is well drawn and there are moments of quiet reflection and increased maturity that readers may well find thoughtful and comforting.

The Final Battle is an excellent ending to the Book of Stolen Dreams series containing drama, danger and excitement balanced by thoughtful exploration of themes including family, loyalty, courage and standing up for what is right. I would suggest that this is best suited to readers at the upper end of the middle grade audience age group. The wonderful illustrations and chapter headings by Kristina Kister capture the world that David Farr has created perfectly. I particularly liked the double page spread of the bookstore which I would love to visit!

The Book of Stolen Dreams: The Final Battle was published in September 2025 by Usborne Books and I should like to thank both the publisher and Fritha Lindqvist for providing my review copy. You may be interested in my reviews of the first two books, The Book of Stolen Dreams and The Secret of the Blood Red Key both of which I would also recommend