The Runaway King (Ascendance, #2)

Name: The Runaway King (Ascendance, #2)
Rating: 4.24 (50142 reviews)
Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen
ISBN: 9780545284158

ISBN: 0545284155

ISBN 13: 9780545284158

Publication Date: March 01, 2013

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Pages: 331

Format: Hardcover

Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen

4.24 of 50,142

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About This Book

A kingdom teetering on the brink of destruction. A king gone missing. Who will survive?
Just weeks after Jaron has taken the throne, an assassination attempt forces him into a deadly situation. Rumors of a coming war are winding their way between the castle walls, and Jaron feels the pressure quietly mounting within Carthya. Soon, it becomes clear that deserting the kingdom may be his only hope of saving it. But the further Jaron is forced to run from his identity, the more he wonders if it is possible to go too far. Will he ever be able to return home again? Or will he have to sacrifice his own life in order to save his kingdom?
The stunning second installment of The Ascendance Trilogy takes readers on a roller coaster ride of treason and murder, thrills and peril, as they journey with the Runaway King.

Editorial Review

Among the notable works in its genre, The Runaway King (Ascendance, #2) by Jennifer A. Nielsen has established itself as a must-read title. With a excellent rating of 4.24 out of 5 from 50,142 readers, this book has proven its appeal to a broad audience.

The book explores rich themes that keep readers engaged from start to finish. A kingdom teetering on the brink of destruction. A king gone missing. Who will survive?

Published by Scholastic Press, in 2013, this 331-page volume, offers approximately 9 hours of reading time. It represents a carefully curated selection that reflects the high standards readers have come to expect.

— Reviewed by Editorial App Deal Library · May 24, 2026

Why Read This Book?

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Highly Rated by Readers — The Runaway King (Ascendance, #2) holds an impressive 4.24/5 rating from 50,142 readers, reflecting its wide appeal and consistent quality.

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Proven Writer — Jennifer A. Nielsen brings a recognized level of craft and expertise to The Runaway King (Ascendance, #2), ensuring readers receive a polished and rewarding experience.

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Well-Balanced Length — With 331 pages, The Runaway King (Ascendance, #2) strikes the right balance between depth and readability, making it accessible without sacrificing substance.

Reading Recommendations

If you enjoyed The Runaway King (Ascendance, #2), you'll likely appreciate these similar titles: "The Ascendance Series 4 Set (Paperback Books 1-4) - The False Prince, The Runaway King, The Shadow Throne, & The Captive Kingdom", "Nightfall (Keeper of the Lost Cities, #6)" and "Unraveled (Keeper of the Lost Cities, #9.5)". These books share thematic elements and stylistic qualities that appeal to the same audience, offering equally engaging reading experiences.

Quick Summary

In 'The Runaway King,' the second book of the Ascendance Trilogy, Jaron faces immediate threats to his newly acquired throne after an assassination attempt. To protect his kingdom of Carthya from impending war, he decides to flee, grappling with his identity and the sacrifices necessary for leadership. This installment explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the complexities of ruling under pressure.

Key Takeaways

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Understanding the weight of leadership and its challenges.

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Exploring themes of identity and sacrifice.

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Experiencing the tension between personal desires and responsibilities.

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Recognizing the impact of loyalty and betrayal in relationships.

Who Should Read This Book

This book is ideal for young adult readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure, particularly those who appreciate intricate plots involving political intrigue and character development. Fans of the first book in the Ascendance Trilogy will find this sequel engaging as it deepens the story of Jaron and the kingdom of Carthya.