I think the cover appealed to me more than the story, which is fine, just a very middling middle grade book. The description compares it to The Night Gardner and The Graveyard Book, both exceptional reads, but it doesn't really fall exactly in line with either of them. It doesn't have the tense, spooky atmosphere of the former, nor the charming coming-of-age qualities of the latter. Sure, the Boneless King as a concept is frightening, but probably only enough to unnerve your average ten year old, which I suppose was the intention. It's a fine enough read for the younger crowd, with enough action and suspense to keep them turning the pages.