The Tainted Khan

The Tainted Khan – Taran Matharu
The Soulbound Saga – Book 2
Genre: Epic Fantasy • Progression/Cultivation Fantasy • Dragon Rider Fantasy
 
Tropes:
Dragon rider bond and progression
Political intrigue & reluctant leadership
Warrior training / power leveling journey
 
Summary:
Jai has finally bonded with his dragon, Winter—but both rider and dragon are still growing, and the Sabine Empire’s threat is escalating faster than they can keep up. Hoping to unite his people and fight for their freedom, Jai ventures across the Great Steppe, only to discover that the tribe he finds are the Tainted—outcasts whose customs and politics he barely understands.
Reuniting with his own people brings little comfort. His uncle holds the leadership of the Kidara and refuses to give up his power, forcing Jai into an unfamiliar and treacherous political landscape. As the Sabine Empire’s legionaries and Gryphon Guard strike against the tribes, Jai must master advanced magic, train as a warrior, and earn the trust of those who doubt him.
With war looming, responsibilities mounting, and the fate of the woman he loves uncertain, Jai carries a burden far greater than his years. His only hope is that Winter—growing stronger with every battle—will soon be powerful enough to help him shoulder it.