Abhorsen by Garth Nix

Another award winning fantasy from Nix (Ditmar Award Nominee for Best Novel (2004) and Aurealis Award for Young Adult Novel and Best Fantasy Novel) follows directly along from Lirael, with Lirael and Sam facing the Destroyer, an evil being, desperate to escape from its prison and take over the world. Sabriel and Touchstone have gone to Ancelstierre to seek help in stopping the being and Sam’s friend Nick has been trapped into helping the forces of darkness.

Fans of the first two books will not be disappointed. The incredible world building with its Charter Magic and Free Magic, its evil spirits, the Dead who walk and the Nine G into Death is an outstanding feature of this series. Both Lirael and Sam have become confident in their abilities and are determined to overcome the dark necromancers that scrouge the Kingdom. The knowledge that Lirael must use when she wields the bells is amazing. Sam, meanwhile, has gradually realised the power that he has as a Wallmaker and Charter Mage, and is a helpful ally. Of course, those two fantastic characters, the Disreputable Dog and Mogget the little white cat feature strongly and their unique characteristics and skills are essential in breaking the grip that evil has on the land.

Action, terror, magic, the Dead and the courage of Lirael, Sameth and Nick make this a wonderful read and fans will want to continue with Clariel, a prequel, and Goldenhand, as well as the short stories To hold the bridge. This is a series not to be missed and would be an excellent choice for libraries.

Themes: Fantasy, Good and evil, Magic.

Pat Pledger