Nix, Garth: Lirael

ISBN: 0060005424

From the Publisher

Lirael has never felt like a true daughter of the Clayr. Abandoned by her mother, ignorant of her father’s identity, Lirael resembles no one else in her large extended family living in the Clayr’s Glacier. She doesn’t even have the Sight -- the ability to See into the present and possible futures -- that is the very birthright of the Clayr.

Nonetheless, it is Lirael in whose hands the fate of the Old Kingdom lies. She must undertake a desperate mission under the growing shadow of an ancient evil -- one that opposes the Royal Family, blocks the Sight of the Clay; and threatens to break the very boundary between Life and Death itself. With only her faithful companion, the Disreputable Dog, to help her, Lirael must find the courage to seek her own hidden destiny.

In this sequel to the critically acclaimed Sabriel, Garth Nix draws readers deeper into the magical landscape of the Old Kingdom and weaves a spellbinding tale of discovery, destiny, and danger.

I picked this one up directly after Sabriel, because I wanted to read more about Touchstone and Sabriel. This one picks up with another character form the same area, and dealing with the same problems, but not necessarily with Sabriel and Touchstone. We do, however, meet their children, Sameth (their son) and their daughter (I can't remember her name, other than it was also a name of Sabriel's childhood friend). I didn't mind the switch, as we get to see their families and their struggles, as well as adding additional characters to the mix.

Lirael is a strong book in two parts, finishing with Abhorsen. It's a fantastic journey of growth, discovery, and has a lot to do with finding one's place in the world. I can't go into any detail, as even the slightest information will give away important parts of the plot - parts better left read. So do pick up Sabriel, Lirael and Abhorsen, and be prepared for an excellent journey through a land that combines modern technology and magic in such a unique way that you will remember this story forever.