However, I was disappointed with Lirael, largely due to expectations set by the author in earlier works, and by the publisher in marketing the book.

First and foremost, all the other Garth Nix books that I've read were relatively stand-alone, and though this book said that it was a sequel to the stand-alone Sabriel, nothing was said that it was the middle of a trilogy. In fact, the book is the first of a duology, and unlike any other book by Garth Nix, it comes to an incomplete and unsatisfying ending.

The only major "mystery" set up and revealed at the end of the book is spoiled by looking at the cover of the book and/or reading the description of the main character. All the other mysteries of the book await the conclusion of the final book Abhorsen.

I also found the male character whiny and unsympathetic. I understand why the author made him this way, but didn't enjoy it.

Overall, I'd say wait and buy both Lirael and Abhorsen together. The book is still better then average, but will be disapointing both to a fan and to someone newly arrived to the trilogy.



ChristopherA (USA: CA) (2006/08/28):
Like others, I found Garth Nix' Sabriel to be a sleeper -- in fact, I think it was one of the best fantasy books in the last 10 years. If you haven't read it, go back and get it!

However, I was disappointed with Lirael, largely due to expectations set by the author in earlier works, and by the publisher in marketing the book.

First and foremost, all the other Garth Nix books that I've read were relatively stand-alone, and though this book said that it was a sequel to the stand-alone Sabriel, nothing was said that it was the middle of a trilogy. In fact, the book is the first of a duology, and unlike any other book by Garth Nix, it comes to an incomplete and unsatisfying ending.

The only major "mystery" set up and revealed at the end of the book is spoiled by looking at the cover of the book and/or reading the description of the main character. All the other mysteries of the book await the conclusion of the final book Abhorsen.

I also found the male character whiny and unsympathetic. I understand why the author made him this way, but didn't enjoy it.

Overall, I'd say wait and buy both Lirael and Abhorsen together. The book is still better then average, but will be disapointing both to a fan and to someone newly arrived to the trilogy.