Status
Available
Collection
Series
Publication
HarperTeen (2008), Edition: Reprint, 368 pages
Description
Abhorsen-In-Waiting Lirael and Prince Sameth, a Wallmaker, must confront and bind the evil spirit Oranis before it can destroy all life.
User reviews
LibraryThing member magemanda
In the Beginning there were nine Bright Shiners. One of these, Orannis, was also known as the Destroyer. Seven of the nine bound Orannis and broke his entity into two hemispheres. In the process they also bound Yrael - a Free Magic entity who was not willing to join the Charter. This binding and
These are the events that we deal with in Abhorsen. Lirael gave us the build-up - now Abhorsen gives the big reveal of the evil that must be stopped, and shows us how everything plays out.
I really enjoyed this book! The events were exciting, the writing was fluid and the plot moved along at a snappy pace. The dialogue was effective and sounded realistic.
I don't want to reveal what happens at the end, because I feel that the reader should discover this for themselves, but it was appropriate to the build-up and I enjoyed finding out more about both Mogget and the Disreputable Dog, who have been thoroughly enjoyable but mysterious characters all the way through.
The best part of this book is the sheer imagination on display. Since the first book, Sabriel, I have enjoyed learning about the Abhorsen's work and the art of the bells that control the dead. The descriptions of these bells - their names and the effects they have on both the dead and the wielder - are fantastic and an unusual form of magic. I also loved the path into Death, the Nine Gates that Lirael is forced to walk in this book. The use of the river, and the different gates, is written superbly and provides great tension.
I have enjoyed the fact that necromantic magic takes centre stage. Most often this is a very dark form of magic, and those with the ability are evil and twisted (much like Hedge). Seeing the Abhorsen using this magic as a force for good is very refreshing.
The battle between Charter magic and Free Magic is very effective - and bought to play best in the different forms of Mogget and the Disreputable Dog.
As before, I have small niggles that really didn't affect my overall enjoyment of the story. Here I felt that Hedge was a paper-thin characterisation - we didn't learn anything of his background or his attitude, or his reasons for bringing the Destroyer back to life. He was just Evil and provided an opponent for Lirael. In addition to this, Nicholas Sayre wasn't really utilised to a great extent either - I was never able to empathise with him, so the resolution to his story gave me less enjoyment than probably intended.
In my opinion, this trilogy deserves to take its place amongst childhood greats such as the Chronicles of Narnia and The Hobbit. It is excellently written and a breath of fresh air. Thoroughly enjoyable escapism.
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the co-operation of the Seven led to the creation of the bloodlines - the royal family, the Clayr, the Abhorsen - in the future. These carry the Great Charter in their blood - and are the only people able to prevent the rise of Orannis when the evil necromancer Hedge tries to unbind him.These are the events that we deal with in Abhorsen. Lirael gave us the build-up - now Abhorsen gives the big reveal of the evil that must be stopped, and shows us how everything plays out.
I really enjoyed this book! The events were exciting, the writing was fluid and the plot moved along at a snappy pace. The dialogue was effective and sounded realistic.
I don't want to reveal what happens at the end, because I feel that the reader should discover this for themselves, but it was appropriate to the build-up and I enjoyed finding out more about both Mogget and the Disreputable Dog, who have been thoroughly enjoyable but mysterious characters all the way through.
The best part of this book is the sheer imagination on display. Since the first book, Sabriel, I have enjoyed learning about the Abhorsen's work and the art of the bells that control the dead. The descriptions of these bells - their names and the effects they have on both the dead and the wielder - are fantastic and an unusual form of magic. I also loved the path into Death, the Nine Gates that Lirael is forced to walk in this book. The use of the river, and the different gates, is written superbly and provides great tension.
I have enjoyed the fact that necromantic magic takes centre stage. Most often this is a very dark form of magic, and those with the ability are evil and twisted (much like Hedge). Seeing the Abhorsen using this magic as a force for good is very refreshing.
The battle between Charter magic and Free Magic is very effective - and bought to play best in the different forms of Mogget and the Disreputable Dog.
As before, I have small niggles that really didn't affect my overall enjoyment of the story. Here I felt that Hedge was a paper-thin characterisation - we didn't learn anything of his background or his attitude, or his reasons for bringing the Destroyer back to life. He was just Evil and provided an opponent for Lirael. In addition to this, Nicholas Sayre wasn't really utilised to a great extent either - I was never able to empathise with him, so the resolution to his story gave me less enjoyment than probably intended.
In my opinion, this trilogy deserves to take its place amongst childhood greats such as the Chronicles of Narnia and The Hobbit. It is excellently written and a breath of fresh air. Thoroughly enjoyable escapism.
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LibraryThing member klarusu
This is the third book in the Abhorsen trilogy and it's here that all the ends come together. Whilst the first two books focus on two quite separate (although interlinked) tales, this brings together Sabriel, Lirael and Sabriel's children in the climax of the trilogy. Without giving too much away,
Again, a good tale, competently told. Not hands and fists above other writing in its genre but enjoyable nonetheless. It 'does what it says on the tin' and I'm looking forward to more tales from the other side of the wall.
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a satisfying end which leaves the reader waiting for more .... not everything seems completely finished; the Old Kingdom has more to tell, I'm sure.Again, a good tale, competently told. Not hands and fists above other writing in its genre but enjoyable nonetheless. It 'does what it says on the tin' and I'm looking forward to more tales from the other side of the wall.
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LibraryThing member seldombites
Abhorsen is the riveting conclusion to the Old Kingdom trilogy. As with the previous books, I really love the contrast between Ancelstierre - the world as we know it - and the Old Kingdom - a world of magic and mystery where the dead come to life and modern technology ceases to operate. In this
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book, the two worlds come closer together than ever before and both face total annihilation. Both Sameth and Lirael come into their inheritance and we finally discover the true natures of Mogget and the Disreputable Dog. This book, like the others, is a thrilling and engrossing read. Show Less
LibraryThing member phoebesmum
The last book in a trilogy and sadly predictable: you line up your Forces of Light, you line up your Forces of Evil. Who do you think’s going to win? But the Disreputable Dog lifts it above the average.
LibraryThing member felius
This is the final book of a trilogy. The first, "Sabriel", is a stand-alone novel and my favorite of the three. The second, "Lirael", has a much slower pace and is filled with the whinging of self-important teenagers. It also comes to an abrupt halt, with no resolution of the story whatsoever.
Despite all the whining, by the end of "Lirael" I liked Lirael herself and could even tolerate Sameth. I enjoyed Abhorsen much more - the kids were getting on with business instead of whining about it, and there was a lot more action.
I love the world of these books - it's different, and extremely well realised. There's a system of magic that just begs for further exploration, and I had no trouble suspending disbelief while I was immersed in this world.
Despite my dislike of the "false trilogy" approach (think parts 2 & 3 of "Back to the Future" or "The Matrix") these are well-written books and a great story. They're comfortably better than average - I recommend checking them out for yourself.
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Basically, "Lirael" and "Abhorsen" can't be read independently, while "Sabriel" can.Despite all the whining, by the end of "Lirael" I liked Lirael herself and could even tolerate Sameth. I enjoyed Abhorsen much more - the kids were getting on with business instead of whining about it, and there was a lot more action.
I love the world of these books - it's different, and extremely well realised. There's a system of magic that just begs for further exploration, and I had no trouble suspending disbelief while I was immersed in this world.
Despite my dislike of the "false trilogy" approach (think parts 2 & 3 of "Back to the Future" or "The Matrix") these are well-written books and a great story. They're comfortably better than average - I recommend checking them out for yourself.
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LibraryThing member alwright1
Lirael finally discovers the truth about her parents, and she and Sam both discover their true places as parts of the Charter as they race to save the Old Kingdom and the rest of the world from an ancient evil.
This is one of my new favorite series ever. The world, and the people, and the Charter
This is one of my new favorite series ever. The world, and the people, and the Charter
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were so true and interesting. I just want the story to keep going. Lucky for me it appears that there are a few more stories of this world in another collection by the author. Show Less
LibraryThing member Crowyhead
This is a very satisfying conclusion to Lirael.
LibraryThing member kawgirl
A friend got me hooked into this series, which starts with "Sabriel." The whole series is a good read and I was sad when I had finished the last book.
LibraryThing member olyra
even though it is my least favorite in the series, i love it. it is an amazing story.
LibraryThing member Nikkles
This is an extremely well written series. I only wish there was more books in them. They are completely appropriate for a young adult audience, but rich enough for an older audience. They have a moody darkness to them that I just love, while still being fast paced and interesting.
LibraryThing member HollyByGolly
All the books in this series are excellent, and this one is the culmination of all the characters trials, with such a climactic ending. This whole trilogy is a must read for fantasy fans.
LibraryThing member allify
Abhorsen is completely connected to the story in Lirael and therefore cannot be read alone. I enjoyed Lirael more, only because I was curious to who Lirael and Sameth really were, but as that mystery was solved, this book wasn't as compelling. However, it was still an extremely good read all the
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way to the end. That's the thing with endings - they don't often live up to the rest of the book, but I felt a complete sense of closure with Abhorsen and even a little hope for the future of the characters. Great read! Show Less
LibraryThing member Crewman_Number_6
I have enjoyed every moment of this series, yet I still feel as though I got 2 book for the price of 3.
LibraryThing member bikerevolution
I don't really need to write a review for this. If you read Sabriel and Lirael, then you'll probs wanna finish the trilogy. I don't want to spoil anything, but the world is basically over if our heroines don't bring their A-game.
LibraryThing member kpickett
The third book in the Abhorsen Trilogy, this is an excellent end to the story. Lirael has to find her mother and father and save the country she has come to love!
LibraryThing member vidroth
The final book of the "Abhorsen Trilogy." This is actually a continuation of "Lirael," more than a standalone book, and should not be read out of order.
In order, this is book 3 of the finest new fantasy series in 40 years.
"The Abhorsen Trilogy" is a vivid, beautifully written series with a superbly
Don't be alarmed if you see these in the YA section of the bookstore. Most of Nix's work is YA. These are not.
In order, this is book 3 of the finest new fantasy series in 40 years.
"The Abhorsen Trilogy" is a vivid, beautifully written series with a superbly
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realized, original fantasy world, and very likeable characters. I give these out as presents now to spread the word.Don't be alarmed if you see these in the YA section of the bookstore. Most of Nix's work is YA. These are not.
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LibraryThing member cinesnail88
This was a brilliant conclusion to a series I have loved for a very long time. I've reread Sabriel countless times, and as the series comes to a conclusion, the cast of characters has only become more intriguing and wonderful. Nix made me sad to say goodbye.
LibraryThing member Dog_Ogler
I agree with the previous review *except* (and it's a strong exception) for the "whiny, angsty teenagers" part. How funny to whine about the (alleged) whining of others! (Especially when those others are fictional characters!) This has come up a few times in reviews of this book and its prequel,
Lirael & Sam wouldn't be nearly as convincing if they were personally flawless & never struggled with a difficult emotion.
I'm sorry, but sadness, grief and loss are inescapable realities of life, and a person (especially a young person) going through them may not come across as perfectly composed and well-behaved (think about it: Lirael had no-one to talk to AT ALL! That means no social/emotional support of any kind). For anyone forced to go through these things, the last thing you need is some judgemental, emotionally constipated and underdeveloped onlooker who clearly has no idea about how to deal with these things themselves, hypocritically labelling you as "whiny & angsty". It's an understandable act of projection, because no-one wants to have to deal with such painful difficulties, but it also says a *lot* about our society & culture when even fictional characters can't be allowed some judgement-free space in which to work these things out. And if you have that much trouble dealing with this reality in fiction, good luck with real life! No wonder kids are binge-drinking. I can't blame them, when there's so little tolerance in our culture for the usual difficulties of being a young person.
Nix has bravely gone for emotional realism in fantasy fiction - an often unsuccessful writerly endeavour - and done it brilliantly. Bravo.
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and I find that saddening.Lirael & Sam wouldn't be nearly as convincing if they were personally flawless & never struggled with a difficult emotion.
I'm sorry, but sadness, grief and loss are inescapable realities of life, and a person (especially a young person) going through them may not come across as perfectly composed and well-behaved (think about it: Lirael had no-one to talk to AT ALL! That means no social/emotional support of any kind). For anyone forced to go through these things, the last thing you need is some judgemental, emotionally constipated and underdeveloped onlooker who clearly has no idea about how to deal with these things themselves, hypocritically labelling you as "whiny & angsty". It's an understandable act of projection, because no-one wants to have to deal with such painful difficulties, but it also says a *lot* about our society & culture when even fictional characters can't be allowed some judgement-free space in which to work these things out. And if you have that much trouble dealing with this reality in fiction, good luck with real life! No wonder kids are binge-drinking. I can't blame them, when there's so little tolerance in our culture for the usual difficulties of being a young person.
Nix has bravely gone for emotional realism in fantasy fiction - an often unsuccessful writerly endeavour - and done it brilliantly. Bravo.
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LibraryThing member t1bnotown
Lireal and Abhorsen by Garth Nix were better reads than Sabriel, with the parts of Lireal forcusing on Lireal being the best parts. Sameth can be really obnoxious. I recommend the trilogy.
LibraryThing member nm.spring08.t.keeton
This book starts with a violent twist that will send any involved reader stumbling back in surprise and devastation.
LibraryThing member tiamatq
This was an awesome ending to the trilogy! Lirael and Sam both play important roles, though maybe not what they expected as the story began. We get some long-awaited answers about the Old Kingdom's magic, the Dog, and Mogget. Yay! And, even better, we learn a little history about the Abhorsen
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family that paves the way for more stories! I think this was a very powerful ending (yeah, I cried) and I loved the way that Nix tied his characters' stories together. I can't wait for the prequel!!! Show Less
LibraryThing member mazeway
A very satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. Nix introduces some really interesting notions in this series. About 1/4 of the way in, I thought, well they must be very near what I thought would be the Final Confrontation, THEN what will they do? But it is a credit to the writing that the
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confrontation takes place at the end like it's supposed to and the story never drags. Show Less
LibraryThing member koalamom
Loved it. A marvelous conclusion to the trilogy by Garth Nix. It takes you in and you don't want to leave while you read how Lireal, who suddenly finds herself Abhorsen-In-Waiting to a sister she never knew she had. now must save the world for the Destroyer.
She'll need and use the help from her
She'll need and use the help from her
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family, both those she grew up with and those she has by blood but just met. Scar fices will be made but willing sacrifices they will be. Show Less
LibraryThing member danbarrett
A good book, though none of the books following the first in this series were as interesting, or as fun, as the first had been. Still enjoyed it, as I was on a kick for fantasy without much else to weigh it down, but there are better fantasy books out there.
LibraryThing member molliekay
Beautifully written conclusion to the Abhorson series. Sam and Lirael continue their journey to rescue Nick from the clutches of the evil necromancer, Hedge, and make a stand against The Destroyer.
Awards
Mythopoeic Awards (Finalist — Children's Literature — 2005)
Aurealis Award (Winner — Fantasy Novel — 2003)
CCBC Choices (2004)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2003
Physical description
8 inches
ISBN
9780061474330