Marko D. Cabcoon

Just as its prior book, Sabriel, Lirael is a phenomenal story. However, where Sabriel can practically be read as a stand-alone, Lirael is the beginning tale in a bigger story.

Lirael has grown up as the “black sheep” of the Clayr and desperately wants to fit right in. While other daughters of the Clayr commonly have blond hair, she has darker black hair. While they have the Sight, an ability to see in the future, she does not. As each year goes she feels as though she may never be a true Clayr.

But after a few particular incidents, it becomes obvious she is much MORE than just a daughter of the Clayr. She is a wonderfully written protagonist with such a complex personality. She is relatable and strong and yet also delicate. She and the Disreputable Dog become the most amazing duo as time goes through the story.

On the flip side of this adventure is Prince Sameth. The Abhorsen-In-Waiting who would rather tinker and create things than walk in his mother, Sabriel's, footsteps. All thanks to a very frightening and traumatizing experience in Death while trying to save people he cares about.

The paths of Prince Sameth and Lirael cross as the story unfolds. All in a well-rounded story.

Every chance I had, I devoured the pages of this book... and then whimpered as the book ended.

Absolutely beautiful beginning to what one can see is an awkward and adorable relationship :)

This book was so well illustrated. The character's expressions were wonderful. Their personalities were wonderfully shown and written. The story was absolutely adorable. The ending, slightly predictable but well played out all the same.

All-in-all, I ate this book up and was happy with how it turned out.

“Counting Memories” a phrase that comes up many times in the story and honestly this phrase says a lot about the story. It is a beautiful tale that gives such insight to another's world through the telling of the memories they have kept.

I listened to the audiobook version of this story. Hearing the emotion, the weaving of memories as we jump around this timeline... It was beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. I normally can't focus on a story with a jumping timeline but this one was told in such a way that it held my attention for every step. Some memories spoken of certainly hit stronger than others but all are worth the listen. I don't have any words that can really do this story justice. I just wish I could give this story more stars.

It's beautiful. Its emotions feel raw and true. It is worth every second it takes to listen along or to read. Truly. I greatly recommend this book to anyone looking for a new read.

Following the events of Lirael in this book. Practically right after.

Prince Sameth, Mogget, Lirael, and the Disreputable Dog are all teamed up. Prince Sameth has learned he is meant to be the next Wallmaker, the major creators within this world. While also learning that Lirael is actually his aunt, a surprise to her as well, as she is Sabriel's half-sister. Lirael, also, is the true Abhorsen-In-Waiting. Which is a great relief to Sameth.

The two of them head out further on their journey, accompanied by the two Free Magic beings (Mogget and the Disreputable Dog) that are charter bound. They are trying to save Nicholas Sayre, a close friend of Sameth's, and stop an ancient power from being freed.

The characters, the story, the twists, and turns... I loved all of it. Every bit.

This series has yet to let me down.