As a child, I always liked reading fantasy novels. In fact, my first chapter book was The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. After that first foray into the world of fantasy fiction, I knew there was no turning back! When I came across this novel, its premise reminded me of the books I used to adore as a child and teenager, and I knew I wanted to give it a go. So here is my review:
Sabriel’s father is the Abhorsen, a necromancer of great power and renown. It is his duty to protect the living from the dead that try to rise, while also ensuring that the dead transition through their respective Gates when it is their time. In order to ensure that she is kept safe, Abhorsen has sent Sabriel to a boarding school in Ancelstierre. During her time there, she has learned a great deal – but has not yet had any experience with Free Magic or the Dead who refuse to stay dead in the Old Kingdom. But when Abhorsen goes missing, Sabriel knows that she must leave the comforts of her school behind and venture out into the world to find him – and keep the Dead resting in their rightful place.
I really enjoyed this book. It had everything you would expect in a classic fiction tale, and was reminiscent of the Narnia series. Yes, there wasn’t detailed character development, but that is to be expected in this kind of a story, and it worked well within this frame. The plot moved along pretty well and the different characters that were introduced were intriguing to read about. I liked the whole story line of necromancy and the dead and the power to control them. The magic system that the author has created is unique and I’m eager to learn more about it (as I’m sure I will in the next book in the series)! Overall, it is a well-written and imaginative fantasy novel geared towards pre-teens/teenagers. So if you are looking for a present for someone within that age group, this would be the one to get!
Happy reading ~