Abhorsen
Posted: July 15, 2011 Filed under: Book of Sand 1 Commentby Garth Nix
{ 2003 | HarperCollins | 518 pgs }
One of my fascinations with fantasy literature is the variety of interpretations of how magic works.
— Time out. That was maybe one of the nerdiest sentences I have ever written.
Anyway, at the risk of sounding ridiculous, I do think it’s interesting how different authors conceptualize the existence and use of magic. And Nix has a very unique approach (at least among the fantasy books I’ve read). Abhorsen is the third in a trilogy, the first two books being Sabriel and Lirael. It’s been a while since I read either, and I don’t think Nix did an adequate job of getting the reader up to speed. True, some of that may be my fault, for not remembering the plot in much detail. But I do feel that the author should give his readers a little something to go on.
I do remember that I loved Lirael. I thought it was phenomenal. Abhorsen, in my opinion, is inferior. Much like the Hunger Games trilogy, the second book builds on the first beautifully, but the third leaves something to be desired. Of course, Abhorsen completes the story, so if you’re interested in tying up the loose ends of Lirael, then you’ll definitely need to read the entire trilogy – but for now, I’d suggest you enjoy the first two books.
Buy Abhorsen on Amazon
P.S. After I read Sabriel, I suddenly realized that an old friend had recommended the series to me (as simply “the Abhorsen trilogy”) many years ago. I really do appreciate the recommendation.
Jarom
Mika
hilleries 
It may be the nerdiest thing you’ve said, but I’ve had long conversations on the subject. You’re in good company.
I read the trilogy in high school, and I really liked it. I also don’t recall much, but I think my assessment of it was similar to yours.
I am a big fan of Garth Nix’s writing in general, largely thanks to my friend Katie. I’ve read all of one and all but the last book of two other series of his… I should see if that last one is out yet.