Witch + Cat

Sometimes I wonder if I like a book because I'm in the mood to read that type of genre, or because the book is actually really that good. In this case I think this applies. 

I was just in the mood to read an "easy" fantasy novel, but even if I wasn't, I think I still would've been absorbed in this world. 

 

Mostly in the point of view of Sabriel, we go on this journey to find her missing father, meeting strange and wonderful creatures along the way. To be honest (which I always am) the talking cat, Mogget, sold me. A witty character that made the journey a touch more interesting. Actually every talking cat in a book is always witty, must be a characteristic trait cats have. Not complaining.

 

It's a strange world Garth Nix has created, because south of the wall in Ancelstierre is a more modern setting, with electricity, cars etc. But as soon as Sabriel leaves and enters the Old Kingdom, it's like she steps back in time and your in a medieval fantasy setting. I thought this was a brilliant idea, it gave the best of both fantasy genres. Plus, I don't know how he did it, it just worked.

 

What I enjoyed most was the characters themselves. They weren't your typical hero, acting brave and courageous all the time, they are just like us if we were in their situation. Especially the two main characters (Sabriel and Touchstone), whose mission was to save the day. They were constantly afraid of the evil creatures trying to kill them, and instead of being like other heroes and fighting them, they just escaped. Something I would've done.

 

I don't want to talk too much about Touchstone (who is a guy by the way, hot one at that), because I'm trying to keep this as spoiler free as I possibly can. Especially when Sabriel and Mogget meet him for the first time. 

Let's just say he is a very interesting character that plays a big part in the story.

 

The magic aspect was placed so subtly that you just accepted this world for what it is. It's very hard for me to try and explain the different types of magic, so I'll just explain the main one, necromancy. Sabriel has the gift, just like her ancestors, to raise the dead. But unlike other necromancers, it's their mission to keep what is dead, dead. Putting them to rest for good. 

I just realised I'm terrible at explaining things without giving away spoilers. 

 

I hope you enjoyed my review, this was a book that I would recommend to anyone, especially if you love to read fantasy. Plus, Garth Nix is an Australian author, and I love to promote authors from my "home town."

If you have read the book, or just want to talk about it, please leave me a comment below. I would love to hear your thoughts.