Books in the series Old Kingdom

Step into the Old Kingdom, a land where the line between the living and the dead is thin and dangerous magic lurks in every shadow. Sabriel has spent most of her life at a safe boarding school in Ancelstierre, away from the supernatural threats of her homeland. But when her father, the Abhorsen—a powerful necromancer who keeps the dead from rising—goes missing, eighteen-year-old Sabriel must cross the Wall to find him. Armed with her father's silver bells and sword, she must venture deep into the realm of Death itself to battle a sinister Free Magic entity that threatens to consume the world.

Garth Nix’s Sabriel is a masterpiece of dark fantasy, offering a unique and chilling magic system that has captivated readers for over twenty years. This book is perfect for children who love immersive world-building, high-stakes quests, and strong female protagonists who must find their own strength in the face of overwhelming darkness. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in necromancy, epic battles, and stories that blend folklore with gritty realism. Fans of Six of Crows or Shadow and Bone will find themselves right at home in the atmospheric and haunting landscape of the Old Kingdom.

Highlights:

• A truly unique magic system involving seven musical bells used to control the dead.
• A powerful and determined female lead who grows into her destiny as the Abhorsen.
• A dark, atmospheric setting that masterfully blends high fantasy with elements of horror.
• Memorable companion characters, including the mysterious and sarcastic cat, Mogget.
• An epic struggle between life and death that explores themes of duty and sacrifice.

Step back into the enchanting and dangerous world of the Old Kingdom in Lirael, the spellbinding sequel to Sabriel. Lirael has never felt like she belongs among the Clayr; while her family possesses the Sight to see the future, she remains blind to the visions. Feeling like an outcast in her own home, Lirael's life takes a dramatic turn when she is thrust into a perilous mission to stop an ancient evil that threatens the boundary between Life and Death. Accompanied by her mysterious and loyal companion, the Disreputable Dog, Lirael must uncover her true identity and embrace a destiny she never imagined.

This epic fantasy is perfect for children who love immersive world-building, complex magic systems, and strong female protagonists. Garth Nix weaves a tale of necromancy, ancient libraries, and high-stakes adventure that is ideal for readers interested in dark fantasy and tales of self-discovery. It is a great choice for fans of His Dark Materials or The Chronicles of Narnia who are looking for a more mature and atmospheric reading experience.

Highlights:

• A rich, original magic system involving bells and necromancy.
• A deeply relatable protagonist struggling with feelings of isolation and identity.
• The introduction of the fan-favorite character, the Disreputable Dog.
• High-stakes adventure that explores the thin line between life and death.

Abhorsen is the breathtaking conclusion to Garth Nix’s legendary Old Kingdom trilogy. As the ancient and malevolent Destroyer nears its freedom, the fate of the world rests on the shoulders of Lirael and Prince Sameth. With the Abhorsen Sabriel missing, these young heroes must journey across a land besieged by dark necromancy and Shadow Hands. Accompanied by the mysterious Mogget and the faithful Disreputable Dog, they face an apocalyptic battle that pits the forces of Life and Death against total annihilation.

This epic fantasy novel is perfect for readers who love intricate world-building, high-stakes magic, and dark, atmospheric storytelling. Garth Nix masterfully blends elements of horror with a classic quest narrative, making it an ideal choice for fans of epic fantasy who enjoy complex magic systems. The emotional depth and moral choices make this a compelling read for teens and adults alike who are interested in stories about finding one's purpose in the face of overwhelming odds.

Highlights:

• An epic and unforgettable conclusion to a beloved fantasy trilogy.
• Unique magic system involving necromancy and the use of seven bells.
• Strong, well-developed protagonists facing immense personal growth and sacrifice.
• A dark and atmospheric setting that masterfully blends fantasy with elements of horror.
• Perfect for fans of high-stakes adventures and complex world-building.

Clariel is a gripping epic fantasy adventure set in the beloved world of the Old Kingdom, six hundred years before the events of Sabriel. This dark and dazzling tale follows Clariel, a young woman who finds herself trapped in the stifling city of Belisaere. While her family is embroiled in political intrigue and royal plots, Clariel longs for the simple life of the forest. However, when a dangerous Free Magic creature begins terrorizing the city, Clariel is forced to confront a hidden sorcery within herself that is as dangerous as it is powerful.

Perfect for readers who love complex world-building and morally grey protagonists, this novel explores the heavy burden of destiny and the cost of power. It is an ideal choice for fans of high fantasy who enjoy stories about strong-willed heroines fighting against societal expectations. Garth Nix delivers a masterclass in atmosphere, making this a great choice for teenagers and adults alike who are looking for a sophisticated and intense reading experience.

Highlights:

• A deep dive into the origins of the Old Kingdom's magic and lore.
• A compelling, non-traditional protagonist struggling with her own nature.
• Richly detailed setting filled with sorcery, intrigue, and ancient creatures.
• Explores themes of autonomy, choice, and the dangers of unchecked ambition.

Goldenhand is the thrilling fifth installment in Garth Nix’s legendary Old Kingdom series, a must-read for fans of high-stakes epic fantasy. Set six months after the climactic events of Abhorsen, the story follows Lirael, the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, as she adjusts to her new life and a powerful hand made of gilded steel and Charter Magic. When a mysterious young woman from the North arrives with a message from Lirael’s long-dead mother, a new threat emerges: the terrifying Witch with No Face. Lirael must embark on a perilous journey to the Clayr’s Glacier to stop a darkness that threatens both the living world and the cold river of Death.

This book is perfect for children and teens who love intricate world-building, dark magic, and resilient heroines. Ideal for readers interested in series like Graceling or Throne of Glass, Garth Nix continues to masterfully blend action with deep emotional resonance. It is a great choice for those who enjoy stories where the fate of a kingdom rests on the shoulders of a brave few. Parents will appreciate the themes of duty, sacrifice, and the strength found in heritage.

Highlights:

• Features a strong, complex female protagonist with unique magical abilities.
• Expands the rich lore of the Old Kingdom and the fascinating Charter Magic system.
• A perfect blend of high-fantasy adventure and dark, atmospheric mystery.
• Ideal for fans of Rae Carson, Kristin Cashore, and Scott Westerfeld.