Review: Lirael (Old Kingdom Book 2)
Introduction
Garth Nix’s Lirael, the second book in the Old Kingdom series, expands upon the eerie and magical world introduced in Sabriel. First published in 2001, Lirael shifts focus from the original protagonist, Sabriel, to a new heroine—Lirael, a young daughter of the Clayr who struggles with feelings of isolation and self-doubt. Unlike Sabriel, which was largely a standalone story, Lirael is the first half of a duology that continues in Abhorsen.
The novel introduces deeper lore surrounding the Old Kingdom, particularly the Clayr, a group of seers who can glimpse the future. Lirael, however, is an anomaly among them, as she lacks the ability to See. Her journey of self-discovery, along with that of Prince Sameth—Sabriel’s son—forms the emotional and narrative core of the book. With its intricate world-building, compelling character development, and an ever-present sense of foreboding, Lirael stands as a rich and engrossing sequel that deepens the stakes of the Old Kingdom saga.
Plot Overview
The novel is set nearly 14 years after the events of Sabriel. Lirael, a daughter of the Clayr, has grown up in their glacier stronghold, longing for the ability to See the future, like her peers. Feeling like an outcast, she finds solace in books and becomes a librarian in the Great Library of the Clayr—a vast, mysterious place filled with forgotten knowledge and ancient dangers. While working there, she discovers her talent for Charter Magic and befriends the enigmatic, shape-shifting magical creature known as the Disreputable Dog.
Meanwhile, Prince Sameth, heir to the Abhorsen’s title, struggles with his fear of Death and his role as Sabriel’s successor. After a harrowing encounter with a necromancer, he becomes reluctant to embrace his destiny. As the kingdom faces increasing threats from the Dead, Sameth’s personal insecurities put him at odds with his responsibilities, leading to a parallel journey of self-discovery alongside Lirael’s.
The novel’s climax sees Lirael uncovering shocking truths about her heritage, realizing that she is not meant to be a Clayr, but something far different—and perhaps even more powerful. As dark forces gather, Lirael and Sameth’s paths begin to converge, setting the stage for the next book, Abhorsen.
Themes
Identity and Belonging
One of Lirael’s most profound themes is identity and the search for belonging. Lirael feels like an outsider among the Clayr, constantly questioning her worth. Her journey is one of self-acceptance, where she ultimately discovers that her destiny lies beyond what she initially desired. Similarly, Sameth struggles with the pressure of expectations, fearing that he is unfit for the role his parents have set for him.
Destiny vs. Free Will
Both Lirael and Sameth grapple with their perceived destinies. While others have defined their paths for them—Lirael as a Clayr, Sameth as the next Abhorsen—they must learn to carve out their own roles in the world. Their struggles highlight the tension between predetermined fate and the power of choice.
The Power of Knowledge
The novel heavily emphasizes the importance of knowledge, particularly through the Great Library of the Clayr. Lirael’s exploration of forgotten histories, ancient magics, and lost artifacts highlights the theme that knowledge, even more than magic, can be the key to survival. The Disreputable Dog, acting as both a guide and a mystery, represents the importance of asking questions and seeking truth beyond the surface.
Courage and Fear
While Sabriel was about duty, Lirael is largely about fear and overcoming it. Lirael fears she will never fit in, while Sameth fears his own weaknesses and the weight of his family’s legacy. Their growth throughout the novel centers on learning to face their fears rather than running from them.
Character Analysis
Lirael
Lirael is an incredibly relatable protagonist—intelligent, introverted, and longing for a place where she truly belongs. Unlike Sabriel, who was confident and duty-driven, Lirael begins as an uncertain and isolated young woman. Her arc is a beautifully written journey of self-discovery, as she learns that she is not meant to follow the path of the Clayr, but rather something entirely different. Her bond with the Disreputable Dog is a highlight of the novel, adding warmth and humor to her otherwise lonely life.
Prince Sameth
As Sabriel and Touchstone’s son, Sameth carries the weight of his parents’ expectations, yet he struggles with crippling self-doubt and fear. His trauma following a confrontation with a necromancer leaves him deeply shaken, making him hesitant to embrace his destiny as the next Abhorsen. His arc is compelling because it subverts the trope of the heroic prince—rather than immediately rising to the occasion, he grapples with insecurity and the pressure of legacy.
The Disreputable Dog
Mysterious, wise, and full of personality, the Disreputable Dog is one of the most beloved characters in the Old Kingdom series. Serving as Lirael’s guide and protector, she offers cryptic but insightful advice, much like Mogget did for Sabriel. However, unlike Mogget, the Dog is genuinely kind and caring, creating a touching contrast. Her true nature remains unknown for much of the novel, adding to her intrigue.
Mogget
Mogget, the sardonic, magical white cat from Sabriel, makes a return in Lirael. Though still bound to serve the Abhorsen, he retains his signature sarcasm and ambiguous morality. His interactions with Sameth are often amusing, but he also serves as a reminder of the darker forces at play.
Hedge
The novel’s main antagonist, Hedge, is a powerful necromancer serving an even greater evil. While his role is more of a looming threat in Lirael, his sinister presence adds tension, setting the stage for the larger conflict in Abhorsen.
Style and World-Building
Garth Nix’s prose in Lirael is lush, atmospheric, and immersive. He masterfully contrasts the stark, icy world of the Clayr’s Glacier with the decaying, haunted landscapes of the Old Kingdom. His descriptions of the Great Library, filled with ancient secrets, hidden dangers, and forgotten magic, make it one of the novel’s most captivating settings.
The magic system remains one of the Old Kingdom series’ strongest aspects. Charter Magic, Free Magic, and the necromantic powers of the Abhorsens are explored in greater depth, particularly with the introduction of the Dark Mirror—a tool that allows Lirael to peer into Death.
Unlike Sabriel, which was more action-driven, Lirael is a slower, more introspective novel, focusing heavily on character development and world-building. Some readers may find its pacing more deliberate, but the payoff is a deeply emotional and rewarding story.
Conclusion
Lirael is a rich and engrossing sequel that expands the Old Kingdom in new and exciting ways. While it introduces a more introspective and character-driven story than its predecessor, it remains just as compelling, thanks to its intriguing magic system, atmospheric world-building, and deeply relatable protagonists.
Though it ends on a cliffhanger, setting up the final installment, Abhorsen, Lirael stands as a powerful tale of identity, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace one’s true path. For fans of Sabriel, this novel adds depth and complexity to the Old Kingdom, making it an essential and unforgettable continuation of the series.
Final Verdict
A must-read for fantasy lovers who enjoy deep character development, immersive world-building, and a touch of dark magic.
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