I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Terciel and Elinor by Garth Nix Series: The Old Kingdom #6
Published by Hot Key Books on November 2, 2021
Genres: Fiction, Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult
Pages: 409
Format: E-Arc
Source: Netgalley
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The long-awaited new novel from multi bestselling Garth Nix, set in the much-loved Old Kingdom.
A thrilling, atmospheric dive into the history of the Abhorsen, featuring Sabriel's parents, Terciel and Elinor.
In the Old Kingdom, a land of ancient and often terrible magics, eighteen year-old orphan Terciel is learning the art of necromancy - but not to raise the Dead, rather to lay them to rest. He is the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, the latest in a long line of people whose task it is to make sure the Dead do not return to Life.Across the Wall in Ancelstierre, a steam-age country where magic usually does not work, nineteen year-old Elinor lives a secluded life, her only friends an old governess and an even older groom who was once a famous circus performer. Her mother is a tyrant, feared by all despite her sickness and impending death . . .Elinor does not know she is deeply connected to the Old Kingdom, until a plot by an ancient enemy of the Abhorsens brings Terciel to Ancelstierre. In a single day of fire and death and loss, Elinor finds herself set on a path which will take her into the Old Kingdom, into Terciel's life, and will embroil her in the struggle of the Abhorsens against the Dead who will not stay dead.
I was very excited to meet Terciel & Elinor, the parents of Sabriel and basically see where it all started. Sort of, I guess. But I am down for diving into this world and exploring with some new characters. While this is part of the series, you do not have to have read the previous books to enjoy. However, with all the foreshadowing and hints of the future, I would read in order. Just so that you can get the full experience.
In Sabriel we have very little information about her parents, this books adds to that information and provides their backstory. We also see more of Kerrogir and see him through the eyes of those who is not aware of his true nature. Which made it more interesting. And we get an understanding as to how kerrogir and Terciel ended up in the situation that they did.
There’s also lot of the Clayr and foreshadowing which made the story more interesting and feel similar to the original trilogy.
Terciel and Elinor is billed as a more romance type story rather than the twisted plots and danger of the other books, but I would not say that it is a full romance book. There is just elements of a romantic plot in a fantasy world.
I have to admit that this was not my favourite book in the series, I do prefer Lirael’s story, however this is a book that I will pick up everything I re-read this series. If you are after something new but want nostalgia then this is the book for you. I suggest you pick it up right now.
Now I’m wondering if another book of the series is going to come out, if so sign me up, because I cannot wait to devour this series all over again.
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