This is a wonderful piece of fantasy.

Lirael, who doesn't know her father and whose mother is dead, is a great, deep character. On first glance she seems weak, not having the sight as the defining feature of her people. However, she is very skilled in magic. Her work in the great library of the Clayr also allows her to discover new things. On her side is a magical dog, who calls itself the Disreputable Dog. I loved her in particular. She acts as Liraels advisor and friend. Eventually Lirael discovers a hidden cave and her destiny. She has to leave the Clayr and go on a mission suggested by one of their visions.

The second main character of this book is Sam, the son of Sabriel. He is destined to be the next Abhorsen, following in his mother's footsteps. The only problem with this is, that Sam is afraid of entering the world of Death. His fear also hinders him from doing his studies of the Book of the Dead properly. Still he leaves the security of the palace to find one of his friends and help him. Sam is a contrast to Lirael. On first glance he seems to be strong, being popular in his school and a prince, but he has his weaknesses as well, foremost his inability to accept his duty as the next Abhorsen.

All events are overshadowed by a new threat presented by two powerful necromancers.

While I had my problems with finding my way into the world in Sabriel, I found this much easier in Lirael, probably because I was already acquainted with it. I liked the worldbuilding, the characters and the story in itself very much. Actually, there is only one negative aspect I have to point out, that is the open ending. The story finishes at a real cliffhanger and while I already intended to read the last part in the series, I would still rather have both be one book with the story being so intertwined. ( )