Garth Nix
397 pages
The long-awaited fifth installment in Garth Nix’s New York Times bestselling Old Kingdom series, for readers who enjoy series by Rae Carson, Kristin Cashore, Scott Westerfeld, and Cassandra Clare. Goldenhand takes place six months after the events of Abhorsen and follows the novella Nicholas Sayre and the Creature in the Case, which is featured in Across the Wall. Lirael lost one of her hands in the binding of Orannis, but now she has a new hand, one of gilded steel and Charter Magic. On a dangerous journey, Lirael returns to her childhood home, the Clayr’s Glacier, where she was once a Second Assistant Librarian. There, a young woman from the distant North brings her a message from her long-dead mother, Arielle. It is a warning about the Witch with No Face. But who is the Witch, and what is she planning? Lirael must use her new powers to save the Old Kingdom from this great danger—and it must be forestalled not only in the living world but also in the cold, remorseless river of Death.
This series is perfect for those seeking a YA fantasy with a strong female lead and minimal romance, featuring great queer representation, including a canonically asexual character.
The Old Kingdom series offers a rich and immersive world filled with magic and danger, perfect for those who enjoy a gripping fantasy narrative.
These YA books feature strong female characters who focus on saving the world without their gender being a central issue, making them refreshing and enjoyable reads.
This coming of age fantasy series is one I love and often revisit.