Old Kingdom Books in Order

Old Kingdom Series by Garth Nix

The Old Kingdom series by Garth Nix is a spellbinding fantasy saga set in a world where the boundaries between life and death blur. With its unique magic system, strong characters, and thrilling adventures, this series has captivated readers for decades. The books explore themes of courage, destiny, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

Publication Order of Old Kingdom Books

1. Sabriel (1995)
2. Lirael (2001)
3. Abhorsen (2003)
4. The Creature in the Case (2005)
5. Clariel (2014)
6. To Hold the Bridge (2015)
7. Goldenhand (2016)
8. Terciel and Elinor (2021)

Sabriel (1995)

Sabriel has lived most of her life in Ancelstierre, far from the magical dangers of the Old Kingdom. But when her father, the Abhorsen, goes missing, she must cross the Wall into the Old Kingdom to find him. Armed with her father’s magical bells and sword, Sabriel faces the Dead and Free Magic creatures in a desperate attempt to save him. This thrilling introduction to the series is a tale of courage, destiny, and the power of love.

Lirael (2001)

Lirael has never felt like she belongs among the Clayr, a group of seers who can glimpse the future. Without the Sight, she feels isolated and unsure of her place. But when a dark threat looms over the Old Kingdom, Lirael discovers her true purpose. With the help of her magical companion, the Disreputable Dog, she embarks on a dangerous journey that will change her life forever.

Abhorsen (2003)

The Destroyer, an ancient and malevolent force, threatens to break free and bring chaos to the world. Lirael, now the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, must confront this ultimate evil. With the fate of the Old Kingdom hanging in the balance, she ventures into Death itself to stop the Destroyer. This gripping conclusion to the original trilogy is a testament to bravery and sacrifice.

The Creature in the Case (2005)

This novella follows Nicholas Sayre as he tries to return to the Old Kingdom. Along the way, he encounters a Free Magic creature that threatens his life. This short but intense story offers a glimpse into the dangers of the Old Kingdom and the resilience of its characters.

Clariel (2014)

Set 600 years before Sabriel, this prequel tells the story of Clariel, a young woman who dreams of a simple life in the forest. But when a Free Magic creature threatens the city, Clariel is drawn into a web of politics and power. As she struggles to control her own magical abilities, she faces a choice that will shape the future of the Old Kingdom.

To Hold the Bridge (2015)

This novella introduces a new character, Morghan, who dreams of joining the Bridge Company, a group that protects the Old Kingdom. The story provides a fresh perspective on the world of the Old Kingdom and its challenges.

Goldenhand (2016)

Lirael returns to the Clayr’s Glacier, where she receives a message from her long-dead mother. The message warns of a new threat to the Old Kingdom: the Witch with No Face. With the help of her friends, Lirael must confront this danger and protect the kingdom she loves. This sequel ties together threads from the earlier books and introduces new challenges.

Terciel and Elinor (2021)

This prequel explores the origins of Terciel, Sabriel’s father, and Elinor, a young woman from Ancelstierre. As Terciel trains to become the Abhorsen, he meets Elinor, whose life is forever changed by the magic of the Old Kingdom. Together, they face a deadly threat that tests their courage and love. This story adds depth to the series and provides a fascinating look at the early days of the Abhorsen line.

Why You’ll Love the Old Kingdom Series

The Old Kingdom series is perfect for fans of dark fantasy and intricate world-building. Garth Nix masterfully combines magic, adventure, and emotional depth to create a series that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The strong, relatable characters and the richly imagined world make these books unforgettable.

Books Similar to Old Kingdom Series

• The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin
  A classic fantasy series with a focus on magic, self-discovery, and the balance of power.

• The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
  A tale of dragons, magic, and a young hero’s journey to save his world.

• The Graceling Realm Series by Kristin Cashore
  Stories of strong heroines, political intrigue, and unique magical abilities.

• The Keys to the Kingdom Series by Garth Nix
  Another imaginative series by Garth Nix, filled with adventure and mystery.