Wow... I was really not expecting the ending at all. In fact, the ending is arguably the best part of all three books because it's so unexpected and so different from many others of the genre. Absolutely amazing!

It took me a while to read this because I honestly lost interest partway through. I started reading another book and then another and then I had completely forgotten I was reading this until I realized it was on my "currently reading" list here. Granted, it's not a bad little story, I just didn't like the changes in Petra's personality - though they were key to the plot and the story.

Totally worth the read!

This has been on my to-read list for a while, but a chance trip to a local Goodwill store put the second book in this duology front and center last Sunday. After finishing the book I was reading, I immediately started Eon and I'm so glad I did. I'm about to start Eona and have high hopes that it will be every bit as delightful as Eon.

Spoiler

When Eon/a first connected with the Mirror Dragon, I had a feeling that the Dragon was saying that his/her name was Eona and I was glad to be right. I'm still hopeful that the next book will prove that Eon/a actually is the Dragon herself. Or rather, a manifestation of the Dragon and with Dragon blood running through her veins. That would just make my day!

I'm so glad I finally read this duology. Both books were incredible and, while I can't say what my theory about the Imperial Pearl was without including spoilers

Spoiler

I was right about it being an egg, although I was wrong about the type. i thought it was an actual egg with a thirteenth dragon in it that would either join the rest or potentially replace a dragon to keep their numbers at twelve. I was pleased with the outcome of it being a renewal for all twelve dragons.

Also, while I don't choose books based on them including minorities main characters, I do celebrate those instances when it's done right. Lady Dela is one of the main characters (in the same vein as Hermione is a main character, for those who might want to disagree) and she is transgender. Lady Dela is physically a male (and scared to have the male parts removed with the technology present in this book), but identifies as a female. Her difficulties are included in this book. In her culture, she is celebrated as a Twin Soul and, in the Imperial court, called a Contraire. While not everyone of the Imperial court is understanding of her differences, the Emperor (both father, then son) treasure her and generally ensure her safety. Even when forced to dress like a man

Spoiler

because war requires disguises when you're on the weaker side and you're hiding

, Lady Dela is always referred to by her friends and in the narration as a female. I was worried when her character was first introduced, but am so glad that it was unfounded.

As I stated, I don't go out of my way to choose books that put minorities in main character roles, but I never turn them away as long as the book is good. I do have friends that choose their books that way and these will be highly recommended to them.

This was an extremely pleasant and quick trip back into Middle Earth to visit Bilbo. Also, the illustrations were absolutely lovely.

My full review is here on my personal website. I'll post a few excerpts here, though:

4.5 out of 5.0 stars

The very worst thing about this book is that we miss all of Sabriel’s lessons. She already has a better than basic grasp of her skills and what she has to do, so to some extent seems like she can do everything because of destiny or fate. Her schooling is addressed in the book where it mentions that she did learn things, but it never has the main focus of our attention.

The very best thing about this book is Mogget! Mogget is incredibly awesome, but I can’t say anything other than he’s a cat or I would give away spoilers. o_O

My full review is here on my personal website. I'll post a few excerpts here, though:

4.5 out of 5.0 stars

The very worst thing about this book is that a dog is a main character! Yes, that’s my only complaint.

The very best thing about this book is still Mogget! Although, I suppose the Disreputable Dog is pretty cool, too. For a nasty dog, that is.