"The series as a whole is in good standing alongside Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy and C. S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia." — Booklist, starred review "The term 'page-turner' is often used, but not always justified. It is deserved here, tenfold. I really, really couldn't put the book down." — School Librarian "The most original new fiction of this kind ... thrilling and thoughtful." — The Times "Spiced with likable characters and an intriguing new magical ability - eagerly awaiting volume two." —Kirkus "This novel stands on its own and offers a satisfying conclusion even as it provides an intriguing setting and mythology for future adventures." — Publishers Weekly "An absorbing and fast-paced fantasy/mystery bursting with action and intrigue. The only question is: when will the next one come out?" — Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books