The third book of the
Keys to the Kingdom by
Garth Nix continues exactly where the second book finished (
Grim Tuesday), with our hero Arthur Penhaligon, is in hospital suffering from another bout of
asthma and a broken leg.
However, being in hospital is no reason to refuse a summons from Lady Wednesday, the next of the
Morrow Days. At precisely half past four on Wednesday afternoon, a stiff piece of gold inlaid cardboard materialises next to Arthur. It proclaims;
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LADY WEDNESDAY
Trustee of the Architect and Duchess of the Border Sea
has great pleasure in inviting
ARTHUR PENHALIGON
to a Particular Luncheon
of Seventeen Removes
Transport has been arranged
RSVP not required...
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Suddenly he is whisked from his hospital-bed, and, with both asthma and leg healed by the mysterious magic of the House, he again journeys to meet Lady Wednesday. Throughout the story, he must battle a necromantic pirate, talking rats, and a rather large whale which eats everything in sight.
Again, this is a brilliant yarn spun from master of fantasy, equalling his efforts with his other best-selling trilogy, the Old Kingdom Trilogy (Sabriel, Lirael and Abhorsen). A definite must read, although it is aimed at slightly young readers than will read this (targeted for children between 9-14), although try it before you knock it!