The Goblin Gate
The Goblin Gate (Goblin Wood, Book 2)by Hilari Bell
He's willingly crossed over to the Otherworld with a hedgewitch named Makenna and her legion of goblins. What Tobin doesn’t know is that the Otherworld is a perilous dimension that leeches magic from those who have it—and life from those who don’t. In order to save his brother, Jeriah must find a way to open a mystical gate between the worlds.Searching for the key to rescue Tobin from the clutches of the Otherworld, Jeriah is thrust into a tangled web of political intrigue as he uncovers a dangerous secret that could change the fate of an entire kingdom. Now he must get help from the very beings he’s been taught to hate—the mischievous goblins. Meanwhile, the clock is ticking for Tobin. (goodreads.com)
This book sounded really interesting to me so I jumped at the chance to review it. My one problem? I didn't notice this was a sequel. Argh. The Goblin Gate would have been easier to get into had I read the first book, I am sure. There were many character relationships and personalities that I think I would have gotten had I read this series in order.I had a difficult time relating to any of the characters so I tried to focus on the story itself. Although confusing at first until I picked up enough clues in references to understand what was happening, the story is pretty rich in detail and action. I tried to read the book with my main focus on the current plot/mystery that Jeriah has discovered whilst trying to figure out how to get his brother out of Otherworld. This made the book much more interesting for me. I didn't really have an attachment to Tobin or the hedgewitch who were in the Otherworld since I didn't read the first book so I sort of found those chapters dull and uninteresting to me. I know I would have cared more had I known more about them.This is certainly a story that needs the first book read in order to truly enjoy. I'm a little disappointed that I made that error. Argh. BUT I can say that when the book ended I was all, "What? Wait! What happens now!?!?!" so I will be looking out for the third book next winter. I will make sure to have read The Goblin Wood first though! I'd like to make sure I don't miss anything important!I am happy to have finally read a book by Hilari Bell, too. I have had The Last Knight on my wishlist forever and just recently discovered that there are 3 more books after that one! I need to get on that train soon! I quite enjoyed Bell's writing style and imagination. The ONLY reason I had any difficulties with this book was due to not having read the first book in the series.I am not an expert on What Boys Read, but I feel that this series will appeal to the middle grade male reader if they like fantasy and adventure.Goblin Wood
- The Goblin Wood
- The Goblin Gate
- The Goblin War (December 2011)