The thing is, while this book is loads better than the first in the series in terms of plot and characters, that it unfortunately still has an ironclad grip on a deeply fatphobic attitude as well as some other points that just haven’t aged well at all, such as anti-Roma racism.
The core story is interesting and Jones presents some really original ideas but it’s impossible to enjoy it thoroughly because of these other aspects. The end result is something very middle-of-the-road because it’s clear there is a fun plot, yet it’s sadly written by someone who holds some very misguided opinions on certain people. ( )

Let me tell you that I wasn't that invested in this book, but then I decided to listen to the audiobook and that went by really fast. It's not that the book is bad, it's just that I am not the target audience. Since this is a children's book a lot of it was predictable and since I read "Charmed Life" first there was even less of a mystery in the plot to keep me invested. I didn't really care for Christopher Chant here and I would have preferred if he had stayed as the sort of mysterious figure that he was in the previous book. I enjoyed the first book a lot, but this one just didn't have the same charm for me even though I thought it was still an alright book in the end. I feel like reading this one first might be better than starting with "Charmed Life" because this one is a prequel to that after all. ( )

One of favorite series from Diana Wynne Jones. A bit outdated in its language in regards to race but overall very enjoyable. Creative and interesting fantasy world(s). ( )

I really like this book. Christopher is sweet, and the Goddess is amazing. ( )

(component - see primary entry) ( )