Holy man this was good, took me a while to read but whenever I did have time to I whipped through it it was so engaging. A really good peak at the pile of contradictions and frankly manipulation that is Lord Asriel, as well as raising some interesting questions as to the origin of Lyra’s somewhat “magical” character. The fairy influence on her life would certainly explain her talent for lying, although she might also just get that from her dad. I’m aware that Malcom reappears in the secret commonwealth, but I really would love some more of Alice as well. I liked her a lot. She’s relatable, the homely looking girl who lashes out because really she’s soft and emotional and is terrified of anyone seeing that.
Anyways. I love Philip Pullman. The man is a genius.