(Amy) I have often mused to myself about what it would be like to find myself in the world of some story or other. I've rarely carried the thought experiment out to its logical conclusions, however - daydreams are generally more satisfying if you don't have to sort out how you'd go about brewing lice repellent with medieval-era materials, or worry about any of those deliciously horrifying villains stumbling upon you when they're out villaining, and you without the protection of the Power of Plot.

Of course, as Inkdeath - and the two preceding volumes - are themselves stories, the protagonists do indeed have the Power of Plot on their side as they continue their journey through Fenoglio's world (initially depicted in Inkheart), but for quite a few of the dips and twists of the story contained herein, it is quite possible to forget that - not to mention, when one does remember it, one often does find oneself wondering if maybe it's actually that kind of story after all...

A gripping tale, all in all, and highly recommended to anyone who enjoys exploring the concept of story (including metafictional ideas), or indeed who enjoys good-quality storytelling for its own sake.
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I always feel a little sad when a series comes to an end. And you just know this is going to be the end...with a title like Inkdeath...what else could you expect!?

Inkdeath is the third and final book in the Inkworld trilogy, and after the shocking conclusion to Inkspell, there was no way I was going to miss this one. Starting off immediately where Inkspell left off, which I can say no more about, as it will entirely ruin the ending of that book. Suffice to say, events are not particularly happy and the characters have to get themselves out of quite a mess in this book.

Inkspell really redeemed itself after the series got off to an iffy start in Inkheart. Characters were a little more fleshed out, plot developments were more intriguing and the Inkworld was very well described. Inkdeath had my attention throughout, not least because at least one of my favourite characters' life hung in the balance through most of the tale. However, the plot was a little disjointed, and the writing delved too often into quite deep metaphysical debates on whether or not we can shape our own destinies if everything is already written on the page. This is a concept that I am not sure many children would understand, nor would they want to give a great deal of thought to it. And to be quite frank, I lost interest in those parts of the story, and tended to skip the pages that concerned them, a habit I ususally try to avoid. Also, this book seemed a lot more violent than the previous instalments, which though it did not bother me, I can imagine being quite offputting for parents.

The ending was somewhat conclusive, though left the story open for further development...but I for one hope they leave it where it is. A somewhat unsatisfying conclusion for me personally, though it was not possible for me not to read it!

Loved this conclusion! Reviewed on my book blog. ( )

Volume three in the Inkspell series.

This review refers to the audiobook version only.

After spending almost 44 hours in my car with Mo, Meggie, Dustfinger, and all the other wonderful characters in the Inkworld Trilogy, I find that they've left a big hole to fill. It's been a long time since a series or trilogy has captured my interest in the same way. The story is rich and compelling with a constantly twisting and shifting plot.

Inkdeath is a much bleaker and darker book than its predecessors, and Orpheus (who plays a large role) may be the greatest villain of the trilogy. He is the villain that you love to hate!

My only disappointment in the final book was the narration by Allan Corduner. The first book's narrator Lynne Redgrave was fine. Inkspell's Brendan Fraser was fantastic - just the right amount of quiet mystery to his voice. Unfortunately, I found Allan Corduner's voice to be too nasal and cynical. Even Farid, who had been one of my favorite characters, comes off as a whining complainer in Corduner's rendition. If I hadn't already become attached to the characters, his reading style may have been enough to put me off. Skip the audio version for this book.

Still, the Inkworld Trilogy is a unique story with a gripping plot. Love, envy, uncertainty, hatred - Funke leaves no aspect of human nature untouched as the characters come to terms with themselves and the very nature of the Inkworld. Whether predordained or self-determined, all will find their destiny in Inkdeath.

3.5 stars for the audio version, 4.5 stars for the book
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