Skulduggery Pleasant (novel)

Skulduggery Pleasant is a series of fantasy novels created and written by Irish author Derek Landy. The series follows the adventures of Stephanie Edgley, a twelve-year-old girl who inherits her eccentric uncle Gordon's mansion after his death. She soon discovers that her uncle was not merely a writer of horror fiction, but a powerful and respected sorcerer.

Stephanie is thrust into a world of magic, mythical creatures, and clandestine organizations. Taking on the name "Valkyrie Cain," she becomes the apprentice of Skulduggery Pleasant, a wise-cracking, impeccably dressed skeleton detective who was resurrected with magic. Together, they investigate supernatural crimes, battle evil sorcerers, and attempt to prevent the return of dangerous ancient forces.

The series is characterized by its blend of dark humor, action-packed sequences, and complex characters. It explores themes of identity, friendship, good versus evil, and the importance of making choices in the face of adversity. The novels are aimed primarily at a young adult audience, but appeal to a broader readership due to their engaging storylines and witty dialogue.

Each book in the series introduces new magical abilities, supernatural threats, and expands the lore of the fictional world. Recurring characters include sorcerers, elemental masters, vampires, demons, and other supernatural beings. Valkyrie Cain's personal growth and her developing magical abilities are central to the narrative arc throughout the series.

The main series consists of fifteen novels, beginning with Skulduggery Pleasant (2007) and concluding with Skulduggery Pleasant: Dead and Gone (2023). A sequel series, starting with Skulduggery Pleasant: Resurrection (2017), continues the characters' stories in a new era.