So two days ago I read Sabriel, yesterday I read Lireal and Abhorsen, and today I think I have enough free time to read Clariel. They're certainly page-turners!
The Old Kingdom/Ancelstierre border, the dead, the bells, and the origins of the charter are certainly unique and set it apart from other fantasy. I haven't been amazed by the character development but the pacing has been spot-on. These have made a really compelling vacation read.