I had Manchee's death spoilered over and over again, but like I said I did still expect him to come back until right at the end. If I'm honest I'd have to say even though I know he's dead, I don't really feel that he's dead, like if Ness had brought him back in the last book I wouldn't have been surprised. His writing just reads like that to me for some reason, even though in reality he's happy to kill of characters for good. I think it's the Aaron thing - that guy should have been dead about five times before he died.

What I didn't mention, but did feel deep down, is the description of the first time Todd wakes up after leaving Manchee behind. The way he forgets for a second that his dog is gone forever - ouch.