Product Description
Thirteen-year-old DaIne has always had a knack with animals, but it's not until she's forced to leave home that she realizes it's more than a knack -- it's magic. With this wild magic, not only can Daine speak to animals, but also she can make them obey her. Daine takes a job handling horses for the Queen's Riders, where she meets the master mage Numair and becomes his student.

Under Numair's guidance, Daine explores the scope of her magic. But she begins to sense other beings too: immortals. These bloodthirsty monsters have been imprisoned in the Divine Realms for the past four hundred years, but now someone has broken the barrier. It's up to Daine and her friends to defend their world from an immortal attack. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (282)

possibly my favorite ya series still
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

Loved this series so much more than the Alanna series (which I read first.)

Still the wonderful book I remember, BUT...
... This is still the wonderful book I remember from my childhood, and it was a pleasure to reread on the kindle.However, there are so many typos in the kindle version that I was surprised that it was even published.Characters names are frequently mispelled, and it is very distracting.I hope the editors manage to clean things up for the rest of the installments!

Dragons should lay eggs, not give birth
Eh, maybe it's because I haven't read any other of this author's books and started out with this one first, but the book was mediocre at best.Good idea, but insipid prose, nice, bland, boring characters, and towards the end she starts throwing in random griffins, dragons, and even a kraken almost as an afterthough/deus ex machina plot device.

But what really annoyed me was the dragon "in labor" toward the end of the book.Don't dragons typically hatch from eggs?I've never heard of one giving birth before, and the bit where the main character heals the dragon fetus in utero is just silly, not to mention that they're planning to feed it milk at the end.Who feeds a dragon MILK?Or any reptile, for that matter?

My Favorite Series
This was my first book by Tamora Pierce I read and it's still my favorite.The characters are multidimensional and easy to relate to.I love that she continues characters across series, letting each new addition be another window into the world of Tortall.Great for all ages.

Confusing and not capturing
Just finished "Wild Magic," and I'm not thrilled. It's okay, and I really enjoyed reading about Daine's finding a family after a hard past, but there's no clarity to the plot brewing behind Daine's training until the last two chapters of the novel, and there's very little clarity. The bronze threads, the "seeing" inside of animals when she heals people, the badger (though I'm sure that will be explained later on,) her death and revival, and many other aspects were very vague and confusing, and I'm left wanting to read a little more, but not three more books.
People seem to rave about Tamora Pierce as one of the best authors ever. I guess her work is just not for me.
In short, don't trust a majority opinion; read for yourself before you judge. You may be surprised. You may love her work, or not, but I don't think many people can argue that the ideas were really good; it was just how she presented them that is left to judge. ... Read more

Product Description
When Daine is summoned by the wolf pack that saved her life a year earlier, she knows she has to go. She and Numair travel to Dunlath Valley to answer the call. But when they arrive, Daine realizes with a shock that it's not just the animals whose lives are threatened; people are in danger too. Dunlath's rulers have discovered black opals in their valley and are dead set on mining the magic these stones embody. Daine learns that Dunlath's lord and lady plan to use this power to overthrow King Jonathan -- even if it means irreversibly damaging the land and killing their workers.

On a mission to save both her animal friends and her human ones, Daine has to master her wild magic in order to fight for the kingdom and triumph over the would-be usurpers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (112)

great series
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

Great series, overall. and better than the lioness series.

A Good read
I really liked this book, it was entertaining, a tad predictable but each book has it's ups and downs, the characters are made in a very realistic way and although there are a lot of them you can keep their varying personality separate from each other

About the only complaint is that the book has some misspellings and other grammatical errors that even I picked up on (I fail at language arts....)

Great book overall though

great read
Tamora Pierce is one of my all time favorite authors who could only improve upon her writing skills by turning out her books a bit faster.This book like most of her books has wonderful characterization and story line.The world she creates is intriguing and everyone in it seems real and fascinating.

Great book, bad Kindle edition.
I have often wondered why as a young adult I continually come back to Tamora Pierce books to get lost in the fun of reading them. I have now come to realize that it really is the little things that matter. The details of living in Tortall for Daine, the mythology that works well within the series and doesn't have many loose ends, and the humorous little mini-episodes between characters, developing lasting relationships that will last until the end of the Kel series.

The detail in Pierce's writing and her plots are always fun. Though there's always a familiar overarching plot in each book in the Tortall series, it never becomes repetitive and there's always an unexpected aspect. In this book, it starts small, but as the series progress the different magics that appear that Daine must master and serve the King with are always fun to read.

My only problem with the Alanna and Daine quartets on the Kindle edition are that the OCR errors are in abundance, about a mistake every 2 or 3 pages for me while reading on small/medium text. It makes for a terrible and distracting reading experience.

If you are considering buying this book on the Kindle, don't. It's much better in paper back because of all the text problems.

A good book, but mabey not the best...
Tamora Pierce, wonderfull author that she is, did it again. This was the first series of hers that I read, and I though that this book was a little bit of a let down after the first one. But I moved on and read the rest in the series, then the Alanna series, then Kel's, Aly's, and Bekas. After reading whatever I could get my hands on from her, I went back and read them all again. I was hesitant to read this one because in my mind, it had become a awfull, terrible disgrace of paper. But I did, and I was wowed. It had gotten better! I think I was to pre-ocupied with the first book to enjoy the seconed. It was better the seconed time, and I relized that it is NOT a wast of space,but a pretty darned good book in witch you learn a different side of Stormwigs, meet the wolves of the Pack, and watch Wild magic be mastered further. The plot is O.K., but I missed seeing old friends of the first book and the thrill of just meeting the main charecters and watching things just being intoduced. Over all, not my favorite, but an O.K. book. ... Read more

Product Description
Protector of the Small #3

At the age of 14 and standing five foot ten, Keladry of Mindelan is a squire. A squire serves and learns from a seasoned knight for four years, then faces a final test. That final test is the Ordeal, which takes place in a magical room called the Chamber. There, a squire encounters the parts of him- or herself that the Chamber deems the most difficult to face–be they fears, failings, or unrepented wicked deeds. Does Kel have what it takes to survive the Ordeal?Amazon.com Review
In Book 3 of Tamora Pierce's Protector of the Small sequence, 14-year-old Keladry of Mindelan is ready to begin training as a squire after undergoing four grueling years as the first girl to be officially educated as a page. Disappointed at first that Lady Alanna (whom we first met in the Song of the Lioness Quartet series) does not choose her, Kel is delighted when gruff, good-natured, down-to-earth Lord Raoul takes her on. The next four years prove to be tough but happy, for the most part, as Raoul and most of the others in the King's Own (a corps of 300 men--299 now, plus Kel--that enforces the law and helps local nobles deal with problems such as centaur attacks and forest robberies) treat Kel as an equal. Throughout, Kel is physically and mentally preparing herself for the final test in the Chamber of the Ordeal, in which fourth-year squires must successfully face their greatest fears before becoming knights.

In this sequel to First Test: Protector of the Small and Page: Protector of the Small, Kel continues to be an admirable role model: stoutly loyal, strong, independent, honest, yet very real in her fears and weaknesses. Romance lurks for the budding adolescent as she develops a crush on one fellow and begins a sweet kissing-only relationship with another, after a very frank discussion about sex with her mother. Although the buildup to the Ordeal is watered down a bit by Kel's periodic visits to the Chamber door for a taste of what's to come, overall, this latest in Pierce's series is a rousing tale of chivalry and heroism that any reader will be sorely challenged to put down. (Ages 12 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Customer Reviews (197)

great series
Tamora Pierce is one of my all time favorite authors who could only improve upon her writing skills by turning out her books a bit faster.This book like most of her books has wonderful characterization and story line.The world she creates is intriguing and everyone in it seems real and fascinating.

Great Reading
Thank you for being so honest in realying the condition of your books. We received the book promptly and in great condition. Thanks.

Squire: Book 3 of the Protector of the Small Quartet
Received books on CD's quickly. Can't wait the rest of Tamora Pierce's books to come out on CD.

Tamora Pierce continues to delight and surprise
Squire is easily my favorite book out of anything Tamora Pierce has written. Kel is such a wonderfully strong female protagonist. Although I loved the Song of the Lioness quartet, the Protector of the Small novels have brought something new and fresh to the table. Squire in particular is very much a coming of age novel, the story of a young lady going against tradition without the gods of Tortall watching her, or the Gift to use. Kel is discovering the imperfections of her society, finding love in the most unexpected places, and pressing on to follow her dreams of becoming the first known female knight to try for her shield in two centuries. I love the new length of this book; it is a bit longer but certainly a page turner! We follow Kel through some heart-warming and heart-stopping adventures.
Now that Kel is a squire to one of the most famous knights in Tortall, she no longer has her peers to help support her as they did during her page years. We do however meet one of Tamora Pierce's more dashing characters in the series: Neal's cousin Domitan of Masbolle who has Neal's dashing looks without his sharp tongue to go along. We also meet some of the Yamanis from Kel's past before she came to train at the palace. But we certainly don't lose track of Neal, Merric, Prosper, Owen, Cleon, and Roald. They come and go throughout the book, each with their own battles and tribulations.
Squire is a wonderful contribution to the Protector of the Small quartet, and a must read for any adolescent girl (or boy) who wants to dive into a new and exciting world that truly hits hits home. It sets up for the concluding book of the quartet, with cliffhanging clues to Kel's future.

Kel is now a squire....for Lord Raoul!
Kel is now a squire and is worried that nobody will pick her because she's female. But...dispite the fact that Keladry desperatly wanted Lady Alanna to ask she is still overjoyed when Lord Raoul of Goldenlake whom can sometimes be known as the Giant Killer asks Kel. Raoul is very high ranked and one of Lady Knight Alanna's best friends so...why is he picking Kel? Because he thinks she's good.

Since Lord Raoul is the leader of the Kings Own Keladry gets to go with him all the time on missions and goes into various battles. Though she is living her dreams she is still nervous...the Chamber of the Ordeal is coming up quick and Kel still has to push aside her secret romance.

Read 'Squire'. It's a wonderful book but it would be best to read 'First Test' and 'Page' first. ... Read more

Product Description
Beka Cooper, the heroine of Terrier, is no longer a Puppy.

She's a Dog now—a full-fledged member of the Provost's Guard, dedicated to keeping peace in Tortall. But there's unrest throughout land. Counterfeit coins are turning up in shops all over the capital city of Corus, and the nation's economy is on the brink of collapse.

The Dogs discover that the counterfeit money seems to originate in Port Caynn. So Beka heads upriver to investigate, traveling with her mentor, Goodwin; Achoo, a hound whose nose is as sharp as her claws; and the pigeon Slapper, who carries the voices of the dead.

In Port Caynn, Beka delves deep into the gambling world, where she meets a charming banking clerk named Dale Rowan. Beka thinks she may be falling for Rowan, but she won't let anything—or anyone—jeopardize her mission. From the Silversmith's Guild to the Provost's House to the city sewers, it won't be enough for Beka to be her usual Terrier self. She'll have to learn from Achoo how to sniff out the criminals—to be a Bloodhound. . . . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (56)

Good, but not for younger teens
I have enjoyed Tamora Pierce's books for some time, and the Bekka Cooper series is her best since her Wild Mage series.It is well written with a plausible history of early Tortall, interesting characters and a pretty decent mystery in the middle of it.

Bekka is a strong female lead who has to overcome personal insecurities and the prejudices of others to acheive her dream to be a "dog", or policewoman, in an early Tortall.She uses her magic and her brains, but mostly she uses sheer determination to win the day.You can't help but like Bekka, even when she is going through the worst of her adolescent growing pains.

Having said that, few of Ms. Pierce's series are appropriate for younger readers, and the Bekka Cooper series is not among those that are. The police in Bekka's town, including Bekka, take bribes from both criminals and those wishing their protection; Bekka engages in sex with a man she barely knows; and there is a certain amount of emphasis on sexuality in general, including discussions of prostitution.My 15 year old son loves this series, but we do discuss the various moral and sexual issues raised in the books, and I wouldn't recommend the series for those under 14.

Not appropriate for 7th grade
Might be a well-written book but highly inappropriate references to sex and relationships for a 12 year old girl.Never would have purchased; extremely disappointed in the marketing.

Bloodhound by Tamora Pierce
This book was great.One of the best works of Tamora Pierce!!The story started slow but sped up a quarter of the way through.All in all it was worth buying it and I will definitely read this book again and again.:)

Bloodhound
It is up to Tamara Piece's standard. A good read with an interesting main character.It connects to the later stories. The story moves along rapidly and keeps one entertained and reading.

Not the best, but still exciting
I love Tamora Pierce, but this isn't my favorite book that she has written. The plot is a little slow in the middle, when Beka travels from one city to the next, but overall it is still a good read. The characters are fun and the action is exciting.A must read for fans of Pierce and the Tortall world; however, if you haven't read any of her books, I recommend Alanna: The First Adventure (Song of the Lioness, Book 1). ... Read more

Product Description
"Let her prove herself worthy as a man."

Newly knighted, Alanna of Trebond seeks adventure in the vast desert of Tortall. Captured by fierce desert dwellers, she is forced to prove herself in a duel to the death -- either she will be killed or she will be inducted into the tribe. Although she triumphs, dire challenges lie ahead. As her mythic fate would have it, Alanna soon becomes the tribe's first female shaman -- despite the desert dwellers' grave fear of the foreign woman warrior. Alanna must fight to change the ancient tribal customs of the desert tribes -- for their sake and for the sake of all Tortall.

Alanna's journey continues... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (121)

classic ya series
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

Good series, overall. but prefer the Immortals series.

best series by a wonderful author
I read Tamora Pierce years ago and loved her books.I was so glad to see that she started writing again b/c all of her new books are great.However, her original Alanna series will always remain my favorite b/c the characters are so original and the story is so intriguing.

What's Alanna to do?
In Alanna's 3rd book, she becomes a Bazhir shaman. Not only that, but she doesn't know whom to pledge her love to. Jon or George? Who will it be?

love it
I first read this book a long time ago in middle school and I still have the full series both Lioness and the Immortals they are no joke bound with duck tape because over the last 11 years or so I have read them soo many times that they are indeed falling apart and I just had to replace my In the Realm of the Gods copy because half the book fell out.Once my kids get a little bit bigger these books will be read to them and I hope that when they get even older that they will pick up these books and read them over and over again like I did!

Encountering the Bazhir
Book 3 in the Song of the Lioness series
An excellent third book in the series which moves away from the court of Tortall and sees Alanna, now a recognised knight and revealed as a woman, encountering the Bazhir. The Bazhir are a proud people who do not traditionally value women as warriors but who accept Alanna as one of them.
This book explores the rights of people from different backgrounds as well as expanding upon the rights of women. It becomes easier to identify with Alanna as she deals with her bad temper but has to learn to fit in even whilst she maintains her individual identity.
Girls of all ages and backgrounds will find encouragement here to learn to fit in yet also find out who they are. ... Read more

Product Description
"From now on I'm Alan of Trebond, the younger twin. I'll be a knight."

And so young Alanna of Trebond begins the journey to knighthood. Though a girl, Alanna has always craved the adventure and daring allowed only for boys; her twin brother, Thom, yearns to learn the art of magic. So one day they decide to switch places: Disguised as a girl, Thom heads for the convent to learn magic; Alanna, pretending to be a boy, is on her way to the castle of King Roald to begin her training as a page.

But the road to knighthood is not an easy one. As Alanna masters the skills necessary for battle, she must also learn to control her heart and to discern her enemies from her allies.

Filled with swords and sorcery, adventure and intrigue, good and evil, Alanna's first adventure begins -- one that will leard to the fulfillment of her dreams and the magical destiny that will make her a legend in her land.

Alanna's journey continues...Amazon.com Review
Call it fate, call it intuition, or just call it common sense, but somehow young Alanna knows she isn't meant to become some proper lady cloistered in a convent. Instead, she wants to be a great warrior maiden--a female knight. But in the land of Tortall, women aren't allowed to train as warriors. So Alanna finds a way to switch places with her twin, Thom, and take his place as a knight in training at the palace of King Roald. Disguising herself as a boy, Alanna begins her training as a page in the royal court. Soon, she is garnering the admiration of all around her, including the crown prince, with her strong work ethic and her thirst for knowledge. But all the while, she is haunted by the recurring vision of a black stone city that emanates evil... somehow she knows it is her fate to purge that place of its wickedness. But how will she find it? And can she fulfill her destiny while keeping her gender a secret?

With Alanna: The First Adventure, veteran fantasy author Tamora Pierce has created a lively, engaging heroine who will charm middle-school readers with her tomboyish bravado and have them eagerly searching for the next book in the Song of the Lioness series. Like Brian Jacques's tales of Redwall, this popular quartet is an entertaining fantasy series for younger teens. (Ages 10 to 13) --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Customer Reviews (594)

the struggle to make it in a man's world
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

I actually read this in high school and it made quite a huge impact on me since it was the first of its kind that I read.Since then, there have been many stories with similar elements.This one is still very good but I prefer the Immortals series which was somehow less gritty and depressing (to me, there is very little humor, but you follow her growth and struggle to reach her dreams in a man's world.)

I loved these when I was a teenager, and they still entertain.
I really enjoyed this whole series.I read it when I was about 13, and devoured the whole series in a few days. But, now that I'm a mom, I don't think I'd let my kids read it-- it has been a while since I've read them, but I think I recall that the author has the whole "casual sex is cool, just don't get pregnant" type of mentality that Mercedes Lackey also writes about-(I also love Mercedes Lackey, I've re-read her Talia/Vanyel/Kerowyn/Tarma & Kethry books more times than I can count), and it's a mentality that I don't want my daughters exposed to until they are old enough to understand that Mommy and Daddy say that's WRONG (Buffy flashback, anyone? The episode where Faith took over Buffy's body?? Anyone??)

The Best Series Ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I read this book in third grade and wasimediatley hooked and have now read all of Tamora Pierces books but the Circle of Magic.This series is my favorite series ever and I love Alanna and George.Tortall is a world I would love to live in!!!

Be careful o f the age of girls you're giving this book to
After reading several reviews of this book, I picked and ordered the book for my daughter's 10 year old book club. I thought it would be an exciting change of pace for them. I didn't realize the chapter "Womanhood" would be in there - several girls haven't learned everything about "growing up" yet and I felt terrible I was starting the discussions. So although several reviews say every 10 year old should read this - I would up the age to 12!

A truly amazing fantasy.
If you are looking for a sequel based, easy to read fantasy, THIS IS IT! ... Read more

Product Description
Collected here for the first time are all of the tales from the land of Tortall, featuring both previously unknown characters as well as old friends. Filling some gaps of time and interest, these stories, some of which have been published before, will lead Tammy's fans, and new readers into one of the most intricately constructed worlds of modern fantasy. ... Read more

Product Description
Kel fights to maintain the rigorous regimen of a page while confronting the prejudices that come with being a female in a man’s world and coping with a crush on her closest friend, Neal.
“Pierce makes Kel sweat for her success through perseverance, hard work,
and skill. Readers will appreciate this true example of grrrl power.”
—School Library JournalAmazon.com Review
As the only female page in history to last beyond the first year of formal training to become a knight, 11-year-old Keladry of Mindelan has an uphill battle to fight. In addition to proving herself worthy of being a page, Kel spends her time defending first-year pages from bullies, staying on top of homework, conquering her paralyzing fear of heights, and keeping up with Lord Wyldon's grueling physical training schedule. Kel's detractors do everything in their power to thwart her progress, from tormenting her friends to sabotaging the Midwinter Festivities to kidnapping her maid and dog on the day of final examinations. The tide of resistance begins to turn slightly during the summer between Kel's second and third years, when she leads a team of pages in defensive maneuvers against renegade bandits--coincidentally on the same day that she gets her first period!

Tamora Pierce revisits the imaginary Kingdom of Tortall in this sequel to First Test: Protector of the Small. Fans of Pierce's exotic fantasy sequences will be hard-pressed to put either book down. Kel is a valuable role model: she's proud of being a girl, and she never wavers in her conviction that she can do anything a boy can--and usually do it better. Some rather bloody battles as well as discussions about Kel's developing body make this book appropriate for more mature readers. (Ages 10 to 14) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Customer Reviews (120)

great book
Tamora Pierce is one of my all time favorite authors who could only improve upon her writing skills by turning out her books a bit faster.This book like most of her books has wonderful characterization and story line.The world she creates is intriguing and everyone in it seems real and fascinating.

GIRLS RULE! -alysalovesbooks:)
yeah.....this book is totally about how girls can do same things as guys. i totally agree. Kel the heroine is brave patient and endures everything she encouters wisely. Girls....you should read this and the other books of the series too. Kel is a very good example to look up to as an idol.

The Series Gets Even Better!
IF, for some reason, you were disappointed in the "First Test", keep on reading. "Page" and "Squire" are so much better.

At the end of "First Test", Kel had struggled through her first probationary year, and managed to get permission to return from the taciturn and conservative knight trainer, Lord Wyldon. In "Page", Kel picks up an odd list of friends, including a beat up dog, some sparrows, and a maid who becomes the counter to her inherent strengths.

Like Alana, Keladry faces off with bullies amongst the other squires and pages, but unlike Alana she takes a harder stand against the hazing; which earns her enemies that are definitely more dangerous than any Alana faced.

A really good book. Lots of adventure. I recommend it.

Talking Points:::
"Page" is a good adventure book which addresses some more serious issues. I really like Pierce's, and consequently Kel's, harder stance against hazing and bullying in this book. Pierce addresses these issues more realistically, and demonstrates to the reader that small crimes can lead to larger ones.

Pam T~
mom and reviewer at BooksforKids-reviews

Read it again and again
I'm truely glad to have found Tamora Pierce at such an affordable price. I can get more of her books for my daughter. It's all she reads and she reads them quickly too. Thank you for sending them so quickly.

Tamora Pierce
I love Tamora Pierce books I have all of them that are available on CD...Amazon was the lowest price around and I checked them all... ... Read more

Product Description

Having achieved her dream of becoming the first female knight errant, Alanna of Trebond is not sure what to do next. Perhaps being a knight errant is not all that Alanna needs....But Alanna must push her uncertainty aside when a new challenge arises. She must recover the Dominion Jewel, a legendary gem with enormous power for good -- but only in the right hands. And she must work quickly. Tortall is in great danger, and Alanna's archenemy, Duke Roger, is back -- and more powerful than ever. In this final book of the Song of the Lioness quartet, Alanna discovers that she indeed has a future worthy of her mythic past -- both as a warrior and as a woman. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (183)

classic ya series
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

Good series, overall. but prefer the Immortals series.

I think the reason I both liked and disliked this series is George.He was the only character in this series I actually liked wholeheartedly and felt he deserved better than Alanna finally coming back to him after doing everything else on her list.

My favorite series
Its been years since I've read this series. I recently repurchased the books for my Kindle. I read and reread these books until the covers fell off. *Spoiler* Thinking about Liam still makes me sad, I was so attached to these characters.

best series by a wonderful author
I read Tamora Pierce years ago and loved her books.I was so glad to see that she started writing again b/c all of her new books are great.However, her original Alanna series will always remain my favorite b/c the characters are so original and the story is so intriguing.

love it
I first read this book a long time ago in middle school and I still have the full series both Lioness and the Immortals they are no joke bound with duck tape because over the last 11 years or so I have read them soo many times that they are indeed falling apart and I just had to replace my In the Realm of the Gods copy because half the book fell out.Once my kids get a little bit bigger these books will be read to them and I hope that when they get even older that they will pick up these books and read them over and over again like I did!

disappointed after the first two books
I really enjoyed the first two books in the quartet; they were amazing. The author brought the storyline together and built likable characters. Alanna's character was solid and endearing as well as the other characters. Made me want to go out and purchase the other two books. Having read a few of Pierce's other works, I had no qualms about buying these last two books in the quartet. I was aghast. A strong, determined woman does not have to be one who is also promiscuous. My goodness! Was Alanna willing to sleep with anyone who was interested?? Would not want our young girls getting it confused. A female does not have to be a bed hopper in order to be successful or strong. So, if you have issues with unrestrained sexuality, do not read these last two books. Just enjoy the first two and call it a day. ... Read more

Product Description
Tamora Pierce begins a new Tortall trilogy introducing Beka Cooper, an amazing young woman who lived 200 years before Pierce's popular Alanna character. For the first time, Pierce employs first-person narration in a novel, bringing readers even closer to a character that they will love for her unusual talents and tough personality.

Beka Cooper is a rookie with the law-enforcing Provost's Guard, and she's been assigned to the Lower City. It's a tough beat that's about to get tougher, as Beka's limited ability to communicate with the dead clues her in to an underworld conspiracy. Someone close to Beka is using dark magic to profit from the Lower City's criminal enterprises--and the result is a crime wave the likes of which the Provost's Guard has never seen before.


From the Hardcover edition.Amazon.com Review
Tamora Pierce has been creating strong, appealing heroines for teen fantasy fans for years, creating 2 main universes to house her multiple series. With Terrier, Pierce returns to the Tortall universe (home to her Song of the Lioness, Immortals, Protector of the Small, and Daughter of the Lioness series). Want to learn more? Read an exclusive essay from Tamora Pierce below. --Daphne Durham

Customer Reviews (98)

Family of 4 all love this series.
I enjoyed the book immensely. We first listened to it on a long drive, and then read the book. My wife and daughter (13) have re-read the book several times. My 10 yr old son is reading the series after listening to it (we have both books and audio books). I like the mix of seriousness, humor, immersion and suspense. I would recommend this to any friend/family.

Interesting format, great book
Haven't read many books in this strict diary format, but once you get beyond the lack of chapters and the dialect you are in for a great police / minor magic story.I just discovered this author, I love her stories and she is great for my teen daughter, oh and Trickster's choice is even better than this series 6 stars out of 5 if possible.

Fun
I read a couple Tamora Pierce books as a kid and liked them well enough; I'm out of her intended age group now, but still enjoyed this book.

Terrier is the story of a teenage girl, Beka Cooper, and her first months in the City Watch (known as the "Dogs") of a medieval-ish city. Beka works in the roughest part of town and soon finds herself pursuing criminals who extort and murder its inhabitants. Although I'm not into police novels, the premise pulled me right in: I'm a sucker for fantasy focusing on the lives of regular people. As for the fantasy label, there is some magic here, but it takes a secondary role behind the plot and characters, as well it should.

As for those essential elements, I found the plot entertaining and the characters endearing if not incredibly well-developed. Beka is a great protagonist and I enjoyed seeing her growing confidence in herself as she fought crime and made friends with her fellow Dogs and her neighbors. The exploration of the ancient police system was especially interesting: the characters take bribes in return for providing protection and often have personal relationships with the criminals. (The one aspect that seemed odd was that they could just walk the streets and stumble across an endless number of crimes in progress--a little bizarre.) I was also intrigued by Beka's difficult relationships with her siblings, who are servants and don't quite know how to relate to her.

The biggest issue with this book, as others have said, is the diary format. It doesn't get in the way too much--for the most part, the book reads like any other first-person narrative, and Beka has a strong voice--but it doesn't seem to add anything and it's terribly contrived. I'm an avid journaler myself, and there's simply no way Beka would have time to write all this, or remember as much word-for-word dialogue as she does. (A chronic problem with novels written in journal form, and probably the reason they're rarely seen outside of kids' and YA books.)

Finally, the gender equality within the ranks of both the Dogs and the criminal gangs made me raise my eyebrows. The Dogs fight with batons and the gang members with swords; even in a society without strict gender roles, most women would not be able to match a man using weapons that depend on physical strength. No explanation is given in the book. I understand that Pierce wants to empower teenage girls, and I respect that; I see nothing wrong with a few female fighters. Still, my desire for realism wasn't quite met.

Overall: a fun book. I'd recommend to teens or adults. The subject matter may be inappropriate for younger kids, however; this is more mature than many of Pierce's other books.

U HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK
i m in luv with tamora pierce!i m a younger one of her readers and this is my second serious of hers im reading and i love it.
i read the lioness quartet and the chareters places and ideas r all combined

this book held my intrest very much.beka cooper is someone who would be a wonderful person to meet.the dogs life is a dangerous one and it gets better in the second book.

great author
One of my favorite authors and this is a great start to what should be a great series. ... Read more

Product Description
Sent to Carthak as part of the Tortallan peace delegation, Daine finds herself in the middle of a sticky political situation. She doesn't like the Carthaki practice of keeping slaves, but it's not her place to say anything -- she's just there to heal the emperor's birds. It's extremely frustrating! What's more, her power has grown in a mysterious way.

As the peace talks stall, Daine puzzles over Carthak's two-faced Emperor Ozorne. How can he be so caring with his birds and so cruel to his people? Daine is sure he's planning something. Daine must fight the powerful Emperor Mage, knowing that the safety and peace of the realm depend on stopping Ozorne's power-hungry schemes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (123)

great series
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

Great series, overall. and better than the lioness series.

Emporer mage - a sucsess
This is a really great book! I personaly love the Immortal quartet, and the lioness books. So enticing! Definitly a have to.

great read
Tamora Pierce is one of my all time favorite authors who could only improve upon her writing skills by turning out her books a bit faster.This book like most of her books has wonderful characterization and story line.The world she creates is intriguing and everyone in it seems real and fascinating.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too
Gold Star Award Winner!

EMPEROR MAGE follows the story of Daine, now fifteen years old, a girl with the rare power of "wild magic" that gives her an extraordinary affinity with animals. With her wild magic, Daine can communicate with animals, see the world through their senses, and even transform herself into one, all skills that the first two books of THE IMMORTALS series have shown her develop.

In this third book, the stakes are raised as Daine accompanies an ambassadorial delegation to Carthak, where she is to use her wild magic to cure the Carthaki Emperor's sick pet birds as a show of goodwill. Carthaki ships have been attacking the coast of Daine's country of Tortall for the last year, resulting in increasingly violent skirmishes, and the intention of this delegation is to negotiate for peace between the nations.

Accompanying Daine on this trip are the famous lady knight Alanna, star of Pierce's LIONESS QUARTET, Tortall's most powerful mage and Daine's teacher, Numair, and the young dragon, Kitten.

Daine finds Carthak to be an alternately strange and disturbing place; she's not comfortable with the practice of slavery, which is legal there, or with Emperor Orzone, a powerful mage in his own right. When the peace negotiations stall, things start to heat up, and the balance of power between two great nations has been staked on the outcome.

In what is undoubtedly my favorite book of the quartet, Pierce continues to develop Daine's skills and abilities while simultaneously allowing the readers entry into the struggles that this wild mage has had to face in order to build her talent. The cast of supporting characters is large but nuanced, and although it might initially seem an easy job to discern between the two sides of the impending fight, the distinctions are increasingly and intelligently blurred.

I particularly enjoyed the further characterization of Numair, as well as the introduction of the young Prince Kaddar, who always kept me guessing. The pacing is spot on, with seemingly innocuous events leading up to a powerful climactic sequence.

I read it all the way through without stopping!

Reviewed by:Candace Cunard

Tamora Pierce
I love Tamora Pierce books I have all of them that are available on CD...Amazon was the lowest price around and I checked them all... ... Read more

Product Description
"I don't want to fall in love. I just want to be a warrior maiden."

Still disguised as a boy, Alanna becomes a squire to none other than the prince of the realm. Prince Jonathan is not only Alanna's liege lord, he is also her best friend -- and one of the few who knows the secret of her true identity. But when a mysterious sorceror threatens the prince's life, it will take all of Alanna's skill, strength, and magical power to protect him -- even at the risk of revealing who she really is...

Filled with swords and sorcery, adventure and intrigue, good and evil, Alanna's second adventure continues the saga of a girl who dares to follow her dreams -- and the magical destiny that awaits her.

Alanna's journey continues... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (236)

classic ya seires
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

Good series, overall. but prefer the Immortals series.

best series by a wonderful author
I read Tamora Pierce years ago and loved her books.I was so glad to see that she started writing again b/c all of her new books are great.However, her original Alanna series will always remain my favorite b/c the characters are so original and the story is so intriguing.

More Good YA Adventure from Tamora Pierce - book 2 (The Song of the Lioness)
"In the Hand of the Goddess" is the second book in "The Song of the Lioness" quartet.In book One, Alana and her brother Thom exchange identities and leave their home estate.Thom goes off to learn magic, and Alana pursues the path to knighthood.She does this by hiding her gender.And while her secret is more or less still intact at the end of the first book, she finds herself grappling with 'the lie' that dominates her life.

In book Two, In the Hand of the Goddess, this problem persist.And actually becomes more complicated as Alana finds herself maturing and desiring different relationships with her friends.

But that's not the only danger.The neighboring king brings about a minor war, and then of course, there is Duke Roger.He still lurks, vying his time trying to figure out how to grab the crown.

With all these dangers about, Alana picks up two new allies to help her: the Mother Goddess, and a black kitten.

Talking Points:::
A nice continuation, the story zips along quickly and is well written with a strong female lead.

Unlike some of Tamora Pierce's books for juveniles, this one has a more adult tilt, with bedroom dilemmas.

Pam T
(booksforkids-reviews)

alanna's heartfelt story
i have read the first and second alanna book, and i CANNOT stop reading! This story has love, adventure, and plenty of kisses. I would recommend this series to ALL girls who have learned about thier body(hint hint).

For young people
These are well-written lovely books for young folks - especially girls aged 9-16 or so.A bit too boring and simplistic for adults.Tamora Pierce has done a great service for young people and I highly recommend them for anyone 16 or younger. ... Read more

Product Description
When Daja was cast out of the Trader community, she made her own family with her fellow mages-in-training. But when danger faces the Traders, it is up to Daja to save the people who turned her away. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (50)

fairly good read
I love any book by Tamora Pierce.This series is good and if it was by any other author I would call it great.However, since I have such high expectations for Tamora Pierce I cannot call it truly wonderful.

goodness in book form
I like books. This would be a great one for a younger children to help them get interested in reading. well, its still good if your older than that, too!

Circle of Magic #3 Daja's Book
It is a fun book to read about magic and 4 young mages.I love all 4 books of this series as the mages learn their magic and how to combine their power to accomplish amazing things together.

Let's Learn About Traders
Book 3 in the Circle of Magic series
Known as "The Fire in the Forging" in the UK.

Daja is the main character (at last says me) although of course the other three mages get their chance to show off new skills too. Here the mages have travelled with the Duke to explore another part of his realm. This area has been devastated by three years of drought and by mages preventing wildfires from refreshing the land.
We get to learn all about the culture and traditions of the Traders - similar to gypsies in our world. They are a fascinating people who I cannot wait to read more about.
Another great book - my favourite book in this series.

"It's Quite a Story. And It Grows Everyday..."
This is the third book in Tamora Pierce's "Circle of Magic" series, which has also been published as The Fire In The Forging. The quartet of books centre around the trials and tribulations of four teenage mages, separated for a variety of reasons from their families and brought to live together at Winding Circle in order to control their magic and hone their crafts. With each one roughly collaborating with an element (obviously fire, in this case), the four students form a strong bond together when they find that their unique magics can be combined and unleashed in unexpected ways. It is this extraordinary friendship that emerges between the four impossibly different young people that forms the backbone and major theme of the series.

Sandry, Briar, Tris and Daja (who by now are referring to each other as foster-siblings) have traveled with their teachers to the Gold Ridge Mountains, accompanying Sandry's uncle Duke Vedris in order to lend aid to the drought-ridden community. As the title suggests, this volume is concerned with Daja (one of the few dark-skinned protagonists to be found in fantasy-fiction - the only other that comes to mind are the characters of Ursula le Guin's Earthsea Quartet, the (Roc)) and her unenviable position as an outcast from her nomadic and tribe-like people. Before coming to live at Winding Circle, Daja was a member of the Trader people; a community-based but extremely superstitious race of people who shunned Daja as unlucky after her ship sank at sea, leaving her the sole survivor. Since then, Daja has found a new home for herself among her friends and their teachers, but she cannot help but feel a longing for her own people and customs.

This longing is sharpened once Daja accidentally makes a beautiful living tree out of iron, one which is soon coveted by visiting Traders. Feeling homesick for her people, and yet disgusted by their treatment of her, Daja is torn as to how to deal with their attempts to barter with her for the precious tree. Pierce is at her best in presenting Daja's inner conflict - her desire to return to her own people, her frustration at her friends for not understanding her culture, and her resentment at the way she's being treated by the Traders. Unfortunately, I felt that the character of Polyam (the gruff Trader who is sent to deal with Daja) goes through a rather abrupt change in terms of her treatment of Daja, but Pierce is on stronger ground when it comes to the relationships between the four students and their teachers.

It is the strongest portrayal of a non-related "family" that you'll find outside of a Joss Whedon show, and all eight characters (four students, four teachers) bounce off each other so beautifully that you can only wish you were a part of it. Although each student has a particular bond with their own teacher (Daja and Frostpine are given especial attention here), there is plenty of warmth and affection between all the members of this unusual family to make you smile. Of particular note is the way in which the teenagers know how to deal with one another: whether it's defending Daja against her own people whilst simultaneously trying to adapt to her beliefs, or goading Daja with insults in order to bring her back to the land of the living. Prepare for a lot of warm-fuzzies when reading this, or any of the other "Circle of Magic" series.

But Daja's internal crisis is not the only conflict at work throughout the book, as the main problem revolves around the danger of bush fires that are threatening the community. Although a somewhat pompous mage believes that he has it all under control, the Winding Circle adults (particularly Rosethorn) are not at all convinced that nature can be held back by a single individual. Pierce has an interesting grasp of the workings of magic in this series, comparing the studies and lessons of a magical university with what is known as "the Living Cycle" which relies on the rhythms of nature in order to regulate a person's control of magical forces. In saying that though, many of the "outer body experiences" and instances in which the teenagers' magics are intertwined are described somewhat vaguely and are difficult to grasp - I'm never really sure how Pierce wants us to imagine magic within this world: as energy or spiritualism or something completely different. But also worthy of note is Pierce's emphasis on discipline when it comes to the students' grasp of magic, and the importance of working within the rules of etiquette: when the four students are caught eavesdropping they are severely reprimanded and punished. I couldn't help but compare it favourably to the Harry Potter trio, who get away with endless rule-breaking when it comes to using their magic for unorthodox means.

The "Circle of Magic" books aren't quite as action-packed as Pierce's previous quartets, The Song of the Lioness Quartet: Alanna: The First Adventure / In the Hand of the Goddess / The Woman Who Rides Like a Man / Lioness Rampant and Set of The Immortals by Tamora Pierce (The Immortals), concentrating instead on the themes of hard work and friendship. If you're in the mood for a more easy-going and character-driven book, then this series is perfect.
... Read more

Product Description
When Winding Circle comes under attack by Pirate Queen Pahua and her army, the four magicians-in-training unite in their powers to defeat the enemy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (73)

entertaining
I love any book by Tamora Pierce.This series is good and if it was by any other author I would call it great.However, since I have such high expectations for Tamora Pierce I cannot call it truly wonderful.

Love it!
This series is great, worth buying the book. You can trust a bookaholic, we know books!

Storming the keep
Book 2 of the Circle of Magic
Known as "The Power In the Storm" in the UK.

This book continues the tales of the four young mages focusing on Tris developing her control of her weather skills. This book details a pirate attack on Winding Circle, causing all four mages to work harder than previously to master their skills and interact with their teachers to work great magics.

This is another excellent TP book and her descriptions and details of the different cultures and their traditions are beautiful.

When pirates attack Winding Circle...
Tris and her three friends, Briar, Sandry and Daja are still living at Disciplin Cottage located inside winding circle with their teachers, Frostpine, Niko, Lark and Rosethorn. Learning their studies quite well...but when Winding Circle is damaged by an earthquake they're left open for a pirate attack. And considering how they're left wide open pirates take advantage and attack winding circle's walls. With this everyone in winding circle is helping to rid of the pirates. And this includes Tris, Briar, Daja and Sandry. But please, don't get Tris angry...she'll blow her top.

I enjoyed this book very much and finished it in a day. It's excited, adventurous and even funny enough to keep you hooked. The four mages are lovable characters and they seem like old friends every time I read a book from the Circle of Magic quartet. Hope you read this book and all the others in the series!

Don't mess with Tris...
At Winding Circle trouble rises when pirates attack there home. The four apprentices Tris with weather powers, Sandry the stitch witch, Briar who can controle plants, and Daja the smith mage desperetley want to help the other mages defend Winding Circle but of course they're only ten so they are told to stay out of trouble for fear of them getting hurt. The four must help and they disobey the rules and help. Can they save the day? Or will they just end up getting hurt or worse...killed?

TRIS'S BOOK is fun for all of you and anybody that enjoys fantasy and magic would adore this novel. But you should read the first book of the quartet, SANDRY'S BOOK before reading this one. Read this book because you won't want to put it down.
-Hannah M. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (31)

not as good as her others
I love any book by Tamora Pierce.This series is good and if it was by any other author I would call it great.However, since I have such high expectations for Tamora Pierce I cannot call it truly wonderful.

Just didn't like the protagonist
Very few of Pierce's books have first-person protagonists; in fact, i'm pretty sure that the only others are the "Beka Cooper" books - "Terrier", "Bloodhound" and "Mastiff".

And i just didn't *like* Evvy.

(I like Beka, OTOH, so it's not her handling of first-person narrative per se that i have problems with...)

I didn't like her when Briar found her on the street and had to make sure she got magical training ... and i don't like her now when the's travelling with Rosethorn.

Her "voice" (speaking of the characterisation, not the audiobook version, which, like all audiobooks, i avoided) just set my figurative teeth on edge, liek chalk on a blackboard, and her attitude didn't help any, either.

But, if you like Pierce in general and the "Circle of Magic" books in particular, you ought try this one - maybe you'll like Evvy (or at least not be annoyed by her).

And, setting aside an annoying protagonist, there's a lot to like in this one, starting with Evvy's friend (whose name i have, i'm ashamed to say, forgotten), who is, apparently, a mountain - or at least, the elemental spirit of one.

And, of course, Rosethorn can be counted on for the occasional acerb and apropos comment at the appropriate (read, most annoying for someone who needs annoying) moment...

Just in Case
The book I ordered was received in the conditioned as stated in the ad. I was very happy with my purchase and would definitely use this vendor again. Thank you very much for your help.

seemed like a geology lesson
this book definitely strayed from the others in this series.It seemed to concentrate less on the "Mystical" and way too much on the "Geological".The character didn't seem to be as fully developed and the book didn't seem to be well thought out about the characters relationships w/one another.People go from hating each other to understanding & maybe even liking each other without the reader ever really understanding why.Quite a disappointment to read.

Melting Stones by Tamora Pierce
This is a very good side story if you've read the Circle of Magic series. It comes after Briar's third book (which isn't out yet). ... Read more

Product Description
Lady Sandrilene fa Toren is a noble girl whose thread magic wove together the power - and the personal bonds - of four young magicians. Now, Lady Sandrilene is on her own and saddled with teaching magic to a restless boy, safeguarding her uncle's health, and tracking down a brutal murderer.Amazon.com Review

"'Magic? Me, do magic?' Magic was athing of schools and books. No proper Acalon did magic. 'Oh,no--please, you're mistaken, my lady. I'm no mage.'

Sandry met his eyes squarely. 'You just danced a magical working, PascoAcalon. I am never mistaken about such things.'"

Four years after we last saw the young mages Sandry, Tris, Daja, andBriar in the Circle of Magic quartet, Sandry is back. Now14 years old, she is helping her great-uncle, Duke Vedris IV,ruler of Emelan, recover after a heart attack. But there's no rest forthe weary mage. A mysterious murderer is afoot, and it quickly becomesclear that Sandry and her reluctant young protégé, Pasco, are the onlyones who can stop the killings. Unfortunately, Pasco comes from a longline of harriers, or provost's guards, and his burly family does notthink highly of a boy who dances magical spells. It takes some fancyfootwork to convince Pasco of the need for his special brand of magic,and Sandry is just the girl for the job.

This first title in Tamora Pierce's new series, The Circle Opens, willthrill fans of her terrifically popular previous books, including TheCircle of Magic quartet and The Song of the Lioness quartet. With herspellbinding choreography of wit, gore, and intrigue, Pierce nevertakes a false step. (Ages 9 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Customer Reviews (79)

good book
I love any book by Tamora Pierce.This series is good and if it was by any other author I would call it great.However, since I have such high expectations for Tamora Pierce I cannot call it truly wonderful.

don;t bother reading this
If you are lookiing for mystery and murder,
don't read this book.It is all about magic
and confusing and boring.
Read Hatchet by Gary Paulson for a good read.

"You're Getting Ready to Take Your Place on the Adult Stage..."
"Magic Steps" is the first book of the Tamora Pierce quartet entitled "The Circle Opens." Featuring the characters of "The Circle of Magic" quartet, this new series continues their story by exploring how each of the four main characters - just coming to grips with their powers in the previous books - now handle the challenge of becoming teachers themselves. Unfortunately, Pierce has decided that one of the prerequisites of this new experience is that the four protagonists - Sandry, Briar, Daja and Tris - must be separated in order to focus on the new relationships that they forge with their students. Therefore, "Magic Steps" opens with the acknowledgement that Briar, Tris and Daja have set off (separately) with their teachers in order to travel to certain parts of the world and further their studies in their individual fields of magic.

Poor Sandry has been left behind, currently staying with her uncle, the Duke Vedris, in order to watch over his health after a heart-attack has left him weakened. This is sad, as the bond between these four very different characters was the central theme of "The Circle of Magic," and most definitely the strongest portrayal of friendship that Pierce has written in any of her books to date. Although the missing characters are mentioned in passing, they are solely missed. To add to the loss, their mentors have gone with them, depriving us of the playful banter that existed between Rosethorn, Frostpine, Lark and Niko and their young surrogate family.

So yes, I entered this new series highly skeptical as to how much I would enjoy it, having immensely enjoyed the interactions that existed in the previous quartet. How well does "The Circle Opens" do without this fundamental backbone to series? Well, one of the advantages is that we get more character development on Sandry, a character who was apparently the protagonist of Sandry's Book (Circle of Magic, Book 1), but who had to share the spotlight heavily with the other three characters, that being the first introductory book in the series. So I always felt that Sandry was edged out of the spotlight a little, and "Magic Steps" gives Pierce a chance to explore her character further. Unlike other more "gung-ho" heroines of Pierce's books, Sandry is a much more docile and composed character - though she lacks none of her peers' strength when it comes to getting what she wants! It's refreshing to find a more gentle and feminine heroine in Pierce's canon of heroines, as I strongly believe that a woman shouldn't have to swing a sword and scream battle cries in order to be deemed a strong female role model for young readers. Sandry fits into this category nicely, solving her problems with politeness, kindness, dignity and a will of iron.

Whilst accompanying her uncle on his daily morning ride, Sandry comes across a young twelve year old boy named Pasco who seems to be able to channel magic through dance. As the discoverer of his magical ability, tradition decrees that Sandry become his teacher, and though she doesn't feel quite up to the task, she throws herself into his instruction. Meanwhile, there is a spate of grisly murders occurring all over the city, targeting the Rokat family. Sandry becomes involved when it becomes clear that the assassins are using a particular type of magic called "unmagic" that renders all other spells powerless against it. She soon comes to the conclusion that it is only a delicate blend of Pasco's and her own magic that can possibly bring the killers to justice - though putting this plan into action is a delicate and tiring business.

The story itself is not quite Pierce's best, although there is a humanizing element present in all the characters, even in the assassins, who aren't just killing for the fun of it. However, Pierce does go a little overboard in the grisly nature of the murders that take place, which involve beheadings and the killing of children/infants. However, the final dramatic confrontation between Sandry and the killers is handled particularly well, with a couple of poignant twists thrown in the mix.

The bond between Sandry and Pasco isn't as explored as deeply as I would have liked. Pierce begins their relationship by hinting that Pasco has a bit of a crush on Sandry, something that would have added a certain amount of humour to the lessons that follow, but this element is dropped soon after it's introduced. However, perhaps in compensation, we are treated to hints of a romance between Duke Vedris and Pasco's dance instructor, the vivacious Yazmin Hebet.

It ends on a note that points toward the direction that the following books in this series will be taking: the mission of the four young mages to pass on the gift of learning that was granted to them, and of finding their places in the adult world. No complains here, but I would have greatly appreciated a prologue to this new series, one that showed the departure of Tris/Niko, Daja/Frostpine and Briar/Rosethorn, simply to give us an update on the characters' relationships and what would have been a very poignant farewell between the four friends and their elders. As it is, we're thrown into the characters' new situation too quickly, with no time to really feel the pain that comes with the separation of family.

Sandry becomes a teacher
Sandry is now living with her uncle, Duke Vedris IV after he had his heart attack. Sandry is now watching over him in Summersea. When Sandry fa Toren finds a young boy dancing a spell on a beach she knows right away that he has magic. Dispite that Sandry is only a young girl she knows that she must teach him to controle and use his magic before anything bad happens.

Before Sandry knows it she hears of a killer that is killing all the membes in a wealthy, merchant family...even the children. While Sandry is teaching the boy magic she must also find the killer(s). That will be difficult. And...young people can be stubborn...so can her student, Pasco.

This is an awesome book! I hope that you read it!

Outside th circle
It was nice to read about the same circle of magic characters and to get to know Sandry a little better.Thae idea of dance magic was an unusual one and was well developed. ... Read more

Product Description
NO LONGER A slave, Alianne is now spying as part of an underground rebellion against the colonial rulers of the Copper Isles. The people in the rebellion believe that a prophecy in which a new queen will rise up to take the throne is about to be realized. Aly is busy keeping the potential teenaged queen and her younger siblings safe, while also keeping her in the dark about her future. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (102)

great story line
Tamora Pierce is one of my all time favorite authors who could only improve upon her writing skills by turning out her books a bit faster.This book like most of her books has wonderful characterization and story line.The world she creates is intriguing and everyone in it seems real and fascinating.

Tricksters Queen
I loved this book. Tamora Pierce is one of my favorite authers. She has a way of making the book come alive. The first book (Tricksters Choice) is by far better, but this one is also good. If you like this book, look at her other books, Circle of Magic for younger kids (10-13) but age doesnt matter I still read them, and my younger brother started reading them at 7. Also the Immortals by Tamora Piece are amazing! They are better for (11-14)....

Keep it coming
All my daughter reads is Tamora Pierce. Thank you for sending the book so promptly and in such great condition. Thanks again.

Trickster's Queen
An amazing book. Kind of a sad ending, but mainly happy. The first book is also good.

Nice sequel
I really enjoy Tamora Pierce's work.I first discovered her by accident in a library, and I have been hooked ever since.This book is about par with her work.It's the second book in the series, the first being Trickster's Choice, which I would reccommend reading first.

All of Tamora Pierce's books that I have read have strong female leads, magic, sword fighting, and are set way back when in an imaginary place.If you are into this sort of thing, then almost any Tamora Pierce books are worth reading. ... Read more

Product Description
Tamora Pierce brings readers another Tortall adventure! Alianne is the teenage daughter of the famed Alanna, the first lady knight in Tortall. Young Aly follows in the quieter footsteps of her father, however, delighting in the art of spying. When she is captured and sold as a slave to an exiled royal family in the faraway Copper Islands, it is this skill that makes a difference in a world filled with political intrigue, murderous conspiracy, and warring gods. This is the first of two books featuring Alianne.


From the Hardcover edition.Amazon.com Review
To the great joy of her many fans, Tamora Pierce with this book begins a new saga of Tortall to add to The Song of the Lioness Quartet, the Immortals Quartet, and The Protector of the Small tetralogy. At the center of each of these books is always a strong and resourceful young woman who masters the arts of swordplay and knightly warfare in the magical medieval country of Tortall. Alianne, or Aly, daughter of the warrior queen Alanna the Lioness, has all these skills, but also a delicious sense of humor, which serves her well when she is chosen by the trickster god Kyprioth to serve as his secret agent and a slave for a year in the embattled Copper Isles. There the dark-skinned natives, or raka, have been conquered and crushed by the laurin, light-skinned people from the mainland. The burning raka resentment is fueled by prophecies of a twice royal queen who will free them, aided by the "wise one, the cunning one, the strong one, the warrior, and the crows." Just how each of the colorful characters and Aly herself fit into this prophecy and Kyprioth’s tricky plan keeps readers guessing. Aly plots to show her skill at spying as she flirts with the god and is courted by Nawat, a crow transformed into a handsome young man, who is puzzled when she rejects his attempts to mate-feed her with grubs and ants.

The pages of this long but fast-paced adventure zip by, enlivened by intrigue, skirmishes, comedy, romance, and lots of dramatic clothes. (Ages 10 to 14) --Patty Campbell ... Read more

Customer Reviews (204)

not a warrior, a spy
I love Tamora Pierce's books set in the imaginary land of Tortall, and this one is delightful. It is the first of two about Aly, daughter of Alianna, the warrior heroine of the "Song of the Lioness" quartet. Unlike her mom, Aly is a spy. After being sold into slavery, Aly gets caught up in an effort to overturn the rulers of the Copper Isles and return the islands to a queen who will unite and strengthen them. Aly is clever, the plot is compelling, and the adventure captivated me completely.

Trickster's Choice by Sara Robinson
Tamora Pierce is a great writer!I read the series before this one which is equally cool.In this one, Alanna, the first girl knight and the King's Champion, has a daughter, Alianne (Aly).She starts with blue hair, sixteen, and a want to be a spy for her father, George the King of Thieves.When her Mother refuses to let her be a spy, Aly runs away and is made a slave by pirates.Are you hooked yet?
She is eventually given to good owners "luckily."It turns out a god effected this on purpose.She soon makes a wager with the trickster god to get home.The gods also make a wager with the crows to make them help too.She helps other slaves protect their owners, the Duke, Duchess, and their 3 daughters and one son.The two older girls, Dove and Saira, are the main people to be protected because they are heirs to the raka and her people.Raka are basically black people or Native Americans. Their mother was a raka queen who married the duke.When Aly is freed George comes and she decides to stay with her old owners to put a raka on the throne.
She is eventually given to good owners "luckily."It turns out a god effected this on purpose.She soon makes a wager with the trickster god to get home.The gods also make a wager with the crows to make them help too.She helps other slaves protect their owners, the Duke, Duchess, and their 3 daughters and one son.The two older girls, Dove and Saira, are the main people to be protected because they are heirs to the raka and her people.Raka are basically black people or Native Americans. Their mother was a raka queen who married the duke.When Aly is freed George comes and she decides to stay with her old owners to put a raka on the throne.

extreemly good
I was amazed at how good this book was. Seeing how the Protector of the Small books were such a letdown from Allana. The plot was full of twists that left me spinning. I loved Aly she was a great improvement, I really didnt want to rerad another series about knights. I think spycraft is much more intriguing. The Song of the Lioness books were so good that her daughter just hade to be awesome too.loved every part of this series, except that it was only two books long. Thelength of the series dissapointedmewould have loved another quartet

Finally found another great author
My daughter has been reading the Harry Potter Series and the Twilight books over and over, nothing I brought home could hold a candle to those until I discovered Trickster's Choice.We both think this book is fantastic and the sequel is solid.Agree with the cover of the book comment, Tamora Pierce's other books look like dreadful run of the mill dreck (based on the cover).This cover was more grown up and intriguing.We will now get her other books and read them.

I highly recommend this book.

great characters
Tamora Pierce is one of my all time favorite authors who could only improve upon her writing skills by turning out her books a bit faster.This book like most of her books has wonderful characterization and story line.The world she creates is intriguing and everyone in it seems real and fascinating. ... Read more

Product Description
Daja and Frostpine expect to spend somepeaceful weeks with old friends in Namorn.But things begin to go awry as soon as they arrive.First Daja discovers that their hosts' twin daughters are mages.Then mysterious fires begin to blaze across the frigid city.Daja works with Bennat Ladradun, to locate what seems to be a serial arsonist.Daja's magic saves the city from going up in flames, but nothing and nobody can save her the disappointment of learning that the arsonist is someone close to her own heart.Amazon.com Review
Readers who have followed the fortunes of Daja and her foster siblings in Tamora Pierce's Circle of Magic and The Circle Opens sequences will not be disappointed by this continuation of Daja's adventures as a smith-mage. As her foster siblings Sandry and Briar struggle with their reluctant apprentices (Magic Steps, Street Magic), Daja and her teacher, Frostpine, settle into the northern Namorn city of Kugisko for a restful winter break. Not surprisingly, their illusions are promptly shattered, as Daja discovers that the twin daughters of her host have "ambient magic." As the discovering-mage, Daja is obliged to teach the fidgety girls the rudiments of magic. Meanwhile, Kugisko seems to have fallen into the hands of a ruthless arsonist, and Daja is determined to help her new firefighting friend, Bennat Ladradun, get to the bottom of the mystery. As always, Pierce's writing is both personable and thrilling. Kaja, a strapping, dark-skinned 14-year-old, is tremendously genuine; her powers seem to reflect inner strength rather than an arbitrary gift. An excellent, many-layered read. (Ages 9 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Customer Reviews (42)

"The Bravest Person I Know is Scared of the Dark..."
The Circle Opens quartet deals with the ongoing adventures of the four Winding Circle students as they themselves become the teachers to new (and even younger) apprentices. Sadly, one of the prerequisites of this teaching experience is that the four friends are separated, as became clear in Magic Steps, in which we learn from Sandry that Briar, Tris and Daja have left on far-flung journeys with their respective teachers in order to improve their own magical crafts. As such, the wonderful friendship that was the heart and soul of the previous quartet (Circle of Magic) is put on hiatus as the four make new friends, become teachers and deepen the relationship between themselves and their mentors.

Daja (still sporting the copper-cover hand that she earned in Daja's Book) and her teacher Frostpine -- both metal-mages, whose talents lie in fire, metal-working, and the forge -- are wintering in the snow-locked Narmorn. Both southern creatures, Frostpine in particular is finding the weather troublesome, but Daja is keeping herself busy with her work and her friendship with the two twin daughters of the household she is staying in. Nia and Jory Bancanor are total opposites in personality and temperament, but when Daja notices that they both have dormant magic in them, tradition dictates that it's her responsibility to train the two girls until she can find more appropriate mages to hone their individual talents.

Meanwhile, the fire-dangers that come from living in a city that is built almost entirely of wood becomes clear after Daja makes the acquaintance of Ben Ladradun, a fireman who is training members of his community in the techniques of fighting fires. Daja is instantly impressed with the man's bravery -- because he isn't a mage he is in considerable more danger when he enters a burning building than one who can magically shield themselves from fire. Striking up a friendship, Daja is soon working on a pair of magical fire-proof gloves for him.

Between training the twins and working on her new project, Daja is kept extremely busy, and Pierce fills her story with plenty of moments of joy, hard work, companionship, frustration and challenges. Because the twins are so different, Daja must find separate techniques of training them that suits each individual personality, and -- in a nice touch -- the twins reciprocate the time and energy Daja puts into their training by teaching her how to ice-skate. Despite the absence of Sandry, Briar, Tris and the other teachers, it is heart-warming to see how much they weigh on Daja's mind, as she often thinks about them or alludes to them in conversation, displaying just how much she loves her foster-family and desires their presence.

In their absence, Tamora Pierce builds up a strong portrayal of a community, complete with the martial bliss of the twins' parents and the friendship they share with Frostpine, the busy workplaces of the hospital and carpenter's workshop that the twins are apprenticed to, and a general atmosphere of falling snow and sleigh-rides contrasted with the warmth and clutter of home. Naturally, Pierce doesn't ignore the ugly side that exists in every community: the snobbery of certain mages, the fear with which some people regard Daja and the domineering figure of Ben's mother, Morrachane. Instantly butting heads with the strict old woman, Daja pities Ben for the authority that Morrachane has over him -- although Pierce mixes in a shade of grey in establishing the very real affection that Morrachane holds for Nia and Jory.

But even more troublesome than Morrachane is the growing evidence that there is an arsonist on the loose in the city. With house fires popping up everywhere, growing more dangerous and difficult to control, Daja and Frostpine find themselves volunteer fire-fighters in the attempt to control the blaze. Unfortunately, it is in this sub-plot that Pierce missteps. The arsonist's identity is revealed too quickly, and made known to the reader (through several paragraphs told from the culprit's point of view) long before Daja herself figures it out. This not only destroys the possibility of a whodunit aspect to the story, with a sense of mystery and suspense as to the arsonist's identity, but makes the reader frustrated that Daja is so slow on the uptake. However, others have pointed out that revealing the culprit's identity early on gives Pierce a chance to get inside his head, and make the reader privy to the fire-bug's POV. Your mileage may vary on how well it works.

However, despite this problematic handling of the story, there is enough here for Cold Fire to recommend itself. The bond between Daja and Frostpine is as touching as ever, as is Pierce's ongoing theme of fulfillment being found in hard work and honest dealings with fellow human beings. Though not my favourite of the Winding Circle foursome, Daja is a cool-headed and determined young heroine, and probably goes through the most dramatic changes than all of her foster-siblings in her own "spin-off" adventure, having to deal with the pain of needless death, the crush of disillusionment, and the sting of betrayal.

good read
I love any book by Tamora Pierce.This series is good and if it was by any other author I would call it great.However, since I have such high expectations for Tamora Pierce I cannot call it truly wonderful.

My Favorite of the Series.
As much as I love/adore/obsess over Tamora Pierce's works, I would be lying if I said that the Circle of Magic series was my favorite. Tortall will always hold a special place in my heart, and it may be because I read Alanna: The First Adventure befor the Circle of Magic quarter. It seems to be that those who read the Circle of Magic first like those better, and vice versa. I wasn't even planning on writing a review for Cold Fire because I didn't write a review for any of the other books, which annoys me (I like to go in order), and because I don't know of anyone who hasn't at least heard of Tamora Pierce that would be reading a book blog. But after I finished this book, I felt compelled to write a review for this one. Because it has to be my favorite of all seven books so far in the Circle of Magic and Circle Opens quartets. I must say that I was completely taken aback by Cold Fire and my own love for it. Daja is for sure, without a doubt, my least favorite among the four mages. Sandry has heart and loyalty, not too mention loves clothing which isn't often seen in Tammy's books. Tris is a spitfire, with wild hair and a wild personality. Briar is the lovable thief with the cute backwards thinking. But Daja... Daja is just kind of there. And Boring with a Capital B.

The Circle Opens quartet follows each of the respective mages while they take their own travels around the world. They haven't seen each other in a while, although they have their teachers along for the ride. Daja and Frostpine have been travelling up north, but they are stuck in the island nation of Kugisko for the long winter. They are staying with a close friend of Frostpine's family. Daja's plan for quiet and hardworking days alone is ruined when she notices that the family's twins have magic. Now she must teach them to meditate and center their magic, and she must find them the right teachers that teach their special brand of magic. Another problem that is ruining her peace is the fires slowly burning up the city, where most of the houses are made from wood. Because her special magic deals with fire, Daja feels she must help in any way she can. A crew of firefighters has been set up by a middle-aged man, who instantly connects with Daja. They both have a respect for fire, while they know that fire can hurt in the worst ways. When Daja learns that the fires are deliberately being started, the friendship begins to strain while Daja searches for the truth.

When I read the inside flap, I could easily guess who the mysterious arsonist was. It was as plain as day. And Tamora Pierce doesn't try to make this a mystery; she straight out tells you who the person is that is burning these homes up. This makes this book fantastic, because instead of trying to sneakily plant clues that the reader can sniff out from a mile away, she gives an even greater gift in between the pages: understanding. Tamora Pierce gets in to the mind of the arsonist. A few of the chapters are from their perspective, and from this perspective, we learn. We learn that the driving force behind the arsonist's motivations can not be pinpointed into exactly one moment of their life. It is the accumulation of their whole life story, from one tragic moment to the next. I could understand how this person was hanging in between the balance of good and evil and was tipped too far one way. They aren't necessarily Evil!, and yet they are. There is a fine balance of sympathy and anger at this character. At some points, I almost felt that this wasn't their fault, but then you see that they enjoy this burning and murdering of people. It is a thought-provoking look at criminals who commit unspeakable crimes and the death penalty. In Kugisko, the sentence for arson is to be burned alive. Daja is torn, just like I was, between what could be right and what isn't. The ending sequence is powerful, where Daja makes a decision, of a kind.

The one thing I can't stand about the Circle of Magic stories is the characterization. I feel like, through the eyes of their friends, each has a distinct personality. But when we get to this character's book, we never see this personality. All the characters are mushed into one giant character, who acts the same and likes the same things. Like Tris is supposed to be the one who flies off the handle; that is her characteristic. However in every book, each character has so many moments where they get worked up over some injustic and have to tell someone off. Umm, no. That's not allowed, okay. Not in my world. If someone is calm, I understand they won't be calm all the time. But they aren't all going to chew someone out all the time, either. One thing that Tamora Pierce does fantastically, especially in the Circle Opens, is her worldbuilding. I want to pack up and move to Kugisko. Who cares about a few little fires? They have channels of ice between their islands that they can SKATE on to travel! How amazing and imaginative is that! That's what I love about Tammy.

Review for Cold Fire by Tamora Pierce
As with the other three books in The Circle Opens quartet, this book is a little darker than the first set. It seems that as the main character has aged and grown into her abilities, the world has become a darker place.You really get the sense that she is no longer sheltered from the evils of the world and is forced to face adult situations.Very well written, with realistic characters and interactions.

Circle Opens: Cold Fire
My daughter loved the book but our only complaint was that the book cover was not the one shown so this book doesn't match the rest in this series! ... Read more

Product Description
Keladry (known as Kel) is the first girl to take advantage of the decree that permits girls to train for the knighthood. The only thing that can stop her is Lord Wyldon, the training master of pages and squires. He does not think girls should be knights and puts her on probation for one year. It is a trial period that no male page has to endure and one that separates the friendly Kel even more from her fellow trainees. But Kel is not someone to underestimate. . . . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (252)

Can't Wait!
This will be a great book.I allready know!I love these books!It shows that girls dont have to be weak as some people say.I take karate and my sister and I are the best in the advanced class and I am only 11!!That is living proof that girls are just as strong and sensable as boys!

great series great book
Tamora Pierce is one of my all time favorite authors who could only improve upon her writing skills by turning out her books a bit faster.This book like most of her books has wonderful characterization and story line.The world she creates is intriguing and everyone in it seems real and fascinating.

More Good Kid-Friendly Lit from Tamora Pierce.
Following in the steps of Alana 'the Lioness' is Keladry (Kel) of Mindelan, a 10-year-old is dead-set on becoming a knight like her hero.Unlike Alana though, Kel doesn't have magic to help her.Instead she has greater bulk and height, as well as training from an island where the marshal arts are taught -- think Tai Chi, Judo, Kendo.

The setting is the court of King Jonathan of Tortall.The landscape has changed from that of the Lioness Quartet because of the Immortal Wars wherein magical creatures have been let loose on the world.

The other thing that is different is that much of the forward progress that Alana made has vanished.The new knight trainer, Lord Wyldon, strongly believes women and girls have no place as knights.He's so stubborn that he insists he will quit unless the King a) makes Kel's first year probationary, and b) makes Alana swear that she will not communicate with the girl during that time.And as you can well imagine, such an attitude rubs off on the boys, who are just as mean to Kel as they were to Alana in her own time as a page.


Talking Points:::
It's a pleasure to watch Kel prove herself.She does have her strengths and stoic training which helps her, but so do the boys have their strengths and weaknesses.And, as always, Tamora Pierce's writing is more than competent and entertaining.

It hasn't been but a few weeks since I read the first book in the Alana series.And while the court and the processes of the page's training were similar, I didn't find the books so similar that I wasn't riveted by First Test.Kel and Alana are different people, as are the boys they find themselves amongst.

I don't know honestly what boys think of this series, but Tamora Pierce gives girls strong role models that don't give up, and who are intelligent and compassionate.I highly recommend Pierce to adventure loving girls which this caveat:This FIRST book is not as good as the following books.

Finally, this series is in the 'Juvenile' section of our library, but I found the personal dilemmas that pop up in the subsequent books to be very much like the ones found in Pierce's YA-books.Which is to say that the author includes conversations about puberty, boys and desire.

Pam T~
mom and reviewer at Booksforkids-reviews

More, More, More
What can I say, I'm happy with the condition of my purchase and would use this vendor again and again. Thanks.

Nothing Less Than a Feminists Dream!
This book is literally one of the best I've ever read. Tamora Pierce and her novels sit up on my bookshelf along with JK Rowling, JRR Tolkein, Lemony Snicket, Darren Shan, Nancy Holder, Anne Rice, Stephenie Meyer, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. I wasn't really into medieval stories until I picked up this book on whim while buying Nancy Holder's newest series.

I read the tiny orange paperback in less than a day, unable to peel myself from it. As a fifteen-year-old actress, I was already trying to manipulate myself into somehow playing 11-year-old Keladry without destroying the book's message twelve pages in! The second book was ever so exciting as well, seeing as Kel got older and started having a crush on her older friend Neal, so I was better able to relate to her.

I said this book is a feminist's dream, and although I am far from being feminist, it truly is. Kel is put down and down and down time and time again, but she pushes through and proves that girls, even LITTLE girls, can beat the boys (the BIG boys!) After finishing Page, the sequel, I started working out a lot more and building big muscles... simply because Pierce's writings inspired me.

I now own all of the Tortall books except the newest series, and am quickly working my way through them. I am extremely happy that such an exceptional author like Tamora Pierce is still writing books. You know how sad it is when your favorite series finishes and the author made so much dough they just quit? I really wish Rowling, Snicket, and Rice were still workin' the typewriter.

However, I applaud my other favorite authors, Pierce, Shan, and Holder, for still creating new works of art!

And of course, R.I.P. Doyle and Tolkein. ... Read more