Of the three installments of the Song of the Lioness (SotL) series so far, this particular one was undoubtedly the weakest.

The plot seemed to meander aimlessly, lacking a clear direction and failing to establish a strong connection with Alanna's character arc.

After being knighted and revealing her true identity as a woman, Alanna departs from her kingdom and soon finds herself joining a tribe of desert people. Here, she assumes the role of the tribe's shaman and begins instructing apprentices in the use of magic.

The portrayal of the desert people, who bear a resemblance to the fantasy versions of Islamic Bedouins (perhaps?), was somewhat inaccurate. Given that this book was written in the 90s by a white, non-Muslim author, it is perhaps not entirely unexpected to find a few problematic elements. However, with Alanna's arrival to assist them in "modernizing" their ways and a later plot point in which Johnathan is inexplicably called upon to become the Voice (the spiritual leader) of all tribes, there is a distinct white savior undertone to the story.

Alanna and Johnathan engage in a fight and ultimately end their relationship, leading Alanna to return to the capital and seek out George. They waste no time in getting together and sharing a bed. I must admit that I do admire Alanna's forthrightness when it comes to giving in to a man's advances. George is clearly a more suitable match for her, so it seems that all's well that ends well.

Meanwhile, Tom, Alanna's twin, has been amassing power, delving into the dark art of necromancy, and generally becoming more and more of an asshole as the story unfolds. Now that Duke Roger is dead, I can't help but wonder whether Tom will emerge as the final villain of the series.

It was a truly great and riveting read. It's always an exciting thing to witness Alanna's growth in strength. She has come a long way, and her progress is truly remarkable. The romantic aspect of the story was also very engaging. It revealed a different, more feminine side of Alanna that is often hidden. Due to the need to constantly prove herself as the equal of a man, she has had to suppress this side of her personality. However, in this story, we get to see a more vulnerable and emotional Alanna, which makes her even more endearing.

It's also very satisfying to see that Alanna is finally beginning to command the respect and praise that she so richly deserves. She has been winning over those who oppose her by sheer force of her personality and talent. Her determination and perseverance have paid off, and she is now on the verge of achieving great things. I can't wait to see what the future holds for Alanna and how she will continue to grow and develop as a character.

Closer to a 3.75 out of 5 than a 4, this installment truly showcases the power of a change of scenery for a series. It was an absolute joy to follow Alanna and her man-at-arms Coram as they ventured into the Great Southern Desert and interacted with the Bazhir. Alanna's internal struggles regarding her gender reach a climax here. The cultural and attitudinal differences between her and the Bazhir, along with the discoveries she makes about her evolving feelings towards Prince Jonathan and George Cooper, add depth to her character. After fearing her magical Gift since her duel with Duke Roger of Conte, she now learns to accept and even embrace it.

Apart from one resolution-related quibble (I was disappointed that I never got to "say goodbye" to Alanna's two shaman apprentices), the only issue I had was with Tamora Pierce's writing. It's mainly the same immaturity/quality comment that I had with IN THE HAND OF THE GODDESS. However, having read some of Pierce's later works, I know her writing improves eventually. Despite that, this breath of fresh (and slightly sandy?) summertime air is the most romantic, action-packed, and magical installment of the Song of the Lioness Quartet.

That is, until LIONESS RAMPANT. Which means it's time for a re-read of the finale! ;)

This is barely 4 stars mostly because of George.

This installment of the Alanna series is my least favorite. Now I recall why I have almost no memory of it, except for George. Strangely, I didn't realize this book only spans a year. It seems as if it should cover a more extended period.

Rereading it in 2021, one can't help but notice the colonizer tones and racist perspectives on the veils. Thankfully, Tamora Pierce addressed these issues in her reprint versions, which I truly appreciate. However, this book (at least so far) hasn't aged as gracefully as the others.

Regarding the love triangle, I've always thought that Alanna and Jonathan were too alike in personality and temperament. George, on the other hand, balances Alanna better. He respects her both as a woman and as a fighter. In contrast, it feels like Jonathan views her as either one or the other, but not both. So, goodbye to Jonathan and hello to George!

Also, ugh Thom.

On January 3, 2008, Alanna, now knighted and her true identity revealed, sets off southward to commence her tenure as a wandering knight. She is eager to leave behind the turmoil at court caused by her deception and the slaying of the King's cousin in combat. In her first year as a knight, she undertakes several significant adventures. She joins the desert-dwelling Bazhir and brings about changes among them. She witnesses Prince Jonathan assume the role of the Voice. She also transitions from one Royal lover to another and starts to understand herself as Alanna rather than Alan.

However, the romance aspect in the story leaves much to be desired. I still don't like Jonathan. Although the situation of Alanna being in love with an unsuitable man is interesting and realistic, the way it resolves with some yelling and the parties separating indefinitely is not fulfilling. Moreover, George feels like a rebound. Despite the text's attempt to make it seem otherwise, it's clear that Alanna invites him to bed immediately after learning that Jonathan has moved on to another woman. This is extremely frustrating.

Nevertheless, I do like Alanna and her adventures. The world created is captivating, and I enjoy seeing this lady knight grappling with finding her place and using her voice in a world that seems to have no room or inclination to listen to her. But the romance is so poorly executed that it makes me want to throw things. I hate that Alanna appears to have so little agency, and I'm also critical of Pierce's somewhat problematic approaches to gender and race. Additionally, it's important to note that George getting a chapter from his POV adds depth to the story. And while part of me rebels against Thom's impending downfall as his story of isolation, pride, and idiocy strikes a chord, I also wonder what his story would look like if told differently.

Actual rating 3.5

I find myself having rather mixed emotions regarding this book. On one hand, I do understand the necessity of its existence, and to a certain extent, I did enjoy reading it. However, it just didn't seem as well-developed as the previous two books in the series.

Jon is truly a despicable character, and I will continue to loathe him with a passion. In this installment, I had the impression that Alanna was making choices that were completely out of character for her. It seemed as if she was leading a particular character on simply because she was feeling a bit sad and bored. This kind of behavior would be acceptable in another character, but Alanna has always been portrayed differently.

Despite these drawbacks, the book was still entertaining and fun to read. It just didn't reach the level of amazingness that I had come to expect from this series. Overall, it was an okay read, but it definitely had its flaws.

Unfortunately, I'm not certain that this particular installment holds up, not even when compared to my memories.

I recall not being fond of certain aspects when I first read it (cough... the romance... cough), but upon rereading, I find myself liking it even less.

The good points? Well, most of the Bazhir camp was interesting. Alanna finally finding a sort of home and getting a bit more in touch with her center and what she wanted was nice. Sir Myles adopting Alanna was a delightful scene. I also really enjoyed the scenes in Corus towards the end, especially the ones from George's point of view.

The not so good? Man, the plotline with Jonathan is really problematic. I've never liked him as a love interest for Alanna. He can be a great friend, absolutely, but the moment it turns romantic, the relationship just sours for me. I understand he's young and immature, chafing against his responsibility while also learning to handle it responsibly. I can respect some of that. But his complete disregard for Alanna's opinions and desires really wears thin.

And the way it ends kind of spoils Alanna's subsequent rebound to George. I mean, George is so much better for her in a million ways, but the way their relationship progresses feels very underdeveloped and unearned. I think I needed a few more scenes of them falling for each other outside the context of the love triangle with Jonathan. To repeat, I really don't like how Tamora Pierce does romance in these books at all.

I'm also not happy with how ambition is dealt with in this. There are quite a few examples. Alanna being completely unconcerned with Thom just taking her gift is a big problem and really doesn't make sense. Even she, blinded by her love for him as her twin, should have immediately realized that since he's taking it随意 with no warning, he could have taken it while she was in battle and needed it, or while she was using it to keep the Voice of the Bazhir alive. Her lack of follow-up is completely irresponsible and out of character, considering how private and protective she is of herself about everything else.

Lastly, a lot happens in this book, but much of it feels sort of glossed over. I think part of it is that it's very much a setup for Lioness Rampant and was never really meant to be its own standalone story. But I don't know, I just didn't enjoy reading it much this time around.

I can't give this less than 5 stars.

It holds a lot of memories from my childhood.

Every time I think about it, those precious moments come flooding back.

The story, the characters, everything about it is so good.

It's like a time capsule that takes me back to a simpler and happier time.

I remember reading it over and over again, getting lost in its pages.

The author did an amazing job of creating a world that I could truly immerse myself in.

Even now, as an adult, I still find myself drawn to it.

It's a classic that will always have a special place in my heart.

I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a great read that will touch their soul.

Five stars all the way!

After passing her knight's exam and revealing herself as a girl, Alanna sets out to have adventures. First, she goes to the Bazhir, whom she met during her time as a page, in the desert. She manages to become a member of a tribe and has to learn to deal with her unwanted magical gift there. She also has to figure out her feelings towards Prince Jonathan.

Alas, it's difficult. I found an English review (by Bookishrealm) on Goodreads that really spoke to me.

On one hand, the book brings a lot of character development for Alanna and contains some powerful scenes where it's discussed what marriage brings, when a person feels ready for such a commitment, and that the decision for or against it must always lie with the people involved.

On the other hand, from today's perspective, the book suffers from the horribly stereotypical portrayal of the "desert people" and some harsh cases of "white feminism / white supremacy". For example, when Alanna single-handedly abolishes traditions of the Bazhir that are considered outdated from the outside, and of course the progressive members are extremely grateful for this impulse from the outside. Or when Alanna tries to persuade girls to take off their veils against their will. The author is well aware of these problems, and in newer (English?) editions, there is supposedly a foreword by the author in which she comments on this.

Nevertheless, it remains the worst book in the series for my taste so far. I also generally find it a bit of a pity that since the second book, there has been such a strong focus on love. I found the first book refreshing precisely because other things, which are also important, were in the spotlight. Even though Alanna has proven that she can be assertive and independent, she is still, albeit indirectly, very dependent on / dominated by the men in her environment.

Nevertheless, I'm very curious about the fourth and final book, because despite all the criticism, Tamora Pierce writes very pleasantly and I really enjoy reading the story.

It was just okay.

The aspect that bothered me the most was indeed the character development. It felt as if everyone underwent drastic changes without any clear or justifiable reason.

I truly don't understand Jonathan anymore. Why did he suddenly transform into a spoiled prince when he was supposed to be taking on new responsibilities selflessly?

And then there's Alanna. I didn't like how she immediately went to bed with George right after hearing that Jon found a new princess.

She claimed it wasn't rebound and that it was "what should've happened between us a long time ago." But sorry, that just doesn't make sense to me.

I've had a quick look at the ending and realized, for the hundredth time, that I'm rooting for the wrong guy in this love triangle again. That's really annoying.

Also, I wish the romance had been handled better. At times, all the relationships seem more casual than anything else.

Why are they sleeping with each other so easily? I wonder if this is part of the custom since the setting is supposed to be medieval.

Thom also suddenly changed into this Roger 2.0, but without any subtlety. In the last book, he still seemed like a very nice guy. I really hope there's an explanation for this.

The entire Song of the Lioness quartet is truly and absolutely brilliant.

It is such a great and uplifting series, especially for young girls. It is not only smart and funny but also brave and terrifically exciting.

I first read this wonderful series when I was in middle school. At that time, it immediately captured my heart and imagination.

Even today, after all these years, I still find great pleasure in re-reading it.

The stories within the quartet are filled with adventure, friendship, and the growth of the main character.

It teaches valuable lessons about courage, determination, and believing in oneself.

The vivid descriptions and engaging plotlines make it a joy to read over and over again.

I highly recommend this series to anyone, especially those who are looking for an inspiring and entertaining read.

It is a classic that will continue to touch the hearts of readers for generations to come.

ARGH! Once again, we are left with incomplete stories! It is so blatantly obvious that this book is merely the first half of a narrative that will reach its conclusion in Lioness Rampant. It is incredibly frustrating to see it end so abruptly, as if it were a complete novel on its own. However, perhaps this was a time when Pierce didn't possess the influence she has today and couldn't manage to get a thicker book published.

My main takeaway from this book can be summed up as SCREW YOU, JONATHAN. He has the audacity to assume that Alanna wants to marry him without even bothering to wait for her response. And when she challenges him about it, he has the nerve to call her unwomanly and claims that at least the girls at the palace \\"act like women.\\" GTFO, PRINCE JON. At this juncture, I'm exasperated with Alanna for not realizing that she would be better off without him. But perhaps this will be resolved in the next installment. I have a great deal of affection for George Cooper, but I would also be content if Alanna ended up alone and pursued her own path. She desires to be a Knight and embark on adventures, and I don't think she should sacrifice that for a guy.

I was pleased with the continuation of feminist themes in this book. Alanna undertakes the training of two young girls to become sorceresses, which initially upsets their tribe. It is difficult to fathom that just a couple of years ago, Alanna was still masquerading as a boy and living in fear that someone would discover her secret. Now, she is \\"The Woman Who Rides Like a Man,\\" causing a stir and defying expectations wherever she goes.

I'm still eyeing you suspiciously, Crystal Sword. And you too, Thom. You three, Claw. I have a sense that I'm supposed to assume that Claw is secretly Duke Roger, but wouldn't someone have recognized him by now, regardless of the scars?