Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
33(33%)
4 stars
33(33%)
3 stars
34(34%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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This series is truly perfection!

The premise of the series is about a girl who has the gift of communicating with animals, but it is so much more than that. It's not just about communication; it's about a precious bond that is truly beautiful to read about. I find myself extremely jealous of Diane. Oh, if only I had wild magic! This is such a wonderful story!!!

The most amazing chapter in the world is Diane Loses Her Temper! Wow, it was simply great. Just imagine how cathartic it would be to just destroy a palace! And her newest, temporary power is crazy cool! Of course, when reading about her new dinosaur friends, I envisioned The Land Before Times.

And let's not forget the characters! There are the old ones that we know and love, like Alanna. Sadly, there is no George, Jonathan, Thayet, or any of the kids. This generation includes Diane, Numair, Kitten, and even Rikash. And then there are the brand new ones: Kaddar, Zek, and surprisingly, I grew to like Varice! And of course, there is Weiryn!!!
July 15,2025
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I really enjoyed this book.

It is much better than the first two in the series. However, it is not quite as good as the first series itself.

The reason it wasn't a 5/5 for me is that I still wasn't as enthralled as I thought I could be.

Nevertheless, there is great development on Daine.

Although I think I have an idea of where this series is headed.

After all, you can only have enemies that are so much more powerful than what the book has already presented.

I'm fairly certain, especially considering the title of the next book, that there will be literal gods fighting.

It will indeed be interesting to see how the story progresses from here.

I'm looking forward to finding out what adventures and challenges await Daine and the other characters in the upcoming installments of this series.

Hopefully, it will continue to surprise and engage me as much as this book did.
July 15,2025
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The inclusion of dinosaurs in this particular context really seems to take things to an extreme for me. It's like a point where it just goes a bit too far. However, despite that, there is still something lovely about the overall concept or the piece in question. Maybe it's the charm of the other elements that are present, or perhaps it's the unexpectedness of the dinosaur inclusion that in some strange way adds a certain allure.

Reread.
Even though the dinosaurs might seem out of place or a bit over the top, there is an undeniable appeal that lingers. It makes one wonder if this was a deliberate choice to push the boundaries and create something truly unique. And while it may have initially seemed like a "jump the shark" moment, upon further reflection, it could be seen as a bold and interesting creative decision that adds an extra layer of complexity and intrigue.

Reread.
July 15,2025
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July 15,2025
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Graded By: Stephanie


Cover Story: Let’s Play Dress Up


BFF Charm: Platinum


Swoonworthy Scale: 6


Talky Talk: Smorgasbord


Bonus Factors: Dinosaurs, Animal Friends, Ozorne’s Outfits, Daine Loses Her Temper


Relationship Status: BFFs



The book report offers an interesting overview of a particular story. The grading by Stephanie gives an indication of the quality and appeal of the book. The cover story, "Let’s Play Dress Up," seems to hint at a fun and perhaps imaginative aspect within the narrative. The BFF charm being platinum suggests a strong and valuable friendship at the core of the story. The swoonworthy scale of 6 implies that there are elements that might cause readers to feel a certain level of excitement or attraction. The "Talky Talk" described as a smorgasbord indicates a rich variety of conversations and dialogues. The bonus factors such as dinosaurs, animal friends, Ozorne’s outfits, and Daine losing her temper add even more depth and interest to the story. Overall, the relationship status of BFFs emphasizes the importance of friendship in the book. To read the full book report, click here.

July 15,2025
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Another thrilling ride

It was a journey that was filled to the brim with tension. Although this particular adventure had a reduced amount of action compared to some others, it more than made up for it with an abundance of scheming. The plot was thick with intrigue and clever maneuvers, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Every twist and turn was a masterstroke of planning, adding to the overall excitement of the experience. Despite the lack of non-stop physical activity, the mental gymnastics and strategic thinking involved made this ride no less exciting than any other. It was a testament to the power of a well-crafted story to engage and thrill, even without relying solely on high-octane action sequences.
July 15,2025
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The third installment in this series for middle schoolers truly ramps up the excitement once again.

I'm extremely glad that I decided to stick with the series because this book was more than worth the wait. I absolutely love how Daines' abilities are continuously progressing, which builds up to the thrilling final scene in this particular book.

I've never been a fan of monkeys; in fact, they're probably my least favorite among all the animals. However, this book managed to make me wish that I had one. The rats, on the other hand, were not an animal that I would have initially chosen for the role they played, but surprisingly, it worked really well.

I really like how all the animals in this story have such distinct and different personalities. The rats were mean and had to be bribed, while the whales were pacifists and firmly refused to engage in any fighting. Pierce does an outstanding job of making Daines' magic seem so incredibly realistic. I could completely immerse myself in this story and stay there for a long time.

The only thing about this series that makes me a bit sad is that my 11-year-old, who has a great love for animals, didn't take a liking to the first book. He got approximately halfway through it and just couldn't seem to get into the story. I really thought that he would enjoy it as much as I do, but unfortunately, that wasn't the case. Other than that, I'm truly enjoying this series and am eagerly looking forward to seeing how Pierce concludes it.
July 15,2025
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Daine is an extraordinary queen.

She has dedicated her life to a noble cause - freeing slaves and animals.

With a heart full of compassion and a spirit of justice, she fearlessly challenges the unjust systems that oppress these innocent beings.

Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has inspired many to join her in this worthy fight.

Under her leadership, countless slaves have been given their freedom, and animals have been rescued from cruel treatment.

Daine's determination and courage serve as an example to all, showing that one person can make a significant difference in the world.

She continues to work tirelessly, never wavering in her commitment to ensuring that all beings are treated with dignity and respect.

Her story is one of hope and inspiration, and it is a testament to the power of love and kindness.
July 15,2025
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Scary with you is better than scary without you


Daine, Numair, and others are embarking on a journey to Carthak for the peace meetings involving Carthak, Tortall, and other regions. Daine tags along with the intention of examining the Emperor's sick birds. However, unbeknownst to them, the Emperor has no genuine plans for peace. Instead, he devises a scheme to utilize Daine in order to sabotage the peace talks. This sets the stage for an exciting and unpredictable adventure.


Another remarkable aspect of this story is the absence of a prominent romance. While I have a penchant for romance in general, I appreciate that this series doesn't solely revolve around it. Instead, it delves deeper into Daine's powers, her connection with animals, and the crucial task of preventing a war. The Graveyard Hag, in particular, is an extremely captivating character, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the narrative. I'm aware that romance might make an appearance in the final book, but for now, I'm thoroughly enjoying the focus on other aspects of the story.

July 15,2025
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I really enjoyed this particular installment. It was, without a doubt, significantly more political compared to the others. While politics isn't always my most favored topic in books, I have to admit that I liked the way this one was developed. There was a moment that came about two-thirds of the way through that really took me by surprise and left me rather upset. However, in the end, the conclusion was satisfying. I'm eagerly looking forward to Daine's next adventure. As she continues to grow and mature, not only as a person but also in her powers, I'm excited to see what new challenges and experiences await her.

July 15,2025
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The beginning of this novel was, to be honest, a bit disconcerting.

We transitioned from the initial (unofficial) declaration of war in book one, to treason from within the country in book two, and then to sending ambassadors abroad and healing sick birds in book three. It was a rather startling change of pace, truly!

The description of the kingdom (Carthark? Something like that...) in this novel definitely evoked many images similar to those in the Prince of Egypt movie. However, it was less about pyramid building and more about "pretty things and slaves to make it". _.

Nonetheless, I really did enjoy the way they expanded upon the Tortallan universe in this novel. We got to learn so much more about the history of the kingdom(s). And, I mean, dinosaurs! I am 100% here for that :|

The ending of the novel was quite great. With the reanimated dinosaurs (etc) and the animals of the empire working together to take down the corrupt empire (...and his castle). I thought Rishak's(?) "gift" to the emperor was a brilliant twist. Turning him into one of the "beasts" he was blackmailing as revenge, thus separating him from his wealth and humanly power? Brilliant! Also, I didn't believe for even a second that Numair was dead after all that talk of the magical copies of yourself. But it was still well done, and it was quite funny to have him there at the end for clean-up after Daine had already taken over ;D
July 15,2025
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A slow burn at the beginning as we're introduced to a new country and system of government.

Daine is a truly fun protagonist. What I really like is that Tamora Pierce has managed to keep her away from romantic entanglements so far.

When we look at Beka and Alanna, they were rather hampered by such relationships, and it annoyed me to no end.

I do wish that the pace in these novels was as fast as those in the other two series. However, it is still interesting to delve deeper and deeper into the magic system that has been introduced in this series.

The second half of this novel progresses quite nicely, and it has a satisfying conclusion that leaves the reader feeling content.

Overall, despite the slower start, the book has its own charm and吸引力, especially for those who enjoy exploring new magical worlds and following the adventures of a unique protagonist like Daine.

It will be interesting to see where the story goes from here and how Daine continues to develop in this new and exciting environment.

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