This ending seemed a bit hasty, yet overall it was a rather pleasant conclusion.

The love triangle aspect took a backseat for the majority of the book, which was a relief. Alanna embarked on a genuine adventure, and there was an intriguing treason-like plot.

The conclusion left me with the thought, "Oh wait, that's it? It's over already?" Everything was wrapped up too neatly. I did appreciate that she opted for a more realistic resolution to the love triangle situation, but I also wish the love triangle hadn't occurred in the first place. It significantly detracted from the more captivating plot and character developments throughout the series.

I don't truly regret reading these books, but I also have a strong sense of "meh" overall. I'm not certain I would recommend this to anyone who doesn't have a particularly strong interest in fantasy and female leads, as those two elements were its only redeeming qualities.

Perhaps with a bit more time and attention given to the conclusion and a different approach to the love triangle, this series could have been even more engaging. However, as it stands, it's an average read with some亮点 and some不足之处.

This was a truly good ending. It wrapped up all the loose ends and left me with a sense of satisfaction.

I really enjoyed the whole series from start to finish. Each episode had its own unique charm and kept me on the edge of my seat.

The characters were well-developed and their relationships added depth to the story. I found myself invested in their lives and rooting for them throughout.

The plot was engaging and full of twists and turns that I never saw coming. It kept me guessing until the very end.

Overall, this series was a great entertainment experience and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a good show to watch.

I'm already looking forward to seeing what the creators come up with next.

The final book in the Song of the Lioness Quartet is truly the most poignant one.

The love story within it is truly remarkable. It represents the kind of romance based on attraction rather than cohesion, which many of us have experienced at some stage in our lives.

To endure the aftermath of a breakup, not because of a lack of love but due to incompatibility, is indeed a sign of emotional maturation.

In this concluding volume, Alanna has fully come of age. As an adult, facing war no longer holds the allure of glory but rather brings with it loss, betrayal, and the need for absolution.

It is precisely through experiencing loss that Alanna ultimately discovers inner peace within herself.

This final book takes the reader on an emotional journey, exploring the complex themes of love, war, and personal growth, leaving a lasting impression.

It's done :(

I'm sad even though I know Alanna will be back in the next few series, but not as a main heroine.

Tamora Pierce's afterword, where she said something like Alanna was a bed sharer or used some elaborate word and explanation for Alanna sleeping with three guys in her life, really made me laugh.

:D I loved her final choice of boy. I would've picked the same.

It's interesting how Pierce developed Alanna's character throughout the series. Her adventures and relationships were engaging and kept me hooked.

Although I'm sad that she won't be the main focus in the upcoming series, I'm still looking forward to seeing how her story continues and how she interacts with the other characters.

Maybe there will be new adventures and challenges for her to face, and I can't wait to find out.

Overall, I've really enjoyed reading about Alanna and her journey, and I'm sure I'll continue to love Tamora Pierce's books.

It's truly kind of impossible for me to accurately describe the profound impact Alanna had on me as a young girl. She was like a guiding light in my formative years. She taught me a valuable lesson that people will most often view your paralysing rage as "cute" rather than intimidating. This realisation was both eye-opening and empowering. Moreover, she sparked within me a lifelong desire to have a talking cat with purple eyes. It's a dream that has stayed with me all these years. I generally consider the Immortals quartet as my absolute favourite, but there's no doubt that Alanna definitely had the most significant impact on me. I re-read either this particular story or the entire Immortals series probably once a year. It's a ritual that brings me back to those magical times. And if I ever have a daughter, this will be required reading for her without a doubt!!

1988? I can't believe this was published that long ago.

It's truly remarkable. It's not just Alanna's courage, her fighting abilities, and her noble heart that make this series an icon. It's also the story that wholeheartedly supports self-exploration and discovery. This can be achieved through various means such as traveling to far-off places, learning about new and diverse cultures, or even falling in love. The message that girls can grow into their own skin and be content with who they are by making their own decisions is a powerful one. It may not be subtle, but it is highly effective.

God, I will really miss Liam calling Alanna, "kitten." It was such a charming and endearing term that added a special touch to their relationship. The way he said it always made my heart melt. I'll cherish those moments and the entire series for a long time to come.

So reading now years later,

I find this series not as startling as it was when I first encountered it.

That doesn't mean I don't love the series just as much.

It just means more has been published that goes in different places like this did when it first blasted onto the scene.

Over the years, the literary landscape has evolved, and new and diverse works have emerged.

What once seemed revolutionary now has more company in exploring unique themes and ideas.

However, this series still holds a special place in my heart.

The characters and their stories are still engaging and memorable.

It may not have the same impact it did initially, but it has contributed to the growth and development of the genre.

And for that, I am grateful.

As I continue to read and discover new books, I will always look back on this series with fondness.

It will always be a part of my literary journey.

I persistently deceived myself into believing that this series belonged to the fantasy genre. However, with the final installment, it is time to be courageous and admit that it is far from that. “The Song of the Lioness” should be relegated to the bottom shelf of the romance section (ideally in a flooded basement). Every single one of the four books serves merely as a pretext for the main protagonist to engage in certain activities. And no, I am not referring to sword fights. Well, perhaps I am, but not with ordinary swords.

In the following, you will not encounter a traditional review. Instead, it is a simplified synopsis to give you a taste of what lies ahead. This time, Alanna of Trebond (and now also of Olau, as if she didn't already have enough unearned privileges) arrives in a random town during her never-ending escapades as an errant knight. She is blissfully unaware that she is becoming a celebrity – such is her astuteness – as she is too preoccupied with doing as she pleases to notice the reactions of those around her.

Being a knight typically involves tasks like border patrols and other mundane duties for the average person. But fear not! Alanna did not spend half her life cheating and the other half cavorting with well-connected males only to end up doing what everyone else does. Instead, she pursues whatever interests her. And mainly, this consists of pondering whether to marry, and if so, whom, and why not the person she is currently sleeping with between random acts of fortunate magic and brave gestures. Our Alanna is truly entrepreneurial.

Up until now, we were led to believe that Alanna's future lay between Jonathan the Prince (despotic yet royalty has its advantages that Alanna indulged in more than once) and George the Prince (prince of thieves, the naughty boy, so delightfully scintillating! A thrill that Alanna relished several times).

Forget that tiresome duo and the exhausting love triangle. This time, the Lioness meets the Dragon of Shag Shang. And promptly has an encounter with him. Just kidding, first, she asks some fundamental questions like “Who are you?” and “What do you do?” and then she has an encounter with him (but not before fainting first, because there's nothing like a first impression).

After that grand opening, we reluctantly return to the real problems of the world. Such as: Alanna doesn't know how to flirt. The drama! Also, she can't use the techniques her newest champion has mastered, so she makes him teach her against all odds and rules. Because she is Alanna, and she always gets what she wants.

The trouble is, her lover also presents her with some serious challenges and asks the fundamental question that every fantasy protagonist faces at some point: “Do you plan to marry?” Of course, he would ask just that. Poor Alanna! She's in a quandary again. What is she going to do? What indeed. She dons a dress, because hey, what else can a knight do when in a tight spot, right? The dress is her former lover's favorite and has never failed her thus far.

Alas! The Dragon is not impressed. The brute. Alanna is forced to flee, throw a tantrum, and be thoroughly unhappy for the entire evening. Oh, how she hates him! She experiences a serious existential crisis at this point, and since it's early in the book, don't expect a breakthrough: it would be counterproductive. She wonders why she keeps the company of a shag Shang who unsettles her in so many different ways, none of which have the thrilling quality of a naughty boy or the perks of royalty! Perhaps it was the wrong choice altogether? But is Alanna capable of making a wrong choice? That has yet to occur, so she is relieved and off she goes to explore. With the Dragon in tow.

They encounter some random individuals on their journey, and because some of them are children, Alanna is not overly excited. And because others are clearly female, instead of saying “Hello, I am Alanna,” she remarks “Shame your mother didn't drown you at birth,” because that's how chivalrous and knightly she is, even in an ambush situation. I'm sure many of you would struggle to maintain your wits and dignity under such dire circumstances.

Thus, the journey continues with the expanded group. But there is no Jonathan with his perks or George with his charms, only the Dragon who has some issues (with her gift, no less!). And we can't really blame the fact that changing diapers only deepens Alanna's existential crisis.

There is only one solution to this. Alanna craves glory as a baby needs new shoes. It's not easy, but needs must. Off she goes alone and single-handedly accomplishes what no one else could, and receives another magic trinket as a reward (don't worry, this takes only a chapter). She no longer needs the Dragon. Oh good, because he moved his things back to his own room.

Good riddance. Also: How fortunate for her! Now is the time to appreciate Alanna's impeccable timing. Unbeknownst to her – because who would bother to stay in touch with their own King (especially when she now has the Dragon) or their own kingdom (what does she owe them anyway?) – her land experiences a series of unfortunate events bordering on disaster. Of course, we must be informed of what is happening out there while Alanna enjoys her story, but I'm sure there is no reader present who wouldn't allow for a bit of telling of random plot parts instead of accompanying Alanna in her serious pursuits.

Here it is: a terribly evil person was resurrected by none other than Alanna's own brother, who is supposedly the most cunning sorcerer but really had no idea what he was doing. And anyway, what proof is there that the terrible person is still terrible and plotting a coup like before? None whatsoever, and of course, we are all innocent until proven guilty, so the antagonist is free to roam around and plot, and this couldn't be better because Alanna has the opportunity to be a hero again.

Do you want to know why? Because she perceives the danger when everyone else is blind to it. That's how perceptive and intelligent our Alanna is. And so she performs heroic deeds, uses her gifts and her unparalleled skills, averts what can be averted, and smooths what can be smoothed, and all is well.

And she is on such a roll that she even manages to resolve the fundamental issue. She tells all her lovers what they should do with their lives and finally settles on one. She does! But she is not a tamed lioness; she is still wild. And I truly wonder whether the sequel to this series could dethrone the Sarah J. Masses and other new adult erotica masquerading as fantasy, because mark my words, the potential is there.

Also in the series:
1. Alanna: The First Adventure ★★★☆☆
2. In the Hand of the Goddess ★☆☆☆☆
3. The Woman Who Rides Like a Man ★☆☆☆☆

In many aspects, this is truly my favorite among the Alanna books.

I have a deep affection for witnessing Alanna's self-discovery and growth. It's a delight to see her gain confidence, bravely face insurmountable odds, and wholeheartedly accept herself as both a woman and a knight.

The way this series handles relationships is something I truly love. Alanna is permitted to date multiple men, and it's okay that some of these relationships may not have long-term potential. Even when they fall apart, it still hurts, which adds a layer of authenticity. What's more, these relationships are ultimately about her, not about the men. It's not about choosing which man she likes the best, but rather which man's goals and lifestyle align with those she has already chosen for herself. I sincerely wish more modern YA authors would learn from Pierce's example here, as it's one of the few portrayals of a love triangle (or quadrangle?) that I can actually tolerate.

I also like all the new secondary characters we encounter. Pierce does an excellent job of characterizing them with very limited screen time. I initially wanted to rate it four stars. However, I don't think the plot and pacing entirely justify that rating. There is a noticeable choppiness between the first and second halves of the book.

While the idea of Roger returning from the dead creates a chilling villain (and I believe it's a necessary one, as it allows Alanna to confront how much she has grown in a way a new villain couldn't), there is a great deal of unforgivable vagueness surrounding why Thom thought Roger, of all people, would be a good target for practicing necromancy and just what Roger is attempting to achieve. (I suppose the answer to the latter is, "He's insane," but that's never a very satisfying aspect of a villain's characterization. I have similar issues with Alex's characterization as well.)

Nevertheless, it's a satisfying conclusion to the series. And the final scenes always manage to bring a tear to my eye.

This was an absolutely spectacular ending to a truly great adventure.

Tamora Pierce, you have managed to stealthily make your way into my adventurous heart.

I deeply cherish the beauty of Tortall and all of its captivating stories.

Even though there are still some left for me to explore, I can't contain my excitement.

I find myself eagerly anticipating what lies ahead in this wonderful fictional world.

The vivid descriptions and engaging characters have made this journey an unforgettable one.

Each story within Tortall seems to add a new layer of depth and charm.

I am constantly amazed by the creativity and imagination that Tamora Pierce has poured into this series.

It's as if I have been transported to a place where anything is possible and adventures await at every turn.

I can't wait to continue my exploration of Tortall and discover more of its hidden treasures and secrets.

As we reach the conclusion of the Song of the Lioness quartet, looking back, it feels like a journey that was both swift and effortless, yet also rather lengthy. It was quick and easy in the sense that it didn't consume a great deal of my time to read, and the writing didn't dwell on minutiae. Quite the contrary, as all fans of this series are well aware. However, when I pause to consider that it's technically a journey spanning years, from the start of Alanna's transformation into a page to her full years of experience as a knight, I can't help but sense that we've accompanied this character on a significant odyssey, despite the rapid succession of events.

As other reviews have pointed out, Lioness Rampant combines two plots within one volume: first, the story of Alanna's quest for the Jewel, and second, all the intrigues and happenings surrounding Jonathon's coronation. The first plot/half of the book seemed a bit sluggish and dull to me, but the second half more than compensated for it. It was exciting, fast-paced, and yet detailed, with an ending that was more than satisfying.

What more can I say at the close of this series except that I relished traveling with Alanna, exploring new locales, and uncovering new skills alongside her. Compared to other book series, this one was a super-quick read, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself and will undoubtedly revisit it at some future date.

Rating: 5 / 5

I should have stopped reading this series after the first book.

And I'd like to dock half a star on this for the needless murder of a cat.

SIGH.

Maybe high fantasy isn't really my thing. Maybe I needed this magic system more fully explained than it was. Maybe I needed something more in-depth than a middle-grade series could provide. I'm not sure where this series went wrong.

(And speaking of middle grade, Alanna sure gets laid a lot for a middle-grade series. I'm just throwing that out there. And don't try to tell me that this book isn't middle grade, because it's not written above maybe a fifth grade level.)

I just couldn't get behind this. SPOILERS There was just no doubt that things would happen the way they did. Of course Alanna would be able to pass as a boy with no problems. Of course she'd become Jon's squire. Of course she'll pass her trial and become a knight. Of course they'll defeat the whatever it was in the first book. OF COURSE Jon isn't offended that she's been masquerading as a boy and basically abusing his trust. Of course Roger is evil, of course he isn't dead, of course he still has magic. Nothing is a surprise or suspenseful and everything turns out exactly the way you assume it will.

It's just boring. I think if it weren't middle grade, there could have been a lot more to it, a lot more development. For example, the characters could have had more complex personalities and motives. The magic system could have been explored in greater detail, with more rules and consequences. The plot could have had more twists and turns, making it less predictable. These elements would have made it a much better series.