Lioness Rampant (Song of the Lioness)

This is the best of the Lioness series, in my opinion. I came back to this series after having read it in middle school, and then subsequently reading her later books. I can't help thinking that Alanna shows some qualities of being too perfect and having all of these great guys falling for her (that along with the purple eyes almost makes her seem like a Mary Sue, though I don't think that it completely fits). I love the characters of Thayet and Buri, and the conversations between Jonathan and Alanna about their relationships that are more mature than I could understand when I was young. I think it is important for younger people to realize that your first love isn't necessarily the person you are meant to be with for life. Roger is a great antagonist in this book, but I found that I wanted Thom to maybe actually have turned to the dark side rather than dabbling.

I like most books by Tamora, but that the brother of our heroine brought the evil (and mass murderer) Roger of Conté to life again and that the king (who's wife was dying because of the evil works of Roger) pardoned Roger completely was way too stupid; and that his son after his death kept on accepting him in the palace was also rather extreme.
And the way George Cooper let the Claw take his kingdom and the way he always waited for Alanna, while she worked through the beds of some other men, didn't really make me like him anymore; that level of doormat-like behavior is not nice anymore.

Lioness Rampant is book four of the Song of the Lioness quartet by Tamora Pierce following Alanna's continued journey as a Knight of the Realm.

PS: if you haven't read the earlier books, do that now. Don't read on, there may be spoilers for earlier books.

Alanna is on a journey out of Tortall to rescue the Dominion Jewel and bring it back for the glory of king and country. This trip takes her out of Tortall where she meets some new friends and risks her life to bring back the one thing that might help Jon save Tortall from the wicked Duke Roger, back from the dead.

On her return to Tortall, Alanna realizes that she might have to give up being a knight errant if she wants to support Jon and her kingdom to the best of her ability. Lioness Rampant is about embracing destiny and becoming all you can be, even if it's not what you thought it would be.

The last book of the series. I'm so sad :( It was good. Alanna finally comes back home and the main plots are resolved. Felt like the series went by so fast, but that makes sense since the author had intended this to be one big book in the beginning. I'm happy that she ended up with who she did. The books might not be as detailed as other adventure books I've read but it really was a fast read and entertaining to read. I wasn't bored at all.

Not a must read before you die but good all around.

Don't know how to hide spoilers on an the store review, so see my profile's website link for spoilers.

this book was so, so good! i mean, sure, the first time i read it, i wanted her to marry jon! he is a spoiled BRAT! god, if any guy ever spoke to ME that way, i'd kick his ass to pluto and back! i mean, ok, sorry, i'm talking about the third book! i swear, i can't even count how many times i have read this series in my life. i first read it when i was 11, now i'm 13, and i still love it! i remember my mom screaming at me at 3 in the morning when she woke up and i was still awake, reading this book. the only problem i had with it was her and liam! he was like, twice her age! i loved the ending though (i won't give it away for any of you who haven't read it, but heck, if you have not read it yet, what kind of loser are you?), but i didn't think that jon and thayet were good for each other. i liked him and josiane the best! hehehehehehe, sorry, but if it weren't for them, alanna and george, well, ya'll know what i'm talking about. i mean, was jon ever really love her seriously? i don't really think so, cause he never really acted like it. i do want to know what would have happened if they HAD gotten married. it actually would have been kinda funny. oh yeah, did you know, the series started out as a single adult novel, then tamora turned it into a young adult (i don't know why they put these into the 9-12 category, i mean, they openly talk about sex in these!) series. if you don't believe me, go to [...] it's really cool, they talk about daine, numair, alanna, jonathan, george, and princess kalasin. any way, i loved it, so if you haven't read it, get your butt to a bookstore or library NOW!

Alanna of Trebond and Olau, the only woman knight in Tortall didn't pick an easy life. From tearing and pulling muscles and breaking bones, to getting her shield is the life Alanna has always wanted. Her days and years when she had disguised herself as a boy under the harsh and painful life of training to become a knight are gone and not once did Alanna miss them. In this book Lioness Rampant fourth book of the series Song Of The Lioness by Tamora Pierce, Alanna takes flight on a journey to find out who she really is and what she wants in life.
Alanna of Trebond and Olau, a short purple eyed red head, has the gift of magic, former shaman of the Bazhir tribe the Bloody Hawk is on a journey to claim the Dominion Jewel in glory of Tortall so if and when prince Jonathan becomes king, he will have limitless power for good. Alanna's journey changes from how it began to totally different. She meets new people like Princess Thayet, Buri and the Shang Dragon who help her make a path in the freezing deep snow. Will Alanna's stubbornness be enough to walk through a deathly blizzard and risk her life??????????
Even though this book is a fantasy along with the rest of the series, these books show heart, courage, stubbornness, bravery, and the will to go on when the world suddenly abruptly stops; and proves that women can do anything good as or better then men.
I recommend this book to kids 11-18 and adults because it might not be appropriate for younger children with the violence, swords, daggers, bloodshed and everything else. I hope this book springs open your mind as it has mine for a fantasy becoming reality.
Alanna of Trebond an Olau worked hard to win her shield and no one can ever forget that. Her courage, bravery and stubbornness made a change in the world, as she became the greats knight in Tortall of all times even though, she was a woman.

I think that this could be the most captivating, action-packed book in the series, except maybe the first one. The characters seemed much more realistic and plausible than in the previous three. In this fourth and final installment in the quartet, Alanna, looking for something to do, learns that the fabled Dominion Jewel, an object of immense power, is real, and can be found at the Roof Of The World, which is like the North Pole. Along the way, she meets Liam, a karate master, Thayet, an exiled princess, and Buri, her stubborn bodyguard. Alanna goes to the Roof, and either gets the jewel or doesn't, (I don't want to give away what happens.) and heads back down to Corus, where she spent most of her adolescence. There, she finds the organization of George's ring of thieves crumbled, Duke Roger is back from the dead, and her brother Thom is in serious trouble. This gives Alanna enough to handle for the second portion of the book, which gives an intense climax and a heart-wrenching ending. I loved seeing Alanna grow as a character, and Tamora Pierce grow as an author.

This was a good story with some great characters. I really liked the plot (the stuff with the earth quake was really great). The only problem was Jon, George, Liam, and Alanna were not amoung my favorite characters (my favorites were the tough and loyal Buri, kind and understanding Thayet, The charming and evil Duke Roger, the intellegent Alex, Rispah, Coram, Gary Roaul and a bunch of other non-main characters).
Its just that the characters I listed as ones I didn't like seemed to have only one purpose. Hear are my reasons. Jon seemed so sweet and charming through out the first two books and, although he changes back in the fourth (this) book, he was a total jerk in the third and I'm SURE it was just so Alanna could be with George instead. And its not like I have any problem with Alanna being with George. I just wish she could pick one and only one guy and NOT cheat on him. And I have a few problems with George, too. First of all he has been, is, and in my eyes always will be a theif, no matter how you cut it. And wasn't he like fourty to Alannas eighteen anyway?
And finally WHAT IS WITH LIAM, ANYWAY? He is a huge jerk and yet Alanna allows a week to get to know him and then cheats on George with him. He also thinks he is better than Alanna just because she was not a Shang Warrior and she had the gift. The only reason Liam was in the books was so Alanna could cheat on George(again) but then Alanna had to get back together with George so how is Liam dealt with? He is killed off. HONESTLY. Not to mention that Alanna sleeps with all three of them.
And Alanna herself? Alanna. She definitly does change in these books but not, despite what all the characters say, for the better. She goes from being s sweet, strong, moralistic, honest, tenacious, honorable girl to a young woman with an attitude problem and a considerable lack of moral standards. In the second book George described her as "Alanna the heartless" because she told him she didn't want a lover. However I think I prefer "Alanna the heartless" to "Alanna the..." well I can't write that word on the store.
Don't get me wrong on this either. Overall I think these books were really good. I'm just really good at ranting about the things

In this brilliant last novel of a marvelous quartet, Alanna, Coram (her man-at-arms), Liam Ironarm (who is her latest boyfriend), and her magical cat, Faithful, journey to the Roof of the World to find the famed Dominion Jewel for Tortall. On the way they meet and join Princess Thayet and Buri of Sarain, fleeing for their lives. But as they travel, Tortall is in danger, and Prince Jonathan (Alanna's friend and former boyfriend) is now King. So when Alanna gains the jewel, she doesn't stay to chat. She rushes home, because her twin, Thom, has raised her mortal enemy from the dead--even though he claims his magic stayed in the grave. But behind the scenes, a conspiracy is going on, not only one against King Jonathan, but against yet another of Alanna's boyfriends, George Cooper, who is King of Thieves. And so they are all in danger.......
In this novel, everything is wrapped up and all the knots are tied (I mean this in more than one way). Alanna finally gets married, and though some of our friends from these books die, Lioness Rampant has a sad, sweet ending. You should have a box of Kleenex ready. But this is a beautiful book, as are the first three, and everyone should read it.

Lioness Rampant (1988) is the fourth Fantasy novel in the Song of the Lioness subseries of the Tortall series, following The Woman Who Rides Like a Man. The initial volume in this sequence is Alanna.

In the previous volume, Alanna and Coram were riding through the desert in southern Tortall on their way to Tyra. They were trying to avoid the hill and Bazhir tribes, but Coram saw a dust cloud coming toward them. They rode away from the oncoming tribesmen at a gallop.

The sand slowed down their horses, so the hill tribesmen caught up with them. Alanna and Coram turned and Alanna led a charge against their pursuers. Alanna took down one man, but then found herself engaged with a large and skilled tribesman with a crystal sword.

The tribesman broke the blade of Alanna's sword, so she drew her axe. Then the tribesman turned away from her and rode away. A black arrow pierced his body.

The Bazhir had arrived. They confronted Alanna and Coram. Halef was questioning Alanna and not hearing the right answers. Then another Bazhir man recognized Alanna as the Burning-Brightly One who had freed the Bazhir from the Black City.

In this novel, Alanna of Trebond and Olau is a Knight of the Realm of Tortall. She is also the Lioness and the twin sister of Thom. She is accompanied by Faithful, a magical cat.

Myles of Olau is Alanna's adopted father. He has agents everywhere in the vicinity of Tortall.

Coram Smythesson is a Man at Arms. He has known Alanna since she was a baby and helped raise her.

Nahon Jendrai is a scholar living in Berat of Maren. He knows much about old languages.

George Cooper is a commoner in Corus. He is also a Rogue and King of the Thieves of Tortall.

Liam Ironarm is the Shang Dragon. He is highly proficient in arms and unarmed combat.

In this story, Alanna, Faithful and Coram ride into Berat. They turn into the stable of the Wandering Bard. The innkeeper comes out to welcome Alanna and to remind her that he is the agent of Myles in Berat.

He offers her a drink of juice and asks about her father. Alanna says he was fine two months before when they last talked. She asks him about the troubles in Sarain.

Taking a hot bath, Alanna has a vision about a gem in a golden setting. She knows that more information will come later, so she continues to enjoy the bath. Afterward, she goes downstairs for a meal.

The innkeeper comes over to talk. He gives her more information about the civil war in Sarain. Great numbers of refugees are coming to Maren.

Alanna has an old map showing only the geological features of the area. A tiny star marks a spot in the Roof of the World. Runes are drawn near the star.

Another patron in the inn buys her a glass of wine. He is a large, muscular man who does not carry any visible arms. He comes over and introduces himself. Liam calls her kitten, which would normally irritate Alanna.

The next day, Alanna and Coram visit Jendrai. He examines the map and then translates the runes. The star indicates the location of the Dominion Jewel.

This tale takes Alanna, Coram and Liam across Sarain toward the Roof of the World. They find a group of youngsters fleeing from the fighting and heading for Rachia. The oldest are younger that her and the youngest is an orphaned infant.

Alanna decides to protect the youngsters. This in the last volume in this subseries, but the sequence continues with Wild Magic in the Immortals Quartet.

Highly recommended for Pierce fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of magical gifts, armed and unarmed combat, and a bit of romance. Read and enjoy!

-Arthur W. Jordin

I first become hooked on Tamora Pierce's books from the Immortals Quartet, being as, at the time, I was obsessed with horses and Wild Magic had horses on the cover. But I was only 11. Give me some credit. Anyway, I aged a bit (I'm 13 now) and became to truly be able to appreciate the deep emotions and morals, become engrossed in the action filled fight sequences, and not be too intimidated by the open talk of sex, all of which are present in this book. I could have reviewed any of the other Alanna books, but I chose this one because of the emotions present. Also, I'd like to warn you this review has spoilers.
Alanna must find the Dominion Jewel as a coronation gift for Jonathan, because both his parents have died. On her journey she meets Liam the Shang Dragon and her newest lover, Princess Thayet, and her guardian Buriram (Buri) who are fleeing Sarain. When she returns, she finds that Thom has resurrected Duke Roger and the thief Claw is actually her old nemesis Rallon! Rallon, Roger, Delia, Josianne, and some others are plotting against Prince and soon-to-be-King Jonathan, and Alanna must stop them, as well as choose who she loves, undergo some Shang training from Liam, and hook up Thayet and Jon. The ending is a true tearjerker, with the deaths of Thom, Liam, and Faithful, the last of which becomes the personal pet of the Goddess. Anyone who enjoys tales of medieval chivalry, magical fantasy, or just enjoys a good story will love this book.
You will laugh and cry with the characters, feel their pain when they suffer from a loss or are injured in battle, feel exasperation at Alanna's obstinance and temper, and, of course, always root for the good guy.

Song of the Lioness by Tamora Pierce is the 1st in a 4 part series about a young girl- Alana - who uses her brain to get what she wants in life. My daughter and I first read it when she was a young teen and were mesmerized by the story of smart, brave Alana. We went on to read the rest of the series and many more books by Tamora Pierce including the stories about Beka Cooper.

Ms Pierce writes wonderful fantasy books aimed at the teen market. They are set in different times and lands but all feature great women role models for teens. Plus the books are fun for the adults who read with them. I recommend Song of the Lioness and all of the books by Tamora Pierce.

Alanna has grown a lot from the bad tempered page in the first adventure, and in this book you really get to see her shine. After parting ways with old friends in hope of a new adventure Alanna travels to Maren where she meets Liam, a tough redhead Shang Dragon who is tougher and stronger than she is, not to mention quite attractive! After the two make friends Alanna sets out with Coram and Liam to find the dominion Jewel, a legendary Jewel that can be a great gift Tortall. Unfortunately Tortall needs the Jewel much more than she suspects. Back in Tortall things are falling apart in more ways than she can ever suspect. But the worst thing that happens is when Alanna discovers that her greatest enemy, Duke Roger of Conte, has raised from the dead with help from her own brother!
Lioness Rampant is a thrilling finish to this great series. I was happy to meet great new characters such as Liam and Buri. Pretty much every major character who wasn't killed off (with the exception of one) or exiled has come back for a visit. Like all of Tamora's books Lioness Rampant, and the Alanna series in general, is fast paced and exciting. I can't wait to pick up another magical quartet written by Tamora Pierce.

This is the fourth and final book in the Song of the Lioness quartet. Since I read this quartet AFTER reading the other books in the Tortall series, I enjoyed reading about the early days of King Jonathan and Alanna, the King's Champion.

In this book, we meet Thayet, who marries Prince Jonathan. Alanna puts her romance with Jonathan firmly behind her and has a fling with Liang, the Shang Dragon. She is still unsettled, not quite sure where she fits in or what she wants to do. She comes across an ancient map that leads to a magical stone of power and sets off in pursuit of the stone. She also encounters Duke Roger again after he was brought back to life by Alanna's brother Thom.

I found this to be the weakest book in the quartet. Quite frankly, it was boring and tedious in spots and it seemed to be repeating themes that we saw in the earlier books. However, it finally did pick up at the end when Alanna goes to her final battle with Duke Roger.

Spoiler Alert: Several of our favorite characters die in this book. To me the saddest death was Alanna's cat, Faithful, although I knew the cat had to go back to the goddess at some point. However, this makes it a perfect book for teen-aged girls-- strong female character, light romance, tear jerker scenes and action.

Several reviewers have commented negatively on Alanna's proomiscuity in that during the course of this series she sleeps with three different men. However, Pierce handles this very deftly and matter of factly-- it is actually refreshing to see an author acknowledging that young women have and enjoy sex. There is certainly nothing lurid or titillating- Pierce simply refers to the fact that Alanna sleeps with Shang or George or whoever her current amour is. Since Pierce's characters in her other books are not in any way promiscuous, this seems to be more a facet of Alanna's character and a part of her exploration of what it is like to be a woman. I also really like the idea that Alanna is loved and pursued by three different men, dispelling the image that strong, assertive, physical women are ugly. I think it sets a good image for teens to emulate.

Even though I did not like this book as much as I liked the others in the quartet, it is still an very good book, and a satisfying end to The Song of the Lioness Quartet. I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 as a comparative factor- the first three books in the quartet are slightly better than this one.

I suppose I really shouldn't whinge about how neatly everything ties up in the end. It is fantasy, I suppose...anyway, it was quite well-written, and I'm glad TP didn't cop out and have Alanna marry Jon in the end. He's nice enough, and if he wasn't the Prince it would have been fine, but it really would have been a waste of 8 years and all her training if all she was going to do was have babies for him and do whatever your traditional fantasy queens do (even though Thayet doesn't do that). George is only about 6 years older than her anyway, so it's not that big an age difference, (he's 17 when she's 11), and he seems to understand her better. I think he'd been in love with her a lot longer than Jon had, and at least he never but the pressure on her. He waited until she was ready, which is more than what Jon did. I wished that TP had written more about Alanna in the years between this and Immortals, especially as Alanna's only 20 when the book ends, so I'd really like to see how she deals with the immediate future, rather than just have her crop up for cameos in later books.

this is a wonderful book full of action, death, magic, tragedy, and....romance! alanna has been a knight for a year, traveling with her friend, coram. alanna and coram meet liam, the shang dragon! they go on a quest to find the dominion jewel at the roof of the world, and alanna wants to bring it home for tortall!
will alanna, coram, and liam get the dominion jewel? or die trying? will alanna ever figure out why thom (her twin) is badly ill? will alanna decide who she wants to marry? will tortall be destroyed? will alanna decide what she wants to do with her life? become all woman? or all warrior? or both? if you want to find the answer, get your hands on the books, clear your day, and relax, by reading these wonderful books! as my teacher says, "Let your brain pig out, read!" these books are one of those types you wont want to put down. and once you finish this one, read her next series, the immortals! they are also great.
and to Tamora Pierce, thank you for your wonderful series, and may you write ones that are just are good, maybe better!

In this wonderful, adventure-packed book, you meet up with Alanna on her search for the Dominion Jewel. She encounters many obsticles on her path towards success. She meets a new guy (isn't she always doing that?), runs into the princess of a war-torn country, and finally discovers that she really does enjoy using her Gift. After retrieving the Jewel, she arrives home to find several interesting problems...(I won't ruin it for those of you who haven't read it yet.) Alanna finally does settle down and I think she made the right choice, you'll have to read it to see!! I would recommend this book to anyone who likes adventure, magic, and romance. If you like books where the odds are against you and the outcome is always unknown, then you'll love this book. This heroine proves she deserves to be a knight, so please read Lioness Rampant, you won't regret it!!

Fourth in the Song of the Lioness children's adventure series revolving around the Lady Alanna, a knight in the service of King Roald of Tortall.

My Take
I wasn't as happy with this particular installment as it seemed a bit condescending in parts. Although, that is my only quibble. I also suspect that part of my dislike is because there were too many deaths of characters I liked.

The Story
Alanna is still restless and anxious to achieve great deeds so when she learns about the Dominion Jewel and the effect it has on the kingdom of the one who holds it, she is determined to find it and take it home to Jonathan. I suspect she is also hoping for redemption for being a girl!

Along the way Alanna meets Liam Ironman, the Shang Dragon, who teaches her his hand-to-hand fighting skills during the day even as they love each other at night. Liam, however, is afraid of Alanna's magic and she realizes this is a barrier between them.
It is in South Maren that Alanna and company learn of the dangers of Saren, a country at war with itself. It will be a dangerous trek through Saren if Alanna is determined to find the Jewel. While traveling the back ways, they encounter Thayet and her band of refugees. There is no question but that Alanna, Coram, and Liam will escort them to their destination. a sanctuary for Thayet and her personal guard Buri and the orphaned children.

A sanctuary that proves false when they arrive. Deprived of this safety, Thayet and Buri flee with Alanna following her path to the jewel that will aid Prince Jonathan in the plots swirling around him and his throne.

The Characters
Sir Alanna (in pants and Lady Alanna when wearing a dress) increases her reputation and firms up her resolve. Coram continues to accompany her. Liam Ironman is the Shang Dragon, the elite. A champion of hand-to-hand fighting. The best of the best. Thom, Alanna's twin brother, is a Master and has become too full of himself. Too immature to handle the manipulation of those around him, he pushes too far and brings evil back from the dead. An evil plotting the downfall of the country and Prince Jonathan.

Thayet jian Wilima is the incredibly beautiful princess of Saren and daughter of the Warlord Kalasin but ineligible for the throne unless a man marries her to legitimize his claim to the throne for women are second-class citizens there. She had once been considered as a wife for Jon. Buri is of the K'mir tribe, similar to the Bazhir.

George Cooper, the beleaguered King of the Thieves, carefully returns to Corus to find his position under siege and his mother threatened. Claw is going against custom swearing fealty to his face and plotting behind his back, murdering George's supporters. A Claw who is revealed as an ancient enemy of Alanna's.

Prince Jonathan is to be crowned king. Queen Lianne never did recover totally from the Sleeping Sickness caused by Duke Roger and with her death, King Roald no longer has the will to live. Duke Roger's revival from death by Thom has thrown the nobles into confusion as Roger's greater experience weighs heavily against Jonathan's youth and inexperience. It is a very thin edge upon which the kingdom and Jonathan's life balances, all dependent upon Sir Alanna. Sir Myles is one of Jonathan's advisers and Alanna is his heir (see Woman Who Rides Like a Man). Si-cham is a Mithran priest sent for in hopes of curing Thom.

Princess Josiane is still at Court but no longer desired by Jonathan for he has noticed her petty cruelties. Alex of Tirragen is another of the plotters against the kingdom. A squire of Duke Roger's, he is eager to engage Alanna to the death. Delia of Eldorne is one of the four as well.

Chitral is greater than a god, more ancient than our own...with a wicked sense of humor! It is he who guards the Dominion Jewel.

The Title
The title reflects the importance Sir Alanna holds for Prince Jonathan and his upcoming coronation.

(This review was originally posted on Alexa Loves Books)

The fourth and final installment of the Song of the Lioness series was tantalizing, exciting and, as always, filled to the brim with adventure and magic, starring our beloved Alanna of Trebond. Though the third book is my favorite in the series, this one comes very, very close to surpassing it.

There are a few new characters introduced in this book. Liam Ironarm, the Dragon of Shang (which basically means he's the strongest, most powerful Shang fighter), is a welcome addition, both for his role as teacher and for his incredible skills (the way Tamora writes it, he's as fluid and graceful as any dancer). We also welcome two new female characters - Princess Thayet of Sarain and her personal bodyguard and friend Buriram Tourokum, both of whom are strong-willed, skilled and intellectual. I love the spice they add to the mix, as well as the eventual friendship that occurs between all of them (the others being Alanna and Coram).

The first part of the book covers Alanna's journey to retrieve the famed Dominion Jewel, which is basically the stuff of legends (and obviously, a challenge that she can't resist). There was enough magic and adventure to satisfy any magic-lover in this first part, including the final (and successful attempt) Alanna makes to obtain the Dominion Jewel.

The second part focuses more on the turmoil in Tortall - the King and Queen are dead, Jonathan is now king but has not been crowned, there's a famine and Thom (Alanna's twin) has been messing around with magic and brought Duke Roger back to life. In the midst of that Alanna is crowned the King's Champion (the first female ever, which is pretty cool!) and she starts uncovering a plot by Duke Roger, her old friend Alex of Tirragen, Lady Delia and a few others to take over the throne.

It is the day of Jonathan's coronation where everything tumbles into a mess. WIth a whole lot of twists and turns, a few deaths and some heart-pounding action, the conclusion we arrive at is satisfactory for me on all counts. (After all, good always triumphs over evil in the end!). There's a lot of action going on in the last few chapters, and I was eagerly poring through them and trying to figure out what would happen.

This book is a fast-paced, energy-filled ride with lots of action, turns and twists. It's fun to try and navigate through it all, as Tamora Pierce leads us to do, and find ourselves safely on the other side, our appetites for adventure sated completely.

it was really disapointing when alanna refused to marry jon in the previous book. but this book has such a sweet ending. ok don't call me crazy or anything but i read and reread this particular series four times, it was so good. i highly recomend this sereis. this book wasn't my favorite of the four but it definately was good! the thing i really like about tamora pierce is that everything doesn't stop at the end of a series. it keeps going on with other books. such as in the immortal series it has a new main character but alanna does apear quite a few time although it is sad to see her all grown up. the same thing happens in the protector of the small series which i'm in the middle of reading. daine and alanna both apear in that series which mrs. pierce is still writing, although again there is still another main character. these are my favorite books in the world and i've read quite a few books of this kind. these books really catch you atention and keep it to the end and leave you anxious for the next book but throughly satisfied and not many books can do that.

I really loved this whole Quartet,especially the first and last books.I,a medieval-sword-and-magic-loving fourteen year old lass,thoroughly enjoyed this book.Alanna is so cool and one of my role models!She just keeps going, and going, and going....About 7 months ago I read Louise Cooper's Indigo Saga,which is practically my FAV!-so far-and that's when I decided at least part of my life was going to be devoted totally to fantasy/fiction writing.Even though the I.Saga got me started,Pierce's Quartet pushed me even further.I Love It!!!-if anyone wants to read an 8 book saga that's sadder and not as light as this Quartet I reccommend some of Louise's work-I've almost finished writing me first book.Hopefully sometime in the future maybe one of you shall see my name on the cover of a fanatsy novel.-Keep up the good work,Tamora!!

This book was VERY exciting, and I couldn't put it down. The end of the story was satisfying, in my opinion( Hey- I know SOME people would rather have Alanna marry Jonathan but if they weren't right for each other-it even says that in the book- than why bother? If ya wanna book where someone marries a prince, go read Sleeping Beauty or some other silly story like that.) and I enjoyed it a lot. Alanna is in the Immortals, so I didn't go crazy like I am now waiting for the new book called The First Test. My mom even preordered the paperback version which is going to take even longer to come out! AUGHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! Well, ANYWAY, once you finish this book, you'll be hooked on the rest of the series about Daine, and so on. I've read this book (as well as all of the others) at least 3 times and now any other books I read seem just plain silly. Even ones by authors I've loved forever. If you're a sane person, you'll love this book!

I thought this book was the best in the series. I thought that the quest for the Dominion Jewel was amazing, and the Chitral really tested Alaana to much, but Alanna passed with flying colors. I thought that it was sweet how Liam came into the story, and she had to decide between George, Jon, and Liam. I thought Faithful should not have died, and neither should Liam. But the letter from Liam to Alanna in the Epilouge was really, really, really sweet. I thought that Thom was the biggest idiot in the world for doing what he did with Duke Roger(I will NOT reveal that). I thought that Alanna choosing George is right, and you know that in the Epilouge.
Reccomended Books: Song of the Lioness series, Immortals Series, Protector of the Small series, Young Royals Series, Daughters of the Moon Series, All Dear America books, All Royal Diaries(except Nzingha and Sondok which are both really boring).

The first time I saw this book, I liked it because it was large (Always good for ending a series.). Although parts of the book were a bit boring, I think it's an all-around good book that ends an all-around good series. I think, though, it was a quite brattish of Allana to walk out on faithful old George after what she was doing before. And that to people who think Jon was meant for her! He's soooo spoiled! Although the second book was the best, this one is good to and goes as a tie with the 1st book, both beating The Woman Who Rides Like A Man all hollow. but for people who think the ending was sad, you guys should read the Goldan Compass and it's runner-ups! They are great books (and tragic...)! Well, my reivew is about this book... You should read it. (If you haven't already) There are good books out there, but this is one that is worth buying in hardback.

Alanna decides once and for all to prove herself as a worthy knight (despite having already becoming famous for some of her deeds) by recovering the long lost Dominion Jewel, a powerful jewel that can do enormous good in the right hands. She plans to get it for King Jonathan's use in order to secure the kingdom of Tortall. She must also make peace with herself, accept love that she's been hiding from, bring a Princess to Tortall, and defeat an old enemy. Things never are easy for the God's chosen.

While I don't really see much evidence of the "famous temper" that Alanna the Lioness has, I found myself enjoying this story just as much as Pierce's other books. It's interesting to look at Alanna and Kel together (the only female knights of their time), both incredibly determined and strong. The two must overcome very different challenges-Alanna's stemming from her fear of magic and love and hiding her gender, Kel's stemming from her fear of heights and the fact that everyone knows she's a girl and many don't want her to succeed.

It's nice to finally know all of Alanna's story and I definitely find her to be my favorite Tortall world character. Through all the other serieses (how do you pluralize that?), I look forward to the small glimpses we get of her and wish for more.

It wasn’t until I finished the first one that I remembered how much I LOVED this series. It’s a mixture of action and adventure, courage and bravery, romance and heartbreak. It’s meant for middle grade readers, and I believe I was just leaving middle school when I read it the first time, but this is the first time I’ve picked it up since then.

I have read this book many, many times, and every time I like this story even better. Of course, you have to read the ones before it first, to set up the characters. While the plot for the Immortals series can be considered more interesting, it's not as realistic as the Song of the Lioness's plot, because most events do NOT change the course of time or save the universe. The story in Tortall before this book is of utter importance to the Tortallan characters, but, in this book, as Alanna ventrues out into other countries, she realizes that Tortall, touched by the gods or not, is not alone. Alanna herself is a very complex, believeable character, with issues that everyone has to face--losing loved ones, relationships with friends, and relationships with lovers. All in all, I really liked this book especially out of all of the books Ms. Pierce has written, and I hope she writes something else lilke it.

At last Alanna's got something to do!With her man-at-arms Coram in tow, she is in Barat getting an old map translated. When told its path might
intrest her, she's off! In her travels to find
the Dominion Jewel, the object which the map spoke
of, she meets up with a princess on the run and
her fiercely protective guard, the Shang Dragon(the most dangerous thing on two feet), her
patron,The Great Mother Goddess,and a huge host of
thieves! Back at home, however, things are not so hot for the royal family, including George Cooper,
Alanna's lover and King of the Thieves, who is having loyalty problems. AND, even though that rat
Roger is back, things work out all right in the end, if a little unfair for Alanna.

One of my favorite books of all time, hands down. Rip-roaring adventure, fascinating new characters, humor, romance, and a dramatic climax. This is a triumphant end to T. Pierce's great series. Most of the merits of this book have already been outlined here, and in greater detail. The real reason for my review is below, and be warned that it contains spoilers.
In Alanna's choice of George, Pierce illustrates a point that is, unfortunately, lost on most young readers. For my part, I know that when I was 13, the fact that Alanna ended up with George disappointed and escaped me. Over time, a few re-readings, and relationships of my own, however, the ending becomes more and more fitting.
For many years I dated a guy whom I loved with all my heart. Slowly however, I realized what a huge piece of myself I'd given to him. He had fallen for an offbeat, punk chick like myself and couldn't wrap his conservative sensibilities around it. Whenever I spoke in confidence with him about my dreams of being a freelance writer, artist, world-traveler, etc., he became very indignant - because it took time away from being with him.Every Christmas, birthday, etc. I received bland clothes and heaps of jewelery. Like Jon's intentions for Alanna, he wanted me to sit idly through life and be queen of his suburbanite castle, while my deep-seated dreams went by the wayside.
George stood by Alanna, never questioned her, always yielded his support for her adventures and who she wanted to be. Interesting how Jon's status as a prince and Alanna's first love will make young fans skim over and ignore his actions and the asinine things he says to her in book three. Jon is an a$s. They are clearly incompatible. Let go of your old fairytale notions, seek your own independence and a companion who will help you along that journey.

Watch out this book absolutely refuses to be left alone! and I was enthralled by the way it did so. Once you are consumed by its' many events and interesting characters...Mithros help you!!!It takes you to beautiful places with kings and queens, and all kinds of warming thoughts it conveys. I hadn't read any T.P. books before this one and after I did it, violently, pushed me to the remaining three. Oh no, I couldn't stop there, not after all it gave me to endure! I promise that those amoung you who are more passionate towards life, will be suckt into this one as I have been. "Everybody dies. Not everybody really lives." Alanna has a most intriguing life (I recommend this book for females who, themselves, want to be a warrior.)

WOW! I mean really! First of all I'd like to say that this is probably the best series of all time. I love the Alanna's. Tamora Pierce creates the perfect combination of romance, comedy, fantasy and girl power in the series. The characters are believable, likeable and you can feel their emotions, as if they're real and you know them. The whole series is great, but this is my favorite book. Alanna still struggles with trying to prove herself worthy of being a knight, but she gets her glory in the end! It has the return of all the old and familiar characters and the debut of some new ones. Although I didn't like that Alanna just kinda blew off George to go romance with Liam. (...) I was extremely happy how Tamora Pierce ended the series after the some-what letdown of The Woman Who Rides Like A Man. A GREAT READ!

This book was the conclusion to the Alanna series.
Alanna is a knight and is off to seek the precious Dominion Jewel so she can help her Prince. On her trip she meets the Shang Dragon. She takes lessons from him which later help win a small war. On her way back to Tortall she encounters a beautiful (most beautiful in world) Princess who is now an Exile and thinking she would be a better Queen to Jon than she would(she and Jon had been lovers and he had popped the question)she brings her and her guard to the palace, she also encounters her old friend Sir Roul who was sent to get Alanna. When she reaches the palace she finds her twin brother Lord Thom and Duke Roger(she had killed Roger in the second book)........

Ok here's the deal i've read two out of three of the series so far, I skimmed ahead to the third book and I saw how jon was acting. Either the people here say Jon and Alanna were meant to be or George and Alanna were meant to be, or Liam and Alanna. I just wish she'd have one tie with someone instead of three altogether! I thought Jon was pretty cool, I wish he didn't have to go so out of character to be mean to Alanna in The Woman who Rides like a Man, let's face it I have been dreaming ever since the first book that ALanna and JOn would get together, and then they did and broke up over a stupid fight!!! I wish Tamora would've just either left out the romance part between Alanna and Jon because it was really sad on my behalf because I really feel for the characters. But I guess George and Alanna were a better pair because she would have to be a softy in order to be queen. I JUST WISH SHE HADN'T HAD THIS AFFAIR WITH LIAM, OR HAVE THAT LOVe wITH JON. Well i hope this book is good, and that jon and alanna become friends again, and that jon isn't a jerk like in number three.

Although never able to match up to the brilliance of In the Hand of The Goddess (well it would be impossible, wouldn't it?), this book rounded up the series really well. I particulary liked Buri, and we got to know more about minor characters like Eleni. The return of Ralon was good too. And I liked the idea of Liam too. I've read other reviews where people say it was a wrong idea to put in this relationship, but Alanna was pretty confused, and showing this affair and its difficulties was one way of showing the other side of the heroine. And anyway, no-one complains about all Jon's women! (at least three)! Anyway, read this book, it is fabulous, but if you've read the first three, you'll be so addicted, you'll have to read this anyway!

Alanna having left the palace and having stayed with the tribe The Bloody Hawk does not know what to do next. She's the only female knight in Tortall and is stuck so she goes out looking for adventure with her loyal friend Coram. She ends up finding a map that is supposed to lead to a precious item called the Dominian Jewel.

"I'm not sure I want to be a hero anymore." (That'll go up in smoke).

She travels to a land to find the jewel and runs into Travelers named Thayet and her guard Buri. These two decide to travel along but little do they know that they will play a large part near the end of the story.

Oh and did I forget to tell you that Duke Roger is back? That he's come up from the dead? Read 'Lioness Rampant'!

This is the last book of the Lioness Quartet. I just saw it in a bookstore and I liked the cover. After I read it, I bought all the other books straightaway. It was so interesting. The most interesting thing about this book is Alanna. The character is not one of those perfect, encharming and weak little princesses. She's a warrior maiden, and warrior maidens - I believe - don't marry perfect, encharming and handsome princes. Look at how Jon behaved; although Alanna, too, was a bit rude. Jon would've been like a cage for Alanna if they married. Besides, Thayet was appropriate for Jon. Anyway, I'm glad Alanna married George - I'd been indignant with her sleeps with Jon from the start. George had been always understanding. I can't wait to read Trickster's Choice.
Hmm..talked too much about marriage. Duke Roger comes back from the dead - by guess who? Alanna's twin bro, Thom. The ending is kind of sad because Thom, Liam and Faithful dies. I especially disliked the part when Faithful died. There are always other books, why couldn't he come out in those? Oh well, Faithful died gallantly, all right.
Any lover of fantasy would love this book. I recommend the entire series.

I remember staying up until 6:30 AM reading this, I was that glued to the pages, and let me tell you, it is page after page of drama and rich characterization. Old favorites return and old troubles resurface. Alanna is put to the final crucible one more time, testing her physically, mentally, and spiritually, where she will rise as a legend or die trying to save her beloved kingdom. Tamora Pierce is a master of story telling and weaves the story like it was from a spindle. New wonders are uncovered and the characters rediscover themselves. The plot moves along marvelously, and I can tell you that my heart was beating all the way to the very last page. This has to be one of the best novels that I ever have read and ever will read.

Book 4 in the Song of the Lioness series (and the final book where Alanna is the main character but read on for TP's other books where she still plays a part!)
Alanna is now a recognised knight and looking for adventure. She ventures after a prize and in her travels finds romance, some excellent friendships and her own desires. The book explores new parts of the TP universe but brings us home to Tortall and the court to a satisfactory conclusion.
An excellent 4th book which furthers the exploration of Alanna finding herself and her hopes for the future.
After finishing these four books, readers should next progress to the Immortals series where they will further encounter Alanna, Jonathan and George as minor characters.

I truely enjoyed the other books the Lioness series and they remain my favorite series. I especially loved the first two books. Whereas 'Woman Who Rides Like A Man' irked me, 'Lioness Rampant' really tore my hopes down and I was horribly disappointed. I respect the other readers who enjoyed the ENTIRE quartet, but I must say that it was not the book for me. The characters seemed to lose their 'edge' and became too single-minded. The first two books were a perfect blend of love and war. However, the third book was almost entirely about love and the fourth book was almsot entirely about war. I bear no grudge against Tamora Pierce and I believe that she wove the stories with wonderful imagination and care, but I wish I hadn't read the last two.

i simply could not wait 2 get my hands on this book. i won't even b 12 till august, but i have yet 2 c a book i haven't liked.

anyway, in this book, alanna's evil enemy, roger, is back from the dead, thanks to her own brother thom. alanna is kind of tired of being a well-known heroine-"i don't know if i want 2 b a hero anymore." she decides 2 go 2 the roof of the world and find the dominion jewel and bring it 2 king jonathan, who she recently broke up with. with her new friends liam the shang dragon, thayet the future queen and her tough bodyguard buri, alanna sets off on what i think is so far my favorite adventure.

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.

I agree that there is no reason to complain about any of Tamora Pierces books. If there is one thing that you don't agree with think of the impact on the others. If Alanna had married Jon there would be no Trickster's Choice.
It is a definite ending to the Song of the Lioness quartet. I don't mean the story is over; it can never be over. I would say it is necessary to read them in order and it includes the climax of the series. All Tamora Peirce books are great and you can probably tell once you read one, you read the rest. The only problem with that is the next one doesn't come out until October 2004.

I loved this book! In fact, I like all of Tamora Pierce's books. I liked the idea of the Dominion Jewel, but the relationship between the Shang Dragon and Alanna could have been left out. If you like science-fiction and fantasy, this is the book for you! Alanna has so much courage! She does amazing things that I never could have done. Other than her many relationships, Alanna is my role model! I don't usually like science-fiction and fantasy, so these books suprised me! These books are awesome! Keep up the good work, Tamora Peirce!

I don't mean to be the only reader that gave this book 4 stars, but in my opinion, it didn't have it all. I started losing intrest in the quartet after about book 3. Book 1 and 2 left me hanging for more, but I kind of lost interest in 3, and 4 wasn't what I thought. It was good, but Alanna and Prince Johnothan make a better couple, and not that George is a good guy, but you know, the Prince kinda grows on you. All in all, I think that this quartet is Tamora's worst, but her worst isn't bad! I like the Immortals and Circle of Magic the best.

I absolutely LOVE the Song of the Lioness Quartet, they are great books for anyone over the age of 10 for the romance contained in the last three novels of the series (In the Hand of the Goddess, Woman who Rides like A Man, and Lioness Rampant *especially the last 2*) It is essential that you read the three books before this one.
This book is the longest in the series, but for a good reason. It is action packed, and you can't put it down. It also has so romance and mush suspense. I recommend this book, and all of her Tamora Pierce's books, for girls, although boys could enjoy them as well. I even know a few adults who have read thses, adn love them, so don't ever think that you are too old.
In Lioness rampant you find out what happens with Thom, George, Jon, Raoul, Thayet, Alanna (duh!), and some new characters that you will quickly grow to love. It is very hard to describe this book without giving away major secrets, that should be found out when reding, but I will try my best. Alanna and Coram are traveling when they meet a man with red hair in a pub named Liam. Little does Alanna know, he is the famed Shang Dragon! The three of them embark on a journey to the Roof of the World to retrieve the Dominion Jewel. When they take it back to Tortall, Alanna has to get over what happened between her adn Jon in the desert in order to help him and his country. George (always my FAVORITE character) helps her and together they discover many hidden secrets, and eventually beat the bad guy, with the help of Gary, Raoul adn The King's Own, Thayet, the Shang Dragon, and a few others.
Once you finish this one you must go and read the next series (The Immortals) to find out about a new character with a different kind of magic. You de meet all the characters from the last series, and catch up on their news. I would recommend any book by Tamora Pierce as a good read for anyone.

Warning - spoilers ahead!!!!!
I'm sure I'm in the minority but this book was my least favorite of the four. Too many things didn't make sense to me. Why did Alanna's brother bring Roger back from the dead? I know he was arrogant but I find it hard to believe he was that stupid. And Alanna is hardly upset at all! And the old king forgives Roger everything?! After almost killing his beloved wife?! I found that whole plot line frustrating and unbelievable. I also couldn't understand how Alanna could just go riding off when George was having problems with the Claw. Why doesn't she stand by him when he's in such danger? And why doesn't george just "take care of" the Claw - he's a thief for goodness sake and I'm sure he's had to "take care of" many other thieves because of his position. And it doesn't make sense to me that George is more honorable than Alanna, Jon, and the Dragon put together but he is the king of thieves. What's up with that?! His mother is a very good person - how did George end up as a thief? I think the thing that bothered me most was that Alanna rides away from George and Jon and their very serious troubles and never gives it a second thought. What kind of friend/lover is she? She meets up with Liam, is attracted to him, and within a week they are sleeping together. I know she hasn't made any committment to George but it still seems pretty sleazy to me. I would have been much more comfortable with this if George and Alanna had talked about how Alanna wasn't ready for a committment and they should see other people for a while and blah, blah, blah. But George and Alanna left everything very open ended and it seemed to me that Alanna betrayed George with Liam. It bothered me the none of this was ever acknowledged in the book and Alanna NEVER thought anything about how George might feel. Unfortunately, I really lost a lot of respect for Alanna and some for George for putting up with it. Finally, I always loved Faithful and yet we NEVER learn anything about who he really is. Maybe we will learn in another series but I really felt Ms. Pierce should have given the explanation in this book. All in all I was frustrated.

This Final Book signals the end of the Song of the Lioness Trilogy quite appropriately. Alanna completes her task the gods have sent her on and she finally finds the love and peace she looked for in all her lovers. A great climax to a great series with all the emotional punch for a grand finale. I'm impressed with Pierce's range of character development and emotional depth. What a great series for young adults! I love this series more each time I read it.

I've read every single book by Tamora Pierce since I was in 6th grade, and I still read and reread her books now, at age 20... She is by far one of my favorite authors, and I have read a LOT of fantasy books... I definitely suggest that you read the first three books before reading this one, but it's definitely a great book by itself... Sure, it's sad, and I cried a lot near the end, but while I like "happy endings" the best, I think somewhat sad endings are good, too, because it gives variety and character to the story... Also, it explains some of the changes in the characters in later books... This goes for most books with "sad endings"...

I just have to point out that most of the people who think George is "too old" for Alanna believe that he's 40 to her 20, when infact he was 17 when she was 11, so that would only make him 26... I don't consider that old... Then again, I have a sister who IS married to someone who is 17/18 years older then her, and I don't have a problem with it... Why? Because the truly love and understand eachother... And to all those who think that "Jon and Alanna sooo belonged together", consider this... George was the first one to know she was a girl... George was the first one to greet her when she first entered the city... George was the FIRST one to show ANY attraction to her... Jon only showed any attraction for her AFTER he had seen her in a dress... It was sort of obvious who was going to end up with her, at least it was for me... It's just one of the many annoyances I've heard from fellow "Tamora Pierce fans"... Alanna is with George, period... If you don't like it, then tough... It's a fact that should just be lived with... And it certainly isn't something to cry over...

Nothing can every surpass the beauty and exuberence the Tamora Peirce writes with. Her words at parts can caress the charcters, make you feel as one with them, at other parts, utterly HATE the enemy, fear for Alanna, hope for Tortall. There is no other equal to the Lioness Quartet. Although I read this book many, many, many times over, the last time I read it was around 6th grade. But still, the books touch me. Even from the distance I see them at now, they still have an impact on me. One would think that by now I would be over such books. They are wrong. It may have been four years, but the plots have touched my heart, and I carry them with me always. Many would ask, "Well, if it's such a great book, why is it not as popular?" If you are looking for something everyone knows and is a popular, decently written book, look at Harry Potter. But if you want a through and throuhg wonderful novel, any one of the Lioness Quartet should be picked up. Better start with the first one, though.
I loved this book for many reasons. First, I could relate to Alanna in some ways. Also, she was trying to become a woman knight, and I admired her for trying to be what other people said she couldn't be. Not only that, but she succeded. What Alanna went through to acheiev her dream was amazing. But she came out on top, right where she belongs. To understand what I'm saying, read all the books for the Lioness Rampant Quartet, trust me, you won't regret it.

I originally bought this series for my nine year old daughter, and read it first for myself. While I LOVED the books (couldn't put them down) the hopping from one lover to the next (albeit tastefully and thoughtfully done) was not something I want my nine year old to admire. I would have enjoyed the series just as much if Alanna had had non-sexual relationships with the men in her life, and look forward to giving these books to my daughter when she is a bit older.

LIONESS RAMPANT is, in my opinion, one of the best books in the series.
In a nutshell: Alanna goes to the Roof of the World to get the Dominion Jewel. She nearly freezes to death before she succeeds. In the meantime, Roger is back and nastier than ever. Somehow he's killing Thom, and Alanna is convinced that he's got soemthing up his sleeve.
Meanwhile, Jon's life is in danger from some old villians, including (gasp!) Delia, who was always in leauge with a certain someone...
And George has to face Claw, a notories rebel theif who wants to become Rogue but doesn't play fair. Jon also attempts to make George "respectable" and almost suceeds.
George still loves Alanna, but now she's off roaming with a Shang Dragon and George doesn't know what she feels about him.
The climax is at Jon's cornation as King, when old evil comes to wreak new havoc...
Can Alanna defeat her oldest and greatest enemy?
And will she ever own up to her true feelings for a certain Rogue?

This final book to the Song of the Lioness quartet by Tamora Pierce combined my two favorite things to read about- action and romance. This book crafted the two together to tell the story wonderfully.

The heroine of the book is Alanna of Trebond and Olau, also known as the Lioness, is a lady knight for the kingdom of Tortall. Her character is unusually interesting and a major part of why I love this book and the series so much.

Alanna had always been a catch, and she's even been part of a love triangle. In the earlier three books, two men fell in love with her during the same time: George Cooper, a thief with a good heart, and Prince Jonathan of Tortall. She ends up with Prince Jonathan but then breaks up with him after they had a fight about marriage. George always had a thing for her, though, so she tries him out. So in this book, Liam Ironarm, the Shang Dragon, takes interest in the Lioness. He says, "She's a pretty thing- different, and full of fight." All three men were probably attracted to her because of those unique qualities that other women in that time didn't have.

However, the action is still the main element in the book. It all begins when Alanna shows a map in Old Ones' writing to a translator and learns about the Dominion Jewel. It is located in the Roof of the World, a faraway place in the end of the world and only a myth. It is known for saving lands from destruction. Tortall is in immense danger because of Duke Roger, who has come back from the dead and is set on taking the throne. He has magical powers, but so does Alanna. Although she does not know that at the time, she decides to get the jewel for the "glory of Tortall" and to prove that she won her shield because of her physical and mental skills and not her magic. So, she sets off and won't let anyone or anything stop her. This reflects her character and causes the reader to expect a thrilling adventure.

The ending is full of action and suspense. The story isn't over just because she got the Dominion Jewel, for things are just beginning. She has a lot to face at home, especially Duke Roger and Prince Jonathan, who is now king of a troubled land. But now he's got Alanna and the jewel, so he has hope. It takes a lot of fighting and devastation for Tortall to be in peace. Alanna does end up with someone, but it may or may not be the person people were expecting. I thought she ended up with the right man for her needs. Alanna is definitely not a housewife kind of girl, and proves that time and time again. I could see why she is called the Lioness. I love it when books have action and romance in it because if they are mixed right it is an amazing combination. Tamora Pierce's Song of the Lioness quartet fits that description and Lioness Rampant is now my favorite book.

This book was awesome!!! In my opinion, all of her books are the greatest. I read them over and over again. I must have read each book in the series at leat ten times. All three series are the best books I have ever read, and always will be. I hope she writes other books as good as this. It showed action, romance, and suspense. You never knew what was going to happen next. I recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy books.

I love all the lioness books!! This wasn't the best book in the series, but I did like who she ended up with though I wouldn't have liked a few people not to die. (I'm trying not to spoil the book here) The story line was good and the writing and romance too. Overall the book was great. (I read a couple hundred books a year so I should know.) If you are going to read this series, read it in order. It's much better that way.

This book was great. You should not read it if you have not read the other books. The end is sad with the deaths of Thom, Liam, and Faithful. Alanna's adventure on getting the Dominion Jewel was cool. It is so odd how Alex was a friend in the first book, but turned to the Evil Duke Roger's side. I'm glad that none of the Characters from the other books didn't die. I reccomend this book to anyone who likes/loves adventures.

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!

This review is more for the entire "Lioness Quartet" quadrilogy, rather than this final installment in the series.

I was introduced to this series as a young girl of 11 or 12. They remained my favorite books for over a decade. The Lioness Quartet combines both magical, imaginative story telling with a strong feminist message. Equality is a powerful underlying theme in this series.

When I worked in a book store at the age of 20, I'd steer all mothers of adolescent girls in Tamora Pierce's direction. When I became a teacher, this series appeared on my recommended reading list. Now I have friends with daughters, and I put this series in their hands when I can.

I honestly believe that this series is essential in self esteem development of young women. I know it helped me.

This novel was fantastic. I started reading the series in 6th grade and finished all four books in a month. This last entry in the saga was by far the best, but all four books remain my favorite. My copies of these books have been read so often that the overs are bent, torn, and water damaged, and I think if you read these books, it won't be long before yours are too.
These novels thouch topics that are near and dear to my heart, such as girl-power, believing in yourself, love, trust, friendships, and hard work. You grow with Alanna as she learns that she must work twice as hard as the boys to accomplish the same thing, and as she learns how to love.
There is never a dull moment in this series, and I find this last novel to be the best. Alanna is finally coming of age with herself and her accomplishments, and there is a lot of romance in this book. She once again must save Tortall from past defeated enemies that unfortunately
arise again. This book ends the series spectacularly, but when I got to the last page, I almost cried, because I didn't want the magic Pierce created to end. This could be the best thing you do for yourself, because your Lioness rampant and other Alanna books (like they did with me) will become a close friend.

This was a mediocre finish to the series, not only was the book very easy but the plot lines were tired and had many similarities to the books before. All the same it was still very readable, fast paced and a satisfying finish to the quartet.

Out of the Song of the Lioness Quatret, I believe that Lioness Rampant may be the best. It may even be the best out of all of Tamora Pierce's stories! I just wish we could have gotten to know Liam a bit better...
I really liked some of the newer characters in this story, and I am extremelly happy with who Alana decides to settle down with... It's kinda cute, don't you think?

This is a very good book. Probably the best out of the series. It took me two days to read it. I didn't want to set it down! In my mind its as good as The Lord Of The Rings. You've got the magic sword, the Dominion Jewel, romance, even fights! Oh yeah the best of all MAGIC! This book is perfect for girls with big imaganations, like me! The book is the best! Read it! P.S. you'll like the cat!

Okay, this is a wonderful conclusion to an incredible series. Roger is the perfect villain - he has some human qualities. He has good things abut him - likable, suave, charming, as well as being evil. I loved the thing between Myles and Eleni Cooper, and that the Ralon of Malven end was tied up. Brilliant! Okay, here's the one thing - Alanna and Jon belong together! In the original draft of the book, Alanna and Jon did marry, but then TP changed it, though God knows why. Anyway, what about the fact that Thayet wanted to be a commoner and start a school? what about the fact that Alanna and George's parent's are getting together? What about the fact that the Woman Who Rides Like a Man and the Voice of the Tribes getting together would bring lots of attention to the tribe that has female shamans? What about the fact that nobody, but nobody, would be able to stop Kel from being a knight if Alanna were queen? I could go on. For all you Little Women fans out there, I could cite Jo and Laurie...

I read this book back in 6th grade and loved it!! In fact I've read all of the Tamora Pierce books that have been published thus far. I highly recommend them all. But my personal favorite would definitely have to be the Song of the Lioness quartet. The books are filled with mystery, adventure, magic, friendships, and love. My favorite series happens to be the Song of the Lioness because Alanna is such an amazing, but believable character. She works hard for her goals and won't let anything in her way. Through her, the reader experiences learning new things, the trials and errors of friendships, the meaning of trust, and following your instinct. The series do a wonderous job of keeping you on your feet and has an intriguing plot. I would say the best books are the second (In the hands of the Goddess) and the final (Lioness Rampant)book in the series. No matter what, this book is definitely worth reading, everyone I know, who has read it agrees that it is a wonderful book!!

This is the fourth book in the Song of the Lioness quartet. Alanna was born a nobleman's daughter, but she desperately wanted to be a knight. Her brother, Thom wanted to be a great sorcerer. So they switched places, Thom, going to the convent and Alanna going to the palace. In the second book she gets knighted and Thom gives her a shield with a rearing lioness, explaining that it represented a Lioness Rampant. So from then on everybody called her The Lioness. In this book Alanna and Coram (her man-at-arms) go on a journey to find the dominion jewel. The dominion jewel is a powerful gem that is magical. Meanwhile, back at the palace Lady Delia says that Thom can't bring Roger, the Duke of Conte and Alanna's arch enemy, back to life. So, of course, Thom does. Alexander of Tirragen plots with Roger to destroy the palace. Will Alanna get there in time to stop the powerful Duke, or will it be too late? If you read this book you will find out!!! I give this book two thumbs up!!!!

I must say out of the four this one is my absolute fav. But i must worn you all yet again Alanna has another man if not but for a short while. Liam Ironarm...the Shang Dragon. Tee hee* god i loved him he was hott. LOL but his nickname for Alanna was the best her called her Kitten! But one of my favorite parts was the Return of Raoul! God bless him. That was so cute. I also loved the end when she once again kills Roger. But go to kill Alex too. after the numerous times her attempted to kill her i was like finally! Alanna was so good at the end. I loved how her and george are finally gonna get hitched. oh and Jon and Thayet tee hee* we all knew that was gonna happen the moment Alanna said they could come with them to Tortall. But for all that its worth Myles was here and there and not in the book as much as her should have. Wait till yall read Keladry's books Raoul gets himself a girlfriend and wait till you see who it is! Congrats Tamora for a wonderful book..infact on all of your Heroines! Alanna,Keladry, Daine ,Aly!!!!!

WOW!!! What a great book. Lioness Rampant is now my new favorite book in the Song of the Lioness Quartet. You really have to read the other three books to understand whats going on with Alanna and her friends. Remember Ralon of Malon, well he comes back. I thought it was very interesting to see how Pierce has weaved him back into the story. Alanna also goes to some new places like the roof of the world. She also meets some new friends like Thayet, Buri, and the Shang Dragon. I wish there were more books about Alanna and her adventures, but there are not. I can only guess what will happen to her next. I just couldn't stop reading this book.

I finished the series on a plane from Florida. I was enchanted while I read, entranced even for a while after. But when the spell wore off, I realized that while the plot is good, the characters are flat and underdeveloped, and the stories are without any deeper significance. It's a good, light, superficial read but will not really leave any impressions on the soul. In Tortall, things float in and out without leaving traces (like some of Alanna's thief friends, Gary, and Raoul), and some of the things that are most important in the first novels (the Ordeal) don't really matter in the others. Alanna really doesn't think too much about the Ordeal after it's over. The series is good, but not great. Fine for younger readers, OK for older ones too, but make sure that there are REAL fantasy stories available too. I recommend it but will also say that Sabriel (Garth Nix) is much better and is fully rounded, with a four-dimensional world like our own.

I loved all of the Song of the Lioness books but I hated this one. It was a great book but it made me cry. If you want to read this I suggest you read the other books in the series first if you haven't all ready. I just don't like the way everything ended. (Why did the Series have to end too. Ms. Pierce, if you ever decide you want to write another book about Alanna and what happens next, PLEASE do!)

Ok, I have one thing to say to all you people out there. So what if she didn't marry Jon. The guy was a stuck up, snotty prig, just like all the other men in this world. George was always WAY cooler! I mean the guy was a thief, how cool can you get? So just get over the fact that she likes the thief better than Jon. I mean you could totally see that coming!

This book is part of a wonderful series. For any pre-teen or teenage girl this is a book you need to read. Alanna is a great role model for girls, and one of the few female protaganists in YA fantasy. If you are looking for a series that you will cherish for a long time or simply a good book, read this series.

This book was the perfect way to end this series. I was glued from the first page to the last. I love this book and hope either an extention to it comes out or Tammy writes some on Alannas' daughter, Alianne, [I've heard rumors!}A wonderful book, perhaps the best in the series, and last [weep] in this unexplainably wonderful quartet.

This book was a trademark item and I think that any one who loves to read will notice how every single problem is resolved in the end. Ms. Pierce can tie everything together like it really happened. The theif, George, finally gets what he wants and so does Alanna. From start to finish this book is a page turner! :)

This book is the heart-wrenchingly wonderful conclusion to a heart-wrenchingly wonderful saga. DON'T READ IT UNLESS YOU'VE READ THE OTHERS!
A basic summary:
Alanna, Lady Knight of Tortall has grown restless in her peaceful life with the Bazhir tribes. She follows a map to the Roof of the World to search for a treasure thaat will bring glory to herself and, more importantly to Tortall. Along the way she gains unexpected companions. But when at last she returns to Corus, she is happily reunited with old friends. Still, her enjoyment is short-lived when she realizes horrible truths about her twin and discovers that her worst enemy is back. This book concludes Alanna's story with a finish that will mark her as one of the greatest heroines of all time.

This book rocks! It's awesome and highly exciting. I loved it although I found it sad Faithful, Liam, and Thom die! Plus Roger and Josiane but I was REALLY sad about them. I loved everything about this book I don't know where Tamora gets these ideas but they are WONDERFUL! I have read them all like five times each, if not more. and I am glad she picked George I htought that was wonderful Jon put on way to much pressure I'm glad that he found Thayet I'm glad George and Alanna got together I knew they belonged together when they saw each other in the market that first day she became a page. It was a wonderful book and it tied up all the loose endings. It's almost perfect the reason it's not is because nothing can ever be perfect but this comes pretty darn close.

I havn`t read this book but i just had to write my feelings after reading other reviews. I can`t understad that anyone would hate any of the book t p wrote i just can`t. I was in the bookstore when I saw the 1 book in this seriers and I bought it. I didn`t know anything about the Lioness but i had read the books on kel. I totally fell in love with the book and I went back to the bookstrore to get the other though I didn`t get the last one but I will. If you haven`t read any of these books you must. There are a thrillier combiend with frendship, enemiess,romance and magic. I you love Fantacy or ever wanted to read a book about Knights though you wanted a girl as the Knight you must read. It a book that proves girl have the power! read the series you wont reget it.

I enjoyed the first two books in this series. I really got caught up in the high adventure of the heroine in the story. The last two books were much darker--as far as the complexity of the relationships. I love young adult books, but this last entry in the series especially depressed me. I don't have any children, but I'm sure I wouldn't be comfortable with my child reading this material. The adult themes are not appropriate for children under 13 (according to how a movie might be scored).

Aside from the romantic theme, the storyline itself was depressing with this entry. I think I was more discouraged by the character of Jonathan than any other. I don't profess to understand power or political machinations, but he would not have proven a worthy leader to follow for me. I understand the obedience and loyalty due him. However knowing him as intimately as Alanna knew him, I didn't understand how their friendship survived the turmoils of the kingdom--much less the turmoils of their love affair. I could look at him as being either a petty lover, or a man so taken with the responsibilities of his kingdom, that the heroine was only a secondary concern for him. Nothing came before the kingship, and that's okay--unless someone else was pushed to bow under the sense of responsibility as well. Maybe his character was too real for me. He wasn't a wholly good or wholly bad person. I just found him despicable in his own way.

My take on Jonathan was that he gladly used Alanna as the tool she wished to be used as. Contradicting myself? I don't think so. I never forgot that Alanna was younger than Jonathan. She couldn't know at the outset that to give herself to him as a woman would demand a greater price than to give herself as a warrior. He was her first lover. He had her devotion before securing her as his lover (reluctantly at that). That could have ended so ugly had Alanna not been disposed towards wandering and 'adventuring'.

Jonathan really disgusted me with his selfish use of Alanna. It wasn't bad enough he made her his lover, Alanna risked her life for a jewel to justify her knighthood. Not that her Knighthood was of major concern to her friend and ex-lover; Jonathan was more focused on the fact that the jewel would help him secure the kingdom.

Duke Roger killed others in his pursuit of the kingdom, but he was an honest villain. It was never his intention to kill anyone aside from the royals. (Note: You cannot use the fact that he killed as a factor for villainy--because George killed to achieve and maintain his hold over the Rogues). Roger wanted loyal subjects no less than Jonathan. In any other story, Jonathan would be a bad guy too. He happened to be friends with the one knight who just didn't like Roger. A flip of the coin could have easily had Alanna helping Roger attain the thrown.

I had to also read other books for the Summer Reading during my own time, and I borrowed this book from the library. I'm so glad that I started off by picking up the first book of the Song of the Lioness quartet (Alanna: The First Adventure). After I read the first book, I was hooked and read all the other 3 books in the quartet in 2 days. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!! You won't regret reading this. But please read the first book, Alanna: The First Adventure, because this book that I'm reviewing is the 4th book in the quartet. If you read this or any of the other books besides the 1st book first, then you won't understand them. But please just give it a try and buy/borrow this book.

This is the coolest book I've ever read. I'm into Fantasy and Knights, and this is about a girl who did, well, the unthinkably! I've never read much before this book, and I still dont read much, but I've read this book over twice and now I want to buy it! It's amazing!

As the conclusion of this series it was alright. The first two books were WAY better, and the third one was pretty good as well. As for this one, I found it just plain DUMB with all the ending stuff. ...This was not a great book, and was far surpassed by the first two (the third was better also).

When I think of all the books I've ever read and think of my favorites, this series is always at the top of the list. If I ever need a good adventure, I re-read Alanna's story. I've read the lioness books so many times the pages started falling out. So I bought the ebooks! I love Tamora Pierce and her world of Tortall. An all around good fantasy with just the right mix of adventure and romance.

This is wonderful book that ends with a little surprise and a lot of adventure. If you liked these books then you ought to continue on to the Immortals series. They are almost as good as these books and they continue the Lioness's story (but only as a supporting character)

This is the best book of the Song of the Lioness series Quartet in my opinion. It's by far the longest! I was in 5th grade when I first read it, and I usually re-read it every year. The story (make sure u've read the first 3 before this one): Alanna's the first female knight, and it's not gonna be easy. She meets Liam, the Shang dragon, on her quest for the Dominion Jewel. Her problems with Jon are cleared up, and her relationship with George is furthered. Unfortunately, the man she resented the most is back with a vengance, and he's so slimy and suspicious u just wanna kill him (again). But Alanna can survive, right? I hope this makes you want to read it. Trust me this book is worth it.

I think the whole Alanna series was great, but I do think that the first two books were the best. As great as this book was, I would have changed the ending a little bit (but I don't want to spoil the ending). Read the whole series! Thank me later.

I won't spoil the plot for you because many people before me already have. However, I have to say this isn't one of her better books (It seems to me that the last book of each quartet isn't as good as the others...).

A few of the twists are extremly predictable (Thom's experiments *hint* *hint*). There is still enough of the "Pierce Magic" in it to keep you from giving up half-way. Compared with may of the books out there, it is just above average, but by Tamora Pierce's standards, it fails to deliver that *oomph* (supstitute the oomph with, "power", "force", "meaning", etc) that I had adored in most of her other books (aka all by Lady Knight).

I think that this is the best book Tamara Pierce has written! It was great! I loved the adventure and the Romance in it. I strongly recomend this book and the first three. I also recomend the Immortals series. This is a Great book!

It could have been worse. After the wham-bam duo of ALANNA and IN THE HANDS OF THE GODDESS i don't think it could have been much better either. now that the whole jon thing is out of the way, ms. pierce felt the need to add in ANOTHER guy to confuse alanna...does 'monogamy' mean anything to her? not that i didn't think the karate guy was cool, i did. but come on! and i totally agree with one of the other reviews (scroll down a bit)...i had always pictured george as 40 too! what's that all about? i had to tape "George" over my poster of ethan hawke to get myself into the right mind frame! :) but it's good, just don't expect it to be as good as the first two!

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.

If you like magic and adventure, you'll love this book and the rest of the series. Warning!! If you read this book, you will enjoy it so much, you'll have to buy the entire series, "Alanna series, The Immortals series and Protector of the small series. Excellent author.

This is book wasn't as good as some of the others (but not The Woman Who Rides Like A Man, that wasn't so good) but it doesn't deserve 4 stars. This book ...I personally feel that Gary was the coolest character and perfect for Alanna, but oh well. A must read book.

I was rather depressed after reading this story. I can't believe that TP wrote this book. I kept hoping that stupid female would wake up and go back to her first love. I thoughtthe book might get better at the end but it didn't. I wish I had never read it.

Alanna was meant to be with Geogre not Jon. it is shown from the beginning of the series. she was never going to be a leader. it was clear. she needed someone to follow in the end. she wants to explore but as a queen it would drag her down.

Geogre is there as a friend and slowly progresses. Geogre would be the only one to deal with her temper as Jon would run of - look at 'Woman who rides like a man'.

AS A TEENAGER i personally feel (as well as a school survy - Lily) that the marriage between Alanna and Geogre was great and unexpecting. Alanna has been his love for yrs and finally they have come together. as us teens get emotionally attached to a charactor i feel that Ms Pierce as ended the series extremely well and i hope to see the loving couple pop up somewhere else.

I liked the first book in this series. I found the idea of a female knight very entertaining. But by the fourth book I was downright disgusted! Not only did Alanna get over her fear of love, but she slept with three guys! There is a word for that today and the only thing preventing me from saying it is because the store probably considers it profanity. Great idea, but it sizzled out after the first book.

I loved the last verse to Song of the Lioness! Alanna follows the map given to her in the previous book and sets out to looks for the Dominion Jewel (a magical, powerful gem) for the glory of Tortall. On the way, she meets a really cute Shang Dragon (I'm not going to spoil anything - sorry)... This book ends with some tragedy (sniffle, sniffle) but still follows the outline that good always wins against evil. Lioness Rampant had a bittersweet ending but was still a great hit. And Alanna marries ******. (I'm not telling - read the book and find out!)

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.

Tamora Pierce is so often hailed for her use of strong female characters that I simply had to check this one out. I was greatly disapointed. Tamora Pierce needs to learn that character strength and perfection are not one in the same. How is Alanna, beautiful, talented, and nearly flawless, serve as a good role model for young women? She is simply not a realistic character. Yes she can ride and fight and perform magic better than most men, while at the same time being very beautiful, clever, and likeable. However, her dependance on men throughout the quartet is not a good model for girls to follow, and her inaccessability as a character makes it hard for girls to relate to her. Readers in search of strong female characters will find that strength is found not in beauty, perfection, and a volatile temper but in the realistic characters found in books written by Terry Pratchett, or even JK Rowling, a writer often criticized (even by Pierce herself) for neglecting female characters. Rowling and Pratchett's strong females are in women who are far from perfect in the eyes of society, and yet are able to think clearly and bravely in a crisis. Perhaps Hermione, for example, is not stunningly beautiful and can shoot a bow better than any man, but her independance, strength, and intelligence are better role-models for girls than the unrealistic and slightly promiscuous Alanna.

This book is for juveniles only. The perfect example was that of a previous reviewer, who's nine years old and said her and her friend understood the book. Oh really, so where does that leave us older readers? Looking and searching for more demanding and complicated books to read to challenge us, that's what.

These books are the greatest series I've ever read. After reading about Liam, Thom, and Faitful dying, I cried a lot in bed. After I came to this site, I was soooo happy to hear there were other Pierce lovers out there. in this book, Alanna finds some friends, unmasks some bad guys, has a little romance(and a lot of tragedy!)and finally gets married.(I'm not telling who ... !) It's an incredibly satisfying book, and I reccommend it for anybody older than 9. I've read all her books she's ever written, except the last three Veralidaine Saaraasri books.

This was the first series that my new friend ever recomended to me. I was skeptical at first but then I read the first chapter. Suddenly I was pulled into the world of Alanna. Finally my eyes stopped, frantic I searched for the next page of words. There were no more. I had reached the end of the first book. I sprinted into school the next day and begged my friend to bring in the second. This series was one of the best I ever read. I am really glad that the character's in these books appear in the Immortals series and Trickster's Choice and Trickster's Queen.

"Lioness Rampant" was the final book of the Alanna of Trebond quartet. I would not recommend this book to anyone because I thought that it was very frustrating and disappointing. The plot line in the beginning of this novel was wonderful, and there were many creative characters that seemed to come to life. Unfortunately, the ending ruined everything.
The entire plot line led up to one final scene at the end where the reader would expect Alanna to fight her ultimate enemy in a one on one battle. Instead the enemy is killed in an anticlimactic scene by his own stupidity, and Alanna loses three of her very close friends in battle. To top it all off, she doesn't marry the man that she had been best friends with since she was 11 and romantically involved with during her older years at the knight school, which I found particularly aggravating.
I am the kind of person who likes a happy ending because I believe that novels are read only for enjoyment, so if sad endings do not bother you, you would probably thoroughly enjoy this book.

Amazing! But the author should have gone on. Let's hope that she continues. YOU DON'T JUST SAY SOMEONE LIKES SOMEONE AND NOT CONTINUE!!!!??????????????????

I don't care that george was her first romance, she was not going to be queen. That would just be wrong. I loved the books over all. I espeshally like Allana's temper it makes he a real character while making the book even funnyier

Mmk, I got the first book in this series from a friend that had gotten it from the library (she hasn't read that book yet...) and I just have to say: TAMORA PIERCE IS THE BEST AUTHOR EVER~! I highly recommend that you read this book, if you're 5, 10, 15, 20, whatever! You will love it, just as I have. Right now I am finishing up In The Realm of the Gods, The Immortals Quartet, by Tamora Pierce; it is just as fantastic as the other books.
--Niomi

I think all the Alanna books are SO great... I've read that series, the Immortals and the Circle of Magic series SO many times. I've read every Alanna book at LEAST 6 or 7 times... Just be sure you read the Alanna books first, because some stuff won't make sense otherwise, and other stuff will be ruined about them. They're some of my favorite books, and anyone with any imagination would like them alot.

I think that the Alanna series is the best I have read yet. It had all I was looking for, and more. I would recomend this series to anyone! People that like this series, might also like Robin Mckinley, Patrica C. Wrede, and Anne McCaffery.

The moment I opened this book,I knew it was a good one. I turned to Tamora Pierce's books after reading the last of my favorite author's books. I would have to say that this is my favorite book I have ever read in my life. This book has a mix of everything a perfect book needs to have. Great job.

The 4th book is not suitable for 6-9th grades. I can see the appeal to 6-9 graders in the simplicity of the story. I am an adult that likes to read fantacy/magical fiction. My problem with this series is that the main character (Alanna) sleeps with the prince and 2 other guys in the fourth book.

I just loved this one!!! I am so glad that she chose who she did cause, nothing against the handsome prince or anything, but i always liked George better, he was the first one to admit his love to her. This book had adventure too and was fantastic!! If u loved the other books in this series, or if you haven't read them, i suggest u to read them all and u will read them over and over and over and over.

I loved it! This is one of Tamora Pierce's best works.
The plot has already been building up throughout the 3 books preceding it, but this is definitely the most thrilling.
All of the events keep you hooked on the book, from the journey to find the Dominion Jewel, to the very end of the book. Even though there is tradgedy at the end, it's definitly one of the best novels in the world!...

I think that this was the best book of the series. I especially loved the end. Alanna and George belong together. The whole book was great though. I just wish that it wasn't the end of the series. I loved Alanna and George and Jonathon and everyone else with the one exception of Roger. I wish Thom and Faithful didn't die. I think Jonathon and Thayet will rule their kingdom well together

I laughed I cried I cound not put this book down! Tamora Pierce has written one of the best books ever written.You will fall in love with some of the characters and belive in the ability to have magic inside of you.you will cry with joy and sadness when you read this final book from the Song of the Lionness.I recomend this book to anyone who belives there realy is life beyond reality.

I loved the other books but I'm really sorry but I hated this one. The way everything turned out was bad. I hate george sniffle I though Alanna was going to end up marrying Liam ( I Love Liam) I just dont like the way everything turned out but it was a good book!!! I cried so much in this one....it was like i was a charcter in the book it made me soo sad when "you-know-what" happened.

THis book was awesome! I loved the way it closed off the sieres with a final bow. I loved the way Tamora Pierce made it exciting, a real lady knoight ready for combat at all times. WOW any one who thinks this book was not 5 stars should reread it to think about your mistake. This book is a real work of art so RETHINK your mistake!

This was the best of the Alanna books, by far my favorite. I think it was great that Alanna ended up with George, but I was so sad that Faithful and Thom died! Thayet was a great new character, she and Buri were awsome. Also Duke Roger is killed again, what a releif. I think Alanna is a great role model for young girls and I want to be like her. This book is so cool!

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.

THis book was ok, out of all of them In the Hands of a Goddess was the one I enjoyed most, and if you, like me, are rooting for prince jonathan, that IS the best book. THis I enjoyed this book only because alanna was in it and I wanted to know what happened to her, other then that I didnt really enjoy it, so if you havent read the first couple, read them first, otherwise this one will not make any sense.

This had a very creative plot line, and was so well written. The girl really kicked butt. I love Tamora Pierce, and have read many of her books. I have this series in hard back, and can't wait for more to come out.

The series was amazing over all but the very ending of it with her settling down was very unrealistic she had said from the very beginning she wanted to have adventures so yes I didn't like the ending. The rest of the book was good/okay.

I first read this when I was quite young and have found the series an enjoyable (re)read throughout adulthood as well. Would encourage anyone fascinated with a good fantasy story to pick this one up.

Alanna does not belong with George, she belongs with some completely other character or Jon. Jon was her first love and i can't believe that all her love went away just because of one stupid fight they had in the desert.

Tamora Pierce had always been a...patchy author to me. I would first like to say that people should read the Trickster series, also by Tamora Pierce. It is far more intelligent than this one.

For one thing, the book was underdeveloped. The climax would last a few pages and was always sorely disappointing. Each development was not taken to its full extent. It seemed that Tamora Pierce was writing a simple outline of what she wanted her novel to be, and then sent it to her edit straightaway instead of actually writing. It was far too short, and very unsatisfying.

It often annoyed me that Alanna was not so much promiscuous, but perfect. She was magically talented, she was athletically talented, she had a lot of men interested in her, and she had violet eyes...anyone who reads Fanfiction knows that this is the trademark of a Mary-Sue, a blatant self-idealization of the author, or simply a badly-written character. The other characters were entertaining, but she was simply tiring. As a heroine, I disliked her very much.

This book, the last in this series, is Tamora's worst book. i read it and thought it was pretty good but then i read some of her others and they made this book look bad, but i would still read it since the rest of the series is really good.

I can't really say anything about this book except that I HATED HATED HATED it....I thought the writing was phenomenal, the characters exceptional, the plot fantastic. How can I hate it, you say? ALANNA MARRIED STUPID OLE GEORGE! She and the prince were MEANT for wach other. I cried...

I'm afraid this series ended horribly. If you love reading about moral characters who stick to doing what is right even though its hard...dont read this book.
I felt so cheated to discover my heroine was nothing more then a naive, and insecure sword fighter.
When I read the last few pages I was in shock. I mean, it felt like a gossip girl meets medieval times. It was that bad. The main chara hadn't DEVELOPED into anything any woman desires to be.
The view of love in this book is screwed and leaves a bad taste in my heart. An interesting storyline is nothing when the chara comes out not a better person, but a desperate one willing to sleep with whoever will have her. PLEASE, dont waste your time.