(3) 4-6 Protector of the Small series. To her dismay, Keladry's first assignment as a knight is to run a refugee camp. Not only would she rather be in the thick of battle, but she longs to be about the task an oracle has charged her with--finding and stopping a sadistic mage who uses the souls of children to craft killing machines. As in the previous volumes, Kel's compassion for those who have been victimized drives her actions. Fans will be pleased with this conclusion to her tale.

Reviewer: Anne St. John

(2) YA Protector of the Small series. In this third book, Kel accepts a position with Raoul, Knight Commander of the King's Own guard. The novel expertly juxtaposes outward action and introspection, as Kel matures in both her knightly skills and her personal outlook. Building on the previous books but not dependent upon them, the novel is the strongest yet in the series.

Reviewer: Anne St. John | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2001

(3) 4-6 Protector of the Small series. In this sequel to First Test, Keladry of Mindelan completes the final three years of training as a page at the royal palace. Her fear of heights, love of animals, and determination to prevent the older pages from hazing the first years remain the same, but she also faces new challenges as the only girl page. Although the book can stand alone, it will be most enjoyed by those who are already familiar with the tenacious Kel.

Reviewer: Anne St. John

(3) 4-6 Protector of the Small series. In this spinoff of the two previous series set in Tortall, ten-year-old Keladry must prove herself capable of succeeding as the first official female page in the rigorous training program at the castle. Determined to defend those weaker than herself, Kel befriends animals and battles bullies, as well as the monstrous spidren. Pierce has created a bold heroine ready to face new adventures.

Reviewer: Anne St. John