This book was surprisingly good :) It started out a little stiff. The pace picking up as I went. The world building was pretty solid; I love Daine, though I do tend to picture her differently from the cover model.

You know a book fits into high fantasy when it has a map at the front of it. Daine is thirteen, and alone. HEr and her horse, Cloud, are searching for their next home. Enter, Onua, A K'mir who instantly takes a liking to Daine.

I can't wait to see what they will get up to next. ( )

5

I did not care for the full cast reading of this book - it really had an impact on how much I did not like it. I wonder if I would like Tamora Pierce better if I just read the story -instead of listening to the constructed drama. ( )

What a delightful trip back to the world of Tortall. I had been hesitant to start this one as it felt strange to not have the story centered on our favorite Lionesses. I was elated to run into many familiar faces throughout this book.

Daine starts out just slightly older than Alanna was when we met her, although that is about the end of the similarities in backstory. The way the magic in this story was explained made it feel exciting and fresh while still acknowledging the magic we already knew of in the world. It did take a few chapters for me to feel connected to Daine, which was well worth the wait.

Excited to jump into the next book soon to see where Daine’s journey takes her. ( )

I liked this book, but it was not brilliant. The story is relatively simple, a bit childish I'd say, but entertaining. ( )