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.

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.

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.

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.

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.