Squire

The Protector of the Small Quartet, Book 3

By: Tamora Pierce

Narrated by: Sarah Ovens

The adventure continues in book three of the New York Times bestselling series from the fantasy author who is a legend herself: Tamora Pierce.

A powerful classic that is more timely than ever, the Protector of the Small series is about smashing the ceilings others place above you..

Being the first is the last thing they expect of you.

Keladry of Mindelan dreams of becoming squire to the legendary female knight Alanna the Lioness, a hero straight out of story. But Kel is chosen instead by Lord Raoul, a leader of men and a strategist – an unexpected honour that shocks her enemies.

Kel must hone her skills and discover what it takes to be part of the royal guard. Part of a team.

With this change comes another: a new romance, bringing with it the rush of first love and the unexpected challenges of balancing duty and love.

All the while, Kel prepares for her biggest challenge: the infamous and terrifying Ordeal – the last challenge standing between her and knighthood.

In a landmark quartet published years before it’s time, Kel must prove herself twice as good as her male peers just to be thought equal. A series that touches on questions of courage, friendship, a humane perspective – told against a backdrop of a magical, action-packed fantasy adventure.

‘I take more comfort from and as great pleasure in Tamora Pierce’s Tortall novels as I do from Game of Thrones’ – Washington Post

©2019 Tamora Pierce (P)2019 HarperCollins Publishers Limited

Critic reviews

‘Tamora Pierce didn’t just blaze a trail. Her heroines cut a swath through the fantasy world with wit, strength, and savvy. Pierce is the real lioness, and we’re all just running to keep pace.’
LEIGH BARDUGO, #1 New York Times bestselling author

‘Tamora Pierce creates epic worlds populated by girls and women of bravery, heart, and strength. Her work inspired a generation of writers and continues to inspire us.’
HOLLY BLACK, #1 New York Times bestselling author

‘Tamora Pierce’s books shaped me not only as a young writer but also as a young woman. Her complex, unforgettable heroines and vibrant, intricate worlds blazed a trail for young
adult fantasy—and I get to write what I love today because of the path she forged throughout her career. She is a pillar, an icon, and an inspiration.’
SARAH J. MAAS, #1 New York Times bestselling author

‘I take more comfort from and as great a pleasure in Tamora Pierce's Tortall novels as I do from Game of Thrones.’
Washington Post