Squire

This third book of Pierce's quartet finds Keladry of Mindelan, now a tall 14-year-old, ready to begin her squire training. Chosen by the likable Lord Rauol, who promises her an exciting, if dangerous, life, she becomes a member of the King's Own and meets a variety of swashbuckling challenges that test her courage and loyalty. Bernadette Dunne has done an excellent job narrating this series. Once again, she expertly leads listeners into Pierce's carefully imagined, absorbing world, where she seems equally at home whether presenting Tortall's courtly conventions or Kel's budding sense of romance and its potential consequences. Dunne conveys all the strength, determination, and likability of Pierce's powerful young female warrior. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

April 1, 2008
Gr 7-9-In this third volume (Random, 2001) in Tamora Pierce's series about Keladry of Mindelan, Kel is chosen to be Lord Raoul's squire and must prove herself worthy. She fights prejudice against her gender and her own doubts and fears. During her years as a squire, she moves from a childish crush, through the first stirrings of adolescent sexuality, to being on the verge of sexual commitment and adult love. All her struggles may be for naught when she faces the "chamber of ordeal," the final test before knighthood, whose torments have proved fatal for other squires. Actress Bernadette Dunne reads the story with clarity and expression, creating mostly suitable voices for the characters. While there are a few misplaced emphases and occasionally a voicing of dialect carries over into the narration, for the most part the reading is strong and will certainly appeal to its audience. Overall, the technical quality is fine, but at times there is an excess of sibilance. This title contains many references to the previous books in the series and many plot lines left open for the final volume. Pierce's many fans will love this audiobook..Louise L. Sherman, formerly Anna C. Scott School, Leonia, NJ

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.