This must-read fantasy from an author who is legend herself--Tamora Pierce--is one Bustle calls "the perfect book for die-hard Pierce fans and newcomers alike."
Discover the origin story of one of the realm's most powerful mages in the first book in the Numair Chronicles.
Arram Draper is on the path to becoming one of the realm's most powerful mages. The youngest student in his class at the Imperial University of Carthak, he has a Gift with unlimited potential for greatness--and for attracting trouble. At his side are his two best friends: Varice, a clever girl with an often-overlooked talent, and Ozorne, the "leftover prince" with secret ambitions. Together, these three friends forge a bond that will one day shape kingdoms. And as Ozorne gets closer to the throne and Varice gets closer to Arram's heart, Arram realizes that one day--soon--he will have to decide where his loyalties truly lie.
In the Numair Chronicles, readers will be rewarded with the never-before-told story of how Numair Salmalín came to Tortall. Newcomers will discover a YA fantasy where a kingdom's future rests on the shoulders of a talented young man with a knack for making vicious enemies.
BONUS! Don't miss Sarah J. Maas's interview with Tamora Pierce!
"Tamora Pierce is one of the queens of fantasy, and as a fan of the Immortals series most of all, I was happy to be reunited with the world of Tortall and literary crush Numair Salmalín." --The Mary Sue
First, I must confess my shame: I have never before read Tamora Pierce (that I remember). There. I've said it. Let the public flogging begin. However, I feel that this book is an excellent introduction, and certainly gives me the larger desire to read more. The three main characters were interesting, and (without spoilers), by the end it was possible to see that conflict may be coming. The instructors at their school have their own quirks and personalities, and I do hope that they are either in the second book, or at least make occasional appearances! Other than Chioke. HIM I could do without. The Gods are...like us. Capricious and pushy and sometimes even amusing. Also? Preet.
The story was entertaining and, in parts, very moving. There is a lot of discussion about slavery, and what it means in terms of the pain of those slaves (who were also gladiators, so....early and painful deaths), but also in terms of the government. There is also some discussion about sexism, and there is even an instructor who is married to another male. And yet, with all of this potentially heavy and story-killing themes, the story is lifted rather than drowned. Pierce truly is a master - and I look forward to not only the sequel, but to reading more of her works and atoning for my slacking.
