Cover of Magic Steps
Cover of Street Magic
Cover of Cold Fire
Cover of Shatterglass
Series

The Circle Opens

4 books

Here are 4 books from The Circle Opens series by Tamora Pierce. Start with Magic Steps (2001), then read the rest in the order below.

Books in order

1
Cover of Magic Steps

Magic Steps

Tamora Pierce

In this gripping magical mystery, a young mage and her gifted student are thrust into a perilous investigation when a powerful family in the coastal city of Summersea falls victim to a series of brutal murders. As Sandy and Pasco work to uncover the truth, they discover that the killers are invisible—hidden from sight by powerful magic that makes them nearly impossible to track. With danger closing in and the stakes mounting, the two must use their combined magical abilities and wits to devise a trap that will expose the invisible assassins before they claim more victims. Tamora Pierce masterfully weaves together mystery, magic, and suspense in this tale of courage and determination, exploring themes of justice, mentorship, and the lengths one will go to protect others. Magic Steps is a compelling addition to Pierce's richly imagined fantasy world, showcasing her signature blend of strong characters, intricate plotting, and magical intrigue.

FantasyMysteryAdventure Fiction
2
Cover of Street Magic

Street Magic

Tamora Pierce

In a world where magic is a dangerous and unpredictable force, a young mage named Briar Moss finds himself at a crossroads. Haunted by his own tumultuous past as a "street rat," Briar must confront the shadows of his former life when he encounters a gifted but untrained mage in desperate need of guidance. As he grapples with the responsibility of mentorship, Briar must navigate the treacherous path between his own unresolved issues and the potential of a new generation of magic users. This tale explores themes of redemption, the burden of the past, and the transformative power of finding one's true calling.

FantasyAdventure FictionComing of Age
2
Cover of Cold Fire

Cold Fire

Tamora Pierce

In the frozen north of Namorn, Daja finds herself mentoring the twin daughters of her host family, guiding them as they awaken their latent magical abilities. As she navigates this new role, a sinister threat emerges: a deadly arsonist whose fiery rampages endanger the land. Daja must harness her own unique powers, a blend of smithing and magic, to uncover the culprit's identity and stop the destruction before it consumes everything.

FantasyAdventure FictionYoung Adult Fiction
4
Cover of Shatterglass

Shatterglass

Tamora Pierce

In a world where magic is woven into the very fabric of life, a gifted glassmaker's world is irrevocably altered by a devastating accident. His once-precise craft is now infused with volatile lightning, a dangerous new magic that mirrors his own turbulent emotions. Tasked with guiding him, a determined mentor must not only teach him to control his volatile power but also his fiery temper. As they delve into the mysteries of his altered abilities, they uncover a chilling truth: his unique glass creations can reveal the immediate past, offering a glimpse into the actions of a hidden murderer. Together, they must race against time and suspicion to unmask a killer lurking in their midst before they strike again.

FantasyMysteryYoung Adult Fiction