Cover of First Test
Cover of Page
Cover of Squire
Cover of Lady Knight
Series

Protector of the Small

4 books

The Protector of the Small series by Tamora Pierce has 4 books. Start with First Test (1999), then read the rest in the order below.

Protector of the Small reading order

1
Cover of First Test

First Test

Tamora Pierce

In a world where knighthood is a male-only domain, young Keladry of Mindalen dares to defy tradition. Determined to become a knight, she enters the royal training program as a page, facing prejudice and rigorous challenges at every turn. Kel must not only master the art of combat and strategy but also overcome the deeply ingrained biases of her peers and mentors. This is a story of courage, perseverance, and the fight to break down barriers in pursuit of one's dreams.

FantasyAdventure FictionComing of Age
2
Cover of Page

Page

Tamora Pierce

Keladry of Mindelan, the only female page in history to survive her first year of knightly training, faces escalating challenges in her quest to prove her worth. Despite her determination and the support of her friends, Kel must conquer her debilitating fear of heights and endure rigorous training. When a perilous situation arises, she is thrust into a leadership role, forcing her to rely on her courage and resourcefulness. As whispers of doubt and outright hostility from those who oppose her rise, Kel's resolve is tested like never before, pushing her to overcome not only external threats but also her own internal struggles.

FantasyAdventure FictionEpic Fantasy
3
Cover of Squire

Squire

Tamora Pierce

Keladry of Mindelan's dream of becoming a squire to the legendary knight Alanna the Lioness takes an unexpected turn when she is chosen by the renowned Lord Raoul. Thrust into the demanding world of the royal guard, Kel must rapidly hone her combat and leadership abilities while confronting her rivals and proving her worth. Amidst rigorous training and the blossoming of a new romance, she grapples with balancing personal relationships and her knightly duties. As Kel prepares for the daunting 'Ordeal,' the final trial before knighthood, she embodies themes of bravery, friendship, and compassion in this thrilling fantasy adventure.

FantasyAdventure FictionEpic Fantasy
4
Cover of Lady Knight

Lady Knight

Tamora Pierce

Keladry of Mindelan has finally achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a knight, but her path takes an unexpected turn as she's tasked with overseeing a refugee camp during a brutal war. While grappling with the challenges of caring for those displaced and stripped of their dignity, Kel must also confront the possibility that this humanitarian effort is as crucial as the ongoing conflict. When a vision reveals the mastermind behind the enemy's devastating weaponry, Kel faces a profound choice: uphold her sworn duty or embark on a perilous quest that could alter the course of the war. This thrilling conclusion to a beloved series explores themes of bravery, compassion, and the true meaning of heroism.

FantasyAdventure FictionEpic Fantasy