Well being introduced to the characters in the Will of the Empress before reading this, some parts were very frustrating. But I really enjoyed the book. I couldn't put it down as I just wanted to keep knowing what happened. Brilliant. ( )

Wonderfully well-written! The writing style is what makes this book stand out among Pierce's multiple other novels. The multi-person perspective adds something new to her retinue of young adult literature and makes the book that much more amazing, the characters that much more endearing. ( )

I liked this book very much. Wit four characters it was easy to find some one to relate to. The whole series is great. Very adventurous and exciting. ( )

I love fantasy and this is a great fantasy novel. I can't wait to read Daja's book. I enjoy books about people coming into magic and not knowing what power they truly posess. ( )

Three young kids from different walks of life are brought together at the Winding Circle by the mage, Niko. Sandry, Briar, Tris and Daja are so different from each other but they all have magic within them that they need to develop and control. During there time in Discipline House, they also find time to become friends.

There wasn't much more to the book than the development of the characters. Most of the book is spent getting to know their backgrounds and their magical abilities. There was a bit at the end when they have to work together to save what they have found in their new home. Perhaps this is the setup for the action to come in the next few books.

I fear this is sounding like I didn't enjoy it but I really did. I read until I finished late into the night. I wouldn't have done that if it didn't grab my interest.

The best part, in my opinion, was how spinning yarn from wool was magic. It so is! ( )