Tamora Pierce Books In Order Of Release

If you’re searching for Tamora Pierce books in order, you’re likely a fan of empowering young adult fantasy filled with strong heroines, magical worlds, and epic adventures. Tamora Pierce has captivated readers for decades with her richly built universes, particularly the medieval-inspired realm of Tortall and the magic-infused land of Emelan. Her stories feature brave girls and women who defy expectations, master magic or combat, and shape their destinies.

Pierce’s books are perfect for teens and adults alike, blending themes of feminism, friendship, growth, and courage. Whether you’re new to her work or revisiting old favorites, knowing the best reading order helps avoid spoilers and enhances the experience. Most fans recommend publication order within each universe, as later books often reference earlier ones.

Below, you’ll find Tamora Pierce’s books listed by series, including both publication and chronological notes where relevant.

Tortall Universe Books in Order To Read

The Tortall series dominates Pierce’s bibliography, set in the kingdom of Tortall and surrounding lands. These interconnected stories span generations, featuring cameos from beloved characters across the series.

Recommended Reading Order: Publication Order

This preserves surprises and character developments.

1. Song of the Lioness Quartet (Start here—it’s Pierce’s debut and introduces the world!)
   • Alanna: The First Adventure (1983)
   • In the Hand of the Goddess (1984)
   • The Woman Who Rides Like a Man (1986)
   • Lioness Rampant (1988)
2. The Immortals Quartet
   • Wild Magic (1992)
   • Wolf-Speaker (1994)
   • Emperor Mage (1995)
   • The Realms of the Gods (1996)
3. Protector of the Small Quartet
   • First Test (1999)
   • Page (2000)
   • Squire (2001)
   • Lady Knight (2002)
4. Daughter of the Lioness (Trickster) Duology
   • Trickster’s Choice (2003)
   • Trickster’s Queen (2004)
5. Beka Cooper (Provost’s Dog) Trilogy (Prequel set ~200 years earlier)
   • Terrier (2006)
   • Bloodhound (2009)
   • Mastiff (2011)
6. Numair Chronicles (Prequel focusing on Numair’s youth; ongoing)
   • Tempests and Slaughter (2018)
   • (Books 2 and 3 forthcoming)

Additional Tortall Books

• Tortall and Other Lands: A Collection of Tales (2011) – Short stories, some set in Tortall.
• Tortall: A Spy’s Guide (2017) – Companion guide with lore, letters, and extras.

Chronological Order Note for Tortall: For timeline purists, read Beka Cooper first, then Numair Chronicles (partial), followed by Song of the Lioness onward. However, publication order is widely preferred to avoid spoilers.

Circle of Magic (Emelan) Universe Books in Order

Pierce’s other major universe, Emelan, focuses on ambient magic and four young mages who form a found family. These books are slightly younger-skewed but equally beloved.

Publication and Reading Order

The seriesflowsw chronologically.

1. Circle of Magic Quartet
   • Sandry’s Book (1997; also titled The Magic in the Weaving)
   • Tris’s Book (1998; also titled The Power in the Storm)
   • Daja’s Book (1998; also titled The Fire in the Forging)
   • Briar’s Book (1999; also titled The Healing in the Vine)
2. The Circle Opens Quartet
   • Magic Steps (2000)
   • Street Magic (2001)
   • Cold Fire (2002)
   • Shatterglass (2003)
3. The Circle Reforged
   • The Will of the Empress (2005)
4. Additional Emelan Books
   • Melting Stones (2008; follows Evvy from Street Magic)
   • Battle Magic (2013; prequel events during Briar, Rosethorn, and Evvy’s travels)

The Tortall and Emelan universes are separate—no crossovers—so you can read one before the other. Many start with Tortall for its knightly adventures, then move to Emelan for its unique magic systems.

Complete List of Tamora Pierce Books by Series (Publication Order)

Notes:

• This list includes all main novels and key additional works as of December 2025. Graphic novel adaptations (e.g., Alanna graphic novel, 2025) are retellings and not included.
• Recommended reading order is generally by publication date within each universe (Tortall and Emelan are separate with no crossovers).
• For Tortall chronological order: Start with Beka Cooper, then Numair Chronicles, then Song of the Lioness onward. Publication order is preferred by most fans to avoid spoilers.

Why Read Tamora Pierce Books?

Pierce’s novels stand out for their groundbreaking female protagonists in the fantasy genre. From Alanna disguising herself as a boy to become a knight, to Daine communicating with animals, to Kel battling sexism in training—these stories inspire confidence and resilience. Her world-building is detailed yet accessible, with diverse characters and thoughtful exploration of power, identity, and justice.

If you’re diving in, grab Alanna: The First Adventure—it’s a timeless entry point that hooks most readers instantly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tamora Pierce Books

• Where to start with Tamora Pierce? The Song of the Lioness quartet.
• How many Tamora Pierce books are there? Over 30, including series, standalones, and collections (as of 2025).
• Are there new Tamora Pierce books? The Numair Chronicles continue, with more expected.

Ready to embark on a magical journey? Pick up a Tamora Pierce book today—you won’t regret it! Which series will you read first? Share in the comments if you’re a longtime fan. Happy reading!