In the Hand of the Goddess (Song of the Lioness #2)

Why does Tamora Pierce like purple-eyed cats? I've read about a lot of purple-eyed cats ever since I read my first Tamora Pierce book, in this series as well as the Beka Cooper one. Not to say I don't like purple-eyed cats, I think they're pretty cool. Well, now to move on to the bulk of my review.

I loved this book, but not as much as The First Adventure. I love how Alanna is so amazing at keeping her gender a secret for so long. I found it truly remarkable. If I lived there and I wanted to be a knight (which I would), I would definitely try to do as good as Alanna.

I think Alanna must be a very strong-willed character, as she conquered all the tasks that people deemed to hard for the women. I would love to be as powerful as Alanna, and prove those men that women are just as amazing, maybe even better!

The beloved Song of the Lioness series has enthralled fans for decades, and now an even larger audience can revel in these adventure-filled fantasies, which are in trade paperback for the first time and feature newly designed covers.
In Alanna, Alanna of Trebond disguises herself as a boy and makes her way to the castle of King Roald to being training as a page. As she masters the skills necessary for battle, Alanna must also learn to control her heart. This challenge is even greater in In the Hand of the Goddess, where Alanna becomes a squire to Prince Jonathan, who knows the secret of her identity. But when a mysterious sorcerer threatens the prince’s life, it will take all of Alanna’s skill, strength, and magical power to protect him. Her efforts result in knighthood, and in The Woman Who Rides Like a Man, Alanna seeks adventure in a vast desert of Tortall, where, after a life-threatening duel, she becomes the first female shaman to an ancient tribe. Her warrior wisdom is put to the test in Lioness Rampant, because Tortall is in grave danger that only Alanna can prevent. As she takes on her archenemy, Alanna discovers she has a future worthy of her mythic past—both as a warrior and a woman.

I think the idea of this book was awesome, and I liked how all the books are building up for the epic conclusion.

Reader reviewed by Kody Boye

In the Hand of the Goddess was a great book, starting out with the mother goddess giving Alanna the stone, and a strange, purple eyed cat coming to aid Alanna. She soon learns the cat is more than he appears, and will guide Alanna throughout the book. It was excellent, and I support Pierce and her writing to the fullest.

Reader reviewed by Hiba

This is a awesome continuition to the first book, Alanna: the first adventure in the Song of the Lioness Quartet. I love this book. Alanna becomes a squire and has many adventures. She fights the Duke of Conte, Roger in a fierce combat and learns to love. There is some chemistry between George and Alanna which is very sweet and adorable. All in all, a grea book and a great read!! Get it s soon as you can!!

Reader reviewed by Spartanx1x

This book is the first you see of Alanna's love. George a thief and Prince Jonathan both try to get Alanna to like them leaving her torn between her two best friends. She also has two more things on her mind taking form as The Ordeal and Duke Roger of Conte.

Reader reviewed by Loyal Reader

I loved this book soooo much! It's the second book in the Song of the Lioness series. Alanna is a squire in this book and she has many adventures and challenges facing the evil Duke Roger, and overcoming her fear of love. This book keeps u interested the whole way through and it's one that you can't put down once you've picked it up! I loved it and i think anyone that reads it will too!

Reader reviewed by Amanda

Song of the Lioness: In the Hand of the Goddess was an interesting book in the continuation of Alanna: The First Adventure. Alanna has been chosen for the squire of Prince Jonathan. Besides being a squire, Jonathan and herself are in love. However, he is only one of a few people that knows Alan is Alanna. Alanna meets the Goddess, gains Faithful, the cat, and deals with the evil Duke Roger of Conte. What in the world is he up to? Will Alanna survive her ordeal in the end of her squire duties? Will she marry Prince Jonathan or George or anyone at all? Read Song of the Lioness: In the Hand of the Goddess to find out!


Alanna is a magical character who lives with the trials and tribulations of love, life, death, being a squire, and dealing with her true identity. I enjoy Alanna's struggle. It causes suspense, action, and fun! I suggest this novel to young adult girls everwhere!

Reader reviewed by Cleoqueen

This is an amazing read. I would completely reccomend the entire series of the "Song of the Lioness" series. I love the characters in it as well as the action, romance, and foreshadowing! EXCELLENT!!!