The Woman Who Rides Like a Man by Tamora Pierce

On her first tour as a knight errant, Alanna assumes a position of influence with a fierce desert tribe, makes some changes in the role of women in the society, and continues her own emotional development.

"Let her prove herself worthy as a man."

Newly knighted, Alanna of Trebond seeks adventure in the vast desert of Tortall. Captured by fierce desert dwellers, she is forced to prove herself in a duel to the death -- either she will be killed or she will be inducted into the tribe. Although she triumphs, dire challenges lie ahead. As her mythic fate would have it, Alanna soon becomes the tribe's first female shaman -- despite the desert dwellers' grave fear of the foreign woman warrior. Alanna must fight to change the ancient tribal customs of the desert tribes -- for their sake and for the sake of all Tortall.

Alanna's journey continues...

Part 3 of a 4 part series that's part of a larger series. This was an enjoyable installment in the Alanna stories. She's a little older, and more independent, and ready for an adventure with her trusty cat at her side. It's YA and a fast read. A lovely little vacation from my everyday life. I'm diving right into #4 next.

Re-read continues!!

Surprisingly, I think I liked this one a lot more than I did as a kid. As a kid I found it boring, which I get... compared to the first two books which jump from one year to the next in the same chapter keeping up with the action, this book really slowed things down.
First book: 4 years
Second book: 3 years
Third (this) book: 1 year
A huge difference, especially when the book is larger. There was a lot to read and learn here, and yes quite a few problematic parts, WHICH even the author has admitted too and regrets, so I can forgive it.
Potential spoilers ahead:
I did notice a weird shift in Jonathon, but this may be because 1. we really didn't spend MUCH time with with him in the other books to truly learn about him, and 2. the author must have been trying for many different angles to keep Alanna and him a part.IT MAKES SENSE. A lady knight who wants to adventure and protect the realm will not want to settle down and listen to politics all the time. In fact, she really never liked the parties and court side of the palace anyhow. I guess this rant just means I understand even MORE why I prefer her and George <3

Looking forward to the last book, but doubt I'll find the time to finish it tonight ^_^;