A Few of My Favorites

I haven't actually read anything yet for this blog but I wanted to get some books up as soon as I could, so I'll just be giving a few of my favorite fantasy books.
First of all, though if you like fantasy you've probably already read them, we have the Alanna series by Tamora Pierce. It features a girl named Alanna who wants to become a knight. Unfortunately, women aren't allowed to fight so she is sent off to a boring life. However, she conveniently has a twin brother who is being sent off to become a knight, so what does she do? Switch places with him of course! This series has pretty much everything I look for in a fantasy book: a strong female lead, a good bit of magic, and just enough romance to be pleasing (meaning it doesn't totally overshadow the plot). This formula is true for most of Pierce's books and for me it never gets old. All of the characters are wonderful and the pace is perfect. I've read the series over and over again and I never get bored. All in all, a good read.
This brings me to another of her series, also lovely: the Wild Magic series. Daine has a most unusual power: the ability to talk to animals. After tragedy strikes and leaves her alone in the world but for her horse, Daine has to find way to survive. Armed with a horse for a friend and her unusual gift, she goes off in search of a job. Little does she know what the future holds for her. Again, a wonderful series from a wonderful author. I think this book is what really got me into the whole fantasy section. I think all of Pierce's books are great, though there are still some I haven't read. She's a great author and her books don't disappoint!
Lastly, and from what I can tell a little less well known, there is the Pellinor series by Alison Croggon. This series features a girl named Maerad who grows up as something of a slave with no chance of escape. That is until she finds a mysterious stranger sleeping in the barn, a man who could not possibly have gotten in unnoticed. So where has he come from and why is he sleeping in a barn of all places? This series reminds me a lot of Tamora Pierce's books. If you enjoyed them then you should enjoy these immensely. I was ecstatic when I discovered the series and recommend it to anyone who enjoys these sorts of things. The books have all of their own lore and a very well developed world. I can't imagine how long it took to think up!
I hope you found this information helpful! Feedback is welcome!
Catherine