The Will of the Empress (Circle Reforged, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Tamora Pierce's The Will of the Empress kicks off the Circle Reforged series, a continuation of her beloved Tortall universe, shifting focus to the next generation. The story centers on Dauphine Alyss, the illegitimate daughter of the late King of Tortall and a mysterious woman from the far-off land of Pirra. Alyss, possessing a fiercely independent spirit and exceptional fighting skills inherited from her Pirran heritage, is thrust into the political arena after her half-brother, King Jonathan, suddenly dies.

The main plot revolves around Alyss's struggle to navigate the treacherous court of Tortall while dealing with the secret of her origins and the ensuing political fallout. Jonathan's death leaves a power vacuum, triggering intense maneuvering by various factions, including ambitious nobles who seek to control the regency for the young heir, and those who oppose the Pirran influence on the throne. Alyss, despite her youth and lack of formal political training, possesses a natural aptitude for leadership and strategic thinking, honed through years of rigorous physical and mental training. This training, inspired by her mother's clandestine instruction and her own self-discipline, enables her to anticipate and counter many threats.

Key characters include Alyss herself, the dynamic and resourceful protagonist; King Jonathan, whose unexpected death sets the story in motion; and various members of the Tortallan court, some supportive of Alyss, others actively working against her. Importantly, the character of the unnamed Pirran woman, Alyss's mother, is a powerful presence despite her absence, influencing Alyss's strength and resilience through her legacy. Other significant players are Alyss's loyal friends and allies from her past, demonstrating the importance of loyalty and camaraderie.

The overarching themes explored in The Will of the Empress include the challenges of leadership, particularly for a woman in a patriarchal society. Alyss's journey is about overcoming prejudice and proving her worth through skill and intelligence, not simply her lineage. The novel also delves into the complexities of power, both its corrupting influence and its potential for good. The tension between the established order and the influences of foreign cultures, represented by Alyss's Pirran heritage, adds another significant layer to the narrative. Finally, the book touches upon the themes of personal identity, legacy, and the difficult choices one must make when faced with weighty responsibilities. Ultimately, The Will of the Empress presents a captivating coming-of-age story within a rich political landscape, promising further exploration of these powerful themes in the subsequent books of the series.