Protector of the Small (First Test, Page, Squire, Lady Knight) (2004)

Four novels: First Test, Page, Squire and Lady Knight. Keladry’s development from a girl seeking knightly training to someone responsible for other people gives the series a clear progression beyond passing tests. Its final volume asks what her hard-won skills and principles are actually for. Choose it for earned competence, friendships and a full coming-of-age arc. Other Tortall series expand the setting, but these four complete Kel’s central training-and-service story.