Shatterglass

Shatterglass by Tamora Pierce, published by Scholastic in 2003, is the fourth and final installment in The Circle Opens quartet. This edition, written in English and spanning 358 pages, follows Tris as she navigates the oppressive atmosphere of Tharios, a city where the townsfolk are fixated on protocol, leading to the existence of an invisible underclass. When a series of brutal murders disrupts the city’s fragile peace, Tris is taken aback by the city-fathers’ dismissive attitude towards these crimes, prompting her to seek justice.

Readers will find a narrative that explores themes of magic and societal issues through the eyes of Tris and Keth, a reluctant mage-student grappling with his own lightning-magic after a life-altering incident. As they confront the challenges posed by the murders, Keth’s glassblowing skills and his struggle with his powers become central to their quest for truth. This book delves into the complexities of friendship and the responsibilities that come with power, set against a backdrop of fantasy and magic.