Song Of The Lioness Quartet

Many fantasy-loving women got hooked on fantasy with Alanna as teens. She has her heart set on being a knight, even though it's not "what girls do," and that passion and drive puts every one of us on a horse and on the adventure of a lifetime with her. Alanna's stubborn determination and bravery carry her far, but she makes mistakes, doubts herself, and has a wicked temper. She's a thoroughly real heroine, unique in the canvas of white male knights in high fantasy. While it's written (or rather edited; the first 734 pages were reportedly scrapped because it was too racy) to be a YA novel, the plot is madly complex and captivating, thoroughly engaging readers of all ages. There is some romance in the series, and I love that Alanna is clearly in control of her sexuality. She chooses who she sleeps with and when, and takes precautions to be responsible. She's been an inspiring role model for generations and hopefully many more.