Arrows of the Queen (Heralds of Valdemar #1)
Summary:
Chosen by the Companion Rolan, a mystical horse-like being with powers beyond imagining, Talia, once a runaway, has now become a trainee Herald, destined to become one of the Queen's own elite guard. For Talia has certain awakening talents of the mind that only a Companion like Rolan can truly sense.
But as Talia struggles to master her unique abilities, time is running out. For conspiracy is brewing in Valdemar, a deadly treason that could destroy Queen and kingdom. Opposed by unknown enemies capable of both diabolical magic and treacherous assassination, the Queen must turn to Talia and the Heralds for aid in protecting the realm and insuring the future of the Queen's heir, a child already in danger of becoming bespelled by the Queen's own foes. (Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)
Review:
This was a classic coming of age story about a young woman who has the opportunity to escape into a new world of the Heralds and become something bigger than herself. Overall this book reminded me of a grittier “Alanna” series. The descriptions of violence were a little more explicit and Talia definitely has to cope with much heavier mental challenges.
The world building is fantastic and I really liked the depth of the characters. If I have any complaints, it would be that Lackey often “tells vs shows” things – to a degree that sometimes when something happens it felt quite abrupt. I found it forgivable because it comes across in the style of a storyteller around a fire rather than distracting. Highly recommended!
Warning: Contains repeated violence.
Rating: 5 stars!
Who should read it? Fans of fantasy who don’t mind a little tell vs showing
Want to read the whole series?
Arrow’s Fall (Heralds of Valdemar #3)