Title: Arrows of the Queen
Author: Mercedes Lackey
Series: Heralds of Valdemar #1, Valdemar #23
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Fantasy, Strong women
Pace: Medium
Format: Novel
Publisher: Daw fantasy
Year: 1987
5th sentence, 74th page: Bright Havens, child, he’s your Companion now; if you really wanted to, you could sleep in his stall!
A KINGDOM IMPERILED!
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 which 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!
Words can’t even express how awesome I found this book. I’m reading it for the second time in a week as I wait for the next one in the series to arrive. I think I’ve found my new favourite author! A good heroine, a great fantasy world and a fantastic story line. What more could you ask for?
It’s rare that I find a heroine that isn’t sassy, sarcastic and has a major attitude problem that I can love and admire. But, Talia manages to mix humility and insecurities in a quiet, withdrawn persona with a backbone of steel. Talia’s journey from ignorant, abused border girl to a strong and powerful Herald in her own right underpinned her adventures and experiences throughout the story.
This book was a great introduction to the Valdemar universe and the Companions that create such a peaceful realm. If you like fantasy, then this is a highly recommended series – an oldie, but a goodie.
Earth and Skye 
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