Sunday 6 June 2010

Arrows of the Queen - Book Review


Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey

What is it about:
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 Queens'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.


What did I think of it:
This is the first book of a trilogy and the first of many books Lackey has written that is set in Valdemar. I love this book! It introduces you to Valdemar and the Heralds who help rule this country while being a really suspenseful and compelling story as well. Lackey's worldbuilding is excellent and the characters she creates are well worked out and rounded too from Talia all the way down to the lesser important characters. You could argue that the premise of a poor, mistreated girl being chosen for greatness is something that's been done and done again, but I must say that if someone uses an idea like that and writes an excellent story with it, I do not care how often it's been used before.

Why should you read it:
If you like well written fantasy you should try this book.
(Take a look at yesterday's post to see what books to read after finishing this one.)


1 comment:

Nina said...

Sounds like a very good fantasy book. I never heard of it before, but it does looks nice. :)