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Valdemar: The Last Herald-Mage #2
Magic's Promise
Groundbreaking epic fantasy series in Mercedes Lackey’s Valdemar universe • Lambda-Award winning novels with heartfelt high adventure and magic
Wild magic is taking its toll on the land. Many Heralds and Herald-Mages have died fighting to preserve the peace. Even Vanyel, the most powerful of the Herald-Mages is almost at the end of his strength, in need of a respite from the dual threats of war and dark magic.
But for Vanyel, there can be no rest. Not when his Companion, Yfandes, receives a summons which can’t be ignored — a desperate cry of a magical holocaust in the neighboring kingdom. Almost overwhelmed by the devastations they discover there, Herald-Mage and Companion must try to unravel this tragic mystery.
Is the young Prince Tashir, a newly Chosen Herald who can’t control his magic, responsible for the destruction? Or is Tashir a pawn in a deeper, more deadly game—and, if so, will Vanyel be able to find and defeat the true destroyer before this master of dark powers can strike again?
Wild magic is taking its toll on the land. Many Heralds and Herald-Mages have died fighting to preserve the peace. Even Vanyel, the most powerful of the Herald-Mages is almost at the end of his strength, in need of a respite from the dual threats of war and dark magic.
But for Vanyel, there can be no rest. Not when his Companion, Yfandes, receives a summons which can’t be ignored — a desperate cry of a magical holocaust in the neighboring kingdom. Almost overwhelmed by the devastations they discover there, Herald-Mage and Companion must try to unravel this tragic mystery.
Is the young Prince Tashir, a newly Chosen Herald who can’t control his magic, responsible for the destruction? Or is Tashir a pawn in a deeper, more deadly game—and, if so, will Vanyel be able to find and defeat the true destroyer before this master of dark powers can strike again?
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1990
About the author
Mercedes Lackey
634 books8,942 followersMercedes entered this world on June 24, 1950, in Chicago, had a normal childhood and graduated from Purdue University in 1972. During the late 70's she worked as an artist's model and then went into the computer programming field, ending up with American Airlines in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In addition to her fantasy writing, she has written lyrics for and recorded nearly fifty songs for Firebird Arts & Music, a small recording company specializing in science fiction folk music.
"I'm a storyteller; that's what I see as 'my job'. My stories come out of my characters; how those characters would react to the given situation. Maybe that's why I get letters from readers as young as thirteen and as old as sixty-odd. One of the reasons I write song lyrics is because I see songs as a kind of 'story pill' -- they reduce a story to the barest essentials or encapsulate a particular crucial moment in time. I frequently will write a lyric when I am attempting to get to the heart of a crucial scene; I find that when I have done so, the scene has become absolutely clear in my mind, and I can write exactly what I wanted to say. Another reason is because of the kind of novels I am writing: that is, fantasy, set in an other-world semi-medieval atmosphere. Music is very important to medieval peoples; bards are the chief newsbringers. When I write the 'folk music' of these peoples, I am enriching my whole world, whether I actually use the song in the text or not.
"I began writing out of boredom; I continue out of addiction. I can't 'not' write, and as a result I have no social life! I began writing fantasy because I love it, but I try to construct my fantasy worlds with all the care of a 'high-tech' science fiction writer. I apply the principle of TANSTAAFL ['There ain't no such thing as free lunch', credited to Robert Heinlein) to magic, for instance; in my worlds, magic is paid for, and the cost to the magician is frequently a high one. I try to keep my world as solid and real as possible; people deal with stubborn pumps, bugs in the porridge, and love-lives that refuse to become untangled, right along with invading armies and evil magicians. And I try to make all of my characters, even the 'evil magicians,' something more than flat stereotypes. Even evil magicians get up in the night and look for cookies, sometimes.
"I suppose that in everything I write I try to expound the creed I gave my character Diana Tregarde in Burning Water:
"There's no such thing as 'one, true way'; the only answers worth having are the ones you find for yourself; leave the world better than you found it. Love, freedom, and the chance to do some good -- they're the things worth living and dying for, and if you aren't willing to die for the things worth living for, you might as well turn in your membership in the human race."
Also writes as Misty Lackey
Author's website
"I'm a storyteller; that's what I see as 'my job'. My stories come out of my characters; how those characters would react to the given situation. Maybe that's why I get letters from readers as young as thirteen and as old as sixty-odd. One of the reasons I write song lyrics is because I see songs as a kind of 'story pill' -- they reduce a story to the barest essentials or encapsulate a particular crucial moment in time. I frequently will write a lyric when I am attempting to get to the heart of a crucial scene; I find that when I have done so, the scene has become absolutely clear in my mind, and I can write exactly what I wanted to say. Another reason is because of the kind of novels I am writing: that is, fantasy, set in an other-world semi-medieval atmosphere. Music is very important to medieval peoples; bards are the chief newsbringers. When I write the 'folk music' of these peoples, I am enriching my whole world, whether I actually use the song in the text or not.
"I began writing out of boredom; I continue out of addiction. I can't 'not' write, and as a result I have no social life! I began writing fantasy because I love it, but I try to construct my fantasy worlds with all the care of a 'high-tech' science fiction writer. I apply the principle of TANSTAAFL ['There ain't no such thing as free lunch', credited to Robert Heinlein) to magic, for instance; in my worlds, magic is paid for, and the cost to the magician is frequently a high one. I try to keep my world as solid and real as possible; people deal with stubborn pumps, bugs in the porridge, and love-lives that refuse to become untangled, right along with invading armies and evil magicians. And I try to make all of my characters, even the 'evil magicians,' something more than flat stereotypes. Even evil magicians get up in the night and look for cookies, sometimes.
"I suppose that in everything I write I try to expound the creed I gave my character Diana Tregarde in Burning Water:
"There's no such thing as 'one, true way'; the only answers worth having are the ones you find for yourself; leave the world better than you found it. Love, freedom, and the chance to do some good -- they're the things worth living and dying for, and if you aren't willing to die for the things worth living for, you might as well turn in your membership in the human race."
Also writes as Misty Lackey
Author's website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 438 reviews
September 10, 2019
I don't know what just happened, and I'm almost afraid to examine it too closely in case I find things to nitpick (and I certainly could nitpick) and end up lowering my rating.
This hasn't been a very good year for me, rating wise, and I was pretty close to giving up on Lackey altogether. I was really tempted to just finish up this trilogy and move on. And for all I know, it goes downhill from here (I know how the next book ends) and this book is a complete fluke. After the dregs of the Vows & Honor series, I wouldn't be surprised if that ends up being the case, but this one gives me hope that there could be other gems in the Valdemar series.
This series has certainly had it's ups and downs, and Lackey has quite a few storytelling quirks that irk me more often than not - like her tendency to emphasize words she feels are important but really puts the emphasis on words that end up being completely unimportant and not at all the words I'd emphasize myself. It breaks the natural flow of the sentence structure and I really wish she'd stop trying to help out the readers with the constant italics. Also, she can't write a romance worth a damn. Thankfully, she doesn't really attempt that here, and the little hint of a possible (completely nonsensical) one was mostly ignored and then quickly resolved, taking up maybe a half page out of the whole book total.
She has gotten much better at writing action and she's filling in more of the rules of this world with each novel and trilogy that gives new insights into things that didn't quite make sense before.
Now I could certainly complain about the "gays don't get happy endings" trope and the "gays must suffer" trope that are definitely in full force here, and I wouldn't blame readers who get annoyed by them, because I certainly do too. But for Vanyel's personal journey, knowing where this character comes from and what he's been through, and knowing already some of the history of this story and how it impacts later generations, what Vanyel goes through here to understand his place in the world and to come to a sort of peace with his hurts and losses makes sense. Also, keeping in mind this was written in 1990, Lackey needed to humanize Van as a character, which means he is going to be used to call attention to many of the stereotypes so prevalent (even to this day) about gay men.
I was thrown a bit at first that this jumps ahead in the timeline by about 10 years or so, and some of the cast of supporting characters were new. I was having to catch up at the beginning, but then Vanyel was off for "vacation" back at the homestead with his loving family and things got so good. A former rival turns into a surprising ally, his father ends up being kind of reasonable, there's trouble over the Border and new friends to make. I really liked Medren and Tashir, and it was a treat to actually get to see Vanyel engage in a job rather than just hear about it afterwards. Savil continues to be great, and even Van's brother Mekeal has his shining moments.
Everything was just working in this one. Lackey was firing on all cylinders and she proved that when she stays focused and doesn't get wrapped up in unnecessary high school melodrama or half-formed subplots she can actually weave a fantastic story.
This hasn't been a very good year for me, rating wise, and I was pretty close to giving up on Lackey altogether. I was really tempted to just finish up this trilogy and move on. And for all I know, it goes downhill from here (I know how the next book ends) and this book is a complete fluke. After the dregs of the Vows & Honor series, I wouldn't be surprised if that ends up being the case, but this one gives me hope that there could be other gems in the Valdemar series.
This series has certainly had it's ups and downs, and Lackey has quite a few storytelling quirks that irk me more often than not - like her tendency to emphasize words she feels are important but really puts the emphasis on words that end up being completely unimportant and not at all the words I'd emphasize myself. It breaks the natural flow of the sentence structure and I really wish she'd stop trying to help out the readers with the constant italics. Also, she can't write a romance worth a damn. Thankfully, she doesn't really attempt that here, and the little hint of a possible (completely nonsensical) one was mostly ignored and then quickly resolved, taking up maybe a half page out of the whole book total.
She has gotten much better at writing action and she's filling in more of the rules of this world with each novel and trilogy that gives new insights into things that didn't quite make sense before.
Now I could certainly complain about the "gays don't get happy endings" trope and the "gays must suffer" trope that are definitely in full force here, and I wouldn't blame readers who get annoyed by them, because I certainly do too. But for Vanyel's personal journey, knowing where this character comes from and what he's been through, and knowing already some of the history of this story and how it impacts later generations, what Vanyel goes through here to understand his place in the world and to come to a sort of peace with his hurts and losses makes sense. Also, keeping in mind this was written in 1990, Lackey needed to humanize Van as a character, which means he is going to be used to call attention to many of the stereotypes so prevalent (even to this day) about gay men.
I was thrown a bit at first that this jumps ahead in the timeline by about 10 years or so, and some of the cast of supporting characters were new. I was having to catch up at the beginning, but then Vanyel was off for "vacation" back at the homestead with his loving family and things got so good. A former rival turns into a surprising ally, his father ends up being kind of reasonable, there's trouble over the Border and new friends to make. I really liked Medren and Tashir, and it was a treat to actually get to see Vanyel engage in a job rather than just hear about it afterwards. Savil continues to be great, and even Van's brother Mekeal has his shining moments.
Everything was just working in this one. Lackey was firing on all cylinders and she proved that when she stays focused and doesn't get wrapped up in unnecessary high school melodrama or half-formed subplots she can actually weave a fantastic story.
December 11, 2017
How wonderful to have a more mature and thoughtful Vanyel to narrate the second volume of this series. Not there is no angst, but it is dealt with in a much more adult way.
A depleted & exhausted Vanyel returns from the battle front, only to discover that his family insist on his presence at home—not the most restful place for the young man. His father is having difficulty accepting Vanyel’s sexual orientation and his mother frankly refuses to believe him, proceeding to push any and every attractive young woman at him. If that wasn’t enough, he has to deal with his former master-at-arms and the local priest, both of whom made his younger life miserable.
However, Vanyel is now a hero, his exploits sung about by the bards, and he & his companion, Yfandes, are called to rescue another young man & Companion during their visit. Demonstrating his magic, skill, bravery, and good judgement, Vanyel is able to start the healing journey for his family relationships.
Book number 268 in my Science Fiction and Fantasy reading project.
A depleted & exhausted Vanyel returns from the battle front, only to discover that his family insist on his presence at home—not the most restful place for the young man. His father is having difficulty accepting Vanyel’s sexual orientation and his mother frankly refuses to believe him, proceeding to push any and every attractive young woman at him. If that wasn’t enough, he has to deal with his former master-at-arms and the local priest, both of whom made his younger life miserable.
However, Vanyel is now a hero, his exploits sung about by the bards, and he & his companion, Yfandes, are called to rescue another young man & Companion during their visit. Demonstrating his magic, skill, bravery, and good judgement, Vanyel is able to start the healing journey for his family relationships.
Book number 268 in my Science Fiction and Fantasy reading project.
September 14, 2021
I really liked the first book but I LOVED this book. The characterisation was sublime, the world-building a treat, and the plot pulled eagerly at my heartstrings.
Magic's Promise begins eleven-ish years after Magic's Pawn leaves off. Vanyel is twenty-eight and the most powerful Herald-Mage in Valdemar. He's spent the last five years battling Karse on the south border and returns to Haven burnt out and exhausted. In need of respite, but knowing that, if he stays in Haven, he'll be called upon, Vanyel heads home to Forst Reach.
There, Vanyel must renegotiate his familial ties, as an adult and a power in his own right. But any fragile peace he’s forged is banished when tragedy strikes the neighbouring kingdom of Lineas. Only Vanyel can protect what's left of the royal line and discover what's happened before its too late. To do so, he must risk the lives everyone he loves.
The Vanyel we meet in this book is a far cry from the Vanyel we left in the last. That Vanyel was broken by grief, bent by abuse and desperate for another to carry his burdens. This Vanyel is steadier and more self-aware; less emotionally reactive and more willing to forgive and forget. He’s lighter, if not quite happy, and able to carry both his own burdens and the burdens of others – even the King’s. And carry them he must, because Mage numbers are dwindling and, without him, Valdemar will fall. He’s a character to admire and respect; not perfect, and certainly worn, but trying.
The book packs an emotional punch and includes some tough themes, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse of minors, incest, rape, grief and death. Lackey handles them with finesse and had my emotions soaring from horror to elation, deep distress to huge satisfaction, and back again.
I laughed at Vanyel pimping Yfandes out to the local (horse) studs. My favourites scenes, though, were those featuring both Vanyel and his father, or Vanyel and Jervis. Their evolving relationships were a wonder to watch and made me truly appreciate Lackey as an author.
I can’t wait to read on to the next, even knowing what’s coming. I know I’m in for a ride, and probably some tears, but it’ll be worth it for the journey.
“How much you going to take before you crack?” “As much,” Vanyel replied deliberately, “as I have to.”
Magic's Promise begins eleven-ish years after Magic's Pawn leaves off. Vanyel is twenty-eight and the most powerful Herald-Mage in Valdemar. He's spent the last five years battling Karse on the south border and returns to Haven burnt out and exhausted. In need of respite, but knowing that, if he stays in Haven, he'll be called upon, Vanyel heads home to Forst Reach.
There, Vanyel must renegotiate his familial ties, as an adult and a power in his own right. But any fragile peace he’s forged is banished when tragedy strikes the neighbouring kingdom of Lineas. Only Vanyel can protect what's left of the royal line and discover what's happened before its too late. To do so, he must risk the lives everyone he loves.
“Dearest, there is no choice. I lost my chance at choices a long time ago.”
The Vanyel we meet in this book is a far cry from the Vanyel we left in the last. That Vanyel was broken by grief, bent by abuse and desperate for another to carry his burdens. This Vanyel is steadier and more self-aware; less emotionally reactive and more willing to forgive and forget. He’s lighter, if not quite happy, and able to carry both his own burdens and the burdens of others – even the King’s. And carry them he must, because Mage numbers are dwindling and, without him, Valdemar will fall. He’s a character to admire and respect; not perfect, and certainly worn, but trying.
“Vanyel Demonsbane? The Shadow Stalker? The Hero of—” “Please—” Vanyel cut her off, pleadingly. “Please, it—yes, I’m Vanyel. But—honestly, it wasn’t like you think.” He groped for the words that would make the near-worship he saw on her face go back to ordinary friendliness. “It wasn’t like that, it really wasn’t—just things had to get done, and I was the only one to do them, so I did. I’m not a hero, or—I’m just—I’m just—another Herald,” he finished lamely.
The book packs an emotional punch and includes some tough themes, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse of minors, incest, rape, grief and death. Lackey handles them with finesse and had my emotions soaring from horror to elation, deep distress to huge satisfaction, and back again.
I laughed at Vanyel pimping Yfandes out to the local (horse) studs. My favourites scenes, though, were those featuring both Vanyel and his father, or Vanyel and Jervis. Their evolving relationships were a wonder to watch and made me truly appreciate Lackey as an author.
“Please, Father – I’m not asking for much. I’m not asking you to do anything. Only to believe that I am a decent human being. Believe in Herald Vanyel if you won’t believe in your son.”
I can’t wait to read on to the next, even knowing what’s coming. I know I’m in for a ride, and probably some tears, but it’ll be worth it for the journey.
“I do it because I have to. Because I’m needed. There isn’t anybody—I’m not boasting, Jervis, you can ask Savil—there isn’t anybody else in the whole Kingdom that can do what I can do. I can’t give up, I can’t just shrug things off and tell myself somebody else will take up the slack, because there isn’t anybody else. There are too many people out there who need my protection; because I’m this powerful, I have an obligation to use that power. I’m the lone Guard at the Gate—I daren’t give up, because there’s nobody behind me to take up what I lay down.” Jervis’ face went absolutely still. Vanyel wished he knew what the old man was thinking. “Nobody?” he asked. Vanyel shook his hair out of his eyes. “Nobody,” he echoed, staring into space. “I have no choice; it’s that, or know my inaction dooms others. Sometimes lots of others. Too many times, others I know and care for.”
July 16, 2022
I loved the first book in this series. I have to say that I wasn't loving this story. Some of it has to do with my own stuff and some of it was the story. It's still a good story, but as a 2nd book in a trilogy, I feel this was a weak story.
Firstly, Vanyel is about 12 years older or so. We skip over so much of his life and now he is a war-worn 28 year old Mage-Herald. He is the most powerful person keeping the kingdom going. He is exhausted and lonely.
Secondly, Vanyel does discuss a few past one-night stands, but there is no love story in this one. I think what really drew me in last book was the love story and here, Vanyel is simply lonely. This is my stuff. I'm feeling that lonely and I don't really want to read about that kind of thing right now as I have plenty of it going in my life. I was looking for a new love interest or something. I mean, there is nothing here. It was rough.
Thirdly, I wasn't really into the plot. I feel like I didn't know this older grizzled Vanyel and I don't know that Mercedes did a lot to win me over. Vanyel wasn't all that compelling for me in this story. Plus, I didn't really care for the small mystery of Tasiel, did he kill people or not. It was okay, but nothing exciting.
Fourthly, Lissa, his sister comes back and there is hardly any interaction between them. She means nothing to the story really. It was disappointing.
I did enjoy how Vanyel made peace with many people in his family, like his father and the armsmaster Jarvis. That was the best part.
Mercedes dealing with Vanyel's queerness does some great things. Many people, just like they did in the 80s and 90s, assumed because Vanyel was gay that he lured young boys into his bed and Vanyel has to deal with this disgusting stereotype over and over and prove himself over and over to his family.
Overall, this book was difficult for me to get through. The first 100 pages was good, the middle 100 was so difficult and then the last 100 was pretty good. I will say that I read a book in the middle of this and I was also addicted to the Untamed and Word of Honor China dramas at this time, so I had distractions. Still, the book didn't hold my attention well. I hope the last book gets better. It might be awhile before I read that.
Firstly, Vanyel is about 12 years older or so. We skip over so much of his life and now he is a war-worn 28 year old Mage-Herald. He is the most powerful person keeping the kingdom going. He is exhausted and lonely.
Secondly, Vanyel does discuss a few past one-night stands, but there is no love story in this one. I think what really drew me in last book was the love story and here, Vanyel is simply lonely. This is my stuff. I'm feeling that lonely and I don't really want to read about that kind of thing right now as I have plenty of it going in my life. I was looking for a new love interest or something. I mean, there is nothing here. It was rough.
Thirdly, I wasn't really into the plot. I feel like I didn't know this older grizzled Vanyel and I don't know that Mercedes did a lot to win me over. Vanyel wasn't all that compelling for me in this story. Plus, I didn't really care for the small mystery of Tasiel, did he kill people or not. It was okay, but nothing exciting.
Fourthly, Lissa, his sister comes back and there is hardly any interaction between them. She means nothing to the story really. It was disappointing.
I did enjoy how Vanyel made peace with many people in his family, like his father and the armsmaster Jarvis. That was the best part.
Mercedes dealing with Vanyel's queerness does some great things. Many people, just like they did in the 80s and 90s, assumed because Vanyel was gay that he lured young boys into his bed and Vanyel has to deal with this disgusting stereotype over and over and prove himself over and over to his family.
Overall, this book was difficult for me to get through. The first 100 pages was good, the middle 100 was so difficult and then the last 100 was pretty good. I will say that I read a book in the middle of this and I was also addicted to the Untamed and Word of Honor China dramas at this time, so I had distractions. Still, the book didn't hold my attention well. I hope the last book gets better. It might be awhile before I read that.
March 17, 2009
Herald-Mage Vanyel has spent long years defending Valdemar against wild magic at its borders, and has seen many of his friends and fellow mages die in the fierce demonic battles. Returning from one such bitter victory, Vanyel is exhausted, haggard, lonely and heartsick. By king Randal's order he takes time off to rest and recuperate, all the while knowing the safety of Valdemar rests on his shoulders - for who else could do his job? There is no one else.
Reluctantly returning to his family's estate for a "holiday", as much of one as you could get amongst his family, Vanyel faces up to many past torments. There's his father, Withen, and his homophobia; Melenna, who doesn't believe she can't convince Vanyel to become heterosexual and marry her; Melenna and his brother's bastard son, Medren, who has a Bard's gift; his brother's half-baked ideas of running the farm; and his old nemesis, Jervis, the armsmaster.
Family troubles take a backseat when Vanyel and his Companion, Yfandes, sense a Companion's distress from the next kingdom over, Baires, where trouble has been brewing between it and its neighbour, Lineas. The ruling families have intermarried but the king of Baires disinherited his first-born, Tashir, because it was widely believed he was the son of the Queen's uncle, a mage from Lineas. Now the entire royal family of Baires is dead except for Tashir, shredded to bits inside the palace, and a Herald from Valdemar, Lores, thinks it's Tashir's doing. Tashir has exhibited some magic and he's the only survivor. It's Tashir's new Companion's distress that they heard, as Lores thinks he's a demon and is whipping him.
Vanyel rescues the boy, who looks scarily like his long-dead life-bonded love, Tylendel, and whisks him off to the family estate while he and Savil try to figure out what really happened.
The character development of the first book is something that really impressed me, and it continues here. Vanyel, older now but still fairly young, has experienced a lot but still has much to learn - about himself, about love and life. He's isolated himself, and is often confused and angry and hurt, but he's definitely more mature and better able to deal with other people - in short, he's the same Vanyel, just more weathered. And still changing. I can't help but feel for the poor man, and want a bit of happiness to go his way, for his loneliness comes through clearly and painfully.
Lackey's infamous habit of italicising very second word doesn't become any less irritating, and italics are hard to block out, especially when used so liberally (it always makes me think of L.M. Montgomery's Emily of New Moon, who was told by her grumpy teacher to stop using italics in her writing). Other than that, I enjoy her writing style and I love her characters.
The world, while it has a narrow focus and often vague details, feels strong and real because of the prose, and because the story focuses so much on Van and his inner angst. "Angst" is such a bad word, I know, but you'll empathise with Vanyel; it's hard not to. He's a moody lad, broods too much, and doesn't always stand up for himself when he should - like with poor Melenna - but he has a nice balance of decisiveness, courage, self-torment and humbleness, that makes him familiar yet new.
The plot is a little tricky to follow at times because, as with the previous book, you're thrown in with an assumed prior knowledge that, while it makes the world feel very real, does make you fall behind the characters at times. But it's a matter of faith, I think: things do come clear, though the minor characters got a bit muddled in my head and a map would be really really helpful with this trilogy. Now, let's just hope it doesn't take me another year to read the last book, or I'll forget what happened to Tylendel all over again!
Reluctantly returning to his family's estate for a "holiday", as much of one as you could get amongst his family, Vanyel faces up to many past torments. There's his father, Withen, and his homophobia; Melenna, who doesn't believe she can't convince Vanyel to become heterosexual and marry her; Melenna and his brother's bastard son, Medren, who has a Bard's gift; his brother's half-baked ideas of running the farm; and his old nemesis, Jervis, the armsmaster.
Family troubles take a backseat when Vanyel and his Companion, Yfandes, sense a Companion's distress from the next kingdom over, Baires, where trouble has been brewing between it and its neighbour, Lineas. The ruling families have intermarried but the king of Baires disinherited his first-born, Tashir, because it was widely believed he was the son of the Queen's uncle, a mage from Lineas. Now the entire royal family of Baires is dead except for Tashir, shredded to bits inside the palace, and a Herald from Valdemar, Lores, thinks it's Tashir's doing. Tashir has exhibited some magic and he's the only survivor. It's Tashir's new Companion's distress that they heard, as Lores thinks he's a demon and is whipping him.
Vanyel rescues the boy, who looks scarily like his long-dead life-bonded love, Tylendel, and whisks him off to the family estate while he and Savil try to figure out what really happened.
The character development of the first book is something that really impressed me, and it continues here. Vanyel, older now but still fairly young, has experienced a lot but still has much to learn - about himself, about love and life. He's isolated himself, and is often confused and angry and hurt, but he's definitely more mature and better able to deal with other people - in short, he's the same Vanyel, just more weathered. And still changing. I can't help but feel for the poor man, and want a bit of happiness to go his way, for his loneliness comes through clearly and painfully.
Lackey's infamous habit of italicising very second word doesn't become any less irritating, and italics are hard to block out, especially when used so liberally (it always makes me think of L.M. Montgomery's Emily of New Moon, who was told by her grumpy teacher to stop using italics in her writing). Other than that, I enjoy her writing style and I love her characters.
The world, while it has a narrow focus and often vague details, feels strong and real because of the prose, and because the story focuses so much on Van and his inner angst. "Angst" is such a bad word, I know, but you'll empathise with Vanyel; it's hard not to. He's a moody lad, broods too much, and doesn't always stand up for himself when he should - like with poor Melenna - but he has a nice balance of decisiveness, courage, self-torment and humbleness, that makes him familiar yet new.
The plot is a little tricky to follow at times because, as with the previous book, you're thrown in with an assumed prior knowledge that, while it makes the world feel very real, does make you fall behind the characters at times. But it's a matter of faith, I think: things do come clear, though the minor characters got a bit muddled in my head and a map would be really really helpful with this trilogy. Now, let's just hope it doesn't take me another year to read the last book, or I'll forget what happened to Tylendel all over again!
September 22, 2021
Another comfortable read, and one I really enjoyed. This is a great book about feelings, and especially about repairing relationships with friends, with family, and also within yourself.
Unsurprisingly given what I've said above, the story makes use of one of my favourite tropes, the rehabilitation of previously unpleasant characters. So satisfying!
Unsurprisingly given what I've said above, the story makes use of one of my favourite tropes, the rehabilitation of previously unpleasant characters. So satisfying!
July 24, 2013
(Spoilers for Magic's Pawn, discussion of child sexual abuse.)
Ugh, guys, this book had such a good chance of being - maybe not brilliant, but the kind of decent, entertaining medieval fantasy that got me into Mercedes Lackey's books eleven years ago. Rereading Magic's Promise for probably only the fifth or sixth time, I was completely invested in the characters, interested in the plot, embarrassed to be seen with that cover... and also I kept having to cover my face and hide. Because this is possibly the most homophobic book that I have ever loved with my whole heart.
No, really.
Because Mercedes Lackey gets a lot of credit for including gay characters in her works, and that's great. Ylsa and Karen from Arrows of the Queen were probably the first gay characters I ever read, and as a little ten-year-old trying to figure out her sexual orientation, I completely idolized Vanyel. (Looking back, that was probably one of the least healthy decisions I could have made, but whatever.) But the way that she goes about writing those characters is, at least in this trilogy, informed by a completely misbegotten sense of how gay people actually act.
If Magic's Pawn has an overarching theme of "gay people exist and that's okay," Magic's Promise covers Vanyel's struggles with his sexual orientation. His main concern seems to be whether he's actually gay, given that he has strong feelings for his friend (and, coincidentally, ) Shavri. I'm honestly not sure what Lackey was going for here - whether we're supposed to believe that he's bi, also a little bit in love with her or, as he seems to conclude, just very strongly committed to their friendship. The subplot with Shavri could have (maybe?) been handled so that it was poignant or meaningful in some way, but instead Vanyel just had unspecified ~feelings~ for her that he couldn't work out, and though he didn't seem to have any sort of sexual or romantic attraction to her he worried that those feelings might invalidate his sexual orientation. I'm not really sure what was going on, and honestly, every time Shavri came up I wanted to scream "please not this again!"
The other problem Vanyel came up against was, of course, all of the teenage boys trying to sleep with him.
I really wish I were kidding, guys. Because apparently if you're a gay super-powerful 28-year-old wizard, the straight teenage boys are throwing themselves at you. Two different teenage boys, otherwise known as all of the teenage boys in the story, offer to have sex with Vanyel, one in exchange for music lessons and the other one because he is scared and confused. In the first instance, Vanyel says no and is horrified, and the text assures us that "It was not even a temptation." And you say to yourself, "Good, because being gay is different from being a child molester, and even in the 80's that was really basic."
Then you cope with a few more people assuming that he's sleeping with boys, and I was willing to put up with that, because Vanyel was obviously as disgusted by that idea as I was.
And then the second boy to proposition him looks just like his deceased lover (why was that necessary?) and he's ~tempted??? I know that this was written in the 80's, but even in that context it's horrifying to suggest that gay people will sleep with teenagers they have power over just because those teenagers resemble their lover. Really. Maybe this is just meant to show how dysfunctional Vanyel is where sex is concerned - at other points in the book, he talks about how he can't have relationships with other adults because he tries to turn those relationships into the relationship he had with Tylendel. But even if that's the intent, I think it was irresponsible to play into the trope that gay people molest children, especially given that Lackey was obviously aware of it. She was obviously trying to be inclusive and helpful with this trilogy, and I think she could have done better.
Another thing that has been bothering me more about Mercedes Lackey's books as I've gotten older is that while she's willing to have gay characters as good people, she tends disproportionately toward writing evil, sexually predatory, usually bisexual men as villains. It came up only once in this book, when there was a guy mentioned in passing who was gay but slimy and reminded Vanyel of the last book's Scuzzy Gay Villain, but given that Vanyel had a moment of panic about it - "If I'm really gay, why wasn't I attracted to Creepazoid over there???" - it started to feel weird.
Mercedes Lackey's gay men seem to be divided into the ones who are Basically Good And Resist Temptation From Teenage Boys and those who are Bad And Hurt People And Don't Try At All. Being gay in Valdemar seems to be mostly a matter of determining whether you allow your sexuality to hurt other people, as opposed to if you're straight, in which case you get to go about and have a normal life. That's a disappointing thing to find in a series that I adored when I was just starting to come out.
Ugh, guys, this book had such a good chance of being - maybe not brilliant, but the kind of decent, entertaining medieval fantasy that got me into Mercedes Lackey's books eleven years ago. Rereading Magic's Promise for probably only the fifth or sixth time, I was completely invested in the characters, interested in the plot, embarrassed to be seen with that cover... and also I kept having to cover my face and hide. Because this is possibly the most homophobic book that I have ever loved with my whole heart.
No, really.
Because Mercedes Lackey gets a lot of credit for including gay characters in her works, and that's great. Ylsa and Karen from Arrows of the Queen were probably the first gay characters I ever read, and as a little ten-year-old trying to figure out her sexual orientation, I completely idolized Vanyel. (Looking back, that was probably one of the least healthy decisions I could have made, but whatever.) But the way that she goes about writing those characters is, at least in this trilogy, informed by a completely misbegotten sense of how gay people actually act.
If Magic's Pawn has an overarching theme of "gay people exist and that's okay," Magic's Promise covers Vanyel's struggles with his sexual orientation. His main concern seems to be whether he's actually gay, given that he has strong feelings for his friend (and, coincidentally, ) Shavri. I'm honestly not sure what Lackey was going for here - whether we're supposed to believe that he's bi, also a little bit in love with her or, as he seems to conclude, just very strongly committed to their friendship. The subplot with Shavri could have (maybe?) been handled so that it was poignant or meaningful in some way, but instead Vanyel just had unspecified ~feelings~ for her that he couldn't work out, and though he didn't seem to have any sort of sexual or romantic attraction to her he worried that those feelings might invalidate his sexual orientation. I'm not really sure what was going on, and honestly, every time Shavri came up I wanted to scream "please not this again!"
The other problem Vanyel came up against was, of course, all of the teenage boys trying to sleep with him.
I really wish I were kidding, guys. Because apparently if you're a gay super-powerful 28-year-old wizard, the straight teenage boys are throwing themselves at you. Two different teenage boys, otherwise known as all of the teenage boys in the story, offer to have sex with Vanyel, one in exchange for music lessons and the other one because he is scared and confused. In the first instance, Vanyel says no and is horrified, and the text assures us that "It was not even a temptation." And you say to yourself, "Good, because being gay is different from being a child molester, and even in the 80's that was really basic."
Then you cope with a few more people assuming that he's sleeping with boys, and I was willing to put up with that, because Vanyel was obviously as disgusted by that idea as I was.
And then the second boy to proposition him looks just like his deceased lover (why was that necessary?) and he's ~tempted??? I know that this was written in the 80's, but even in that context it's horrifying to suggest that gay people will sleep with teenagers they have power over just because those teenagers resemble their lover. Really. Maybe this is just meant to show how dysfunctional Vanyel is where sex is concerned - at other points in the book, he talks about how he can't have relationships with other adults because he tries to turn those relationships into the relationship he had with Tylendel. But even if that's the intent, I think it was irresponsible to play into the trope that gay people molest children, especially given that Lackey was obviously aware of it. She was obviously trying to be inclusive and helpful with this trilogy, and I think she could have done better.
Another thing that has been bothering me more about Mercedes Lackey's books as I've gotten older is that while she's willing to have gay characters as good people, she tends disproportionately toward writing evil, sexually predatory, usually bisexual men as villains. It came up only once in this book, when there was a guy mentioned in passing who was gay but slimy and reminded Vanyel of the last book's Scuzzy Gay Villain, but given that Vanyel had a moment of panic about it - "If I'm really gay, why wasn't I attracted to Creepazoid over there???" - it started to feel weird.
Mercedes Lackey's gay men seem to be divided into the ones who are Basically Good And Resist Temptation From Teenage Boys and those who are Bad And Hurt People And Don't Try At All. Being gay in Valdemar seems to be mostly a matter of determining whether you allow your sexuality to hurt other people, as opposed to if you're straight, in which case you get to go about and have a normal life. That's a disappointing thing to find in a series that I adored when I was just starting to come out.
November 2, 2021
The character development of Vanyel from the beginning of the first book is phenomenal and in a convincing and absorbing way. He is now one of the very few Herald-Mages available to defend Valdemar and is totally depleted after years on the front line. This story unfolds while he is taking a break and recovering his strength. The end of story resolution of this book’s arc was a very satisfying one
March 1, 2020
I was actually a little apprehensive to read this (particularly since I borrowed the Polish translation from the library) for how dated it would possibly feel.
The first volume definitely felt like a book that can only be fully appreciated by a teen, or someone well in touch with their inner teen. It was so angsty and emo, each feeling of the protagonist turned up to twenty, little filter. I mostly expected more of the same - but this volume is, as far as I can tell, having read volume 1 a couple of years ago, quite different. Vanyel is older and more world-weary. The book is divided into two more or less distinct parts.
Part one is Vanyel travelling back home and experiencing a lot of classic "I am queer and my family is so straight it hurts and they're all more or less homophobic" moments - mom that tries to set Vanyel up with girls, girls that throw themselves at Vanyel to "cure" him, father that suspects Vanyel of being into young boys, family priest who hates him - all that jazz. There's some emotional resonance there, some cringe-worthy moments and some well-rendered ones, but overall, I thought it a bit of a snoozefest.
And then there's part two, for which part one sets the stage and builds foreshadowing, which is suddenly a murder mystery wrapped in a family scandal hidden inside a plot to damage a whole swath of more than one country. I don't want to spoil too much, but while the pacing is still a little off, the mystery and solution to the events is engrossing and fun - and the ending of the book, which sets up the trilogy's concluding volume, was enough to make me go locate the ebook.
(In other news, for those who are interested in such things, Vanyel is written quite consistently as demisexual.)
The first volume definitely felt like a book that can only be fully appreciated by a teen, or someone well in touch with their inner teen. It was so angsty and emo, each feeling of the protagonist turned up to twenty, little filter. I mostly expected more of the same - but this volume is, as far as I can tell, having read volume 1 a couple of years ago, quite different. Vanyel is older and more world-weary. The book is divided into two more or less distinct parts.
Part one is Vanyel travelling back home and experiencing a lot of classic "I am queer and my family is so straight it hurts and they're all more or less homophobic" moments - mom that tries to set Vanyel up with girls, girls that throw themselves at Vanyel to "cure" him, father that suspects Vanyel of being into young boys, family priest who hates him - all that jazz. There's some emotional resonance there, some cringe-worthy moments and some well-rendered ones, but overall, I thought it a bit of a snoozefest.
And then there's part two, for which part one sets the stage and builds foreshadowing, which is suddenly a murder mystery wrapped in a family scandal hidden inside a plot to damage a whole swath of more than one country. I don't want to spoil too much, but while the pacing is still a little off, the mystery and solution to the events is engrossing and fun - and the ending of the book, which sets up the trilogy's concluding volume, was enough to make me go locate the ebook.
(In other news, for those who are interested in such things, Vanyel is written quite consistently as demisexual.)
December 15, 2021
I had completely forgotten what happens in this novel. This is really Vanyel growing up and finally moving past the pain he's been stuck in. He's done his duty, but found no joy in those around him. He's been alone a long time now and the circumstances of this story really make him face the isolation that he inflicts on himself.
I liked how Vanyel was forced to look out for someone else and it formed bonds he didn't want to acknowledge at first. His nephew reminds him so much of himself and it triggers past issues he hadn't dealt with. I loved how his relationship with Jarvis changed in this story. Tashir also passed along wisdom wise beyond his years that Vanyel had to come to grips with.
There was a fair bit of action in this one as Vanyel seeks to solve the problems along the border before they can spill over into Valdemar. But really this story does what is needed to pull Vanyel into the present and make him a stronger man ready for a little hope in the future. He's a man who deserves a little joy for himself even if he's unsure he should get it.
I liked how Vanyel was forced to look out for someone else and it formed bonds he didn't want to acknowledge at first. His nephew reminds him so much of himself and it triggers past issues he hadn't dealt with. I loved how his relationship with Jarvis changed in this story. Tashir also passed along wisdom wise beyond his years that Vanyel had to come to grips with.
There was a fair bit of action in this one as Vanyel seeks to solve the problems along the border before they can spill over into Valdemar. But really this story does what is needed to pull Vanyel into the present and make him a stronger man ready for a little hope in the future. He's a man who deserves a little joy for himself even if he's unsure he should get it.
November 1, 2018
Re-read 2018
I'm dipping into some of my favorite books to take a break from my more serious reading for college classes. Vanyel and his lousy luck are one of my favorite things to read about. It makes things I'm going through seem not as bad.
Re-read 2017
I love Van and the journey he takes to adulthood and being one of the main Heralds in Valdemar. I do feel bad for everything he has to go through to try to save his country.
I'm dipping into some of my favorite books to take a break from my more serious reading for college classes. Vanyel and his lousy luck are one of my favorite things to read about. It makes things I'm going through seem not as bad.
Re-read 2017
I love Van and the journey he takes to adulthood and being one of the main Heralds in Valdemar. I do feel bad for everything he has to go through to try to save his country.
December 3, 2021
Vanyel is beyond exhausted. It’s years after the end of book one, and he’s been at the Border, fighting other mages and wearing himself and Yfandes out. Lackey brings Vanyel back to his family's home and then proceeds to upend Vanyel's (and my) perceptions and beliefs about a particular character, and totally changes what his relationship with this character--very skilfully done.
December 9, 2018
Final Rating: 4/5
Well, while the second book is definitely not on the murder spree of my emotions (thankfully) like the first one was, it took on an actual murder spree mystery with around 50 dead - a royal family massacred, with a disinherited prince left the only one alive, second royal family, a very greedy uncle, a family reunion long incoming, vacations and assassinations attempts, also demons. Also did I mention Shadow-lover aka death? "They" are there too.
A wild ride yes.
It was once again a book that held my attention completely and utterly, but there were some things that, more or less, pissed me off, but it was also solved eventually, but mostly it's the prejudices about Vanyel's sexual orientation. It gets discussed at with length (but then there is also the fact that Van's moral compass and his emotions are a shambled mess SO I WAS LITERALLY screaming in my mind because SO CLOSE.)
The ending of this book redeemed everything, and I was left very satisfied, but some things i kind of want to forget...
Twelve years passed, and in the meantime we discover:
► there is a war on the border with Karsite;
►Vanyel is now the strongest Herald-Mage there is because of his power and the fact that he alone can substitute 5 Heralds on the battlefield; and more or less almost half of the heralds they had are dead; and the more people he loses, the more alone he feels.
►a new king on the throne of Valdemar - Randale, his chosen partner Shavri and their daughter Jisa (), and the very very horrifying fact that Randale is sick and may not live past 50.
►and a new possible border war on the border with Lineas because the royal families are making a mess there.
► and a long incoming vacation Vanyel definitely deserves, except he decides that the only place he could go - is his home.
A lot of feelings get sorted out, family relationships get mended (or not), there are still many prejudices and suggestions and implications that even Vanyel was sick of them - because there are still some of family members that hold him in different regard to others.
Vanyel has a lot of feelings to sort out, as I have mentioned before, because:
1) he's still not over Tylendel, not in any way and it's enough to screw him over,
2) people seem to think they know what's the best for him and what he desires and have a go at him without even asking him about it, meaning they believe that anyone would do for him, as long as it's male gender which is quite disturbing to Van himself and pisses him off, ;
3) his feelings over the older weapons-master Jervis that abused him as a child, ;
4) his feelings over Mekeal's bastard child Medren who is Bardic Gifted and is definitely not getting the education of what he deserves cause no one in the family could actually sense his Gift, as he seems a bit of himself in him; ;
5) his feelings over his best friends Shavri and Randale, especially toward Shavri that he ends up questioning whether he is bi or gay or something entirely else; ;
6) his feelings of duty towards the people of Valdemar, even when he's aware that he is still somewhat suicidal, yet is careful enough because a lot of people are actually very VERY dependent on him and his protection.
7) he actually get's to explore what being an actual actor is being like, and it was amazing to read. Honestly, he could pass as a real person!
8) He is much more lighter, willing to laugh and joke around (and give me 10 years of my life back that I lost in the first book) and is generally much more willing to stand up and defend both himself and others.
Savil is present as well, and decides that now, more than ever, Vanyel needs help with passing his vacation with their family, so she goes to make sure Withen doesn't cross any lines and make attempt to severly hurt her own son, even if Vanyel is not really her own. She knows Withen made a mistake the moment he sent Van to her, because that's when she became Van's substitute mother, better than he could ever hope for, and she won't allow Withen or anyone else ever getting near breaking the hope and life that she finally sees in Vanyel. The loss of all the people she cared for in the recent war, mainly those she was responsible for for teaching and Van is the only one left.
Yfandes is as wonderful and caring as ever, providing emotional support, giving wonderful advices and finally getting treated like a lady she is and she deserves to be. Even when she is a Companion horse, unlike ordinary horses, thank you very much.
Medren is Meleena's and Mekeal's child, and therefore, while he is considered a part of their family, he doesn't actually have any future in the keep, with his status and all, and yet when a chance presents itself to get himself off from the bottom, he takes it and doesn't let go.
The rest of Ashkevron family is almost the same as before, minus the uncontrolable loathing, envy and abuse. The change is the best seen in Withen, who for once, actually appreciates the fact that his oldest son is now a very important person to both kingdom and their protection, but yet he is still his old homophobic self which is... kind of hard to change.
Jervis, whose feelings get him to test Vanyel as much as possible: to confirm what he thought and to sort out his feelings over the man he once trained, or more likely abused. And this all has to be sorted out, before something happens that can't be taken back. And I was surprised, I was surprised with the outcome of this particular frenemies relationship between Van and Jer.
Could have done without some parts, but it's still a very good book with a good murder mystery, excellent ending and lot's of feelings being resolved through the book.
But this book did suffer the "bridge book of trilogy" syndrome, which is why 1 star less, as it didn't really contribute much to the main problem, but it turns out to be the third book itself, so I am ready for the pain :P.
And there is almost to none romance here, firstly because Vanyel has a very hard time trusting people on that, and secondly cause there was no time for it. Literally.
⚠ TYPE OF SERIES: series
⚠ Point of View:third pov, multiply
⚠ Cliffhanger: no
⚠ Triggers: child abuse, incest - the reason for the disinherited prince, suicidal thoughts (but mildly), minced meat (i'm not joking around), sheep jokes,
⚠ Love triangle: no
⚠ Angst: 50%
⚠ Supernatural: add demons to the mix
⚠ Explicit content: nope
◈ Magic's Pawn (Valdemar: Last Herald-Mage #1)
◈ Magic's Promise (Valdemar: Last Herald-Mage #2)
◈ Magic's Price (Valdemar: Last Herald-Mage #3)
Then I sang you a love song. The first one I ever sang for you. It was the first time I’d ever sung one with my heart in it.
Well, while the second book is definitely not on the murder spree of my emotions (thankfully) like the first one was, it took on an actual murder spree mystery with around 50 dead - a royal family massacred, with a disinherited prince left the only one alive, second royal family, a very greedy uncle, a family reunion long incoming, vacations and assassinations attempts, also demons. Also did I mention Shadow-lover aka death? "They" are there too.
A wild ride yes.
It was once again a book that held my attention completely and utterly, but there were some things that, more or less, pissed me off, but it was also solved eventually, but mostly it's the prejudices about Vanyel's sexual orientation. It gets discussed at with length (but then there is also the fact that Van's moral compass and his emotions are a shambled mess SO I WAS LITERALLY screaming in my mind because SO CLOSE.)
The ending of this book redeemed everything, and I was left very satisfied, but some things i kind of want to forget...
►►► STORY & CHARACTERS:
Twelve years passed, and in the meantime we discover:
► there is a war on the border with Karsite;
►Vanyel is now the strongest Herald-Mage there is because of his power and the fact that he alone can substitute 5 Heralds on the battlefield; and more or less almost half of the heralds they had are dead; and the more people he loses, the more alone he feels.
►a new king on the throne of Valdemar - Randale, his chosen partner Shavri and their daughter Jisa (), and the very very horrifying fact that Randale is sick and may not live past 50.
►and a new possible border war on the border with Lineas because the royal families are making a mess there.
► and a long incoming vacation Vanyel definitely deserves, except he decides that the only place he could go - is his home.
A lot of feelings get sorted out, family relationships get mended (or not), there are still many prejudices and suggestions and implications that even Vanyel was sick of them - because there are still some of family members that hold him in different regard to others.
Tall Jaysen (who always looked bleached, somehow) was half-sprawled on her couch, but he rose at Vanyel’s entrance—then did a double take, and staggered back a step, hand theatrically clutched to his chest.
“My heart!” he choked. “Savil, look at your nephew! Barefoot, shaggy-headed, and shabby! Where in Havens has our peacock gone?”
“He got lost somewhere south of Horn,” Vanyel replied. “I last saw him in a tavern singing trios with my mind and my wits. I haven’t seen either of them in a while, either.”
Vanyel has a lot of feelings to sort out, as I have mentioned before, because:
1) he's still not over Tylendel, not in any way and it's enough to screw him over,
2) people seem to think they know what's the best for him and what he desires and have a go at him without even asking him about it, meaning they believe that anyone would do for him, as long as it's male gender which is quite disturbing to Van himself and pisses him off, ;
3) his feelings over the older weapons-master Jervis that abused him as a child, ;
4) his feelings over Mekeal's bastard child Medren who is Bardic Gifted and is definitely not getting the education of what he deserves cause no one in the family could actually sense his Gift, as he seems a bit of himself in him; ;
5) his feelings over his best friends Shavri and Randale, especially toward Shavri that he ends up questioning whether he is bi or gay or something entirely else; ;
6) his feelings of duty towards the people of Valdemar, even when he's aware that he is still somewhat suicidal, yet is careful enough because a lot of people are actually very VERY dependent on him and his protection.
7) he actually get's to explore what being an actual actor is being like, and it was amazing to read. Honestly, he could pass as a real person!
8) He is much more lighter, willing to laugh and joke around (and give me 10 years of my life back that I lost in the first book) and is generally much more willing to stand up and defend both himself and others.
“You look like hell,” said a rough voice just above his head.
What an amazing coincidence, Savil, Vanyel thought without opening his eyes. I feel like hell.
Savil is present as well, and decides that now, more than ever, Vanyel needs help with passing his vacation with their family, so she goes to make sure Withen doesn't cross any lines and make attempt to severly hurt her own son, even if Vanyel is not really her own. She knows Withen made a mistake the moment he sent Van to her, because that's when she became Van's substitute mother, better than he could ever hope for, and she won't allow Withen or anyone else ever getting near breaking the hope and life that she finally sees in Vanyel. The loss of all the people she cared for in the recent war, mainly those she was responsible for for teaching and Van is the only one left.
:Enlighten me, I need ammunition.:
Yfandes is as wonderful and caring as ever, providing emotional support, giving wonderful advices and finally getting treated like a lady she is and she deserves to be. Even when she is a Companion horse, unlike ordinary horses, thank you very much.
But Withen never seemed to grasp that Yfandes was exactly what his son said she was; a brilliant, thinking, creative lady, with all of a great lady’s manners and daintiness, who just happened to be living in a horse’s body.
Medren is Meleena's and Mekeal's child, and therefore, while he is considered a part of their family, he doesn't actually have any future in the keep, with his status and all, and yet when a chance presents itself to get himself off from the bottom, he takes it and doesn't let go.
The rest of Ashkevron family is almost the same as before, minus the uncontrolable loathing, envy and abuse. The change is the best seen in Withen, who for once, actually appreciates the fact that his oldest son is now a very important person to both kingdom and their protection, but yet he is still his old homophobic self which is... kind of hard to change.
Jervis, whose feelings get him to test Vanyel as much as possible: to confirm what he thought and to sort out his feelings over the man he once trained, or more likely abused. And this all has to be sorted out, before something happens that can't be taken back. And I was surprised, I was surprised with the outcome of this particular frenemies relationship between Van and Jer.
►►► OVERALL:
“I think you’ll do just fine. Now—does that solve all the problems?”
Because I’m about to run out of brilliant ideas, energy, and the ability to hold off pain.
Could have done without some parts, but it's still a very good book with a good murder mystery, excellent ending and lot's of feelings being resolved through the book.
But this book did suffer the "bridge book of trilogy" syndrome, which is why 1 star less, as it didn't really contribute much to the main problem, but it turns out to be the third book itself, so I am ready for the pain :P.
And there is almost to none romance here, firstly because Vanyel has a very hard time trusting people on that, and secondly cause there was no time for it. Literally.
►►► OTHER IMPORTANT INFO:
⚠ TYPE OF SERIES: series
⚠ Point of View:third pov, multiply
⚠ Cliffhanger: no
⚠ Triggers: child abuse, incest - the reason for the disinherited prince, suicidal thoughts (but mildly), minced meat (i'm not joking around), sheep jokes,
⚠ Love triangle: no
⚠ Angst: 50%
⚠ Supernatural: add demons to the mix
⚠ Explicit content: nope
►►► REVIEW(S) RELATED TO THIS BOOK:
◈ Magic's Pawn (Valdemar: Last Herald-Mage #1)
◈ Magic's Promise (Valdemar: Last Herald-Mage #2)
◈ Magic's Price (Valdemar: Last Herald-Mage #3)
December 17, 2022
A big time jump from the previous book sees Vanyel 12 years older, a full-grown man at the height of his powers, and a very different, more experienced character. This is a more mature book overall, and now that Vanyel is closer to my age I related to him more -- if not as a mage, then as a gay man. I don't know anything about Lackey's personal life or who her friends and family are, but she clearly understands something fundamental about being a gay man in society, and she articulates it in a way I rarely see even gay male authors do. The book tackles some heavy themes you wouldn't expect to find in a fantasy story , but Lackey does it with an admirable deftness. She balances a lot in this book. The result is funny, surprising, and ultimately uplifting.
Now I'll do something I rarely do with series: I'm plunging directly into book 3 to finish out the trilogy uninterrupted. I want to see where it goes.
Now I'll do something I rarely do with series: I'm plunging directly into book 3 to finish out the trilogy uninterrupted. I want to see where it goes.
March 29, 2014
Magic's Promise is definitely the weakest of the Last Herald-Mage Trilogy. I think that's because it is primarily a book tying up the loose ends of book one (such as Jervis and Father Leren) while setting up book three (establishing why Vanyel becomes distant from almost everyone, the growing chasm between "ordinary" Heralds and Herald-Mages).
There are some incredibly well-done moments--this is still a strong Lackey book (and head and shoulders above the current disasters set in this world). In particular the scene where Vanyel and Jervis have it out is powerful--the raw emotions and tension are written so deftly you feel both sides, rather than just taking Van's. I like the resolution--both in that moment and the way it plays out in the future.
That said, there are weak plot points as well. That Tashir and his uncle Vedric look like Tylendel is an unnecessary plot point. If that were changed, the story would be the same, and the same events could play out. I also wasn't crazy about the Vanyel questioning his sexuality story-line. His preference is well established in book 1, and while I'd love more bisexuals in pop culture (as I am one) it just felt off.
I still give it a five out of five--I think of it as a solid if not mind blowing middle chunk to a favorite story. I always read the trilogy in full, so in my mind it's like one larger novel that's broken into three pieces.
There are some incredibly well-done moments--this is still a strong Lackey book (and head and shoulders above the current disasters set in this world). In particular the scene where Vanyel and Jervis have it out is powerful--the raw emotions and tension are written so deftly you feel both sides, rather than just taking Van's. I like the resolution--both in that moment and the way it plays out in the future.
That said, there are weak plot points as well. That Tashir and his uncle Vedric look like Tylendel is an unnecessary plot point. If that were changed, the story would be the same, and the same events could play out. I also wasn't crazy about the Vanyel questioning his sexuality story-line. His preference is well established in book 1, and while I'd love more bisexuals in pop culture (as I am one) it just felt off.
I still give it a five out of five--I think of it as a solid if not mind blowing middle chunk to a favorite story. I always read the trilogy in full, so in my mind it's like one larger novel that's broken into three pieces.
June 1, 2019
4.5 stars.
Reviewed after re-reading.
The character growth definitely continues in this book and this trilogy’s second volume feels very congruent with its first. Vanyel has grown into his power just in time to aid in the defense of Valdemar as peace retreats. But after years of aiding in this defense he is exhausted both magically physically and emotionally and heads for a long visit with his family and a chance to rest. But this forces him to deal not only with his continuing ambivalence about his sexuality but also with strained family dynamics and the fact that as his power and the legends of his deeds have grown he has become more and more estranged from society.
The writing is solid and familiar they’re not particularly spectacular and there are a few problematic moments, somewhat more forgivable considering that this book was written in the 80s, but this book is a great example of how to take a character we encounter initially as a teenage boy and show him as a grown-up without changing so much of the characters identity that they become unrecognizable.
Reviewed after re-reading.
The character growth definitely continues in this book and this trilogy’s second volume feels very congruent with its first. Vanyel has grown into his power just in time to aid in the defense of Valdemar as peace retreats. But after years of aiding in this defense he is exhausted both magically physically and emotionally and heads for a long visit with his family and a chance to rest. But this forces him to deal not only with his continuing ambivalence about his sexuality but also with strained family dynamics and the fact that as his power and the legends of his deeds have grown he has become more and more estranged from society.
The writing is solid and familiar they’re not particularly spectacular and there are a few problematic moments, somewhat more forgivable considering that this book was written in the 80s, but this book is a great example of how to take a character we encounter initially as a teenage boy and show him as a grown-up without changing so much of the characters identity that they become unrecognizable.
July 15, 2018
The second volume of a trilogy always has big shoes to fill, to maintain the energy of the first book, keep the momentum of the story rolling into the third book, and yet leave the reader satisfied that the second is a complete story rather than just a lead-in to the third.
This book picks up 12 years after the first book, when Herald-Mage Vaneyl grown into his potential, but remains heartsore over his lost lover, exhausted by his own deeds in defense of his country, and emotionally wrung out over the fear and awe his own legend inspires in everyone he meets. He remains a solitary figure, in heart, mind, and power. This book, while it boasts a fairly convoluted mystery plot, is mostly focused on character development, as Vaneyl probes his own heart and the limitations of friendship, duty, and grief.
Onward to book three, then, to watch the Third Act.
This book picks up 12 years after the first book, when Herald-Mage Vaneyl grown into his potential, but remains heartsore over his lost lover, exhausted by his own deeds in defense of his country, and emotionally wrung out over the fear and awe his own legend inspires in everyone he meets. He remains a solitary figure, in heart, mind, and power. This book, while it boasts a fairly convoluted mystery plot, is mostly focused on character development, as Vaneyl probes his own heart and the limitations of friendship, duty, and grief.
Onward to book three, then, to watch the Third Act.
July 7, 2021
This is the second in The Last Herald Mage series and while it used to be my least favourite of the three it has grown on me. This is the only one in the three with no romantic narrative and a large portion of it occurs back at Vanyel's familial home, Forst Reach.
Having to deal with incidents that erupt on the border keeps Vanyel's home visit more exciting than he had anticipated or needed. I really like the border situation, basically it is hard to review this book for me - I have read it so many times.
The series as a whole is maybe a bit shmaltzy by modern day standards, it is kind of new-age meets sword and sorcery but they are fun comfort reads for me every time.
Having to deal with incidents that erupt on the border keeps Vanyel's home visit more exciting than he had anticipated or needed. I really like the border situation, basically it is hard to review this book for me - I have read it so many times.
The series as a whole is maybe a bit shmaltzy by modern day standards, it is kind of new-age meets sword and sorcery but they are fun comfort reads for me every time.
January 6, 2014
Easily the best book of the trilogy; the relationships here felt the most genuine, the plot unfurled organically rather than being tacked on in the last thirty pages, and sometimes it's nice to read about a main character who's just really awesome at a lot of things. Many of the problems I had with the first book where also present in Magic's Promise, but my least favorite elements of the first book (the romance, the Hawkbrothers, and the "Powerful Enemy From Out Of Nowhere") were not present in this book, so it was easy to forgive smaller things.
May 15, 2023
Audio: (5) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
& Story: (5) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh My Goddess, this book had one hell of a time-skip!!! 12 YEARS!? Van is 28 now, I could not believe it! My sweet teenage baby is now a grown-ass man, that's seen some shit. A battle-tested mage that can fight with the best of them, but still carries hurts from long ago. This book was so cathartic compared to the previous one, but still terribly tragic. Van is older now, and finally able to stand up for himself and is no longer taking criticism from anyone. Even though all Van wants is the sweet embrace of death, his duty and friends keep him tethered and fighting for Valdemar.
Even though I'm relieved that Van was able to reconcile with most of his family, it pains me to see him struggle so much. He's a character that you just want to be happy, but it always seems to allude him. I don't know what to expect in the final book of this trilogy but I hope somehow, some way – that Van finds a sliver of happiness. Even if it's just a micro-joy, give him something.
& Story: (5) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh My Goddess, this book had one hell of a time-skip!!! 12 YEARS!? Van is 28 now, I could not believe it! My sweet teenage baby is now a grown-ass man, that's seen some shit. A battle-tested mage that can fight with the best of them, but still carries hurts from long ago. This book was so cathartic compared to the previous one, but still terribly tragic. Van is older now, and finally able to stand up for himself and is no longer taking criticism from anyone. Even though all Van wants is the sweet embrace of death, his duty and friends keep him tethered and fighting for Valdemar.
Even though I'm relieved that Van was able to reconcile with most of his family, it pains me to see him struggle so much. He's a character that you just want to be happy, but it always seems to allude him. I don't know what to expect in the final book of this trilogy but I hope somehow, some way – that Van finds a sliver of happiness. Even if it's just a micro-joy, give him something.
October 10, 2022
Book 2 is as good as book 1. This series continues to stun me at how ahead of its time it was, especially in dealing with terms of sexuality and identity. Although it most definitely has court intrigue and magic battles, it really is more about navigating families, and finding a place of truth and acceptance within them.
Recommended.
Recommended.
August 29, 2017
I love it.
Vanyel and Yfandes are pushing my buttons so hard. I just want wrap Van up in a warm blanket, give him some hot chocolate and hug him. He made me cry when he talked/thought about his grief about 'Lendel and his loneliness (and I really don't cry easily while reading books).
I really liked the first part of the story with Van getting some rest and meeting up with his family and finding some surprises, being able to let things go, having some old hurts starting to heal - even though he found some new hurts too. :(
The second half with trying to find out what happened with Tashir? The desperate ride into the night in order to try and save two Companions and a Chosen from peril? Wow. I held my breath for long parts while reading it and urged 'Fandes to go faster and Van to do his shielding faster. And then, the "end fight"? Oh, Van. *hugs him so much*
I like that Van had to question himself on who he is and who he loves. That he finds out that, for himself, love and friendship go hand in hand. That you can love a friend and that a lover is also a friend.
Sometimes there have been events referred to that I didn't know about. Maybe they come up in other books? I don't know. But, sometimes I felt a bit lost in that regard.
Also, I'm kind of scared to start reading the third book. I'm so scared for Van - for the losses and hurts that will be in his future and I'm so scared that he'll get killed. :( I mean, The Shadow Lover and Jas hinted that there will be someone for Van and therefore that there is some hope - but still. I'm scared.
Vanyel and Yfandes are pushing my buttons so hard. I just want wrap Van up in a warm blanket, give him some hot chocolate and hug him. He made me cry when he talked/thought about his grief about 'Lendel and his loneliness (and I really don't cry easily while reading books).
I really liked the first part of the story with Van getting some rest and meeting up with his family and finding some surprises, being able to let things go, having some old hurts starting to heal - even though he found some new hurts too. :(
The second half with trying to find out what happened with Tashir? The desperate ride into the night in order to try and save two Companions and a Chosen from peril? Wow. I held my breath for long parts while reading it and urged 'Fandes to go faster and Van to do his shielding faster. And then, the "end fight"? Oh, Van. *hugs him so much*
I like that Van had to question himself on who he is and who he loves. That he finds out that, for himself, love and friendship go hand in hand. That you can love a friend and that a lover is also a friend.
Sometimes there have been events referred to that I didn't know about. Maybe they come up in other books? I don't know. But, sometimes I felt a bit lost in that regard.
Also, I'm kind of scared to start reading the third book. I'm so scared for Van - for the losses and hurts that will be in his future and I'm so scared that he'll get killed. :( I mean, The Shadow Lover and Jas hinted that there will be someone for Van and therefore that there is some hope - but still. I'm scared.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2012
This is what magick is supposed to be all about. Saving the world. Things that explode without reason. People who finally realize their full potential. Youngsters who grow up to be valiant adults, and get their due kudos from those who used to scorn them. The revenge for having been treated poorly? To live fully and be good and happy.
I adore the language in this book, it is so uplifting, even in the parts where everything goes to hell with a bang. And the humor is outstanding, listen to this, said about our Herald-Mage:
"They are a lot more worried that—oh—a bird will crap on you and you'll level the palace." Of course, he had just returned from years in combat zones, and was slightly, shall we say, gun-shy? Yeah.
And then Ms Lackey goes on to paint me pictures, like
"Birds chirped news at each other right outside his window."
Or this, when Vanyel hears Yfandes' voice in his head:
"Yfandes' mind-voice was yellow and effervescent with amusement."
And then she describes Vanyels sadness thus:
"He found himself smiling, a smile with tears on the edge of it, but smiling."
Brilliant language. It tastes good. Fabulous world-construction. I think we can safely say that I'm liking this. On to the next.
***
I was NOT asked to read this book by anyone. I paid for it with my own money, as I do for all the books I read, all the music I listen to and the movies I watch.
I adore the language in this book, it is so uplifting, even in the parts where everything goes to hell with a bang. And the humor is outstanding, listen to this, said about our Herald-Mage:
"They are a lot more worried that—oh—a bird will crap on you and you'll level the palace." Of course, he had just returned from years in combat zones, and was slightly, shall we say, gun-shy? Yeah.
And then Ms Lackey goes on to paint me pictures, like
"Birds chirped news at each other right outside his window."
Or this, when Vanyel hears Yfandes' voice in his head:
"Yfandes' mind-voice was yellow and effervescent with amusement."
And then she describes Vanyels sadness thus:
"He found himself smiling, a smile with tears on the edge of it, but smiling."
Brilliant language. It tastes good. Fabulous world-construction. I think we can safely say that I'm liking this. On to the next.
***
I was NOT asked to read this book by anyone. I paid for it with my own money, as I do for all the books I read, all the music I listen to and the movies I watch.
August 6, 2021
This book if far more political than I recall it being - but I find that is the case with most books I look back on. Political meaning the politics of THAT world, not ours - this is not a subtle stab by an author to display our current, or past, political environment, unless it pertains to a complete diabolical figure who wishes to murder an entire royal family.... then yeah, the parallels would apply, lol.
Instead, this second installment gravitates towards character growth and setting the stage for events that are going to soon happen in this world. We know what Valdemar is in the future, as the previous novels in this universe happen hundreds of years after the events in THIS trilogy.... but we never knew how they got there, until Vanyel's story. While first written and published in the 80's/90's - it still is just as impactful today, featuring an unapologetic LGBTQ protagonist (well, mostly unapologetic, book 1 was rough and book 2 DOES have questions). At the time, that type of casting was incredibly rare, especially in a Fantasy novel that has high levels of action, danger and magic. It is uniquely done if at times melodramatic.
I recall more romance in this Trilogy, yet Book 2 whispered not a word of it. That returns in book 3, which I am diving back into now. I remember much if it, but it's been long enough since I read this that the sheer epicness of the love and angst I recall makes me excited to read it all over again.
Instead, this second installment gravitates towards character growth and setting the stage for events that are going to soon happen in this world. We know what Valdemar is in the future, as the previous novels in this universe happen hundreds of years after the events in THIS trilogy.... but we never knew how they got there, until Vanyel's story. While first written and published in the 80's/90's - it still is just as impactful today, featuring an unapologetic LGBTQ protagonist (well, mostly unapologetic, book 1 was rough and book 2 DOES have questions). At the time, that type of casting was incredibly rare, especially in a Fantasy novel that has high levels of action, danger and magic. It is uniquely done if at times melodramatic.
I recall more romance in this Trilogy, yet Book 2 whispered not a word of it. That returns in book 3, which I am diving back into now. I remember much if it, but it's been long enough since I read this that the sheer epicness of the love and angst I recall makes me excited to read it all over again.
July 3, 2017
These books are so heavily character driven. The plot can be summed up so easily in a few sentences but the actual story is about Vanyel and his internal turmoil.
In fact a HUGE portion of this book is just Vanyel questioning everything: himself, his abilities, his weariness, his comrades, his friends, his enemies. Everything.
So I don't know why I don't get tired of it. I actually liked it despite it being annoying in some aspects. For example, just like the first book, half of it is almost solely devoted to Vanyel's gayness.
Now I LOVE the fact that a main character in a fantasy novel is gay. But it also seems to take away from a storyline that if given to a straight character, wouldn't rely so heavily on him being gay. EVERYONE in their world mentions it or disapproves of it. Vanyel questions his own gayness nearly every chapter until the end and it's just like . . . Why does a fantasy world need these prejudices??
I don't know. There were some problems and things I didn't approve of but I still like the books. I'm just tired of seeing fictional worlds where being gay is not accepted for no reason
In fact a HUGE portion of this book is just Vanyel questioning everything: himself, his abilities, his weariness, his comrades, his friends, his enemies. Everything.
So I don't know why I don't get tired of it. I actually liked it despite it being annoying in some aspects. For example, just like the first book, half of it is almost solely devoted to Vanyel's gayness.
Now I LOVE the fact that a main character in a fantasy novel is gay. But it also seems to take away from a storyline that if given to a straight character, wouldn't rely so heavily on him being gay. EVERYONE in their world mentions it or disapproves of it. Vanyel questions his own gayness nearly every chapter until the end and it's just like . . . Why does a fantasy world need these prejudices??
I don't know. There were some problems and things I didn't approve of but I still like the books. I'm just tired of seeing fictional worlds where being gay is not accepted for no reason
April 30, 2020
I give this book 4.5 stars. So far I think this trilogy is some of the best Valdemar books I have come across. I can see why so many people hold this particular trilogy in such high regards. Vanyel is an amazing character and this book helps the reader see why Vanyel is such an important historical figure 500 years after this trilogy ends. We get another awesome magic fight that I think was even better than the last one. Side characters all had independent voices, there was angst, and there was some fluff too! I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
July 9, 2022
This is the second book in The Last Herald Mage trilogy. I read this trilogy first, but in order. Vanyel is the last Herald Mage—the last Herald who can also work magic. In this book, he’s an adult, he’s been working overtime and he goes home for a rest and winds up involved in diplomatic intrigue when a boy in the neighboring kingdom—a boy who’s just been deposed as heir—is “chosen” and Vanyel must rescue him, then find out what happened to his murdered family.
September 12, 2021
This book was a big improvement over the first in the trilogy, now that Vanyel is older and out of the adolescent angsty years. A dark mystery adds intrigue to the story, plus we learn more about the world and the politics. Very enjoyable, although tragic too.
February 1, 2022
Probably my favorite of the Lackey books?
I liked him as the reluctant hero with impressive powers. I liked the way they treated his homecoming and his relationships with his father and arms master. I enjoyed the murder mystery.
I liked him as the reluctant hero with impressive powers. I liked the way they treated his homecoming and his relationships with his father and arms master. I enjoyed the murder mystery.
September 29, 2021
Second in The Last Herald-Mage fantasy series for Young Adult readers revolving around magical adventures in Valdemar. The focus is on Vanyel Ashkevron, the last Herald-Mage.
If you're interested, there is a chronological listing of the Valdemar books on my website.
My Take
Phew, there are so many fears in this. Vanyel is exhausted and worried over the number of Herald-Mages who have died, the exhaustion his aunt is suffering, the terror of a trip home, his fear for the king and Shavri's worries, the secret of the child he helped create for the king and Shavri, his worries about the vicious "playfulness" of his brothers, Melenna's shameless pursuit, and so much more.
Van's father is worried about this stupid idea his son Mekeal has, and Van is surprised by Mekeal's reasons. Another unexpected turnabout is Jervis. Wow. Makes you wonder how your childhood perceptions would be different from your adult perceptions of the same situations.
It's one rescue after another, from one hideous situation to a panic-stricken other. All while trying to understand what is driving Tashir. And who (and why) is driving this rebellion. And it's one huge learning experience Vanyel has that will change his life.
Lackey is using third person protagonist point-of-view from Vanyel's perspective. And it's handy that he sees ghosts and can mindspeak others so it's still only what Van is part of.
It's all about the horrors of ambition and family, character-driven and action-packed. Lackey keeps a good pace, but then I am partial to her cozy tales. Yes. Cozy. Despite all the violence, lol.
It's a sad story of unhappy families with lots of worry. It's also full of revealing moments that explain a lot about what happens in the future.
The Story
Vanyel has just returned from combat in which he held the positions of five other Herald-Mages while they recovered. He's exhausted, and his family is asking him home for a visit.
A very troubled visit when a rebellion pops up in a nearby kingdom.
The Characters
Herald-Mage Vanyel Ashkevron, a.k.a. Demonsbane, is second to the King's Own and gay; Yfandes is his Companion. An alternate character of his is Valdir, a scruffy minstrel. Savil Ashkevron is Vanyel's aunt and has been a Herald-Mage for decades, a Guardian for a shorter time; Kellan is her Companion. Dancer and Megwyn are foals dropped by Van's mare. Tylendel was Vanyel's first love who died on Sovvannight; Gala had been his Companion.
Withen, Lord of Forst Reach, is Vanyel's father. His mother is the flighty Treesa. Mekeal is Van's brother who has mostly taken over for their father; Roshya is his red-haired wife. They have six children. Lshya is the Shin'a'in stud Meke bought. Guard-Captain Lissa is their sister and in command of a Guard Company of which Sergeant Grayse is a part. Deveral, Kaster, Charis, and baby Kylla are more siblings. Radevel Ashkevron is a cousin. Nerya. Medren is the bastard child of Mekeal and Melenna (Treesa's maid who keeps chasing after Van) with a strong Bardic Gift. Jervis is the vicious armsmaster. Tam is Withen's chief stableman and most trusted trainer. Father Heward down in the village dislikes that awful Father Leren who replaced the beloved Father Osen. Sondri is one of the maids. Lord Kernos appears to be a neighbor.
Haven, Valdemar, is . . .
. . . the capital of the Kingdom. Randale "Randi" is the current king and only a Herald with a Gift for FarSight and a lesser Gift of Mindspeech — and deathly ill. His lifebonded is Shavri, a Healer, and together they have a daughter, Jisa, who is actually Van's daughter.
The Heralds include Tantras; Mardic and Donni, a lifebonded pair, were the first victims of the war; and, Lancir had been the King's Own with Taver as his Companion. Taver Chose Shavri when he died. Regen, Dorily, Wulgra, Kat, and Pretor are more dead Herald friends. Jaysen "Jays" Kondre is one of Van's few friends who is still alive. Guardians are always Herald-Mages and are tuned to the heartstone that protects all of Valdemar. Herald-Courier Sofya has her Companion, Gavis.
Bard Chadran is in charge of Bardic Collegium. Bard Breda wants more like Medren.
Highjorune, Lineas, is . . .
. . . the unhappy family seat of the Remoerdis family who all despise magic. Deveran Remoerdis of Lineas married Ylyna Mavelan of Baires to end their families' war. Their oldest son, the newly Chosen Tashir, is said to have mage-power, Fetching, which is not possible. His new Companion is Ghost, a stallion who's a MindHealer. The Inn of the Green Man is run by Bel. Tay and Ri are two of Bel's kitchen help; old Petar also works there. Jonny is the next but last minstrel Bel had. The Page is a brothel for gay men. Renfry is an older minstrel at the Pig and Stick with good advice; Tel is the cook there. Reta used to be a maid at the palace. Karis is the old armsmaster. Asra is the guard on the West gate.
Herald Lores is King Randale's envoy to the court of Lineas. And he's gone nuts!! His behavior is driving his Companion, Jenna, into tremendous turmoil.
Baires is . . .
. . . the home of the Mavelans. Uncle Vedric Mavelan is fronting the rebellion.
The Taleydras are . . .
. . . also known as the Hawkbrothers who live in the Pelagirs in vales. Moondance k'Treva is a Healer-Adept and partnered with Starwind, another Adept who live in the Vale of the Tayledras k'Treva. They wanted a child and Van conceived twins with Snowlight for them. Brightstar is one of the twins.
Other peoples/places of interest include the Shin'a'in who are amazing horsemen and guard the Dhorisha Plains, a formerly thriving country far to the south of Valdemar. The Pelagir Hills were struck by magic and deformed a wide variety of beasts and people into changelings. Karse is a religious country that calls demons and hates Valdemar. Hardorn, Iftel, and Rethwellan are other countries.
Elspeth was the previous queen of Valdemar. Bard Kyran had been her love after the king died. Their son, the original Heir, had been Herald-Mage Darvi. The Halfway Inn is halfway between Forst Reach and the rest of the Kingdom. Master Rolf Dawson is a luthier, a craftsman of musical instruments. Krebain was a warped mage in Magic’s Pawn , 1. The priests of Astera are on a witchhunt.
The Companions only look like horses. They communicate psychically with their Chosen, the human with whom they choose to bond. The vrondi are mindless air elementals. Jonne was a sweet Guardsman.
The Cover and Title
The cover is split vertically with two narrow black bands on the left and right, filled with flowers on the bottom and black-and-white spirits on the top. The larger center is separate from the other borders by vertical coral rules. Within is an orange and purple sunset with a tall black keep with a silhouette of walls angling down from the keep. There is fire on the left with a Companion rearing up in the middle and a young boy on its back. Vanyel, in his Herald whites, his long black hair streaming in the wind, is facing us with his left hand up, palm facing us, a sword in his right hand. The author's name is at the top in white. Two white horizontal rules separate the author's name from the title with the series info in between. The title is also in white.
The title is Magic's Promise , what Vanyel has promised to those who depend on him, on his strength. A promise he has not yet fulfilled.
If you're interested, there is a chronological listing of the Valdemar books on my website.
My Take
Phew, there are so many fears in this. Vanyel is exhausted and worried over the number of Herald-Mages who have died, the exhaustion his aunt is suffering, the terror of a trip home, his fear for the king and Shavri's worries, the secret of the child he helped create for the king and Shavri, his worries about the vicious "playfulness" of his brothers, Melenna's shameless pursuit, and so much more.
Van's father is worried about this stupid idea his son Mekeal has, and Van is surprised by Mekeal's reasons. Another unexpected turnabout is Jervis. Wow. Makes you wonder how your childhood perceptions would be different from your adult perceptions of the same situations.
It's one rescue after another, from one hideous situation to a panic-stricken other. All while trying to understand what is driving Tashir. And who (and why) is driving this rebellion. And it's one huge learning experience Vanyel has that will change his life.
Lackey is using third person protagonist point-of-view from Vanyel's perspective. And it's handy that he sees ghosts and can mindspeak others so it's still only what Van is part of.
It's all about the horrors of ambition and family, character-driven and action-packed. Lackey keeps a good pace, but then I am partial to her cozy tales. Yes. Cozy. Despite all the violence, lol.
It's a sad story of unhappy families with lots of worry. It's also full of revealing moments that explain a lot about what happens in the future.
The Story
Vanyel has just returned from combat in which he held the positions of five other Herald-Mages while they recovered. He's exhausted, and his family is asking him home for a visit.
A very troubled visit when a rebellion pops up in a nearby kingdom.
The Characters
Herald-Mage Vanyel Ashkevron, a.k.a. Demonsbane, is second to the King's Own and gay; Yfandes is his Companion. An alternate character of his is Valdir, a scruffy minstrel. Savil Ashkevron is Vanyel's aunt and has been a Herald-Mage for decades, a Guardian for a shorter time; Kellan is her Companion. Dancer and Megwyn are foals dropped by Van's mare. Tylendel was Vanyel's first love who died on Sovvannight; Gala had been his Companion.
Withen, Lord of Forst Reach, is Vanyel's father. His mother is the flighty Treesa. Mekeal is Van's brother who has mostly taken over for their father; Roshya is his red-haired wife. They have six children. Lshya is the Shin'a'in stud Meke bought. Guard-Captain Lissa is their sister and in command of a Guard Company of which Sergeant Grayse is a part. Deveral, Kaster, Charis, and baby Kylla are more siblings. Radevel Ashkevron is a cousin. Nerya. Medren is the bastard child of Mekeal and Melenna (Treesa's maid who keeps chasing after Van) with a strong Bardic Gift. Jervis is the vicious armsmaster. Tam is Withen's chief stableman and most trusted trainer. Father Heward down in the village dislikes that awful Father Leren who replaced the beloved Father Osen. Sondri is one of the maids. Lord Kernos appears to be a neighbor.
Haven, Valdemar, is . . .
. . . the capital of the Kingdom. Randale "Randi" is the current king and only a Herald with a Gift for FarSight and a lesser Gift of Mindspeech — and deathly ill. His lifebonded is Shavri, a Healer, and together they have a daughter, Jisa, who is actually Van's daughter.
The Heralds include Tantras; Mardic and Donni, a lifebonded pair, were the first victims of the war; and, Lancir had been the King's Own with Taver as his Companion. Taver Chose Shavri when he died. Regen, Dorily, Wulgra, Kat, and Pretor are more dead Herald friends. Jaysen "Jays" Kondre is one of Van's few friends who is still alive. Guardians are always Herald-Mages and are tuned to the heartstone that protects all of Valdemar. Herald-Courier Sofya has her Companion, Gavis.
Bard Chadran is in charge of Bardic Collegium. Bard Breda wants more like Medren.
Highjorune, Lineas, is . . .
. . . the unhappy family seat of the Remoerdis family who all despise magic. Deveran Remoerdis of Lineas married Ylyna Mavelan of Baires to end their families' war. Their oldest son, the newly Chosen Tashir, is said to have mage-power, Fetching, which is not possible. His new Companion is Ghost, a stallion who's a MindHealer. The Inn of the Green Man is run by Bel. Tay and Ri are two of Bel's kitchen help; old Petar also works there. Jonny is the next but last minstrel Bel had. The Page is a brothel for gay men. Renfry is an older minstrel at the Pig and Stick with good advice; Tel is the cook there. Reta used to be a maid at the palace. Karis is the old armsmaster. Asra is the guard on the West gate.
Herald Lores is King Randale's envoy to the court of Lineas. And he's gone nuts!! His behavior is driving his Companion, Jenna, into tremendous turmoil.
Baires is . . .
. . . the home of the Mavelans. Uncle Vedric Mavelan is fronting the rebellion.
The Taleydras are . . .
. . . also known as the Hawkbrothers who live in the Pelagirs in vales. Moondance k'Treva is a Healer-Adept and partnered with Starwind, another Adept who live in the Vale of the Tayledras k'Treva. They wanted a child and Van conceived twins with Snowlight for them. Brightstar is one of the twins.
Other peoples/places of interest include the Shin'a'in who are amazing horsemen and guard the Dhorisha Plains, a formerly thriving country far to the south of Valdemar. The Pelagir Hills were struck by magic and deformed a wide variety of beasts and people into changelings. Karse is a religious country that calls demons and hates Valdemar. Hardorn, Iftel, and Rethwellan are other countries.
Elspeth was the previous queen of Valdemar. Bard Kyran had been her love after the king died. Their son, the original Heir, had been Herald-Mage Darvi. The Halfway Inn is halfway between Forst Reach and the rest of the Kingdom. Master Rolf Dawson is a luthier, a craftsman of musical instruments. Krebain was a warped mage in Magic’s Pawn , 1. The priests of Astera are on a witchhunt.
The Companions only look like horses. They communicate psychically with their Chosen, the human with whom they choose to bond. The vrondi are mindless air elementals. Jonne was a sweet Guardsman.
The Cover and Title
The cover is split vertically with two narrow black bands on the left and right, filled with flowers on the bottom and black-and-white spirits on the top. The larger center is separate from the other borders by vertical coral rules. Within is an orange and purple sunset with a tall black keep with a silhouette of walls angling down from the keep. There is fire on the left with a Companion rearing up in the middle and a young boy on its back. Vanyel, in his Herald whites, his long black hair streaming in the wind, is facing us with his left hand up, palm facing us, a sword in his right hand. The author's name is at the top in white. Two white horizontal rules separate the author's name from the title with the series info in between. The title is also in white.
The title is Magic's Promise , what Vanyel has promised to those who depend on him, on his strength. A promise he has not yet fulfilled.
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