Make sure you pick up the first book in this series before
starting on the second, the author does not spend too much
time explaining what occurred in the first book. Valdemar
is back! The fantasy world that Lackey creates is so
detailed and so exciting to a reader that this quality of
the book alone will make the book stick out.
When Mags is chosen by a Companion, a magical creature in
the form of a horse-like creature, he is taken from
deplorable circumstances. Mags, previously an orphan, now
has the chance to become a Herald. The reader will be just
as excited for Mags as Mags is about this latest
development. Mags is such a deserving character, he is
kind, brave, and honest for the most part.
This book has a bit of a rough writing style; however, the
book is written from Mags' perspective and he did not have
much of an opportunity as far as education goes. The
rougher style of writing fits in this case. The
descriptions of Valdemar, the action that Mags causes, and
the constant development of the characters and plot will
keep the reader entertained. This book is recommended to
teens/young adults/adults.
"Spellbinding storyteller" (Rave Reviews) Mercedes Lackey
continues her epic Valdemar series.
Magpie is a thirteen-year-old orphan chosen by one of the
magical Companion horses of Valdemar and taken to the
capital city, Haven, to be trained as a Herald. Like all
Heralds, Magpie learns that he has a hidden Gift-the Gift of
telepathy. But life at the court is not without obstacles.
When Mags is "recognized" by foreign secret operatives whose
purpose is unknown, Mags himself comes under suspicion. Who
are Magpie's parents-who is he, really? Can Mags solve the
riddle of his parentage and his connection with the
mysterious spies-and prove his loyalty-before the king and
court banish him as a traitor?