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Alberich's Tale #1
Exile's Honor
The national best-selling novels of Valdemar are among the most beloved and acclaimed works of Mercedes Lackey's career. This brand-new, stand-alone book in the series tells the story of one of Valdemar's most popular continuing characters-the prickly weapons-master Alberich.
He was once a Captain in the Army of Karse, a kingdom which has been at war with Valdemar for decades. But when Alberich took a stand for what he believes in-and defected-he was chosen by one of the magical Companion horses...to serve the queen of Valdemar.
He was once a Captain in the Army of Karse, a kingdom which has been at war with Valdemar for decades. But when Alberich took a stand for what he believes in-and defected-he was chosen by one of the magical Companion horses...to serve the queen of Valdemar.
448 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2002
About the author
Mercedes Lackey
631 books8,884 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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November 24, 2011
This is up there with my very favorite Valdemar books. I started reading Valdemar stuff when I was nineteen or twenty so I very much appreciated the perspective of an adult approaching the Land of Magical Horses and Sunshine with rather more skepticism than most of the series' protagonists.
There's the usual epic battle, personal tragedy, and Herald-school hijinks, but the meat of the book is the series of ethical issues Alberich is faced with, and they're approached in a thoughtful way. It's easy to represent Valdemar as a land of ultimate liberal tolerance, but it's much more interesting to see how that works out under a serious challenge. And I was also pleased to see the issue of Companion-bonding examined as something other than a universal good - most empathic-bonded intelligent animal books (and it's totally a subgenre) never really ask questions about consent, which is problematic especially when the subjects are often barely adolescents. The question is resolved in favor of it being a universal good, of course, but at least the question is raised and examined.
There's the usual epic battle, personal tragedy, and Herald-school hijinks, but the meat of the book is the series of ethical issues Alberich is faced with, and they're approached in a thoughtful way. It's easy to represent Valdemar as a land of ultimate liberal tolerance, but it's much more interesting to see how that works out under a serious challenge. And I was also pleased to see the issue of Companion-bonding examined as something other than a universal good - most empathic-bonded intelligent animal books (and it's totally a subgenre) never really ask questions about consent, which is problematic especially when the subjects are often barely adolescents. The question is resolved in favor of it being a universal good, of course, but at least the question is raised and examined.
March 1, 2010
I'm behind on my blogging, so this will be fast.
I have to say that, of all the Valdemar books, I think the 'Rein of Selenay' timeline is, by far, the best.
And the "Exile's" series are the best of the best.
These follow the fortunes, and lack thereof, of Alberich, a Karsite refugee and former captain in their army, as he makes a place for himself in Valdemar. Alberich has been a soldier since he was a child, and has taken to heart the ideas of honor, service, and his religion. And yet the priests of the "Sun God," his religion, have taken over and corrupted his religion, and it is only when he comes to Valdemar that Alberich has realized that his religion has been corrupted in his native country by those who would use belief for political ends.
He has, eventually, become Weaponsmaster of the Collegium of Heralds, and is one of Queen Selenay's most trusted advisors.
Really spiffy book. At her best, Lackey does action extemely well, creates believable characters, and has interesting explorations of belief, of honor, and of culture.
Since about 2000, I feel as if Lackey has been firing on all cylinders, and this book, I think, finds her at the top of her form.
I have to say that, of all the Valdemar books, I think the 'Rein of Selenay' timeline is, by far, the best.
And the "Exile's" series are the best of the best.
These follow the fortunes, and lack thereof, of Alberich, a Karsite refugee and former captain in their army, as he makes a place for himself in Valdemar. Alberich has been a soldier since he was a child, and has taken to heart the ideas of honor, service, and his religion. And yet the priests of the "Sun God," his religion, have taken over and corrupted his religion, and it is only when he comes to Valdemar that Alberich has realized that his religion has been corrupted in his native country by those who would use belief for political ends.
He has, eventually, become Weaponsmaster of the Collegium of Heralds, and is one of Queen Selenay's most trusted advisors.
Really spiffy book. At her best, Lackey does action extemely well, creates believable characters, and has interesting explorations of belief, of honor, and of culture.
Since about 2000, I feel as if Lackey has been firing on all cylinders, and this book, I think, finds her at the top of her form.
March 28, 2022
First in the Exile Duology subseries within the Valdemar fantasy universe (and taking place in 1355 AF) revolving around Alberich, a captain in the Karsite army. If you're interested, there is a chronological listing of the Valdemar books on my website.
My Take
Exile's Honor is primarily a tug of war between Alberich's loyalty to his homeland versus its corruption. He must determine if Valdemar is speaking the truth, about so many, many things. It's a hard case, as Alberich's whole life has been the condemnation of those Demon-Riders and their Hellhorses. Alberich has revelation after revelation, not least of which is his realizing that even honor needs a solid base on which to stand. Ooh, I do like that solution Kantor comes up with to keep Alberich's honor and yet help Valdemar. A very clever idea.
Lackey uses third person global subjective point-of-view primarily from the perspective of Alberich with some few perspectives provided by others such as Selenay, Talamir, and Dethor. Still the great majority of what we learn is through Alberich.
There's also the prejudice Alberich as a Karsite faces in Valdemar with a variety of people stepping in to help. The audacious Selenay has some interesting suggestions, lol. Father Henrick and Gerichen take the more humane approach to the concept of "witch-powers". Thank god. As for the Heralds' thoughts on settling Alberich in, they're not caught up in red tape! They're quite realistic and intent on reassuring Alberich that his choices will not be taken from him. Again.
More Valdemaran practicality shows in those long internships where a particular Herald-trainee's circumstances require something different from the usual. More practicality was explained when Selenay spoke of the fountains and statues that have additional requirements.
It's all hypocrisy in Karse. If a child is found with useful powers, he's yanked into the Temple for training; if the child has no useful powers or is too old, he's put in the Fire to be Cleansed. It's a horrid country, and at the end, Karse is hoist by its own petard, lol.
I'm rather confused about Alberich thinking his father was mad and others saying it might have been a conspiracy amongst his wife's people and yet Lackey states that Alberich's mother is a tavern wench and Alberich is a bastard. More confusion arises with that back history of Jasker having a family. Outside of Valdemar?? I thought Companions were only born in Valdemar?
I love Lackey's description of Alberich's physicality as a warrior. It adds such a gleeful tone for those older trainees Dethor is concerned about, who are about to get their comeuppance with this weaponsmaster-trainee! Fun, fun, fun!
The true issue between Valdemar and Karse is freedom to choose with a busy set of stories within the story that will keep you turning those pages. That will set your heart afire, your lips to laughing, and your eyes to weeping.
Be sure to have a box of tissues for the end, although your heart will sing with the children rescued and Alberich's realization that friends can become family.
The Story
Loyal to Karse, Alberich must still hide his gifts until caught out by a Voice. Thanks to Silver, Alberich survives only to waken in Haven. In enemy hands.
Hands that need a good spy to insert into Karse. If only Alberich's honor would allow him to go, unless . . . Unless a MindHealer can get into someone's head . . .
There is so much that Alberich can do, and he does love a good fight.
The Characters
Captain Alberich, a bastard son of a tavern wench, was chosen by a Voice at age 13. A dangerous choice for Alberich has a witch-power. "Aarak Benshane" is one of Alberich's many alter egos. "Silver", a.k.a. Kantor, is a stallion gifted to Alberich by the Voice of Vkandis Sunlord as replacement for Alberich's faithful old Smoke.
Captain Anberg is the man Alberich replaces. Leftenants Herdahl and Klaus hate Alberich (for being promoted ahead of them).
Karse is . . .
. . . the enemy of Valdemar with Ortrech as king. Karsites worship Vkandis Sunlord with the Son of the Sun the leader of their religion. The Sunpriests are their priests with the Voices the highest ranking and usually possessing mage-gifts. Other religious levels include Red Robes, Archpriests, and Hierophants. Karsite priests refer to the Valdemaran Heralds as Demon-Riders.
Berthold had been the Weaponsmaster to the youngest boys. Aksel Tarselein had been one of Berthold's students and is now the Weaponsmaster to the Sunsguard Cadets. Alberich's mentor in childhood, Father Kentroch, is a teacher and protector.
Valdemar
Sendar is the king (he is slaughtered at the end in battle); Lorenil is Sendar's Companion. Selenay is his daughter and heir with a touch of empathy with Caryo as her Companion. Crance is Selenay's secretary. Haven is the capital. The Home Farms supply the Collegium while the Royal Farm supplies the Palace. The Guard is Valdemar's own standing army of full-time soldiers.
The Heralds are . . .
. . . the ultimate law enforcement in Valdemar. They are Chosen by a Companion, a supernatural gift of a white horse-like being with a conscience, in a life-long bond and communicate telepathically. The King’s Own is the king’s confidante and sounding board. Rolan is a new Grove-Born Companion (he'll replace Taver with Talamir).
King's Own Herald Talamir and his Companion, Taver, Herald Aren, and the Lord Marshal's Herald Joyeaus were Alberich's rescuers. Selenay's Six will include Heralds Karen and Ylsa; City Guards Locasti Perken, Berda Lunge, and Haydee Dellas; and, Palace Guardswoman Lotte. The King's Guard will include Healer Crathach has a MindHealing gift and is good with knives, Talamir, and Jadus. Herald Laika disguised herself as a washerwoman to spy in Karse. Herald Kulen.
Dethor is the Weaponsmaster for the Collegium; before he was Chosen, he'd spied for the Lord Marshal. Pashen is his Companion. Bard-turned-Herald Jadus, a deadly swordsman, is chosen to introduce Alberich around. Herald Elcarth is quite sharp and standing in for the Dean of the Collegium; he teaches history. Kimel, the head of His Majesty's Guard, wants a challenging opponent. Jasker is a hate-filled Companion who led others. Volunteers include Orven, a herdsman; a tinker; Herald Laika disguised as a washerwoman; and, the young Herald Wethes. Herald Mirilin has sessions in the Court of Justice. Estan is her Companion. Bard Lellian is in charge of the funeral procession.
Tammas and Jahan (their Companions are Trevor and Mik) are Herald-trainees who think they're all that. Theela is a girl Herald-trainee. The middle-aged Trainee Myste, a former sedentary law clerk, is hopeless at weaponry but does know when someone is telling the truth. Aleirian is her Companion. Students are distinguished by the color of their uniforms: regular students are in pale blue, Bardic-trainees wear brick, and Healer-trainees are in pale green. Lieutenant Chorran, Koan, and Nort Halfden are with the Valdemaran army on the border. Ashkevron Manor has sent what fighting horses they can (The Last Herald mage subseries).
Father Henrick and his assistant, Acolyte "Geri" Gerichen, serve the Sunlord in Haven, calling their building the Temple of the Lord of Light. Patriarch Pellion d'Genrayes will represent all the religions of Haven.
Lord Wordercan wants to put in a tannery. The Blue Boar is a tavern. The Companion's Bell is a tavern where Heralds tend to hang out (it's also where Alberich can change into one of his personas). Lord Realard was delivered back to his father. Lord Gartheser is on the Council and quite nasty about Alberich. Lord Orthallen, an old playfellow of Sendar's, is part of Gartheser's group and has an eye to the main chance. Lord Tholinar and Lady Donrevy also have Council seats.
Tedrel mercenaries are . . .
. . . a people who lost their war and went into exile. They're not part of any Guild and are unreliable and cruel. Kantis is the young boy who takes charge of the children.
The King of Rethwellan is rumored to have a connection with the Shin'a'in. Menmellith had once been part of Karse, long, long, long ago. Baron Valdemar had founded the country. Elspeth the Peace-maker ruled in the past and had a very good notion about statues being practical, lol. The Holderkin are a group, primarily located along the Valdemaran border, with singular beliefs who take care to protect themselves with fortresses and supplies. Herald Pol had been Lavan Firestorm's mentor ( Brightly Burning ) while Theran had been king.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a contrast with the cheery soft yellow textured wall of the first vertical two-thirds on the left with a heater shield in a striated gradation of orange and brown with a dark brown border with the all-white Kantor rearing up through the shield "window". The author's name in burgundy is above the shield. The title, in black, is below the shield. Below that, in dark brown, is the overall series information. The right third of the cover is an interior shot of a stone wall with a Sunlord stained glass window and the dark-haired Alberich standing in front of it, wearing a short-sleeved gray tunic with a black vest and holding a sword in his right hand. A rack of swords is in front of him.
The title is what Alberich holds most dear, his Exile's Honor.
My Take
"That was the way of things, in the armies of Karse. You rose by watching your back, and (if the occasion arose) sticking careful knives into the backs of your less-cautious fellow . . ."Poor Alberich. His whole life he's been told how demon-ridden Valdemar is, and yet his predicament is mostly the fault of his own people. He's caught between a rock and a hard place, well, to be honest, so are Kantor and Talamir. The first for their condemnation and the second for riding roughshod over Alberich's choices.
Exile's Honor is primarily a tug of war between Alberich's loyalty to his homeland versus its corruption. He must determine if Valdemar is speaking the truth, about so many, many things. It's a hard case, as Alberich's whole life has been the condemnation of those Demon-Riders and their Hellhorses. Alberich has revelation after revelation, not least of which is his realizing that even honor needs a solid base on which to stand. Ooh, I do like that solution Kantor comes up with to keep Alberich's honor and yet help Valdemar. A very clever idea.
Lackey uses third person global subjective point-of-view primarily from the perspective of Alberich with some few perspectives provided by others such as Selenay, Talamir, and Dethor. Still the great majority of what we learn is through Alberich.
There's also the prejudice Alberich as a Karsite faces in Valdemar with a variety of people stepping in to help. The audacious Selenay has some interesting suggestions, lol. Father Henrick and Gerichen take the more humane approach to the concept of "witch-powers". Thank god. As for the Heralds' thoughts on settling Alberich in, they're not caught up in red tape! They're quite realistic and intent on reassuring Alberich that his choices will not be taken from him. Again.
More Valdemaran practicality shows in those long internships where a particular Herald-trainee's circumstances require something different from the usual. More practicality was explained when Selenay spoke of the fountains and statues that have additional requirements.
It's all hypocrisy in Karse. If a child is found with useful powers, he's yanked into the Temple for training; if the child has no useful powers or is too old, he's put in the Fire to be Cleansed. It's a horrid country, and at the end, Karse is hoist by its own petard, lol.
I'm rather confused about Alberich thinking his father was mad and others saying it might have been a conspiracy amongst his wife's people and yet Lackey states that Alberich's mother is a tavern wench and Alberich is a bastard. More confusion arises with that back history of Jasker having a family. Outside of Valdemar?? I thought Companions were only born in Valdemar?
I love Lackey's description of Alberich's physicality as a warrior. It adds such a gleeful tone for those older trainees Dethor is concerned about, who are about to get their comeuppance with this weaponsmaster-trainee! Fun, fun, fun!
The true issue between Valdemar and Karse is freedom to choose with a busy set of stories within the story that will keep you turning those pages. That will set your heart afire, your lips to laughing, and your eyes to weeping.
Be sure to have a box of tissues for the end, although your heart will sing with the children rescued and Alberich's realization that friends can become family.
The Story
Loyal to Karse, Alberich must still hide his gifts until caught out by a Voice. Thanks to Silver, Alberich survives only to waken in Haven. In enemy hands.
Hands that need a good spy to insert into Karse. If only Alberich's honor would allow him to go, unless . . . Unless a MindHealer can get into someone's head . . .
There is so much that Alberich can do, and he does love a good fight.
The Characters
Captain Alberich, a bastard son of a tavern wench, was chosen by a Voice at age 13. A dangerous choice for Alberich has a witch-power. "Aarak Benshane" is one of Alberich's many alter egos. "Silver", a.k.a. Kantor, is a stallion gifted to Alberich by the Voice of Vkandis Sunlord as replacement for Alberich's faithful old Smoke.
Captain Anberg is the man Alberich replaces. Leftenants Herdahl and Klaus hate Alberich (for being promoted ahead of them).
Karse is . . .
. . . the enemy of Valdemar with Ortrech as king. Karsites worship Vkandis Sunlord with the Son of the Sun the leader of their religion. The Sunpriests are their priests with the Voices the highest ranking and usually possessing mage-gifts. Other religious levels include Red Robes, Archpriests, and Hierophants. Karsite priests refer to the Valdemaran Heralds as Demon-Riders.
Berthold had been the Weaponsmaster to the youngest boys. Aksel Tarselein had been one of Berthold's students and is now the Weaponsmaster to the Sunsguard Cadets. Alberich's mentor in childhood, Father Kentroch, is a teacher and protector.
Valdemar
Sendar is the king (he is slaughtered at the end in battle); Lorenil is Sendar's Companion. Selenay is his daughter and heir with a touch of empathy with Caryo as her Companion. Crance is Selenay's secretary. Haven is the capital. The Home Farms supply the Collegium while the Royal Farm supplies the Palace. The Guard is Valdemar's own standing army of full-time soldiers.
The Heralds are . . .
. . . the ultimate law enforcement in Valdemar. They are Chosen by a Companion, a supernatural gift of a white horse-like being with a conscience, in a life-long bond and communicate telepathically. The King’s Own is the king’s confidante and sounding board. Rolan is a new Grove-Born Companion (he'll replace Taver with Talamir).
King's Own Herald Talamir and his Companion, Taver, Herald Aren, and the Lord Marshal's Herald Joyeaus were Alberich's rescuers. Selenay's Six will include Heralds Karen and Ylsa; City Guards Locasti Perken, Berda Lunge, and Haydee Dellas; and, Palace Guardswoman Lotte. The King's Guard will include Healer Crathach has a MindHealing gift and is good with knives, Talamir, and Jadus. Herald Laika disguised herself as a washerwoman to spy in Karse. Herald Kulen.
Dethor is the Weaponsmaster for the Collegium; before he was Chosen, he'd spied for the Lord Marshal. Pashen is his Companion. Bard-turned-Herald Jadus, a deadly swordsman, is chosen to introduce Alberich around. Herald Elcarth is quite sharp and standing in for the Dean of the Collegium; he teaches history. Kimel, the head of His Majesty's Guard, wants a challenging opponent. Jasker is a hate-filled Companion who led others. Volunteers include Orven, a herdsman; a tinker; Herald Laika disguised as a washerwoman; and, the young Herald Wethes. Herald Mirilin has sessions in the Court of Justice. Estan is her Companion. Bard Lellian is in charge of the funeral procession.
Tammas and Jahan (their Companions are Trevor and Mik) are Herald-trainees who think they're all that. Theela is a girl Herald-trainee. The middle-aged Trainee Myste, a former sedentary law clerk, is hopeless at weaponry but does know when someone is telling the truth. Aleirian is her Companion. Students are distinguished by the color of their uniforms: regular students are in pale blue, Bardic-trainees wear brick, and Healer-trainees are in pale green. Lieutenant Chorran, Koan, and Nort Halfden are with the Valdemaran army on the border. Ashkevron Manor has sent what fighting horses they can (The Last Herald mage subseries).
Father Henrick and his assistant, Acolyte "Geri" Gerichen, serve the Sunlord in Haven, calling their building the Temple of the Lord of Light. Patriarch Pellion d'Genrayes will represent all the religions of Haven.
Lord Wordercan wants to put in a tannery. The Blue Boar is a tavern. The Companion's Bell is a tavern where Heralds tend to hang out (it's also where Alberich can change into one of his personas). Lord Realard was delivered back to his father. Lord Gartheser is on the Council and quite nasty about Alberich. Lord Orthallen, an old playfellow of Sendar's, is part of Gartheser's group and has an eye to the main chance. Lord Tholinar and Lady Donrevy also have Council seats.
Tedrel mercenaries are . . .
. . . a people who lost their war and went into exile. They're not part of any Guild and are unreliable and cruel. Kantis is the young boy who takes charge of the children.
The King of Rethwellan is rumored to have a connection with the Shin'a'in. Menmellith had once been part of Karse, long, long, long ago. Baron Valdemar had founded the country. Elspeth the Peace-maker ruled in the past and had a very good notion about statues being practical, lol. The Holderkin are a group, primarily located along the Valdemaran border, with singular beliefs who take care to protect themselves with fortresses and supplies. Herald Pol had been Lavan Firestorm's mentor ( Brightly Burning ) while Theran had been king.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a contrast with the cheery soft yellow textured wall of the first vertical two-thirds on the left with a heater shield in a striated gradation of orange and brown with a dark brown border with the all-white Kantor rearing up through the shield "window". The author's name in burgundy is above the shield. The title, in black, is below the shield. Below that, in dark brown, is the overall series information. The right third of the cover is an interior shot of a stone wall with a Sunlord stained glass window and the dark-haired Alberich standing in front of it, wearing a short-sleeved gray tunic with a black vest and holding a sword in his right hand. A rack of swords is in front of him.
The title is what Alberich holds most dear, his Exile's Honor.
February 18, 2018
There will be Spoilers for the "The Last Herald Mage" trilogy and "Arrows of the Queen"!
This book was such a joy to read (despite all the heartbreak in it).
Meeting Alberich and the fact that we get a Chosen who is an adult was the first thing I squeed about. And then the rescue?! The rescue with Kantor saving him from the burning hut and racing to the border to get him medical attention and the whole thing in the healers house? *SQUEEEEE* That was a very good start to this book. :)
I love all the stuff about Alberich thinking what his duty is. If helping Valdemar is helping his people or not. The agony about having to stay in a safe place while the people he trained are going to war and everything else.
I love the Companions. I love the Companions. I love the Companions.
The final battle? :( Reading how Taver and Sendar die? Made me cry on the train to work. I mean, having read "Arrows of the Queen", I knew something was up because I met Rolan as the Companion of the Queen's Own and Selany as Queen, but still. :(
I love all the hints and little things of the past - mentioning Vanyel and Lavan Firestorm (who I haven't met yet). The battle horses of Ashkevron Manor (I mean, are you trying to kill me here? Van suggested the breeding of these horses. And here they are, hundreds of years later, protecting the people of Valdemar. I, just, *sobs*. Also, I want the story of these horses and everything else.).
I also love that Alberich immediately shot down everyone mentioning that a Herald who lost his leg can only teach anymore, because seriously? He only lost a leg. He can still ride (his Companion wouldn't let him fall anyways) and do his duty (if he wants to). :)
The only thing I had trouble with, was the grammar of Alberich when he talks (he is saying the same about the Valdemaren grammar by the way. ;)) which sometimes made it difficult to follow him when he talked. But, I like that that got addressed a bit too in the book.
So, yeah, I'm a happy camper and I kind of want to re-read "Arrows of the Queen" & Co with the knowledge of the history of Alberich and Selany...
This book was such a joy to read (despite all the heartbreak in it).
Meeting Alberich and the fact that we get a Chosen who is an adult was the first thing I squeed about. And then the rescue?! The rescue with Kantor saving him from the burning hut and racing to the border to get him medical attention and the whole thing in the healers house? *SQUEEEEE* That was a very good start to this book. :)
I love all the stuff about Alberich thinking what his duty is. If helping Valdemar is helping his people or not. The agony about having to stay in a safe place while the people he trained are going to war and everything else.
I love the Companions. I love the Companions. I love the Companions.
The final battle? :( Reading how Taver and Sendar die? Made me cry on the train to work. I mean, having read "Arrows of the Queen", I knew something was up because I met Rolan as the Companion of the Queen's Own and Selany as Queen, but still. :(
I love all the hints and little things of the past - mentioning Vanyel and Lavan Firestorm (who I haven't met yet). The battle horses of Ashkevron Manor (I mean, are you trying to kill me here? Van suggested the breeding of these horses. And here they are, hundreds of years later, protecting the people of Valdemar. I, just, *sobs*. Also, I want the story of these horses and everything else.).
I also love that Alberich immediately shot down everyone mentioning that a Herald who lost his leg can only teach anymore, because seriously? He only lost a leg. He can still ride (his Companion wouldn't let him fall anyways) and do his duty (if he wants to). :)
The only thing I had trouble with, was the grammar of Alberich when he talks (he is saying the same about the Valdemaren grammar by the way. ;)) which sometimes made it difficult to follow him when he talked. But, I like that that got addressed a bit too in the book.
So, yeah, I'm a happy camper and I kind of want to re-read "Arrows of the Queen" & Co with the knowledge of the history of Alberich and Selany...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2009
The problem with books that are chronologically set before the time of the latest books is that the author has to choose how much backstory to reveal and how obvious to make it...in this case a little too obvious. She really pounds the point home that he has to tougher than anything his students will face outside in order to help them survive - tougher! survive! aarrrrgggghhhhh!! Nice fleshing out of part of the world she created, maybe not requiring sooo much paper to tell it though.
June 16, 2021
Really, really good. I know I read this several times after it came out, but it's been years since I last visited it. It may, in someways, be the best book in the series. A great blend of philosophy, plot, character development and all the other things really good fantasy can bring to a book!
April 28, 2021
This was truly a wonderful book, more than I ever expected from a book that focused on Alberich. Being a big Valdemar fan and having read almost every other book set in the world, I had somewhat unintentionally avoided this particular series for many years due to an issue that I expected to make me struggle with staying immersed in the story, and that was Alberich's way of speaking. From seeing him in the Arrows series as well as the other subsequent books in the timeline, his backwards speech patterns bothered me when he was just a side character, so I didn't know how I'd be able to not get frustrated if I read a whole book or two with him as the main character. But it wasn't nearly as jarring as I expected it to be, and so now I am kicking myself for putting it off this long.
You can tell that this is one of the later books written in Valdemar, despite where it is in the timeline, because of how much it beautifully blends ins references to the other series and the world's history; Lackey always has a way of doing this that would allow you to read the series all by itself as your first adventure into Valdemar without even realizing there was more to understand than what was on the page, but simultaneously making it a work of wonder for those who have read all the other books and know exactly what all those little tidbits really mean.
My appreciation for Alberich as a character has skyrocketed, and I'm excited to get to book two very soon so I can continue this feeling of wonder for at least a little while longer.
You can tell that this is one of the later books written in Valdemar, despite where it is in the timeline, because of how much it beautifully blends ins references to the other series and the world's history; Lackey always has a way of doing this that would allow you to read the series all by itself as your first adventure into Valdemar without even realizing there was more to understand than what was on the page, but simultaneously making it a work of wonder for those who have read all the other books and know exactly what all those little tidbits really mean.
My appreciation for Alberich as a character has skyrocketed, and I'm excited to get to book two very soon so I can continue this feeling of wonder for at least a little while longer.
March 20, 2022
Alberich has long been one of my favorite Valdemar characters, so to read his story was more than a delight. His character is one of the more unique in Valdemar, and his circumstances are vastly different from any other. Of course this set of books set you up for what was the first written stories in the entire series, and a few small things change as Valdemar lore became more updated. I love this background information though, and it just adds to the entire immersion in the world. As always the writing is fantastic, and the world building superb.
Another great addition to this series. Five stars.
Another great addition to this series. Five stars.
January 28, 2021
This was classical Mercedes Lackey. I loved Alberich as a character to follow. There was also a lot about the companions in this book which I loved. You definitely need to have some tissues ready when reading this book, Lackey really knows how to pluck at the heart strings.
October 4, 2018
I love this series and really enjoy this book. I love the Alberich back story and I enjoyed the...religious aspects, strangely. Vkandis Sunlord's worship felt like a commentary on Christianity. The "old school" that follows the Word vs the "new school" that follows interpretation. The way that free will can lead to extreme power abuses... it's all very interesting to me.
August 17, 2018
Like many Lackey's books, this one is stuffed with inner monologues, contemplations, and explanations. Too many of them slow the action and slide the quality of the prose down to barely acceptable.
On the other hand, the plot is interesting, and the protagonist a truly fascinating man. Alberich is a Karsite, a former officer of a Karsite army, chosen by a Companion to become a Herald of Valdemar. As Karse and Valdemar have been enemies for decades, Alberich's position in Valdemar is precarious at best. Chosen or not, he still represents the enemy for the majority of Valdemarans. Even the other Companions don't trust him: too many Valdemaran people suffered from the cruel Karsite priests.
Alberich himself feels lost in a foreign country, among people he had known as enemies since he was a toddler. Like any immigrant, he is sometimes bewildered and sometimes angry. He struggles with the language and with the unfamiliar customs and concepts. He can't fathom the notion of betraying his own people, but what else could he do serving the enemy kingdom. He can't go back either: he would be executed as traitor if he returned. He is bleeding inside, searching for the right path, utterly alone except for his Companion.
It takes him a while to find his place in Valdemar. To find friends. To find acceptance. His story resonated with me on the deepest level despite the unneeded verbiage, the repetitious explanations, and the constant info dumps. Alberich makes this book worth reading.
On the other hand, the plot is interesting, and the protagonist a truly fascinating man. Alberich is a Karsite, a former officer of a Karsite army, chosen by a Companion to become a Herald of Valdemar. As Karse and Valdemar have been enemies for decades, Alberich's position in Valdemar is precarious at best. Chosen or not, he still represents the enemy for the majority of Valdemarans. Even the other Companions don't trust him: too many Valdemaran people suffered from the cruel Karsite priests.
Alberich himself feels lost in a foreign country, among people he had known as enemies since he was a toddler. Like any immigrant, he is sometimes bewildered and sometimes angry. He struggles with the language and with the unfamiliar customs and concepts. He can't fathom the notion of betraying his own people, but what else could he do serving the enemy kingdom. He can't go back either: he would be executed as traitor if he returned. He is bleeding inside, searching for the right path, utterly alone except for his Companion.
It takes him a while to find his place in Valdemar. To find friends. To find acceptance. His story resonated with me on the deepest level despite the unneeded verbiage, the repetitious explanations, and the constant info dumps. Alberich makes this book worth reading.
June 24, 2019
Re-read 2019
I felt like re-reading Herald Alberich's duology since it has been awhile. He is one of my favorite characters in Lackey's Valdemar series.
Re-read 2017
This book is the first in the duology about Herald Alberich the weapons master during the Arrows of the Queen trilogy. He's originally from Karse the "archenemies" of Valdemar and this book tells the story of how he came to be a herald and a part of the collegium. I loved the book, I was always fascinated by this gruff, slightly standoffish herald. Someone who is technically the exact opposite of what you think a herald would be. I suggest reading this after you finish after the Arrows of the Queen trilogy, as well as the Mage Winds and Mage Wars trilogies. I also suggest reading Skif's book "Take a Thief".
I felt like re-reading Herald Alberich's duology since it has been awhile. He is one of my favorite characters in Lackey's Valdemar series.
Re-read 2017
This book is the first in the duology about Herald Alberich the weapons master during the Arrows of the Queen trilogy. He's originally from Karse the "archenemies" of Valdemar and this book tells the story of how he came to be a herald and a part of the collegium. I loved the book, I was always fascinated by this gruff, slightly standoffish herald. Someone who is technically the exact opposite of what you think a herald would be. I suggest reading this after you finish after the Arrows of the Queen trilogy, as well as the Mage Winds and Mage Wars trilogies. I also suggest reading Skif's book "Take a Thief".
September 20, 2016
I had determined long ago that I would not spend time on this author - I felt her books far too emotionally manipulative, as I remember it, and yes, you're cheering along with the heroes, but the way they're written, there's really not much choice. I had read the Arrows of the Queen trilogy and then I think I tried one other book, the title of which I can't remember at the moment, and that sealed it.
I'll admit, though, that I had a weak moment or 2 as stress built with the approach of a new term and I thought I might try another - this ended up being a good choice, and though I won't say I'm a fan, I think I just might try the 2nd book that continues Alberich's story.
I'll admit, though, that I had a weak moment or 2 as stress built with the approach of a new term and I thought I might try another - this ended up being a good choice, and though I won't say I'm a fan, I think I just might try the 2nd book that continues Alberich's story.
December 21, 2020
I had read this before, and had obviously liked it, as I'd shelved it with the original Arrows trilogy and the Vows and Honor duology, which I still think are her best work (other series and stand-alones of Lackey's I have relegated to my shelves in the basement). It's only the second time I've read it and I'd forgotten it, so it was almost like reading it for the first time.
Sometimes I think Lackey employs a not-very-proficient ghost writer; her work is so uneven. Some, though never by any stretch of the imagination great literature, is most enjoyable and has more substance than just genre fan-pleasing. Some of it is, seriously, junk. This one falls into the former category, even if she shamelessly includes herself as a character in it! Alberich is one of the more interesting characters in the series and his story was compelling. Also perhaps because he is a more... mature character, we avoid some of the rather silly drama king or queen behaviour her younger ones sometimes indulge in (I was SO disappointed in the way she portrayed Elspeth in her own trilogy, when she'd been introduced as a serious and sensible child earlier on). Here, I could have done without the Yoda-esque "heartless, he is" diction that is intended to capture a "Karsite" accent, but I thoroughly liked Alberich and found the last few chapters of this story quite moving.
Sometimes I think Lackey employs a not-very-proficient ghost writer; her work is so uneven. Some, though never by any stretch of the imagination great literature, is most enjoyable and has more substance than just genre fan-pleasing. Some of it is, seriously, junk. This one falls into the former category, even if she shamelessly includes herself as a character in it! Alberich is one of the more interesting characters in the series and his story was compelling. Also perhaps because he is a more... mature character, we avoid some of the rather silly drama king or queen behaviour her younger ones sometimes indulge in (I was SO disappointed in the way she portrayed Elspeth in her own trilogy, when she'd been introduced as a serious and sensible child earlier on). Here, I could have done without the Yoda-esque "heartless, he is" diction that is intended to capture a "Karsite" accent, but I thoroughly liked Alberich and found the last few chapters of this story quite moving.
July 14, 2018
Alberich is a Karsite Captain who has hidden his talent for getting glimpses of the future. In Karse, that can send you to the fires. Then one day he can't keep it hidden any more. As he is about to be burned, his new, white horse rescues him. And speaks to him? Badly injured, he carried away and stays conscious just long enough to realize he his in Valemar and this is a demon horse he is riding.
Kantor, his new Companion stays on the edges of his mind as he is healed and then introduces himself more as Alberich recovers. Things move quickly and Alberich is barely out of the healer's care when he finds himself second to the Weaponmaster of the Collegium and then the body guard to the Princess Selanay.
As time passes, he becomes invaluable to the Herald's, especially when ware finally comes from the Karse border.
How do you quantify a book that doesn't even feel like you are reading? You are immersed in this world, turning pages so fast and so automatically that you don't even realize. Then when it's done, you find yourself blinking in confusion as you realize that you don't have a Companion or a gift and you aren't at the Collegium.
That is what a Mercedes Lackey book is like for me.
Kantor, his new Companion stays on the edges of his mind as he is healed and then introduces himself more as Alberich recovers. Things move quickly and Alberich is barely out of the healer's care when he finds himself second to the Weaponmaster of the Collegium and then the body guard to the Princess Selanay.
As time passes, he becomes invaluable to the Herald's, especially when ware finally comes from the Karse border.
How do you quantify a book that doesn't even feel like you are reading? You are immersed in this world, turning pages so fast and so automatically that you don't even realize. Then when it's done, you find yourself blinking in confusion as you realize that you don't have a Companion or a gift and you aren't at the Collegium.
That is what a Mercedes Lackey book is like for me.
September 16, 2019
Heralds of Valdemar Prequels: 1
Author is trying to cram historical background for her (then) main series with bare regard for characterization, much less plot, which is criminal, because the setup for the main character has so much potential. The beginning is interesting, but Alberich settles in to his new country with only token protest. Then there's timeskips to cover all the span the author intends. Lazy storytelling with lots of deus ex to move things along. The first skip is four years and even after being immersed in the culture, Alberich still doesn't have the speech pattern right, which seems very unrealistic. This book was easy to put down and not come back to. The author's immensely annoying love of italics made for frustrating reading - it imparts a nagging/pedantic/condescending undertone to the narrative style. Nevertheless, has a good ending.
Author is trying to cram historical background for her (then) main series with bare regard for characterization, much less plot, which is criminal, because the setup for the main character has so much potential. The beginning is interesting, but Alberich settles in to his new country with only token protest. Then there's timeskips to cover all the span the author intends. Lazy storytelling with lots of deus ex to move things along. The first skip is four years and even after being immersed in the culture, Alberich still doesn't have the speech pattern right, which seems very unrealistic. This book was easy to put down and not come back to. The author's immensely annoying love of italics made for frustrating reading - it imparts a nagging/pedantic/condescending undertone to the narrative style. Nevertheless, has a good ending.
May 15, 2023
This book follows the history of Alberich, who becomes the Weapons Master for the Herald College. In this novel we learn that he was trained as a cadet and becomes a captain in the Karsite empire. He is chosen as a herald and this tale follows his life and integration in the college of Heralds of Valdemar. The timeline is just prior to the "Queen's Arrow" series. We see his become a Herald, take part in the Tedral war that causes the death of King Sendar and starts the rein of Queen Selenay.
Good story, lots of adventure and battles.
Good story, lots of adventure and battles.
January 12, 2022
I'd always wondered about Alberich's backstory; it didn't disappoint :)
March 26, 2019
Thanks, I loved it!
September 13, 2023
I can't be objective about these books
November 23, 2022
Having read the arrows series previously, answers a bunch of questions that have bothered me. I feel for Albrich and I am excited to see what lies in the 2nd volume. Very nice bow at the end of the climax.
December 20, 2022
Lackey continues her foray into character studies with one of the most interesting characters she ever wrote (at least in my opinion): Alberich. He’s seen in bits and pieces through other novels along the Valdemar timeline, the Collegium’s Weaponsmaster and resident talks-like-Yoda guy, but before this exploration, little was known about him beyond the fact that he’s a hard taskmaster and that he was originally from Karse, Valdemar’s ancient enemy.
The story starts with Alberich still in Karse, prior to being Chosen, where he’s in a good position in the army and struggling to hide Gifts which could get him killed if revealed. And naturally, he’s discovered, and put to death by purifying fire. He is rescued, of course, by his Companion Kantor, and whisked across the border to Valdemar, where he is met with a less-than-friendly reception.
The first part of this book is largely a coming-of-age type of story, in which Alberich is not only trying to recover from the burns and injuries sustained at the hands of the people he once fought for, but also coming to grips with the fact that Valdemar and Heralds are not evil as he had been taught all his life. Trying to reconcile that the world is not as he thought, as well as discovering just who and what that makes him, takes up a great deal of the first half of the book. Those who enjoy a good bit of introspection and character development will love this, as it goes into great detail about a man we have only seen glimpses of previously.
The second half of the book has far more action in it. Karse has hired the Tedrel mercenaries, enough soldiers-for-hire to populate a nation, and has sent them after Valdemar. And Alberich is stuck in Haven, unable to fight on the front lines due to accusations of divided loyalty between his new life as a Herald and his old life in Karse. But when push comes to shove, he’s sent into battle, along with every other available Herald (including the monarch and heir to the throne) to fight for their lives and freedom. Much of the instrospection is left behind in favour of the grim realities of war.
Though true to Lackey’s typical style, things don’t get too grim, and while there’s a well-deserved sense of tension and urgency, it’s still easy enough to step back and understand that what you’re reading is almost an idealized version of war. People die, and messily, but it’s still somewhat sanitized. The good guys will win because the good guys win. Definitely something to read if you want your spirits bolstered, but to be avoided if what you’re looking for is a realistic portrayal of a battlefield.
Like Brightly Burning and Take a Thief, this character study novel is a fascinating one, very fun and swift to read, whether or not you’re reading the action of fighting or the circular thoughts of a very confused man. And unlike both of those novels, this one plays a very central role in understanding vital pieces of Valdemaran history. What Brightly Burning did to reveal more details about passing mentions of events, Exile’s Honor did better, and it shows in the way that this book grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Of all the character study novels that Lackey has written in this world, I wholeheartedly recommend this (and it’s sequel, Exile’s Valor) to just about anyone. It stands on its own and also provides great detail into a fictional country I have come to know and love so much.
The story starts with Alberich still in Karse, prior to being Chosen, where he’s in a good position in the army and struggling to hide Gifts which could get him killed if revealed. And naturally, he’s discovered, and put to death by purifying fire. He is rescued, of course, by his Companion Kantor, and whisked across the border to Valdemar, where he is met with a less-than-friendly reception.
The first part of this book is largely a coming-of-age type of story, in which Alberich is not only trying to recover from the burns and injuries sustained at the hands of the people he once fought for, but also coming to grips with the fact that Valdemar and Heralds are not evil as he had been taught all his life. Trying to reconcile that the world is not as he thought, as well as discovering just who and what that makes him, takes up a great deal of the first half of the book. Those who enjoy a good bit of introspection and character development will love this, as it goes into great detail about a man we have only seen glimpses of previously.
The second half of the book has far more action in it. Karse has hired the Tedrel mercenaries, enough soldiers-for-hire to populate a nation, and has sent them after Valdemar. And Alberich is stuck in Haven, unable to fight on the front lines due to accusations of divided loyalty between his new life as a Herald and his old life in Karse. But when push comes to shove, he’s sent into battle, along with every other available Herald (including the monarch and heir to the throne) to fight for their lives and freedom. Much of the instrospection is left behind in favour of the grim realities of war.
Though true to Lackey’s typical style, things don’t get too grim, and while there’s a well-deserved sense of tension and urgency, it’s still easy enough to step back and understand that what you’re reading is almost an idealized version of war. People die, and messily, but it’s still somewhat sanitized. The good guys will win because the good guys win. Definitely something to read if you want your spirits bolstered, but to be avoided if what you’re looking for is a realistic portrayal of a battlefield.
Like Brightly Burning and Take a Thief, this character study novel is a fascinating one, very fun and swift to read, whether or not you’re reading the action of fighting or the circular thoughts of a very confused man. And unlike both of those novels, this one plays a very central role in understanding vital pieces of Valdemaran history. What Brightly Burning did to reveal more details about passing mentions of events, Exile’s Honor did better, and it shows in the way that this book grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Of all the character study novels that Lackey has written in this world, I wholeheartedly recommend this (and it’s sequel, Exile’s Valor) to just about anyone. It stands on its own and also provides great detail into a fictional country I have come to know and love so much.
March 30, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! I found this while second-hand shopping and I just couldn't leave without it! I even got emotional at the end of it, and I'm so happy I read it. I'm so glad this story has a sequel, and I will absolutely be reading it.
November 1, 2012
Mercedes Lackey’s Valdemar series provides one of the cornerstones of my reading history. After discovering her when quite young, I still follow new additions to the series - nearly twenty years later! I read and re-read these books over and over again throughout my youth, but I haven't re-read this series in its entirety in a long time - and never as an adult. There are some new books added to the series since the last time I read them, so this re-reading project is pretty exciting for me since it will include these new volumes, and will be in a new order. These books really just remind me of being young, reading them in the back seat of the car on family road trips... I think I was in 4th or 5th grade when I first started reading them, and they've always been a pleasure to re-read - and I am sure this will continue to be the case! The Valdemar series is broken up into (for the most part) separate trilogies. In my re-reading project, I am going to try to read them chronologically - not by publication date, but by their timeline within the series.
And finally in my re-reading project, I have reached a book in the series that I have never read! Alberich is, of course, a familiar character from The Heralds of Valdemar trilogy, but here Lackey has backtracked to provide a fuller view into just how this man from Karse became a Herald. Alberich is a wonderful character - and I really enjoy his role in the later books. Because of this, the overall plot here is rather predictable, but readers discovering him for the first time may be taken by surprise. It’s a fun read - and made all the more so by the way it seems that Mercedes Lackey literally wrote herself into the book! A new character, Myste, is introduced as the Herald-Chronicler (Mercedes Lackey’s nickname is Misti! - and what better way to describe herself than the “Chronicler”??). Myste is a fun character - and it would be interesting to know if Lackey is as near-sighted as her fictional counterpart! I am interested to see where Alberich’s story goes next in the the follow-up volume, Exile's Valor.
And finally in my re-reading project, I have reached a book in the series that I have never read! Alberich is, of course, a familiar character from The Heralds of Valdemar trilogy, but here Lackey has backtracked to provide a fuller view into just how this man from Karse became a Herald. Alberich is a wonderful character - and I really enjoy his role in the later books. Because of this, the overall plot here is rather predictable, but readers discovering him for the first time may be taken by surprise. It’s a fun read - and made all the more so by the way it seems that Mercedes Lackey literally wrote herself into the book! A new character, Myste, is introduced as the Herald-Chronicler (Mercedes Lackey’s nickname is Misti! - and what better way to describe herself than the “Chronicler”??). Myste is a fun character - and it would be interesting to know if Lackey is as near-sighted as her fictional counterpart! I am interested to see where Alberich’s story goes next in the the follow-up volume, Exile's Valor.
June 24, 2022
I haven't read anything else by the same author so some of my opinions may be colored by not being familiar with the greater series here.
I found this pretty lacking. Valdemar and its leaders are presented as one dimensionally good, just, and fair. That despite their system of government being a divine-right-of-kings monarchy (just how concepts of plurality, equality before the law, and so on, could develop under such a system is never explored unless we are to assume the Valdemarans' magic telepathic horses are responsible).
The protagonist's central dilemma is whether to ally with Valdemar, which has taken him in, at the risk of hurting people from his home country Karse, but don't worry Karse hires some sub-human mercenaries so it's never a problem.
Speaking of dehumanizing people, the sections where Alberich writes off anyone who patronizes drinking establishments in certain parts of the city as "scum" and works out his frustrations by getting in fights with them left a bad taste in my mouth. As for that matter did the casual throwing around of the word "whore" and the dismissal with that term of any woman who'd spent more than a certain amount of time as a captive of the mercenaries.
It's full of stock characters; the upstanding king, the feisty princess, the stern older warrior, none of whom are developed beyond those simple sketches. Amidst all the pseudo-archaic names, one character being named "Myste" (pronounced "Misty" by the audiobook narrator) made me laugh out loud. She's tentatively presented as a potential love interest for the protagonist, but (like so many things in this book) that never goes anywhere.
The Karsite priests use invisible night-stalking demons we are told. Great! Sounds interesting. But we never see them, and they are never a factor in the story. Perhaps those are explored in other novels in the series. This definitely bears all the hallmarks of being a prequel exploring the origins of characters, and hemmed in by what has already been established about them.
All in all, simplistic and forgettable, unfortunately.
I found this pretty lacking. Valdemar and its leaders are presented as one dimensionally good, just, and fair. That despite their system of government being a divine-right-of-kings monarchy (just how concepts of plurality, equality before the law, and so on, could develop under such a system is never explored unless we are to assume the Valdemarans' magic telepathic horses are responsible).
The protagonist's central dilemma is whether to ally with Valdemar, which has taken him in, at the risk of hurting people from his home country Karse, but don't worry Karse hires some sub-human mercenaries so it's never a problem.
Speaking of dehumanizing people, the sections where Alberich writes off anyone who patronizes drinking establishments in certain parts of the city as "scum" and works out his frustrations by getting in fights with them left a bad taste in my mouth. As for that matter did the casual throwing around of the word "whore" and the dismissal with that term of any woman who'd spent more than a certain amount of time as a captive of the mercenaries.
It's full of stock characters; the upstanding king, the feisty princess, the stern older warrior, none of whom are developed beyond those simple sketches. Amidst all the pseudo-archaic names, one character being named "Myste" (pronounced "Misty" by the audiobook narrator) made me laugh out loud. She's tentatively presented as a potential love interest for the protagonist, but (like so many things in this book) that never goes anywhere.
The Karsite priests use invisible night-stalking demons we are told. Great! Sounds interesting. But we never see them, and they are never a factor in the story. Perhaps those are explored in other novels in the series. This definitely bears all the hallmarks of being a prequel exploring the origins of characters, and hemmed in by what has already been established about them.
All in all, simplistic and forgettable, unfortunately.
September 3, 2013
This 2002 novel was the first of a modern trio of books revisiting the Collegium in the period leading up to the original Valdemar books (the Arrows of the Queen trilogy). This volume recounts how Alberich became a Herald, leaving Valdemar's enemy Karse for exile in Haven as Weaponmaster Second. In the process, he finds a way to fit in, to build his reputation, and to become part of the history of that era.
The book is enjoyable, and a nice insight into one of the more myserious / forboding characters of that period in Valdemar. It's hurt a bit by needing Alberich to be so very uber at the things he does (like Wolverine, he's the best there is at what he does, but what he doesn't isn't always very nice), which is convenient but not convincingly established. It's also hurt by having to fit his story arc into the long-known history of the Tedrel Wars and their tragic outcome, which sends the story down a fairly predictable pair of rails. Alberich's acceptance into the Heralds doesn't go without a hitch (even with the bonds of the Companions to ease it), but it also feels, in many ways, too easy, mostly talked about peripherally rather than confronted head-on, and rarely a challenge, let alone a setback, for the character.
Despite all that (or perhaps because of it), it's a pleasant read nonetheless, one I've not gone back to since the book was first published, but am glad I did once again.
The book is enjoyable, and a nice insight into one of the more myserious / forboding characters of that period in Valdemar. It's hurt a bit by needing Alberich to be so very uber at the things he does (like Wolverine, he's the best there is at what he does, but what he doesn't isn't always very nice), which is convenient but not convincingly established. It's also hurt by having to fit his story arc into the long-known history of the Tedrel Wars and their tragic outcome, which sends the story down a fairly predictable pair of rails. Alberich's acceptance into the Heralds doesn't go without a hitch (even with the bonds of the Companions to ease it), but it also feels, in many ways, too easy, mostly talked about peripherally rather than confronted head-on, and rarely a challenge, let alone a setback, for the character.
Despite all that (or perhaps because of it), it's a pleasant read nonetheless, one I've not gone back to since the book was first published, but am glad I did once again.
September 17, 2009
This is the first book by Mercedes Lackey that I recall reading, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that it is solid fantasy - not extraordinary, but just good and satisfying, like chocolate cake - and excellent escapist reading.
This was my first introduction to the world of Valdemar, and I'm impressed that I never felt that there was something I should have known but didn't. I'm also impressed that, with the exception of names and a few random words (like "chava"), the author doesn't use a lot of those trite made-up words that are so common in fantasy, and instead writes simply but solidly, in plain language that doesn't detract from the story (again, with a few exceptions, like the word "prevaricate," which popped up more than once). I expected cliched fantasy, and while the elements of cliches are there, they fit neatly into the story.
It's a long book, and could have used some serious editing - there are quite a few redundancies, at least a few sentences and paragraphs could have been cut out completely, and the story is often slowed by less-than-important dialogue. This didn't bother me terribly, but by three-quarters of the way, I was starting to wonder if the book would ever would end.
But it was still worth my time, and I find myself looking forward to reading more of Ms. Lackey's books.
This was my first introduction to the world of Valdemar, and I'm impressed that I never felt that there was something I should have known but didn't. I'm also impressed that, with the exception of names and a few random words (like "chava"), the author doesn't use a lot of those trite made-up words that are so common in fantasy, and instead writes simply but solidly, in plain language that doesn't detract from the story (again, with a few exceptions, like the word "prevaricate," which popped up more than once). I expected cliched fantasy, and while the elements of cliches are there, they fit neatly into the story.
It's a long book, and could have used some serious editing - there are quite a few redundancies, at least a few sentences and paragraphs could have been cut out completely, and the story is often slowed by less-than-important dialogue. This didn't bother me terribly, but by three-quarters of the way, I was starting to wonder if the book would ever would end.
But it was still worth my time, and I find myself looking forward to reading more of Ms. Lackey's books.
September 29, 2010
I'm a fan of Lackey's Valdemar books, and was excited to see a new one when I first saw this in stores, yet the first time I tried it, I couldn't even finish it. There are books in the series I'd recommend that could make you a fan of them: such as the books about Vanyel (The Last Herald Mage trilogy starting with Magic's Pawn) or about Talia (Heralds of Valdemar trilogy starting with Arrows of the Queen). Then there are the books that if you do find you love this world, I could recommend buying (like the Mage Winds or Mage Storms series). This book however, I can't recommend except to a hardcore fan.
It seems to suffer from tired blood, and it also had an element that was so jarring it stopped me reading on my first try. Alberich's love interest, Myste, a non-athletic bookworm Herald and Chronicler, screamed "Mary Sue." (Lackey's nickname is "Misty.")
Recently I went on a nostalgic binge of reading and rereading Lackey's Valdemar books, and tried this again. It's not a terrible book exactly, readable and enjoyable if you love this world and want to spend time with it, but I still feel it's not up to the standard of the best of her writing.
It seems to suffer from tired blood, and it also had an element that was so jarring it stopped me reading on my first try. Alberich's love interest, Myste, a non-athletic bookworm Herald and Chronicler, screamed "Mary Sue." (Lackey's nickname is "Misty.")
Recently I went on a nostalgic binge of reading and rereading Lackey's Valdemar books, and tried this again. It's not a terrible book exactly, readable and enjoyable if you love this world and want to spend time with it, but I still feel it's not up to the standard of the best of her writing.
June 8, 2012
Alberich is a great character and I thoroughly enjoyed the religious philosophy in this book as well as Alberich's soul-searching concerning his honor. I worry sometimes that honor is a concept that is fast getting lost in today's world, so it was wonderful to see a whole book set around this theme. I know it made me think a bit harder about faith, power, corruption, tolerance, and greed, just to name a few concepts that are highlighted by the book. Of course, all the philosophy made the action in the book a bit slow, but I consider it a worthwhile trade-off. The war scenes at the end sped the action up considerably. The image of Alberich defending Selenay from forty or more Tedrels will stay in my mind for some time, it was so real and immediate. The details of being a warrior, both training and fighting, I found fascinating and believable. Lackey did a great job on this one and I can see re-reading it at some future date for a deeper look.
July 10, 2022
Alberich, a mounted officer in Karsite, on a white horse given to him by the Sunpriest's has been having visions of things that are going to happen in the very near future. Not sure if he's being a heretic in following them, he does know that he is saving the lives of the villagers when he acts upon them. The last time he does he is found out by a black robed priest and is to be burned, but his horse, a companion in disguise rescues him and gets him across the border into Valdemar.
After being healed he learns that because of being chosen, he's considered a Herald in training. When asked what is most important in his life he says "Honor".
He is given the job as weaponsmaster under Denthor. And helps him train the new herald trainee's plus working with the other students and the guard. One of those he works with and is assigned to guard is Selenay, the heir to the throne.
After being healed he learns that because of being chosen, he's considered a Herald in training. When asked what is most important in his life he says "Honor".
He is given the job as weaponsmaster under Denthor. And helps him train the new herald trainee's plus working with the other students and the guard. One of those he works with and is assigned to guard is Selenay, the heir to the throne.
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