Take a photo of a barcode or cover
whisper88's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Rape, Suicidal thoughts, and Fire/Fire injury
Minor: Pedophilia and Abortion
heliotropepajamas's review
adventurous
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Rereading a series I remember not liking terribly much as a teen back in the 90s/00s, and lo and behold I don't think much of it as an adult in the 20s.
Giving it some slack since it is literally the first time we visit Valdemar, and I liked Talia's beginning story and the introduction to Heralds and the Collegium. It's always interesting to see where things start and how far they deviate as the world continues along.
Solid beginning in the first book, a second book that could easily have been omitted without losing anything, and a third book that is all over the place. On the one hand I appreciated a bit of adventuring and seeing kingdoms other than Valdemar, but could have done without the lovelorn wallowing at the beginning and the torture bits had me really wondering why the series is still considered YA. Are we really going to have a one sentence gang-rape? In a YA story? Everything else in that section was traumatic enough without its inclusion. . The villain was also pretty obvious from book two onward so the ending wasn't that big a reveal.
On a side note, I am not a fan of omnibus editions. They are awkwardly bulky for those who read on the go, it's hard to take a breather between stories, and I always feel vaguely cheated out of my book stats.
Giving it some slack since it is literally the first time we visit Valdemar, and I liked Talia's beginning story and the introduction to Heralds and the Collegium. It's always interesting to see where things start and how far they deviate as the world continues along.
Solid beginning in the first book, a second book that could easily have been omitted without losing anything, and a third book that is all over the place. On the one hand I appreciated a bit of adventuring and seeing kingdoms other than Valdemar, but could have done without the lovelorn wallowing at the beginning and the torture bits had me really wondering why the series is still considered YA.
On a side note, I am not a fan of omnibus editions. They are awkwardly bulky for those who read on the go, it's hard to take a breather between stories, and I always feel vaguely cheated out of my book stats.
Content Warnings
Minor: Rape
I don't want to call the rape of a main character minor, but the author only gives it one sentence in the text.ecahilly's review
adventurous
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
reddjena's review against another edition
4.0
Recently, life has thrown me some curveballs, so I decided to re-read a character story that was similar to what I was going through. I found Arrows of the Queen early in life (either junior high or early high school) and loved the story then for almost the same reasons I wanted to read it again now. Also, DAW recently released the trilogy in a single paperback, which rekindled my desire to read the series.
I want to be honest here; I usually skip Arrows Flight in my re-read because not much happens. As one of Mercedes Lackey’s earliest writing endeavors, this trilogy suffers in a couple ways. First, the middle book is almost dead space with most of what is described being too drawn out. This really could have been a beefier duology and been a bit better for it. Second, the pacing is just a little off at times. I like getting to know how Court and Collegium work, and I like getting to learn more about Talia’s friendships, but there aren’t quite enough pages devoted to the action sequences. They read as very abrupt.
Readers who aren’t accustomed to older styles of writing in the fantasy genre may become frustrated or annoyed by the editing presented in the originals. And, I haven’t had the opportunity to examine the new release to see if the editing was updated at all. However, I think the story of acceptance, bullying, family, and adventure overcome these minor negatives.
The reasons why I love this tale are tied to the main character, Talia. As a child, she was raised in a household that didn’t provide love or acceptance for who she was as a person. Then, when she traveled to the capital to become a Herald, she was met with bullies and court intrigue from early on, plus she had to work through her issues of trust, friendship, and communication. Mercedes Lackey shows a great deal of knowledge about the human psyche and emotions. Anyone who wants more LBGTQ, female empowerment, and diversity in their fantasy should check out any of Lackey’s works as she was one of the originals to feature positive reactions and acceptance of what was mostly considered normal (in the worldbuilding) relationships of that nature.
Also, who doesn’t love horse gods :)
I want to be honest here; I usually skip Arrows Flight in my re-read because not much happens. As one of Mercedes Lackey’s earliest writing endeavors, this trilogy suffers in a couple ways. First, the middle book is almost dead space with most of what is described being too drawn out. This really could have been a beefier duology and been a bit better for it. Second, the pacing is just a little off at times. I like getting to know how Court and Collegium work, and I like getting to learn more about Talia’s friendships, but there aren’t quite enough pages devoted to the action sequences. They read as very abrupt.
Readers who aren’t accustomed to older styles of writing in the fantasy genre may become frustrated or annoyed by the editing presented in the originals. And, I haven’t had the opportunity to examine the new release to see if the editing was updated at all. However, I think the story of acceptance, bullying, family, and adventure overcome these minor negatives.
The reasons why I love this tale are tied to the main character, Talia. As a child, she was raised in a household that didn’t provide love or acceptance for who she was as a person. Then, when she traveled to the capital to become a Herald, she was met with bullies and court intrigue from early on, plus she had to work through her issues of trust, friendship, and communication. Mercedes Lackey shows a great deal of knowledge about the human psyche and emotions. Anyone who wants more LBGTQ, female empowerment, and diversity in their fantasy should check out any of Lackey’s works as she was one of the originals to feature positive reactions and acceptance of what was mostly considered normal (in the worldbuilding) relationships of that nature.
Also, who doesn’t love horse gods :)
meribiaa's review
4.0
This is a good edition. Clear and easy to read, and seamless between the books. I really enjoyed reading it on my kindle.
As for the books, I loved them as a girl, but as a woman I see more of their flaws. It's clearly the first work of Lackey, and shows in some areas that were clumsily handled, but it still keeps me in the story until the end, and Talia remains a fantastic and compelling heroine.
As for the books, I loved them as a girl, but as a woman I see more of their flaws. It's clearly the first work of Lackey, and shows in some areas that were clumsily handled, but it still keeps me in the story until the end, and Talia remains a fantastic and compelling heroine.
sleeping_while_awake's review
3.0
The Complete Arrows Trilogy includes Arrows of the Queen, Arrow's Flight, Arrow's Fall, and lyrics to songs Mercedes Lackey has actually published that relate to the stories.
The books are rather consistent throughout in their execution, although Arrows of the Queen does not really escape from first book by an author syndrome.
Talia, a young girl living on the Border, in a strict polygamist family, runs away from home after she is told on her 13th birthday it is time for her to marry. She hears the sound of hooves, and trips down a hill to land in front of a Chosen, the famous magical and telepathic horses of the Heralds. The Chosen is without a rider, and Talia decides she will ride the horse back to the capital.
In fact, Talia is actually chosen by the Chosen, Rolan, to be a Herald. Being of such a backwater village, Talia is confused as to what is happening. She arrives at the Collegium and is informed not only is she going to be a Herald, she is going to be the Queen's Own, a special adviser to the Queen that is always paired with Rolan.
Of course Talia is completely overwhelmed. She grew up in a household of severe male authority and suppressed emotions. Talia is tasked with drilling some obedience into the Queen's daughter, Elspeth, who is also known as the Brat. Arrows of the Queen follows Talia in her studies to become a Herald and her development into an adult, along with all the bullies and relationship troubles that come as a teen.
When I first read that Talia had to whip up some manners and obedience for Elspeth, I thought it was a really silly plot point. She is essentially the most important Herald, and it is of the utmost importance that she has to make this little brat behave? However, that point has implications that are actually revealed further in the third book, Arrow's Fall, and I would never have realized the significance if I didn't read all three of the books.
Although Talia has a more rare ability, Empathy, and is given such importance, she is a character that has a lot of issues. Lackey doesn't really go into enough character development, so it's easy to classify Talia as someone who always gets everything rights. In fact, she is dealing with PTSD and her magical abilities going awry all three books.
That is my main complaint of the first book, is that the character development is rather cursory. Some of the females Heralds appeared interchangeable to me. There are lesbian couples, and I am assuming gay couples as well (no characters yet that have stated so) among the Heralds, and I appreciated that diversity, considering the contrast to Talia's upbringing. The Heralds have this open acceptance of sexuality, and having relationships that are not so restrictive.
I was reminded of Pern because of the references to Holders living out in the middle of nowhere, and the group of people with an animal that protect the realm (dragonriders vs. Heralds). Granted there is no sci-fi element, but I can see the influences. Later on, I was reminded of Robin Hobb's Fitz, as Talia must be completely loyal to the Queen, and the Herald's abilities reminded me of the Skill. So maybe this series influenced Hobb in some way.
Arrow's Flight and Arrow's Fall are more adult than Arrows of the Queen.
Arrow's Flight follows Talia and the Herald, Kris, on her apprenticeship, riding a circuit in the North near the border. Honestly, I think half of this book was Talia and Kris stuck in a cabin that is snowed in, but this middle book had good character development and conflict created by Talia's lack of control over her power. The border towns have problems that need to be judged/solved by the Heralds.
Arrow's Fall does have rape and torture, although it's not in graphic detail. Talia and Kris venture into the county of Hardon, to investigate a marriage proposal for Elspeth. A subplot is the relationship between Talia and Dirk, and misconceptions about her relationship with Kris. The last book finally pulls in the larger political scheming that was behind the previous books.
Certainly, these stories do show their age compared to more modern fantasy. However, I think it's good nostalgia reading for late 80s fantasy. I did find them at times to be slow because they often focus so tightly on Talia - the rest of the world is blotted out.
I am surprised I did not read Lackey at an earlier age. Magical horses?! In a way, I kind of wished the horses were more magical (no horses throwing magical fireballs unfortunately). The plots are not particularly unique, but I think there is something inherently enjoyable about a young girl magically bonded to a horse growing into and adult and learning her abilities.
Also, this trilogy has lyrics to songs Mercedes Lackey has recorded with other artists. They're all available on Youtube - it's nice to see lyrics that have actually been put to a song!
The books are rather consistent throughout in their execution, although Arrows of the Queen does not really escape from first book by an author syndrome.
Talia, a young girl living on the Border, in a strict polygamist family, runs away from home after she is told on her 13th birthday it is time for her to marry. She hears the sound of hooves, and trips down a hill to land in front of a Chosen, the famous magical and telepathic horses of the Heralds. The Chosen is without a rider, and Talia decides she will ride the horse back to the capital.
In fact, Talia is actually chosen by the Chosen, Rolan, to be a Herald. Being of such a backwater village, Talia is confused as to what is happening. She arrives at the Collegium and is informed not only is she going to be a Herald, she is going to be the Queen's Own, a special adviser to the Queen that is always paired with Rolan.
Of course Talia is completely overwhelmed. She grew up in a household of severe male authority and suppressed emotions. Talia is tasked with drilling some obedience into the Queen's daughter, Elspeth, who is also known as the Brat. Arrows of the Queen follows Talia in her studies to become a Herald and her development into an adult, along with all the bullies and relationship troubles that come as a teen.
When I first read that Talia had to whip up some manners and obedience for Elspeth, I thought it was a really silly plot point. She is essentially the most important Herald, and it is of the utmost importance that she has to make this little brat behave? However, that point has implications that are actually revealed further in the third book, Arrow's Fall, and I would never have realized the significance if I didn't read all three of the books.
Although Talia has a more rare ability, Empathy, and is given such importance, she is a character that has a lot of issues. Lackey doesn't really go into enough character development, so it's easy to classify Talia as someone who always gets everything rights. In fact, she is dealing with PTSD and her magical abilities going awry all three books.
That is my main complaint of the first book, is that the character development is rather cursory. Some of the females Heralds appeared interchangeable to me. There are lesbian couples, and I am assuming gay couples as well (no characters yet that have stated so) among the Heralds, and I appreciated that diversity, considering the contrast to Talia's upbringing. The Heralds have this open acceptance of sexuality, and having relationships that are not so restrictive.
I was reminded of Pern because of the references to Holders living out in the middle of nowhere, and the group of people with an animal that protect the realm (dragonriders vs. Heralds). Granted there is no sci-fi element, but I can see the influences. Later on, I was reminded of Robin Hobb's Fitz, as Talia must be completely loyal to the Queen, and the Herald's abilities reminded me of the Skill. So maybe this series influenced Hobb in some way.
Arrow's Flight and Arrow's Fall are more adult than Arrows of the Queen.
Arrow's Flight follows Talia and the Herald, Kris, on her apprenticeship, riding a circuit in the North near the border. Honestly, I think half of this book was Talia and Kris stuck in a cabin that is snowed in, but this middle book had good character development and conflict created by Talia's lack of control over her power. The border towns have problems that need to be judged/solved by the Heralds.
Arrow's Fall does have rape and torture, although it's not in graphic detail. Talia and Kris venture into the county of Hardon, to investigate a marriage proposal for Elspeth. A subplot is the relationship between Talia and Dirk, and misconceptions about her relationship with Kris. The last book finally pulls in the larger political scheming that was behind the previous books.
Certainly, these stories do show their age compared to more modern fantasy. However, I think it's good nostalgia reading for late 80s fantasy. I did find them at times to be slow because they often focus so tightly on Talia - the rest of the world is blotted out.
I am surprised I did not read Lackey at an earlier age. Magical horses?! In a way, I kind of wished the horses were more magical (no horses throwing magical fireballs unfortunately). The plots are not particularly unique, but I think there is something inherently enjoyable about a young girl magically bonded to a horse growing into and adult and learning her abilities.
Also, this trilogy has lyrics to songs Mercedes Lackey has recorded with other artists. They're all available on Youtube - it's nice to see lyrics that have actually been put to a song!
freckles73's review against another edition
2.0
It was very drawn out & not very well written. The storyline’s interesting but predictable
dreams_of_attolia's review against another edition
3.0
Pretty entertaining. The world was unique enough to be interesting. Unlike a lot of other "high" fantasy it's not "epic," which we all know I have had my fill of. I have appreciate that Lackey deals with mature issues and that her characters have flaws. This isn't going to be one of my all-time-favs that I re-read over and over, but I enjoyed the world and the writing enough that I will pick up other books in this series. Oh, and all of the songs are in an appendix at the end! So you can check them out if you want, but it allows her to keep the plot going while people are singing.
xeni's review against another edition
5.0
This was the second series that I had ever read in the Valdemar Universe. And it freaked me out a bit. I am surprised that Lackey started with Talia when she started writing... jumped right in there and took one of the scariest situations ever for a woman and wrote it into book three. I suppose if you made it through book one and two, you'd be a little more prepared for what happens in the last book, but I certainly wasn't.
Still, it didn't put me off the series, or the world! I love Valdemar so much (can I move there?!?) that even (or especially because) Lackey deals with such controversial issues such as torture, rape, child labor, etc I am still interested. I suppose part of that is due to the fact that her heroes and heroine's always manage to come out on top one way or another!
Talia is not my favorite character. She's just too sweet, too shy and too cute for me. But I do love some of the side characters that appear in this series!
Still, it didn't put me off the series, or the world! I love Valdemar so much (can I move there?!?) that even (or especially because) Lackey deals with such controversial issues such as torture, rape, child labor, etc I am still interested. I suppose part of that is due to the fact that her heroes and heroine's always manage to come out on top one way or another!
Talia is not my favorite character. She's just too sweet, too shy and too cute for me. But I do love some of the side characters that appear in this series!
aklatlibro's review
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Content Warnings
Minor: Rape