A review by bibliophilicwitch
Valdemar by Mercedes Lackey

adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Each of the books of the Founding trilogy feels a bit different. Beyond was political intrigue and escape, Into the West was survival, and Valdemar held a looming threat though really it was about the arrival of the Companions and we just needed some kind of conflict for plot. I liked that the final book took place ten years after the last so we could get a feel for the early days of our beloved Valdemar and capital of Haven. We also got to see what Kordas's kids were like as young adults and I especially liked seeing them all picking up roles in the kingdom. Of course, I was particularly excited for the Companions, but Kordas's penchant of overthinking and Lackey's decision to write out every long rambling diatribe of his thoughts - which feels like sloppy writing - also led to the setup of their arrival to feel off to me. Once they were there, though, I was all in my feels as the Heralds became a unit and recognized by the people. Did I find some of the writing frustrating? Sure, but as another installment of a series that simply brings me joy I can't really complain.