Closer to Home
by Mercedes Lackey is part of
the Valdemar universe and signals the start of a new arc in the ‘Herald
Spy’ series which features Mags and Amily as they are abruptly thrust
into roles of greater responsibility. An unusual occurrence results in
an unprecedented transfer and the framework for the spy network that he
is setting up requires that Mags utilize everything that Nikolas has
taught him plus his own innate sense of what will work and how to
achieve what he wants from the tools at hand. Changes are at hand in
Valdemar, and it’s up to Mags and Amily to make sure that the changes
are for the better.I never cease to be amazed by the textures that are inherent in this well-established and intricately complex fantasy world. The realism is such that I am instantly transported to one of my favorite universes whenever I open one of this author’s books, yet there are plenty of aspects of society there that are yet to be explored. The fascinating melding of fact and fantasy (e.g. the implications of performing CPR and its repercussions) provide thought-provoking interludes even as the sobering look at the undersociety of the kingdom and the struggle to survive with limited resources and education gives realism to the tale. I love watching Mags and his colleagues mature over the course of the series, even as I cringe at the crucible that he is undergoing, and it has been heartwarming watching Amily bloom. I think that it would be a little challenging to be introduced to the complexities of Valdemar without any prior experience but that a reader new to the overall arc of these stories would still be able to appreciate the basic premises of this exciting tale and probably would search for other stories set in this world. This is a great addition that any fan of Valdemar will appreciate and I look forward to discovering what new adventures these characters find as they continue to grow into their new roles.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
The 'Herald Collegium' series contains the start of Mags' story.
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