What do you think?
Rate this book
Tales of Valdemar #12
Choices
The twelfth anthology of short stories set in the beloved Valdemar universe, featuring stories by debut and established authors and a brand-new story from Lackey herself.
The Heralds of Valdemar are the kingdom’s ancient order of protectors. They are drawn from all across the land, from all walks of life, and at all ages–and all are Gifted with abilities beyond those of normal men and women. They are Mindspeakers, FarSeers, Empaths, ForeSeers, Firestarters, FarSpeakers, and more. These inborn talents–combined with training as emissaries, spies, judges, diplomats, scouts, counselors, warriors, and more–make them indispensable to their monarch and realm. Sought and Chosen by mysterious horse-like Companions, they are bonded for life to these telepathic, enigmatic creatures. The Heralds of Valdemar and their Companions ride circuit throughout the kingdom, protecting the peace and, when necessary, defending their land and monarch.
Now, twenty-three authors ride with Mercedes Lackey to her magical land of Valdemar, adding their own unique voices to the Heralds, Bards, Healers, and other heroes of this beloved fantasy realm.
The Heralds of Valdemar are the kingdom’s ancient order of protectors. They are drawn from all across the land, from all walks of life, and at all ages–and all are Gifted with abilities beyond those of normal men and women. They are Mindspeakers, FarSeers, Empaths, ForeSeers, Firestarters, FarSpeakers, and more. These inborn talents–combined with training as emissaries, spies, judges, diplomats, scouts, counselors, warriors, and more–make them indispensable to their monarch and realm. Sought and Chosen by mysterious horse-like Companions, they are bonded for life to these telepathic, enigmatic creatures. The Heralds of Valdemar and their Companions ride circuit throughout the kingdom, protecting the peace and, when necessary, defending their land and monarch.
Now, twenty-three authors ride with Mercedes Lackey to her magical land of Valdemar, adding their own unique voices to the Heralds, Bards, Healers, and other heroes of this beloved fantasy realm.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2018
212 people are currently reading
807 people want to read
About the author
Mercedes Lackey
432 books9,561 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
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 27, 2018
Worthy addition to Valdemar anthologies.
I always love stepping into the world of Valdemar! This collection of tales from such a magical place, always full of adventure is the equivalent of a chocolate lover's guilty pleasure.
Here be stories that encompass the known lands that are part of the Valdemar experience.
Written by a league of talented authors who love this universe Mercedes has created, 'Choices' brings those of us who have a long time relationship with Valdemar fresh new voices to enjoy. If however you're dabbling for the first time this is a portal into a startlingly different world.
A NetGalley ARC
I always love stepping into the world of Valdemar! This collection of tales from such a magical place, always full of adventure is the equivalent of a chocolate lover's guilty pleasure.
Here be stories that encompass the known lands that are part of the Valdemar experience.
Written by a league of talented authors who love this universe Mercedes has created, 'Choices' brings those of us who have a long time relationship with Valdemar fresh new voices to enjoy. If however you're dabbling for the first time this is a portal into a startlingly different world.
A NetGalley ARC
October 24, 2020
Great collection of valdemar stories. A little hit or miss as always with a collection, but the one by Mercedes Lackey was a great way to end it. She is always a champion of telling the stories of people who don't often see themselves in fiction and this one is a great addition. Obvious use of both Need and the change circle, it is a timely and excellent story. I also liked Weight of a thousand eyes - no one ever thinks about the poor mages who are born in valdemar, and the bitterness of exile. Great on both counts.
October 20, 2023
"Little things matter most. Little things are no little."
With Sorrow and Joy: These Heralds come from shite families, don’t they?
Of Crows and Karsites: I wonder why I’ve never seem Mirideh mentioned at all after this if she’s a mindhealer from Karse before the mage wars. She should at least as well known as Alberich
Feathers in Deed: A sequel to a story I read in Crucible. Nice to see. Reference to ASL
The Letter of the Law: Dash (here) and Linx (two stories back) are the most normal Companion names I think I’ve ever seen.
Unceasing Consequences: I feel like I missed a story in between Crucible and here where lady Cera actually GETS some chirras
Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted: Is this the blind girl from Demon’s Den?
Moving On: just a rando healer origin story. But using a fetching gift to heal disease is different
The Right Place: a non herald/healer/bard rescuing some Shin’a’in horses
A Siege of Cranes: Lena I’m the girl from the fish story right?
Cloud Born: I really need to see the origin of this cloud walking story set. Since in the collegium chronicles mags couldn’t bond with his companion unless he made eye contact but Brock here is blind...?
Letters from Home: Meh story
Friendship’s Gift: again I feel like I’m missing some set up here about who all these people are
Confounding, Enduring, Perfect, and Strong: more kyree please
The Once and Future Box: A treasure box adventure okay
Acceptable Losses: is the Ivy from the last story mentioned from when the box was buried the same little girl ivy here?
Weight of a Hundred Eyes: I’m not sure what believed here but I’m guessing it takes place about a generation after Vanyel does the vrondi spell and the barrier?
Women’s Need Calls Me: read previously in the Vows and Honor anthology
With Sorrow and Joy: These Heralds come from shite families, don’t they?
Of Crows and Karsites: I wonder why I’ve never seem Mirideh mentioned at all after this if she’s a mindhealer from Karse before the mage wars. She should at least as well known as Alberich
Feathers in Deed: A sequel to a story I read in Crucible. Nice to see. Reference to ASL
The Letter of the Law: Dash (here) and Linx (two stories back) are the most normal Companion names I think I’ve ever seen.
Unceasing Consequences: I feel like I missed a story in between Crucible and here where lady Cera actually GETS some chirras
Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted: Is this the blind girl from Demon’s Den?
Moving On: just a rando healer origin story. But using a fetching gift to heal disease is different
The Right Place: a non herald/healer/bard rescuing some Shin’a’in horses
A Siege of Cranes: Lena I’m the girl from the fish story right?
Cloud Born: I really need to see the origin of this cloud walking story set. Since in the collegium chronicles mags couldn’t bond with his companion unless he made eye contact but Brock here is blind...?
Letters from Home: Meh story
Friendship’s Gift: again I feel like I’m missing some set up here about who all these people are
Confounding, Enduring, Perfect, and Strong: more kyree please
The Once and Future Box: A treasure box adventure okay
Acceptable Losses: is the Ivy from the last story mentioned from when the box was buried the same little girl ivy here?
Weight of a Hundred Eyes: I’m not sure what believed here but I’m guessing it takes place about a generation after Vanyel does the vrondi spell and the barrier?
Women’s Need Calls Me: read previously in the Vows and Honor anthology
November 28, 2022
The twelfth anthology of eighteen stories in the Tales of Valdemar fantasy series and revolving around Heralds, Companions, Healers, and regular people.
The Series
"Feathers in Deed" (Hadara and Kitha, 3)
"Who We'll Become" (Herald Syrriah, 5)
"Unceasing Consequences" (Lady Cera of Sandbriar, 5)
"Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted" (Kaysa of Ropewynd, 3)
"Moving On" (Deira the Weaver, 3)
"The Right Place" (Petril, 2)
"A Siege of Cranes" (Lena, 6)
"Letters From Home" (Marli of Fairbend, 3)
"Friendship's Gift" (Healer Tarek Strand, 2)
"Confounding, Enduring, Perfect, and Strong" (Nwah the Kyree, 5)
"The Once and Future Box" (Dann Family of Haven, 9)
"Acceptable Losses" (Wil & Leila, 9)
"Woman's Need Calls Me" (Need / Vows & Honor, pre-Kerowyn)
Each short story has a lists of characters and can be found on my KD Did It review.
The Stories
Phaedra Weldon's "With Sorrow and Joy"
The Norton family's wood and woodcraft is famous throughout Valdemar. That is, until the Nortons couldn't fulfill their orders. Now Uli has just learned that his father has been dead a year and his family needs him. They need him as a Herald to sort out the murders and thefts.
Definitely a tale of Sorrow and Joy, as Uli learns so many truths about his family.
Kristin Schwengel's "Of Crows and Karsites"
Rinton is on his first Circuit near Karse and enlists birds to aid him in discovering the source of all the panic swelling throughout the land.
A sweet tale of hope and escape!
Jennifer Brozek's "Feathers in Deed"
Both Hadara of K'lLeysha Vale and Kitha shena Tale'sedrin battle their hopes and fears, wanting to be free of the magic that changed them, but fearing the loss of their bond.
Angela Penrose's "The Letter of the Law"
The land's ruler has died and his heir wants everything that's the best, no matter how cruel.
This made me so sick to my heart. Even Joss can't do much since it is the strict law. But he's quite creative in finding loopholes, lol. Joss also makes an excellent point that there should be room for human judgment and mercy. Oh, man, Joss has still another one to pull over the new baron!
Dayle A Dermatis' "Who We'll Become"
It's a bittersweet Midwinter holiday with Syrriah's sister implementing so many changes. Not even her old gowns fit her after her training at the Collegium. But there's a problem at the Fair with the question one of upholding a legacy or making changes.
It is a story of changes for everyone, and very nicely done.
Elizabeth Vaughan's "Unceasing Consequences"
As pleased as she is to be awarded Sandbriar, it's been a struggle for Cera restoring the estate and helping its people survive. Cera is constantly exploring ideas and ways to make this happen. And Cera's mourning period is about over.
I do love reading about Cera's efforts to help her people. Poor Emerson gets caught out! And gets let off with Cera's help, lol.
Janny Wurts' "Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted"
Kaysa finally arrived, bedraggled, in Haven, after a harrowing journey from Ropewynd, with a reward of a student's place in the Collegium. Until the way is safe for Kaysa to go home. It's not what Kaysa dreamed of when she dreamt of escaping her overprotected world of Ropewynd. She is determined to prove that she has worth.
This is too sweet of a tale with its bittersweet happy ending.
Diana L Paxson's "Moving On"
A unique and dangerous flu came from a family fleeing Valdemar's borderlands. A sickness Deira refuses to allow her daughter to treat.
It's a flashback to the village of Everleigh that Selaine and then Deira left in Pathways: "Patterns", 2 (11). Ooh, mother-daughter issues! It's the anger Selaine has with that con man that forces her Gift, one that she then applies to other ills. And the best argument she'll have against her mother!
Louisa Swann's "The Right Place"
Poor Petril. No one is singing his praises or swathing him in ermine in recognition of that rescue. Now he's alone in Haven trying to protect Bella and her foal.
I'm not quite sure what Petril is talking about, about the man he was working for. The story does pick up once Lord Fancy Pants shows up, and Petril is quite clever with the story revealing Petril's Gifts and the rewards for such a young hero. Very sweet and it made me laugh in appreciation.
Elisabeth Waters' "A Siege of Cranes"
Poor Lena. She's old enough to have her first season at Court — and find a husband. The king insists. Only, Lena has sorted all her suitors into three categories: annoying, obnoxious, and repulsive.
I do like the story, but Waters is much too quick to marry Lena off. And I wanna read the fallout, dang it!
Michele Lang's "Cloud Born"
Cloudbrother's oath to return to Lake Evandim and heal it is forsworn. Instead he's being sent on a relief mission to Iftel as an ambassador.
Ivinchi is certainly an odd duck. And so much fun to "listen" to.
Brigid Collins' "Letters From Home"
Taren is needling away at Marli to do better, and she's still so depressed about leaving home. It'll take someone else's need for her to wake.
It's a contrast between Marli who gets so many letters and Simen who gets none. Then there's Taren who refuses to help, unless . . . It's sweet and short with an insufficient ending.
Anthea Sharp's "Friendship's Gift"
It's a sad end of friendship for Tarek when he's no longer invited to join with Lyssa or Shandara.
It is a good reminder for any of us that there's always another side to a story.
Ron Collins' "Confounding, Enduring, Perfect, and Strong"
It's exhausting and overwhelming for Nwah. The lack of learning about her magic. Winnie's "intrusion" into her relationship with Kade, as well as Nwah's own interest in Maakdal.
Love cannot be commanded and yet it can be many things.
This takes place shortly after Pathways: "Out of the Pelagiris", 4 (11).
Fiona Patton's "The Once and Future Box"
The roof of the Watch House has been bad for way too long, and it takes a river of water running into the captain's office to find money for the repairs. It's so bad that most everyone, including the animals, are deserting the Watch House.
Lol, it's an old tale, that one can't see the damage till the "tiles are off". Then the lockpicking and the complaints of how a cop's family is ruining the thieves . . . oh, well, lol. Morag sure knows her business, even if she does forget who she's talking to.
Stephanie Shaver's "Acceptable Losses"
Since Highjorune (Crucible: "The Highjorune Masque", 9), the Queen knows that even the Guards cannot be trusted. What arrives as Herald Wil's backup is not what he'd been expecting.
It's another step forward in Wil's mission to shut Madra and Lord Dark down. And I'm beginning to wonder if it'll ever be accomplished. "The Quarry" Shaver keeps mentioning is part of Wil's dreams.
Dylan Birtolo's "Weight of a Hundred Eyes"
Paxia cares for everyone and yet feels the need to hide herself behind her anvil. Too often, she has felt watchers at her back.
Whoof, this was rather nasty. You do have to know something about Valdemar and what protects its people to really grasp the significance of this story. I do not think the Heralds handled this well at all, which means Birtolo was missing what the Heralds are supposed to be about. Adouin certainly left things badly, and I'm curious as to how Birtolo intends for Paxia to get her revenge.
Mercedes Lackey's "Woman's Need Calls Me"
Melysatra is tired and wants only to settle down and start a nice little inn. Experiment with some of the beer and wine recipes she's collected. Do some healing and hedge wizardry. If only she could find someone she could hand Need onto.
It's a small village that draws Need and the problem they're having with Change Circles. They've also lost the village inn. Hmmm . . . It's a fun story that is oh-so-convenient and plays to those of a transgender. I am curious, however, why Harl, Kerd, and Pol are described as young, if Mel has been wandering for over 40 years since Urtho's tower was destroyed.
The Characters
Mage Melysatra of Silence Tower, formerly in Urtho's army, has carried Need , a Mage-forged blade seeking justice for women, for the past 40 years. Sam is Mel's old warhorse.
Harl, Kerd, and Pol are of Warrik's Wolves, a mercenary company, and had been with Urtho's army as well. Lemuel is a middle-aged, fit hunter. Agnetha is a goddess to whom Mel prays.
The Beast is terrorizing the area — he ate Waybrook! Ma'ar was the evil mage who was an enemy of Urtho’s.
The Cover and Title
The cover has a black background with deep gray swords slanting across it. The middle graphic is a semi-transparent heater shield with a medium gray border and rivets. Inside the shield are two somewhat hidden blue-turquoise scenes behind the right-facing profile of a white horse wearing a blue bridle. There are two additional (and smaller) shields at the top and bottom of the primary shield. The top has a royal blue background with white rivets and a white pegasus in its center. The bottom has a black background and a pinkish-red gryphon with its wings spread against an old gold circle. At the top is a young-rust rectangular border with a black background enclosing the title in its gothic orange with white for the remaining text of the series and story info. At the bottom is another rectangular outline in young-rust (and a black background) with the editor info in white.
The title is what each story is about, the Choices that must be made.
The Series
"Feathers in Deed" (Hadara and Kitha, 3)
"Who We'll Become" (Herald Syrriah, 5)
"Unceasing Consequences" (Lady Cera of Sandbriar, 5)
"Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted" (Kaysa of Ropewynd, 3)
"Moving On" (Deira the Weaver, 3)
"The Right Place" (Petril, 2)
"A Siege of Cranes" (Lena, 6)
"Letters From Home" (Marli of Fairbend, 3)
"Friendship's Gift" (Healer Tarek Strand, 2)
"Confounding, Enduring, Perfect, and Strong" (Nwah the Kyree, 5)
"The Once and Future Box" (Dann Family of Haven, 9)
"Acceptable Losses" (Wil & Leila, 9)
"Woman's Need Calls Me" (Need / Vows & Honor, pre-Kerowyn)
Each short story has a lists of characters and can be found on my KD Did It review.
The Stories
Phaedra Weldon's "With Sorrow and Joy"
The Norton family's wood and woodcraft is famous throughout Valdemar. That is, until the Nortons couldn't fulfill their orders. Now Uli has just learned that his father has been dead a year and his family needs him. They need him as a Herald to sort out the murders and thefts.
Definitely a tale of Sorrow and Joy, as Uli learns so many truths about his family.
Kristin Schwengel's "Of Crows and Karsites"
Rinton is on his first Circuit near Karse and enlists birds to aid him in discovering the source of all the panic swelling throughout the land.
A sweet tale of hope and escape!
Jennifer Brozek's "Feathers in Deed"
Both Hadara of K'lLeysha Vale and Kitha shena Tale'sedrin battle their hopes and fears, wanting to be free of the magic that changed them, but fearing the loss of their bond.
Angela Penrose's "The Letter of the Law"
The land's ruler has died and his heir wants everything that's the best, no matter how cruel.
This made me so sick to my heart. Even Joss can't do much since it is the strict law. But he's quite creative in finding loopholes, lol. Joss also makes an excellent point that there should be room for human judgment and mercy. Oh, man, Joss has still another one to pull over the new baron!
Dayle A Dermatis' "Who We'll Become"
It's a bittersweet Midwinter holiday with Syrriah's sister implementing so many changes. Not even her old gowns fit her after her training at the Collegium. But there's a problem at the Fair with the question one of upholding a legacy or making changes.
It is a story of changes for everyone, and very nicely done.
Elizabeth Vaughan's "Unceasing Consequences"
As pleased as she is to be awarded Sandbriar, it's been a struggle for Cera restoring the estate and helping its people survive. Cera is constantly exploring ideas and ways to make this happen. And Cera's mourning period is about over.
I do love reading about Cera's efforts to help her people. Poor Emerson gets caught out! And gets let off with Cera's help, lol.
Janny Wurts' "Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted"
Kaysa finally arrived, bedraggled, in Haven, after a harrowing journey from Ropewynd, with a reward of a student's place in the Collegium. Until the way is safe for Kaysa to go home. It's not what Kaysa dreamed of when she dreamt of escaping her overprotected world of Ropewynd. She is determined to prove that she has worth.
This is too sweet of a tale with its bittersweet happy ending.
Diana L Paxson's "Moving On"
A unique and dangerous flu came from a family fleeing Valdemar's borderlands. A sickness Deira refuses to allow her daughter to treat.
It's a flashback to the village of Everleigh that Selaine and then Deira left in Pathways: "Patterns", 2 (11). Ooh, mother-daughter issues! It's the anger Selaine has with that con man that forces her Gift, one that she then applies to other ills. And the best argument she'll have against her mother!
Louisa Swann's "The Right Place"
Poor Petril. No one is singing his praises or swathing him in ermine in recognition of that rescue. Now he's alone in Haven trying to protect Bella and her foal.
I'm not quite sure what Petril is talking about, about the man he was working for. The story does pick up once Lord Fancy Pants shows up, and Petril is quite clever with the story revealing Petril's Gifts and the rewards for such a young hero. Very sweet and it made me laugh in appreciation.
Elisabeth Waters' "A Siege of Cranes"
Poor Lena. She's old enough to have her first season at Court — and find a husband. The king insists. Only, Lena has sorted all her suitors into three categories: annoying, obnoxious, and repulsive.
I do like the story, but Waters is much too quick to marry Lena off. And I wanna read the fallout, dang it!
Michele Lang's "Cloud Born"
Cloudbrother's oath to return to Lake Evandim and heal it is forsworn. Instead he's being sent on a relief mission to Iftel as an ambassador.
Ivinchi is certainly an odd duck. And so much fun to "listen" to.
Brigid Collins' "Letters From Home"
Taren is needling away at Marli to do better, and she's still so depressed about leaving home. It'll take someone else's need for her to wake.
It's a contrast between Marli who gets so many letters and Simen who gets none. Then there's Taren who refuses to help, unless . . . It's sweet and short with an insufficient ending.
Anthea Sharp's "Friendship's Gift"
It's a sad end of friendship for Tarek when he's no longer invited to join with Lyssa or Shandara.
It is a good reminder for any of us that there's always another side to a story.
Ron Collins' "Confounding, Enduring, Perfect, and Strong"
It's exhausting and overwhelming for Nwah. The lack of learning about her magic. Winnie's "intrusion" into her relationship with Kade, as well as Nwah's own interest in Maakdal.
Love cannot be commanded and yet it can be many things.
This takes place shortly after Pathways: "Out of the Pelagiris", 4 (11).
Fiona Patton's "The Once and Future Box"
The roof of the Watch House has been bad for way too long, and it takes a river of water running into the captain's office to find money for the repairs. It's so bad that most everyone, including the animals, are deserting the Watch House.
Lol, it's an old tale, that one can't see the damage till the "tiles are off". Then the lockpicking and the complaints of how a cop's family is ruining the thieves . . . oh, well, lol. Morag sure knows her business, even if she does forget who she's talking to.
Stephanie Shaver's "Acceptable Losses"
Since Highjorune (Crucible: "The Highjorune Masque", 9), the Queen knows that even the Guards cannot be trusted. What arrives as Herald Wil's backup is not what he'd been expecting.
It's another step forward in Wil's mission to shut Madra and Lord Dark down. And I'm beginning to wonder if it'll ever be accomplished. "The Quarry" Shaver keeps mentioning is part of Wil's dreams.
Dylan Birtolo's "Weight of a Hundred Eyes"
Paxia cares for everyone and yet feels the need to hide herself behind her anvil. Too often, she has felt watchers at her back.
Whoof, this was rather nasty. You do have to know something about Valdemar and what protects its people to really grasp the significance of this story. I do not think the Heralds handled this well at all, which means Birtolo was missing what the Heralds are supposed to be about. Adouin certainly left things badly, and I'm curious as to how Birtolo intends for Paxia to get her revenge.
Mercedes Lackey's "Woman's Need Calls Me"
Melysatra is tired and wants only to settle down and start a nice little inn. Experiment with some of the beer and wine recipes she's collected. Do some healing and hedge wizardry. If only she could find someone she could hand Need onto.
It's a small village that draws Need and the problem they're having with Change Circles. They've also lost the village inn. Hmmm . . . It's a fun story that is oh-so-convenient and plays to those of a transgender. I am curious, however, why Harl, Kerd, and Pol are described as young, if Mel has been wandering for over 40 years since Urtho's tower was destroyed.
The Characters
Mage Melysatra of Silence Tower, formerly in Urtho's army, has carried Need , a Mage-forged blade seeking justice for women, for the past 40 years. Sam is Mel's old warhorse.
Harl, Kerd, and Pol are of Warrik's Wolves, a mercenary company, and had been with Urtho's army as well. Lemuel is a middle-aged, fit hunter. Agnetha is a goddess to whom Mel prays.
The Beast is terrorizing the area — he ate Waybrook! Ma'ar was the evil mage who was an enemy of Urtho’s.
The Cover and Title
The cover has a black background with deep gray swords slanting across it. The middle graphic is a semi-transparent heater shield with a medium gray border and rivets. Inside the shield are two somewhat hidden blue-turquoise scenes behind the right-facing profile of a white horse wearing a blue bridle. There are two additional (and smaller) shields at the top and bottom of the primary shield. The top has a royal blue background with white rivets and a white pegasus in its center. The bottom has a black background and a pinkish-red gryphon with its wings spread against an old gold circle. At the top is a young-rust rectangular border with a black background enclosing the title in its gothic orange with white for the remaining text of the series and story info. At the bottom is another rectangular outline in young-rust (and a black background) with the editor info in white.
The title is what each story is about, the Choices that must be made.
December 2, 2018
I'm a teensy bit disappointed in this collection. A lot of them felt like the story was hanging, or left incomplete, as if it was expected to continue in a later edition. Another problem I had was that they often referenced characters and events from the books written in this world, and there was a lot to remember without any background given. They were still all good, just nothing that excited me. Even the last story, by Lackey herself, had one niggling issue that bugged me - if I remember right, the sword Need also healed, and the broken arm at the end shouldn't have been an issue for very long. Then again, maybe my memory isn't serving me well...
Regardless, it's a good collection as usual, just not up to a collective 4 stars in my book.
Regardless, it's a good collection as usual, just not up to a collective 4 stars in my book.
November 30, 2018
I love these books, they're a wonderful world to sink in to and enjoy, and the short stories are familiar and a roller-coaster of emotions.
Valdemar has been a favorite of mine for most of my life
Valdemar has been a favorite of mine for most of my life
February 10, 2019
The anthology books are not stand alones. You must read them all in order. Many stories go book to book.
November 2, 2022
Reread
April 3, 2021
I've been reading the Valdemar series for a long time, since the first herald book, Arrows of the Queen. It has been one of the best series I've read but I lost track of some of the anthologies. When I saw a new anthology was out, I was eager to read it, especially with some of the authors I saw listed. It was like coming home, a familiar world with new characters for me to enjoy.
There are a wide range of stories. Some include heralds doing heroic deeds but some are of simple people doing the best they can, making choices that impact themselves and others. Whether with heroic deeds or not, each story satisfies but readers will need to be familiar with the world of Valdemar and heralds.
I like most of the stories in the anthology but there were a few that stood out. First, I really loved Mercedes Lackey's story featuring the ensouled sword Need. The characters were engaging, the story simple but elegant and the story features the type of twist that was unique and interesting. It is one of her best short stories to date and as trailblazing as her Herald Mage novels.
But her story wasn't the only one that was engaging and complex. Letters from Home by Brigid Collins was especially moving. The character leaves behind an entire lice and must work up the courage to look back home. I like that the author resists the urge to fix everything but has the character take baby steps while gaining the support that she needs to take those steps. It's not easy moving on without the ones we love by our side.
Another story that I loved was “Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted “ by Janny Wurts. She has a lovely way with words and her characters pop from the page. If you took her name of the story, i would still recognize her indelible style and I loved her spin on the collegium and the world of Valdemar.
“The Right Place” by Louisa Swann was another of my favorite choices. It features a fisher boy whose empathy with a special horse leads him into trouble but his choice to help is the right one. I liked it because the character wasn't a Herald and didn't expect reward for his help. It was choice made from his heart.
The last story of my top picks is “Acceptable Losses” by Stephanie Shaver. This story features Herald whose dealt with losses and has a daughter but is also trying to deal with a threat to Valdemar. His struggle is picking the right choice that will prevent the most loss, including his own. I liked the characters and the solution to the problem.
There are some stories that aren't as engaging but overall, each story reflects the theme of the anthology in its own way. Whether the main character is a Herald, a bard, a healer, a warrior, or a common person, they've each had to makes a choice that fits with the world of Mercedes Lackey. If you aren't as familiar with Mercedes Lackey and her most popular series, her world of Velgarth, you might find yourself a touch lost on some terminology but most of the stories will still be worth the read. If you are a fan, it will be like returning home.
There are a wide range of stories. Some include heralds doing heroic deeds but some are of simple people doing the best they can, making choices that impact themselves and others. Whether with heroic deeds or not, each story satisfies but readers will need to be familiar with the world of Valdemar and heralds.
I like most of the stories in the anthology but there were a few that stood out. First, I really loved Mercedes Lackey's story featuring the ensouled sword Need. The characters were engaging, the story simple but elegant and the story features the type of twist that was unique and interesting. It is one of her best short stories to date and as trailblazing as her Herald Mage novels.
But her story wasn't the only one that was engaging and complex. Letters from Home by Brigid Collins was especially moving. The character leaves behind an entire lice and must work up the courage to look back home. I like that the author resists the urge to fix everything but has the character take baby steps while gaining the support that she needs to take those steps. It's not easy moving on without the ones we love by our side.
Another story that I loved was “Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted “ by Janny Wurts. She has a lovely way with words and her characters pop from the page. If you took her name of the story, i would still recognize her indelible style and I loved her spin on the collegium and the world of Valdemar.
“The Right Place” by Louisa Swann was another of my favorite choices. It features a fisher boy whose empathy with a special horse leads him into trouble but his choice to help is the right one. I liked it because the character wasn't a Herald and didn't expect reward for his help. It was choice made from his heart.
The last story of my top picks is “Acceptable Losses” by Stephanie Shaver. This story features Herald whose dealt with losses and has a daughter but is also trying to deal with a threat to Valdemar. His struggle is picking the right choice that will prevent the most loss, including his own. I liked the characters and the solution to the problem.
There are some stories that aren't as engaging but overall, each story reflects the theme of the anthology in its own way. Whether the main character is a Herald, a bard, a healer, a warrior, or a common person, they've each had to makes a choice that fits with the world of Mercedes Lackey. If you aren't as familiar with Mercedes Lackey and her most popular series, her world of Velgarth, you might find yourself a touch lost on some terminology but most of the stories will still be worth the read. If you are a fan, it will be like returning home.
August 9, 2022
I've been reading the Valdemar series for a long time, since the first herald book, Arrows of the Queen. It has been one of the best series I've read but I lost track of some of the anthologies. When I saw a new anthology was out, I was eager to read it, especially with some of the authors I saw listed. It was like coming home, a familiar world with new characters for me to enjoy.
There are a wide range of stories. Some include heralds doing heroic deeds but some are of simple people doing the best they can, making choices that impact themselves and others. Whether with heroic deeds or not, each story satisfies but readers will need to be familiar with the world of Valdemar and heralds.
I like most of the stories in the anthology but there were a few that stood out. First, I really loved Mercedes Lackey's story featuring the ensouled sword Need. The characters were engaging, the story simple but elegant and the story features the type of twist that was unique and interesting. It is one of her best short stories to date and as trailblazing as her Herald Mage novels.
But her story wasn't the only one that was engaging and complex. Letters from Home by Brigid Collins was especially moving. The character leaves behind an entire lice and must work up the courage to look back home. I like that the author resists the urge to fix everything but has the character take baby steps while gaining the support that she needs to take those steps. It's not easy moving on without the ones we love by our side.
Another story that I loved was “Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted “ by Janny Wurts. She has a lovely way with words and her characters pop from the page. If you took her name of the story, i would still recognize her indelible style and I loved her spin on the collegium and the world of Valdemar.
“The Right Place” by Louisa Swann was another of my favorite choices. It features a fisher boy whose empathy with a special horse leads him into trouble but his choice to help is the right one. I liked it because the character wasn't a Herald and didn't expect reward for his help. It was choice made from his heart.
The last story of my top picks is “Acceptable Losses” by Stephanie Shaver. This story features Herald whose dealt with losses and has a daughter but is also trying to deal with a threat to Valdemar. His struggle is picking the right choice that will prevent the most loss, including his own. I liked the characters and the solution to the problem.
There are some stories that aren't as engaging but overall, each story reflects the theme of the anthology in its own way. Whether the main character is a Herald, a bard, a healer, a warrior, or a common person, they've each had to makes a choice that fits with the world of Mercedes Lackey. If you aren't as familiar with Mercedes Lackey and her most popular series, her world of Velgarth, you might find yourself a touch lost on some terminology but most of the stories will still be worth the read. If you are a fan, it will be like returning home.
There are a wide range of stories. Some include heralds doing heroic deeds but some are of simple people doing the best they can, making choices that impact themselves and others. Whether with heroic deeds or not, each story satisfies but readers will need to be familiar with the world of Valdemar and heralds.
I like most of the stories in the anthology but there were a few that stood out. First, I really loved Mercedes Lackey's story featuring the ensouled sword Need. The characters were engaging, the story simple but elegant and the story features the type of twist that was unique and interesting. It is one of her best short stories to date and as trailblazing as her Herald Mage novels.
But her story wasn't the only one that was engaging and complex. Letters from Home by Brigid Collins was especially moving. The character leaves behind an entire lice and must work up the courage to look back home. I like that the author resists the urge to fix everything but has the character take baby steps while gaining the support that she needs to take those steps. It's not easy moving on without the ones we love by our side.
Another story that I loved was “Beyond Common Sense, She Persisted “ by Janny Wurts. She has a lovely way with words and her characters pop from the page. If you took her name of the story, i would still recognize her indelible style and I loved her spin on the collegium and the world of Valdemar.
“The Right Place” by Louisa Swann was another of my favorite choices. It features a fisher boy whose empathy with a special horse leads him into trouble but his choice to help is the right one. I liked it because the character wasn't a Herald and didn't expect reward for his help. It was choice made from his heart.
The last story of my top picks is “Acceptable Losses” by Stephanie Shaver. This story features Herald whose dealt with losses and has a daughter but is also trying to deal with a threat to Valdemar. His struggle is picking the right choice that will prevent the most loss, including his own. I liked the characters and the solution to the problem.
There are some stories that aren't as engaging but overall, each story reflects the theme of the anthology in its own way. Whether the main character is a Herald, a bard, a healer, a warrior, or a common person, they've each had to makes a choice that fits with the world of Mercedes Lackey. If you aren't as familiar with Mercedes Lackey and her most popular series, her world of Velgarth, you might find yourself a touch lost on some terminology but most of the stories will still be worth the read. If you are a fan, it will be like returning home.
November 30, 2018
Another year, another Valdemarian anthology from Mercedes Lackey. These books are like catnip for me. The collections are sometimes uneven, but Valdemar is a wonderful invention, a rich secondary word with so many different cultures and potential stories, and there’s something about Lackey’s world that I find irresistible.
As usual, there are some stories from longtime contributors, many of them featuring characters we’ve met before and come to appreciate, and some from new writers who’ve never written for Valdemar before. And of course a brand new story by Lackey herself, which answers one of the questions many of us have had about Need - and also makes a strong statement about trans inclusivity. But then, Lackey has always been an LGBT ally, which is probably one of the reasons I feel comfortable with her work.
In fact, Lackey’s story, “Woman’s Need Calls Me,” is my favourite from this collection, which is in fact one of the stronger collections of recent years - there really wasn’t one story that I didn’t enjoy, although some were slight in terms of action and adventure.
Good comfort reading when I needed it.
Note: This anthology contains 18 stories, 16 written by women and two written by men.
As usual, there are some stories from longtime contributors, many of them featuring characters we’ve met before and come to appreciate, and some from new writers who’ve never written for Valdemar before. And of course a brand new story by Lackey herself, which answers one of the questions many of us have had about Need - and also makes a strong statement about trans inclusivity. But then, Lackey has always been an LGBT ally, which is probably one of the reasons I feel comfortable with her work.
In fact, Lackey’s story, “Woman’s Need Calls Me,” is my favourite from this collection, which is in fact one of the stronger collections of recent years - there really wasn’t one story that I didn’t enjoy, although some were slight in terms of action and adventure.
Good comfort reading when I needed it.
Note: This anthology contains 18 stories, 16 written by women and two written by men.
May 25, 2024
My review is broken into pieces following each individual story in the order I read them in. I read five stories from this anthology.
“Woman’s Need Calls Me” by Mercedes Lackey: This one was interesting. I was not expecting trans representation, but there it was. I liked this little adventure.
“Moving On” by Diana L. Paxson: Same main character as “Weavings” from the No True Way anthology. Basically the story of how Diera and Selaine ended up going to Haven. It was alright. I knew right off “Master Abolon” was a fraud.
“Unceasing Consqeunces” by Elizabeth A. Vaughan: I really enjoyed this one. Lady Cera is further dealing with Sandbriar’s issues and her own. She handled Lord Cition like a pro.
“Of Crows and Karsites” by Kristin Schwengel: I really enjoyed this one. It’s a good mix of action and a bit of sneaker-y. Liked the inclusion of a Tayledras Bond Bird and the tiny bit of Karse.
“Feathers in Deed” by Jennifer Brozek: Kind of “meh” on this one. Hadara and Kitha arrive at Bolthaven and do some stuff.
“Woman’s Need Calls Me” by Mercedes Lackey: This one was interesting. I was not expecting trans representation, but there it was. I liked this little adventure.
“Moving On” by Diana L. Paxson: Same main character as “Weavings” from the No True Way anthology. Basically the story of how Diera and Selaine ended up going to Haven. It was alright. I knew right off “Master Abolon” was a fraud.
“Unceasing Consqeunces” by Elizabeth A. Vaughan: I really enjoyed this one. Lady Cera is further dealing with Sandbriar’s issues and her own. She handled Lord Cition like a pro.
“Of Crows and Karsites” by Kristin Schwengel: I really enjoyed this one. It’s a good mix of action and a bit of sneaker-y. Liked the inclusion of a Tayledras Bond Bird and the tiny bit of Karse.
“Feathers in Deed” by Jennifer Brozek: Kind of “meh” on this one. Hadara and Kitha arrive at Bolthaven and do some stuff.
February 2, 2021
Like all the other New Tales of Valdemar, this one was packed full of great stories.
They were mostly follow-ups from previous stories, which I love - it's like getting fully formed novels in chapter form and, although I love that, there are times when I'd just love to see what's going to happen next - straight away - with my favourite characters!
As usual, there was my favourite City Guard story, of the Dann family, plus so many other characters that I've got to know, and love but, this time, Mercedes' own contribution was something I've been wanting to know, ever since I first read about her, and that was a story about one of the first carriers of Need!
I really loved this story, and cant wait to see if there will be more along the way. But, in the meantime, I'll be reading the next installment of Valdemar stories, Seasons.
And only one more anthology after that, and I'm caught up to date with them - then I'll have to wait a whole year between them! 😕
They were mostly follow-ups from previous stories, which I love - it's like getting fully formed novels in chapter form and, although I love that, there are times when I'd just love to see what's going to happen next - straight away - with my favourite characters!
As usual, there was my favourite City Guard story, of the Dann family, plus so many other characters that I've got to know, and love but, this time, Mercedes' own contribution was something I've been wanting to know, ever since I first read about her, and that was a story about one of the first carriers of Need!
I really loved this story, and cant wait to see if there will be more along the way. But, in the meantime, I'll be reading the next installment of Valdemar stories, Seasons.
And only one more anthology after that, and I'm caught up to date with them - then I'll have to wait a whole year between them! 😕
December 5, 2018
Valdemar is a beautiful and magical place that Mercedes Lackey has built over many years. Her books have brought me joy and I have re-read many of them. She is incredible at weaving stories that captivate the reader, and has been capable of selecting others who share that talent and love for Valdemar in her previous anthologies.
I looked forward to reading this book, but it was a serious disappointment. I felt the stories were unfinished, tedious rather than amazing, and not very well written. I was surprised they were chosen to be included in the lore of Valdemar.
I hope this is a misstep in a very entertaining world where I have spent many hours of enjoyment.
I looked forward to reading this book, but it was a serious disappointment. I felt the stories were unfinished, tedious rather than amazing, and not very well written. I was surprised they were chosen to be included in the lore of Valdemar.
I hope this is a misstep in a very entertaining world where I have spent many hours of enjoyment.
February 6, 2020
This another short story collection written by other authors in Mercedes Lackey Valdemar series. Mercedes always has one story in at as well. The stories cover all the time periods as well as taken place in more than just Valdemar. What I enjoy about these is they give us small glimpses of other lives and places not covered in the main books. One of my favorite stories that has been in every book is about a family made up of city guard in Haven. It is nice to see how the common man lives away from the mighty heralds, bards and healers.
I would not recommend these if you are not familiar with the series because all the stories assume that you are.
I would not recommend these if you are not familiar with the series because all the stories assume that you are.
January 1, 2019
I've loved the tales of Valdemar since Arrows of the Queen. This collection of stories, including one by Lackey herself, was a little uneven - some stories grabbed me, others left me wanting more, and a couple were just meh. Your mileage may vary - it's not uncommon for me to like short stories less than novels. the collection is worth a look for fans of the Valdemar stories, but is probably not a good place to start if you haven't read a lot of the novels and earlier stories, as a basic knowledge of the world and its people is necessary to really enjoy some of the stories.
November 28, 2018
3.5/5. This has been one of the books I've been looking forward to reading the most this year. We've got some stories continuing from the previous anthologies, and some new stories as well. I'm curious to see how some of the stories will continue in future anthologies (Herald Wil especially) while others I didn't care for. If your a fan of the previous anthologies or Heralds of Valdemar series in general you will most likely enjoy this book.
January 4, 2019
Reviewed for NetGalley:
I had so much fun revisiting the world of Valdemar. I need to catch up on the new novels! The only thing wrong with this book is that it ended. Some of the stories weren't my favorite, but it was fun to catch up with the characters that have appeared in previous books. I really like doing that. It took me a long time to read this book because I wanted to savour each story.
Really enjoyed it. I think you'll like it too.
I had so much fun revisiting the world of Valdemar. I need to catch up on the new novels! The only thing wrong with this book is that it ended. Some of the stories weren't my favorite, but it was fun to catch up with the characters that have appeared in previous books. I really like doing that. It took me a long time to read this book because I wanted to savour each story.
Really enjoyed it. I think you'll like it too.
February 14, 2019
This is a great collection of short stories that are about the Heralds and their companions. You can read this as a stand alone even though it's book 12 in the Tales of Valdermar series. It's a great introduction to Mercedes Lackey's fantasy world. Many authors work with Ms. Lackey on this fantasy series and this anthology has 5 authors plus Mercedes offering new tales. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 9, 2022
There is little I love more in my reading life than to fall into Mercedes Lackey’s world of Valdemar. It’s a magical place, not perfect, but a place where good really does triumph. This collection of tales, like the others in this series, are full of adventure and magic. The stories are written by a variety of authors, all of whom clearly adore the world as much as I do. A great addition to the Valdemar world!
December 14, 2018
Another wonderful collection of Valdemar stories!
A great collection of stories set in Mercedes Lackey's Valdemar world. I honestly loved every single story in this collection. Several stories were continuations of stories from prior anthologies in this series and several newcomers provided new ones to the mix. Add in an all new tale by Mercedes Lackey for a must read book!
A great collection of stories set in Mercedes Lackey's Valdemar world. I honestly loved every single story in this collection. Several stories were continuations of stories from prior anthologies in this series and several newcomers provided new ones to the mix. Add in an all new tale by Mercedes Lackey for a must read book!
February 27, 2019
Favorite short in this anthology isn't from ML for a change! I'm shocked. But her novella was still just as fun to read as the others. Which one is my favorite you ask? "Of Sorrow and Joy by Phaedra Waldon but I also really loved "A Seige of Cranes" by Elisabeth Waters. All the stories were well done but those three mentioned were my favorites.
Longer review to come from my blog soon!
Longer review to come from my blog soon!
May 24, 2019
Another fun Valdemar anthology
Lots of disparate short stories with some stronger than others. The best ones leave you wanting more! These blend nicely the real world of villagers not knowing how to deal with the magic world of Heralds. Lackey has put together an amazing group of authors.
Lots of disparate short stories with some stronger than others. The best ones leave you wanting more! These blend nicely the real world of villagers not knowing how to deal with the magic world of Heralds. Lackey has put together an amazing group of authors.
May 26, 2020
I've been a fan of Lackey's work since I was 13 and have read all the Velgarth anthologies. This was the best of the lot. In other anthologies, there have been one or two stories I didn't like, but I enjoyed all of the ones here. However, I would recommend a person read the previous anthologies before this one, as there are many stories that are continuations from earlier anthologies.
November 30, 2020
I like the books Mercedes Lackey writes, she is good at creating a believable world and people to populate it. While her writing is not the strongest I do find it engaging ang and enjoyable. I like a series I can live inside of and her books are ones that have characters I feel invested in and a world I believe could exist.
November 17, 2022
i found this particular collection a little uneven. Some of the stories seemed rushed and almost as if they would have made a better novella or novel with space to unpack their settings and characters without crashing their first pages quite so heavily. Scene setting is so tricky, so much to tell the reader in so short a time in short stories.
December 12, 2018
Choices (Valdemar)
Such a great collection of short stories set in my favorite universe:Valdemar! Even an appearance by any favorite "sword". Iftel makes an appearance as well. So many good stories!
Such a great collection of short stories set in my favorite universe:Valdemar! Even an appearance by any favorite "sword". Iftel makes an appearance as well. So many good stories!
December 17, 2018
Look, sometimes it’s nice to visit a place where the good and true and bold of heart can save the day and everything will be okay in the end. And even when a hero dies their sacrifice has meaning to ease the grief of their loss.
December 17, 2018
The 12th anthology in the Valdemar series and another delightful collection of stories that take place in various times and places in the fantasy world of Mercedes Lackey. With new characters and familiar ones, including a potential new enemy for the kingdom of Valdemar and its Heralds.
December 26, 2018
Another great romp through the world of Valdemar!
I love the adventures and depth of the characters. Could hardly put it down. Can't wait to explore some of these author's other works too.
I love the adventures and depth of the characters. Could hardly put it down. Can't wait to explore some of these author's other works too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews