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Valdemar (Chronological) #27
Take a Thief
Young Skif is the very personification of a hard-knock life. Since Skif is an orphan, his uncle, Galko Londer, is his guardian. Far from being a concerned and tender relative, Master Londer regards Skif as little better than a slave. Skif is required to work in his uncle's tavern, which is managed by Londer's equally unpleasant son Kalchan, for the chance to sleep under the tavern stairs. Fortunately for Skif, one of Queen Selenay's laws is that all children under a certain age must be provided with an education, which Skif cares little for, and breakfast, which he looks forward to eagerly since his cousin is not inclined to feed him. The youngster supplements his temple breakfast by sneaking into rich men's houses and stealing food.
One day, after filling his pockets with food from Lord Orthallen's dining room, he runs into another young thief who consents to take Skif with him and teach him how best to break into houses and pick pockets. The boy leads him to Bazie, a crippled ex-soldier who makes his living, Fagin-like, by running a small ring of boy thieves in the poor sections of Haven. In Bazie's home, Skif finds the friendship and acceptance he has craved all his life, until tragedy strikes and his new family is taken from him.
Once more alone, Skif vows vengeance and, despite his young age, sets about to get it. And he is well on his way to achieving it when he steals a pretty white horse left unattended in a city park and finds himself, after a wild ride through Haven and the surrounding countryside, the newest Herald-trainee.
The above Dickens reference is not an accident. This novel, in spots, has a very Dickensian atmosphere, especially with Bazie and his boys, though Bazie's motivations are not entirely the same as Fagin's (having been in my high school's production of Oliver some years ago, I'm familiar with that story).
The story takes place almost entirely within the bounds of Valdemar's court city, Haven, and not the nicer parts, either. Lackey brings the poorer quarters of Haven to vivid life, and makes it a place you definitely don't want to visit without several friends and a good, stout walking stick.
Skif's background has never been a secret, and this tale of how he became a thief and then a Herald is a welcome addition to the Valdemar series.
One day, after filling his pockets with food from Lord Orthallen's dining room, he runs into another young thief who consents to take Skif with him and teach him how best to break into houses and pick pockets. The boy leads him to Bazie, a crippled ex-soldier who makes his living, Fagin-like, by running a small ring of boy thieves in the poor sections of Haven. In Bazie's home, Skif finds the friendship and acceptance he has craved all his life, until tragedy strikes and his new family is taken from him.
Once more alone, Skif vows vengeance and, despite his young age, sets about to get it. And he is well on his way to achieving it when he steals a pretty white horse left unattended in a city park and finds himself, after a wild ride through Haven and the surrounding countryside, the newest Herald-trainee.
The above Dickens reference is not an accident. This novel, in spots, has a very Dickensian atmosphere, especially with Bazie and his boys, though Bazie's motivations are not entirely the same as Fagin's (having been in my high school's production of Oliver some years ago, I'm familiar with that story).
The story takes place almost entirely within the bounds of Valdemar's court city, Haven, and not the nicer parts, either. Lackey brings the poorer quarters of Haven to vivid life, and makes it a place you definitely don't want to visit without several friends and a good, stout walking stick.
Skif's background has never been a secret, and this tale of how he became a thief and then a Herald is a welcome addition to the Valdemar series.
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 1, 2001
About the author
Mercedes Lackey
422 books9,811 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
July 25, 2011
Re-read 2022
One of my favorite books in the Valdemar series. One of the few books I finished this year that was not required reading for college classes.
Re-read 2019
I'm a huge fan of Skif, and his life prior to becoming a herald. He was my second favorite character in the Arrows of the Queen trilogy and I was thrilled when he got his own book.
My absolute favorite book in the series, I just love Skif. I think this is going to be a book I re-read every year.
Re-read 2017 Skif is still one of my favorite characters in Valdemar.
Re-read 2018 Not feeling well and decided to pick up a favorite.
One of my favorite books in the Valdemar series. One of the few books I finished this year that was not required reading for college classes.
Re-read 2019
I'm a huge fan of Skif, and his life prior to becoming a herald. He was my second favorite character in the Arrows of the Queen trilogy and I was thrilled when he got his own book.
My absolute favorite book in the series, I just love Skif. I think this is going to be a book I re-read every year.
Re-read 2017 Skif is still one of my favorite characters in Valdemar.
Re-read 2018 Not feeling well and decided to pick up a favorite.
June 8, 2020
Unfortunately, I found myself in a reading slump again and not up to reading anything difficult or heavy. Then Valdemar got mentioned and it seemed perfect. I have read about seven or eight books as a teenager (the Arrows trilogy, The Last Herald Mage, some of Vows and Honor) and am slowly rereading them. This, however, was a first time read. I wasn't very worried whether it would hold up - most of what I reread did just fine, I knew what to expect, and Take a Thief has a pretty decent reputation.
And sometimes, you just need fluff featuring magical horses and found families.
Skif is the only Herald who used to be a thief. This book focuses almost entirely on his childhood in the slums - the way his relatives mistreated and abused him, how he escaped them and fell in with a gang of thieves, how they taught him to steal, his various escapades and misadventures over the years...in fact, he doesn't meet his Companion until about 60% in. Compared to Talia, who met hers pretty much instantly after being introduced...I think I prefer it this way.
Not only did we get the full context of Skif's background, it did something very, very few pre-modern fantasy books and series do: gave us real insight into how lower class characters in a fantasy world might live. Not just a couple chapters. Not just the unusual events in the character's life. Not focusing on someone who was particularly special compared to others (until he met his Companion, anyway). But fully over half the book of how might a completely ordinary thief get by in the slums. Thief slice of life, essentially. It's neither morally gray nor especially complex since this is Valdemar after all, but it's much more than we usually get and I loved it. I'm getting so sick of books focused on nobility.
As a non-native English speaker I feel like I can't really comment on the accent most of the dialogue was in, except that it was sort of hard to read. No strong feelings, however.
If I have a serious complaint, it would be that female characters are near completely absent, especially positive ones, with agency, who exist outside of their relation to men. There are serving girls and references to prostitution (with classic negativity towards sex workers, sigh) and sexual abuse is essentially taken for granted, especially if a woman is a "half-wit" (ugh ugh ugh). It was pretty damn gross. But aside from that and the one female Herald that briefly appears later on? Nothing. And it would be so easy to make one or several members of Bazie's thieving crew girls, too. The misogyny felt completely unnecessary and was never directly addressed.
Still, if you're looking for a light, popcorn-y, comfy read involving thieves, it might be worth it.
Enjoyment: 5/5
Execution: 3.5/5
Recommended to: fans of thief characters who actually want to see them steal, those curious what a fantasy slum might look like, those looking for a light, quick standalone, anyone who liked Skif in the Arrows trilogy and Valdemar fans in general
Not recommended to: those looking for morally gray stories (this is still Valdemar, after all), if a lack of female characters is a dealbreaker for you since it's a pretty significant flaw, anyone annoyed by written dialect
Content warnings: some abuse, loads of references to and threats of rape, sexual assault, child trafficking, and pedophilia, but nothing graphic or on-screen
More reviews on my blog, To Other Worlds.
And sometimes, you just need fluff featuring magical horses and found families.
Skif is the only Herald who used to be a thief. This book focuses almost entirely on his childhood in the slums - the way his relatives mistreated and abused him, how he escaped them and fell in with a gang of thieves, how they taught him to steal, his various escapades and misadventures over the years...in fact, he doesn't meet his Companion until about 60% in. Compared to Talia, who met hers pretty much instantly after being introduced...I think I prefer it this way.
Not only did we get the full context of Skif's background, it did something very, very few pre-modern fantasy books and series do: gave us real insight into how lower class characters in a fantasy world might live. Not just a couple chapters. Not just the unusual events in the character's life. Not focusing on someone who was particularly special compared to others (until he met his Companion, anyway). But fully over half the book of how might a completely ordinary thief get by in the slums. Thief slice of life, essentially. It's neither morally gray nor especially complex since this is Valdemar after all, but it's much more than we usually get and I loved it. I'm getting so sick of books focused on nobility.
As a non-native English speaker I feel like I can't really comment on the accent most of the dialogue was in, except that it was sort of hard to read. No strong feelings, however.
If I have a serious complaint, it would be that female characters are near completely absent, especially positive ones, with agency, who exist outside of their relation to men. There are serving girls and references to prostitution (with classic negativity towards sex workers, sigh) and sexual abuse is essentially taken for granted, especially if a woman is a "half-wit" (ugh ugh ugh). It was pretty damn gross. But aside from that and the one female Herald that briefly appears later on? Nothing. And it would be so easy to make one or several members of Bazie's thieving crew girls, too. The misogyny felt completely unnecessary and was never directly addressed.
Still, if you're looking for a light, popcorn-y, comfy read involving thieves, it might be worth it.
Enjoyment: 5/5
Execution: 3.5/5
Recommended to: fans of thief characters who actually want to see them steal, those curious what a fantasy slum might look like, those looking for a light, quick standalone, anyone who liked Skif in the Arrows trilogy and Valdemar fans in general
Not recommended to: those looking for morally gray stories (this is still Valdemar, after all), if a lack of female characters is a dealbreaker for you since it's a pretty significant flaw, anyone annoyed by written dialect
Content warnings: some abuse, loads of references to and threats of rape, sexual assault, child trafficking, and pedophilia, but nothing graphic or on-screen
More reviews on my blog, To Other Worlds.
September 5, 2010
First in the series of stories revolving around Skif and twenty-sixth in the overall Valdemar series. If you're interested, there is a chronological listing of the Valdemar books on my website.
My Take
Oh, brother. It's rather gross reading as you start with Lackey describing Uncle Londer's purchasing for his tavern. Yuck. As for Londer's treatment of his family and staff, oy. I do love the karma in this. It's quite the contrast with Queen Selenay who requires a certain level of schooling and introduced free breakfasts for students to help encourage their learning.
Bazie does have a practical mindset when it comes to theft and the plunder's resale. Take a Thief follows Skif as he acquires increasing skill in the burglary trade with plenty of operations in different situations. It'll be excellent training, lol.
Interesting. Cymry explains how Companions Choose, going for those Chosen who are best suited to what the Queen and country need.
Lackey uses third person protagonist point-of-view from Skif's perspective, and we get the full weight of how awful it is to be poor and without family in Haven. It is a huge contrast with what Skif will experience later in the story. I know I felt more satisfied.
It's another series that values males and females, at least among the Heralds, although women aren't first-class citizens in the rest of their world. Yet another contrast between Skif's early childhood and later life.
It's a good pace and mostly easily read — some of that dialect and Alberich's speech patterns will slow you down a bit. There's plenty of action and you'll get a good education in what goes into thieving, lol. Of additional interest are Alberich's plans for Skif and Skif's own experiences in the Collegium. Yep, it's a contrast, all right.
The Story
The dubious shelter of his uncle's tavern and the slop available to eat make Deek's offer heaven-sent. It may be a hard life, but with Bazie and the gang, Skif has enough food and a family.
It's that second fire that sets Skif out on his journey of revenge, utilizing all his skills as a thief. Then an opportunity appears when Skip sees the white horse, and Skif is grinning at the profit to be had until he gets the shock of his life.
The Characters
The book-loving Skif works at the Hollybush Tavern owned by his uncle Londer Galko. Kalchan is his bullying cousin and the eldest son. The half-witted Maisie is the used and very abused waitstaff and cleaner. Old Moll is the cook.
Bazie, a disabled Tedrel mercenary, leads a gang of thieves that includes Deek, Lyle, and Raf. Larap left. Ames, Jodri, and Willem used to be part of the gang. Dooly and Jarmin are used-clothing merchants.
The Heralds, a.k.a. . .
. . . the white shirts, are the ultimate policing authority in Valdemar and are Chosen by a Companion, a white horse-like being. Cymry is one of those Companions. Herald Alberich, a former captain of the Karsite army and the only Herald not to wear whites, is now the Weaponsmaster at the Collegium. Some of his alter egos include Rokassan. Kantor is Alberich's Companion. Herald Teren is in charge of all newly Chosen. Queen's Own Herald Talamir was one of those who rescued Alberich back in Dragon's Teeth: "Stolen Silver". Rolan is his grove-born Companion. Herald-Chronicler Myste maintains Herald histories. Herald Ryvial will investigate. Kris, Dirk who's Kris' best friend, Jeri, Coroc (the Lord Marshal's son), and Nerissa are fellow trainees.
Dean Elcarth is in charge of Herald's Collegium. Gaytha is the Housekeeper. Mero is the Collegium cook. Blues are regular students, not Herald-trainees.
Lord Orthallen is one of the households Skif invades. Kalink is a "new money" grain merchant. Vatean is a wealthy merchant, Guildmaster in the Traders' Guild, and friend of Orthallen. Kash is one of Vatean's bodyguards. Rovenar has moved to his country estate. Trenor Severik is another wealthy merchant whose miniature collection was stolen. Thomlan Vel Cerican is a greedy landlord who squeezes his tenants. Lord Gartheser recommended Vatean to the Council. Lady Cathal speaks for the Guilds.
Talken Kelken, a.k.a. Jass, Hodak, Derial, is an arsonist, thief, and information broker. Young Lonar is bribed to move. The Widder Koil is raising four or five children. Korwain fell into hard luck. Penchal is an artist. Trana and Desi Farane are whores and sisters.
Temples
The Temple of Belden is a charitable order that provides schooling and where Cousin Beel is a novice. Dolly is one of Skif's fellow students. The Temple and Priory of Thenoth, the Lord of the Beasts, care for injured, sick, and aged animals. Most of their priests are people who are without a place in society such as Brother Halcom, who has little sympathy for rich men. Who can blame him! Brother Absel isn't up to heavy work anymore.
A beak is a city watchman. The Broken Arm, run by "Pappa" Serens, is popular with Alberich the spy. The King's Arms is the nearest rival to the Hollybush and its owner hates Uncle Londer and Kalchan. The White Rider is a busy hostelry. The Tedrels were a landless people who went mercenary and worked for anyone. Rethwellan is another country. The Master Thief is something of a Robin Hood, stealing from those who oppress the poor. We would think of an Artificer as an engineer. Karse is a Valdemaran enemy that worships Vkandis Sun God.
The Cover and Title
The cover is divided vertically with two-thirds of the left side a lilac stone wall with a dulled gold heater shield forming a window for a peachy Cymry with her white mane and blue harness to emerge. The right third is a colorful nighttime with a deeper purple sky, a sliver of moon, and a line of houses with Skif in all gray climbing down a wall having emerged from a teal-framed shutter. From the lilac sign below Skif, the building appears to be Jeremy Pye's. Back to the left, the author's name (at the top) and the title (below Cymry) are a deep blue. Just above Cymry's head is the series info in brown.
The title refers to Cymry's smart idea to Take a Thief.
My Take
Oh, brother. It's rather gross reading as you start with Lackey describing Uncle Londer's purchasing for his tavern. Yuck. As for Londer's treatment of his family and staff, oy. I do love the karma in this. It's quite the contrast with Queen Selenay who requires a certain level of schooling and introduced free breakfasts for students to help encourage their learning.
Bazie does have a practical mindset when it comes to theft and the plunder's resale. Take a Thief follows Skif as he acquires increasing skill in the burglary trade with plenty of operations in different situations. It'll be excellent training, lol.
Interesting. Cymry explains how Companions Choose, going for those Chosen who are best suited to what the Queen and country need.
Lackey uses third person protagonist point-of-view from Skif's perspective, and we get the full weight of how awful it is to be poor and without family in Haven. It is a huge contrast with what Skif will experience later in the story. I know I felt more satisfied.
It's another series that values males and females, at least among the Heralds, although women aren't first-class citizens in the rest of their world. Yet another contrast between Skif's early childhood and later life.
It's a good pace and mostly easily read — some of that dialect and Alberich's speech patterns will slow you down a bit. There's plenty of action and you'll get a good education in what goes into thieving, lol. Of additional interest are Alberich's plans for Skif and Skif's own experiences in the Collegium. Yep, it's a contrast, all right.
The Story
The dubious shelter of his uncle's tavern and the slop available to eat make Deek's offer heaven-sent. It may be a hard life, but with Bazie and the gang, Skif has enough food and a family.
It's that second fire that sets Skif out on his journey of revenge, utilizing all his skills as a thief. Then an opportunity appears when Skip sees the white horse, and Skif is grinning at the profit to be had until he gets the shock of his life.
The Characters
The book-loving Skif works at the Hollybush Tavern owned by his uncle Londer Galko. Kalchan is his bullying cousin and the eldest son. The half-witted Maisie is the used and very abused waitstaff and cleaner. Old Moll is the cook.
Bazie, a disabled Tedrel mercenary, leads a gang of thieves that includes Deek, Lyle, and Raf. Larap left. Ames, Jodri, and Willem used to be part of the gang. Dooly and Jarmin are used-clothing merchants.
The Heralds, a.k.a. . .
. . . the white shirts, are the ultimate policing authority in Valdemar and are Chosen by a Companion, a white horse-like being. Cymry is one of those Companions. Herald Alberich, a former captain of the Karsite army and the only Herald not to wear whites, is now the Weaponsmaster at the Collegium. Some of his alter egos include Rokassan. Kantor is Alberich's Companion. Herald Teren is in charge of all newly Chosen. Queen's Own Herald Talamir was one of those who rescued Alberich back in Dragon's Teeth: "Stolen Silver". Rolan is his grove-born Companion. Herald-Chronicler Myste maintains Herald histories. Herald Ryvial will investigate. Kris, Dirk who's Kris' best friend, Jeri, Coroc (the Lord Marshal's son), and Nerissa are fellow trainees.
Dean Elcarth is in charge of Herald's Collegium. Gaytha is the Housekeeper. Mero is the Collegium cook. Blues are regular students, not Herald-trainees.
Lord Orthallen is one of the households Skif invades. Kalink is a "new money" grain merchant. Vatean is a wealthy merchant, Guildmaster in the Traders' Guild, and friend of Orthallen. Kash is one of Vatean's bodyguards. Rovenar has moved to his country estate. Trenor Severik is another wealthy merchant whose miniature collection was stolen. Thomlan Vel Cerican is a greedy landlord who squeezes his tenants. Lord Gartheser recommended Vatean to the Council. Lady Cathal speaks for the Guilds.
Talken Kelken, a.k.a. Jass, Hodak, Derial, is an arsonist, thief, and information broker. Young Lonar is bribed to move. The Widder Koil is raising four or five children. Korwain fell into hard luck. Penchal is an artist. Trana and Desi Farane are whores and sisters.
Temples
The Temple of Belden is a charitable order that provides schooling and where Cousin Beel is a novice. Dolly is one of Skif's fellow students. The Temple and Priory of Thenoth, the Lord of the Beasts, care for injured, sick, and aged animals. Most of their priests are people who are without a place in society such as Brother Halcom, who has little sympathy for rich men. Who can blame him! Brother Absel isn't up to heavy work anymore.
A beak is a city watchman. The Broken Arm, run by "Pappa" Serens, is popular with Alberich the spy. The King's Arms is the nearest rival to the Hollybush and its owner hates Uncle Londer and Kalchan. The White Rider is a busy hostelry. The Tedrels were a landless people who went mercenary and worked for anyone. Rethwellan is another country. The Master Thief is something of a Robin Hood, stealing from those who oppress the poor. We would think of an Artificer as an engineer. Karse is a Valdemaran enemy that worships Vkandis Sun God.
The Cover and Title
The cover is divided vertically with two-thirds of the left side a lilac stone wall with a dulled gold heater shield forming a window for a peachy Cymry with her white mane and blue harness to emerge. The right third is a colorful nighttime with a deeper purple sky, a sliver of moon, and a line of houses with Skif in all gray climbing down a wall having emerged from a teal-framed shutter. From the lilac sign below Skif, the building appears to be Jeremy Pye's. Back to the left, the author's name (at the top) and the title (below Cymry) are a deep blue. Just above Cymry's head is the series info in brown.
The title refers to Cymry's smart idea to Take a Thief.
September 22, 2007
Oh Mercedes Lackey. In an authorial move that had left me severely disappointed in both the Storm Warning series and Exile's series-- she does it again. What could have been an interestingly nuanced coming of age story about a young thief boy's inclusion in an elite group of morally superior and God-backed do-gooders, Mercedes Lackey imposes a ham fisted moral preachiness onto the characters. (One must only be all good or all bad -- well, unless you do bad for the good, in which case it's all right. If you're poor, then you're just too ignorant to be able to either know the difference or do anything else but be ignorant.) All nuance is out the window, and the main boy, bogged down by his own over intelligence and accent, becomes yet another blandly white suburban member of the increasingly bland Heralds.
Alright, I don't at all believe that the author's own morality is nearly as binary as she writes in her stories, but this book does read painfully preachy due to increasing authorial laziness and lack of inspiration. As I continue reading the books in her Valdemar series, I am growing increasingly convinced that she has indeed lost her inspiration somewhere… oh… around the Silver/Black Griffin arc. I think it was a good move on her part to recognize her lack of inspiration and quit the series before it got too terrible (though, in this case, I think she's already reached terrible.) This book was a dull and incoherent rehash of what was written better and far more interestingly in Talia's Arrows arc -- of which something very similar had been done even better in Anne McCaffery's Pern series (which is a similar sort of series). Out of Lackey's Valdemar books, I think this was one of her worst and isn't really worth the read, unless you're either a True Fan or quite bored.
Alright, I don't at all believe that the author's own morality is nearly as binary as she writes in her stories, but this book does read painfully preachy due to increasing authorial laziness and lack of inspiration. As I continue reading the books in her Valdemar series, I am growing increasingly convinced that she has indeed lost her inspiration somewhere… oh… around the Silver/Black Griffin arc. I think it was a good move on her part to recognize her lack of inspiration and quit the series before it got too terrible (though, in this case, I think she's already reached terrible.) This book was a dull and incoherent rehash of what was written better and far more interestingly in Talia's Arrows arc -- of which something very similar had been done even better in Anne McCaffery's Pern series (which is a similar sort of series). Out of Lackey's Valdemar books, I think this was one of her worst and isn't really worth the read, unless you're either a True Fan or quite bored.
November 13, 2020
I was sure there would be drama around Skif entering the Collegium to train to be a Herald. Previous protagonists have been tormented, thrown in freezing rivers, nearly trampled to death, and more. But Take a Thief is the first book in which Lackey shows us that when a person is Chosen, it’s not because he/she is so very good and big of heart, but because the new person fits the needs of the kingdom at that time. Sort of like Darwin’s “survival of the fittest,” Heralds continue to be Chosen based on what attributes they have that will make the kingdom safer and more prosperous. I appreciated that Lackey stripped away the heart of gold stuff and made Take a Thief a more realistic book that looks at the hardships of any place, and how surviving is a skill that applies widely.
Check out the full review at Grab the Lapels.
Check out the full review at Grab the Lapels.
December 26, 2023
Mhm. Ok I’m joining a new cult it seems. (BBC beware )
December 30, 2008
Much of Take a Thief reads like a fantasy version of Oliver Twist- an orphan boy who runs away and joins a gang of pickpockets. Skif is a clever and resourceful lad who learns to survive no matter what. Skif’s routine is interrupted with a tragic fire- which he suspects was not an accident. As he investigates it, he finds that the arson is connected with other wrongdoing. The wretched circumstances which he and his peers endure is astounding- it reminded me of the all too real poverty that exists in our own world. All too often in fantasy we see only the perspective of the nobility, while the everyday lives of the lower classes are only briefly touched on. The reader may wonder where the plot is going- and it indeed about 2/3rds of the novel is about Skif’s life on the streets, until he reaches a fateful turning point.
It takes place over the course of about 5 years or so. But the journey towards that place is a colorful adventure, and it is worth the ride. The action and suspense of the story kept me hooked. This is the second Valdemar book I’ve read, the other being By the Sword. I wouldn’t count this book among my favorites, but I thought it was pretty good. I’d recommend it if you’re looking for something different in fantasy other than the usual knights, princesses and dragons.
It takes place over the course of about 5 years or so. But the journey towards that place is a colorful adventure, and it is worth the ride. The action and suspense of the story kept me hooked. This is the second Valdemar book I’ve read, the other being By the Sword. I wouldn’t count this book among my favorites, but I thought it was pretty good. I’d recommend it if you’re looking for something different in fantasy other than the usual knights, princesses and dragons.
March 16, 2010
Number 27 of 100 to e read in 2010 . . .
I have to say that I think the three novels Lackey wrote in the early 2000s that deal with the interim time between when Selenay takes the throne of Valdemar and when Talia becomes her chief adviser (the Queen's Own) are in many ways the best. These novels, the first two of which deal with Alberich (and who figures prominently in this book) explore issues of honor, of why people fight, and of society and justice as well as any speculative fiction I've ever read.
The main character of this novel is Skiff, sort of a Mercedes Lackey version of Oliver Twist, who will be familiar to readers of the Talia/Arrows of the Queen trilogy as the boy who grows to become Talia's best friend and most trusted adviser. Skiff is a thief, a product of the street, who struggles with life among the urban poor in a medieval society. Fully two thirds of the novel does NOT deal with Heralds, the Collegium, or any of the familiar characters Lackey fans will recognize. But it's a compelling tale, and Skiff is well worth getting to know . . . .
The Oliver Twist parallel is worth exploring, too . . .
I have to say that I think the three novels Lackey wrote in the early 2000s that deal with the interim time between when Selenay takes the throne of Valdemar and when Talia becomes her chief adviser (the Queen's Own) are in many ways the best. These novels, the first two of which deal with Alberich (and who figures prominently in this book) explore issues of honor, of why people fight, and of society and justice as well as any speculative fiction I've ever read.
The main character of this novel is Skiff, sort of a Mercedes Lackey version of Oliver Twist, who will be familiar to readers of the Talia/Arrows of the Queen trilogy as the boy who grows to become Talia's best friend and most trusted adviser. Skiff is a thief, a product of the street, who struggles with life among the urban poor in a medieval society. Fully two thirds of the novel does NOT deal with Heralds, the Collegium, or any of the familiar characters Lackey fans will recognize. But it's a compelling tale, and Skiff is well worth getting to know . . . .
The Oliver Twist parallel is worth exploring, too . . .
June 8, 2014
I like it. Especially the second half.
I like reading about the past of Skif (whom I learned to love in the "Arrows of the Queen"-Trilogy) and several times my heart has been breaking for him. Especially when the building with Bazie burned down. :(
I also loved him meeting Cyrmy and holy, I can't tell you how much I love snarky Companions. Seriously. So much love. <3
I also love the hints and legends about other Heralds (So, in which book do I get the story of Lavan Firestarter and is it going to break my heart like the story of Vanyel Demonstalker? Also, Talamir lost his Companion? OMG. Alberich (who is talking like Yoda which took a bit of getting used to) killed the Prince?!?). <3 It also hurt to meet some people "again" that have been killed in the Arrows trilogy. :(
That being said - I struggled with the first part of the book due to the written "accents". I had to re-read and in some case read aloud the sentences in order to get/understand what's being said. *ugh*
But, all in all I really liked this story from Valdemar and I'm looking forward to the next books in this world. :)
I like reading about the past of Skif (whom I learned to love in the "Arrows of the Queen"-Trilogy) and several times my heart has been breaking for him. Especially when the building with Bazie burned down. :(
I also loved him meeting Cyrmy and holy, I can't tell you how much I love snarky Companions. Seriously. So much love. <3
I also love the hints and legends about other Heralds (So, in which book do I get the story of Lavan Firestarter and is it going to break my heart like the story of Vanyel Demonstalker? Also, Talamir lost his Companion? OMG. Alberich (who is talking like Yoda which took a bit of getting used to) killed the Prince?!?). <3 It also hurt to meet some people "again" that have been killed in the Arrows trilogy. :(
That being said - I struggled with the first part of the book due to the written "accents". I had to re-read and in some case read aloud the sentences in order to get/understand what's being said. *ugh*
But, all in all I really liked this story from Valdemar and I'm looking forward to the next books in this world. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2017
Another book in the Valdemar novels, Take a Thief first drew me in with it's beautiful jacket cover- the white horse or Companion on the from cover is enlarged on the back in a beautiful way, really cementing the idea of Companions. Cymry is a great character on her own, and add to that the fact that we get Skif's back story (Since he features in many of the main stories, it's about time) this book is close to perfection. It's one of the few Valdemar books my library owns, although they are looking into getting more of the three pack series by the look of their catalogue.
I enjoyed this one, although reading Mags first book a few weeks back now had me drawing similarities. It was a relatively quick read too, considering it took only a single afternoon when some of these books have taken half a week or more. Five stars definitely, all these books rate highly with me!
I enjoyed this one, although reading Mags first book a few weeks back now had me drawing similarities. It was a relatively quick read too, considering it took only a single afternoon when some of these books have taken half a week or more. Five stars definitely, all these books rate highly with me!
June 3, 2018
A charming book. It is a re-read, of course, and it reminded me why I liked this writer in the first place. I’m going to re-read her earlier Valdemar books. I think I will enjoy them as I enjoyed this one.
September 28, 2020
This book has been sitting unread on my shelf pretty much since it was published. I recently reread Arrows of the Queen and still loved it, what better opportunity to continue the series with Take A Thief. I got the audiobook, read by Paul Woodson.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the book. Firstly, the narrator got on my nerves. I disliked the accent he gave Cymry and his pronounciation of the name “Alberich” was like nails in my ears (he pronounced it at the end like “rich” as in prosperous. The “German” way would be with a softer ch sound, maybe a bit like the Welsh “ll” or he could have just pronounced it the “normal” English way with a “k” sound).
The story itself was okay, but it started right with the often used description of the evil uncle (or cousin?) as fat and sweaty. This rubs me the wrong way. And I hate, hate, hate it when someone speaks in a Yoda-way to express that it is not their first language. I do not remember Alberich having trouble with grammar in the other books I read and it was inconsistently used. The more I think about it, the more it annoys me. I was also a little surprised that in this book every herald immediately could mind-speak clearly with their companion, even Skif right from the start. And the way that Skif was framed as ‘a vers special herald’ felt artificial and forced (he is the first thief ever to have been chosen and this is A Big Deal).
So sadly, this was not for me. However, I stopped the series a few books before Take A Thief in the past because I did like the newer books. Maybe it is just a continuation here? I am pretty hesitant to read Exile’s Honor and Exile’s Valor now because of fear of grammar-butchering.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the book. Firstly, the narrator got on my nerves. I disliked the accent he gave Cymry and his pronounciation of the name “Alberich” was like nails in my ears (he pronounced it at the end like “rich” as in prosperous. The “German” way would be with a softer ch sound, maybe a bit like the Welsh “ll” or he could have just pronounced it the “normal” English way with a “k” sound).
The story itself was okay, but it started right with the often used description of the evil uncle (or cousin?) as fat and sweaty. This rubs me the wrong way. And I hate, hate, hate it when someone speaks in a Yoda-way to express that it is not their first language. I do not remember Alberich having trouble with grammar in the other books I read and it was inconsistently used. The more I think about it, the more it annoys me. I was also a little surprised that in this book every herald immediately could mind-speak clearly with their companion, even Skif right from the start. And the way that Skif was framed as ‘a vers special herald’ felt artificial and forced (he is the first thief ever to have been chosen and this is A Big Deal).
So sadly, this was not for me. However, I stopped the series a few books before Take A Thief in the past because I did like the newer books. Maybe it is just a continuation here? I am pretty hesitant to read Exile’s Honor and Exile’s Valor now because of fear of grammar-butchering.
July 29, 2012
Structurally, this book is, IMO, rather unsound. The major conflict doesn't appear until nearly halfway through - the entire first part of the book is introducing Skif, showing his crappy life and how he becomes a thief, and basically setting up for the big disaster. After the disaster, there's a longish chunk of him flailing about looking for information, in the course of which he gets Chosen to be a Herald, and then the resolution comes rather wham-bam-thankyou-ma'am in the final two chapters.
Having said that, though, I have to admit that nonetheless, I am still very fond of it. One of the author's major strengths is setting detail and showing the minutiae of her characters' lives, which is something I love to read about. So the entire first section pleases me because it's basically one long "here's how life is for these characters, and here's how their world works". And lots of the middle section involves more of the same, as Skif adjusts to the Collegium (and it to him!). And, of course, Skif is a hugely engaging character - and once he gets Chosen, there's also a lot of Alberich, who is one of my very favourite Valdemaran characters.
So really, I don't care about the flaws. This book pleases me.
Having said that, though, I have to admit that nonetheless, I am still very fond of it. One of the author's major strengths is setting detail and showing the minutiae of her characters' lives, which is something I love to read about. So the entire first section pleases me because it's basically one long "here's how life is for these characters, and here's how their world works". And lots of the middle section involves more of the same, as Skif adjusts to the Collegium (and it to him!). And, of course, Skif is a hugely engaging character - and once he gets Chosen, there's also a lot of Alberich, who is one of my very favourite Valdemaran characters.
So really, I don't care about the flaws. This book pleases me.
November 14, 2020
Returning to the original Skif character is exactly what I needed. He was one of the my favorite characters in The Heralds of Valdemar. It's comforting to return to Skif and Haven, almost like returning home.
This is the first time I've read a fantasy novel that truly explores what the lower classes experienced in a medieval setting. I found it both refreshing and horrifying to read about. Take a Thief, as it's from the perspective of a young boy who has known no other life, unabashedly describes what it might have been like living in medieval slums. People take the jobs they can and work whatever hours they need to feel themselves and provide shelter. And, as a result, everyone works horrible jobs and makes difficult decisions each day. It was heartbreaking to read about. And yet… I really enjoyed reading about it. Unlike with most Valdemar books I feel like I properly learned something here.
As I've come to expect in Valdemar books, Lackey's writing rambles a bit. There are many details and experiences included which, while well written, don't do much to move the plot forward. A result of the rambling nature of Lackey's writing is that, despite well-established characters and an intriguing mystery, the plot drags on. The main plot doesn't even start to manifest until about halfway. And if you're seeking this book to read about Heralds and adventures, well, you won't find that here.
Skif is a character I shall always be fond of. As a result, despite the weaknesses of Take a Thief, I really enjoyed getting lost in this world. Skif is an engaging and thoughtful character who Lackey does a wonderful job developing over the course of the book.
This is the first time I've read a fantasy novel that truly explores what the lower classes experienced in a medieval setting. I found it both refreshing and horrifying to read about. Take a Thief, as it's from the perspective of a young boy who has known no other life, unabashedly describes what it might have been like living in medieval slums. People take the jobs they can and work whatever hours they need to feel themselves and provide shelter. And, as a result, everyone works horrible jobs and makes difficult decisions each day. It was heartbreaking to read about. And yet… I really enjoyed reading about it. Unlike with most Valdemar books I feel like I properly learned something here.
As I've come to expect in Valdemar books, Lackey's writing rambles a bit. There are many details and experiences included which, while well written, don't do much to move the plot forward. A result of the rambling nature of Lackey's writing is that, despite well-established characters and an intriguing mystery, the plot drags on. The main plot doesn't even start to manifest until about halfway. And if you're seeking this book to read about Heralds and adventures, well, you won't find that here.
Skif is a character I shall always be fond of. As a result, despite the weaknesses of Take a Thief, I really enjoyed getting lost in this world. Skif is an engaging and thoughtful character who Lackey does a wonderful job developing over the course of the book.
July 8, 2026
It's been almost a decade since I read Arrows of the Queen, my introduction to the world of Valdemar. Take a Thief was recommended as my next read but languished on my physical TBR for no reason I can adequately explain.
What a mistake. Mercedes Lackey's prose is as warm and inviting as ever, welcoming me back with open arms. I vaguely remembered Skif's character - and recognized one or two other names - but this novel almost stands alone. It's a classic rags to riches tale of a young boy, toughened by absent or cruel family and life in the city slums, who uses his wits and a measure of good luck to survive. Skif may be a thief, but he's a principled one, which may be why he attracts the Heralds' attention. He needs their help too, to take revenge on an arsonist and child trafficker.
If you enjoy fast-moving, cleverly-plotted stories set in a rich fantasy world, with a hero you can truly root for, this is a book for you!
What a mistake. Mercedes Lackey's prose is as warm and inviting as ever, welcoming me back with open arms. I vaguely remembered Skif's character - and recognized one or two other names - but this novel almost stands alone. It's a classic rags to riches tale of a young boy, toughened by absent or cruel family and life in the city slums, who uses his wits and a measure of good luck to survive. Skif may be a thief, but he's a principled one, which may be why he attracts the Heralds' attention. He needs their help too, to take revenge on an arsonist and child trafficker.
If you enjoy fast-moving, cleverly-plotted stories set in a rich fantasy world, with a hero you can truly root for, this is a book for you!
June 10, 2017
Standalone novel which follows the adventures of Skif from the 'Arrows' trilogy. Standard Valdemar fare, but here the added length contributes to a more in depth and enjoyable read.
This would actually be a fairly good book to start with if you haven't previously read any of Lackey's novels. I still feel that I should really be a 16yr old girl when reading these, but they are the ultimate comfort read, so...
This would actually be a fairly good book to start with if you haven't previously read any of Lackey's novels. I still feel that I should really be a 16yr old girl when reading these, but they are the ultimate comfort read, so...
June 21, 2021
3 1/2 stars. It is interesting to read about Skif's back story. In the original trilogy, Skif had a carefree/prankster spirit that I wished was shown a little bit more here. But, good.
December 2, 2025
Nice read.
Did Not Finish
July 3, 2025DNF because I just cannot deal with all the written out accents right now
November 6, 2014
I was rereading the Arrows trilogy and I was reminded how much fun Skif is which in turn reminded me that he had his own book and I had never read it. Immediate book guilt plagued me so I picked it up at the library and read it as soon as was possible. Skif is a lot of fun and while he had a pretty miserable upbringing which didn’t make for very fun reading, the second half of the book was worth everything that preceded it. Seeing how Skif and Alberich “met”, how Skif was chosen and getting to know his Companion were by far some of the best bits from this book. Alberich and Skif are similar schemers at heart, working to do the best they can even if their best is from the shadows. I adored this volume about Skif prior to the happenings of Arrows and focusing on Skif. It really helps the reader understand more about him and how he developed as a person and that awesome rapport with Alberich. I just can’t get over that bit, it is just too awesome! Very enjoyable and I wish I had picked it up sooner!
June 29, 2018
Good story, but so frustrating.
I wanted to give this 5 (or even 4) stars. But I just couldn't. I love Valdemar. Skif is a great character. But this book? It's so hard to read. The dialect in headfirst half is nearly impossible to translate. So much so that after dialogue there is generally a paragraph where the character translates what was said in his head. After about a chapter I just started skipping the dialogue altogether and hoping the summary would be good enough. Half way through when Cymry shows up the dialogue becomes readable, but then the internal narration - which previously wasn't in a dialect - begins to be in dialect. There's no winning!
Long story short - it was a good story that was just painful to read. Which made me sad. I had to read it while reading another book in order to stay sane.
I wanted to give this 5 (or even 4) stars. But I just couldn't. I love Valdemar. Skif is a great character. But this book? It's so hard to read. The dialect in headfirst half is nearly impossible to translate. So much so that after dialogue there is generally a paragraph where the character translates what was said in his head. After about a chapter I just started skipping the dialogue altogether and hoping the summary would be good enough. Half way through when Cymry shows up the dialogue becomes readable, but then the internal narration - which previously wasn't in a dialect - begins to be in dialect. There's no winning!
Long story short - it was a good story that was just painful to read. Which made me sad. I had to read it while reading another book in order to stay sane.
April 3, 2009
I enjoy Skif's cleverness and resilience in this story.
August 25, 2022
*audio*
My favorite Valdemar by a mile.
My favorite Valdemar by a mile.
April 17, 2024
A book for Skiff, the thief turned Herald that we first meet in Arrows for the Queen.
What continuously bothers me about Lackey's world are the continuity errors that I find in her world building.
For example, Skiff isn't the only child living in abject poverty in the capital city Haven. apparently it seems like there are hundreds or even thousands of these neglected children. And apparently also, slavery is allowable until a child is 16.
Being held by a master, given barely enough food to survive and rags to sleep on, and must do whatever the master tells them to until they are of age......
You might be saying to yourself "but this is the way it was in the middle ages, and this fantasy world is based on the middle ages"…
Well yes, dear reader it is.
But the Middle Ages also did not have magic or (basically) descended gods in the form of telepathic horses, or incorruptible knights in quite literally white shining armor that are sworn to justice and equality.
I'm sorry but this does not fit with her idea of a benevolent Queen and the entire structure and tenants of the Heralds, who are sworn to help the poor and weak, and deliver justice.
Skiff does more for the poor and to strike at unscrupulous landlords evicting the poorest tenants than the Heralds, Queen or justices of "Haven".
I can see where this type of environment would thrive farther away from the city, but you have it festering in the exact city where the Heralds are brought and trained? Where the collegium exists? Where the queen herself resides? That just seems like utter hypocrisy...
This is particularly apparent to me in the Exiles Honor book, where 1000 war orphans are taken by the queen and "found good homes".
Um.
Where is she getting the resources to take care of these extra thousand children, when there are just as many in her own city, starving to death? Being beaten, raped and abused?
Apparently The Heralds don't bother with taking care of the people in their own city.
Something else I find particularly aggravating about her writing is that she seems to think that when you're starving to death, freezing to death, or in other ways being abused and traumatized, (even as a child) that you are not a good person if you steal in order to survive. (This is also brought up in the third book of the collegium Chronicles where the author voices the opinion of the three orphans stealing to survive or not "good" simply because they are thieves)....
That somebody living on the brink of starvation, without legs, and simply wanting a full belly and prosthetic legs that don't cause pain constantly "glimmers with greed".
That's not greed… That's basic human necessity and survival.
Oh it's so very convenient when one of the thieves is Chosen, then suddenly there's nothing but all the food he can eat, hot baths, and a free education.
What about everybody else? Those three street girls wearing sackcloth that aren't apparently 'important' enough for them to help.
What continuously bothers me about Lackey's world are the continuity errors that I find in her world building.
For example, Skiff isn't the only child living in abject poverty in the capital city Haven. apparently it seems like there are hundreds or even thousands of these neglected children. And apparently also, slavery is allowable until a child is 16.
Being held by a master, given barely enough food to survive and rags to sleep on, and must do whatever the master tells them to until they are of age......
You might be saying to yourself "but this is the way it was in the middle ages, and this fantasy world is based on the middle ages"…
Well yes, dear reader it is.
But the Middle Ages also did not have magic or (basically) descended gods in the form of telepathic horses, or incorruptible knights in quite literally white shining armor that are sworn to justice and equality.
I'm sorry but this does not fit with her idea of a benevolent Queen and the entire structure and tenants of the Heralds, who are sworn to help the poor and weak, and deliver justice.
Skiff does more for the poor and to strike at unscrupulous landlords evicting the poorest tenants than the Heralds, Queen or justices of "Haven".
I can see where this type of environment would thrive farther away from the city, but you have it festering in the exact city where the Heralds are brought and trained? Where the collegium exists? Where the queen herself resides? That just seems like utter hypocrisy...
This is particularly apparent to me in the Exiles Honor book, where 1000 war orphans are taken by the queen and "found good homes".
Um.
Where is she getting the resources to take care of these extra thousand children, when there are just as many in her own city, starving to death? Being beaten, raped and abused?
Apparently The Heralds don't bother with taking care of the people in their own city.
Something else I find particularly aggravating about her writing is that she seems to think that when you're starving to death, freezing to death, or in other ways being abused and traumatized, (even as a child) that you are not a good person if you steal in order to survive. (This is also brought up in the third book of the collegium Chronicles where the author voices the opinion of the three orphans stealing to survive or not "good" simply because they are thieves)....
That somebody living on the brink of starvation, without legs, and simply wanting a full belly and prosthetic legs that don't cause pain constantly "glimmers with greed".
That's not greed… That's basic human necessity and survival.
Oh it's so very convenient when one of the thieves is Chosen, then suddenly there's nothing but all the food he can eat, hot baths, and a free education.
What about everybody else? Those three street girls wearing sackcloth that aren't apparently 'important' enough for them to help.
February 27, 2025
Well I'm excited to finally start rereading the Last Herald mage and then the Mage winds. As to this book in particular though my thoughts? Skif is one of my favorite characters thus far. A Thief made into a Herald and the Heralds are almost always shall we say if not Always Lawful, for the most part they are, they're only moderately Chaotic, and they are the GOOD guys in Valdemar. if it were Dungeon's and Dragon's Alignment, a Herald would be the Midhaven between Lawful Good and Chaotic good. So something like neutral good-They will do the right thing even if it means breaking the rules or even the law. Let us remember in the real world Slavery was once the law of the land as an Ethics/morality lesson to remember that the law is what is ultimately convenient for those with the most resources usually rather than Closely aligned with Morality. Occasionally it does line up with Morality but, it often diverges from it as well. At other times the law might be well intentioned but harmful nonetheless, like it is with our war on drugs which is why we have Cartels and Gang wars rather than Corporate America and Fair competition supplying the drugs the addicts are addicted to. But in either event. This was a Fun read, I really do wonder after this though how the Hell Lord Orthallen Escaped suspicion all the way to the end of Arrow's fall given it was him that gave the rec to Vatean. who then ordered Jass to Burn down the building where Bazie was living. Was it just that Skif stayed silent? Why for? Then why would Cymry too, given the reality that she was privy to his thoughts?
But in either event, I've clearly read the Arrows Trilogy now, and it's Three Prequels. I do think the suggested reading order is now to Read the Last Herald mage, Trilogy, Which I've done before but have largely forgotten. It will be good going forward though, Into the Mage winds, to have background on Elsepth and even the Villains she faces in it, more complete information on Valdemar. I look forward to it.
Sometimes I feel Lackey writes Formula, but, She's good at it. Not the most Original Author out there, but I find myself largely nodding along to the Morality she pushes in her books. Much as I hate the saying there are many ways to skin a cat, I prefer There are many ways to make an Omelette just to do away with the disturbing metaphor.
See I ultimately agree with her, I grew up with Access to Adult swim and Cartoon Network and off shows like the Boondocks listening to Blessed union of Souls, Tracy chapman and Billie Myers, I really do believe it, it's not just platitudes. Diversity really is our strength.
The funniest comedians are not always but often are black-Or Jewish Atheist.
Basically, she gave me much of my Own Morality. Some people can't stand the Preachiness, but I find almost every Author does this to some extent, Few do I find myself in such Strong agreement with.
But in either event, I've clearly read the Arrows Trilogy now, and it's Three Prequels. I do think the suggested reading order is now to Read the Last Herald mage, Trilogy, Which I've done before but have largely forgotten. It will be good going forward though, Into the Mage winds, to have background on Elsepth and even the Villains she faces in it, more complete information on Valdemar. I look forward to it.
Sometimes I feel Lackey writes Formula, but, She's good at it. Not the most Original Author out there, but I find myself largely nodding along to the Morality she pushes in her books. Much as I hate the saying there are many ways to skin a cat, I prefer There are many ways to make an Omelette just to do away with the disturbing metaphor.
See I ultimately agree with her, I grew up with Access to Adult swim and Cartoon Network and off shows like the Boondocks listening to Blessed union of Souls, Tracy chapman and Billie Myers, I really do believe it, it's not just platitudes. Diversity really is our strength.
The funniest comedians are not always but often are black-Or Jewish Atheist.
Basically, she gave me much of my Own Morality. Some people can't stand the Preachiness, but I find almost every Author does this to some extent, Few do I find myself in such Strong agreement with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2025
This is an interesting little fantasy novel. The main character is Skif, a young orphan who escapes his wicked relations to find himself learning how to scrabbling together a living as a thief. Skif lives in the worst parts of town but learns how to be clever, and be an even more clever thief and get some of the comforts there are to be had in such a grim world.
We mostly follow Skif around and learn how he makes do, makes off with things and gets himself into and out of various trouble; and he is a charming character. We root for him and feel for him. The world he inhabits is so harsh that we keep bumping into unpleasant people and scenarios.
For my taste, there is a little too much lingering on the fates of the unfortunates and the extent of poverty and dirt, crime and horror that happens in this world. It makes sense as far as the story goes, but the horrors that await many a side character are described in more detail than I'd like. I understand that the story is painting a picture of the kind of world Skif inhabits and why he's driven to being a thief, but I'd prefer we had stuck to more details of his clever thievery and less descriptions of what abuses a half-witted girl might endure for instance. But the unfortunates do figure into the plot so I will excuse it.
After Skif steals a horse he gets thrust into a world he did not in the least expect to find himself in. It felt like this encounter should have happened much faster in the book. He meets the horse and the trajectory of his life and the story change, but it doesn't happen until page 256 of my book. Some books would be wrapping up by this point, not changing direction entirely. Perhaps we could have gotten here faster if we hadn't lovingly sketched out exactly how gross Uncle Londer was, or how cheap in every particular way, or some other excessive narration of the worst details.
Anyhow, once Skif steals this horse the world we get to see is different and interesting. We also get to see much more of an interesting character I had hoped we would see more of in the story.
Without saying more to give any spoilers I will simply say it was a good book, the points of grim life that we endure do have a point and it all wraps up nicely at the end leaving you with an idea that much, much more could be written about this world. All in all, I liked the main characters, I enjoyed reading about their clever plans and it ended in a satisfactory way. I would read more books from the Heralds of Valdemar Series.
We mostly follow Skif around and learn how he makes do, makes off with things and gets himself into and out of various trouble; and he is a charming character. We root for him and feel for him. The world he inhabits is so harsh that we keep bumping into unpleasant people and scenarios.
For my taste, there is a little too much lingering on the fates of the unfortunates and the extent of poverty and dirt, crime and horror that happens in this world. It makes sense as far as the story goes, but the horrors that await many a side character are described in more detail than I'd like. I understand that the story is painting a picture of the kind of world Skif inhabits and why he's driven to being a thief, but I'd prefer we had stuck to more details of his clever thievery and less descriptions of what abuses a half-witted girl might endure for instance. But the unfortunates do figure into the plot so I will excuse it.
After Skif steals a horse he gets thrust into a world he did not in the least expect to find himself in. It felt like this encounter should have happened much faster in the book. He meets the horse and the trajectory of his life and the story change, but it doesn't happen until page 256 of my book. Some books would be wrapping up by this point, not changing direction entirely. Perhaps we could have gotten here faster if we hadn't lovingly sketched out exactly how gross Uncle Londer was, or how cheap in every particular way, or some other excessive narration of the worst details.
Anyhow, once Skif steals this horse the world we get to see is different and interesting. We also get to see much more of an interesting character I had hoped we would see more of in the story.
Without saying more to give any spoilers I will simply say it was a good book, the points of grim life that we endure do have a point and it all wraps up nicely at the end leaving you with an idea that much, much more could be written about this world. All in all, I liked the main characters, I enjoyed reading about their clever plans and it ended in a satisfactory way. I would read more books from the Heralds of Valdemar Series.
December 14, 2020
What a great book!
This has to be Mercedes Lackey at her best, and I couldn't put the book down, until the very last page.
She has such a great ability to draw the reader in, grab them, running, and then go on a non-stop race with them - to the point that you become almost breathless, until the very last word is read.
Yes, I know that these books aren't world-changing, but they do give the reader that sense of being within the very lives of the characters she writes about and, when I get to the point where I can't bear to go to sleep, rather than read just one more page, I know the book is a good one - because I always need my sleep! Lol
I really loved the character of Skif, and I also love the way that a Companion can take a person who has been beaten raw by life, but can make that person whole again - wouldn't it be a better world if we all had recourse to these wonderful creatures?
I guess this is just one of the many reasons I enjoy fantasy so much - no matter how dark a person's life can be, in the fictional world, it can be eased by creatures such as Companions!
It had been at least a decade since I read the Valdemar books coming up, chronologically, and so, although I've read all the ones I'll be reading next, I actually can't remember them, as such, so it's going to be fun exploring them all again - I guess this is another time that I'm actually grateful that my memory is so poor, as I can read all of these next books, as if it were the very first time!
The first of them being, Arrows of the Queen 🙂
This has to be Mercedes Lackey at her best, and I couldn't put the book down, until the very last page.
She has such a great ability to draw the reader in, grab them, running, and then go on a non-stop race with them - to the point that you become almost breathless, until the very last word is read.
Yes, I know that these books aren't world-changing, but they do give the reader that sense of being within the very lives of the characters she writes about and, when I get to the point where I can't bear to go to sleep, rather than read just one more page, I know the book is a good one - because I always need my sleep! Lol
I really loved the character of Skif, and I also love the way that a Companion can take a person who has been beaten raw by life, but can make that person whole again - wouldn't it be a better world if we all had recourse to these wonderful creatures?
I guess this is just one of the many reasons I enjoy fantasy so much - no matter how dark a person's life can be, in the fictional world, it can be eased by creatures such as Companions!
It had been at least a decade since I read the Valdemar books coming up, chronologically, and so, although I've read all the ones I'll be reading next, I actually can't remember them, as such, so it's going to be fun exploring them all again - I guess this is another time that I'm actually grateful that my memory is so poor, as I can read all of these next books, as if it were the very first time!
The first of them being, Arrows of the Queen 🙂
December 8, 2017
I read this once, long ago, and decided to read it again. I really love the character, Skif, the thief. He's resourceful and intelligent and acted in a believable manner. He was small and young, so he did what he could to avoid notice. He was able to infiltrate busy places and sneak food. And I liked the positive people in his life. Seeing Alberich again was fun too. I might have to reread his books too!
It wasn't a perfect score for me because I feel like his life before becoming a Herald was a bit too drawn out vs his life after being Chosen which wrapped up the plot rather too fast. I would have liked less of the poor and more of the Chosen.
Another reason I dinged it a star is because of the hard to slog through gutter speak that detracted more than it added value in its realism. This is one thing that I really don't like, so take it with a grain of salt if you don't mind heavily accented dialog. It was very pervasive in Skif's early life and made it a struggle for me to understand what some of the words were trying to say. So the fact that I enjoyed the book despite this says much about how good I thought the story was.
The final reason it wasn't a perfect score was a lot of the day to day activity during Skif's pre-Chosen life tended to feel a bit slow and boring. I wanted the pace to move a bit faster.
Overall, this was a pretty typical Valdemar story and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys the world.
It wasn't a perfect score for me because I feel like his life before becoming a Herald was a bit too drawn out vs his life after being Chosen which wrapped up the plot rather too fast. I would have liked less of the poor and more of the Chosen.
Another reason I dinged it a star is because of the hard to slog through gutter speak that detracted more than it added value in its realism. This is one thing that I really don't like, so take it with a grain of salt if you don't mind heavily accented dialog. It was very pervasive in Skif's early life and made it a struggle for me to understand what some of the words were trying to say. So the fact that I enjoyed the book despite this says much about how good I thought the story was.
The final reason it wasn't a perfect score was a lot of the day to day activity during Skif's pre-Chosen life tended to feel a bit slow and boring. I wanted the pace to move a bit faster.
Overall, this was a pretty typical Valdemar story and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys the world.
October 7, 2017
Skif was a scrappy little Valdemeran dude, hangin out in the slums and pinching good food from the tables of the rich when karma hit him. He ran into another thief, better dressed, better at the job, and -being bright- made a friend.
He quickly found out why true thieves were few and far between. It was easy enough to pick something up, but picking something out was another skill entirely, skill set in fact. Stealth, agility, subterfuge, acting. Even math, for the fencing. His days were full of intrigue, but his nights were safe and his stomach was full. Until he met a white horse.
They say that's the sign that saves you, but it signed him up for a life that was so much more dangerous, but hopefully more rewarding. He wasn't sure they'd accept him, his life had been outside the law, necessary or not as that was for his survival. Turned out the street were better trainers than the programs that the Heralds ran...
Anne Jindra
What To Play Next on YouTube
BadFantasyRx.blogspot.com
https://badfantasyrx.blogspot.com/201...
He quickly found out why true thieves were few and far between. It was easy enough to pick something up, but picking something out was another skill entirely, skill set in fact. Stealth, agility, subterfuge, acting. Even math, for the fencing. His days were full of intrigue, but his nights were safe and his stomach was full. Until he met a white horse.
They say that's the sign that saves you, but it signed him up for a life that was so much more dangerous, but hopefully more rewarding. He wasn't sure they'd accept him, his life had been outside the law, necessary or not as that was for his survival. Turned out the street were better trainers than the programs that the Heralds ran...
Anne Jindra
What To Play Next on YouTube
BadFantasyRx.blogspot.com
https://badfantasyrx.blogspot.com/201...
May 20, 2020
This is the first of the Valdemar books I've read, though clearly not the first in the series. Yet Lackey does an excellent job of pulling you into her world, even if you've never stepped foot into it before. Her setting is simultaneously fantastical and relatable. She introduces a cast of well-rounded characters with unpolished lives in a world that is unapologetically imperfect.
There were only a few things that I wasn't keen on. One was Alberich's dialect. Although I get that the author was trying to convey that he wasn't speaking in his first language, his stilted speech didn't feel like it had any grammatical structure at all. It made the dialogue difficult to follow and a bit frustrating.
There were also a surprising number of typos, which is more on the editor than the author. I found myself having to go back and reread sentences quite a few times.
Despite these two things, it was truly worth the read! Honestly, it was the first book in quite some time that I didn't want to set down. I'll definitely be looking into this series more.
There were only a few things that I wasn't keen on. One was Alberich's dialect. Although I get that the author was trying to convey that he wasn't speaking in his first language, his stilted speech didn't feel like it had any grammatical structure at all. It made the dialogue difficult to follow and a bit frustrating.
There were also a surprising number of typos, which is more on the editor than the author. I found myself having to go back and reread sentences quite a few times.
Despite these two things, it was truly worth the read! Honestly, it was the first book in quite some time that I didn't want to set down. I'll definitely be looking into this series more.
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