Arrows of the Queen ( The Heralds of Valdemar, Book 1)

Read this first in Jr. High and loved it. A second reading as an adult found the relationships lacking depth (wow, who'd of thought maturity would bring that on.) The book was still enjoyable, even if a little frustrating at times wondering why the obvious takes so long to be figured out.

An excellent story - unique - and great story telling by the author. Love the way how she described the connection between the main character and her horse. The story kept you wanting more, although the other two books in 'The Heralds of Valdemar' series weren't nearly as good.

Yes, it's a clichéd coming of age/wish fulfillment plot. But the story of Talia is well done enough for that to not really matter.

This series follows The Last Herald Mage trilogy. I love all of the tales of Valdemar that have been added over the years. I don't think that I could ever get enough of reading about this Kingdom, the Heralds, and their Companions.