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Under The Vale And Other Tales Of Valdemar (2011)

by Mercedes Lackey(Favorite Author)

3.93 of 5 Votes: 2

ISBN

075640696X (ISBN13: 9780756406967)

languge

English

genre

Fantasy

publisher

DAW

series

Tales of Valdemar

review 1: Basically a collection of fanfic from professional authors. I could have done without the sometimes heavy-handed commentary on contemporary social issues or the "moral" stories (or the incredibly uninteresting Ree/Jem stories), but I don't regret reading it. I did enjoy Larry Dixon's technical discussion of Vale construction, as well as the story Fog of War, which was obviously written by someone with a strong background in military knowledge.
review 2: 4 3/4 stars!“Under the Vale and Other Tales of Valdemar” is the newest anthology edited by Mercedes Lackey which features sixteen short stories and one essay exploring the many varied themes of her well-established fantasy world. The breadth of themes available to expound upon in Valdemar are showcased in ... moretales which touch upon the life-changing act of Choosing (‘In an Instant’ by Elizabeth A. Vaughan) or others that show the variety of jobs that the Chosen can perform, some with more grace than others, (‘Catch Fire, Draw Flame’ by Rosemary Edgehill and Denise McCune, ‘Fog of War’ by Ben Ohlander, ‘Sight and Sound’ by Stephanie D. Shaver and ‘Family Matters’ by Tanya Huff). The various Talents possessed by the inhabitants of Valdemar and its surroundings are explored in the unconventional ‘The Simple Gifts’ by Misty Lackey herself, as well as ‘A Healer’s Work’ by Daniel Shull, ‘Slow and Steady’ by Brenda Cooper, ‘A Leash of Greyhounds by Elisabeth Waters, and ‘Discordance’ by Jennifer Brozek. We are reminded that there are many cultures that interact with Valdemar including the Tayledras (‘Warp and Weft’ by Kristin Schwengel), Karsite (‘Judgment’ Day by Nancy Asire) and Shin’a’in (‘The Bride’s Task’ by Michael Z. Williamson and Gail L. Sanders). The anomalous hobgoblin Ree, his beloved Jem and their family are revisited in Kate Paulk’s ‘Heart’s Peril’ and Sarah A. Hoyt’s ‘Heart’s Place’ while Fiona Patton focuses on the rarely examined peacekeepers in ‘The Watchman’s Ball’. Last, but certainly not least, Larry Dixon expounds on an example of the intricate detail and hard work that comprise this remarkable body of work that he and his wife and collaborator have created with his essay ‘Under the Vale’.This is a fascinating collection of tales that celebrate the myriad themes in the Mercedes Lackey Valdemar series. There is something for every fan and enough variety to garner new devotees to this wonderful fantasy world. Each author showcases a different aspect of Heralds, their delightful (and opinionated) Companions and/or the kingdom that they are devoted to and will undoubtedly tempt readers to read their other works. It was very entertaining to explore the elements of a Vale and eye-opening to learn that Hertasi have their own motto, difficult to read about the ravages of war and intriguing to explore the impact that becoming a Herald will have upon a betrothed couple. The new perspectives provided by these varied voices add depth to an already well-built world and give a very enjoyable read. less

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