Step into the enchanting world of Valdemar, where magical gryphons soar, noble Heralds ride mystical Companions, and a kingdom’s destiny unfolds across centuries! Created by Mercedes Lackey, the Valdemar series is a sprawling fantasy saga set in the richly crafted world of Velgarth. Since its debut in 1987, this beloved series has captivated readers with its blend of magic, adventure, and heartfelt bonds between humans and otherworldly creatures.
From the founding of a kingdom by the courageous Baron Valdemar to epic battles against dark forces, the series weaves a tapestry of heroism and hope. Whether you’re a fantasy veteran or new to Velgarth, Valdemar’s immersive storytelling and vibrant characters promise an unforgettable journey.
How Valdemar Began
In 1987, Mercedes Lackey, a fantasy enthusiast from Oklahoma, published Arrows of the Queen, launching the Valdemar saga. Inspired by her love for epic fantasy and mythology, Lackey crafted Velgarth as a quasi-medieval world brimming with magic and mythical beings. Her goal was to create a universe where ordinary people, chosen for their innate gifts, could rise as heroes. Over three decades, Lackey, sometimes collaborating with her husband Larry Dixon, expanded Valdemar into a series spanning over 40 books, blending trilogies, standalone novels, and anthologies.
The Heart of Valdemar
The Valdemar series unfolds across multiple timelines, with key books setting the stage for its epic scope. The Black Gryphon (1994), part of the Mage Wars trilogy, introduces Skandranon Rashkae, a majestic gryphon fighting in a prehistoric war. Set 1,000 years before Valdemar’s founding, it explores themes of loyalty and sacrifice. Arrows of the Queen (1987) follows Talia, a young girl chosen by a magical Companion to become a Herald, navigating political intrigue and personal growth. Magic’s Pawn (1989), from the Last Herald-Mage trilogy, traces Vanyel Ashkevron’s journey as a powerful mage facing love and loss. Beyond (2021), part of the Founding of Valdemar trilogy, chronicles Baron Valdemar’s escape from tyranny to establish his kingdom.
Valdemar’s themes resonate deeply: justice, as Heralds uphold fairness; camaraderie, through bonds with Companions, horse-like beings with telepathic powers; and resilience, as characters overcome adversity. The setting of Velgarth, with its diverse cultures, magical creatures like gryphons and Hawkbrothers, and a structured magic system, immerses readers in a vivid world. Lackey’s accessible prose and focus on character-driven stories make the series both epic and relatable, appealing to fans of high fantasy.
Why Valdemar Resonates
The Valdemar series has left a lasting mark on fantasy literature, earning a devoted fanbase and inspiring adaptations, including a planned TV series based on the Last Herald-Mage trilogy. Its inclusive storytelling, featuring diverse characters and themes of acceptance, has resonated with readers for decades. Valdemar’s emphasis on hope and heroism continues to attract new fans, while its expansive lore rewards longtime readers. Lackey’s ability to craft interconnected yet accessible stories ensures the series remains a cornerstone of epic fantasy.
- First Book: Arrows of the Queen (1987)
- Number of Books: Over 40, including trilogies and anthologies
- Key Creatures: Gryphons, Companions, Hawkbrothers
- Awards: Magic’s Price won the Lambda Literary Award in 1990
Ready to gallop into a world of magic and adventure? Grab Arrows of the Queen and discover why Valdemar’s epic saga has enchanted readers for generations!