Valdemar

Valdemar is the conclusion of the Founding of Valdemar series, which is a prequel to the larger Valdemar series that starts with Arrows of the Queen.

The Valdemar series has always been cozy fic, before cozy fic was a thing. It is a fluffy, escapist delight. Yes there are bad guys, but it's never so bad we can't beat them, and the good guys are truly good. It's not too complex, so if you're looking for deeply flawed heroes or anti-heroes, this isn't the place to look. Every child who reads these books (and most of the adults, I'd wager) dream about being chosen by a Companion, joining the ranks of the Heralds and being welcomed into an enormous found family, and adventuring on the side of Right and Good. Because the Kingdom of Valdemar has always stood on the principles of what is right and good, and the Companions are what has anchored the Kingdom and it's government and people to that foundation.

And in the concluding book of this trilogy, we finally get what we've been waiting for - the story of how, when and why the first Companions appeared in Valdemar, bonding with their Chosen and changing the trajectory of a budding new kingdom.

I read this book as a palate cleanser in between some heavier books, and it was exactly what I needed. It's like a light, airy desert after a rich and heavy dinner. This book in particular did feel a little less detailed in it's story and plot than the first two of the trilogy, and that's the only reason it's not a full four stars - I'd give it a 3.8 if I could do partials. But it was still a perfect ‘curl up under a blanket with some tea and daydream' book.

If you are a fan of the original Valdemar series, then this is a must read. If you were a horse girl as a child, this is a must read. Or if you're just looking for a magical, cozy fantasy fic to relax with, then this is it.