Book:Magic's Promise

Mercedes Lackey
Fantasy
Penguin Group / January 1990
Mass Market / 320 pages
Last Herald-Mage Series, #2

The Wild Magic is taking its toll on the land. Many Heralds and Herald-Mages have died fighting to preserve the peace. Even Vanyel, the most powerful of all the Herald-Mages, is almost at the end of his strength, in need of a respite from the dual threats of war and dark magic. But for Vanyel, there can be no rest. Not when his Companion, Yfandes, receives a summons which can't be ignored - a desperate cry for help which draws them both into the heart of a magical holocaust in the neighboring kingdom. Almost overwhelmed by the devastation they discover there, Herald-Mage and Companion must try to unravel this tragic mystery. Is the young Prince Tashir, a newly Chosen Herald who can't control his own magic, responsible for the destruction? Or is Tashir a pawn in a deeper, more deadly game - and, if so, will Vanyel be able to find and defeat the true destroyer before this master of dark powers can strike again?

I picked this book up because This happens ALOT - but it was the next book in a series.

What I liked the Most? The character development of the first book is something that really impressed me, and it continues here.

What I liked the Least? Tashir - what a little idiot.

Review:Vanyel, older but still a young man, has experienced a lot in his short life, but still has much to learn - about himself, about love and life. Unfortunately he has continued to isolate himself, and is often confused, angry, hurt. The plot can be a little tricky to follow at times but it's a matter of keep reading, things do become clear.

Recommended to: Fans of the series, emotional readers

Best Quote: "I choose to remember you in love, not tears" - Vanyel

Challenges: GLBT, Summer Reading, 100+, Para999