A book with a most fitting title and another stroke of genius by Mercedes Lackey

In Foundation, the first book of the Collegium Chronicles, we return to Valdemar to meet young Mags. Who, in the beginning of the book, is a mine slave and knows little to nothing about the World, let alone Valdemar. He is freed from his disillusioning and abusive situation when he is chosen by the Companion Dallen. Mags gets taken to Haven, Valdemar’s capital, to become a Herald Trainee. Upon arrival, he quickly realizes the differences between his upbringing and that of his peers. These children, often highborn, grew up sheltered whereas he was forced to face the cruelty that humanity can hold. Now he needs to learn how to open up, relate to others, and form relationships. All while intrigue brews in the dark.

This series underlines and explains the changes the Collegium went through until it reaches the system we got to know in Arrows of the Queen. In accordance with its name, it builds a solid foundation point for the world building of the Valdemar series. Though not the first Valdemar book I have read, I think it would make a good entry point for new readers looking to emerge themselves into this fantastic world.

In Mags, Mercedes Lackey has created a sympathetic main character, with a surprisingly cunning side and much room for character growth in the following books. Her brilliant writing style emphasizes the struggles and emotions that the protagonist goes through in this high fantasy coming of age story.

Nick Podehl’s narration gives life to this book in a myriad of ways. He beautifully accentuates the ups and downs of the plot, while creating easily distinguishable accents and voices for the characters. That being said, I do have a point of critique, some of the character and place names do not stay consistent in between the different Valdemar series, which can lead to slight irritations while listening to this series.

All in all I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to all fans of the high fantasy genre.

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