Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey

Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey - 320 pages

Talia has always dreamed of Heralds.  It is her deepest desire to see a Herald and its Companion one day.  So she is shocked when a Companion shows up without a Herald.  She decides it is up to her to return the Companion to the Capital.  Little does she know this is the start of her journey to becoming a Herald herself.

This is the first book in the Queen's Own (Valdemar) series by Mercedes Lackey.  This was the book that got me interested in reading fantasy as a teen.  I decided to read it again to see if I liked it as much now . . . I do.  I'm looking forward to re-reading the rest of the series.

Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey

Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey  320 pages

Talia, a young runaway, is made a herald at the royal court after she rescues one of the legendary Companions. When she uncovers a plot to seize the throne, Talia must use her empathic powers to save the queen.

Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey

Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey - 320 pages

Talia's fondest wish comes true when she is Chosen to be a Herald a Valdemar.  In fact, she will be the new Queen's Own, the most important advisor to the queen in the country.  First, though she has to survive assassination attempts, assist in espionage, and get the basic training of all Heralds.
I listened to the audio version of this book.  It was the very first book of Mercedes Lackey that I ever read (nearly twenty years ago) and I've been hooked ever since.  While I still liked the story, I did not care for the narrator.  She didn't really use any emotion in her reading.  It also had awkward pauses at times while running together the words at others.  I would definitely recommend reading the book over listening to it.