The Black Gryphon chronologically this is where the Velgarth books or more commonly known as Valdemar series begins
The Mage Wars is a time where war has enveloped the world and with it the magics that are used.
It has some of the best magical beings as well as it has Gryphons which are a bit of a fixation at times for me. Also a lot of created races as well that are mythological.
When I read this when it came out I will be honest I wasn’t impressed at all. I thought it made the world that I loved seemed so trivial and even frivolous. Now I feel much differently as I think it has some of the most amazing character generation that I have seen.
Amberdrake is a great character though as a Kestrachern which is a bit of a strange profession that seems to be counsellor as well as massage therapist. His character is also a powerful empath which makes things interesting as you read further.
Skandranon is a powerful figure for me as he has weakness as well as strength. He can fly which is also what I really love about him. Yes he is a vain bird but he has a heart of gold.
I think this is what makes Mercedes Lackey such a unique author. She writes her characters with such passion and those that are different.
I also really enjoy that she has so many different character types. She is one of the most inclusive authors I have ever seen as she shows that there are other avenues people take. She writes characters who are part of the LGBTQ+ group and it was the first time I have ever seen that in fantasy years ago.
Crazy Canadian Writing 