The Heralds of Valdemar (Deluxe Hardcover)

This first-of-its-kind deluxe edition collects all three novels in the groundbreaking and critically acclaimed trilogy that introduced readers to Valdemar, Mercedes Lackey's renowed fantasy realm: Arrows of the Queen, Arrow’s Flight, and Arrow’s Fall.

With an elegant new cover and shimmering metallic finish, designed sprayed edges, and a foil case stamp depicting the national crest of Valdemar, The Heralds of Valdemar is the perfect collector’s item for new and returning readers eager to delve into a foundational piece of fantasy history.

Born into a restrictive religious community, Talia is about to be made into a child-bride when she is Chosen by the Companion Rolan, a mystical horse-like being with magical powers. Believing that she is returning him to his proper home, Talia learns that, in fact, she has been selected to become one of the great Heralds of Valdemar, a protector of the realm and the "Queen's Own." When fully trained, she will be the Queen's confidant and charged with her safety.

Over the course of Talia's adventures, she struggles to master Empathy, her unique magical gift, which enables her to detect the emotions and motivations of others to protect her queen, the heir to the throne, and the kingdom itself from diabolical magic, treacherous assassination plots, dangerous unrest, and traitors to her, both her fellow Heralds and the entire Kingdom of Valdemar.

Full of political intrigue, heroes that are just and good, and complex romantic arcs that are emotionally intimate and intensely poignant, this expansive fantasy trilogy introduced the world to Valdemar and changed the fantasy landscape forever.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs