Mercedes Lackey

In this chronicle of the early history of Valdemar, Mercedes Lackey's bestselling world, a thirteen-year-old orphan named Magpie escapes a life of slavery in the gem mines when he is chosen by one of the magical Companion horses of Valdemar to be trained as a Herald. Thrust into the center of a legend in the making, Magpie discovers talents he never knew he had--and witnesses the founding of the great Heralds' Collegium.

The eldest daughter is often doomed in fairy tales. But Bella vows to escape the usual pitfalls. She dons a red cloak and ventures into the forbidden forest to consult with "Granny," the local wisewoman. On the way home she's attacked by a wolf-- who turns out to be a cursed nobleman! Secluded in his castle, Bella is torn between her family and this strange man who creates marvelous inventions and makes her laugh-- when he isn't howling at the moon....

"When Miriam's younger sister, Princess Aurora, is born, she must learn to harness her new magical powers to protect her sister and the kingdom"--

When Mags (Magpie), a thirteen-year-old orphan chosen by one of the magical Companion horses of Valdemar and taken to the capital city, she is "recognized" by foreign secret operatives whose purpose is unknown, and then comes under suspicion.

Acting as the "son" her father never had, Gwenhwyfar, when called upon to serve another purpose by the Ladies of the Well, bows to circumstances to become Arthur's queen--only to find herself facing temptation and treachery, intrigue and betrayal, but also love and redemption.

Elemental Earth Master Richard Whitestone, devastated by the death of his beloved wife during childbirth, has ignored his daughter for years, until he conceives of a twisted plan to use her body to bring back the spirit of his wife.

Mags travels to the Bastion in search of his parents' identity and a possible explanation for being pursued by Valdemar's enemies.