Brightly Burning

By: Mercedes Lackey

Narrated by: Daniel Thomas May

Lavan Chitward is a very unhappy young man; pulled away from his country home by his parents' ambitions and resettled in the big city of Haven, he is desperately lonely, bullied and beaten at school, ignored by his parents. It is not surprising that he falls ill - but his illness is the first manifestation of a terrible power, the Gift of the Firestorm, a power which can and does kill. If controlled, the Gift of the Firestorm can save Valdemar, but if it is uncontrolled, it will destroy the country - and him. Chosen by the Companion Kalira, brought into the ranks of the Heralds of Valdemar, Lavan finds acceptance and hope for the first time. But war with Karse threatens to engulf the Kingdom and only Lavan Firestorm stands between Valdemar and destruction - and only then if he can harness his dreadful power to his will.

©2000 Mercedes R. Lackey (P)2020 Tantor

excellent voice acting, terrific plot.

I've always enjoyed Mercedes Lackeys' work. She has excellent characterization, beautiful descriptive text, and compelling plot work. this story follows the adventures of a young herald as he grows into his role.

Incredibly sad

Lan didn’t have a great life. Unloved at home and bullied at school. When it became too tough the ability to create fires manifested and his tormentors were done. That’s when Kalira chose him, the only Companion who would and the only one who could help him control his abilities.

Life among the Heralds was much better for there was still distrust. They feared his power and on multiple times questioned if Kalira was correct in choosing him even though they cannot choose anyone who isn’t good at heart. She reminded them of the mistakes made with Tylendel from The Last Herald-Mage. His Companion and the Heralds failed him and it led to disaster. Kalira was determined to keep them from happening again.

Lan never wanted to hurt anyone but the Karsites started a war (again) and the choice was taken from him. Without Lan the war could not have been won. I’ve read before that certain Gifts arise as needed and that was the case here since it was very rare.

I think I felt Lan’s pain throughout the entire book. That Lackey (writer) and Daniel Thomas May (narrator) could convey that is a powerful testament to how good the story was.

Great story, annoying reader

Dearly love the story, but someone please explain why the reader tries to give each character a unique voice when all he can do is either give them a harsh whisper or make them sound like they are trying to be Bonny Prince Charlie?

Narrator so-so

I think a different narrator would have been better. This one didn't do much for me when it came to women's and Companions' voices.

a powerful, moving,and compelling story

excellently written, expertly voiced. wholeheartedly captivating. it was a joy to read, and I was saddened when it ended.