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Prisoner of Ice and Snow
In a thrilling fantasy that’s equal parts Prison Break and Frozen, Valor attempts the impossible—breaking her sister out of prison.
When Valor is arrested, she couldn’t be happier. Demidova’s prison for criminal children is exactly where she wants to be. Valor’s sister Sasha is already serving a life sentence for stealing from the royal family and Valor is going to help her escape . . . from the inside.
Never mind that no one has escaped in three hundred years. Valor has a plan and resources most could only dream about. But she didn't count on having to outsmart both the guards and her fellow prisoners. If Valor’s plan is to succeed, she’ll need to make unlikely allies. And if the plan fails, she and Sasha could end up with fates worse than prison.
This fresh and exciting middle-grade debut effortlessly melds an unforgettable protagonist, a breathless plot, and stunning world-building—and is impossible to put down.
When Valor is arrested, she couldn’t be happier. Demidova’s prison for criminal children is exactly where she wants to be. Valor’s sister Sasha is already serving a life sentence for stealing from the royal family and Valor is going to help her escape . . . from the inside.
Never mind that no one has escaped in three hundred years. Valor has a plan and resources most could only dream about. But she didn't count on having to outsmart both the guards and her fellow prisoners. If Valor’s plan is to succeed, she’ll need to make unlikely allies. And if the plan fails, she and Sasha could end up with fates worse than prison.
This fresh and exciting middle-grade debut effortlessly melds an unforgettable protagonist, a breathless plot, and stunning world-building—and is impossible to put down.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
April 8, 2017
sisterly love + brave heroine + adventure
Want to read
August 13, 2017"In a thrilling fantasy that’s equal parts Prison Break and Frozen ..."
🤔
Uhhh those are two things I would never have thought would be used together to describe a middle grade novel ...
🤔
Uhhh those are two things I would never have thought would be used together to describe a middle grade novel ...
December 15, 2017
I was gifted an ebook via Netgalley.
I must have missed that the MC is 13 yr old in the beginning of the book, but that definitely makes more sense at the maturity of the story - not in terms of things happening in the book, but how it was written. It's not a lighthearted, quirky read. It's much more an atmospheric, dark read and I really enjoyed it. The Russia-like fantasy setting with the sisterhood and friendship made for such a great story. I really loved Valor and her determination to save her sister from a life in prison. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend this to fans of fantasy even if you don't read middle grade. It's definitely on that fine line between MG and YA - bonus: no romance!
I must have missed that the MC is 13 yr old in the beginning of the book, but that definitely makes more sense at the maturity of the story - not in terms of things happening in the book, but how it was written. It's not a lighthearted, quirky read. It's much more an atmospheric, dark read and I really enjoyed it. The Russia-like fantasy setting with the sisterhood and friendship made for such a great story. I really loved Valor and her determination to save her sister from a life in prison. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend this to fans of fantasy even if you don't read middle grade. It's definitely on that fine line between MG and YA - bonus: no romance!
December 21, 2018
5 Words: Family, power, imprisonment, survival, betrayal.
I loved this!
It's an excellent adventure that will make you feel COLD. I definitely think it sits at the higher end of MG, younger end of teen, as it gets a bit grim.
Full review to come.
I loved this!
It's an excellent adventure that will make you feel COLD. I definitely think it sits at the higher end of MG, younger end of teen, as it gets a bit grim.
Full review to come.
September 4, 2017
Prisoner of Ice and Snow throws us right in at the deep end. From the very first pages we are in the thick of the main plot and it took me a few chapters to fully understand and realise what was going on. Maybe that’s the YA fantasy reader in me though who is used to chapters of world building at the beginning of the books I read, so that isn’t a criticism by any means.
Valor, our leading lady, willingly commits a crime in order to get herself sent to the same prison as Sasha, her twin sister. The prison itself is horrible and that goes to show how great a sacrifice Valor has made for her sister. I really loved that this book was about sisters because it made me think of my own and I know that I would also do anything to protect or help my own sister. I think many young readers will also admire Valor for her bravery and courage, definitely two traits that I was really pleased to see represented by a female character in middle grade literature.
The plot was interesting with the right amount of twists and turns along the way but I found that the pace was quite on/off. Some chapters felt full of action and others seemed a lot slower. I didn’t know when reading this that it is the first book in a series and so I was disappointed with the ending. Knowing now that it is a series I think the ending makes more sense but it still frustrated me slightly as it felt very rushed. It has certainly left itself open for plenty more action in the next book though and I’m sure younger readers will audibly gasp at the last couple of paragraphs.
As far as characters go there wasn’t enough detail for me. I felt like I got to know Valor quite well but I really wanted more depth to the other characters she befriends along the way. There’s a fab selection of characters and I really wanted to get to know more about them, maybe that will come in book two. Valor is a character I can imagine a lot of young readers really liking, especially young girls who may feel inspired by her courage and bravery. She does make some decisions that are really not very well thought through and at times she was a bit unlikeable to me but that’s just my own opinion.
Overall I thought this was a good book with an interesting plot, plenty of action and a nice selection of characters. I’m sure younger readers will enjoy this quick fantasy, especially any sisters out there.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bloomsbury and the author for my copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Valor, our leading lady, willingly commits a crime in order to get herself sent to the same prison as Sasha, her twin sister. The prison itself is horrible and that goes to show how great a sacrifice Valor has made for her sister. I really loved that this book was about sisters because it made me think of my own and I know that I would also do anything to protect or help my own sister. I think many young readers will also admire Valor for her bravery and courage, definitely two traits that I was really pleased to see represented by a female character in middle grade literature.
The plot was interesting with the right amount of twists and turns along the way but I found that the pace was quite on/off. Some chapters felt full of action and others seemed a lot slower. I didn’t know when reading this that it is the first book in a series and so I was disappointed with the ending. Knowing now that it is a series I think the ending makes more sense but it still frustrated me slightly as it felt very rushed. It has certainly left itself open for plenty more action in the next book though and I’m sure younger readers will audibly gasp at the last couple of paragraphs.
As far as characters go there wasn’t enough detail for me. I felt like I got to know Valor quite well but I really wanted more depth to the other characters she befriends along the way. There’s a fab selection of characters and I really wanted to get to know more about them, maybe that will come in book two. Valor is a character I can imagine a lot of young readers really liking, especially young girls who may feel inspired by her courage and bravery. She does make some decisions that are really not very well thought through and at times she was a bit unlikeable to me but that’s just my own opinion.
Overall I thought this was a good book with an interesting plot, plenty of action and a nice selection of characters. I’m sure younger readers will enjoy this quick fantasy, especially any sisters out there.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bloomsbury and the author for my copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
July 6, 2017
I loved this book right from the start -- the quick foreshadowing of the events to come pulled me right in and didn't let me go, as questions upon questions accumulated, straight through until the exciting, satisfying, though still incomplete, conclusion.
The characters are interesting and diverse, and I never knew who to trust and who not to trust. I speculated, guessed, reassessed, and second-guessed throughout.
So many questions are still left open.
I can't wait to read the next installment to find out what will happen next to Valor, Sasha, Feliks, Katia, Anatol, and friends.
I received a copy of this book from Bloomsbury USA Children's Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BUDDY READ:Paranormal/Fantasy > Prisoner of Ice and Snow by Ruth Lauren -- Starting on April 1st 2017
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
The characters are interesting and diverse, and I never knew who to trust and who not to trust. I speculated, guessed, reassessed, and second-guessed throughout.
So many questions are still left open.
I can't wait to read the next installment to find out what will happen next to Valor, Sasha, Feliks, Katia, Anatol, and friends.
I received a copy of this book from Bloomsbury USA Children's Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BUDDY READ:Paranormal/Fantasy > Prisoner of Ice and Snow by Ruth Lauren -- Starting on April 1st 2017
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
July 27, 2016
This book was a pure delight from start to finish. I loved it. I read the entire thing completely riveted and felt like I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
I loved the main character, her bravery and resoluteness, and her bond with her sister. I loved the humour. I loved the unique world that was vivid, elaborate, and both cold and beautiful. I loved loved loved that pretty much every position of authority and power throughout the book was held by a woman. So many complex female characters--good ones and evil.
Although the plot and world are completely different, PRISONER OF ICE AND SNOW reminded me a lot of ELLA ENCHANTED, which is one of my favourite books. Both books are quick, easy, riveting reads, full of adventure and humour, with intelligent and brave female main characters who risk everything to try to save someone they care about.
I definitely recommend this one.
I loved the main character, her bravery and resoluteness, and her bond with her sister. I loved the humour. I loved the unique world that was vivid, elaborate, and both cold and beautiful. I loved loved loved that pretty much every position of authority and power throughout the book was held by a woman. So many complex female characters--good ones and evil.
Although the plot and world are completely different, PRISONER OF ICE AND SNOW reminded me a lot of ELLA ENCHANTED, which is one of my favourite books. Both books are quick, easy, riveting reads, full of adventure and humour, with intelligent and brave female main characters who risk everything to try to save someone they care about.
I definitely recommend this one.
June 19, 2024
3.75/5
MG fantasy that has echoes of Brave and Frozen. More character-driven rather than plot but fun.
MG fantasy that has echoes of Brave and Frozen. More character-driven rather than plot but fun.
didn-t-finish
January 9, 2025My thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books for an eARC of this book to read and review.
This book is the victim of a book slump I am going through. Not the book’s fault, I just can’t drum up any excitement when I imagine/try picking up this book.
Don’t let my utter apathy for this book dissuade you from trying it, it just didn’t work for me.
No stars as it is not the book, it is completely me on this one.
This book is the victim of a book slump I am going through. Not the book’s fault, I just can’t drum up any excitement when I imagine/try picking up this book.
Don’t let my utter apathy for this book dissuade you from trying it, it just didn’t work for me.
No stars as it is not the book, it is completely me on this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2019
This book is like a mash up of Six of Crows and Prison Break! Such a strange mix of things that I would never of thought I would use to describe the same book. I feel like the atmosphere and way of writing was more intense than I first expected with this being advertised as a middle grade story and that was really great. I've seen a few others compare it to Disney's Frozen which I was a little put off by, but I went into it anyway to see for myself as I like to gather my own opinions. I am glad I didn't let it persuade me not to read this as I didn't get the link or feel like it was like frozen at all. It seemed much darker in tone and the only aspects that resembled Frozen in my eyes were the setting and the fact that the main character is trying to help her sister. So don't the fact that this book has been compared to frozen let it put you off. The book follows Valor and her attempt at the impossible quest of breaking her sister out of prison by getting arrested herself.
The humour and the main group of characters in particular really reminded me of Six of Crows. It's amazing that the author was able to bring all these things together to create a brilliant concept that is a perfect fantasy. The sister relationship we see was brilliant as well and I adored that it was sort of the focus of this book in a way.
Often things are wrapped in cotton wool when it comes to middle grade so the fact that some of the plot twists were so dark and twisty, really made this book stand apart from others I have read. I was a little apprehensive first going into this because I tend to stick to the YA, NA and Adult genres but the concept of this really intrigued me so I had to dive into it and give it a go. I am very glad that I did because it was very enjoyable and a very quick read for anyone looking for a fantasy/adventure story that is easy to get into and that has characters you will no doubt fall in love with. Other than the Six of Crows and Prison Break vibe I think that the plot was quite original and not very predictable which was very nice.
I feel like the ending and a few of the aspects introduced later in the book are definitely hinting at a sequel, which I do hope is the case as I would pick it up because I would love to see more from these characters and this world. The main problem I had was with the last few chapters of the book and the way some things were just thrown in at the end. It really seemed rushed compared to the progression and development we see throughout the beginning and middle sections. Overall I have decided to give this book 4/5 stars as I very much enjoyed it and would recommend it.
Thank you to Ruth Lauren, Bloomsbury Children's Books and Net Galley for sending me a digital copy in exchange of an honest review.
The humour and the main group of characters in particular really reminded me of Six of Crows. It's amazing that the author was able to bring all these things together to create a brilliant concept that is a perfect fantasy. The sister relationship we see was brilliant as well and I adored that it was sort of the focus of this book in a way.
Often things are wrapped in cotton wool when it comes to middle grade so the fact that some of the plot twists were so dark and twisty, really made this book stand apart from others I have read. I was a little apprehensive first going into this because I tend to stick to the YA, NA and Adult genres but the concept of this really intrigued me so I had to dive into it and give it a go. I am very glad that I did because it was very enjoyable and a very quick read for anyone looking for a fantasy/adventure story that is easy to get into and that has characters you will no doubt fall in love with. Other than the Six of Crows and Prison Break vibe I think that the plot was quite original and not very predictable which was very nice.
I feel like the ending and a few of the aspects introduced later in the book are definitely hinting at a sequel, which I do hope is the case as I would pick it up because I would love to see more from these characters and this world. The main problem I had was with the last few chapters of the book and the way some things were just thrown in at the end. It really seemed rushed compared to the progression and development we see throughout the beginning and middle sections. Overall I have decided to give this book 4/5 stars as I very much enjoyed it and would recommend it.
Thank you to Ruth Lauren, Bloomsbury Children's Books and Net Galley for sending me a digital copy in exchange of an honest review.
September 15, 2017
Review originally posted on The Bibliophile Chronicles
This is a beautifully written story about the friendship between two sisters. It’s an engaging, enjoyable story, and one I think a lot of people will really love. The plot is full of twists and turns and has that perfect blend of action and plot that fantasy fans will just love.
The main character Valor is a brave, determined young lady, and she’ll do anything to help her sister – even commit a crime. I admired her strength and courage, she’s a wonderful leading lady and I think she would be a fantastic role model for younger children reading A Prisoner of Ice and Snow. There are a few smaller characters that I would like to get to know as well as Valor, but perhaps that will come along later in the series.
The prison that Valor and her sister end up in is certainly a horrible one, and they depictions of the different settings – most notably the prison – is certainly vivid and well laid out. At only two hundred and eighty eight pages the book is quite a quick read, but there is plenty to keep you guessing and wanting more. If you’re looking for a fun enjoyable MG fantasy, Prisoner of Ice and Snow is definitely a book to pick up. I for one am particularly looking forward to seeing what’s next in store for the series!
This is a beautifully written story about the friendship between two sisters. It’s an engaging, enjoyable story, and one I think a lot of people will really love. The plot is full of twists and turns and has that perfect blend of action and plot that fantasy fans will just love.
The main character Valor is a brave, determined young lady, and she’ll do anything to help her sister – even commit a crime. I admired her strength and courage, she’s a wonderful leading lady and I think she would be a fantastic role model for younger children reading A Prisoner of Ice and Snow. There are a few smaller characters that I would like to get to know as well as Valor, but perhaps that will come along later in the series.
The prison that Valor and her sister end up in is certainly a horrible one, and they depictions of the different settings – most notably the prison – is certainly vivid and well laid out. At only two hundred and eighty eight pages the book is quite a quick read, but there is plenty to keep you guessing and wanting more. If you’re looking for a fun enjoyable MG fantasy, Prisoner of Ice and Snow is definitely a book to pick up. I for one am particularly looking forward to seeing what’s next in store for the series!
June 2, 2017
This is a fun, quick MG fantasy read. Valor gets herself arrested and sent to her kingdom's prison for children in order to rescue her twin sister who was arrested for theft of an important object needed by the royal family to complete a peace treaty. In the prison Valor has to learn who to trust and how to survive to complete her plan. This is a plot centric story and moves very fast. As a result, the characterization isn't terribly in depth or surprising, but there is a strong group of young teens working together and forming bonds. I think this works really well as a book to give MG readers who are flirting with fantasy and want to try it out. It is not too long. I was under the impression that this was a stand alone and was really excited to have a MG stand alone fantasy on the shorter side. But alas, the ending clearly sets up a sequel so that isn't the case. Still. It's a good addition to any upper elementary/middle school library.
July 19, 2016
I loved this gorgeously-written, plucky, warm-hearted and fabulously satisfying book.
When 13-year-old Valor's sweet twin sister is convicted of an incomprehensible crime - the theft of a diplomatically-important music box - Valor contrives to be imprisoned alongside her in a dreaded snowy fortress. Her plan: to break them both out, and to prove her sister's innocence, if she can. Only brutal guards, scheming royalty and a frozen forest full of wolves stand in her way!
PRISONER OF ICE AND SNOW is classified as mid-grade, presumably because of its protagonist's age, and it avoids the gore and romance of much full YA. But it's as thrilling as any classic YA, and the story resolves with that should-have-seen-it-all-coming satisfaction of a beautifully-crafted plot. PRISONER OF ICE AND SNOW should burst out of the mid-grade bracket to find a wide readership.
When 13-year-old Valor's sweet twin sister is convicted of an incomprehensible crime - the theft of a diplomatically-important music box - Valor contrives to be imprisoned alongside her in a dreaded snowy fortress. Her plan: to break them both out, and to prove her sister's innocence, if she can. Only brutal guards, scheming royalty and a frozen forest full of wolves stand in her way!
PRISONER OF ICE AND SNOW is classified as mid-grade, presumably because of its protagonist's age, and it avoids the gore and romance of much full YA. But it's as thrilling as any classic YA, and the story resolves with that should-have-seen-it-all-coming satisfaction of a beautifully-crafted plot. PRISONER OF ICE AND SNOW should burst out of the mid-grade bracket to find a wide readership.
February 23, 2020
Look I know I know, it's a book and you have to suspend your disbelief, but I'm just saying that if you have twins and you name them Valor and Sasha you are REALLY banking on which one is going to be the main character.
Anyway, this wasn't a bad book but there wasn't really anything outstanding in it either. I would almost classify it as more young adult than middle grade but I think that is probably because I can see the annoying romance between Valor and the prince looming on the horizon and that is something I associate more with YA than MG. Still, I'm glad that she remained mostly focused on her sister for this book because it would have been really annoying otherwise.
Overall it's a fairly cute but very simplistic prison break story that I think I probably would have enjoyed more if I was in the 'correct' age range to read it. I won't be reading the second one because I didn't really get attached to any of the characters but I think this would be a good enough book for younger readers.
Anyway, this wasn't a bad book but there wasn't really anything outstanding in it either. I would almost classify it as more young adult than middle grade but I think that is probably because I can see the annoying romance between Valor and the prince looming on the horizon and that is something I associate more with YA than MG. Still, I'm glad that she remained mostly focused on her sister for this book because it would have been really annoying otherwise.
Overall it's a fairly cute but very simplistic prison break story that I think I probably would have enjoyed more if I was in the 'correct' age range to read it. I won't be reading the second one because I didn't really get attached to any of the characters but I think this would be a good enough book for younger readers.
Read
October 4, 2016When Valor’s twin sister Sasha is tried and convicted for stealing Queen Ana’s invaluable music box, she is sentenced to life imprisonment at Tyur’ma. In order to help Sasha escape, Valor attempts to kill Prince Awatol so she can join Sasha at Tyur’ma and engineer an escape for them both. Tyur’ma is heavily guarded, isolated, and no one has ever escaped alive. As Valor puts together a plan, a ragtag group of prisoners bands with her. But in a prison of deception and lies, is Valor wise to trust anyone at all? Author Ruth Lauren builds her story with skill and exquisite detail. The prose sings out and draws readers in with an intriguing plot and characters bursting with conviction. A terrific middle grade read.
–Karina Glaser
from The Best Books We Read In August 2016: http://bookriot.com/2016/08/31/riot-r...
–Karina Glaser
from The Best Books We Read In August 2016: http://bookriot.com/2016/08/31/riot-r...
June 12, 2018
This is a pretty good read about a young girl who must save her sister and help her escape from prison and save her home from a corrupt Princess who plans to bring the young girl's Kingdom in where she lives to ruin . Will she succeed? Read this for yourself and find out.
This was an awesome action-packed YA middle grade fantasy novel. If you like these types of novels, definitely check this out for yourself. It's available at your local library and wherever books are sold.
This was an awesome action-packed YA middle grade fantasy novel. If you like these types of novels, definitely check this out for yourself. It's available at your local library and wherever books are sold.
December 31, 2023
I really enjoyed the plot and characters, and my favorite one was Katia. My favorite part was when Valor saved Anatol from the wolves, and when they find out that Anastasia was the one who framed Sasha. The ending tied together really well, and I want to know what will happen with Anastasia in the next book.
Summary: Valor has a plan. A plan that will let her rescue her twin sister for her crime of stealing an important music box. When she does the unthinkable and attempts to murder Prince Anatol himself, she gets what she wants: to be sent to Tyur’ma, the giant prison that no one has escaped from before. When she meets new people who want in on her plan, she realizes that their help is better than working alone. Valor finds out that her sister, Sasha, is in the cellblock where the dangerous prisoners go. Valor finds a way to briefly talk to her sister at night, and discovers that her sister was innocent and didn’t steal the music box in the first place. The following day, Valor bargains with the Warden and saves Prince Anatol from wolves to try to convince the Warden to move her sister to the cellblock where regular prisoners are. But the Warden goes back on her word to Valor, and Sasha is stuck in isolation. Later, when pieces of her plan start to fall apart as she is caught at night, she has to improvise her plan and include Natalia in her plan, otherwise Natalia will ruin her escape plan and tell on Valor. When Natalia acts quickly when she and Valor’s friend and sister are alone with a prison guard, they are able to escape through a sewer drain. As they reach the very end, Valor and Sasha find out that one of the friends they trusted set them up for a trap, and they are captured by Prince Anatol. The Prince turns out to be on their side, and has been trying to figure out the real thief of the music box. Sasha and Valor suspect that it is Princess Anastasia, and their beliefs are confirmed when Queen Ana, Prince Anatol, Valor, and Sasha find Anastasia who accidentally confessed in a secret room with the music box. When Anastasia is thrown into the dungeon and the peace treaty is sent to the neighboring kingdom, Valor and Sasha know that they have restored honor to their family. But before all can return to normal, Anastasia is found missing from the dungeon . . .
Summary: Valor has a plan. A plan that will let her rescue her twin sister for her crime of stealing an important music box. When she does the unthinkable and attempts to murder Prince Anatol himself, she gets what she wants: to be sent to Tyur’ma, the giant prison that no one has escaped from before. When she meets new people who want in on her plan, she realizes that their help is better than working alone. Valor finds out that her sister, Sasha, is in the cellblock where the dangerous prisoners go. Valor finds a way to briefly talk to her sister at night, and discovers that her sister was innocent and didn’t steal the music box in the first place. The following day, Valor bargains with the Warden and saves Prince Anatol from wolves to try to convince the Warden to move her sister to the cellblock where regular prisoners are. But the Warden goes back on her word to Valor, and Sasha is stuck in isolation. Later, when pieces of her plan start to fall apart as she is caught at night, she has to improvise her plan and include Natalia in her plan, otherwise Natalia will ruin her escape plan and tell on Valor. When Natalia acts quickly when she and Valor’s friend and sister are alone with a prison guard, they are able to escape through a sewer drain. As they reach the very end, Valor and Sasha find out that one of the friends they trusted set them up for a trap, and they are captured by Prince Anatol. The Prince turns out to be on their side, and has been trying to figure out the real thief of the music box. Sasha and Valor suspect that it is Princess Anastasia, and their beliefs are confirmed when Queen Ana, Prince Anatol, Valor, and Sasha find Anastasia who accidentally confessed in a secret room with the music box. When Anastasia is thrown into the dungeon and the peace treaty is sent to the neighboring kingdom, Valor and Sasha know that they have restored honor to their family. But before all can return to normal, Anastasia is found missing from the dungeon . . .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2019
A middle grade Frozen meets Prison Break is not that far-fetched as one would believe! It was a quick read but I'm not that excited to continue with the series/finale/whatever. The world building felt random and that both parents had such a grand role in the royal household seemed a bit too convenient to be true. Nonetheless I really liked how sisterhood above all is such an important message in this book.
January 25, 2023
🏹☃️👑Prisoner of Ice and Snow👑☃️🏹
3.5 Stars
Set in the snowy atmosphere of Demidova, a cold queendom Queen Ana is forming a peace alliance with the neighbouring countries in hope of peace. When Valor's twin sister Sarah is thrown into a tightly run prison in Tyur'ma for stealing a music box, Valor is desperate to get her sister out. Her parents are banished and disgraced. Valor makes an attempt on Prince Anatol's life with the hope of ending up in Tyur'ma. She is quickly dragged into the harsh environment with hardened criminals and falsely accused innocent prisoners. Along the way, she meets Nicolai, Feliks, Katia, and other prisoners desperate to be freed. As Valor plans her escape, she crosses paths with Prince Anatol, who suspects that her intentions of attempting to kill him are not as they seem. As secret plans and feuds between siblings are revealed in the royal family, will Valor be able to escape unscathed when she is caught in a game of hidden intentions?
Prisoner of Ice and Snow captivated me from start to finish. The plot was unique, taking place in a prison, which I have never seen happen in middle grade books. The story was fast-paced and consistently sprinkled with new twists and turns to keep the story going. Valor was a brave protagonist, willing to do anything for her sister. This story focuses a lot on the friendship between sisters, and it reminded me a lot of (Frozen?) in some strange way.
While I enjoyed the aspect of sisterly love, I really wanted Sarah to be a more complex character. It is made clear how much Valor cares about Sarah, but they have so little interaction that it is hard to really feel that connection. I still deeply appreciated the focus on friendship and sibling relationships instead of a romantic one. Valor was a great protagonist to lead the story, and certain supporting characters in the cast like Prince Anatol, Princess Anastacia, and Feliks were extremely intriguing. While others, like Nicolai, Sarah, and Katia, needed more page time in the story to be more complex and captivating.
I enjoyed the "unexpected-villain" twist. The antagonist was written in such a way that their actions made sense while also adding emotional conflict to the situation.The setting of the prison and the anticipation of escaping were palpable. The plot stays on the surface of prisons rather than delving into the darker aspects.The atmosphere was still very atmospheric, and the world-building was done in a subtle way so that the information was not dumped on the reader.
In conclusion, this is an excellent start to a duology that is well worth reading in the winter.
☑️PLOT
☑️PLOT TWISTS
☑️CHARACTERS
3.5 Stars
Set in the snowy atmosphere of Demidova, a cold queendom Queen Ana is forming a peace alliance with the neighbouring countries in hope of peace. When Valor's twin sister Sarah is thrown into a tightly run prison in Tyur'ma for stealing a music box, Valor is desperate to get her sister out. Her parents are banished and disgraced. Valor makes an attempt on Prince Anatol's life with the hope of ending up in Tyur'ma. She is quickly dragged into the harsh environment with hardened criminals and falsely accused innocent prisoners. Along the way, she meets Nicolai, Feliks, Katia, and other prisoners desperate to be freed. As Valor plans her escape, she crosses paths with Prince Anatol, who suspects that her intentions of attempting to kill him are not as they seem. As secret plans and feuds between siblings are revealed in the royal family, will Valor be able to escape unscathed when she is caught in a game of hidden intentions?
Prisoner of Ice and Snow captivated me from start to finish. The plot was unique, taking place in a prison, which I have never seen happen in middle grade books. The story was fast-paced and consistently sprinkled with new twists and turns to keep the story going. Valor was a brave protagonist, willing to do anything for her sister. This story focuses a lot on the friendship between sisters, and it reminded me a lot of (Frozen?) in some strange way.
While I enjoyed the aspect of sisterly love, I really wanted Sarah to be a more complex character. It is made clear how much Valor cares about Sarah, but they have so little interaction that it is hard to really feel that connection. I still deeply appreciated the focus on friendship and sibling relationships instead of a romantic one. Valor was a great protagonist to lead the story, and certain supporting characters in the cast like Prince Anatol, Princess Anastacia, and Feliks were extremely intriguing. While others, like Nicolai, Sarah, and Katia, needed more page time in the story to be more complex and captivating.
I enjoyed the "unexpected-villain" twist. The antagonist was written in such a way that their actions made sense while also adding emotional conflict to the situation.The setting of the prison and the anticipation of escaping were palpable. The plot stays on the surface of prisons rather than delving into the darker aspects.The atmosphere was still very atmospheric, and the world-building was done in a subtle way so that the information was not dumped on the reader.
In conclusion, this is an excellent start to a duology that is well worth reading in the winter.
☑️PLOT
☑️PLOT TWISTS
☑️CHARACTERS
April 4, 2020
In the vivid and action-packed world of PRISONER OF ICE AND SNOW, the stakes are high and the plot boasts a sisterly bond that is both powerful and sweet.
This book was so fun! It was light-hearted enough that it filled me with warmth, but there was enough action to keep me rooted to the story. It's definitely a great mix for Middle Grade readers.
There was constant pressure on Valor because she's in prison, and needs to bust out. She's clever and quick, but not overly so. A great heroine. The relationship with her sister is the driving force of this novel, and it really works. You can clearly see the bond between her and Sasha. They're different in their strengths, but still work together well.
Also, I really didn't expect the twist in the middle, which is great, because I'm rarely caught by surprise. I did feel like the Anastasia thing came out of nowhere, but otherwise, it felt really organic.
My only problems with this novel is firstly, their escape was too easy. The escape route ends up being in a rather obvious place, and you're telling me no one in Tyur'ma's history thought to check there?
Secondly, the lack of character description. Natalia, who is an important character, isn't given much description beyond her height. I kind of just headcanoned most of the characters' appearances because there wasn't anything to go on in the text.
WILL I READ ON? Absolutely!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the eARC.
2: SEEKER OF THE CROWN
This book was so fun! It was light-hearted enough that it filled me with warmth, but there was enough action to keep me rooted to the story. It's definitely a great mix for Middle Grade readers.
There was constant pressure on Valor because she's in prison, and needs to bust out. She's clever and quick, but not overly so. A great heroine. The relationship with her sister is the driving force of this novel, and it really works. You can clearly see the bond between her and Sasha. They're different in their strengths, but still work together well.
Also, I really didn't expect the twist in the middle, which is great, because I'm rarely caught by surprise. I did feel like the Anastasia thing came out of nowhere, but otherwise, it felt really organic.
My only problems with this novel is firstly, their escape was too easy. The escape route ends up being in a rather obvious place, and you're telling me no one in Tyur'ma's history thought to check there?
Secondly, the lack of character description. Natalia, who is an important character, isn't given much description beyond her height. I kind of just headcanoned most of the characters' appearances because there wasn't anything to go on in the text.
WILL I READ ON? Absolutely!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the eARC.
2: SEEKER OF THE CROWN
March 16, 2018
This had such an interesting premise...but the execution? By the time I'd read 100 pages in, I still had only the sketchiest sense of the characters, blocked out in generics like "loves their family," "likes books," or "good at archery." I didn't feel remotely invested in the heroine's quest to save her sister...and she was so inept at it that only the greater ineptitude of her prison guards explained her incremental success.
The prison itself, like the world it exists in, seemed only half thought-out. If, for instance, the prisoners are forbidden from speaking to one another, wouldn't some kind of nonverbal communication have arisen in the prison culture? And if the people of this world have technology sufficient to roll the roof of the cellblock back, shouldn't they be able to design a safer means of transporting the prisoners (and their guards) to the prison than a horse-drawn cart through wolf country?
Given the prospect of slogging through the rest of the book and all its attendant headdesk moments, I flipped ahead to see if the characterization or the worldbuilding or the plot, itself, improved. No such luck...and it came as no surprise (alas) that the person I'd pegged on page 70-something as framing the heroine's sister turned out to be the villain. Sigh. Saved me reading the rest, I suppose.
The prison itself, like the world it exists in, seemed only half thought-out. If, for instance, the prisoners are forbidden from speaking to one another, wouldn't some kind of nonverbal communication have arisen in the prison culture? And if the people of this world have technology sufficient to roll the roof of the cellblock back, shouldn't they be able to design a safer means of transporting the prisoners (and their guards) to the prison than a horse-drawn cart through wolf country?
Given the prospect of slogging through the rest of the book and all its attendant headdesk moments, I flipped ahead to see if the characterization or the worldbuilding or the plot, itself, improved. No such luck...and it came as no surprise (alas) that the person I'd pegged on page 70-something as framing the heroine's sister turned out to be the villain. Sigh. Saved me reading the rest, I suppose.
October 25, 2016
This book, you guys. This book is so good. The world-building alone is incredible, but add in fast-paced action, a fiercely independent heroine that you can't help falling for on the first page, and enough intrigue to keep you up reading all night, and well . . . just trust me on this one. It's SO GOOD.
August 19, 2016
Love this book! Sisters, escape plans, survival, and adventure, all in this beautifully written debut fantasy.
April 6, 2025
dnfing this since it’s too middle grade for me. only read 18 pages so i’m not counting to reading challenge. casey might get a better kick out of this than me.
September 17, 2017
With a peacekeeping musical box stolen from the palace, Valor wants to prove her sister Sacha is innocent of the crime.
Prisoner of Ice and Snow is a fantastic book for children aged around 8-11. Firstly, it is well written so that it models good writing for children. I loved the settings and the way in which Ruth Lauren portrays the cold and bleakness of the prison so magnificently, to the extent that it almost made me shiver. However, it is the exciting plot, great characterisation and the meaningful themes that make Prisoner of Ice and Snow such a good read.
The story is fast paced and thrilling with plenty of peril facing Valor and the friends she makes along the way. Every time I thought there might be a resolution another really exciting event took place. Even the end of the book isn’t entirely resolved with the potential for further adventures and I’d love to read any follow up story.
The characters are wonderful, especially Valor. She is a fantastic role model for girls, even when she behaves somewhat recklessly because her motives for doing so are admirable. She’s brave, strong, loyal and an excellent shot with a bow and arrow. Prisoner of Ice and Snow has no simpering girl as its protagonist, but a skilled dynamic being in whom all children would find something to emulate.
I highly recommend Prisoner of Ice and Snow – to all readers, not just children!
Prisoner of Ice and Snow is a fantastic book for children aged around 8-11. Firstly, it is well written so that it models good writing for children. I loved the settings and the way in which Ruth Lauren portrays the cold and bleakness of the prison so magnificently, to the extent that it almost made me shiver. However, it is the exciting plot, great characterisation and the meaningful themes that make Prisoner of Ice and Snow such a good read.
The story is fast paced and thrilling with plenty of peril facing Valor and the friends she makes along the way. Every time I thought there might be a resolution another really exciting event took place. Even the end of the book isn’t entirely resolved with the potential for further adventures and I’d love to read any follow up story.
The characters are wonderful, especially Valor. She is a fantastic role model for girls, even when she behaves somewhat recklessly because her motives for doing so are admirable. She’s brave, strong, loyal and an excellent shot with a bow and arrow. Prisoner of Ice and Snow has no simpering girl as its protagonist, but a skilled dynamic being in whom all children would find something to emulate.
I highly recommend Prisoner of Ice and Snow – to all readers, not just children!
dnf
November 9, 2017Okay.
So I started this book yesterday and enjoyed Valor's voice and determination enough to keep reading. Plus I liked the writing style and the world seemed as interesting as the characters... but when Valor actually goes to prison (for a flimsy reason, if you ask me) I started to lose interest... And I worked out who the thief really was pretty early on, which was a bummer!
But the worst thing was when I found out this isn't a stand-alone! I was SO hoping it was. For once I thought I might actually read a fantasy stand-alone, but nope. :/
Oh well.
DNFd @ 70-ish pages, so no rating.
So I started this book yesterday and enjoyed Valor's voice and determination enough to keep reading. Plus I liked the writing style and the world seemed as interesting as the characters... but when Valor actually goes to prison (for a flimsy reason, if you ask me) I started to lose interest... And I worked out who the thief really was pretty early on, which was a bummer!
But the worst thing was when I found out this isn't a stand-alone! I was SO hoping it was. For once I thought I might actually read a fantasy stand-alone, but nope. :/
Oh well.
DNFd @ 70-ish pages, so no rating.
November 29, 2017
This was such a beautiful story. I loved it from the first page to the last. I can't wait until the next installment comes out, and I sure hope for many more books to follow.
July 29, 2018
Quite enjoyes this middle grade fantasy - tho it's middle grade in the same way Tamora Pierce is (which is to say the characters all acted mature and dealt with political and personal matters most teenagers would have issues dealing with capably).
Valor and Sasha's relationship drove this for me. The two of them clearly trusted each other and would do anything for the other. It put some of the other characters at a disadvantage I think.
Feliks and Katia, while obviously close friends of Valor's, did not rank the same. For Valor there was one goal - save her sister. Uncovering a deeper, treasonous plot, was just icing on the cake.
This could have been a decent stand alone if the fact the Princess Anastasia was so obvious and with so little believable motivation. I did trust that she meant neither Sasha nor Valor actual harm, but if they came to it while interfering with her plan...complications happen.
But if the book had ended there I would have been so unamused. As is there's a second book, dealing with the direct ending scene to this one that I'm eager to explore.
Valor and Sasha's relationship drove this for me. The two of them clearly trusted each other and would do anything for the other. It put some of the other characters at a disadvantage I think.
Feliks and Katia, while obviously close friends of Valor's, did not rank the same. For Valor there was one goal - save her sister. Uncovering a deeper, treasonous plot, was just icing on the cake.
This could have been a decent stand alone if the fact the Princess Anastasia was so obvious and with so little believable motivation. I did trust that she meant neither Sasha nor Valor actual harm, but if they came to it while interfering with her plan...complications happen.
But if the book had ended there I would have been so unamused. As is there's a second book, dealing with the direct ending scene to this one that I'm eager to explore.
March 31, 2018
„Sich zu wünschen, dass es nicht wahr ist, hat nichts damit zu tun, ob es wahr ist.“ – Sasha
Zum Cover: Es ist sehr treffsicher gezeichnet und wundervoll koloriert, sodass man sich die Charaktere äußerlich kaum vorstellen muss. Allerdings macht man sich ja trotzdem noch seine Vorstellungen. Wohingegen ich genau sagen kann, dass das Mädchen in der Mitte, das auch im Vordergrund und Fokus steht, Valor ist. Das beweist auch die Armbrust im unteren Bildrand, denn Valor ist ein Lehrling ihrer Mutter, die Jägerin ist, dementsprechend eine fantastische Schützin.
Die Berge und der Himmel, in den hoffnungsvollen, hellen Farben, sollen wohl für die versuchte Flucht stehen, die Valor mit ihrer Schwester ausheckt. Was es mit dem Mädchenkopf hinter Valor auf sich hat, kann ich allerdings selbst nicht so ganz beschreiben, nicht ohne etwas Vorzeitiges zu verraten jedenfalls.
Zum Inhalt: Valors Plan ist geglückt, als sie nach dem Anschlag auf Prinz Anatol von Demidova in das berüchtigte Gefängnis Tyur’ma gebracht wird. Hier ist ihre Zwillingsschwester Sasha eingesperrt, die des Diebstahls an der Spieluhr bezichtigt wird, die Prinzessin Anastasia von einem anderen Königreich erlangt hat und auf die sie bis dato aufpassen musste. Deshalb wurde auch ein großer Wirbel um die Vermisstenanzeige der Spieluhr gemacht und deshalb wurde Sasha auch, ohne dass man ihr richtig zugehört hat, abgeführt.
Valor riskiert deswegen ihre Freiheit und ihr Leben, um ihre Schwester zu befreien. Doch niemandem ist je die Flucht aus Tyur’ma gelungen, also was sollte sie von den anderen Insassen unterscheiden?
Meine Meinung: Zum einen hat mich die Geschichte um die zwei Schwestern wahnsinnig interessiert und zum anderen war ich wirklich gespannt, wie sie umgesetzt werden würde. Dass einmal die Familie im Vordergrund steht, hat man bei Kinderbüchern ja öfter, was ich wiederum sehr gut finde. Liebesgeschichten hat man in Jugendbüchern schon genug. Valor war mir auch auf Anhieb sympathisch, denn sie ist definitiv keine Alleskönnerin, denn was sie mit Jagdkünsten übertrumpft, macht ihre Schwester Sasha mit Worten wett. Beide Schwestern sind sehr authentisch beschrieben, und zum Ende hin wird der Spieß nochmal komplett umgedreht, sodass selbst Sasha ihre Chance findet, sich zu beweisen; das gefiel mir unglaublich gut.
Aber auch das Setting wurde gut erklärt, wenn auch nicht so ausführlich, was in einem Kinderbuch natürlich ist, aber die Welt hatte doch erstaunlich viel Politik in sich. Klar, ist das bei einem Königreich nicht irrelevant, aber mir hat die Mischung aus Action, Spannung und Abenteuer, und dieser Prise Politik doch sehr gut gefallen. Man konnte die Geschichte aufgrund ihrer Schnelllebigkeit und ihrer immer wieder spannenden Wendungen einfach nur genießen und durch die Seiten fliegen, was in einem Kinderbuch gar nicht schlecht ist, denn das macht ein gutes Buch nun einmal aus.
Auch die Nebencharaktere, die den beiden Schwestern zur Seite standen, waren recht großzügig ausgearbeitet, obwohl ich mir bei einigen doch mehr Informationen gewünscht hätte. Generell sind doch auch einige Fragen zum Ende hin offen geblieben, was dafür sprechen könnte, dass da eventuell noch weitaus mehr kommen könnte. Also ist diese Geschichte dem Anschein nach noch nicht zu ende. Ob ich das gut oder schlecht finde, sei so dahingestellt, aber gut unterhalten, konnte mich die Geschichte um Valor und ihrer Schwester allemal. Sie ist zwar schon eher für jüngere geschrieben, aber durch die Fantasiewelt, denke ich, werden Groß und Klein gleichermaßen daran Freude haben.
Fazit: Da ich dieses Buch im Rahmen einer Buchverlosung gewonnen habe, bedanke ich mich dafür noch einmal herzlich. Es hat mir wirklich sehr viel Freude gemacht, es zu lesen. Gleichzeitig war es auch eine Bereicherung, denn die Spannung und die Wendungen in diesem Kinderbuch sind besser als in manch´ einem Jugendbuch, auch wenn sie schon eher klischeehaft sind und einige Logikfehler dadurch passieren. Auch der Schreibstil, oder in diesem Fall die Übersetzung, wies einige Lücken in Form von Rechtschreib- und Grammatikfehlern auf, die einem so im Lesefluss aber auch nicht stören sollten, zumindest erging es mir so. Aufgefallen sind sie mir trotzdem und deshalb hier nur eben die kurze Erwähnung.
Ansonsten ist dieses Lesevergnügen von „Valor – Die Verschwörung im Königreich“ von Ruth Lauren mir 4 Sterne wert, was für ein Erstlingswerk ja schon mehr als gut ist.
Zum Cover: Es ist sehr treffsicher gezeichnet und wundervoll koloriert, sodass man sich die Charaktere äußerlich kaum vorstellen muss. Allerdings macht man sich ja trotzdem noch seine Vorstellungen. Wohingegen ich genau sagen kann, dass das Mädchen in der Mitte, das auch im Vordergrund und Fokus steht, Valor ist. Das beweist auch die Armbrust im unteren Bildrand, denn Valor ist ein Lehrling ihrer Mutter, die Jägerin ist, dementsprechend eine fantastische Schützin.
Die Berge und der Himmel, in den hoffnungsvollen, hellen Farben, sollen wohl für die versuchte Flucht stehen, die Valor mit ihrer Schwester ausheckt. Was es mit dem Mädchenkopf hinter Valor auf sich hat, kann ich allerdings selbst nicht so ganz beschreiben, nicht ohne etwas Vorzeitiges zu verraten jedenfalls.
Zum Inhalt: Valors Plan ist geglückt, als sie nach dem Anschlag auf Prinz Anatol von Demidova in das berüchtigte Gefängnis Tyur’ma gebracht wird. Hier ist ihre Zwillingsschwester Sasha eingesperrt, die des Diebstahls an der Spieluhr bezichtigt wird, die Prinzessin Anastasia von einem anderen Königreich erlangt hat und auf die sie bis dato aufpassen musste. Deshalb wurde auch ein großer Wirbel um die Vermisstenanzeige der Spieluhr gemacht und deshalb wurde Sasha auch, ohne dass man ihr richtig zugehört hat, abgeführt.
Valor riskiert deswegen ihre Freiheit und ihr Leben, um ihre Schwester zu befreien. Doch niemandem ist je die Flucht aus Tyur’ma gelungen, also was sollte sie von den anderen Insassen unterscheiden?
Meine Meinung: Zum einen hat mich die Geschichte um die zwei Schwestern wahnsinnig interessiert und zum anderen war ich wirklich gespannt, wie sie umgesetzt werden würde. Dass einmal die Familie im Vordergrund steht, hat man bei Kinderbüchern ja öfter, was ich wiederum sehr gut finde. Liebesgeschichten hat man in Jugendbüchern schon genug. Valor war mir auch auf Anhieb sympathisch, denn sie ist definitiv keine Alleskönnerin, denn was sie mit Jagdkünsten übertrumpft, macht ihre Schwester Sasha mit Worten wett. Beide Schwestern sind sehr authentisch beschrieben, und zum Ende hin wird der Spieß nochmal komplett umgedreht, sodass selbst Sasha ihre Chance findet, sich zu beweisen; das gefiel mir unglaublich gut.
Aber auch das Setting wurde gut erklärt, wenn auch nicht so ausführlich, was in einem Kinderbuch natürlich ist, aber die Welt hatte doch erstaunlich viel Politik in sich. Klar, ist das bei einem Königreich nicht irrelevant, aber mir hat die Mischung aus Action, Spannung und Abenteuer, und dieser Prise Politik doch sehr gut gefallen. Man konnte die Geschichte aufgrund ihrer Schnelllebigkeit und ihrer immer wieder spannenden Wendungen einfach nur genießen und durch die Seiten fliegen, was in einem Kinderbuch gar nicht schlecht ist, denn das macht ein gutes Buch nun einmal aus.
Auch die Nebencharaktere, die den beiden Schwestern zur Seite standen, waren recht großzügig ausgearbeitet, obwohl ich mir bei einigen doch mehr Informationen gewünscht hätte. Generell sind doch auch einige Fragen zum Ende hin offen geblieben, was dafür sprechen könnte, dass da eventuell noch weitaus mehr kommen könnte. Also ist diese Geschichte dem Anschein nach noch nicht zu ende. Ob ich das gut oder schlecht finde, sei so dahingestellt, aber gut unterhalten, konnte mich die Geschichte um Valor und ihrer Schwester allemal. Sie ist zwar schon eher für jüngere geschrieben, aber durch die Fantasiewelt, denke ich, werden Groß und Klein gleichermaßen daran Freude haben.
Fazit: Da ich dieses Buch im Rahmen einer Buchverlosung gewonnen habe, bedanke ich mich dafür noch einmal herzlich. Es hat mir wirklich sehr viel Freude gemacht, es zu lesen. Gleichzeitig war es auch eine Bereicherung, denn die Spannung und die Wendungen in diesem Kinderbuch sind besser als in manch´ einem Jugendbuch, auch wenn sie schon eher klischeehaft sind und einige Logikfehler dadurch passieren. Auch der Schreibstil, oder in diesem Fall die Übersetzung, wies einige Lücken in Form von Rechtschreib- und Grammatikfehlern auf, die einem so im Lesefluss aber auch nicht stören sollten, zumindest erging es mir so. Aufgefallen sind sie mir trotzdem und deshalb hier nur eben die kurze Erwähnung.
Ansonsten ist dieses Lesevergnügen von „Valor – Die Verschwörung im Königreich“ von Ruth Lauren mir 4 Sterne wert, was für ein Erstlingswerk ja schon mehr als gut ist.
March 17, 2017
This one was so much fun. A really well-done middle-grade book full of adventure and mystery and interesting characters that kept me wanting to read more. I really liked Valor and her sister Sasha and their relationship. I loved the mystery that I wasn't expecting and the friends they make along the way. There are a few plot holes that adults reading will probably notice but the whole thing moves so quickly and enjoyably, they almost don't matter at all. And probably won't matter at all to the younger crowd. I can't wait to see kids reading this one!
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