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Frostblood Saga #1
Frostblood
Seventeen-year-old Ruby is a Fireblood who has concealed her powers of heat and flame from the cruel Frostblood ruling class her entire life. But when her mother is killed trying to protect her, and rebel Frostbloods demand her help to overthrow their bloodthirsty king, she agrees to come out of hiding, desperate to have her revenge.
Despite her unpredictable abilities, Ruby trains with the rebels and the infuriating - yet irresistible - Arcus, who seems to think of her as nothing more than a weapon. But before they can take action, Ruby is captured and forced to compete in the king’s tournaments that pit Fireblood prisoners against Frostblood champions. Now she has only one chance to destroy the maniacal ruler who has taken everything from her - and from the icy young man she has come to love.
Despite her unpredictable abilities, Ruby trains with the rebels and the infuriating - yet irresistible - Arcus, who seems to think of her as nothing more than a weapon. But before they can take action, Ruby is captured and forced to compete in the king’s tournaments that pit Fireblood prisoners against Frostblood champions. Now she has only one chance to destroy the maniacal ruler who has taken everything from her - and from the icy young man she has come to love.
376 pages, Hardcover
First published January 10, 2017
About the author
Elly Blake
13 books1,995 followersNYT bestselling author of the Frostblood Saga. Elly Blake loves fairy tales, old houses, and owls. After earning a BA in English literature, she held a series of seemingly random jobs, including project manager, customs clerk, graphic designer, reporter for a local business magazine, and library assistant. She lives in Southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and a Siberian Husky mix who definitely shows Frostblood tendencies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,914 reviews
February 7, 2017
Have you read any mainstream YA fantasy book over the past few years? If so, it is likely you have already experienced this book with different character names.
Frostblood is just so... unremarkable. Everything about it is familiar and predictable, leading to a read that offered up no excitement, no need to keep turning the pages. It often feels as if YA fantasy publishers deliberately go looking for new authors to retell the same old recycled plots. Stick an attractive cover on the front and lets see if we can fool people into buying the same book over and over again.
This book follows the heroine - Ruby - who is a Fireblood in a world where Frostbloods are the ruling class. Once again, this world is split evenly into two societal groups - an overdone technique that I find particularly lazy. It's the same with the Reds and Silvers in Red Queen, the Reds and Golds in Red Rising, and the Shotet and Thuvhe from Carve the Mark, as well as others. If only the world were that simple! If only there were just two groups of people with differences. There is just no depth or complexity to a "this vs. this" world.
Also, Ruby was uninteresting and bland. I feel like I have nothing to remember her by and it was really difficult to become invested in her story and troubles. The book opens with her mother being murdered and Ruby being captured by Frostblood soldiers; incidentally, this opening is almost identical to Carve the Mark, where Akos' father is murdered by the Shotet before Akos, himself, is captured. There's nothing here I haven't read before.
Then, of course, the plot takes a completely mindblowing turn when our standard heroine with elemental powers (easy way of adding some magic without having to think too much about a magic system) teams up with a hot guy (Arcus) to get revenge on the royals who wronged her. Is it just me or are you getting déjà vu as well?
And I don't know why so many authors think there is anything interesting about pages and pages of training. It's mind-numbing.
But wait! Just when you thought this was all looking familiar, Arcus reveals his... dum, dum, dum, DARK PAST! Yes, that's right. Arcus is a very boring, very typical love interest, with very unoriginal secrets.
A lot of YA fantasy is tropey and contains all the same elements, that's true, so maybe you could say I'm being harsh. But this book's problem is not just a series of components that make it derivative - it also has a very lackluster style. The writing did nothing to draw me in; dramatic events came and went without being engaging. There can be slow parts in any book, but even the most dynamic chapters didn’t hold any fire for me.
To add a tiny bit of credit where it's due: by far the most interesting aspect of this book was the exploration of how one can be blamed for the actions of others they are grouped with. For example, the actions of a few radicals, whether they be Firebloods, POC, Muslims or feminists, can be used to make sweeping (and false) generalizations about all the others in said group. This is interesting and rather appropriate right now. Too bad it got lost under everything else.
To summarize: Frostblood and my review feel so very familiar. I long for something new and different in YA fantasy.
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Frostblood is just so... unremarkable. Everything about it is familiar and predictable, leading to a read that offered up no excitement, no need to keep turning the pages. It often feels as if YA fantasy publishers deliberately go looking for new authors to retell the same old recycled plots. Stick an attractive cover on the front and lets see if we can fool people into buying the same book over and over again.
This book follows the heroine - Ruby - who is a Fireblood in a world where Frostbloods are the ruling class. Once again, this world is split evenly into two societal groups - an overdone technique that I find particularly lazy. It's the same with the Reds and Silvers in Red Queen, the Reds and Golds in Red Rising, and the Shotet and Thuvhe from Carve the Mark, as well as others. If only the world were that simple! If only there were just two groups of people with differences. There is just no depth or complexity to a "this vs. this" world.
Also, Ruby was uninteresting and bland. I feel like I have nothing to remember her by and it was really difficult to become invested in her story and troubles. The book opens with her mother being murdered and Ruby being captured by Frostblood soldiers; incidentally, this opening is almost identical to Carve the Mark, where Akos' father is murdered by the Shotet before Akos, himself, is captured. There's nothing here I haven't read before.
Then, of course, the plot takes a completely mindblowing turn when our standard heroine with elemental powers (easy way of adding some magic without having to think too much about a magic system) teams up with a hot guy (Arcus) to get revenge on the royals who wronged her. Is it just me or are you getting déjà vu as well?
And I don't know why so many authors think there is anything interesting about pages and pages of training. It's mind-numbing.
But wait! Just when you thought this was all looking familiar, Arcus reveals his... dum, dum, dum, DARK PAST! Yes, that's right. Arcus is a very boring, very typical love interest, with very unoriginal secrets.
A lot of YA fantasy is tropey and contains all the same elements, that's true, so maybe you could say I'm being harsh. But this book's problem is not just a series of components that make it derivative - it also has a very lackluster style. The writing did nothing to draw me in; dramatic events came and went without being engaging. There can be slow parts in any book, but even the most dynamic chapters didn’t hold any fire for me.
To add a tiny bit of credit where it's due: by far the most interesting aspect of this book was the exploration of how one can be blamed for the actions of others they are grouped with. For example, the actions of a few radicals, whether they be Firebloods, POC, Muslims or feminists, can be used to make sweeping (and false) generalizations about all the others in said group. This is interesting and rather appropriate right now. Too bad it got lost under everything else.
To summarize: Frostblood and my review feel so very familiar. I long for something new and different in YA fantasy.
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May 30, 2023
This is an awesome debut novel. It is excellent by any novels standards. I was recommended this as I really liked the Throne of Glass and the story the story telling is right on par with this great series. If you grew up with fairytales and love superheroes, you would love this story.
Ruby is a Fireblood (meaning she can generate frie) in a land ruled by Frostbloods (the ability to generate ice), this is more that enough to get her killed. Thought the basics of her power by her grandmother, she is hidden away by her mother. However, when her secret is discovered and costs her everything she holds dear, she is burning for one thing revenge. When an opportunity is presented to her, she is dubious about trusting her natural enemies as allies.
This story has it all, well written, well paced, action, romance, and even great character development. I like the fact that the characters' natural personalities match their powers. Ruby is fire so hot tempered, where as Frostbloods are portrayed is emotionally cold as they are powerful. However, the characters are not one dimensional. they all develop through the story. Ruby is constantly second-guessing herself, but when she makes a decision, she is determined to see it through no matter the cost to herself. I really enjoyed this book, and I can't wait for the next one.
Ruby is a Fireblood (meaning she can generate frie) in a land ruled by Frostbloods (the ability to generate ice), this is more that enough to get her killed. Thought the basics of her power by her grandmother, she is hidden away by her mother. However, when her secret is discovered and costs her everything she holds dear, she is burning for one thing revenge. When an opportunity is presented to her, she is dubious about trusting her natural enemies as allies.
This story has it all, well written, well paced, action, romance, and even great character development. I like the fact that the characters' natural personalities match their powers. Ruby is fire so hot tempered, where as Frostbloods are portrayed is emotionally cold as they are powerful. However, the characters are not one dimensional. they all develop through the story. Ruby is constantly second-guessing herself, but when she makes a decision, she is determined to see it through no matter the cost to herself. I really enjoyed this book, and I can't wait for the next one.
July 18, 2023
Still rereading and I hauling or switching to kindle -2023/3 Stars this time around
**********Old Review 4 Stars ⬇️
Fire Meets Frost!
Ruby is a fireblood that her mother has tried to keep hidden because firebloods are being killed out by the frostbloods, at least the evil ones. She's very powerful but can't control her power as no one has trained her . . . until
Arcus is a frostblood and he's also very powerful. He is also something else that I can't tell you about, you have to read the book. He saves Ruby from a prison she was taken to when they evil ones found her. They killed her mother, she wants King Rasmus to die!
Arcus takes Ruby back to the Abbey where she meets some wonderful people. One being Brother Thistle. They want to train her to use her fire and control it. Brother Thistle and Arcus have their work cut out for them but it mostly works out in the end. They want to help her be able to take down King Rasmus.
Until Ruby is captured by the King's minions and brought back to his castle to fight in his pits. She is set up against people, animals, frostblood's. She hopes to be able to kill the king but will her plan every come into play? Maybe, maybe not, there is something else about the king . . . he's not quite right. Will Ruby with the help of Arcus be able to defeat the darkness. You shall see, when you read it!
I enjoyed the book. I love Arcus, he's my frost king =) There were a few things in the book that made me want to smack Ruby but it was still good. Sometimes it seemed like she could have used her powers before getting caught. Either way, it worked out good enough for me.
I will leave you with a funny little EXCERPT:
"How did you find me?"
He unclenched his jaw to answer. " When Wheatgerm returned to the stables, I followed her tracks until they disappeared. And then I heard someone bellowing nonsense, and I knew it must be you."
"Who the blazes is Wheatgerm?"
"The horse you stole from the abbey," he said as if talking to a simpleton.
"You mean Butter. And I didn't steal her. I borrowed her. I take it she's safe?"
"Cold and tired, but safe in the stables eating like she's half starved. Which she probably is, thanks to you. And her name isn't Butter."
"It is now."
"She's not yours to name."
"She's mine in spirit now that we've had an adventure together. And her name suits her. She's soft and yellow, like butter."
He made a disgusted sound. "If we all had names to suit us, you'd be called Thorn in My Backside. Or Plague of the Gods."
I prickled at his scathing tone. "And you'd be Miserable Blockhead."
"Is that the best you could do?"
"Give me time. I'm half frozen."
I just love Ruby and Arcus! ❤
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
**********Old Review 4 Stars ⬇️
Fire Meets Frost!
Ruby is a fireblood that her mother has tried to keep hidden because firebloods are being killed out by the frostbloods, at least the evil ones. She's very powerful but can't control her power as no one has trained her . . . until
Arcus is a frostblood and he's also very powerful. He is also something else that I can't tell you about, you have to read the book. He saves Ruby from a prison she was taken to when they evil ones found her. They killed her mother, she wants King Rasmus to die!
Arcus takes Ruby back to the Abbey where she meets some wonderful people. One being Brother Thistle. They want to train her to use her fire and control it. Brother Thistle and Arcus have their work cut out for them but it mostly works out in the end. They want to help her be able to take down King Rasmus.
Until Ruby is captured by the King's minions and brought back to his castle to fight in his pits. She is set up against people, animals, frostblood's. She hopes to be able to kill the king but will her plan every come into play? Maybe, maybe not, there is something else about the king . . . he's not quite right. Will Ruby with the help of Arcus be able to defeat the darkness. You shall see, when you read it!
I enjoyed the book. I love Arcus, he's my frost king =) There were a few things in the book that made me want to smack Ruby but it was still good. Sometimes it seemed like she could have used her powers before getting caught. Either way, it worked out good enough for me.
I will leave you with a funny little EXCERPT:
"How did you find me?"
He unclenched his jaw to answer. " When Wheatgerm returned to the stables, I followed her tracks until they disappeared. And then I heard someone bellowing nonsense, and I knew it must be you."
"Who the blazes is Wheatgerm?"
"The horse you stole from the abbey," he said as if talking to a simpleton.
"You mean Butter. And I didn't steal her. I borrowed her. I take it she's safe?"
"Cold and tired, but safe in the stables eating like she's half starved. Which she probably is, thanks to you. And her name isn't Butter."
"It is now."
"She's not yours to name."
"She's mine in spirit now that we've had an adventure together. And her name suits her. She's soft and yellow, like butter."
He made a disgusted sound. "If we all had names to suit us, you'd be called Thorn in My Backside. Or Plague of the Gods."
I prickled at his scathing tone. "And you'd be Miserable Blockhead."
"Is that the best you could do?"
"Give me time. I'm half frozen."
I just love Ruby and Arcus! ❤
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
September 6, 2017
*I've lowered my rating to a 4, more towards a 3.5 upon further thought*
4.5*
First off I'm super excited because this author lives in my town which does not happen often!
But I ended up enjoying this a lot more than I had thought I would! I think I found the cover off putting (mine is an ARC and has a different cover than that pictured)
I loved the world divided by binaries and watching those binaries blur. It was a really cool read!
P.S. A video review will be going up closer to the publication date!
*Received ARC from Indigo Books and Music, many thanks to them!!!*
4.5*
First off I'm super excited because this author lives in my town which does not happen often!
But I ended up enjoying this a lot more than I had thought I would! I think I found the cover off putting (mine is an ARC and has a different cover than that pictured)
I loved the world divided by binaries and watching those binaries blur. It was a really cool read!
P.S. A video review will be going up closer to the publication date!
*Received ARC from Indigo Books and Music, many thanks to them!!!*
September 12, 2017
UPDATE
READ THIS FOR THE SECOND TIME... LOVED IT.
I really am enjoying my re-reading journey through books I loved !!
I read this book in one sitting today, my god. it was good!
Elly Blake has taken a world divided by belief and power. She has created strong characters, with strong bonds. AND DONT GET ME STARTED ON THE DISPLAY OF THE POWERS IN THIS BOOK.
Really really enjoyed this novel and I look forward to reading the follow up...... next year..... omg next year, I might cry if i have to wait long
READ THIS FOR THE SECOND TIME... LOVED IT.
I really am enjoying my re-reading journey through books I loved !!
I read this book in one sitting today, my god. it was good!
Elly Blake has taken a world divided by belief and power. She has created strong characters, with strong bonds. AND DONT GET ME STARTED ON THE DISPLAY OF THE POWERS IN THIS BOOK.
Really really enjoyed this novel and I look forward to reading the follow up...... next year..... omg next year, I might cry if i have to wait long
March 11, 2017
A focused mind is a powerful tool
Frostblood is one of the books which I enjoyed the most. After Red Queen, I was wanting more on blood discrimination. And few days ago I found this piece of writing which I will never forget.
The most important thing I liked in this book is its way of writing. It is just beyond amazing. At least for me. I enjoyed reading how author expressed things. How she made me smile by some jokes in conversations, made me excited by the action scenes, made me sad by some scenes. In short this is one of the best writing styles I have ever read.
OVERVIEW
Ruby is a Fireblood, the kind which is not acceptable in the kingdom where the Frost King, Rasmus, rules. Her mother is killed in an attack by the Soldiers of Frost King. In the attack, Ruby is imprisoned by them. But she gets free by the rebels who wants to remove Rasmus from power. They are planning to use Ruby for their purpose. But Ruby has her purpose also. Revenge. Revenge of her mother's death.
The he very big surprise is rebels are also the Frostbloods. They are doing this for a reason.
Rasmus, Frost King, hates Firebloods for a reason. That's why he kills them.
THINGS I LIKED
=>Discrimination, I liked how the world is divided in Firebloods and Frostbloods.
=>Arcus, this character is just amazing. My favourite male character after Paxton (from Great Hunt). He was just a mystery till the end of the book. The book revealed his mystery in a very well manner. I liked the way his character was written. Even though I found him rude in the beginning but eventually I came to know why he was rude.
=>Arena Scenes, those were very well written. I was literally feeling that I was watching these scenes. I was Feeling the atmosphere of arena.
Those who can’t control themselves will find themselves under the control of others
RANDOM THOUGHTS
This book is divided into two parts. Some people may get bored by the first part. But I didn't. Even though that was little boring. This is the beauty of this book. Even in little boring scenes, author keeps giving us little bits which keep us curious. Regardless, I enjoyed both parts equally.
After reading this book, I have found my new favourite author. Elly Blake. I will be looking forward to more books from her.
Weapons and hot tempers make a dangerous pair
March 9, 2017
July 30, 2019
DNF @ 37%
I don't usually rate books I DNF unless I make it to 50%, but this book has me bitter...even though it's pretty much my fault. Still. I got drawn into the hype and pretty cover and so, I bought not only this book in hardcover...but also books two and three...Because IDIOT. Regardless, you can imagine how much I wanted to love and persevere through this thing and its successors.
But alas, as much as I loathe wasting money, I just can't force myself to pick this book up anymore.
It basically reads like every other YA fantasy romance you've ever read before, except SHITTY. I have read (and rated highly) many a cliched YA in my time, but this one just isn't cutting the mustard. The writing is blah, the characters are wooden and one-dimensional, and the magic system is non-existent.
The only silver lining here is that I get to pare down my physical tbr by three books, albeit not via the avenue I would prefer. Thankfully though, I have since trained myself to stop buying entire series at once without first reading and loving book one. I still have a few unread series on my shelves which were purchased before said training took place, but hopefully I have better luck with those.
Onward.
I don't usually rate books I DNF unless I make it to 50%, but this book has me bitter...even though it's pretty much my fault. Still. I got drawn into the hype and pretty cover and so, I bought not only this book in hardcover...but also books two and three...Because IDIOT. Regardless, you can imagine how much I wanted to love and persevere through this thing and its successors.
But alas, as much as I loathe wasting money, I just can't force myself to pick this book up anymore.
It basically reads like every other YA fantasy romance you've ever read before, except SHITTY. I have read (and rated highly) many a cliched YA in my time, but this one just isn't cutting the mustard. The writing is blah, the characters are wooden and one-dimensional, and the magic system is non-existent.
The only silver lining here is that I get to pare down my physical tbr by three books, albeit not via the avenue I would prefer. Thankfully though, I have since trained myself to stop buying entire series at once without first reading and loving book one. I still have a few unread series on my shelves which were purchased before said training took place, but hopefully I have better luck with those.
Onward.
March 17, 2018
Mal wieder ein richtig richtig gutes Jugendbuch, was auch mal ohne Klischees und Fokus auf eine Liebesgeschichte auskommt. Natürlich gab es trotzdem eine Lovestory, allerdings mochte ich die sogar echt gerne.
Es gab nur wenig was mich gestört hat. Ich hätte mich zum Beispiel furchtbar über eine Karte am Anfang oder Ende des Buches gefreut, da ich manchmal etwas verwirrt vom Worldbuilding war. Die Idee an sich und auch die Beschreibungen haben mir aber gut gefallen! Auch die Art der Magie hat mir gefallen, hat mich alles in allem sehr an Sarah J. Maas (Celeana und Rowan) erinnert. Ruby und Arcus fand ich super, ihre Temperamente haben zu ihren jeweiligen Gaben gepasst und die Dynamik zwischen den beiden war genial. Die Geschichte war auf keiner Seite langweilig, was nicht nur am interessanten Plot lag sondern auch am tollen Schreibstil von Elly Blake. Aber grade deshalb hätte das Buch gern noch ein paar Seiten mehr haben können 👏🏻
Es gab nur wenig was mich gestört hat. Ich hätte mich zum Beispiel furchtbar über eine Karte am Anfang oder Ende des Buches gefreut, da ich manchmal etwas verwirrt vom Worldbuilding war. Die Idee an sich und auch die Beschreibungen haben mir aber gut gefallen! Auch die Art der Magie hat mir gefallen, hat mich alles in allem sehr an Sarah J. Maas (Celeana und Rowan) erinnert. Ruby und Arcus fand ich super, ihre Temperamente haben zu ihren jeweiligen Gaben gepasst und die Dynamik zwischen den beiden war genial. Die Geschichte war auf keiner Seite langweilig, was nicht nur am interessanten Plot lag sondern auch am tollen Schreibstil von Elly Blake. Aber grade deshalb hätte das Buch gern noch ein paar Seiten mehr haben können 👏🏻
February 9, 2017
This book was FREAKING AWESOME!!! A MUST OWN! A book that has all the elements for an amazing book! A book you would lose sleep over because you can't put it down! A book you find yourself gripping to find out what happens and the anticipation of the action in this book!
Alright, so this book is about Frostbloods and Firebloods. Frostbloods are people who can control ice and snow and are cold. Firebloods are hot and have control over fire in this book we do however have some 
people who have neither. The world building isn't anything new where the Frostbloods rule and are trying to exterminate the Firebloods. There is a lot of legends, myths, history when it comes to these people and I enjoyed exploring that and learning more about it throughout the story.
Because of this Ruby has suppressed her power of fire all her seventeen years of life. In secret and behind her mother's back she feels like she should somehow practice. Her Grandmother, before she died was trying to teach her how to control it but now her mother didn't want it to manifest at all otherwise she should be caught and put to death. I REALLY liked Ruby, she has a temper and a lack of controlling it, she lets her emotions run wild, she is feisty, fierce, strong, yet good and kind. I REALLY enjoyed everything about her character even her raging sack of hormones.
Then we have Arcus, I loved everything about him. So swoon-worthy in every way. He is 
NOT your typical swoon worthy male character and I LOVE THAT! He constantly wears a hood, he is SUPER strong and good at his control over his powers of frost and tries to help Ruby with her powers and temper even though he has one as well...well when it comes to her that is.
I loved their relationship, they were enemies with a common purpose. I was a bit disappointed when I felt their relationship changed and developed almost too quickly but that is nothing against the book just something I prefer.
Overall: I absolutely loved everything about this book, it's fast paced, action packed, doesn't have a romance that overwhelms the story, it keeps you on your toes and you won't be able to put this down once you start it! AH! I loved it!
Sexual Content: mild
Violence: moderate
Language: none
Drugs/Alcohol: none
*A HUGE thank you to Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for this ARC which I got in exchange for an honest review*
February 7, 2017
**As promised, here is the Frostblood giveaway (and more!) on our blog-sponsored by Little, Brown!! Click here to enter! **
Frostblood is one of those books that you see and you know you just have to read it. If not from the cover alone (umm, hello pretty cover), then by the promising synopsis. I first saw this book back in early winter-it popped up out of nowhere and stole my heart before I even read it. It was a case of love at first sight, and I knew nothing would do until I had this book in my hands.
And, finally, riiiiight before it was about to come out, I got the opportunity from Little, Brown to receive a (again, GORGEOUS) finished copy to enjoy. And enjoy I did. There wasn’t one moment where I wasn’t fully engrossed in this story. From page one on, I was hooked. I honestly am just the easiest person to please with YA fantasy-give me a young tortured male with a heart made of ice (pretty much literally and figuratively), a hate-hate relationship…and I. Am. SOLD.
This book was clearly no exception. The first chapter broke my heart immediately-I mean whyyyyy-making it clear from the start that the author didn’t mind getting her hands dirty. I like that. I like that a LOT, and, even more than that, I respect it immensely.
I’m not above setting a heavy precedent-it gives a book fire, passion, a reason to fight-and I’ve always loved that. Ruby is a Fireblood, a hunted people that can produce, you guessed it, fire, and who are immensely hot to the touch. Hunted by Frostbloods, the rare Firebloods who have not been found (and executed or sent to compete for sure death) yet are forced to hide, to keep themselves scarce.
Ruby is in hiding with her mother in a village, not able to practice her craft or live freely as she’d hope. One thing leads to another, and Ruby is saved from a certain death after being captured by the Frostblood king’s guard...by none other than Frostblood rebels-the infuriating Arcus being one of them.
I must say, I ADORED Arcus. He was moody, wounded, but loyal to all those around him and Ruby’s biggest ally. Well…eventually…but he was always a driving force in helping her train, in helping her become the best she could be.
After seeing who Ruby is, how fiercely she wants to help, he starts to [secretly] fall for her, starts doing everything in his power to change what the rebel group wants from Ruby, to find literally any other way….because their plan leads to nothing but suicide.
I just loved how antagonistic these two were towards each other and how they slowly began to find solace in one another-it was sweet, slow-burning, and the way he wanted to protect her, even when he didn’t like her, melted my [not so] icy little heart. And the fact that the rebel plan included him not leaving her side? Come on. Just…come on, *sighs* I lubbs him. I really do.
So, you know, once again I feel like I’m out on a limb here, by myself, loving a book that’s absolutely wonderful all by myself. I don’t get it!!! What isn’t to like?? Swoony boy. Loyal boy. Fierce boy. Fierce girl. Mortal enemies. Enemies-to-lovers. Perilistic ending. Tons of [male] (male male male-NEED ANY MORE HINTS?) sacrifice. Tons of win. You people are crazy…but that’s okay. This book is wonderful-and I will proudly display this beauty on my shelf forever.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
**************
Ummm...Awkward. I guess I'm the black sheep again...whenever will I fit in! Lol oh wait...I DON'T CARE. *sings* Guiltyyyyyy :P
Starting this beauty!! Thanks to the publishers for sending me a copy in advance! :)
Frostblood is one of those books that you see and you know you just have to read it. If not from the cover alone (umm, hello pretty cover), then by the promising synopsis. I first saw this book back in early winter-it popped up out of nowhere and stole my heart before I even read it. It was a case of love at first sight, and I knew nothing would do until I had this book in my hands.
And, finally, riiiiight before it was about to come out, I got the opportunity from Little, Brown to receive a (again, GORGEOUS) finished copy to enjoy. And enjoy I did. There wasn’t one moment where I wasn’t fully engrossed in this story. From page one on, I was hooked. I honestly am just the easiest person to please with YA fantasy-give me a young tortured male with a heart made of ice (pretty much literally and figuratively), a hate-hate relationship…and I. Am. SOLD.
“She’s not yours to name.”
“She’s mine in spirit now that we’ve had an adventure together. And her name suits her. She’s soft and yellow, like butter.”
He made a disgusted sound. “If we all had names to suit us, you’d be called Thorn in My Backside. Or Plague of the Gods.”
I prickled at his scathing tone. “And you’d be Miserable Blockhead.”
“Is that the best you can do?”
“Give me time. I’m half frozen.”
This book was clearly no exception. The first chapter broke my heart immediately-I mean whyyyyy-making it clear from the start that the author didn’t mind getting her hands dirty. I like that. I like that a LOT, and, even more than that, I respect it immensely.
I’m not above setting a heavy precedent-it gives a book fire, passion, a reason to fight-and I’ve always loved that. Ruby is a Fireblood, a hunted people that can produce, you guessed it, fire, and who are immensely hot to the touch. Hunted by Frostbloods, the rare Firebloods who have not been found (and executed or sent to compete for sure death) yet are forced to hide, to keep themselves scarce.
“You speak as if I’m as heavy as an ox,” I said. “Last week I was a bundle of sticks.”
“You’re still too thin.”
“Perhaps if I gain some weight, you won’t call me a stick anymore.”
“You may hope to one day be a branch.”
Ruby is in hiding with her mother in a village, not able to practice her craft or live freely as she’d hope. One thing leads to another, and Ruby is saved from a certain death after being captured by the Frostblood king’s guard...by none other than Frostblood rebels-the infuriating Arcus being one of them.
I must say, I ADORED Arcus. He was moody, wounded, but loyal to all those around him and Ruby’s biggest ally. Well…eventually…but he was always a driving force in helping her train, in helping her become the best she could be.
“And my touch threatens that somehow?”
“In a way. I brought you here to prepare you for a huge task,” he said, dipping the cloth in the water and touching it to my cheek again. “An enormous weight rests on your shoulders.”
I sighed, irritated at the reminder of what made me truly important. I wanted to mean more to Arcus than a way to melt the throne.
"And now I wonder if I can let you go,” he added quietly.
After seeing who Ruby is, how fiercely she wants to help, he starts to [secretly] fall for her, starts doing everything in his power to change what the rebel group wants from Ruby, to find literally any other way….because their plan leads to nothing but suicide.
I just loved how antagonistic these two were towards each other and how they slowly began to find solace in one another-it was sweet, slow-burning, and the way he wanted to protect her, even when he didn’t like her, melted my [not so] icy little heart. And the fact that the rebel plan included him not leaving her side? Come on. Just…come on, *sighs* I lubbs him. I really do.
“Who else is there?” He asked. “What Fireblood will do this but you?”
“What if I destroy the throne? When it’s all over, are you just going to”-I waved a hand-“disappear into the air like mist?”
“From the time we leave the abbey until you’re safely back again, I’ll protect you with my life.”
So, you know, once again I feel like I’m out on a limb here, by myself, loving a book that’s absolutely wonderful all by myself. I don’t get it!!! What isn’t to like?? Swoony boy. Loyal boy. Fierce boy. Fierce girl. Mortal enemies. Enemies-to-lovers. Perilistic ending. Tons of [male] (male male male-NEED ANY MORE HINTS?) sacrifice. Tons of win. You people are crazy…but that’s okay. This book is wonderful-and I will proudly display this beauty on my shelf forever.
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Ummm...Awkward. I guess I'm the black sheep again...whenever will I fit in! Lol oh wait...I DON'T CARE. *sings* Guiltyyyyyy :P
Starting this beauty!! Thanks to the publishers for sending me a copy in advance! :)
July 7, 2019
Ich mochte es recht gerne! :) es ist für mich eine Mischung aus Avatar, die rote Königin und Throne of Glass :D sehr cool! Wobei ich keine Idee habe, wie es in den Folgebänden weiter geht, aber umso schöner, dass sie bereits erschienen sind und ich den zweiten auch hier habe :D das Hörbuch wird von Ann vielhaben gelesen, die auch Throne of Glass oder Kuss der Lüge liest! Sie passt einfach so perfekt in solche Geschichten, wobei man aufpassen muss sonst wirft man irgendwann alles durcheinander haha!
March 16, 2017
Filled with all the YA fantasy cliches you could possibly think of. The lack of originality had me cringing and the writing didn't do anything to really make up for it.
December 24, 2017
3.5 Stars
This is one of those books I really wanted to love, but it just kept coming up short.
If you're a fan of fantasy or YA, frostblood offers nothing new. To me, it just felt like a mix of different plots that has already been done before.
With that said, I will read the sequel, because I've heard it's a step up from the first- and because I genuienly like her characters and world.
Edited 24.12.17 due to spelling errors.
This is one of those books I really wanted to love, but it just kept coming up short.
If you're a fan of fantasy or YA, frostblood offers nothing new. To me, it just felt like a mix of different plots that has already been done before.
With that said, I will read the sequel, because I've heard it's a step up from the first- and because I genuienly like her characters and world.
Edited 24.12.17 due to spelling errors.
February 17, 2017
Frostblood was nothing special per se, but that doesn't make this a bad book. If you enjoyed Throne of Glass, The Queen of the Tearling, and/or Snow Like Ashes then you will probably really enjoy this book. And you know what star rating I gave all of those books I just listed? Three stars, too. Strong, young female protagonist, who got dealt a bad hand in their early life, is now fighting for their rightful place on the throne. This story-line isn't bad, but it is not anything new or groundbreaking that is going to change YA fantasy as we know it. And there isn't anything wrong with that, either, but it also isn't going to get five stars or make any best of 2017 lists, for me.
The magic in this world is separated from people that wield frost, Frostbloods, and people that wield fire, Firebloods. Which, by the way, the book for sure emphasizes a Fireblood, and how needed she was, so I feel like this book should have been titled Fireblood, and perhaps the next be Frostblood. But I don't work in the publishing world, so who am I? Anyways, Frostbloods show extreme prejudice towards Firebloods, to the point that they seem pretty much extinct. The kingdom in this world is ruled by the Frost King, and his whole arsenal is frost users. When they discover Firebloods, they capture them, treat them horribly, and then force them to compete for their lives in an arena versus a Frostblood Champion, which the Fireblood will always die. That is, until the most powerful Fireblood ever to be born is found. *dun dun duuun*
Ruby, said powerful Fireblood, is only seventeen, and dealing with the very new loss of her mother. After escaping prison, she finds herself at the mercy of some Frostblood monks, who are trying to teach her the full potential of her power. One of those monks is name Arcus, and I was actually a fan of him. Both of his "plot-twists" were incredibly predictable, but I actually did like him as a character. He was probably the shining light of this story for me. Hell, maybe I'm happy the book was called Frostblood, because he was my favorite.
I do fear for his story-line, though, because (not to get into spoiler territory) he has a disfigurement, and I feel like the author walked that line of sympathy and "I wish he was normal" and I was scared that I was going to have to give this book one star on quite a few occasions, but she never crossed that line. I loved that Arcus wasn't perfect, and I loved his imperfection; I just hope Ruby keeps loving it, too.
There is a good discussion in this book about how we perceive others, and marginalize the group in which they are in, off of what other people say about them/the group. Obviously this is something pretty important and relevant in 2017, and anything that is able to start a discussion and have others start to think about this important topic is absolutely amazing.
This is Elly Blake's debut novel, and I think she does have potential to develop this story into something that I will think is above average. Like I said, I didn't dislike this book by any stretch of the imagination; I just wanted more than what I received. I will for sure continue on with book two, and I will definitely give this world and these characters another chance.
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The magic in this world is separated from people that wield frost, Frostbloods, and people that wield fire, Firebloods. Which, by the way, the book for sure emphasizes a Fireblood, and how needed she was, so I feel like this book should have been titled Fireblood, and perhaps the next be Frostblood. But I don't work in the publishing world, so who am I? Anyways, Frostbloods show extreme prejudice towards Firebloods, to the point that they seem pretty much extinct. The kingdom in this world is ruled by the Frost King, and his whole arsenal is frost users. When they discover Firebloods, they capture them, treat them horribly, and then force them to compete for their lives in an arena versus a Frostblood Champion, which the Fireblood will always die. That is, until the most powerful Fireblood ever to be born is found. *dun dun duuun*
Ruby, said powerful Fireblood, is only seventeen, and dealing with the very new loss of her mother. After escaping prison, she finds herself at the mercy of some Frostblood monks, who are trying to teach her the full potential of her power. One of those monks is name Arcus, and I was actually a fan of him. Both of his "plot-twists" were incredibly predictable, but I actually did like him as a character. He was probably the shining light of this story for me. Hell, maybe I'm happy the book was called Frostblood, because he was my favorite.
I do fear for his story-line, though, because (not to get into spoiler territory) he has a disfigurement, and I feel like the author walked that line of sympathy and "I wish he was normal" and I was scared that I was going to have to give this book one star on quite a few occasions, but she never crossed that line. I loved that Arcus wasn't perfect, and I loved his imperfection; I just hope Ruby keeps loving it, too.
There is a good discussion in this book about how we perceive others, and marginalize the group in which they are in, off of what other people say about them/the group. Obviously this is something pretty important and relevant in 2017, and anything that is able to start a discussion and have others start to think about this important topic is absolutely amazing.
This is Elly Blake's debut novel, and I think she does have potential to develop this story into something that I will think is above average. Like I said, I didn't dislike this book by any stretch of the imagination; I just wanted more than what I received. I will for sure continue on with book two, and I will definitely give this world and these characters another chance.
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November 12, 2018
“Stillness was a kind of violence in the hands of people who played at handing out pain.”
2.5★
First off let me just start by saying that I did not HATE this book per se; I was just really disappointed by how it turned out and the cliché events that took place. Frostblood follows Ruby who is a Fireblood living in Fors; which is basically a place where she will be hunted down for her powers and what she can do. Along the book she finds her way grows as a character and does everything that is usually done in a typical YA book.
List of All the cliché things that happen in this book:
Exhibit A: special snowflake of a girl whose powers are the reason the world will be saved the girl however; doesn’t know this and when told she will probably be disbelieving and shocked and in denial
Exhibit B: the main love interest and Ruby are polar opposites and absolutely hate each other at first before learning to love and accept each other. Now where have I seen this before??
Exhibit C: a prophecy of any sort with the mc in it which leads to YES, you guessed it more denial and more “but why am I the chosen one” moments.
Exhibit D: the forcing of a completely unnecessary and really awkward love triangle (minor one) down the reader’s throats. LIKE PLS STOP.
Honestly, I have a feeling there were more but I just can’t remember all the scenes and details so let me just get down to the actual story *cracks knuckles*. Oh boy, the plot felt extremely rushed and awkward at the first few chapters but the pacing starts to get better towards the middle and the end. I must say that the plot got a whole lot better towards the end and I was surprised by it.
The writing style is simple it’s not too over the top but some of the scenes were really boring. The characters were bearable and their development and character arc were quite alright. The plot itself was quite cliché but I did end up enjoying it towards the end because of how the story developed. In the end however, I felt no connection with the characters at all but maybe it will get better for me as the series goes on? The magical elements of this book was quite interesting though and the folklore and myths of their land was interesting to follow.
LOW POINTS:
a) the pacing in the beginning
b) that shitty love triangle
c) basically all those tropes in general
HIGHLIGHTS:
a) powers
b) fight scenes
c) Arcus
Overall, I would say that this book was alright and I might end up continuing the series to see if it gets better.
2.5★
First off let me just start by saying that I did not HATE this book per se; I was just really disappointed by how it turned out and the cliché events that took place. Frostblood follows Ruby who is a Fireblood living in Fors; which is basically a place where she will be hunted down for her powers and what she can do. Along the book she finds her way grows as a character and does everything that is usually done in a typical YA book.
List of All the cliché things that happen in this book:
Exhibit A: special snowflake of a girl whose powers are the reason the world will be saved the girl however; doesn’t know this and when told she will probably be disbelieving and shocked and in denial
Exhibit B: the main love interest and Ruby are polar opposites and absolutely hate each other at first before learning to love and accept each other. Now where have I seen this before??
Exhibit C: a prophecy of any sort with the mc in it which leads to YES, you guessed it more denial and more “but why am I the chosen one” moments.
Exhibit D: the forcing of a completely unnecessary and really awkward love triangle (minor one) down the reader’s throats. LIKE PLS STOP.
Honestly, I have a feeling there were more but I just can’t remember all the scenes and details so let me just get down to the actual story *cracks knuckles*. Oh boy, the plot felt extremely rushed and awkward at the first few chapters but the pacing starts to get better towards the middle and the end. I must say that the plot got a whole lot better towards the end and I was surprised by it.
The writing style is simple it’s not too over the top but some of the scenes were really boring. The characters were bearable and their development and character arc were quite alright. The plot itself was quite cliché but I did end up enjoying it towards the end because of how the story developed. In the end however, I felt no connection with the characters at all but maybe it will get better for me as the series goes on? The magical elements of this book was quite interesting though and the folklore and myths of their land was interesting to follow.
LOW POINTS:
a) the pacing in the beginning
b) that shitty love triangle
c) basically all those tropes in general
HIGHLIGHTS:
a) powers
b) fight scenes
c) Arcus
Overall, I would say that this book was alright and I might end up continuing the series to see if it gets better.
February 10, 2017
An Advance Reader Copy was provided by the publisher for review. Quotes pulled from the ARC may be incorrect and may be subject to change.
Welp, I read through this quickly. Even though it started off a bit slow, it was great that the relationships were allowed to develop slowly and surely. I did like the world building even if it was an info dump told through story-telling around a campfire. The war between the two magical factions reminded me of Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen series, so if you like that world, you'd like this one. I prefer this world though. The battle in the arena reminded me so much of the movie, Gladiator! Except that it's a female lead. I like the main characters budding hate-to-love relationship and the gladiator style battle scenes were exciting to read.
As for the characters, I thought Ruby was a bit slow on piecing things together. She also seems to cry a lot and thinks of herself as weak, when in reality you know she's not. She reminded me of X-Men's Jean Grey and the Phoenix. I think this was done on purpose so we could see how she grows as a character. Here's hoping her character develops in the next book. The chemistry between Ruby and Arcus was super hot. I found myself swooning at times and I really liked their relationship. My fave romances are always hate-to-love and this was one of my favourites.
A wonderful fantasy debut written by a fellow Canadian, I couldn't put it down until it was finished. Can't wait for the next book and you'll be sure I'll be requesting an ARC of the next book.
RATING 4/5
QUOTES
"If you hurt me, I'll burn you do badly even your mistress will run in terror." (26)
"I'm no danger to anyone but the people who hurt me." (44)
"If we all had names to suit us, you'd be called Thorn in My Backside. Or Plague of the Gods.
And you'd be Miserable Blockhead." (85)
"Why would anyone want to stir up hatred when there was so much already?" (177)
"Your touch hurts me, too. But it's a pain I enjoy." (302)
"There is always light in darkness. It may only be a pinpoint, but it is there. Follow it and you will find your way free." (309)
"When it comes to you, I like to be burned." (371)
Welp, I read through this quickly. Even though it started off a bit slow, it was great that the relationships were allowed to develop slowly and surely. I did like the world building even if it was an info dump told through story-telling around a campfire. The war between the two magical factions reminded me of Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen series, so if you like that world, you'd like this one. I prefer this world though. The battle in the arena reminded me so much of the movie, Gladiator! Except that it's a female lead. I like the main characters budding hate-to-love relationship and the gladiator style battle scenes were exciting to read.
As for the characters, I thought Ruby was a bit slow on piecing things together. She also seems to cry a lot and thinks of herself as weak, when in reality you know she's not. She reminded me of X-Men's Jean Grey and the Phoenix. I think this was done on purpose so we could see how she grows as a character. Here's hoping her character develops in the next book. The chemistry between Ruby and Arcus was super hot. I found myself swooning at times and I really liked their relationship. My fave romances are always hate-to-love and this was one of my favourites.
A wonderful fantasy debut written by a fellow Canadian, I couldn't put it down until it was finished. Can't wait for the next book and you'll be sure I'll be requesting an ARC of the next book.
RATING 4/5
QUOTES
"If you hurt me, I'll burn you do badly even your mistress will run in terror." (26)
"I'm no danger to anyone but the people who hurt me." (44)
"If we all had names to suit us, you'd be called Thorn in My Backside. Or Plague of the Gods.
And you'd be Miserable Blockhead." (85)
"Why would anyone want to stir up hatred when there was so much already?" (177)
"Your touch hurts me, too. But it's a pain I enjoy." (302)
"There is always light in darkness. It may only be a pinpoint, but it is there. Follow it and you will find your way free." (309)
"When it comes to you, I like to be burned." (371)
October 27, 2016
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
This book was amazing! I don't know how good this review will be, because I just loved the book so much. The first in a new series, Frostblood follows our heroine, Ruby, who is a Fireblood in a world of Frostblood’s. Her country is ruled by the wicked Frost King, who has his minions seek out and destroy any Fireblood about. Hiding her powers for years, she unwittingly draws the soldiers to her village, and her mother is killed. On the run, she meets a mysterious Frostblood warrior, Arcus, and seeks refuge in a local monastery. There, she begins to learn how to use her powers, and with the help of Arcus, begins to become strong enough to fight back.
The world building in this book was fantastic. Considering it’s a debut by Blake, I was overwhelmed with the language and descriptive techniques used. Though it’s been touted as similar to Red Queen and Throne of Glass, I found it blew them both out of the water. Honestly, I was mesmerised from the first page, until the last.
The main characters, Ruby and Arcus, were extremely fleshed out, and their characterisations seemed perfect, for their stories. Ruby is headstrong, and doesn’t take to criticism and her training well, to begin with. All she wants is revenge against the Frost King and his army, and she doesn’t really care if she dies doing it. However, she’s one of the strongest Frostblood’s that has ever been seen, and there’s more riding on her than simply revenge. Arcus was brooding, and aloof, but as the book progressed, we learned more and more about him. I had guessed who he was quite early on, but still enjoyed learning more about him.
The romance was fairly none existent for the most part of the book, but in the best way. It was that kind of slow burning romance that makes you want to scream and swoon at the sometime. I’m hoping that in book 2, well see a lot more of the romantic side of the story.
Thank you, Hodder and Chapter 5, for my ARC. I’m just a bit gutted that I read the book so early, because it means the wait for book 2 is that much longer.
This book was amazing! I don't know how good this review will be, because I just loved the book so much. The first in a new series, Frostblood follows our heroine, Ruby, who is a Fireblood in a world of Frostblood’s. Her country is ruled by the wicked Frost King, who has his minions seek out and destroy any Fireblood about. Hiding her powers for years, she unwittingly draws the soldiers to her village, and her mother is killed. On the run, she meets a mysterious Frostblood warrior, Arcus, and seeks refuge in a local monastery. There, she begins to learn how to use her powers, and with the help of Arcus, begins to become strong enough to fight back.
The world building in this book was fantastic. Considering it’s a debut by Blake, I was overwhelmed with the language and descriptive techniques used. Though it’s been touted as similar to Red Queen and Throne of Glass, I found it blew them both out of the water. Honestly, I was mesmerised from the first page, until the last.
The main characters, Ruby and Arcus, were extremely fleshed out, and their characterisations seemed perfect, for their stories. Ruby is headstrong, and doesn’t take to criticism and her training well, to begin with. All she wants is revenge against the Frost King and his army, and she doesn’t really care if she dies doing it. However, she’s one of the strongest Frostblood’s that has ever been seen, and there’s more riding on her than simply revenge. Arcus was brooding, and aloof, but as the book progressed, we learned more and more about him. I had guessed who he was quite early on, but still enjoyed learning more about him.
The romance was fairly none existent for the most part of the book, but in the best way. It was that kind of slow burning romance that makes you want to scream and swoon at the sometime. I’m hoping that in book 2, well see a lot more of the romantic side of the story.
Thank you, Hodder and Chapter 5, for my ARC. I’m just a bit gutted that I read the book so early, because it means the wait for book 2 is that much longer.
August 22, 2016
This book was a lot of fun! I was wary at first because the synopsis felt like a lot of other YA novels out there, but I was pleasantly surprised. There are a few YA tropes in this story but the author truly makes it her own, and everything just works. I loved the characters, especially Ruby, our heroine. She was sassy and strong, even when she was weak physically. It was interesting from beginning to end and just a really solid story.
February 22, 2022
✅ Hate-to-love
✅ Magic / Powers
✅ Action
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 World-building
The reviews for this book are quite mixed, but I enjoyed it even though it is nothing new and it is predictable.
The world-building is simple, but sufficient for this story. The Frostbloods have an affinity (can control) with ice, and the Fireblood have an affinity with fire. They have been at war with each other forever.
Ruby was a little annoying at first, she is probably the last Fireblood in the country and she has a tendency to cry and think she is weak and useless, when she is in fact quite powerful, she just needs to learn to control her powers. Arcas is a mysterious and broody man and I liked how he slowly opened himself to Ruby. Even though it was super predictable, I enjoyed the slow development of their relationship and the hot chemistry between them.
The storyline was also predictable, but still very enjoyable, I was hooked up at the first chapter, and even though it slows down a bit after that, I enjoyed reading the first half of the book where we discover the characters. The second half is full of action, so really it was easy to read this book quite fast. Ruby has to fight in the Frostblood king's arena near the end of the book and it added a gladiator touch to the book.
As I said, there is nothing really new to this book and the romance and plot-line are predictable, but I still enjoyed this book very much and I can't wait to read the next one.
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✅ Magic / Powers
✅ Action
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 World-building
The reviews for this book are quite mixed, but I enjoyed it even though it is nothing new and it is predictable.
The world-building is simple, but sufficient for this story. The Frostbloods have an affinity (can control) with ice, and the Fireblood have an affinity with fire. They have been at war with each other forever.
Ruby was a little annoying at first, she is probably the last Fireblood in the country and she has a tendency to cry and think she is weak and useless, when she is in fact quite powerful, she just needs to learn to control her powers. Arcas is a mysterious and broody man and I liked how he slowly opened himself to Ruby. Even though it was super predictable, I enjoyed the slow development of their relationship and the hot chemistry between them.
The storyline was also predictable, but still very enjoyable, I was hooked up at the first chapter, and even though it slows down a bit after that, I enjoyed reading the first half of the book where we discover the characters. The second half is full of action, so really it was easy to read this book quite fast. Ruby has to fight in the Frostblood king's arena near the end of the book and it added a gladiator touch to the book.
As I said, there is nothing really new to this book and the romance and plot-line are predictable, but I still enjoyed this book very much and I can't wait to read the next one.
“Face them all like a warrior, whether you are one or not.”
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May 9, 2019
Not sure if I loved this so much because I was in the perfect mood for fantasy, or because I've had a month of low rated reads, but I soaked this up! I'm sad that I gave away my physical copy based on the book jacket synopsis.
Reasons you might like this:
-elemental magic - fire, ice, light, darkness
-enemies to love with lots of banter and softness
-a competition (but it's not too big a part of the plot)
-a morally gray heroine that might be a prophesied villain (!!!)
Anyway, just throw the other 2 books my way, I'm gonna blaze through this series.
Audiobook review: 4 star narration. The narrator had a very pleasant voice to listen to and I had no problems with the voicing or emotion.
Reasons you might like this:
-elemental magic - fire, ice, light, darkness
-enemies to love with lots of banter and softness
-a competition (but it's not too big a part of the plot)
-a morally gray heroine that might be a prophesied villain (!!!)
Anyway, just throw the other 2 books my way, I'm gonna blaze through this series.
Audiobook review: 4 star narration. The narrator had a very pleasant voice to listen to and I had no problems with the voicing or emotion.
February 10, 2017
3.75/5 - This review can also be found on my blog, Dana and the Books
I've mentioned it before, but my weakness is characters overthrowing the governing power. I've also been reading a ton of YA fantasy lately so naturally Frostblood has been on my radar for a while now.
Since moving to England I get 10x more excited whenever Canada is mentioned anywhere, and with author Elly Blake being Canadian, I got extra eager to read it.
Overall, Frostblood was an enjoyable read and a solid addition to the YA fantasy genre. While some parts were predictable, I spent a great couple evenings doing nothing but turning the pages, engrossed in Ruby's story. The pacing didn't slow down throughout so you can fly through it quickly - it's the perfect book for a Saturday afternoon binge read!
The first 100 pages were jam packed with information and events, but the writing was solid so following along wasn't difficult or confusing.
However, a lot of YA fantasy cliches appeared throughout:
- Guardian dies leaving main character all alone
- Brooding YA Hero who clashes with main character
- Wise man
- Trains to use powers
- Prophecy
- Chosen one
- Arena battle
I am 100% fine with cliches as long as they are done well, and I do feel in Frostblood they were good additions to the story. Apart from one: the Arcus/Ruby romance story line. I know some readers live for the ships, but I'd rather have no romance at all than a seemingly forced romance. Their romance subplot felt strained and compulsory rather than natural and genuine. After the halfway point in the book, I would skimmed those scenes until the main plot came back.
I originally received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for a review, but I just couldn't resist picking up a copy when I went back to Canada in January. So my review is of the finished Canadian copy rather than the eARC.
It's out now! (Book Depository / Amazon US / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK)
I've mentioned it before, but my weakness is characters overthrowing the governing power. I've also been reading a ton of YA fantasy lately so naturally Frostblood has been on my radar for a while now.
Since moving to England I get 10x more excited whenever Canada is mentioned anywhere, and with author Elly Blake being Canadian, I got extra eager to read it.
Overall, Frostblood was an enjoyable read and a solid addition to the YA fantasy genre. While some parts were predictable, I spent a great couple evenings doing nothing but turning the pages, engrossed in Ruby's story. The pacing didn't slow down throughout so you can fly through it quickly - it's the perfect book for a Saturday afternoon binge read!
The first 100 pages were jam packed with information and events, but the writing was solid so following along wasn't difficult or confusing.
However, a lot of YA fantasy cliches appeared throughout:
- Guardian dies leaving main character all alone
- Brooding YA Hero who clashes with main character
- Wise man
- Trains to use powers
- Prophecy
- Chosen one
- Arena battle
I am 100% fine with cliches as long as they are done well, and I do feel in Frostblood they were good additions to the story. Apart from one: the Arcus/Ruby romance story line. I know some readers live for the ships, but I'd rather have no romance at all than a seemingly forced romance. Their romance subplot felt strained and compulsory rather than natural and genuine. After the halfway point in the book, I would skimmed those scenes until the main plot came back.
I originally received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for a review, but I just couldn't resist picking up a copy when I went back to Canada in January. So my review is of the finished Canadian copy rather than the eARC.
It's out now! (Book Depository / Amazon US / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK)
February 6, 2017
Actual rating: 3.5 starsBut history could be twisted and warped to suit the person telling it.
From the first sight Frostblood might seem like nothing special; something that we all have read before: a girl with special powers that are either dangerous or forbidden and she has to hide them. A tragic story that drives a girl to fight her oppressors. A hot guy who helps her. And so one. But under all the visible cliches there's a hidden gem. Yes, I want to call this book a hidden gem, because I find it to be one of the best debut novels I've read this year (I know the year is still young, but something tells me my opinion won't change in the end).
The story is about a girl Ruby. She lives in a world of Frostbloods - a ruling class with the named abilities to control cold. And Ruby is a Fireblood - controls fire, so you can imagine that Frostbloods are not happy about her abilities, because fire and cold are opposites that can't coexist in that world. The girl hides her powers from the world, training in secret, but one day soldiers arrive at her village and kill Ruby's mother in cold blood right in front of the girl, and then take Ruby to prison. After moths locked away in cold and humiliation, two strangers arrive and propose a deal to Ruby: they will free her if she agrees to help them kill the King, the one who orchestrated the hunt after the Firebloods that lead to the extinction of almost the whole species. Ruby agrees, but, of course, there's always more to the deal, and Ruby doesn't know a first thing about the war and what she's risking agreeing to be a part of.
PROS:
The world-building is amazing. Granted, we don't see a lot of the world around in book 1, but we learn a lot through stories and myths. The myth part is fascinating from he capital A. I always had weakness when it comes to stories inside the stories. There's something enchanting in reading about the stories that live in myth and veiled with mystery, and the waiting for them to come alive and be part of the real world inside the story is overwhelming. And in the case of Frostblood these myths are coming alive, and apart from telling us the history of the world, they are telling us about the possible future.
Right and wrong side of the story. If you have noticed I chose my head-quote for a reason. As we all are well aware history is written by the victors. In this book we see that people hate Firebloods, because they were taught to hate them. And Ruby hates Frostbloods, because they hunt and destroy her people. Both sides are convinced in their righteousness. The truth is in the eye of the beholder. But real life is more gray than black or white. And we'll learn very soon Fire and Cold can work together if only they'd let go of their mutual hatred and prejudices.
This book was brutal. From the first pages when soldiers killed Ruby's mother and till the end the story was filled with blood and suffering. It was emotionally hard for me to read about what the heroine went through mentally and physically (nothing in a rape category, though). The descriptions were pretty vivid, but not gory enough to make me cringe. I had a Gladiator movie vibe, considering that there's Gladiator fights in the book and the mood was pretty suiting. So if you are looking for un-sugarcoated young-adult fantasy, than Frostblood is your thing!Stillness was a kind of violence in the hands of people who played at handing out pain.
The heroine - Ruby was easy for me to relate with. I sympathize with the girl instantly. This is a first person narration and it can be tricky, because you are stuck in a character's head for a whole book, and if there's no connection than you'd either hate the person (looking at you Mare) or feel nothing, which is even worse, I think. And I believe, because of Ruby I connected with the story from the first pages, which happens rarely to me so early on in a book. The other thing that I liked about Ruby is that she goes after what she wants, but she doesn't feel like a hero of martyr. She wants revenge, but she thinks of people who could get hurt in the process. I can't not respect a person like that: selfish, yes, but not egocentric.I wasn’t being noble. There was nothing noble about a thirst for revenge. It was about getting what I wanted, a chance to kill the king. And no one else would have to suffer because of me.
Plus the girl is a healer; she was raised to value life, to preserve it. She doesn't want to kill, but it doesn't mean she won't have to, because she does and she kills, but she values the lives she takes and always looks for a way without killing anyone. Alas to kill or not to kill often did not depend on Ruby's willingness, because arena is a place where you either kill or be killed. As I said, a brutal book!
I liked the romance, the first stage of the romance, to be exact. I adored Ruby's and Arcus's bickering. From enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and I never - never - say no to a sizzling chemistry between two characters.“If we all had names to suit us, you’d be called Thorn in My Backside. Or Plague of the Gods.”
I prickled at his scathing tone. “And you’d be Miserable Blockhead.”
“Is that the best you can do?”“Give me time. I’m half frozen.” <..> “Perhaps your name should be Icy Tyrant. No, wait. Frigid Despot.”“You speak as if I’m as heavy as an ox,” I said. “Last week I was a bundle of sticks.”
“You’re still too thin.”
“Perhaps if I gain some weight, you won’t call me a stick anymore.”
“You may hope to one day be a branch.”
I glanced at him sharply, unable to repress a little flutter of delight that he was bothering to joke with me.“A log, even,” I suggested.
“Doubtful,” he said wryly.
I loved the easy-going relationship they had. Ruby and Arcus spent months together, and there wasn't insta anything between them, but a gradual getting to know each other, then trust, friendship and love.
The writing keeps you glued to the pages. It is definitely commendable for the author, because it is her debut novel and such level of masterly is not often met even in more experienced authors. The way Elly Blake tells her story, especially the myths part, is fascinating.
CONS:
Second half of the book was a little bit sagging. Some of the characters' actions made me doubt the logic of such decisions, but it is the first part in a trilogy (?), so I will forgive the author for some extremity, and will wait to see how the author continues her story in book 2.
The romance turned into a sugarcoated glue in the second part of the book. It was my biggest disappointment after such a lovely start, and probably the main reason I couldn't give the book full 4 stars. It felt like one started a race but dropped dead sheer meters form the finish line. You can't give me such drive between characters and then turn it into mash. I blame the urgency with which the author jumped into romantic jungles and turned a perfect chemistry into a perfect sugar overdose. I lost all the joy from Ruby and Arcus as a couple, but I really hope the spark will return. So far I insist on my belief that the author rushed the romantic part too early; maybe she should've tortured us with angst a little bit longer? Of course, it might be just me and my tastes, and other people will find the romance suiting or might not like it from the beginning and won't feel any discomfort at all if they don't care for Ruby and Arcus as a couple.
There's cliches in this book, especially the once in the romance part: he smells divinely, his eyes shine with thousand of colors and so one. Plus some move plots were pretty obvious, but that, overall, didn't spoil my general enjoyment of the book.
Bottom line: Definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a light but not silly YA fantasy with interesting world and nice characters. Plus the writing is lovely. I'd say if you enjoyed Red Queen, this book might be to your liking too. If you didn't like Red Queen, then you have even more reasons to read Frostblood, because, in my opinion, it is better than the aforementioned queen.
August 29, 2018
3.5
Full Review
Buddy read with fake Alexander
What I liked
- I loved that the book became interesting from chapter 1, instead of having a slow start. It made me interested in the book immediately.
- I liked the Fire VS Frost storyline: Basically, there is a war against the firebloods (people who can control fire) by the Frostblood king. He pretty much kills all the firebloods he and his soldiers could find. I loved that the history about where the two groups came from was explained and also, why they hated each other.
- Arcus, the love interest, was not your typical "hottest guy" character and I actually liked him better for that.
What I didn't like
- This book had some YA cliches; like the mysterious cold, distant, love interest , and the 'chosen one' trope. Overall, this book reminded me alot of other books I have read.
Anyways, it was a good book in general and I was never bored.
Full Review
Buddy read with fake Alexander
What I liked
- I loved that the book became interesting from chapter 1, instead of having a slow start. It made me interested in the book immediately.
- I liked the Fire VS Frost storyline: Basically, there is a war against the firebloods (people who can control fire) by the Frostblood king. He pretty much kills all the firebloods he and his soldiers could find. I loved that the history about where the two groups came from was explained and also, why they hated each other.
- Arcus, the love interest, was not your typical "hottest guy" character and I actually liked him better for that.
What I didn't like
- This book had some YA cliches; like the mysterious cold, distant, love interest , and the 'chosen one' trope. Overall, this book reminded me alot of other books I have read.
Anyways, it was a good book in general and I was never bored.
February 7, 2017
3.75/5 stars
Review Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUF2L...
Very particular rating, but honestly it just feels right. I enjoyed this book and although certain factors fell flat, I will be continuing on with this series since I do want to know what happens next.
**eARC provided by the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Review Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUF2L...
Very particular rating, but honestly it just feels right. I enjoyed this book and although certain factors fell flat, I will be continuing on with this series since I do want to know what happens next.
**eARC provided by the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
November 24, 2016
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Frostblood by Elly Blake
Book One of the Frostblood Saga series
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 10, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Seventeen-year-old Ruby is a fireblood who must hide her powers of heat and flame from the cruel frostblood ruling class that wants to destroy all that are left of her kind. So when her mother is killed for protecting her and rebel frostbloods demand her help to kill their rampaging king, she agrees. But Ruby's powers are unpredictable, and she's not sure she's willing to let the rebels and an infuriating (yet irresistible) young man called Arcus use her as their weapon.
All she wants is revenge, but before they can take action, Ruby is captured and forced to take part in the king's tournaments that pit fireblood prisoners against frostblood champions. Now she has only one chance to destroy the maniacal ruler who has taken everything from her and from the icy young man she has come to love.
Fast-paced and compelling, Frostblood is the first in a page-turning new young adult three-book series about a world where flame and ice are mortal enemies—but together create a power that could change everything.
What I Liked:
Here it is, folks - my first 2017 book review! After receiving a review copy, I couldn't wait to read Frostblood, so it's very fitting that this would be a review of my first 2017-published book. And even better - this book did not disappoint me!
Ruby is a Fireblood, and possibly one of the last in existence. Firebloods have been wiped out by Frostbloods. The king is a powerful Frostblood, aided by the power of an ancient evil. Ruby is discovered by the king's soldiers, the soldiers kill her mother, and take Ruby to a prison. When two frostbloods come to the prison to break her out in exchange for her help with taking down the frostblood king, Ruby is cautious but she agrees. She has despised frostbloods since her mother's murder, but the monks who take her in are not so bad. Neither is the warrior young man who assists the monks in breaking her out of prison. As Ruby trains to become stronger to defeat the evil power that is fueling the king, she begins to realize that she has a lot more to lose than she thought. But she will fight to protect the ones she has grown to love, and destroy anyone in her path.
This book started off shockingly (with Ruby's capture and her mother's murder), and I was hooked from that point onward. There are so many scene shifts in the book, so many settings, and so much action. You know how usually the protagonist in a fantasy novel will be in one setting for about half the book, and then after he/she "learns" everything important, he/she goes off to battle? Not quite the setup, in this book. I was on board with this! There were many changes of scenery, and the while Ruby is at the monastery for a good amount of time, she isn't there for the majority of the book.
I was so impressed with the characterization and character development in this book. Ruby is feisty and brash, qualities you might expect to see in a fire wielder. Arcus, the frostblood who helps break out Ruby and train her at the monastery, seems cold and impervious, just like you'd expect from an ice wielder.
I adored Ruby. She's a little impulsive and temperamental, and she has a very difficult time controlling her fire. I liked her feisty attitude, and sharpness of her retorts, and how she wouldn't take crap from anyone. Ruby is not weak, though she is vulnerable more than once in the book. She fights for herself and for others. At first she might seem selfish, but it makes sense, given how long she was in prison. And she becomes selfless and noble, as the book goes on.
Arcus is arguably the second protagonist of the book. The book is told from Ruby's first-person POV, but I think Arcus is just as important. He isn't a monk, but he lives with them. From the start, he and Ruby clash and do not get along. They push and pull, argue and bicker, and it really seemed like they hated each other. Arcus is impatient and stern, mysterious and hardened. I liked Arcus despite how hard he was on Ruby, initially. He had good reason to be hard on her, though reading from Ruby's POV might convince you otherwise. Arcus has a difficult past that he doesn't like to talk about, which makes him all the more mysterious. But once we find out his entire story, I wanted to hug him. He has had to live with quite a bit of tragedy - no wonder he wanted to be like the ice he creates.
How could I not mention the romance, after talking about those two? I loved the romance in this book. They are fire and ice - literally. I have always loved the idea of opposites attract, AND I love hate-to-love romance, plus all the arguing/banter... there is a lot of tension and passion between these two, and it spills over. But it's not just their natures clashing - their personalities are the exact opposite and it's so fun to watch unfold. I hope there will be more romantic clashes in future books, because this book certainly did not have enough! Also, no love triangle.
The story was sweeping and captivating, and had me engrossed from the start. I could not put this book down! Go figure, I started reading it around midnight. And I did not stop reading it until I was finished! It was that good.
I love fantasy, and I love how different and intriguing this fantasy was. The world-building was well-written, and I liked how much history of the kingdom that the author included. I liked that prophecies weren't too heavy in this book, though there were a few floating around. The author set up a really epic fantasy story, and I was impressed.
I am beyond excited to get my hands on the second book! While I thought this book ended perfectly and could stop there, I'm excited to see where the author will go with the story.
What I Did Not Like:
More tug-of-war between Arcus and Ruby! Their interactions are part of some of my favorite scenes in this book. I hope Ruby never loses her hot temper and spunk, and I hope Arcus never loses his imperious uptight-ness!
Would I Recommend It:
If you enjoy YA high fantasy, then I definitely recommend this book. It's good stuff, very fresh and engrossing and entertaining. I would have loved it as a standalone, but it's cool that it's part of a series. High fantasy is my favorite genre, and so I'm usually even more critical, with high fantasy. But this book really pleased me!
Rating:
4.5 stars. I have no good reason for rounding down, other than I'm picky. But seriously, this book was incredible! I had a feeling that I would like it, but I really really liked it. I hope the next book does not disappoint me!
Frostblood by Elly Blake
Book One of the Frostblood Saga series
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 10, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Seventeen-year-old Ruby is a fireblood who must hide her powers of heat and flame from the cruel frostblood ruling class that wants to destroy all that are left of her kind. So when her mother is killed for protecting her and rebel frostbloods demand her help to kill their rampaging king, she agrees. But Ruby's powers are unpredictable, and she's not sure she's willing to let the rebels and an infuriating (yet irresistible) young man called Arcus use her as their weapon.
All she wants is revenge, but before they can take action, Ruby is captured and forced to take part in the king's tournaments that pit fireblood prisoners against frostblood champions. Now she has only one chance to destroy the maniacal ruler who has taken everything from her and from the icy young man she has come to love.
Fast-paced and compelling, Frostblood is the first in a page-turning new young adult three-book series about a world where flame and ice are mortal enemies—but together create a power that could change everything.
What I Liked:
Here it is, folks - my first 2017 book review! After receiving a review copy, I couldn't wait to read Frostblood, so it's very fitting that this would be a review of my first 2017-published book. And even better - this book did not disappoint me!
Ruby is a Fireblood, and possibly one of the last in existence. Firebloods have been wiped out by Frostbloods. The king is a powerful Frostblood, aided by the power of an ancient evil. Ruby is discovered by the king's soldiers, the soldiers kill her mother, and take Ruby to a prison. When two frostbloods come to the prison to break her out in exchange for her help with taking down the frostblood king, Ruby is cautious but she agrees. She has despised frostbloods since her mother's murder, but the monks who take her in are not so bad. Neither is the warrior young man who assists the monks in breaking her out of prison. As Ruby trains to become stronger to defeat the evil power that is fueling the king, she begins to realize that she has a lot more to lose than she thought. But she will fight to protect the ones she has grown to love, and destroy anyone in her path.
This book started off shockingly (with Ruby's capture and her mother's murder), and I was hooked from that point onward. There are so many scene shifts in the book, so many settings, and so much action. You know how usually the protagonist in a fantasy novel will be in one setting for about half the book, and then after he/she "learns" everything important, he/she goes off to battle? Not quite the setup, in this book. I was on board with this! There were many changes of scenery, and the while Ruby is at the monastery for a good amount of time, she isn't there for the majority of the book.
I was so impressed with the characterization and character development in this book. Ruby is feisty and brash, qualities you might expect to see in a fire wielder. Arcus, the frostblood who helps break out Ruby and train her at the monastery, seems cold and impervious, just like you'd expect from an ice wielder.
I adored Ruby. She's a little impulsive and temperamental, and she has a very difficult time controlling her fire. I liked her feisty attitude, and sharpness of her retorts, and how she wouldn't take crap from anyone. Ruby is not weak, though she is vulnerable more than once in the book. She fights for herself and for others. At first she might seem selfish, but it makes sense, given how long she was in prison. And she becomes selfless and noble, as the book goes on.
Arcus is arguably the second protagonist of the book. The book is told from Ruby's first-person POV, but I think Arcus is just as important. He isn't a monk, but he lives with them. From the start, he and Ruby clash and do not get along. They push and pull, argue and bicker, and it really seemed like they hated each other. Arcus is impatient and stern, mysterious and hardened. I liked Arcus despite how hard he was on Ruby, initially. He had good reason to be hard on her, though reading from Ruby's POV might convince you otherwise. Arcus has a difficult past that he doesn't like to talk about, which makes him all the more mysterious. But once we find out his entire story, I wanted to hug him. He has had to live with quite a bit of tragedy - no wonder he wanted to be like the ice he creates.
How could I not mention the romance, after talking about those two? I loved the romance in this book. They are fire and ice - literally. I have always loved the idea of opposites attract, AND I love hate-to-love romance, plus all the arguing/banter... there is a lot of tension and passion between these two, and it spills over. But it's not just their natures clashing - their personalities are the exact opposite and it's so fun to watch unfold. I hope there will be more romantic clashes in future books, because this book certainly did not have enough! Also, no love triangle.
The story was sweeping and captivating, and had me engrossed from the start. I could not put this book down! Go figure, I started reading it around midnight. And I did not stop reading it until I was finished! It was that good.
I love fantasy, and I love how different and intriguing this fantasy was. The world-building was well-written, and I liked how much history of the kingdom that the author included. I liked that prophecies weren't too heavy in this book, though there were a few floating around. The author set up a really epic fantasy story, and I was impressed.
I am beyond excited to get my hands on the second book! While I thought this book ended perfectly and could stop there, I'm excited to see where the author will go with the story.
What I Did Not Like:
More tug-of-war between Arcus and Ruby! Their interactions are part of some of my favorite scenes in this book. I hope Ruby never loses her hot temper and spunk, and I hope Arcus never loses his imperious uptight-ness!
Would I Recommend It:
If you enjoy YA high fantasy, then I definitely recommend this book. It's good stuff, very fresh and engrossing and entertaining. I would have loved it as a standalone, but it's cool that it's part of a series. High fantasy is my favorite genre, and so I'm usually even more critical, with high fantasy. But this book really pleased me!
Rating:
4.5 stars. I have no good reason for rounding down, other than I'm picky. But seriously, this book was incredible! I had a feeling that I would like it, but I really really liked it. I hope the next book does not disappoint me!
Shelved as 'arcs'
November 30, 2016Hmm . . . Not sure about this one. We kind of got dumped into chaos.
Apparently the type of magic (FIRE) our MC has is outlawed by the . . . wait for it . . . FROST King, who sends his soldiers out to capture(?) anyone reported to have the ability, which is stoopid, as evidenced by what happened when said soldiers tried to capture MC: lots o' FIRE, lots o' burning soldiers.
Okay, so maybe I am sure about this one . . . 75% sure . . . Probably gonna pass . . . We'll see . . . Ugh.
You can read the preview in BUZZ BOOKS 2016: YA Fall/Winter, available as READ NOW on NetGalley: https://s2.netgalley.com/catalog/book...
Apparently the type of magic (FIRE) our MC has is outlawed by the . . . wait for it . . . FROST King, who sends his soldiers out to capture(?) anyone reported to have the ability, which is stoopid, as evidenced by what happened when said soldiers tried to capture MC: lots o' FIRE, lots o' burning soldiers.
Okay, so maybe I am sure about this one . . . 75% sure . . . Probably gonna pass . . . We'll see . . . Ugh.
You can read the preview in BUZZ BOOKS 2016: YA Fall/Winter, available as READ NOW on NetGalley: https://s2.netgalley.com/catalog/book...
October 5, 2017
I reread this to remind myself of everything before I read Fireblood. I'm really scared and excited and ADFHDGNKJDNSFI!!!!!!!<3<3<3
Original Review:
Oh. My. Goodness. This book was incredible! I can't believe that I have to wait until September for the next one...
Elly Blake has an incredible writing style. The words flowed off the page and all the characters were so well written and developed. This is young adult fantasy at it's peak, I can't believe this book isn't more widely renowned! I was excited about every page, and finished it in less than a day. I couldn't stop reading, and now I could talk about this book forever! The book is fast-paced and it has a great plot all the way through. It doesn't drag on or end abruptly as many books seem to do these days. In case you couldn't tell, I really loved this book. :D
Ruby and Arcus are such great characters, and I love how Ruby is so unpredictable. She's not helpless or overly dependant on others as some female protagonists seem to be. I loved how she was able to take control of a situation, but could also be vulnerable at times. She can sometimes be temperamental and aggressive, but she learns from her mistakes quickly and is also aware of the fact that she has these problems. It was nice that she was not a natural at everything she tried, but had to put in serious effort and hard work before she could achieve her results. She was likeable and easy to root for throughout the novel.
Arcus seems mysterious and has such great character development throughout the novel. He is extremely loyal to the monks and the people. He truly cared about the well-being of others, hence the fact that he was hesitant to trust Ruby at first. He was not impulsive, and rarely let his feelings dictate his actions. It was nice to see how this quiet, serious character developed throughout the book.
I think it is really the characters that make the book so un-put-downable. They are unique and work well together in the given circumstances. The plot and the setting were also brilliant, but really I think the reason I liked it so much was because the characters are so well written and I really wanted to know what happened to them at every twist and turn.
The history of the world that they were in was rich, and very well explained. You were not immediately overwhelmed by too many details being thrown at you all at once, but there was also so many cool things about the world that are beautifully explained.
Some people have criticised this book for being predictable; but I personally did not find it so. I was enthralled by the plot, ideas and concepts throughout, despite a few clichés and familiar tropes. After spending her whole life in hiding, Ruby goes to avenge her people; right into the heart of the enemy. The constant struggle of choosing who to trust and the struggles of controlling her power guide the storyline, and the book was so thrilling.
To anybody who is thinking about reading this book; I highly recommend that you give it a go. ;D
Original Review:
Oh. My. Goodness. This book was incredible! I can't believe that I have to wait until September for the next one...
Elly Blake has an incredible writing style. The words flowed off the page and all the characters were so well written and developed. This is young adult fantasy at it's peak, I can't believe this book isn't more widely renowned! I was excited about every page, and finished it in less than a day. I couldn't stop reading, and now I could talk about this book forever! The book is fast-paced and it has a great plot all the way through. It doesn't drag on or end abruptly as many books seem to do these days. In case you couldn't tell, I really loved this book. :D
Ruby and Arcus are such great characters, and I love how Ruby is so unpredictable. She's not helpless or overly dependant on others as some female protagonists seem to be. I loved how she was able to take control of a situation, but could also be vulnerable at times. She can sometimes be temperamental and aggressive, but she learns from her mistakes quickly and is also aware of the fact that she has these problems. It was nice that she was not a natural at everything she tried, but had to put in serious effort and hard work before she could achieve her results. She was likeable and easy to root for throughout the novel.
Arcus seems mysterious and has such great character development throughout the novel. He is extremely loyal to the monks and the people. He truly cared about the well-being of others, hence the fact that he was hesitant to trust Ruby at first. He was not impulsive, and rarely let his feelings dictate his actions. It was nice to see how this quiet, serious character developed throughout the book.
I think it is really the characters that make the book so un-put-downable. They are unique and work well together in the given circumstances. The plot and the setting were also brilliant, but really I think the reason I liked it so much was because the characters are so well written and I really wanted to know what happened to them at every twist and turn.
The history of the world that they were in was rich, and very well explained. You were not immediately overwhelmed by too many details being thrown at you all at once, but there was also so many cool things about the world that are beautifully explained.
Some people have criticised this book for being predictable; but I personally did not find it so. I was enthralled by the plot, ideas and concepts throughout, despite a few clichés and familiar tropes. After spending her whole life in hiding, Ruby goes to avenge her people; right into the heart of the enemy. The constant struggle of choosing who to trust and the struggles of controlling her power guide the storyline, and the book was so thrilling.
To anybody who is thinking about reading this book; I highly recommend that you give it a go. ;D
May 22, 2019
It was SO GOOOD!
November 23, 2021
The concept of the book was very interesting. If it were beautifully arranged and the characters were written more deeply, it would undoubtedly prove to be a great book.
February 23, 2017
"There is always light in darkness. It may only be a pinpoint, but it is there. Follow it and you will find you way free."
Wow wow wow wow wow
4.5/5 stars
Wow. It's been over 12 hours since I finished this book and I'm honestly still thinking about it and trying to process this. When I first picked this book up 2 days ago, I put it on hold at chapter 7 because I was bored and it was putting me in a slump. I honestly had low hopes for this book but damn it blew my expectations out of the water when I picked it back up again yesterday. I'm so glad I gave this another shot and I'm already beginning the count down for book two (luckily it's only 7 months away). I completely understand why a lot of people didn't find this book amazing because it was a bit stereotypical YA fantasy, but it honestly didn't bother me. I really loved this and I'd definitely recommend going into this book aware of the mixed reviews, but still with an open mind.
I'm sure you can read the blurb for yourself, but basically Ruby is a fireblood which means she's in control of fire and it's basically her entire being and she's been hunted her whole life by the frostbloods who are the opposite of her because they have an old rivalry. She gets taken by the frostbloods from her village where her mother is killed and she gets thrown in a prison. She then gets brother out by 2 men: Brother Thistle and Arcus who take her back to their 'camp' basically. Here she trains to control her fire in order to eventually defeat the Frost King.
The big stand out in this book was definitely the characters. Even though I forgot Ruby's name a solid 10 times, I loved her character. She's definitely not what you expected and there's more to her than meets the eye.
Look, I'm trash for a strong intimidating warrior who trains our main female character. That is the type of guys I love in books and I'm not afraid to admit it. Arcus was the embodiment of everything I love in a male main character. He's a guarded powerful warrior with a dark and twisted path who would die for Ruby and if that doesn't make you weak at the knees, I don't know what does. He's a precious cinnamon roll and I basically spent the entire book squealing about my love for him.
It's discovered early on that Arcus has some pretty serious scars and he hides his face almost entirely by a cloak for a large portion of this book. When his face is finally 'revealed' we find out that his face is covered in burn marks.
"What are you hiding?"
"I'm hiding nothing. I only cover what people don't wish to see."
I feel like Arcus' comments about his scars were so raw and real and I was honestly so broken every time he mentioned about how self conscious they made him. He's honestly such a precious baby and I will protect him with my life. Arcus deserves the world and I will attack those who take it away from him.
Arcus and Ruby's relationship melts my heart and I need more. Book 2 blurb hints at a love triangle emerging and honestly if anything happens to this ship I will scream.
"My bundle of firewood," he said softly. "It's good to have you in my arms again."
Wow wow wow wow wow
4.5/5 stars
Wow. It's been over 12 hours since I finished this book and I'm honestly still thinking about it and trying to process this. When I first picked this book up 2 days ago, I put it on hold at chapter 7 because I was bored and it was putting me in a slump. I honestly had low hopes for this book but damn it blew my expectations out of the water when I picked it back up again yesterday. I'm so glad I gave this another shot and I'm already beginning the count down for book two (luckily it's only 7 months away). I completely understand why a lot of people didn't find this book amazing because it was a bit stereotypical YA fantasy, but it honestly didn't bother me. I really loved this and I'd definitely recommend going into this book aware of the mixed reviews, but still with an open mind.
I'm sure you can read the blurb for yourself, but basically Ruby is a fireblood which means she's in control of fire and it's basically her entire being and she's been hunted her whole life by the frostbloods who are the opposite of her because they have an old rivalry. She gets taken by the frostbloods from her village where her mother is killed and she gets thrown in a prison. She then gets brother out by 2 men: Brother Thistle and Arcus who take her back to their 'camp' basically. Here she trains to control her fire in order to eventually defeat the Frost King.
The big stand out in this book was definitely the characters. Even though I forgot Ruby's name a solid 10 times, I loved her character. She's definitely not what you expected and there's more to her than meets the eye.
Look, I'm trash for a strong intimidating warrior who trains our main female character. That is the type of guys I love in books and I'm not afraid to admit it. Arcus was the embodiment of everything I love in a male main character. He's a guarded powerful warrior with a dark and twisted path who would die for Ruby and if that doesn't make you weak at the knees, I don't know what does. He's a precious cinnamon roll and I basically spent the entire book squealing about my love for him.
It's discovered early on that Arcus has some pretty serious scars and he hides his face almost entirely by a cloak for a large portion of this book. When his face is finally 'revealed' we find out that his face is covered in burn marks.
"What are you hiding?"
"I'm hiding nothing. I only cover what people don't wish to see."
I feel like Arcus' comments about his scars were so raw and real and I was honestly so broken every time he mentioned about how self conscious they made him. He's honestly such a precious baby and I will protect him with my life. Arcus deserves the world and I will attack those who take it away from him.
Arcus and Ruby's relationship melts my heart and I need more. Book 2 blurb hints at a love triangle emerging and honestly if anything happens to this ship I will scream.
"My bundle of firewood," he said softly. "It's good to have you in my arms again."
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