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The Snow Queen: The Complete Saga: Books 1-3: Heart of Ice, Sacrifice, and Snowflakes
Read all three books in the complete Snow Queen series: Heart of Ice, Sacrifice, and Snowflakes in this special collection.
Rakel is a princess who should have been queen.
Instead, as a despised magic user she has spent most of her life exiled on a barren mountain, alone in her ice-castle. She longs for acceptance but lives with the constant fear that her brother, the King, will order her execution.
Her empty life changes forever when an army of magic users invade her home country. Their powerful leader is known for his cruelty and darkness, but one of his colonels is different.
When Colonel Farrin Graydim meets Rakel he is immediately intrigued by her. Her harsh rejection of an offer to join their cause only deepens his interest. He admires her unflinching strength, but his bloody past makes him utterly unworthy to stand beside the purity of her ice and snow.
But Rakel refuses to watch as the people who’ve scorned her are attacked, imprisoned, and even killed by the invading army. Swallowing her fear, she joins forces with her jailers and uses her magic in a way she never anticipated: on the battlefield.
Can Rakel defeat the invasion and free not only her people, but Farrin as well? For if she cannot defend her homeland, all will be lost.
THE SNOW QUEEN series is an Epic Fantasy Romance filled with magic, unexpected friendships, and fights for survival. If you love strong female leads, captivating magic, and humorous stories, you'll love The Snow Queen series. Buy the complete collection today!
Rakel is a princess who should have been queen.
Instead, as a despised magic user she has spent most of her life exiled on a barren mountain, alone in her ice-castle. She longs for acceptance but lives with the constant fear that her brother, the King, will order her execution.
Her empty life changes forever when an army of magic users invade her home country. Their powerful leader is known for his cruelty and darkness, but one of his colonels is different.
When Colonel Farrin Graydim meets Rakel he is immediately intrigued by her. Her harsh rejection of an offer to join their cause only deepens his interest. He admires her unflinching strength, but his bloody past makes him utterly unworthy to stand beside the purity of her ice and snow.
But Rakel refuses to watch as the people who’ve scorned her are attacked, imprisoned, and even killed by the invading army. Swallowing her fear, she joins forces with her jailers and uses her magic in a way she never anticipated: on the battlefield.
Can Rakel defeat the invasion and free not only her people, but Farrin as well? For if she cannot defend her homeland, all will be lost.
THE SNOW QUEEN series is an Epic Fantasy Romance filled with magic, unexpected friendships, and fights for survival. If you love strong female leads, captivating magic, and humorous stories, you'll love The Snow Queen series. Buy the complete collection today!
572 pages, Paperback
Published January 24, 2019
1516 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Shea
121 books4,815 followersMy pen name is K. M. Shea, but my readers—I prefer to call them Champions—call me Kitty.
I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
VISIT MY FACEBOOK GROUP
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VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...
VISIT MY WEBSITE
https://kmshea.com/
I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
VISIT MY FACEBOOK GROUP
https://www.facebook.com/groups/27090...
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...
VISIT MY WEBSITE
https://kmshea.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
March 15, 2020
Amazing
Loved this entire series, including bonus stories. Highly entertaining and a different spin on the Hans Christian Andersen's tale.
I recommend!
Loved this entire series, including bonus stories. Highly entertaining and a different spin on the Hans Christian Andersen's tale.
I recommend!
August 28, 2022
4.5 stars // read August 2022
RTC shortly ☺️
RTC shortly ☺️
October 29, 2021
Best Retelling Ever!!
This series has been my favorite of KM Shea’s books for a long time now. I do with the cover was different, but the content is amazing. Farrin is up there in my top five swoony heroes. So good!
This series has been my favorite of KM Shea’s books for a long time now. I do with the cover was different, but the content is amazing. Farrin is up there in my top five swoony heroes. So good!
Read
June 18, 2024DNF at 22%.
I REALLY wanted to like this. I love the Snow Queen tale and I had high hopes. But the characters were tragically basic and boring. And there wasn’t enough about them that interested me to hold me in the story and make me care about what I was reading.
I REALLY wanted to like this. I love the Snow Queen tale and I had high hopes. But the characters were tragically basic and boring. And there wasn’t enough about them that interested me to hold me in the story and make me care about what I was reading.
January 19, 2024
Amazing!
What an intense and amazing story!
I loved following Rakels journey so much. She was so strong and never lost sight of who she truly was.
I loved her relationship with Farrin and all the others.
Definitely a must read!
What an intense and amazing story!
I loved following Rakels journey so much. She was so strong and never lost sight of who she truly was.
I loved her relationship with Farrin and all the others.
Definitely a must read!
July 20, 2022
RTC but I am HOOKED on K.M. Shea now. And I am left wondering why I’ve never read a book by her before.
December 14, 2025
I loved this series so much. Rakel was such a good heroine and I loved the character development of Farin. Since I have read the Timeless Fairytales, I loved getting insight into how the Chosen was formed. The way the story was developed gripped you and the characters in the book were relatable as well. Overall, awesome book!
November 15, 2022
A fun, clean fairy tale retelling! Best listened to, I think, rather than read.
I don't know the actual Hans Christian Anderson version of the Snow Queen; all I know is "Frozen." This duology (it's two novels and one set of short stories, which I didn't read) is similar to "Frozen" in feel but completely different in plot. The Snow Queen is actually Princess Rakel, who was (as in "Frozen") banished because she was feared for her magic. She did build an ice palace, and finally was enticed to use her power on behalf of her people to help them expel an existential threat. She meets her cast of colorful characters -- her exuberant and flirtatious best friend Phile (who takes the place of her sister Anna), the various men of her military, and then the even more powerful enemy warrior, Farrin Graydim (good name!) who turns out to be the love interest.
Somehow I didn't feel compelled to attend to the details of the story too closely, I just kind of got an overview of the overall feel of the story. It was sort of like putting on a movie I've seen a hundred times as background noise. I got the general gist that Rakel was misunderstood but had a heart of gold, and lowered her defenses quickly at the first sign of affection from anyone around her. The people always adored her. I wasn't terribly clear on who was attacking her city or why, only that she had to defend them, the bad guy was nasty but he'd lured Farrin to his side because Farrin had a rough past. But Farrin was so clearly in love with Rakel that it didn't take much for him to switch sides, if only she convinced him that she wanted him to, and that she forgave his past misdeeds.
I wasn't into the story enough to make me want to listen to all the short stories afterwards, but it was a fluffy, feel-good listen.
I don't know the actual Hans Christian Anderson version of the Snow Queen; all I know is "Frozen." This duology (it's two novels and one set of short stories, which I didn't read) is similar to "Frozen" in feel but completely different in plot. The Snow Queen is actually Princess Rakel, who was (as in "Frozen") banished because she was feared for her magic. She did build an ice palace, and finally was enticed to use her power on behalf of her people to help them expel an existential threat. She meets her cast of colorful characters -- her exuberant and flirtatious best friend Phile (who takes the place of her sister Anna), the various men of her military, and then the even more powerful enemy warrior, Farrin Graydim (good name!) who turns out to be the love interest.
Somehow I didn't feel compelled to attend to the details of the story too closely, I just kind of got an overview of the overall feel of the story. It was sort of like putting on a movie I've seen a hundred times as background noise. I got the general gist that Rakel was misunderstood but had a heart of gold, and lowered her defenses quickly at the first sign of affection from anyone around her. The people always adored her. I wasn't terribly clear on who was attacking her city or why, only that she had to defend them, the bad guy was nasty but he'd lured Farrin to his side because Farrin had a rough past. But Farrin was so clearly in love with Rakel that it didn't take much for him to switch sides, if only she convinced him that she wanted him to, and that she forgave his past misdeeds.
I wasn't into the story enough to make me want to listen to all the short stories afterwards, but it was a fluffy, feel-good listen.
September 12, 2025
wonderful YA fantasy epic
Rating: 4.5✨⭐️
I love being able to read completely through an entire series without stopping, binging to my heart’s content, in these series collections.
K.M. Shea is a must read author for me, especially any series in her Magiford Supernatural City Universe. Those are favorites of mine.
The Snow Queen is a wonderful series, one that is considered YA in its appeal and approach to storytelling. It’s sweeping, epic fantasy reading, the heroine is a magical snow princess who’s been locked away in a tower for most of her life, regarded as a monster simply because of her powers.
Yet, she finds a way to forgive, learn to accept and love her people as well as her powers. And she ends up saving them all. While fighting and finding a HEA love.
No spice. A kiss on the cheek or forehead. Terrific battle scenes with magical powers. It’s also found family and an absolutely wonderful enemies to lovers innocent relationship.
As an adult, it’s harder for me to accept the premise that the years of isolation and lack of contact, let alone the constant abuse and hostility didn’t make more of a emotional impact on her. That seems unlikely.
But as YA fantasy fiction? Its great because Shea doesn’t craft a character that’s one dimensional. She’s lacking in the ability to read social interactions and is reserved around others. That gives her credibility. And makes her relatable.
There’s times when I wish it read less “told to” and more direct interactions. But it’s a wonderful story and I read it right through.
A younger reader will be captivated. And it’s a great introduction to this marvelous writer. A real winner.
Contains the following stories:
👁️🗨️Heart of Ice
👁️🗨️Sacrifice
👁️🗨️Snowflakes: A collection of Snow Queen short stories
Cover Art by Deranged Doctor Design
Rating: 4.5✨⭐️
I love being able to read completely through an entire series without stopping, binging to my heart’s content, in these series collections.
K.M. Shea is a must read author for me, especially any series in her Magiford Supernatural City Universe. Those are favorites of mine.
The Snow Queen is a wonderful series, one that is considered YA in its appeal and approach to storytelling. It’s sweeping, epic fantasy reading, the heroine is a magical snow princess who’s been locked away in a tower for most of her life, regarded as a monster simply because of her powers.
Yet, she finds a way to forgive, learn to accept and love her people as well as her powers. And she ends up saving them all. While fighting and finding a HEA love.
No spice. A kiss on the cheek or forehead. Terrific battle scenes with magical powers. It’s also found family and an absolutely wonderful enemies to lovers innocent relationship.
As an adult, it’s harder for me to accept the premise that the years of isolation and lack of contact, let alone the constant abuse and hostility didn’t make more of a emotional impact on her. That seems unlikely.
But as YA fantasy fiction? Its great because Shea doesn’t craft a character that’s one dimensional. She’s lacking in the ability to read social interactions and is reserved around others. That gives her credibility. And makes her relatable.
There’s times when I wish it read less “told to” and more direct interactions. But it’s a wonderful story and I read it right through.
A younger reader will be captivated. And it’s a great introduction to this marvelous writer. A real winner.
Contains the following stories:
👁️🗨️Heart of Ice
👁️🗨️Sacrifice
👁️🗨️Snowflakes: A collection of Snow Queen short stories
Cover Art by Deranged Doctor Design
July 5, 2019
I've been waiting for a complete omnibus of the Snow Queen's story to be released so that I could consume it all at once. I knew tidbits of her story because she's mentioned with some frequency in K.M. Shea's other two series Timeless Fairy Tales and The Fairy Tale Enchantress, which are set in the same universe but several centuries later, but since it looks like elements of her story are going to have major bearing on where the latter series is going I figured I'd better get caught up.
Not much of the original fairy tale remains. This Snow Queen's plot is almost entirely original, and seems to have been influenced more by the movie Frozen than the Hans Christian Anderson tale (though Shea draws several side characters from the original: Gerta, Kai, the Robber Maiden, and the reindeer, so she hasn't ignored it entirely). Princess Rakel is a prisoner, kept on an isolated mountain for the crime of possessing magic, which in this time period is feared and hated throughout the continent. Rakel has more magic than anyone has ever seen or heard of, so she could escape easily in theory, but her gentle nature means that the last thing she wants to do is hurt anyone. She would rather use her ice magic for beautiful and practical things. So she remains in exile until her country is invaded by an army of magic users, and she has to choose: does she side with the people who have despised her all her life, or the people who murder innocents with impunity?
Rakel's choices, little though she is aware of it, will impact the entire continent for centuries to come and make her and those around her into legends.
Some of my favorite things in this omnibus did come from the short story anthology in the end, which mostly consists of scenes Shea was forced to cut for length and flow. In order to fully appreciate them you do have to have read Rakel's entire story.
Not much of the original fairy tale remains. This Snow Queen's plot is almost entirely original, and seems to have been influenced more by the movie Frozen than the Hans Christian Anderson tale (though Shea draws several side characters from the original: Gerta, Kai, the Robber Maiden, and the reindeer, so she hasn't ignored it entirely). Princess Rakel is a prisoner, kept on an isolated mountain for the crime of possessing magic, which in this time period is feared and hated throughout the continent. Rakel has more magic than anyone has ever seen or heard of, so she could escape easily in theory, but her gentle nature means that the last thing she wants to do is hurt anyone. She would rather use her ice magic for beautiful and practical things. So she remains in exile until her country is invaded by an army of magic users, and she has to choose: does she side with the people who have despised her all her life, or the people who murder innocents with impunity?
Rakel's choices, little though she is aware of it, will impact the entire continent for centuries to come and make her and those around her into legends.
Some of my favorite things in this omnibus did come from the short story anthology in the end, which mostly consists of scenes Shea was forced to cut for length and flow. In order to fully appreciate them you do have to have read Rakel's entire story.
February 7, 2019
Absolutely loved it. Tangled has nothing on this book!
When her magic manifests at the young age of 3, Princess Rakel is exiled by her family, first to a tower away from the castle and then later to the barren northern region of her country where she lives isolated other than a few guardsmen and her "caretaker", the kindly Oskar.
Never having known a normal childhood or life, Rakel's one wish is to not be looked upon with hatred and revulsion as a monster. In her solitude, she finds joy in her magic in building her own ice castle and beautiful ice sculptures and a library (!!) that is kept well stocked and where she picks up architecture and learns the topography of her country. When her country is invaded by an evil magic user and his armies of both magic users and 'normals', Rakel finds that she cannot abandon her people.
A classic tale of good vs evil, this book was simply amazingly good. I totally adore Rakel & Farrin. Adversaries, Farrin even before he meets Rakel has already been quite taken with the beauty of her magical signature - one of purity "the minty flavour of her magic".
I would label this story as romantic fantasy rather than fantasy romance, even though there more than enough romance to satisfy the romance diehards (of which I confess to be one). & yes I did go back and re-read the "good parts". I love this author's style. The romance is woven beautifully into the overall storyline - which has just about everything. Action (think The Hobbit and battle of the 5 armies but better), a fantastic cast of characters, humour and tender emotion. Clean and a very sweet and poignant romance.
A definite keeper. Highly recommended.
When her magic manifests at the young age of 3, Princess Rakel is exiled by her family, first to a tower away from the castle and then later to the barren northern region of her country where she lives isolated other than a few guardsmen and her "caretaker", the kindly Oskar.
Never having known a normal childhood or life, Rakel's one wish is to not be looked upon with hatred and revulsion as a monster. In her solitude, she finds joy in her magic in building her own ice castle and beautiful ice sculptures and a library (!!) that is kept well stocked and where she picks up architecture and learns the topography of her country. When her country is invaded by an evil magic user and his armies of both magic users and 'normals', Rakel finds that she cannot abandon her people.
A classic tale of good vs evil, this book was simply amazingly good. I totally adore Rakel & Farrin. Adversaries, Farrin even before he meets Rakel has already been quite taken with the beauty of her magical signature - one of purity "the minty flavour of her magic".
I would label this story as romantic fantasy rather than fantasy romance, even though there more than enough romance to satisfy the romance diehards (of which I confess to be one). & yes I did go back and re-read the "good parts". I love this author's style. The romance is woven beautifully into the overall storyline - which has just about everything. Action (think The Hobbit and battle of the 5 armies but better), a fantastic cast of characters, humour and tender emotion. Clean and a very sweet and poignant romance.
A definite keeper. Highly recommended.
January 27, 2021
One of my new all time favorites!
These books have everything I was searching for in a fantasy world. I had been in a book drought for a bit, since I am very picky about my books.
After awhile most other books all begin to sound the same. It gets more frustrating than enjoyable.
I love how K. M. Shea writes and develops her characters. Not once did I feel they acted out of character; they all acted logically and had maturity (when the character should).
I really dislike irrational characters who act smart for the first half of the book, then they do something completely stupid and out of character, just because it makes it easy for the plot.
With the main character you feel and understand her fears and you watch her grow above and beyond. She feels REAL. Most characters do, and some have very dark backgrounds but they don't let it rule them once they find the proper support system in friends and family.
These books had me smiling, laughing, crying, and grinning. Then crying again because I ran out of this beautiful book, but the ending was very well done. HEA.
Although I don't mind a not clean book...wink wink...this book is very clean; only has hugging and some kissing.
The third book is mainly composed of short stories from characters in the first two. Some give more to what happens after the ending, some answer a couple unanswered questions, and some are perspectives of before the book begins. Not sure why some were not in the actual books, but a few I understand wouldn't have meshed well with the main format. I treasured them because some felt like I was hearing from old friends again.
10/10 would recommend.
These books have everything I was searching for in a fantasy world. I had been in a book drought for a bit, since I am very picky about my books.
After awhile most other books all begin to sound the same. It gets more frustrating than enjoyable.
I love how K. M. Shea writes and develops her characters. Not once did I feel they acted out of character; they all acted logically and had maturity (when the character should).
I really dislike irrational characters who act smart for the first half of the book, then they do something completely stupid and out of character, just because it makes it easy for the plot.
With the main character you feel and understand her fears and you watch her grow above and beyond. She feels REAL. Most characters do, and some have very dark backgrounds but they don't let it rule them once they find the proper support system in friends and family.
These books had me smiling, laughing, crying, and grinning. Then crying again because I ran out of this beautiful book, but the ending was very well done. HEA.
Although I don't mind a not clean book...wink wink...this book is very clean; only has hugging and some kissing.
The third book is mainly composed of short stories from characters in the first two. Some give more to what happens after the ending, some answer a couple unanswered questions, and some are perspectives of before the book begins. Not sure why some were not in the actual books, but a few I understand wouldn't have meshed well with the main format. I treasured them because some felt like I was hearing from old friends again.
10/10 would recommend.
February 18, 2023
Rakel has the misfortune to be born into a land that fears and vilifies magic. Despite being a royal princess, she is locked alone in a tower as a child, and eventually exiled to the far edge of the kingdom, where she uses her magic to build the ice castle she calls home. When the kingdom comes calling for her help to defeat magic-using invaders, why should she help them?
Disarmed by two children who have no fear of her, and Oskar, the servant who has served her faithfully, she agrees to try. Fearful for her life much of the time, she must navigate enemies both in front and behind her, gradually gathering a cohort of supporters that strangely includes one of the enemy generals.
This is an unusual tale, even for one with its origins in a fairy tale. Rakel is beautifully drawn, both her fears and her powers, and especially her innate goodness. Her companions are also well developed, particularly Phile the Robber Maiden, who brings humour to an otherwise relentless story of war. I liked that Rakel’s power, which originally seemed to be limitless and unassailable, turned out to have a price that both moves the book along, and brings it to its ultimate climax. The romance is gentle and sweet, and redemptive for both parties.
I was surprised when the story ended after 2 books, seeing as there were 3 in the bundle. I believe the third is a collection of short stories featuring Rakel, but I decided not to read it. This was a story I enjoyed, but not enough to want to read more.
Disarmed by two children who have no fear of her, and Oskar, the servant who has served her faithfully, she agrees to try. Fearful for her life much of the time, she must navigate enemies both in front and behind her, gradually gathering a cohort of supporters that strangely includes one of the enemy generals.
This is an unusual tale, even for one with its origins in a fairy tale. Rakel is beautifully drawn, both her fears and her powers, and especially her innate goodness. Her companions are also well developed, particularly Phile the Robber Maiden, who brings humour to an otherwise relentless story of war. I liked that Rakel’s power, which originally seemed to be limitless and unassailable, turned out to have a price that both moves the book along, and brings it to its ultimate climax. The romance is gentle and sweet, and redemptive for both parties.
I was surprised when the story ended after 2 books, seeing as there were 3 in the bundle. I believe the third is a collection of short stories featuring Rakel, but I decided not to read it. This was a story I enjoyed, but not enough to want to read more.
September 26, 2022
Such a Good Book!!!
I have loved K.M. Shea’s retellings for years, and this collection is a perfect example of the whys!!! The Snow Queen saga follows the arc of a wonderful strong woman named Raquel.
Whereas other modern tales try to set up a strong heroine by making her seem callous and impervious to harm (or able to exact revenge when harmed), Raquel blasts those notions out of the water by showing that kindness, forgiveness, and goodness are key strengths of a strong woman. I myself have struggled with these things from time-to-time, so it is so encouraging to see a character struggle with them but choose the right thing, even when it is difficult.
A short summary of other qualities I love about this book:
- A sweet clean romance you could let your ten-year old read
- Funny and relatable characters
- Good morals that are integrated smoothly in the storyline
- Abuse is condemned instead of seen as romantic or acceptable (I think there was only one instance of abuse, and it was the main villain inflicting pain on another character)
*I paid for this copy with my own money because it is that good, so if you’re even considering it, I totally recommend this book! You are not likely to regret it if you Iike the kind of stuff I mentioned above!!! It’s even better than Disney’s Frozen, in my opinion!!!
I have loved K.M. Shea’s retellings for years, and this collection is a perfect example of the whys!!! The Snow Queen saga follows the arc of a wonderful strong woman named Raquel.
Whereas other modern tales try to set up a strong heroine by making her seem callous and impervious to harm (or able to exact revenge when harmed), Raquel blasts those notions out of the water by showing that kindness, forgiveness, and goodness are key strengths of a strong woman. I myself have struggled with these things from time-to-time, so it is so encouraging to see a character struggle with them but choose the right thing, even when it is difficult.
A short summary of other qualities I love about this book:
- A sweet clean romance you could let your ten-year old read
- Funny and relatable characters
- Good morals that are integrated smoothly in the storyline
- Abuse is condemned instead of seen as romantic or acceptable (I think there was only one instance of abuse, and it was the main villain inflicting pain on another character)
*I paid for this copy with my own money because it is that good, so if you’re even considering it, I totally recommend this book! You are not likely to regret it if you Iike the kind of stuff I mentioned above!!! It’s even better than Disney’s Frozen, in my opinion!!!
August 22, 2022
I enjoyed this series. There were lots of fun characters. Several of them endearing. Good character growth for a few. I found the overall story interesting and I had a hard time putting it down. Some twists I didn't see. The ending stressed me out, but it ended happy, which I appreciated. It made the climax more meaningful to me. The short stories in part three of the book were really fun to read. A couple of them had some really sad parts, but overall they were so fun to dive back into the world and characters. I especially loved the one about the Rumpelstiltskin characters and getting to see the legacy of the snow queen from the future perspective. And the Forgiveness story were really sweet. I loved the relationship between the two main siblings. Overall an enjoyable, well-written read. I recommend it.
Clean.
Language/profanity: none, but does mention characters cursing, but not actual words.
Sex/innuendo: Sweet kisses, several background romances, all clean
Gore/Violence: Several fight scenes. They are mild, but there are details of war battles, raids, deaths, etc. There is some abuse of characters, mild.
Dark/Creepy: some abuse, mild. A couple of scenes with characters surrounding children with weapons. Mild, but sad.
Clean.
Language/profanity: none, but does mention characters cursing, but not actual words.
Sex/innuendo: Sweet kisses, several background romances, all clean
Gore/Violence: Several fight scenes. They are mild, but there are details of war battles, raids, deaths, etc. There is some abuse of characters, mild.
Dark/Creepy: some abuse, mild. A couple of scenes with characters surrounding children with weapons. Mild, but sad.
December 12, 2023
*No Spoilers* The Complete Saga Books 1 -3, Fairy Tale Retelling, Fantasy, Clean Romance,
I read a lot of Dark Romance and sometimes need a Fade to Black or light, humorous book as a palate cleanser before diving back in again.
The blurb drew me in as did the gorgeous Cover Art, just look at those wolves and being the complete works is a huge bonus as I am not known for my patience.
It's a quick read, could see a lot of similarities to Frozen and I did appreciate the humour.
The writing style is not deep enough for me and I had a few issues connecting with the characters and events. I never quite lost myself in the reading which is a shame.
Book 3 is slightly different which adds a little zing and I can see that appealing.
I am not a Frozen fan so unfair for me to really review I think further as for every book there is a reader and I think this will be vastly popular.
I can see the target readers as being young adult and I would have no hesitation in recommending this collection to my friends daughters, nieces or indeed my own Granddaughters when they are older.
I read a lot of Dark Romance and sometimes need a Fade to Black or light, humorous book as a palate cleanser before diving back in again.
The blurb drew me in as did the gorgeous Cover Art, just look at those wolves and being the complete works is a huge bonus as I am not known for my patience.
It's a quick read, could see a lot of similarities to Frozen and I did appreciate the humour.
The writing style is not deep enough for me and I had a few issues connecting with the characters and events. I never quite lost myself in the reading which is a shame.
Book 3 is slightly different which adds a little zing and I can see that appealing.
I am not a Frozen fan so unfair for me to really review I think further as for every book there is a reader and I think this will be vastly popular.
I can see the target readers as being young adult and I would have no hesitation in recommending this collection to my friends daughters, nieces or indeed my own Granddaughters when they are older.
July 6, 2025
I really enjoyed this book which I read packaged as books 1-3. It’s a story of a young princess who is born with magical abilities which involve her ability to create anything and do anything with snow and ice. Her parents, the people, everybody is afraid of her or of anyone who has any magical powers. So she is sent away and isolated starting when she is just a child. She is well cared for in a palace of ice that she has created, but she is alone. The only thing she wants is for people to like her.
The book pulls at your emotions as she is drawn back into the kingdom when a magic wielder who is bent on conquering and enslaving all non-magic people attacks her country. She steps up and defends it even though the people are still afraid of her. But that changes as a wonderful bundle of characters come into the story and create truly beautiful bonding of people coming together as one to defeat evil.
It has a big build up to an ending and a wonderful love story. Again, I enjoyed this three book bundle very much. If I had anything bad to say about it, it is only that I thought the ending was a little weak, but it does not take away from the joy of the stories conclusion.
The book pulls at your emotions as she is drawn back into the kingdom when a magic wielder who is bent on conquering and enslaving all non-magic people attacks her country. She steps up and defends it even though the people are still afraid of her. But that changes as a wonderful bundle of characters come into the story and create truly beautiful bonding of people coming together as one to defeat evil.
It has a big build up to an ending and a wonderful love story. Again, I enjoyed this three book bundle very much. If I had anything bad to say about it, it is only that I thought the ending was a little weak, but it does not take away from the joy of the stories conclusion.
June 13, 2024
Another lovely series of coming into yourself and becoming more than you could have ever imagined. This is a retelling of the Snow Queen, familiar to those of us who watched the Shelly Duvall special as a kid, and newer youngsters who love Frozen. The first book has a lovely blossoming character and romance. Then it just ends. Not the romance exactly, but the Will-they or Won't-they energy, and therefore almost their entire lives. I wish there was spice in this book. The most that happens is they kiss, and while satisfying, I would have appreciated more tension.
But I really enjoyed the FMC figuring out how to fight, both physically and mentally, and to have her learn mechanics/tactics. I love the side characters so so much, and I wish there was more to read in this era; really do recommend this book. It's excellent, the two book trilogy and a third book of short stories. You won't regret it.
But I really enjoyed the FMC figuring out how to fight, both physically and mentally, and to have her learn mechanics/tactics. I love the side characters so so much, and I wish there was more to read in this era; really do recommend this book. It's excellent, the two book trilogy and a third book of short stories. You won't regret it.
August 29, 2022
This is actually one of the most incredible works of literature I have ever read. The story was incredibly well crafted, the character development was amazing, and the romance was beautiful. I fell in love with Rakel and loved every minute of her journey. The way she grew as a character was so masterfully done. We are given an insight into her journey through her actions, but her thoughts make the story feel more intimate in the best way. You feel as though you are experiencing everything alongside Rakel. The glimpses into Farrin's mind and thoughts were so fun to read! I also fell in love with every single one of the side characters. They really made the story. This work of art had everything I could ever want in a fantasy book! I can't properly put it into words, this story is soooo good!!!
March 17, 2022
A Queen for all Seasons
This series took awhile to get into but I sm glad I persisted with the books. The Snow vQueen was too perfect really never seeking vengeance or retribution for her mistreatment all her life. Only a saint would be so forgiving really but if you can look pas that Fairytale image then you Rmare captivated by all the people who end up falling in love with her . Greta and Kai the village children who were never afraid of her magic, Oskar her faithful servant, Phile the Robber Maiden, Halvor who leads her into battle fearlessly time and time again. The journey from feared magic user locked in a tower to beloved Snow Queen is an interesting journey packed with adventure and heartfelt stories.
This series took awhile to get into but I sm glad I persisted with the books. The Snow vQueen was too perfect really never seeking vengeance or retribution for her mistreatment all her life. Only a saint would be so forgiving really but if you can look pas that Fairytale image then you Rmare captivated by all the people who end up falling in love with her . Greta and Kai the village children who were never afraid of her magic, Oskar her faithful servant, Phile the Robber Maiden, Halvor who leads her into battle fearlessly time and time again. The journey from feared magic user locked in a tower to beloved Snow Queen is an interesting journey packed with adventure and heartfelt stories.
July 20, 2023
DNF. Stopped at 14%. It had very little depth. Little flow from scene to scene and the storyline was just oddly done. Nothing felt organic. It’s like a play that just closes on one scene and the opens on another and the audience is just supposed to go with it.
I was surprised that this book, up to this point, and I assume throughout most of the series, is about war. Which is so very boring to me that I couldn’t stop yawning.
I also felt the characters were thinly drawn. We didn’t get much depth, even of Rakel, despite being in her head.
I suppose if one thinks of fairytales, you could say it is ‘tell, not show.’ And so as a fairytale retelling, maybe this is just following in that vein.
I was surprised that this book, up to this point, and I assume throughout most of the series, is about war. Which is so very boring to me that I couldn’t stop yawning.
I also felt the characters were thinly drawn. We didn’t get much depth, even of Rakel, despite being in her head.
I suppose if one thinks of fairytales, you could say it is ‘tell, not show.’ And so as a fairytale retelling, maybe this is just following in that vein.
March 2, 2019
I was over half way through KM Shea's Timeless Fairy Tales when references to the Snow Queen induced me to go to this box set instead of on to the next Timeless Fairy tale. The Snow Queen's saga actually sets the background for the Timeless series. Good story telling, interesting characters, and as is usual with KM Shea books, well-written and well edited. I would have enjoyed a third book that wrapped up some of the stories of the supporting characters, but the short stories she includes at the end of the book helps quite a bit with that. You don't have to read this series first to enjoy the Timeless Fairy Tales series, but it will add to your enjoyment.
August 29, 2019
I started reading these before I read any of the other timeless fairy tales after coming across the Enchantress in Training series. I have only given these books 4 stars because although I did really enjoy the storyline and I'm sure I will understand alot more once I've read the Timeless Fairytale Collection, however this was as times a little hard to read with all the battle planning and strategy, not really my cup of tea! Absolutely loved the storyline and relationships between Rakel and Phile, Farrin and Steiner. Really enjoyed the behind the scene chapters that didn't make it into the book! Overall a very good read.
July 4, 2024
At first I was annoyed that the snow Queen was cold and distant. Eventually, the rest of the story made sense and why she was the way that she was. I do feel like she made up with her brother way too quickly, but I’m glad that the author gave him a sweeter temperament towards the Snow Queen. There was bits and pieces of the love story but not much I felt like there could’ve been more. The story is so much different from Shea’s normal writing, but I loved all her other books. I’m not sure I will read this series. I did enjoy it. This book took a lot to write with all the fighting in the magical abilities and throwing ice, etc. etc.. There was no cursing and only a couple kisses. Very clean.
January 24, 2026
LOVED EVERY SINGLE PAGE! K.M. Shea writes beautifully- every character is well thought out, and she can write a wonderful romance without spice. (Thank the Lord!) I read this after reading all 11 of the fairytale retellings and the enchantress books (the first four that have been released). They are all interconnected in some way, and masterfully so- I never found a single slip up.
If I were to recommend a reading order for her books, I’d say to start with the fairytale retellings, then snow queen saga, and then finish with the enchantress books. I won’t say why, but if you do it it’ll make sense ;)
If I were to recommend a reading order for her books, I’d say to start with the fairytale retellings, then snow queen saga, and then finish with the enchantress books. I won’t say why, but if you do it it’ll make sense ;)
November 21, 2018
I love this series. Sweet & clean adventure & love story
I like most all of K M Shea's work. But the snow queen books are the ones I've re read the MOST, because they are just that amazing.
I love the storyline, and character archs (Raquel&Farin in particular). I think the sweet & clean romance is done so well, especially as it develops over two books so you can see it unfold.
This series is the prequel series to the timeless fairy tale series. And it is needed to fully enjoy the timeless fairytales.
The boxset is two novels and a large collection of short stories.
I like most all of K M Shea's work. But the snow queen books are the ones I've re read the MOST, because they are just that amazing.
I love the storyline, and character archs (Raquel&Farin in particular). I think the sweet & clean romance is done so well, especially as it develops over two books so you can see it unfold.
This series is the prequel series to the timeless fairy tale series. And it is needed to fully enjoy the timeless fairytales.
The boxset is two novels and a large collection of short stories.
February 13, 2019
K.M. Shea rocks this story. I'm so glad that this was bundled up. I could continue reading without having to stop. Shea takes this timeless classic and gives it a richness like never before. The world building is detailed and full. The characters wiggle their way into your heart. They are unique, quirky, and endearing. It's really a duology carrying the main story with the third book filled with shorts about some of the characters that you meet. It gives you a more in depth peek into their characters that open the eyes to the whys of some things. I would recommend this and all of Shea's books. I haven't been disappointed yet.
September 4, 2020
This book surprised me! A lot actually! The characters were surprisingly deep and pulled on my heart strings with every page. I loved Rakel and her journey. More importantly I loved seeing her interactions with other characters! The end of the book has a series of short stories that give deeper insight (some take place before, after or parallel to the events of the first and second books) and are from different points of view! They are soooo good but read them last because they have lots of spoilers!
August 10, 2022
Not the FROZEN you Know
This collection earns 3.5 stars from me.
I liked the main character, and her struggles rang true and resonated with me. The story held my interest, and I enjoyed seeing the various magic users in action.
But the tale doesn’t have a true romance. And it isn’t really three books. It is a duology that tells the Snow Queen’s story and a collection of short stories that don’t expand the story to give us the romantic payoff we wanted: a wedding between Farrin and the Princess.
This collection earns 3.5 stars from me.
I liked the main character, and her struggles rang true and resonated with me. The story held my interest, and I enjoyed seeing the various magic users in action.
But the tale doesn’t have a true romance. And it isn’t really three books. It is a duology that tells the Snow Queen’s story and a collection of short stories that don’t expand the story to give us the romantic payoff we wanted: a wedding between Farrin and the Princess.
November 18, 2022
Great trilogy
I loved these books, Rakel, Oskar, farrin, Phille were amazing characters. I loved reading all about them. Even the bad guys were great to read about. I was transported to all the places in this book, it was like I could see the palace on Epson peak, see the villages,
like Vargis, see the characters in the villages. The Snow Queen was fantastic, I wanted to take the young Princess Rakel and hug her, but hit others over the head. I was sad to come to the end of this saga as I enjoyed it so much. A lot of fun, I was laughing, crying and jumping for joy.
I loved these books, Rakel, Oskar, farrin, Phille were amazing characters. I loved reading all about them. Even the bad guys were great to read about. I was transported to all the places in this book, it was like I could see the palace on Epson peak, see the villages,
like Vargis, see the characters in the villages. The Snow Queen was fantastic, I wanted to take the young Princess Rakel and hug her, but hit others over the head. I was sad to come to the end of this saga as I enjoyed it so much. A lot of fun, I was laughing, crying and jumping for joy.
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