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Ice and Iron #1
Dreams of Ice and Iron
Locked inside an iron mask by the King of the Fey, Sable Erwyn Sylvana has waited ten years for freedom—and to take revenge on those who cursed her. But with every second that passes inside the mask, her soul begins to fade farther away. The memories of her loved ones and her former life become a blur, and soon she cannot even remember her own name.
As the princess, Avalon Edenstone knows how important it is to obey her father, the King of the Fey. So when she finds a mask while wandering the catacombs beneath the House of Ice, she knows exactly how much trouble she would be in if she took it—never mind agreeing to free the mysterious warrior whose soul is trapped inside it. But Avalon is more than familiar with how it feels to be trapped, so she doesn’t hesitate to help the warrior whose thoughts begin to accompany her own—and who has an uncanny ability to save her from danger precisely when she needs it.
With the help—and muscle—of Hadrian Courts, the Captain of the Guard, Avalon travels land and sea, collecting seven magical jewels that have the power to undo Sable’s curse. But the king will stop at nothing to take back what was stolen from him through violence and vengeance. And as he closes in on them, Avalon discovers she is not only on the verge of losing her freedom, but also her life…as an ancient evil believed to be dead is stirring awake. One that could bring life as they know it to a sudden and terrifying end.
As the princess, Avalon Edenstone knows how important it is to obey her father, the King of the Fey. So when she finds a mask while wandering the catacombs beneath the House of Ice, she knows exactly how much trouble she would be in if she took it—never mind agreeing to free the mysterious warrior whose soul is trapped inside it. But Avalon is more than familiar with how it feels to be trapped, so she doesn’t hesitate to help the warrior whose thoughts begin to accompany her own—and who has an uncanny ability to save her from danger precisely when she needs it.
With the help—and muscle—of Hadrian Courts, the Captain of the Guard, Avalon travels land and sea, collecting seven magical jewels that have the power to undo Sable’s curse. But the king will stop at nothing to take back what was stolen from him through violence and vengeance. And as he closes in on them, Avalon discovers she is not only on the verge of losing her freedom, but also her life…as an ancient evil believed to be dead is stirring awake. One that could bring life as they know it to a sudden and terrifying end.
483 pages, Paperback
Published August 31, 2021
130 people are currently reading
3623 people want to read
About the author
Kayla Edwards
7 books2,864 followersKayla Edwards is the author of the new adult House of Devils series, including City of Gods and Monsters, City of Souls and Sinners, City of Lies and Legends, and City of Smoke and Brimstone. She also wrote the upper young adult romantasy novel Dreams of Ice and Iron. Her House of Devils series has been sold in six languages to date. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys traveling, spending time in nature, and binge-watching her favorite television shows with her husband. You can connect with her Facebook readers’ group Dare’s Devils or follow her on Instagram, BookTok, and Pinterest @KaylaEdwardsAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 20, 2021
Decir que me ha encantado es poco.
Me he visto atrapada desde el principio en las páginas de este libro. Atrapada por la historia, por todo el mundo creado por la autora donde las cosas se van entrelazando, por los maravillosos personajes que se han quedado un pedacito de mi corazón.
Me ha encantado todo y muero por disfrutar más de Nocturne y de The Wolf of Winter, aunque he disfrutado con cada uno de los personajes (me intriga mucho Levon). Todos tienen su nosequé, y las protagonistas femeninas me han encantado (a veces me cuesta lidiar con ellas).
La autora he comentado que aunque empieza como YA va a evolucionar a NA, tipo Throne of Glass (escenas hot se avecinan en los próximos libros, y bienvenidas sean).
Leedlo, en serio. Es una pasada.
Me he visto atrapada desde el principio en las páginas de este libro. Atrapada por la historia, por todo el mundo creado por la autora donde las cosas se van entrelazando, por los maravillosos personajes que se han quedado un pedacito de mi corazón.
Me ha encantado todo y muero por disfrutar más de Nocturne y de The Wolf of Winter, aunque he disfrutado con cada uno de los personajes (me intriga mucho Levon). Todos tienen su nosequé, y las protagonistas femeninas me han encantado (a veces me cuesta lidiar con ellas).
La autora he comentado que aunque empieza como YA va a evolucionar a NA, tipo Throne of Glass (escenas hot se avecinan en los próximos libros, y bienvenidas sean).
Leedlo, en serio. Es una pasada.
September 6, 2021
**Spoiler-free review**
This book was such a fun read. Its definitely one of those books that is hard to put down, there was always something happening on every page. Avalon was such a fun character and so headstrong! I loved that she didn't take $hit from anyone (even Mr. Grumpy-Pants Hadrian LoL).
And the chapters that were set in Sable's past were some of my faves to read (especially when she met the Wraith and saw that creature with the bone chariot... That was really neat and I can't wait to see more of the spirit creatures and the Celestial City in the sequel).
and KIT -- omg he was my FAAAAVE. He is such a cinnamon roll LOL. Can't wait to see more of him!!!!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes Game of Thrones, ACOTAR, and the Cruel Prince.
5/5
This book was such a fun read. Its definitely one of those books that is hard to put down, there was always something happening on every page. Avalon was such a fun character and so headstrong! I loved that she didn't take $hit from anyone (even Mr. Grumpy-Pants Hadrian LoL).
And the chapters that were set in Sable's past were some of my faves to read (especially when she met the Wraith and saw that creature with the bone chariot... That was really neat and I can't wait to see more of the spirit creatures and the Celestial City in the sequel).
and KIT -- omg he was my FAAAAVE. He is such a cinnamon roll LOL. Can't wait to see more of him!!!!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes Game of Thrones, ACOTAR, and the Cruel Prince.
5/5
December 19, 2021
I. Love. This. Book.
I want to say a huge thank you to the author Kayla Edwards for sending me a free copy in exchange for my honest review because WOW. If you are a fan of Sarah J. Maas and you enjoy books like Lord of the Rings, Throne of Glass, and ACOTAR, this is right up your alley.
This story is packed with some of my favorite things: high fantasy, intricate world building, dormant/hidden powers, god/goddess hierarchy in a mythical world, and an epic journey with a very unlikely hero (or should I say heroine).
The book largely follows 2 main characters: First, the mortal princess Avalon who is the only daughter of the once mortal king who has since transformed into a Fey known as the Dark Lord for his evil deeds and cold domination. Second is Nocturne, a shifter who watched her family be tortured and killed so that she could be taken and forced to train to be a member of the king’s Wolf Pack.
The Pack is a group of shifter wolves who, under the command of the king, track and hunt down others possessing powers (such as Nocturne), brutalizing and demolishing villages in the process. Nocturne has not accepted her “skin” yet which would allow her to shift, so she is known as the runt and pretty much the punching bag for the Pack. The only person who seems to have a soft spot for her is the general known as the Wolf of the North, one of the king’s highest ranking warriors. Named Kit, it is hinted he is the most powerful shifter and has not yet mated with his match as wolves can only mate with someone whose power matches their own. I’m hoping beyond hope that’s our girl Nocturne because their chemistry is electric and heartbreaking since a romance between them is obviously very forbidden.
Avalon, largely ignored by her father who is solely focused on winning the war he is currently waging on the world, takes to exploring the House of Ice after dark. There she follows a ghostly spirit who leads her into the catacombs under the House and to a mysterious iron mask. As the mask calls to her she puts it on her face and it adheres to her skin revealing a girl trapped inside it. With her father sending her away, she decides to take the mask with her, however once the king realizes the mask is gone he has Avalon and her guard Hadrian hunted down by his assassin know as the Wraith. And this is where our story explodes.
SO much happens in this book. At first you’re not entirely sure how Nocturne/Kit’s and Avalon/Hadrian’s stories relate, but as Avalon spends more time wearing the mask and interacting with its prisoner she comes to find out that the girl is the key to everything and that her name is Sable Erwyn Sylvana: a girl bestowed by Hillandria, the goddess of fire, with the rare ability to control fire. Though their parents were killed, Sable and her brother Killian were mercifully spared from execution by a guard not fulfilling his duty and then found themselves in the hands of friends who were able to disguise, protect, and raise them in secret. That is until the king finally discovered them, wiping Killian’s memories entirely and imprisoning Sable in the mask where she remembers nothing, hears nothing, and sees nothing…that is until Avalon wears the mask.
This book is every bit the epic adventure you want it to be. The romance is there, but it takes a back burner to the beautiful dynamic between Avalon and Sable as they unlock Sable’s memories and work quickly to collect the items needed to free Sable from the mask once and for all. There is also an amazing dynamic struck between 3 male characters (who I won’t mention because *spoilers*) who aid Avalon and Hadrian against all odds in hopes that freeing Sable will turn the tide in the war and defeat the Dark Lord once and for all.
I did take off a star solely because at times the knowledge you received felt more like a massive, super quick information dump. I liked the flashback and storytelling sequences much more since they seemed to progress the story more organically, but overall there was SO much information to take in that you had to get as much of it as you could as quickly as possible to keep up with all the moving players.
The romance was also a bit confusing. I would categorize it as slow burn (Avalon/Hadrian) and enemies to lovers (Nocturne/Kit), however the culmination of both relationships happens very suddenly and came across kind of rushed. Considering all the other aspects of the story, it makes sense that the focus is on the journey and the conflicts surrounding the couples and not on them making googly eyes at each other, so if you can get over the sudden admission of feelings the details of each relationship are BEAUTIFUL and the love/devotion is exquisitely written.
Sable’s story as it slowly unfolded throughout the book made her my favorite character, no contest. She gives me vibes I haven’t felt since meeting Caleana/Aelin from Throne of Glass and I can’t wait to see where her story leads!!
We are left off on a bit of a cliffhanger for all our characters (I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS TO ONE PERSON IN PARTICULAR) and there are SO many questions left to be answered/explored, but to be honest upon finishing all I could think about was reading it again to pick up on all of the points I know I missed or didn’t pick up on the first time around.
This book is an incredible start to an epic story and I CANNOT WAIT to get my hands on the next installment!!!
I want to say a huge thank you to the author Kayla Edwards for sending me a free copy in exchange for my honest review because WOW. If you are a fan of Sarah J. Maas and you enjoy books like Lord of the Rings, Throne of Glass, and ACOTAR, this is right up your alley.
This story is packed with some of my favorite things: high fantasy, intricate world building, dormant/hidden powers, god/goddess hierarchy in a mythical world, and an epic journey with a very unlikely hero (or should I say heroine).
The book largely follows 2 main characters: First, the mortal princess Avalon who is the only daughter of the once mortal king who has since transformed into a Fey known as the Dark Lord for his evil deeds and cold domination. Second is Nocturne, a shifter who watched her family be tortured and killed so that she could be taken and forced to train to be a member of the king’s Wolf Pack.
The Pack is a group of shifter wolves who, under the command of the king, track and hunt down others possessing powers (such as Nocturne), brutalizing and demolishing villages in the process. Nocturne has not accepted her “skin” yet which would allow her to shift, so she is known as the runt and pretty much the punching bag for the Pack. The only person who seems to have a soft spot for her is the general known as the Wolf of the North, one of the king’s highest ranking warriors. Named Kit, it is hinted he is the most powerful shifter and has not yet mated with his match as wolves can only mate with someone whose power matches their own. I’m hoping beyond hope that’s our girl Nocturne because their chemistry is electric and heartbreaking since a romance between them is obviously very forbidden.
Avalon, largely ignored by her father who is solely focused on winning the war he is currently waging on the world, takes to exploring the House of Ice after dark. There she follows a ghostly spirit who leads her into the catacombs under the House and to a mysterious iron mask. As the mask calls to her she puts it on her face and it adheres to her skin revealing a girl trapped inside it. With her father sending her away, she decides to take the mask with her, however once the king realizes the mask is gone he has Avalon and her guard Hadrian hunted down by his assassin know as the Wraith. And this is where our story explodes.
SO much happens in this book. At first you’re not entirely sure how Nocturne/Kit’s and Avalon/Hadrian’s stories relate, but as Avalon spends more time wearing the mask and interacting with its prisoner she comes to find out that the girl is the key to everything and that her name is Sable Erwyn Sylvana: a girl bestowed by Hillandria, the goddess of fire, with the rare ability to control fire. Though their parents were killed, Sable and her brother Killian were mercifully spared from execution by a guard not fulfilling his duty and then found themselves in the hands of friends who were able to disguise, protect, and raise them in secret. That is until the king finally discovered them, wiping Killian’s memories entirely and imprisoning Sable in the mask where she remembers nothing, hears nothing, and sees nothing…that is until Avalon wears the mask.
This book is every bit the epic adventure you want it to be. The romance is there, but it takes a back burner to the beautiful dynamic between Avalon and Sable as they unlock Sable’s memories and work quickly to collect the items needed to free Sable from the mask once and for all. There is also an amazing dynamic struck between 3 male characters (who I won’t mention because *spoilers*) who aid Avalon and Hadrian against all odds in hopes that freeing Sable will turn the tide in the war and defeat the Dark Lord once and for all.
I did take off a star solely because at times the knowledge you received felt more like a massive, super quick information dump. I liked the flashback and storytelling sequences much more since they seemed to progress the story more organically, but overall there was SO much information to take in that you had to get as much of it as you could as quickly as possible to keep up with all the moving players.
The romance was also a bit confusing. I would categorize it as slow burn (Avalon/Hadrian) and enemies to lovers (Nocturne/Kit), however the culmination of both relationships happens very suddenly and came across kind of rushed. Considering all the other aspects of the story, it makes sense that the focus is on the journey and the conflicts surrounding the couples and not on them making googly eyes at each other, so if you can get over the sudden admission of feelings the details of each relationship are BEAUTIFUL and the love/devotion is exquisitely written.
Sable’s story as it slowly unfolded throughout the book made her my favorite character, no contest. She gives me vibes I haven’t felt since meeting Caleana/Aelin from Throne of Glass and I can’t wait to see where her story leads!!
We are left off on a bit of a cliffhanger for all our characters (I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS TO ONE PERSON IN PARTICULAR) and there are SO many questions left to be answered/explored, but to be honest upon finishing all I could think about was reading it again to pick up on all of the points I know I missed or didn’t pick up on the first time around.
This book is an incredible start to an epic story and I CANNOT WAIT to get my hands on the next installment!!!
Read
December 17, 2021OMG! I am sooooooo sad because... I HAD TO FINISH THIS BOOK! Like wtf? Are you kidding me?! I was asked for an honest review by Kayla and I was devastated, you guys. First of all, I would like to say how well this story is beautifully written. Kayla really ropes you in with her writing and how she describes how her world looks like. THE WORLDBUILDING IS JUST AMAZING. I AM NOT KIDDING.
Every time there's a new place introduced it was just so amazing.
Characters:
The characters were all lovable SABLE and AVALON maybe princesses, but they were fuckin QUEENS ya'll they slayed the hell out of this book. I love their dynamic. It was freaking awesome. And Nocturne was just badass! I can't wait to see more of her in the next book!
THE MEN:
Kit- So... Morally grey...Possessive/Protective - White haired WOLF- LOVE HIM <3
Killian - The angsty, broody shapeshifting dragon, and I LOVE HIM TOO! <3 My goodness he's so yum. <3
Hadrian- Touch her and you'll die type of man - Pretty boy fae <3 Omg I don't just read the book guys it has EVERYTHING!
Childhood friends to lovers trope
Touch her and you'll DIE TROPE
Kind of enemies to lovers trope
I want to love you, but we can't be together trope
OMG, I literally cried guys. I couldn't even look at my tablet because. It was amazing. It was like Throne of GLASS AMAZING! So it may be YA, but it will be NA later. *wink wink* So PLEASE! Get a copy you will not regret it. The vibes are like the Witcher, Throne of Glass, and it does have prophecies in it. This is the first book I've ever read of Kayla and she has made it to my top authors <3 Hands down. I love indie authors. Thanks, Kayla for the Book. I am not lying when I am saying, she IS UNDERRATED! I will definitely get a copy of this book AND I AM HYPED FOR MORE!
Every time there's a new place introduced it was just so amazing.
Characters:
The characters were all lovable SABLE and AVALON maybe princesses, but they were fuckin QUEENS ya'll they slayed the hell out of this book. I love their dynamic. It was freaking awesome. And Nocturne was just badass! I can't wait to see more of her in the next book!
THE MEN:
Kit- So... Morally grey...Possessive/Protective - White haired WOLF- LOVE HIM <3
Killian - The angsty, broody shapeshifting dragon, and I LOVE HIM TOO! <3 My goodness he's so yum. <3
Hadrian- Touch her and you'll die type of man - Pretty boy fae <3 Omg I don't just read the book guys it has EVERYTHING!
Childhood friends to lovers trope
Touch her and you'll DIE TROPE
Kind of enemies to lovers trope
I want to love you, but we can't be together trope
OMG, I literally cried guys. I couldn't even look at my tablet because. It was amazing. It was like Throne of GLASS AMAZING! So it may be YA, but it will be NA later. *wink wink* So PLEASE! Get a copy you will not regret it. The vibes are like the Witcher, Throne of Glass, and it does have prophecies in it. This is the first book I've ever read of Kayla and she has made it to my top authors <3 Hands down. I love indie authors. Thanks, Kayla for the Book. I am not lying when I am saying, she IS UNDERRATED! I will definitely get a copy of this book AND I AM HYPED FOR MORE!
April 9, 2025
Unfortunately, this was pretty disappointing.
Avalon is the princess of the Fey despite being human and lives her life in the House of Ice. Exploring one day, she discovers a mask keeping a warrior trapped inside it. Sable's been stuck in this mask for ages; the longer she stays in it the more her soul and memories leave her. Determined to get her out, Avalon and the captain of her guard, Hadrien, go on a wild goose chase to set Sable free.
This was just boring. I can count on one hand how many times I was invested in this story and I think it was maybe(?) three times. I've never heard of this book, but I love the House of Devils series by this author, so I figured I'd give her debut a try. I understand why this one isn't spoken about as much because it's so different from her famous series.
I also didn't realize this would be YA. Before you yell at me for not liking a YA fantasy romance, the majority of the fantasy romance I've read in my lifetime is YA, that wasn't the problem. To be honest, there are a few mature themes here, sexual assault for example, but other than that this reads like a plain young adult novel.
The characters in this series I also do not care for. There are side characters named Nocturne and Kit (essentially the alpha of the werewolf pack and the shunned and abandoned girl who can't shift) who are heaps more interesting than the main characters' storyline. Avalon and Hadrien should be characters I obsess over but I don't. The Princess X Guard trope gets me EVERY TIME, but this one didn't. They knew each other their entire lives and it is stated in the beginning how they've always wanted more and she knew they were soulmates, but they didn't act on it when he got promoted to the captain of the guard. LAME! Thus, I had no yearning at all, even when Kayla Edwards wrote about it, I felt nothing for them.
The plot in itself is creative and fun, but because of the execution, I didn't care. This book was just really boring to me and it's so unfortunate because I love her other books SO BAD. To be fair, I don't think anyone knows this book exists, the author hasn't even spoken about it since 2023 and in a comment on her Instagram she replied to someone saying she was going to make this a series, but it may be a standalone. Since she hasn't spoken about it for two years, it's pretty safe to say this is a standalone now. It doesn't end on a cliffhanger either, so at least that was wrapped up.
If you want to read a book from Kayla Edwards, don't start with this one. I honestly think you can skip this, which is unfortunate, but is my opinion.
Avalon is the princess of the Fey despite being human and lives her life in the House of Ice. Exploring one day, she discovers a mask keeping a warrior trapped inside it. Sable's been stuck in this mask for ages; the longer she stays in it the more her soul and memories leave her. Determined to get her out, Avalon and the captain of her guard, Hadrien, go on a wild goose chase to set Sable free.
This was just boring. I can count on one hand how many times I was invested in this story and I think it was maybe(?) three times. I've never heard of this book, but I love the House of Devils series by this author, so I figured I'd give her debut a try. I understand why this one isn't spoken about as much because it's so different from her famous series.
I also didn't realize this would be YA. Before you yell at me for not liking a YA fantasy romance, the majority of the fantasy romance I've read in my lifetime is YA, that wasn't the problem. To be honest, there are a few mature themes here, sexual assault for example, but other than that this reads like a plain young adult novel.
The characters in this series I also do not care for. There are side characters named Nocturne and Kit (essentially the alpha of the werewolf pack and the shunned and abandoned girl who can't shift) who are heaps more interesting than the main characters' storyline. Avalon and Hadrien should be characters I obsess over but I don't. The Princess X Guard trope gets me EVERY TIME, but this one didn't. They knew each other their entire lives and it is stated in the beginning how they've always wanted more and she knew they were soulmates, but they didn't act on it when he got promoted to the captain of the guard. LAME! Thus, I had no yearning at all, even when Kayla Edwards wrote about it, I felt nothing for them.
The plot in itself is creative and fun, but because of the execution, I didn't care. This book was just really boring to me and it's so unfortunate because I love her other books SO BAD. To be fair, I don't think anyone knows this book exists, the author hasn't even spoken about it since 2023 and in a comment on her Instagram she replied to someone saying she was going to make this a series, but it may be a standalone. Since she hasn't spoken about it for two years, it's pretty safe to say this is a standalone now. It doesn't end on a cliffhanger either, so at least that was wrapped up.
If you want to read a book from Kayla Edwards, don't start with this one. I honestly think you can skip this, which is unfortunate, but is my opinion.
December 31, 2021
Anyone looking for the next epic fantasy book should check out 𝑫𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝑰𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰𝒓𝒐𝒏! The characters are absolutely amazing, and the writing style is not only beautiful but it also draws you into the story from the very first chapter.
Avalon, Hadrian, Nocturne, Sable, and all the rest make up a truly wonderful cast. I loved getting to know them and seeing them grow throughout the book. I can’t wait to see what comes next for everyone!
Avalon, Hadrian, Nocturne, Sable, and all the rest make up a truly wonderful cast. I loved getting to know them and seeing them grow throughout the book. I can’t wait to see what comes next for everyone!
December 28, 2021
I first came across this book from a friend on bookstagram and her review and encouragement led me to read the book for myself.
This is a debut novel from this author and she excelled. Her writing was impeccable and it drew me in from the start. Despite being confused in the beginning due to the jumping back and forth of characters and time periods I still gave this book 5 stars.
Each character I bonded with and I loved the romances she threw in there as well. The slow burn, the tension, the missions and how every event and character tied in with others was so smooth. The world building as well was very intricate and done out perfectly that I wasn’t confused.
If you liked ACOTAR and These Hollow Vows - this has similar vibes. If you like Fey, Gods, sea monsters, adventure quests, shapeshifters and the like - PLEASE add this to your tbr and go give this author’s book a try. She’s releasing a new book in a new series early next year and I’m super excited.
This is a debut novel from this author and she excelled. Her writing was impeccable and it drew me in from the start. Despite being confused in the beginning due to the jumping back and forth of characters and time periods I still gave this book 5 stars.
Each character I bonded with and I loved the romances she threw in there as well. The slow burn, the tension, the missions and how every event and character tied in with others was so smooth. The world building as well was very intricate and done out perfectly that I wasn’t confused.
If you liked ACOTAR and These Hollow Vows - this has similar vibes. If you like Fey, Gods, sea monsters, adventure quests, shapeshifters and the like - PLEASE add this to your tbr and go give this author’s book a try. She’s releasing a new book in a new series early next year and I’m super excited.
January 29, 2022
3.5 - really like the concept and anytime we get BOTH enemies to lovers AND friends to lovers in the same book is a win.
However, I would have liked a little less tell and little more show. So much of the story happens off page and we’re told about it later.
Most of the issues here could have been fixed by a good editor and I have high hopes for this author and the worlds she’s building!
*I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review*
However, I would have liked a little less tell and little more show. So much of the story happens off page and we’re told about it later.
Most of the issues here could have been fixed by a good editor and I have high hopes for this author and the worlds she’s building!
*I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2025
This book was SO GOOD!! I absolutely loved the dual storylines.
This works really well as a standalone but I really hope we get to see more of Avalon and Nocturne together
This works really well as a standalone but I really hope we get to see more of Avalon and Nocturne together
February 23, 2023
Dreams of Ice and Iron - 4/5⭐️
Spice: 0.5/5🌶 (brief mention/closed door)
‘“I feel too much,” she whispered. “There is no such thing.”’
Dreams of Ice and Iron is a high fantasy upper-YA novel with Throne of Glass vibes. The story follows a mortal princess, Avalon, who finds an iron mask with a warrior trapped inside, as well as a pack of wolf-shifters who serve the evil king. There are all different kinds of magical beings - fey, elves, shifters, monsters, gods and goddesses - as well as different realms, political intrigue - I’m truly fascinated by this incredible world! I want to know more!
I really think this series has the potential to be something great. There were a few things I struggled with though. I thought the romances and relationships between the characters felt rushed. I wish there was time within the story to develop those more. Also, it’s clear that this world is well thought-out and nuanced but I also didn’t feel like I got enough of the history/background to truly understand it all. As it’s a debut novel, this isn’t enough to deter me from continuing with the series.
Overall, I’m really excited to read what happens next!
Spice: 0.5/5🌶 (brief mention/closed door)
‘“I feel too much,” she whispered. “There is no such thing.”’
Dreams of Ice and Iron is a high fantasy upper-YA novel with Throne of Glass vibes. The story follows a mortal princess, Avalon, who finds an iron mask with a warrior trapped inside, as well as a pack of wolf-shifters who serve the evil king. There are all different kinds of magical beings - fey, elves, shifters, monsters, gods and goddesses - as well as different realms, political intrigue - I’m truly fascinated by this incredible world! I want to know more!
I really think this series has the potential to be something great. There were a few things I struggled with though. I thought the romances and relationships between the characters felt rushed. I wish there was time within the story to develop those more. Also, it’s clear that this world is well thought-out and nuanced but I also didn’t feel like I got enough of the history/background to truly understand it all. As it’s a debut novel, this isn’t enough to deter me from continuing with the series.
Overall, I’m really excited to read what happens next!
February 7, 2025
✖️DNF✖️
My thoughts: This was not good. If I’d read this when I was 15 I probably would have loved it. But it’s not particularly well written, the plot is underdeveloped, the magic inconsistent and the world-building nonexistent.
The relationships have no development - you’re thrust into them with little to no context. Nocturne has been part of the army for 6 weeks and she and the general have gone from enemies to almost-lovers completely off-screen? Does it even count as enemies to lovers? I've had antagonistic relationships with mouldy food in my fridge for longer than these two.
Hadrian and Avalon are lifelong friends who teeter on the edge of taking their relationship to the next level but their conversations are stifled and emotionless. Honey, with Daddy issues like yours, it's no wonder a beige boyfriend being emotionally distant gets you hot under the collar.
The flashbacks/dreams are kind of cool - but they should have been the start. Give us some intrigue and framework to work within.
The story just creates more questions as it goes along - why is the king fighting? Who are they fighting? Are there other kings/lands he’s trying to capture? Or are we just at war cause it’s cool? If the King can wipe memories, why doesn't he just wipe the memories of all his enemies?
Breaking point for me was when a character was questioning how something in an ice kingdom stayed warm with the honest-to-god-written-line: "Magic - yes that was the best explanation". BABES. An explanation is the best explanation. If your character isn't familiar with the magic, explore/explain that. I mean, you're a werewolf, so magic cannot be THAT foreign of a concept for you.
This is the second series from this author that I’ve tried - it’s just a big nope from me.
My thoughts: This was not good. If I’d read this when I was 15 I probably would have loved it. But it’s not particularly well written, the plot is underdeveloped, the magic inconsistent and the world-building nonexistent.
The relationships have no development - you’re thrust into them with little to no context. Nocturne has been part of the army for 6 weeks and she and the general have gone from enemies to almost-lovers completely off-screen? Does it even count as enemies to lovers? I've had antagonistic relationships with mouldy food in my fridge for longer than these two.
Hadrian and Avalon are lifelong friends who teeter on the edge of taking their relationship to the next level but their conversations are stifled and emotionless. Honey, with Daddy issues like yours, it's no wonder a beige boyfriend being emotionally distant gets you hot under the collar.
The flashbacks/dreams are kind of cool - but they should have been the start. Give us some intrigue and framework to work within.
The story just creates more questions as it goes along - why is the king fighting? Who are they fighting? Are there other kings/lands he’s trying to capture? Or are we just at war cause it’s cool? If the King can wipe memories, why doesn't he just wipe the memories of all his enemies?
Breaking point for me was when a character was questioning how something in an ice kingdom stayed warm with the honest-to-god-written-line: "Magic - yes that was the best explanation". BABES. An explanation is the best explanation. If your character isn't familiar with the magic, explore/explain that. I mean, you're a werewolf, so magic cannot be THAT foreign of a concept for you.
This is the second series from this author that I’ve tried - it’s just a big nope from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2021
This book have so many things I really like, for example well developed characters, well crafted and written plot, a good world building filled with mystical creatures and a beginning of a beautiful friendship as well as romantic relationship for some of the characters.
Avalon is a great main character and I really love reading her POV, especially when she stands up for herself when it comes to Hadrian😂 I also love reading Sable's POV from the past before she was trapped, her past is more heart breaking than heart warming (hopefully better things will happen to her throughout this series).
There's also Kit, he's one of my favorite because deep down he has a kind heart despite the cold behavior to his soldiers and Nocturne.
I have to admit the book was pretty lengthy and there are so many characters and places to remember I admit it was a bit confusing but once you read it further it will get easier to follow the story. The pacing was also a bit slow at first, but it picks up right away in the middle until the end.
One more thing I wanted more from this book is the addition of a map! It'll be even more amazing envisioning the places as the characters travel from one place to another.
Overall, this book is highly enjoyable and entertaining. So many heart breaking and heart warming parts in this story which means putting down this book is almost impossible to do!
This is a great book to start a series and I really hope the rest of the series will be as good as this! I can't wait for the next journey from these amazing characters and see what happens next!
A huge thank you to the author for letting me read this amazing book and I voluntarily give my honest opinion in return!
Actual rating: 4.5⭐
Avalon is a great main character and I really love reading her POV, especially when she stands up for herself when it comes to Hadrian😂 I also love reading Sable's POV from the past before she was trapped, her past is more heart breaking than heart warming (hopefully better things will happen to her throughout this series).
There's also Kit, he's one of my favorite because deep down he has a kind heart despite the cold behavior to his soldiers and Nocturne.
I have to admit the book was pretty lengthy and there are so many characters and places to remember I admit it was a bit confusing but once you read it further it will get easier to follow the story. The pacing was also a bit slow at first, but it picks up right away in the middle until the end.
One more thing I wanted more from this book is the addition of a map! It'll be even more amazing envisioning the places as the characters travel from one place to another.
Overall, this book is highly enjoyable and entertaining. So many heart breaking and heart warming parts in this story which means putting down this book is almost impossible to do!
This is a great book to start a series and I really hope the rest of the series will be as good as this! I can't wait for the next journey from these amazing characters and see what happens next!
A huge thank you to the author for letting me read this amazing book and I voluntarily give my honest opinion in return!
Actual rating: 4.5⭐
September 1, 2021
An extremely powerful story ! I highly recommend this book . It won’t disappoint.
January 10, 2022
I’m sure I’ve just read a different book to everyone else.
I’ve tried not to be too critical as it is self-published, but there is so much about this book that I really didn’t enjoy.
World-building
What world-building? I know basically nothing about this world. There are separate realms but no idea how many or their purpose. Does the King of Fey rule over all the realms or do they each have separate rulers? Was he always the king? How did he become King? Were the Sylvanas the rulers before him or just of that realm? Who was his army before the wolves and dragon?
As well as this, there are separate beings living in the realms; Elves, Fairfolk, humans, Fey. It’s not until chapter 19 that we even get a slight overview of the Elves vs Fey. Before that, the terms were used pretty interchangeably.
The characters
Avalon is the worst, closely followed by Hadrian. Avalon is so incredibly whiny, petulant, fickle, and quite frankly, pathetic. Hadrian is just straight up rude, haughty, and bland.
I am all about character growth, and I don’t mind some self-doubt that they work through, but Avalon saying “if I could live for as long as you will, I’d be lucky to be even half a smart as you” is just ridiculous. It comes out of nowhere and Hadrian hasn’t once shown himself smart in any overt capacity, except for him to reply that they are basically the same age. It’s just fluff for her meekness and makes her completely unlikeable.
Kit and Nocturne weren’t as bad. I wish their tension was a bit more organic but compared to the other two, they were downright fascinating. Nocturne’s personality was a little difficult to grasp. First she’s a badass, then she’s randomly crying, then she’s a warrior, then she’s timid, then she’s strong, then she’s self-loathing. But she stands up for herself and fights back against the position she’s been forced into, so she gets a thumbs up.
Sable, Killian, Levon, Wraith, even Hunter – love them all. Not a bad word to say about them.
But more than anything, I can’t stand the way the women are written to be insecure, weepy, self-pitying failures. I’m not saying characters can’t cry and that it's weak to emote, but all 3 main female characters cry in this book, usually at the most absurd things, and so often refer to themselves as stupid and lesser than their male counterparts. I rolled my eyes more than sympathised. Honestly, I wish I’d kept an eye roll counter.
The plot/writing
For the most part, I enjoyed the writing. It flowed nicely and was easy to read but I did end up skimming midway, and I found myself feeling disconnected from the characters. And I like the premise here but the story flits from each character POV’s too quickly to feel like the story is moving at all. When something begins to happen in one storyline, the POV changes and you’re suddenly in a stagnant part of another storyline.
There were some strange scene sequences that didn’t make sense, as though the author suddenly remembered she’d forgotten to include something and would randomly pop it into the middle of another scene, or would quickly include an event or conversation just to drive the plot. Like Hadrian suddenly being a tester for poison, It feels lazy. And the hierarchy is just all over the place.
Then there’s the scene where Nocturne is telling Kit about a wolf encounter from the past:
‘“I stumbled upon a wolf and two barefoot children”
“Killian and Sable” the general whispered’
How on earth would Kit know it was those two? They’d not even been talking about them.
I think I may have been a bit too harsh in this review; it's not a terrible book, it just isn't as well-executed as I'd hoped, and it may be something that I'd have enjoyed better when I was 16.
So, sadly, I’m giving this book 2.5 stars rounded down to 2 - Avalon doesn’t deserve a round-up. Sorry.
I’ve tried not to be too critical as it is self-published, but there is so much about this book that I really didn’t enjoy.
World-building
What world-building? I know basically nothing about this world. There are separate realms but no idea how many or their purpose. Does the King of Fey rule over all the realms or do they each have separate rulers? Was he always the king? How did he become King? Were the Sylvanas the rulers before him or just of that realm? Who was his army before the wolves and dragon?
As well as this, there are separate beings living in the realms; Elves, Fairfolk, humans, Fey. It’s not until chapter 19 that we even get a slight overview of the Elves vs Fey. Before that, the terms were used pretty interchangeably.
The characters
Avalon is the worst, closely followed by Hadrian. Avalon is so incredibly whiny, petulant, fickle, and quite frankly, pathetic. Hadrian is just straight up rude, haughty, and bland.
I am all about character growth, and I don’t mind some self-doubt that they work through, but Avalon saying “if I could live for as long as you will, I’d be lucky to be even half a smart as you” is just ridiculous. It comes out of nowhere and Hadrian hasn’t once shown himself smart in any overt capacity, except for him to reply that they are basically the same age. It’s just fluff for her meekness and makes her completely unlikeable.
Kit and Nocturne weren’t as bad. I wish their tension was a bit more organic but compared to the other two, they were downright fascinating. Nocturne’s personality was a little difficult to grasp. First she’s a badass, then she’s randomly crying, then she’s a warrior, then she’s timid, then she’s strong, then she’s self-loathing. But she stands up for herself and fights back against the position she’s been forced into, so she gets a thumbs up.
Sable, Killian, Levon, Wraith, even Hunter – love them all. Not a bad word to say about them.
But more than anything, I can’t stand the way the women are written to be insecure, weepy, self-pitying failures. I’m not saying characters can’t cry and that it's weak to emote, but all 3 main female characters cry in this book, usually at the most absurd things, and so often refer to themselves as stupid and lesser than their male counterparts. I rolled my eyes more than sympathised. Honestly, I wish I’d kept an eye roll counter.
The plot/writing
For the most part, I enjoyed the writing. It flowed nicely and was easy to read but I did end up skimming midway, and I found myself feeling disconnected from the characters. And I like the premise here but the story flits from each character POV’s too quickly to feel like the story is moving at all. When something begins to happen in one storyline, the POV changes and you’re suddenly in a stagnant part of another storyline.
There were some strange scene sequences that didn’t make sense, as though the author suddenly remembered she’d forgotten to include something and would randomly pop it into the middle of another scene, or would quickly include an event or conversation just to drive the plot. Like Hadrian suddenly being a tester for poison, It feels lazy. And the hierarchy is just all over the place.
Then there’s the scene where Nocturne is telling Kit about a wolf encounter from the past:
‘“I stumbled upon a wolf and two barefoot children”
“Killian and Sable” the general whispered’
How on earth would Kit know it was those two? They’d not even been talking about them.
I think I may have been a bit too harsh in this review; it's not a terrible book, it just isn't as well-executed as I'd hoped, and it may be something that I'd have enjoyed better when I was 16.
So, sadly, I’m giving this book 2.5 stars rounded down to 2 - Avalon doesn’t deserve a round-up. Sorry.
November 26, 2022
Princess Avalon hears a mysterious whisper from the catacombs at the House of Ice and discovers a magic mask with a warrior trapped inside. She soon learns that this is the only time the warrior can be released from the mask and Avalon realizes her father is out to keep the warrior imprisoned at any cost.
This book had so many cool elements. It has amazing world building, with fey, humans, and elves coming together to stop an evil king. There are dark and scary monsters at every turn and the people thought to be monsters turn out to be more than you might expect.
The characters:
Avalon is a human and looked down on by other races. It is a mystery how her father became an immortal tyrant.
Sable, the warrior woman inside the mask becomes known to readers through memories imparted to Avalon. We learn she has fire magic which can easily get out of control and cause mass destruction.
Killian, Sable's twin brother, aka the Dragon is believed to have his memory wiped by the king and is the kings loyal pet shape shifter.
Hadrian, captain of the guard and Avalon's best friend accompanies her on her quest to free Sable.
Kit and Nocturne. Shape shifting wolves. Kit is the alpha and Nocturne is the runt. Nocturne refuses to embrace her skin and shift into a wolf after the king slayed her entire family. Kit shows her he's not the murderous tool she thinks he is.
All come together in an unlikely way to find a way to help Avalon and Sable, each for their own reasons. I did feel the end of this book and the alliance between the characters felt a little rushed and disjointed. Edwards also spends the first half of the book sprinkled in Sable's memories, but we get a big memory dump close to the end, which contributed to it feeling rushed.
I read this book on Kindle unlimited and really enjoyed it overall. I definitely like Edwards style of fantasy writing. It's a great book for ya fantasy lovers.
This book had so many cool elements. It has amazing world building, with fey, humans, and elves coming together to stop an evil king. There are dark and scary monsters at every turn and the people thought to be monsters turn out to be more than you might expect.
The characters:
Avalon is a human and looked down on by other races. It is a mystery how her father became an immortal tyrant.
Sable, the warrior woman inside the mask becomes known to readers through memories imparted to Avalon. We learn she has fire magic which can easily get out of control and cause mass destruction.
Killian, Sable's twin brother, aka the Dragon is believed to have his memory wiped by the king and is the kings loyal pet shape shifter.
Hadrian, captain of the guard and Avalon's best friend accompanies her on her quest to free Sable.
Kit and Nocturne. Shape shifting wolves. Kit is the alpha and Nocturne is the runt. Nocturne refuses to embrace her skin and shift into a wolf after the king slayed her entire family. Kit shows her he's not the murderous tool she thinks he is.
All come together in an unlikely way to find a way to help Avalon and Sable, each for their own reasons. I did feel the end of this book and the alliance between the characters felt a little rushed and disjointed. Edwards also spends the first half of the book sprinkled in Sable's memories, but we get a big memory dump close to the end, which contributed to it feeling rushed.
I read this book on Kindle unlimited and really enjoyed it overall. I definitely like Edwards style of fantasy writing. It's a great book for ya fantasy lovers.
March 11, 2022
Ahh, I’m always so late, but I wanted to let everyone know what I think about this book. I wrote a few good words about it on my Instagram, back when I was still reading it and just a few chapters in, which I already liked.
Because of lack of time I’ve been reading “Dreams of Ice and Iron” for a few months and finished at the end of the previous year, which was a digital copy I received through MTMC Tours thanks to their and the author’s kindness. It was my first time taking part in that sort of tour and it was such a positive surprise as the book turned out to be just amazing!
Often when I decide to read debut books, there is always something missing in them. Either the plot doesn’t pull me in, or I’m indifferent towards characters and their fate. It wasn’t the case with Kayla Edwards’s book!
She has it all. She writes greatly, while keeping it light, the storytelling is captivating and characters come to life on the pages of “Dreams of Ice and Iron”.
Normally I’m not a fan of multi POV, but I was a fan of it here, I was interested in every single character’s point of view, their thoughts and feelings, and I don’t think I could’ve had enough. Despite not knowing at first where the story was going and not expecting so many characters to make an appearance, I immediately liked all of them, and the plot pulled me in basically from the first page. From the very first sentence I knew this book was special.
I love Kayla’s writing style. It’s just so involving and it flows so smoothly, you become immersed with the story almost instantly. As I write this review, I’m currently reading another book by this author “City of Gods and Monsters” which I like as well, but I can tell that DOIAI is THAT book for me! I love Avalon and Nocturne, the first one a little bit more (I think it’s a rare opinion tho), and their adventures, and I hope for more romance in the sequel!
Because of lack of time I’ve been reading “Dreams of Ice and Iron” for a few months and finished at the end of the previous year, which was a digital copy I received through MTMC Tours thanks to their and the author’s kindness. It was my first time taking part in that sort of tour and it was such a positive surprise as the book turned out to be just amazing!
Often when I decide to read debut books, there is always something missing in them. Either the plot doesn’t pull me in, or I’m indifferent towards characters and their fate. It wasn’t the case with Kayla Edwards’s book!
She has it all. She writes greatly, while keeping it light, the storytelling is captivating and characters come to life on the pages of “Dreams of Ice and Iron”.
Normally I’m not a fan of multi POV, but I was a fan of it here, I was interested in every single character’s point of view, their thoughts and feelings, and I don’t think I could’ve had enough. Despite not knowing at first where the story was going and not expecting so many characters to make an appearance, I immediately liked all of them, and the plot pulled me in basically from the first page. From the very first sentence I knew this book was special.
I love Kayla’s writing style. It’s just so involving and it flows so smoothly, you become immersed with the story almost instantly. As I write this review, I’m currently reading another book by this author “City of Gods and Monsters” which I like as well, but I can tell that DOIAI is THAT book for me! I love Avalon and Nocturne, the first one a little bit more (I think it’s a rare opinion tho), and their adventures, and I hope for more romance in the sequel!
May 24, 2023
3.5 stars
This was actually pretty interesting! It took me awhile to get invested in the story because I was confused about the characters: the captain of the guard, the wolf of winter and the wraith. But afterwards, I managed to figure out who was who!
I just think that the characters would have stood out more if there was more characterisation and more expressions. I feel like I don't get Hadrian sometimes whenever he is talking to Avalon. Their romance seemed a bit more like friendship rather than romance at times too.
Additionally, I didn't really see the point of having Nocturne as a character, if she doesn't really play a huge role in the present story. If anything, reading Nocturne's POV often left me bored. Most of her chapters are just repeating about her being called a runt and being bullied because she's not as powerful as the rest of the wolf-pack. In general, reading any other POV other than Avalon/Sable/Hadrian often left me feeling bored. I was pretty much only invested in these three, though it was nice to learn that apparently the soldiers in the court were not as loyal to the Dark King as I initially thought.
Another thing that I noticed about the writing was that certain plot points seemed a little too convenient. Avalon is always fainting whenever she's in danger etc, it's always a fade-to-black scenario, rather than the author continuing on to explain how a situation is resolved. And I get that everyone hates the Dark King, but why is it that most people that Avalon meets just willingly hands over their precious jewels??
I also think that the author skipped certain important explanations too, like why is the King the way he is? Everyone notices that there is something wrong with the king, but they don't probe and find out why??
This was actually pretty interesting! It took me awhile to get invested in the story because I was confused about the characters: the captain of the guard, the wolf of winter and the wraith. But afterwards, I managed to figure out who was who!
I just think that the characters would have stood out more if there was more characterisation and more expressions. I feel like I don't get Hadrian sometimes whenever he is talking to Avalon. Their romance seemed a bit more like friendship rather than romance at times too.
Additionally, I didn't really see the point of having Nocturne as a character, if she doesn't really play a huge role in the present story. If anything, reading Nocturne's POV often left me bored. Most of her chapters are just repeating about her being called a runt and being bullied because she's not as powerful as the rest of the wolf-pack. In general, reading any other POV other than Avalon/Sable/Hadrian often left me feeling bored. I was pretty much only invested in these three, though it was nice to learn that apparently the soldiers in the court were not as loyal to the Dark King as I initially thought.
Another thing that I noticed about the writing was that certain plot points seemed a little too convenient. Avalon is always fainting whenever she's in danger etc, it's always a fade-to-black scenario, rather than the author continuing on to explain how a situation is resolved. And I get that everyone hates the Dark King, but why is it that most people that Avalon meets just willingly hands over their precious jewels??
I also think that the author skipped certain important explanations too, like why is the King the way he is? Everyone notices that there is something wrong with the king, but they don't probe and find out why??
January 13, 2022
3.5 stars
~Review~ Dreams of Ice and Iron by Kayla Edwards - an Upper YA Epic Fantasy.
“Locked inside an iron mask by the King of the Fey, Sable Erwyn Sylvana has waited ten years for freedom—and to take revenge on those who cursed her. But with every second that passes inside the mask, her soul begins to fade farther away. The memories of her loved ones and her former life become a blur, and soon she cannot even remember her own name.”
I was asked for my honest review in exchange for a copy of this book. I’ve just finished and I’ll start off by saying that Dreams of Ice and Iron is really beautifully written, with the prose jumping off the page and being very easy to read.
Kayla Edwards really is a great writer and you can appreciate the amazing craft she’s put into this book.
Character Highlights: Sable is such a queen! And Nocturne, an interesting character with things just getting going… I’m excited to read more about them in future.
I would have loved a little more history and context about the world/realm as it was pretty complex and was clearly well thought through… I have a lot of questions!
Having said that, it was an enjoyable fantasy read and I’m looking forward to seeing what this author puts out next!
~Review~ Dreams of Ice and Iron by Kayla Edwards - an Upper YA Epic Fantasy.
“Locked inside an iron mask by the King of the Fey, Sable Erwyn Sylvana has waited ten years for freedom—and to take revenge on those who cursed her. But with every second that passes inside the mask, her soul begins to fade farther away. The memories of her loved ones and her former life become a blur, and soon she cannot even remember her own name.”
I was asked for my honest review in exchange for a copy of this book. I’ve just finished and I’ll start off by saying that Dreams of Ice and Iron is really beautifully written, with the prose jumping off the page and being very easy to read.
Kayla Edwards really is a great writer and you can appreciate the amazing craft she’s put into this book.
Character Highlights: Sable is such a queen! And Nocturne, an interesting character with things just getting going… I’m excited to read more about them in future.
I would have loved a little more history and context about the world/realm as it was pretty complex and was clearly well thought through… I have a lot of questions!
Having said that, it was an enjoyable fantasy read and I’m looking forward to seeing what this author puts out next!
January 4, 2025
I didn’t want to finish this book. I LOVE THIS BOOK. I love the characters, I love the world, I love everything about it. I want more. Please write more!
The only con was they seemed to get all the gems easily. I mean, besides the first one, it was like they were handed the rest and they got to the capital city in no time (probably longer than we think, but one page they’re in this elf kingdom and the next they’re in the capital). Like I feel like there could have been more, but also it was good. There was so much detail in the first half before they even found a stone, so if it continued like that it would’ve been good, but it was also a lot.
I wanted more of Kit and Nocturne!! I love them. I want them to have the best life. I wanted them to leave the pack and fight for Avalon and Hadrian and Sable, but no.
I need another book. I have to see Sable and Killian reunite. I need to figure out what’s going on with the king and Gandarian — he’s in a mask too????
Please, author, please. Write another!! I have so many questions and thoughts. I loved this book so so much.
The only con was they seemed to get all the gems easily. I mean, besides the first one, it was like they were handed the rest and they got to the capital city in no time (probably longer than we think, but one page they’re in this elf kingdom and the next they’re in the capital). Like I feel like there could have been more, but also it was good. There was so much detail in the first half before they even found a stone, so if it continued like that it would’ve been good, but it was also a lot.
I wanted more of Kit and Nocturne!! I love them. I want them to have the best life. I wanted them to leave the pack and fight for Avalon and Hadrian and Sable, but no.
I need another book. I have to see Sable and Killian reunite. I need to figure out what’s going on with the king and Gandarian — he’s in a mask too????
Please, author, please. Write another!! I have so many questions and thoughts. I loved this book so so much.
August 14, 2022
“When you love someone, they become a part of you, like bone or blood. The impact they had on you is impossible to erase.”
― Kayla Edwards, Dreams of Ice and Iron
This one has lots of action and multiple relationships going on, all with intense feelings and dire consequences. The King is brutal enough to even want his own daughter dead. He rules with an iron fist, evil spirit and doesn't trust anyone. His own army fears him, and his appointed leaders, hate him. They see his ruthlessness, and devious ways on a daily basis, and dare not cross him, until they can't take it anymore.
Avalon has discovered an ancient relic, and inside is a captured female warrior who has been sealed into the relic. Wearing the relic, Avalon can speak to the warrior and learn her history. She desperately wants to help this woman get out of this thing and seeks whatever is needed to break the curse and save the kingdom.
I really liked the characters and wanted more in the romance of the couples, but what was written was tender and helped offset the brutality in the story.
― Kayla Edwards, Dreams of Ice and Iron
This one has lots of action and multiple relationships going on, all with intense feelings and dire consequences. The King is brutal enough to even want his own daughter dead. He rules with an iron fist, evil spirit and doesn't trust anyone. His own army fears him, and his appointed leaders, hate him. They see his ruthlessness, and devious ways on a daily basis, and dare not cross him, until they can't take it anymore.
Avalon has discovered an ancient relic, and inside is a captured female warrior who has been sealed into the relic. Wearing the relic, Avalon can speak to the warrior and learn her history. She desperately wants to help this woman get out of this thing and seeks whatever is needed to break the curse and save the kingdom.
I really liked the characters and wanted more in the romance of the couples, but what was written was tender and helped offset the brutality in the story.
July 24, 2022
This is officially a @kaylaedwardsauthor fan account.
I finished COGAM and absolutely had to jump into the other book that Kayla has put out! Dreams of Ice & Iron is the first in her Ice and Iron series — and I literally can’t wait until I get my hands on the sequel!
Kayla does multiple POVs and relationships SO WELL. I was able to take every new perspective in stride and found myself so invested in every component of this story. And this cover is 🤌
This book has:
❄️ found family
❄️ romance
❄️ slow burn
❄️ wolves, fey, elves, DRAGONS & literally every other magical element you could want
❄️ royalty
❄️ political intrigue
❄️ big reveals that are so fun to unravel
❄️ multiple POVs
❄️ battle scenes
— Literally everything I want in fantasy, this has.
If you like all of the above, I highly recommend giving this a try! 🤍
I finished COGAM and absolutely had to jump into the other book that Kayla has put out! Dreams of Ice & Iron is the first in her Ice and Iron series — and I literally can’t wait until I get my hands on the sequel!
Kayla does multiple POVs and relationships SO WELL. I was able to take every new perspective in stride and found myself so invested in every component of this story. And this cover is 🤌
This book has:
❄️ found family
❄️ romance
❄️ slow burn
❄️ wolves, fey, elves, DRAGONS & literally every other magical element you could want
❄️ royalty
❄️ political intrigue
❄️ big reveals that are so fun to unravel
❄️ multiple POVs
❄️ battle scenes
— Literally everything I want in fantasy, this has.
If you like all of the above, I highly recommend giving this a try! 🤍
September 10, 2022
Epic Fantasy Series
I really enjoyed this book, the world building and the several different story lines all melding together in the end. The strong female leads, Sable, Avalon and Nocturne who struggle for autonomy in a man's world. The evolving friendship between Avalon and Sable is inspiring and reflects the challenges that women faced in those times . Hadrian is the perfect Captain of the Guard, fearless and loyal and his devotion to Avalon is commendable. The wraith surprised me and I enjoyed his character development during the book. The brutality is harsh and confronting at times and has a slight Game of Thrones feel to it but there are sweet moments of friendship, romance and betrayal that made me re-evaluate some of the characters ulterior motives. This is definitely a series I will be reading more books from in the future.
I really enjoyed this book, the world building and the several different story lines all melding together in the end. The strong female leads, Sable, Avalon and Nocturne who struggle for autonomy in a man's world. The evolving friendship between Avalon and Sable is inspiring and reflects the challenges that women faced in those times . Hadrian is the perfect Captain of the Guard, fearless and loyal and his devotion to Avalon is commendable. The wraith surprised me and I enjoyed his character development during the book. The brutality is harsh and confronting at times and has a slight Game of Thrones feel to it but there are sweet moments of friendship, romance and betrayal that made me re-evaluate some of the characters ulterior motives. This is definitely a series I will be reading more books from in the future.
April 21, 2022
*chefs kiss* What an incredible read, Bring on book 2!!!!
I love it when you find a book that you just can’t put down. I love it even more when the story is just sooooooo different to anything else out there, is so well written and has the bones and foreshadowing for a prequel or spin off series.
This story mainly follows mortal Princess Avalon and her Fey best friend Hadrian as they embark on a quest to free The warrior Sable from the confines of a Mask that was cursed by her once mortal now Fey father and King.
If you’re a fan of Fey, Shifters, Dragons, Elves, Gods and Goddesses, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers and multiple POV please read! I’m kicking myself that I hadn’t picked it up sooner.
I love it when you find a book that you just can’t put down. I love it even more when the story is just sooooooo different to anything else out there, is so well written and has the bones and foreshadowing for a prequel or spin off series.
This story mainly follows mortal Princess Avalon and her Fey best friend Hadrian as they embark on a quest to free The warrior Sable from the confines of a Mask that was cursed by her once mortal now Fey father and King.
If you’re a fan of Fey, Shifters, Dragons, Elves, Gods and Goddesses, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers and multiple POV please read! I’m kicking myself that I hadn’t picked it up sooner.
May 10, 2022
Does not disappoint.
This was a re-read for me and it is still a 5star book.
As the first book in the series Kayla Edwards has set the stage for an absolutely phenomenal adventure.
The multiple points of view was so well done and kept me hooked throughout the whole book.
I cannot wait for book 2!
I cannot wait for all the characters to meet/ converge/ join forces and conquer the whole darn world.
I’m so excited for this series to continue and I’m invested in these characters no only as a cast but as individuals.
Not only the MC, but the whole cast have such complex and interesting backstories, I am so excited to go on this journey with them.
Goosebumps! The last few chapters all I can say is GOOSEBUMPS all over!
If you liked Kingdom of Ash, READ THIS BOOK you will not be sorry.
This was a re-read for me and it is still a 5star book.
As the first book in the series Kayla Edwards has set the stage for an absolutely phenomenal adventure.
The multiple points of view was so well done and kept me hooked throughout the whole book.
I cannot wait for book 2!
I cannot wait for all the characters to meet/ converge/ join forces and conquer the whole darn world.
I’m so excited for this series to continue and I’m invested in these characters no only as a cast but as individuals.
Not only the MC, but the whole cast have such complex and interesting backstories, I am so excited to go on this journey with them.
Goosebumps! The last few chapters all I can say is GOOSEBUMPS all over!
If you liked Kingdom of Ash, READ THIS BOOK you will not be sorry.
January 1, 2023
This book is an awesome fantasy novel and I am excited to see what book two holds but I did not feel the same addictive quality as City of Gods and Monsters.
Avalon was a sweetheart and you could tell off the bat but I am still waiting for her to bloom into a full badass as the war progresses. Sable is definitely is a baddie but we did not get to see too much of it. Only really in flashbacks! I did not like the captain as he’s block but Kit is yummy and I can’t wait to see more of him as and protective alpha hole!
Avalon was a sweetheart and you could tell off the bat but I am still waiting for her to bloom into a full badass as the war progresses. Sable is definitely is a baddie but we did not get to see too much of it. Only really in flashbacks! I did not like the captain as he’s block but Kit is yummy and I can’t wait to see more of him as and protective alpha hole!
April 7, 2025
I feel so conflicted! I loved this book. Amazing characters and such beautiful world building. I’m a Huge fan of Kayla’s writing but the ending felt so rushed for no reason. So many threads left unconnected. Even an extra 100 pages would’ve gone so far. For Sabel to not be reunited with her brother after ALL that is definitely not a “satisfying ending” as I know Kayla has called it. I know this was supposed to be a trilogy that wrapped up in one book but I hope she returns to this world some day. I have so many questions that need answers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2022
DNF. Fast paced and it has adventure but the plot just jumps around. The world building is great as a concept but poorly executed.
My main issue was the characters. Every single one felt childlike in the way they thought and the way they spoke. There’s no character development or growth. Avalon and Hadrian are just annoying as individuals and as a couple. It’s rare that I don’t finish a book but I just couldn’t. I really tried but I couldn’t get past the characters.
My main issue was the characters. Every single one felt childlike in the way they thought and the way they spoke. There’s no character development or growth. Avalon and Hadrian are just annoying as individuals and as a couple. It’s rare that I don’t finish a book but I just couldn’t. I really tried but I couldn’t get past the characters.
August 14, 2022
I had the pleasure of arc reading for this author but I am terrible at posting my reviews on time. This was an incredible and fast paced read just like her other book, City of Gods and Monsters, if you haven’t checked that one out then you should. The prose was of incredible quality, especially for an independently published work. She deserves a lot of credit for getting this far and I happy to see her gaining new readers. I hope she will have me on her arc team again! Five stars ⭐️!
December 3, 2023
4.5 stars. Excellent read! I picked this one up after reading the author’s House of Devils series. This wasn’t what I expected at all but at the same time was exactly the right book for me. I loved how the romance was a softer focus in this one and I liked how many POVs were given. The world was interesting without being confusing. This is the perfect winter read. Fae, elemental powers, enemies to lovers, wolf love interest x runt of the pack… beautiful
June 22, 2023
I picked this one up after reading the author’s House of Devils books. While different, the storyline is no less engaging. The characters are fleshed out, the pacing is excellent, the world building is unique. I believe fans of Throne of Glass, ACOTAR, Cruel Prince, and Lady of Darkness will enjoy this one! 5 ⭐️
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