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Country Saga #2
Ice Country
Dazz, a hard-edged, fun-loving Icer, likes fighting, particularly while at his favorite watering hole. However, while recovering from a particularly bad break up, his decision to engage in a brutal pubroom brawl leads to a series of events that thrust him into a dark and mysterious scandal involving King Goff, the ice country ruler. When his seven-year-old sister is abducted in the dark of night, Dazz pledges to do whatever it takes to get her back, embarking on a quest that threatens to rip apart the very fabric that's barely holding his shattered family together. Along the way he meets a group of unlikely allies in the form of a travelling group of fire country natives. Can Dazz, when joined with his best friend, Buff, and new tan-skinned friends, defeat the King and his guards before it's too late for his sister?
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2013
83 people are currently reading
947 people want to read
About the author
David Estes
80 books2,674 followersGet a FREE short story from David Estes' #1 Amazon bestselling epic fantasy series, Fatemarked, when you sign up for his mailing list: https://www.subscribepage.com/b2v6v3
David Estes has written more than 40 science fiction and fantasy books. He loves chatting with his readers, all of whom he considers to be his friends. David lives in Hawaii with his beautiful Aussie wife, Adele, his moody cats, Bailey and Luna, and his rambunctious sons, Beau and Brody.
Join 3,000+ David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite in David Estes' official fan group at:
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
Books by David Estes:
-The Fatemarked Epic- For fans of A Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and The Way of Kings! Four kingdoms. A century-old war. One ancient prophecy that could change everything.
-The Kingfall Histories- a follow up series to the #1 Amazon bestselling series, The Fatemarked Epic
-Strings- “A wonderful retelling of the Pinocchio story…I simply couldn’t put this book down.”—Rysa Walker, bestselling author of TIMEBOUND
-The Dwellers Saga and the Country Saga. Voted books to read if you enjoyed the Hunger Games on Buzzfeed and Listopia.
-Salem's Revenge trilogy- the witch apocalypse begins!
-Slip Trilogy- "Someone must die before another can be born..."
-The Adventures of Nikki Powergloves- Kid superheroes? 'Nuff said.
David Estes has written more than 40 science fiction and fantasy books. He loves chatting with his readers, all of whom he considers to be his friends. David lives in Hawaii with his beautiful Aussie wife, Adele, his moody cats, Bailey and Luna, and his rambunctious sons, Beau and Brody.
Join 3,000+ David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite in David Estes' official fan group at:
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
Books by David Estes:
-The Fatemarked Epic- For fans of A Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and The Way of Kings! Four kingdoms. A century-old war. One ancient prophecy that could change everything.
-The Kingfall Histories- a follow up series to the #1 Amazon bestselling series, The Fatemarked Epic
-Strings- “A wonderful retelling of the Pinocchio story…I simply couldn’t put this book down.”—Rysa Walker, bestselling author of TIMEBOUND
-The Dwellers Saga and the Country Saga. Voted books to read if you enjoyed the Hunger Games on Buzzfeed and Listopia.
-Salem's Revenge trilogy- the witch apocalypse begins!
-Slip Trilogy- "Someone must die before another can be born..."
-The Adventures of Nikki Powergloves- Kid superheroes? 'Nuff said.
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February 7, 2015Ice Country is out! Finally I wrote a whole novel from a guy's perspective! It took me 12 books to do it, but better late than never! I enjoyed it so much I'll be writing an entire series later this year from a male perspective :)
The story of Ice Country will be a huge contrast to Fire Country, as we leave the heat and desert and move to the snowy peaks of ice country! So grab a warm blanket, get the fire going, and enjoy the warmth while the characters freeze their snowballs off on the adventure of their lifetime!
Happy reading!
Links to buy Ice Country:
Kindle- http://www.amazon.com/Ice-Country-Sag...
Nook- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ice-c...
Smashwords- https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Print- http://www.amazon.com/Ice-Country-The...
The story of Ice Country will be a huge contrast to Fire Country, as we leave the heat and desert and move to the snowy peaks of ice country! So grab a warm blanket, get the fire going, and enjoy the warmth while the characters freeze their snowballs off on the adventure of their lifetime!
Happy reading!
Links to buy Ice Country:
Kindle- http://www.amazon.com/Ice-Country-Sag...
Nook- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ice-c...
Smashwords- https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Print- http://www.amazon.com/Ice-Country-The...
November 17, 2016
David Estes, you have once again blown my mind with your amazing talent! For the most part, I'm constantly smiling, or giggling while reading your books. Sure there are sad moments when I have tears running down my face, but mostly, I'm always really HAPPY when I have one of your books in hand (or in Nook)! Thank you for that!
First of all, I LOVED this book. Let me repeat that. I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK!!!
Ice Country is the sequel to Fire Country and starts out with Dazz, a fun-loving Icer who loves to brawl! When Dazz's little sister gets kidnapped, he embarks on a quest along with his best friend, Buff, to find and rescue her. Along his journey, he meets up with a band of Heaters from Fire Country.
As usual, Estes' descriptions have me experiencing the world of Ice Country side by side with his characters. The night I read Ice Country, I was bundled up in my blankets shivering sitting in front of my fireplace and when Dazz and Buff wander into Fire Country, the next thing I know I'm throwing off my blankets feeling as warm and hot as our beloved characters. Estes has a knack of bringing out many different emotions in me throughout his books. And as always, the antics of his characters have me bursting out laughing no matter where I'm at causing some strange looks if I'm sitting at the coffee shop!
I am so very invested in this world of Estes and can't wait to see what happens next in Water & Storm Country. Estes is pulling off an amazing feat by concluding both of his series, The Dwellers trilogy and The Country Saga, with one final book The Earth Dwellers. I, for one, cannot WAIT to see how he pulls this off! Congratulations on writing another astounding book for my favorites shelf with Ice Country!
First of all, I LOVED this book. Let me repeat that. I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK!!!
Ice Country is the sequel to Fire Country and starts out with Dazz, a fun-loving Icer who loves to brawl! When Dazz's little sister gets kidnapped, he embarks on a quest along with his best friend, Buff, to find and rescue her. Along his journey, he meets up with a band of Heaters from Fire Country.
As usual, Estes' descriptions have me experiencing the world of Ice Country side by side with his characters. The night I read Ice Country, I was bundled up in my blankets shivering sitting in front of my fireplace and when Dazz and Buff wander into Fire Country, the next thing I know I'm throwing off my blankets feeling as warm and hot as our beloved characters. Estes has a knack of bringing out many different emotions in me throughout his books. And as always, the antics of his characters have me bursting out laughing no matter where I'm at causing some strange looks if I'm sitting at the coffee shop!
I am so very invested in this world of Estes and can't wait to see what happens next in Water & Storm Country. Estes is pulling off an amazing feat by concluding both of his series, The Dwellers trilogy and The Country Saga, with one final book The Earth Dwellers. I, for one, cannot WAIT to see how he pulls this off! Congratulations on writing another astounding book for my favorites shelf with Ice Country!
June 25, 2013
Quick review:
Cover: Very Nice
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: What a masterpiece
Characters: Well Done
Plot: This time Dazz lands in trouble he can’t talk himself out of
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? YES
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Dazz
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This series heats up, or should I say cool off with another fantastic installment in this series. Here we meet Dazz who is our reluctant hero. Reluctant as he never thought himself the hero. Still, here he manages to impress me and I loved this installment.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Very Nice
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: What a masterpiece
Characters: Well Done
Plot: This time Dazz lands in trouble he can’t talk himself out of
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? YES
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Dazz
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This series heats up, or should I say cool off with another fantastic installment in this series. Here we meet Dazz who is our reluctant hero. Reluctant as he never thought himself the hero. Still, here he manages to impress me and I loved this installment.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
August 6, 2016
I liked this book less than Fire Country and I'm somewhat confused about how to rate it. I adore the author's sense of humor and whenever he made me laugh (and it was quite often, too) I was enjoying the read immensely. But then there were the serious parts and they left me wanting something more. The plot felt kind of simplistic and predictable, and maybe a tad too Young Adult for me.
I found it much harder to connect with Dazz, the main character, a hot-headed guy who was all about gambling and fighting, than with Siena from Fire Country. And my best reading experiences have always come from books when I was able to become one with the protagonist and see the story though their eyes.
Anyway, in the beginning Dazz is a reckless guy who'd pick fights just for fun,
"We stand over our fallen foes, grinning like the seventeen-year-old unemployed idiots that we are, enjoying the aliveness that always comes with winning a good, old-fashioned fair fight."
but gradually starts using his brain for a change, too
"An important decision. To fight or not to fight? Why is it that I constantly have to make this decision over and over again? My standard answer used to be fight, which I preferred, but now it's like my brain's taken over everything, and I don't know up from down."
There is barely any romance in this book, if you even can call it that. It's more like mutual attraction, and it doesn't happen until the middle of the story. The romance seemed to come out of nowhere, really, but who am I to argue? It's not like I haven't had a fair share of insta-attraction in my life.
Like in the Fire Country, I loved all the made-up curse words and lingo, they made for some very funny expressions. A little excerpt to prove;)
"A stone clatters to the floor, leaving a gap in the wall.
When I peer through, dark brown eyes stare back.
“Who in the burnin’ scorch are you?” the eyes say, as raspy as a punch to the face. “And why the scorch are you followin’ me?”
“What the chill is scorch?” I say, feeling a warm blush on my cheeks. What the chill? I’m not a blusher. I don’t blush.
“What the scorch is chill?” the icy voice says. Did I say icy? I meant raspy. Yah, just raspy.
“I’m Dazz,” I say, memories of a strong, brown-skinned girl floating through my mind. A punch to the face.
“I don’t give a burn whether yer King Goff,” the Heater girl says, which confuses me for a second, because didn’t she ask who I was? But she’s speaking so different than what I’m used to, using words that make no sense and rounding them off, almost like the curve of her hips.
“Uhh,” I say.
“Why’re you followin’ me?”
“I’m not,” I say.
“Who’re you talking to?” Buff calls.
“That Heater girl,” I reply.
“I ain’t no Heater girl,” the Heater girl says sharply. “I’m a Wild One.”
I grin. “I’m sure you are,” I say, instantly pleased with my wit.
“You are?” Buff says.
“No, you ’zard-brained baggard. Not Wild—Wilde, like with an e on the end.”
Roan’s words come back to me. The Wildes steal more and more of our women every year.
“Yah, Buff, I am. Now can you please shut your icin’ trap?” I shoot over my shoulder. I turn back to the hole in the wall and the set of mysterious brown eyes. “You’re a Wilde?” I ask stupidly, considering that’s what she just told me.
“Well, that settles it. I’m speakin’ to a searin’ fool. Sun goddess help us all.”
Well, I don’t know about the searin’ part, but the fool bit’s probably right, considering I’m in a dungeon on an impossible mission to rescue a sister who might not even be here. “Can we start over?” I say hopefully.
“Watcha mean?”
I take a deep breath. “I’m Dazz. I’m an Icer. I’m not following you.”
“Oh-ho,” the Wilde says.
“Okay, okay. I am, but not like you think. You see, my friend and me, his name’s Buff. Say hi, Buff.”
“Hi, Buff,” Buff says. The Yag.
The set of deep brown eyes just look at me and I can see what they’re thinking: his friend’s a searin’ fool too. Which is probably a fair thought to have at this point."
Just like with the previous book, I felt the ending was too rushed, like things were wrapped up too quickly. Also, I'd wanted to learn more about the Ice Country society and how it worked.
I'm going to read the next book sometime, but not very soon. Maybe try The Dwellers companion series first.
I found it much harder to connect with Dazz, the main character, a hot-headed guy who was all about gambling and fighting, than with Siena from Fire Country. And my best reading experiences have always come from books when I was able to become one with the protagonist and see the story though their eyes.
Anyway, in the beginning Dazz is a reckless guy who'd pick fights just for fun,
"We stand over our fallen foes, grinning like the seventeen-year-old unemployed idiots that we are, enjoying the aliveness that always comes with winning a good, old-fashioned fair fight."
but gradually starts using his brain for a change, too
"An important decision. To fight or not to fight? Why is it that I constantly have to make this decision over and over again? My standard answer used to be fight, which I preferred, but now it's like my brain's taken over everything, and I don't know up from down."
There is barely any romance in this book, if you even can call it that. It's more like mutual attraction, and it doesn't happen until the middle of the story. The romance seemed to come out of nowhere, really, but who am I to argue? It's not like I haven't had a fair share of insta-attraction in my life.
Like in the Fire Country, I loved all the made-up curse words and lingo, they made for some very funny expressions. A little excerpt to prove;)
"A stone clatters to the floor, leaving a gap in the wall.
When I peer through, dark brown eyes stare back.
“Who in the burnin’ scorch are you?” the eyes say, as raspy as a punch to the face. “And why the scorch are you followin’ me?”
“What the chill is scorch?” I say, feeling a warm blush on my cheeks. What the chill? I’m not a blusher. I don’t blush.
“What the scorch is chill?” the icy voice says. Did I say icy? I meant raspy. Yah, just raspy.
“I’m Dazz,” I say, memories of a strong, brown-skinned girl floating through my mind. A punch to the face.
“I don’t give a burn whether yer King Goff,” the Heater girl says, which confuses me for a second, because didn’t she ask who I was? But she’s speaking so different than what I’m used to, using words that make no sense and rounding them off, almost like the curve of her hips.
“Uhh,” I say.
“Why’re you followin’ me?”
“I’m not,” I say.
“Who’re you talking to?” Buff calls.
“That Heater girl,” I reply.
“I ain’t no Heater girl,” the Heater girl says sharply. “I’m a Wild One.”
I grin. “I’m sure you are,” I say, instantly pleased with my wit.
“You are?” Buff says.
“No, you ’zard-brained baggard. Not Wild—Wilde, like with an e on the end.”
Roan’s words come back to me. The Wildes steal more and more of our women every year.
“Yah, Buff, I am. Now can you please shut your icin’ trap?” I shoot over my shoulder. I turn back to the hole in the wall and the set of mysterious brown eyes. “You’re a Wilde?” I ask stupidly, considering that’s what she just told me.
“Well, that settles it. I’m speakin’ to a searin’ fool. Sun goddess help us all.”
Well, I don’t know about the searin’ part, but the fool bit’s probably right, considering I’m in a dungeon on an impossible mission to rescue a sister who might not even be here. “Can we start over?” I say hopefully.
“Watcha mean?”
I take a deep breath. “I’m Dazz. I’m an Icer. I’m not following you.”
“Oh-ho,” the Wilde says.
“Okay, okay. I am, but not like you think. You see, my friend and me, his name’s Buff. Say hi, Buff.”
“Hi, Buff,” Buff says. The Yag.
The set of deep brown eyes just look at me and I can see what they’re thinking: his friend’s a searin’ fool too. Which is probably a fair thought to have at this point."
Just like with the previous book, I felt the ending was too rushed, like things were wrapped up too quickly. Also, I'd wanted to learn more about the Ice Country society and how it worked.
I'm going to read the next book sometime, but not very soon. Maybe try The Dwellers companion series first.
September 24, 2014
Um...amzaballs...awesome sauce...and whatever else I'm known for, David! I have to gather my thoughts to tell everyone about your wonderful book :)
So, I'm going to be honest, it's been almost two weeks and I am still not sure how to even put into words how much I enjoyed this book; how much I enjoy David's writing and his stories. But I'm gonna try my hardest. Anyone who knows me knows that I have loved anything and everything I have ever read by Mr. Estes, so why should this book be any different, right? And I will tell you, when I received the email from David that contained the ARC, I did not wait to start it. I literally dropped everything I was doing to start reading it. I was that anxious to get into the thick of it!
Blurb from Goodreads:
Dazz, a hard-edged, fun-loving Icer, likes fighting, particularly while at his favorite watering hole. However, while recovering from a particularly bad break up, his decision to engage in a brutal pubroom brawl leads to a series of events that thrust him into a dark and mysterious scandal involving King Goff, the ice country ruler.
When his seven-year-old sister is abducted in the dark of night, Dazz pledges to do whatever it takes to get her back, embarking on a quest that threatens to rip apart the very fabric that's barely holding his shattered family together.
Along the way he meets a group of unlikely allies in the form of a travelling group of fire country natives. Can Dazz, when joined with his best friend, Buff, and new tan-skinned friends, defeat the King and his guards before it's too late for his sister?
So, you know what I probably loved most about this book, besides the cover and the fact that David wrote it and he's just amazing, it was the fact that Mr. Estes took a different approach to writing a second book in a trilogy. He went off the beaten path and started a whole new story. Now, you might think, UGH, why in the world would he do that? I mean, we ended the last book when Siena and Circ had just gotten their HEA, right? But WAIT! It's well worth it because he starts a new story and then BOOM the world of Fire Country and Ice Country COLLIDE! And they do it in such a perfect way, with such a great reason and plot line, it's impossible not to love this story.
So, you want to know what I think of this cover. Well, HELLO, I love this cover. Why do I love this cover, well, besides the fact that the amazing Regina Wamba designed it, it so perfectly puts me right in the mood to be in the middle of Ice Country. The cover immediately makes me feel cold and think about bundling up. And, what do you think it feels like in Ice Country? Think it's cold, well, take a look at the cover and you'll see! Plus it's so simple, the colors, the lone person on the front. It's just perfect.
Dazz, well, what can I say. I totally and completely love this character. He's fun and witty. He's tough and loving. Most of all, he's compassionate and fiercely loyal. All such great qualities in a main character; in a main character that you want to end up loving (which I did). His voice is very different from Siena. I actually found that he seemed more educated, perhaps because he is older than Siena when the book starts. He has such a strong will, it's hard not to root for him and his cause throughout the book; to hope that he will get the ending he wants, the one you need. Plus, I just love books told from the male POV. I so rarely see them in YA, although the trend seems to be leaning towards putting more and more of them out there.
All the characters in this book are well thought out and relatable. You really see a commitment to family and friends. And the development of each character is so easy to follow as they learn and grow and become more and more aware of the world around them.
As with all his dystopian books, David has done some amazing world building here. I love his descriptions of Ice Country. They truly made me feel cold; I'm serious, I was shivering while reading about the winds, the snow, the icicles, and anything else you think about when thinking of a really cold place. I think I needed to go and get my sweater a few times just so I could continue reading! And when the world that he had built in Fire Country collides with Ice Country, well, you can imagine that things are kicked up 100 notches and the action becomes non-stop. Every fight scene, every scene where the characters are running for lives, is vivid, so much so I really felt as if I were right there in the thick of it with them!
One of the things that I love most about David's books is his writing. David is so OCD that even his ARCs are pretty much perfect! I am not kidding. I could not really find any mistakes in them, at least none that distracted me from the story. And his descriptions, world building and character development are spot on. I really can't explain enough how much his writing literally pulls you through his books. I didn't want to put this down because I just love reading how his words jump and flow off the page.
So, if I was so taken with this book why the 4 stars you say? Well, there is a bit of insta-love, which always kind of bothers me with any book I read. And the fact that the characters so easily evade several events (I won't get into it because I don't want to spoil it) that might put them in a precarious situation without injury just seem uncharacteristic of a dystopian setting. Do characters die, yes, they do. But I just expected more death and destruction, although I'm sure I would have been very unhappy had it happened! And, because I don't do half stars, I could not give this book a perfect score. But, if I were to do half stars, this would definitely be getting the 4.5 rating from me.
So, do you want action, adventure, romance, and fun? Then you really need to pick this series up and see what amazingness David brings to the YA genre because I'm pretty sure there is no one I know that would be disappointed with reading his writing. Well played Mr. Estes, well played!
So, I'm going to be honest, it's been almost two weeks and I am still not sure how to even put into words how much I enjoyed this book; how much I enjoy David's writing and his stories. But I'm gonna try my hardest. Anyone who knows me knows that I have loved anything and everything I have ever read by Mr. Estes, so why should this book be any different, right? And I will tell you, when I received the email from David that contained the ARC, I did not wait to start it. I literally dropped everything I was doing to start reading it. I was that anxious to get into the thick of it!
Blurb from Goodreads:
Dazz, a hard-edged, fun-loving Icer, likes fighting, particularly while at his favorite watering hole. However, while recovering from a particularly bad break up, his decision to engage in a brutal pubroom brawl leads to a series of events that thrust him into a dark and mysterious scandal involving King Goff, the ice country ruler.
When his seven-year-old sister is abducted in the dark of night, Dazz pledges to do whatever it takes to get her back, embarking on a quest that threatens to rip apart the very fabric that's barely holding his shattered family together.
Along the way he meets a group of unlikely allies in the form of a travelling group of fire country natives. Can Dazz, when joined with his best friend, Buff, and new tan-skinned friends, defeat the King and his guards before it's too late for his sister?
So, you know what I probably loved most about this book, besides the cover and the fact that David wrote it and he's just amazing, it was the fact that Mr. Estes took a different approach to writing a second book in a trilogy. He went off the beaten path and started a whole new story. Now, you might think, UGH, why in the world would he do that? I mean, we ended the last book when Siena and Circ had just gotten their HEA, right? But WAIT! It's well worth it because he starts a new story and then BOOM the world of Fire Country and Ice Country COLLIDE! And they do it in such a perfect way, with such a great reason and plot line, it's impossible not to love this story.
So, you want to know what I think of this cover. Well, HELLO, I love this cover. Why do I love this cover, well, besides the fact that the amazing Regina Wamba designed it, it so perfectly puts me right in the mood to be in the middle of Ice Country. The cover immediately makes me feel cold and think about bundling up. And, what do you think it feels like in Ice Country? Think it's cold, well, take a look at the cover and you'll see! Plus it's so simple, the colors, the lone person on the front. It's just perfect.
Dazz, well, what can I say. I totally and completely love this character. He's fun and witty. He's tough and loving. Most of all, he's compassionate and fiercely loyal. All such great qualities in a main character; in a main character that you want to end up loving (which I did). His voice is very different from Siena. I actually found that he seemed more educated, perhaps because he is older than Siena when the book starts. He has such a strong will, it's hard not to root for him and his cause throughout the book; to hope that he will get the ending he wants, the one you need. Plus, I just love books told from the male POV. I so rarely see them in YA, although the trend seems to be leaning towards putting more and more of them out there.
All the characters in this book are well thought out and relatable. You really see a commitment to family and friends. And the development of each character is so easy to follow as they learn and grow and become more and more aware of the world around them.
As with all his dystopian books, David has done some amazing world building here. I love his descriptions of Ice Country. They truly made me feel cold; I'm serious, I was shivering while reading about the winds, the snow, the icicles, and anything else you think about when thinking of a really cold place. I think I needed to go and get my sweater a few times just so I could continue reading! And when the world that he had built in Fire Country collides with Ice Country, well, you can imagine that things are kicked up 100 notches and the action becomes non-stop. Every fight scene, every scene where the characters are running for lives, is vivid, so much so I really felt as if I were right there in the thick of it with them!
One of the things that I love most about David's books is his writing. David is so OCD that even his ARCs are pretty much perfect! I am not kidding. I could not really find any mistakes in them, at least none that distracted me from the story. And his descriptions, world building and character development are spot on. I really can't explain enough how much his writing literally pulls you through his books. I didn't want to put this down because I just love reading how his words jump and flow off the page.
So, if I was so taken with this book why the 4 stars you say? Well, there is a bit of insta-love, which always kind of bothers me with any book I read. And the fact that the characters so easily evade several events (I won't get into it because I don't want to spoil it) that might put them in a precarious situation without injury just seem uncharacteristic of a dystopian setting. Do characters die, yes, they do. But I just expected more death and destruction, although I'm sure I would have been very unhappy had it happened! And, because I don't do half stars, I could not give this book a perfect score. But, if I were to do half stars, this would definitely be getting the 4.5 rating from me.
So, do you want action, adventure, romance, and fun? Then you really need to pick this series up and see what amazingness David brings to the YA genre because I'm pretty sure there is no one I know that would be disappointed with reading his writing. Well played Mr. Estes, well played!
March 4, 2013
I LOVED Ice Country. A perfect second book to an already amazing first!
The new narrator, Dazz, made this book extremely enjoyable. He's just a typical, testosterone filled male who is Very quick tempered - So much fun for me to read about! He seems to get himself into the most unfortunate situations and I spent majority of the book just feeling sorry for him.
I happen to love all the new characters of Ice Country, not just Dazz. His siblings, mother and the others who he finds himself in the company of are very real. I can't say everything went exactly how I thought it would go or why some things were done the way they were, but all the adventures were very entertaining.
I also liked that the two books were linked A LOT. We see some familiar characters (not saying who) so that was exciting. Also things that happened in Fire Country effect Ice Country.
I'm really surprised I liked this book so much because the romance in this book isn't overpowering - we don't even get any until about 28% through and I found myself enjoying every single minute! That rarely happens. I like my romance. Once the flirting/romance comes though, it's there.
If you liked Fire Country, I think you'll like this one even better.
David Estes just knows how to create those captivating, original worlds that you love to get lost in! You'll definitely want this one!
The new narrator, Dazz, made this book extremely enjoyable. He's just a typical, testosterone filled male who is Very quick tempered - So much fun for me to read about! He seems to get himself into the most unfortunate situations and I spent majority of the book just feeling sorry for him.
I happen to love all the new characters of Ice Country, not just Dazz. His siblings, mother and the others who he finds himself in the company of are very real. I can't say everything went exactly how I thought it would go or why some things were done the way they were, but all the adventures were very entertaining.
I also liked that the two books were linked A LOT. We see some familiar characters (not saying who) so that was exciting. Also things that happened in Fire Country effect Ice Country.
I'm really surprised I liked this book so much because the romance in this book isn't overpowering - we don't even get any until about 28% through and I found myself enjoying every single minute! That rarely happens. I like my romance. Once the flirting/romance comes though, it's there.
If you liked Fire Country, I think you'll like this one even better.
David Estes just knows how to create those captivating, original worlds that you love to get lost in! You'll definitely want this one!
April 12, 2013
Ice Country is an amazing book two in the Country Saga! I’ll admit I was skeptical as to how Ice Country and Fire Country were going to come together but Estes continues to do some great world building that left me totally believing in his world and anticipating the awesomeness of Water and Storm Country. I loved the slang in this book and how Fire Country and Ice Country each had their own slang related to their region.
Dazz was a great main character who had strength and heart. One of my favor parts about all of Estes’ books are his strong characters with big hearts. It was also nice to see Circ, Siena, Skye, and Wilde again and get to know them a bit better through Dazz. I would love to hang out with any of them! The plot had great momentum and Dazz’s quest to find his sister was endearing and thrilling. I really love where the series is going!
I can’t wait for Water and Storm Country and even more….when it meets up with the Dweller Series. To have all these great characters in one place will be SO COOL!
Dazz was a great main character who had strength and heart. One of my favor parts about all of Estes’ books are his strong characters with big hearts. It was also nice to see Circ, Siena, Skye, and Wilde again and get to know them a bit better through Dazz. I would love to hang out with any of them! The plot had great momentum and Dazz’s quest to find his sister was endearing and thrilling. I really love where the series is going!
I can’t wait for Water and Storm Country and even more….when it meets up with the Dweller Series. To have all these great characters in one place will be SO COOL!
May 12, 2014
Plot- 8/10
Characters- 8/10
Writing- 8.5/10
World Building- 9/10
TOTAL- 8.2/10
Quickie Review- Ice Country was another solid book written by David Estes. I have read 5 of his books in the last month and have really enjoyed all of them. Ice Country follows the sory of Dazz and Buff in, well, Ice Country, and eventually, their stories connect with those of the characters in Fire Country. I will start off by saying that the plot started off slow. A completely new set of characters was introduced at the beginning, as well as a new setting, so the author took his time fleshing out his world and shaping the characters. It took a while for the story to really connect to the broader underlying plot. The first half was quite sluggish as a result, but, like he does time and time again, David enhanced the plot in the second half (right from when Dazz and Buff meet the gang from Fire Country) and built it up to yet another stunning climax. I might just call him King of Epic Climaxes from now on. The characters were pretty well done in this book. I did not like Dazz at first. He made some unbelievably stupid decisions in the opening scenes. I'm ok with stupid decisions if they are driven by emotion and/or personal reasons, but these were just, well, stupid for no reason. I warmed up to him in the end, though. Buff was a good sidekick, and their relationship reminded me in a lot of ways of Tristan and Roc in the Dwellers series- they are loyal to each other, but they also crack each other up and teas the other often. I wanted more of Siena and Circ in this novel, because what they have is a really magical thing. I wonder what difference there would have been if the author had chosen to write this from more than one perspective. I think it would have led to a great, all-encompassing view of what was going on. In terms of relationships, I will say that I do not ship Dazz and Skye too much, but I really ship Buff and Wilde. The writing was great, and I think David managed the action scenes very well, although there were some cheesy parts here and there that were a tad overkill. The world building was great- David managed the whole posing-questions-about-the-world-and-giving-answers thing nicely. I am very excited to find out about Storm Country and how that world has developed. I highly look forward to reading the next book in the Country Saga.
Characters- 8/10
Writing- 8.5/10
World Building- 9/10
TOTAL- 8.2/10
Quickie Review- Ice Country was another solid book written by David Estes. I have read 5 of his books in the last month and have really enjoyed all of them. Ice Country follows the sory of Dazz and Buff in, well, Ice Country, and eventually, their stories connect with those of the characters in Fire Country. I will start off by saying that the plot started off slow. A completely new set of characters was introduced at the beginning, as well as a new setting, so the author took his time fleshing out his world and shaping the characters. It took a while for the story to really connect to the broader underlying plot. The first half was quite sluggish as a result, but, like he does time and time again, David enhanced the plot in the second half (right from when Dazz and Buff meet the gang from Fire Country) and built it up to yet another stunning climax. I might just call him King of Epic Climaxes from now on. The characters were pretty well done in this book. I did not like Dazz at first. He made some unbelievably stupid decisions in the opening scenes. I'm ok with stupid decisions if they are driven by emotion and/or personal reasons, but these were just, well, stupid for no reason. I warmed up to him in the end, though. Buff was a good sidekick, and their relationship reminded me in a lot of ways of Tristan and Roc in the Dwellers series- they are loyal to each other, but they also crack each other up and teas the other often. I wanted more of Siena and Circ in this novel, because what they have is a really magical thing. I wonder what difference there would have been if the author had chosen to write this from more than one perspective. I think it would have led to a great, all-encompassing view of what was going on. In terms of relationships, I will say that I do not ship Dazz and Skye too much, but I really ship Buff and Wilde. The writing was great, and I think David managed the action scenes very well, although there were some cheesy parts here and there that were a tad overkill. The world building was great- David managed the whole posing-questions-about-the-world-and-giving-answers thing nicely. I am very excited to find out about Storm Country and how that world has developed. I highly look forward to reading the next book in the Country Saga.
September 9, 2013
Ice Country is the follow up sequel to one of my favorite dystopians ever, Fire Country. I wasn't sure if this one was going to live up to Fire Country. Namely because I loved the world building, the slang, and the MC, Siena so much in that book.
I shouldn't have worried! Ice Country is almost a polar opposite of Fire Country, and I loved it! We still got great world building, more amazing slang (in fact, I think I may have liked Ice Country slang even better!) and another wonderful MC character!
Dazz...oh my word, Dazz...sigh. I don't know exactly what it was about him. He's rash, has a hot temper, and thinks more with his fists than his brain. The total opposite of what I look for in a guy. But I loved it! He made me giggle a LOT. He is also loyal, and actually a big softie when it comes to things like his mother and his little sister. Awww...who can't resist that in a guy!
Dazz makes some of the dumbest decisions ever, but it sure keeps things interesting! He's lucky that he has a best friend who has more sense in his head, and tries to keep him on the straight and narrow. Not that Buff succeeds in doing it, but he sure tries!
We also get cameos from some of our favorite characters in Fire Country--Siena, Circ, and Skye, along with a few others. This is where the book just took off for me, and had me hooked with every word. I loved getting to see my favorite characters from Fire Country in the world of Ice Country. The relationships between this group of people gave us great moments of laughter, and really raised the stakes.
And just like in Fire Country, I felt just about every range of emotion. Like I said, there are lots of funny moments, and there are also some horrible heartbreaking ones. I was so sucked into the story that I really felt every single moment along with Dazz.
Nothing was what I expected, and I really had no idea what was going to happen next. I loved all the twists, and how even though they seemed to come from nowhere, they made perfect sense looking back. I love how so much of the plot and characters of Fire Country are tied into this book. We also get a few sneak peeks of things to come in the third novel!
In the end, the story ties up nicely, but there is still lots of things to come for the next installment! I felt pretty wrung dry from all the emotion, and had to seek out a hug from my hubby! This was an amazing read, and I will be reading Water & Storm Country SOON!
I shouldn't have worried! Ice Country is almost a polar opposite of Fire Country, and I loved it! We still got great world building, more amazing slang (in fact, I think I may have liked Ice Country slang even better!) and another wonderful MC character!
Dazz...oh my word, Dazz...sigh. I don't know exactly what it was about him. He's rash, has a hot temper, and thinks more with his fists than his brain. The total opposite of what I look for in a guy. But I loved it! He made me giggle a LOT. He is also loyal, and actually a big softie when it comes to things like his mother and his little sister. Awww...who can't resist that in a guy!
Dazz makes some of the dumbest decisions ever, but it sure keeps things interesting! He's lucky that he has a best friend who has more sense in his head, and tries to keep him on the straight and narrow. Not that Buff succeeds in doing it, but he sure tries!
We also get cameos from some of our favorite characters in Fire Country--Siena, Circ, and Skye, along with a few others. This is where the book just took off for me, and had me hooked with every word. I loved getting to see my favorite characters from Fire Country in the world of Ice Country. The relationships between this group of people gave us great moments of laughter, and really raised the stakes.
And just like in Fire Country, I felt just about every range of emotion. Like I said, there are lots of funny moments, and there are also some horrible heartbreaking ones. I was so sucked into the story that I really felt every single moment along with Dazz.
Nothing was what I expected, and I really had no idea what was going to happen next. I loved all the twists, and how even though they seemed to come from nowhere, they made perfect sense looking back. I love how so much of the plot and characters of Fire Country are tied into this book. We also get a few sneak peeks of things to come in the third novel!
In the end, the story ties up nicely, but there is still lots of things to come for the next installment! I felt pretty wrung dry from all the emotion, and had to seek out a hug from my hubby! This was an amazing read, and I will be reading Water & Storm Country SOON!
April 24, 2013
I got a copy for review in exchange for an honest review.
This review is based on the beta-read version, so it is entirely possible that it is even better now. I hope to update my review when I have read the current version.
I loved Fire Country and I was so excited when I got Ice country to read. The story starts off a bit slow, but end up being really amazing. Ice Country is written from a different pov than Fire Country and this is a bit confusing at the beginning. I really liked Siena as a character and was a bit disappointed when I heard she wouldn’t be the narrator of this book.
The story start of a bit slow, but when the action finally starts it keeps on going. New mysteries, but also connections with the first book are made. There is lots of action in this book and after the first few chapters the pace really picked up. I really liked how this book connected with the first book, without being a direct continuation of it.
So at the beginning I didn’t really like Dazz, also I missed Siena, because I really loved her pov and had to get used to Dazz’s pov. As the story progresses I did grew to like Dazz more and more. I did was a bit disappointed we didn’t get more of Siena as a narrator. Also the other characters are really interesting and some really have distinct personalities.
Because in this book we get to see the story from the pov of an Icer there is lots of extra world building. We learn much more about who the Icers are and how they live and how different it is from Fire country. I like getting to know more about this world, David Estes really knows how to construct awesome world and I am happy with every bit of world building we get. I still don’t have the whole picture of how earth looks like in this series, but we did get a view more pieces in this book.
To conclude: although I didn’t like this book as much as Fire Country it is still an amazing book. This book is told from Dazz’s pov and it was nice seeing things from a different pov, even though I did miss Siena’s pov. The story starts off a bit slow, but quickly increases the pace. I loved the world building and I can’t wait to learn more about the world in the next book.
This review is based on the beta-read version, so it is entirely possible that it is even better now. I hope to update my review when I have read the current version.
I loved Fire Country and I was so excited when I got Ice country to read. The story starts off a bit slow, but end up being really amazing. Ice Country is written from a different pov than Fire Country and this is a bit confusing at the beginning. I really liked Siena as a character and was a bit disappointed when I heard she wouldn’t be the narrator of this book.
The story start of a bit slow, but when the action finally starts it keeps on going. New mysteries, but also connections with the first book are made. There is lots of action in this book and after the first few chapters the pace really picked up. I really liked how this book connected with the first book, without being a direct continuation of it.
So at the beginning I didn’t really like Dazz, also I missed Siena, because I really loved her pov and had to get used to Dazz’s pov. As the story progresses I did grew to like Dazz more and more. I did was a bit disappointed we didn’t get more of Siena as a narrator. Also the other characters are really interesting and some really have distinct personalities.
Because in this book we get to see the story from the pov of an Icer there is lots of extra world building. We learn much more about who the Icers are and how they live and how different it is from Fire country. I like getting to know more about this world, David Estes really knows how to construct awesome world and I am happy with every bit of world building we get. I still don’t have the whole picture of how earth looks like in this series, but we did get a view more pieces in this book.
To conclude: although I didn’t like this book as much as Fire Country it is still an amazing book. This book is told from Dazz’s pov and it was nice seeing things from a different pov, even though I did miss Siena’s pov. The story starts off a bit slow, but quickly increases the pace. I loved the world building and I can’t wait to learn more about the world in the next book.
May 25, 2014
Let me start off by saying that this book was great. Ice Country sounds like my kind of place (Canada!) and so I was really interested to see how Estes would present the world of snow and ice through the eyes of a male - Dazz. Oh, dazzling Dazz. The short tempered Icer who is our new MC. For some reason.. I never grew attached to Dazz until I was 3/4 of the book in which is unusual for a David Estes book. I liked the story but I didn't get the same emotional pull like I did with the four previous books before this one. Perhaps it's because it was told by a strong willed guy who has to be brawny for his crumbling family but I just got this sense of almost agitation towards Dazz.
HOWEVER, that was in the beginning. I loved Dazz and Buff's relationship (it reminded me a lot of Tristan and Roc) but they were unique and different in their own way.
The story was interesting, Dazz's little sister is taken and boy oh boy. You do not touch a hair on Dazz's little sisters head and get to walk away with it. I LOVED the big brother protecting little sister edge the story had - it made me actually like Dazz more than I did before. Eventually the story leads up to the The Heaters and I really liked how the pieces came together. They learn to work together, fight together and protect each other. It was beautiful symmetry how the stories aligned in order to intersect one another.
HOWEVER, that was in the beginning. I loved Dazz and Buff's relationship (it reminded me a lot of Tristan and Roc) but they were unique and different in their own way.
The story was interesting, Dazz's little sister is taken and boy oh boy. You do not touch a hair on Dazz's little sisters head and get to walk away with it. I LOVED the big brother protecting little sister edge the story had - it made me actually like Dazz more than I did before. Eventually the story leads up to the The Heaters and I really liked how the pieces came together. They learn to work together, fight together and protect each other. It was beautiful symmetry how the stories aligned in order to intersect one another.
May 9, 2015
Whenever I pick up one of Estes books, it doesn't seem long before I'm on the last page, excited to read the next one. Ice Country was no exception. It took me a little while to warm up to Dazz. At first I just thought he was a total waster but he turned out to be pretty cool. The people of Ice Country are much better off than the ones in Fire Country but I didn't feel the story really hit it's stride until the two met. I loved all the interaction in the dungeon. I even think this could be read as a standalone although I would recommend reading Fire Country to get all the background information. A great book.
March 18, 2013
EXCITED
I can't say more about the book yet but the bold word above says what I am feeling right at this moment.
#Kudos
I can't say more about the book yet but the bold word above says what I am feeling right at this moment.
#Kudos
February 25, 2013
Review to Come. Rating subject to change when I have my hands on a final ARC.
April 11, 2013
Oh my! There are many authors out there, there are few authors who write one blockbuster and there are even fewer authors who just keep writing blockbuster after blockbuster. Think about it, what authors have you read consistently because their books are just that good? Ah, you’re list just dwindled a bit, didn’t it? Well, it’s amazing how David Estes lit a flame with his Evolution series and there’s no water out there that’s near to suffocating his literary inferno which includes his latest, Ice Country!
The characters that David Estes has come up, the just right description in his story, action scenes that make you forget to breath as your flipping page after page totally intent in the story just makes me hungry for his next adventure. Just when you think he’s gone his fullest with story and anything else left will be just fluff, WOOSH! That’s the sound of the rug being pulled out from under your feet with a MAJOR turning point.
If you haven’t read Fire Country, I highly suggest you read it first. The story of Ice Country is full of characters and references from Fire Country. To get the complete understanding and impact of the intertwined story, you must read that first or you will not only be a bit confused, you will lose much of the meanings peppered throughout the book.
Ice Country introduces you to a society that corresponds time wise with Fire Country. You learn the Ice Country ways, their districts, habits, and hardships while going feet first into a story of loss, family, friendship, betrayal and love. Love…love of family, love of friends, love of life, love of the heart. You feel the characters coming off the page and working their magic as if they are right there before your eyes.
Not only do you have a combination of Ice Country and Fire Country, but there are references to the Glassies and you are introduced to The Stormers. Introduced…it’s more like tossed into a blizzard with them. That part of the story is so well written that it amazes me that the author has not been snatched up by one of the big publishing houses. You go from reading a really good story to feeling like you are right there in the middle of the hellish battle.
Do I recommend this story? Seriously? Yes! I recommend this to everyone. This is a story that anyone could get caught up into and with nobody finishing unsatisfied. Next up in the Country Saga is book 3, Water & Storm Country, on June 7, 2013. Ooooo…..that’s less than three months away! Awesome!
The characters that David Estes has come up, the just right description in his story, action scenes that make you forget to breath as your flipping page after page totally intent in the story just makes me hungry for his next adventure. Just when you think he’s gone his fullest with story and anything else left will be just fluff, WOOSH! That’s the sound of the rug being pulled out from under your feet with a MAJOR turning point.
If you haven’t read Fire Country, I highly suggest you read it first. The story of Ice Country is full of characters and references from Fire Country. To get the complete understanding and impact of the intertwined story, you must read that first or you will not only be a bit confused, you will lose much of the meanings peppered throughout the book.
Ice Country introduces you to a society that corresponds time wise with Fire Country. You learn the Ice Country ways, their districts, habits, and hardships while going feet first into a story of loss, family, friendship, betrayal and love. Love…love of family, love of friends, love of life, love of the heart. You feel the characters coming off the page and working their magic as if they are right there before your eyes.
Not only do you have a combination of Ice Country and Fire Country, but there are references to the Glassies and you are introduced to The Stormers. Introduced…it’s more like tossed into a blizzard with them. That part of the story is so well written that it amazes me that the author has not been snatched up by one of the big publishing houses. You go from reading a really good story to feeling like you are right there in the middle of the hellish battle.
Do I recommend this story? Seriously? Yes! I recommend this to everyone. This is a story that anyone could get caught up into and with nobody finishing unsatisfied. Next up in the Country Saga is book 3, Water & Storm Country, on June 7, 2013. Ooooo…..that’s less than three months away! Awesome!
August 28, 2013
First, I gotta say it's very weird that there is a land that is covered in snow year round directly beside a scorching hot desert. It doesn't make sense but the story is good so I'll forgive the author for that little bit of crazy. With that out of the way, I'll continue.
May 15, 2014
Ice Country is the second novel in the Country Saga. This story follows Dazz, an icer with anger issues. After a bar fight, he becomes banned from his favorite bar unless he pays it back. Instead of looking for a job, he decides to go gamble with his best friend. He ends up losing all his money, plus some, and has to work for the king. He feels he hit the jackpot, until he realizes the type of person the king is and his sister goes missing. He becomes determined to find her and runs into Siena, Skye and Wilde from Fire Country.
I really enjoyed this story! I thought it was really well-written and David knows how to make us sympathize with the characters. Dazz may have been stupid in the beginning, but money can make anyone stupid. I loved following him and seeing how determined he was to help his family.
The banter and the relationship between Dazz and Buff was so fun. They were close and made me long for a friendship like theirs. If one is in trouble, then they both are. They've got each others backs.
It seems like most of the leaders in David's books are power-crazy maniacs. This story is no exception. King Goff is insane and was incredibly selfish. He only looked out for himself, nobody else.
Personally, I think Dazz and Skye are perfect for each other. They both are kind of angry people, but not so much when they're together. They've got a lot in common and seem to be really compatible. I also loved Buff and Wilde together. It was so much fun seeing two couples from two different worlds get together. It also shows some of Siena and Circ's relationship.
Normally, I really dislike the changing of main characters in a series, but it worked in this. It showed how different worlds were living, and seeing two worlds colliding. We couldn't have gotten the same experience if it would've continued to be from Siena's POV, instead of Dazz's.
I really enjoyed this story! I thought it was really well-written and David knows how to make us sympathize with the characters. Dazz may have been stupid in the beginning, but money can make anyone stupid. I loved following him and seeing how determined he was to help his family.
The banter and the relationship between Dazz and Buff was so fun. They were close and made me long for a friendship like theirs. If one is in trouble, then they both are. They've got each others backs.
It seems like most of the leaders in David's books are power-crazy maniacs. This story is no exception. King Goff is insane and was incredibly selfish. He only looked out for himself, nobody else.
Personally, I think Dazz and Skye are perfect for each other. They both are kind of angry people, but not so much when they're together. They've got a lot in common and seem to be really compatible. I also loved Buff and Wilde together. It was so much fun seeing two couples from two different worlds get together. It also shows some of Siena and Circ's relationship.
Normally, I really dislike the changing of main characters in a series, but it worked in this. It showed how different worlds were living, and seeing two worlds colliding. We couldn't have gotten the same experience if it would've continued to be from Siena's POV, instead of Dazz's.
November 25, 2013
Dazz and his buddy, Buff, enjoy causing bar fights. It's one of the things they're well known for, and Dazz is even proud of it. Fighting is so engrained into Dazz that it's one of his first responses in a stressful situation. But he finds himself having to retrain this response when his sister is kidnapped and he has to find out who it was.
Meanwhile, he's investigating the reason some brown-skinned folks from Fire Country are prowling around on the mountain. Little does he know, they're missing a little sister also.
Although we follow Dazz in this second novel, Siena, Circ, Skye, Wilde, and Feve still take a prominent role in the story. As I was reading, I thought I'd be disappointed I wouldn't get to read about them anymore, but I was happy to find new friends in Dazz and Buff, and their friends: Abe, Hightower, and others.
The story itself wasn't as engrossing as the first novel in that we didn't get to dive into the culture of the people the way we did with the Heaters, but we got to learn a lot about Dazz and his family and friends quite a bit. I found I would've liked to know more about the culture of the people and the background of the royal family. This doesn't detract from the story at all and is more of a personal preference for me.
I liked hearing about how they travel using sled dogs, similar to how the Inuit people in Alaska did. I thought that was a nice touch. I also liked hearing about the sliders they use on their feet to get around quickly and easily. I imagined these to be devices kind of like skates, but are shaped like sleds instead. I still can't figure out how they maneuvered uphill, so I just put a sprinkle of magic into it. Or maybe just leg power.
Meanwhile, he's investigating the reason some brown-skinned folks from Fire Country are prowling around on the mountain. Little does he know, they're missing a little sister also.
Although we follow Dazz in this second novel, Siena, Circ, Skye, Wilde, and Feve still take a prominent role in the story. As I was reading, I thought I'd be disappointed I wouldn't get to read about them anymore, but I was happy to find new friends in Dazz and Buff, and their friends: Abe, Hightower, and others.
The story itself wasn't as engrossing as the first novel in that we didn't get to dive into the culture of the people the way we did with the Heaters, but we got to learn a lot about Dazz and his family and friends quite a bit. I found I would've liked to know more about the culture of the people and the background of the royal family. This doesn't detract from the story at all and is more of a personal preference for me.
I liked hearing about how they travel using sled dogs, similar to how the Inuit people in Alaska did. I thought that was a nice touch. I also liked hearing about the sliders they use on their feet to get around quickly and easily. I imagined these to be devices kind of like skates, but are shaped like sleds instead. I still can't figure out how they maneuvered uphill, so I just put a sprinkle of magic into it. Or maybe just leg power.
June 23, 2013
I did like this book but I thought that Fire Country was way better.
Dazz as a character was hard for me to read. I didn't like him. I thought he was lazy, rash, and his decision making skills were horrible. I felt bad for Buff most of the time cause he always got caught up in Dazz's mess. Maybe I'm just bias because most of the books I read have female leads...
I did appreciate the plot development. The story did start our very slow and I was trying to figure where the author was going. But once it got into the groove it was non-stop action/drama. I was very happy that my fire country peeps made a cameo. But it wasn't enough! I also learned more about the different countries being portrayed but the picture is still not clear. The lands seem so close to have such different weather patterns. Maybe the next installment will give more insight. I'm not sure if the cliffhanger was strong enough to get me to read the next book. Especially since it will be about yet another character. (I don't like that)
The little brown skinned children part hit a nerve for me too. Very uncomfortable for me to read that since the very real history of that happening to my ancestors.
I'm going to give this book 3.5 stars for the plot. It was entertaining. Lost points on my personal dislike of the main character.
I hope there will be another Sierra-centered novel in the future. I missed being in her head!
Dazz as a character was hard for me to read. I didn't like him. I thought he was lazy, rash, and his decision making skills were horrible. I felt bad for Buff most of the time cause he always got caught up in Dazz's mess. Maybe I'm just bias because most of the books I read have female leads...
I did appreciate the plot development. The story did start our very slow and I was trying to figure where the author was going. But once it got into the groove it was non-stop action/drama. I was very happy that my fire country peeps made a cameo. But it wasn't enough! I also learned more about the different countries being portrayed but the picture is still not clear. The lands seem so close to have such different weather patterns. Maybe the next installment will give more insight. I'm not sure if the cliffhanger was strong enough to get me to read the next book. Especially since it will be about yet another character. (I don't like that)
The little brown skinned children part hit a nerve for me too. Very uncomfortable for me to read that since the very real history of that happening to my ancestors.
I'm going to give this book 3.5 stars for the plot. It was entertaining. Lost points on my personal dislike of the main character.
I hope there will be another Sierra-centered novel in the future. I missed being in her head!
August 17, 2013
I had some trouble getting into this at the beginning, in part because I was a little sad that the characters from Fire Country weren't back to star here, but once I sat down and accepted that there was probably a good reason that they weren't there, I really enjoyed Ice Country, though not quite as much as I'd hoped.
I think for me the slang was a lot less believable than in Fire Country, but I was still interested in the characters and their progression. I did wish that somewhere in this book I would have been able to figure out the connection to the Dwellers books, but that was saved for later on. It was worth the wait, but I was very curious during this book.
I liked the idea that such different realms could coexist nearly side-by-side. Having a hot desert next to such an icy place is unique, and it reminds me a little of Nevada -- super hot at ground level, but if you go up one of the nearby mountains, there's snow.
Definitely worth giving this one a try, but make sure you've read Fire Country first, or a lot of things will end up being confusing and less meaningful.
I think for me the slang was a lot less believable than in Fire Country, but I was still interested in the characters and their progression. I did wish that somewhere in this book I would have been able to figure out the connection to the Dwellers books, but that was saved for later on. It was worth the wait, but I was very curious during this book.
I liked the idea that such different realms could coexist nearly side-by-side. Having a hot desert next to such an icy place is unique, and it reminds me a little of Nevada -- super hot at ground level, but if you go up one of the nearby mountains, there's snow.
Definitely worth giving this one a try, but make sure you've read Fire Country first, or a lot of things will end up being confusing and less meaningful.
September 16, 2013
Once again, can't say enough about the wonderful writing of David Estes!
I loved the 2nd book in "The Country Saga" as much as I did the first.
Characters: You meet Dazz a rough and tumble kind of guy who likes to fight. Along with his best friend Buff, they fight their way against unbeatable odds to free his sister. Estes writes characters that you can easily fall into. Even when you think the plot should be getting stagnant, he uses character building to help keep the excitement going.
Setting: Forgiving the fact that Ice and Fire Countries are right next to each other that it just doesn't seem possible. Estes creates a world that is very believable. How people live and travel in Ice Country is just like you would expect. I personally have never lived in a place with a lot of now, it is hard for me to imagine this, but through his amazing description I can see how it all would work.
Plot: My standard response here. Read David Estes's write-up on this book. He gives you the information that he wants you to know so that no spoilers are given by me.
Overall Icing Amazing!! Can't wait to see how it all will end!
I loved the 2nd book in "The Country Saga" as much as I did the first.
Characters: You meet Dazz a rough and tumble kind of guy who likes to fight. Along with his best friend Buff, they fight their way against unbeatable odds to free his sister. Estes writes characters that you can easily fall into. Even when you think the plot should be getting stagnant, he uses character building to help keep the excitement going.
Setting: Forgiving the fact that Ice and Fire Countries are right next to each other that it just doesn't seem possible. Estes creates a world that is very believable. How people live and travel in Ice Country is just like you would expect. I personally have never lived in a place with a lot of now, it is hard for me to imagine this, but through his amazing description I can see how it all would work.
Plot: My standard response here. Read David Estes's write-up on this book. He gives you the information that he wants you to know so that no spoilers are given by me.
Overall Icing Amazing!! Can't wait to see how it all will end!
May 12, 2013
WHATSUP ERRYBODY? i know i sound ridiculous, but that's partially why dave likes me as a beta :) haha
anyways, this is the second installment in the Country Saga, as if you didn't already know. this time, we don't follow the Fire Country girl Sierra, we follow Dazz, a boy from the Ice Country, a rough-and-tough guy whose little sister is kidnapped and ends up working for the Ice King, Goff.
of course, there's more than meets the eye, and Dazz, along with his bff Buff, discover some hidden secrets that involve the Ice and Fire Country.
there's also appearances of the old FC peeps, and more friendship/romance stuff going on :) the teamwork that evolves is fabulous, and the character development that occurs as a result is even better! i absolutely loved this one, though maybe not as much as the first (probably because i like Sierra's voice better than Dazz. not to say that I dislike Dazz, but you get my gist).
4/5 stars and a GREAT cliffhanger that will leave you wanting the 3rd and final book (which, lucky for you, is coming soon!)
anyways, this is the second installment in the Country Saga, as if you didn't already know. this time, we don't follow the Fire Country girl Sierra, we follow Dazz, a boy from the Ice Country, a rough-and-tough guy whose little sister is kidnapped and ends up working for the Ice King, Goff.
of course, there's more than meets the eye, and Dazz, along with his bff Buff, discover some hidden secrets that involve the Ice and Fire Country.
there's also appearances of the old FC peeps, and more friendship/romance stuff going on :) the teamwork that evolves is fabulous, and the character development that occurs as a result is even better! i absolutely loved this one, though maybe not as much as the first (probably because i like Sierra's voice better than Dazz. not to say that I dislike Dazz, but you get my gist).
4/5 stars and a GREAT cliffhanger that will leave you wanting the 3rd and final book (which, lucky for you, is coming soon!)
May 31, 2013
I just love David’s books! I’m constantly smiling, laughing, crying, and anticipating the next plot twist with characters so believable they feel like old friends. Ice Country is no exception. Dazz is stubborn, tough, determined, honest, and the best brother/friend you could ask for. Buff is his loyal best friend and sidekick. I also love that the Tri-Tribes crossed over into this book!
Overall, I went on one wild and crazy adventure with Sienna and Circ again with Wes, Feve, Wilde, and Skye along for ride. Skye really surprised me and her relationship with Dazz is exciting, genuine, and sweet in its own way! This book is ACTION PACKED, too! I was constantly flipping pages faster and faster as the fighting gained intensity. The world building is fantastic as always and the plot twists constantly surprise me. I cannot wait to continue on my journey with this great group of friends and warriors. Amazing job David Estes!
Overall, I went on one wild and crazy adventure with Sienna and Circ again with Wes, Feve, Wilde, and Skye along for ride. Skye really surprised me and her relationship with Dazz is exciting, genuine, and sweet in its own way! This book is ACTION PACKED, too! I was constantly flipping pages faster and faster as the fighting gained intensity. The world building is fantastic as always and the plot twists constantly surprise me. I cannot wait to continue on my journey with this great group of friends and warriors. Amazing job David Estes!
May 12, 2013
Once again David Estes has leveled me to a blubbering mess. I love, love, love this world. I am so enraptured with these characters and the world David has created. Ice Country is so good! I really wish I could come up with this brilliant review that would get everyone to read this sister series to The Dwellers. I just don't have the right words. What I loved best about this one was that we saw some of our faves from Fire Country and were prepped for Water & Storm Country.
I can't wait to see what happens next!!
I can't wait to see what happens next!!
April 22, 2013
Oh David!!! Why do you do this to me?? I can't even begin to imagine how it is possible that you just keep coming up with these incredible books! This story was heartpounding, action, adventure, and the famous David Estes romance! I love the romance in your books. So sweet and, the only other word I can think of is dreamy!
I wish I could give this more than 5 stars! Another amazing book by the Great Mr. Estes!
I wish I could give this more than 5 stars! Another amazing book by the Great Mr. Estes!
December 5, 2013
Somewhat predictable in the sense that it follows a similar pattern to the first book which of course maintains it's amazing consistency and familiarity.
On the whole though it grabbed me and hooked me and I love the characters and I feel for them in every twist and turn.
Another spectacular book from David Estes... YOU MUST ALL READ HIS STUFF!!!! AWESOMESAUCE!!!
On the whole though it grabbed me and hooked me and I love the characters and I feel for them in every twist and turn.
Another spectacular book from David Estes... YOU MUST ALL READ HIS STUFF!!!! AWESOMESAUCE!!!
May 6, 2013
Even better than the last. Love the new characters and the way this novel intertwines with Fire Country. Another well scripted Novel from David Estes.
I cannot wait for the next one as well as the next Dwellers series to see how well these sister series continue to play out.
I cannot wait for the next one as well as the next Dwellers series to see how well these sister series continue to play out.
May 24, 2013
http://divainpyjamas.blogspot.com.au/...
Currently, David is my favourite author by far and I love escaping to the harsh, dystopian worlds he creates... And I'm not above groveling for an advanced copy of the next book in either series.
Currently, David is my favourite author by far and I love escaping to the harsh, dystopian worlds he creates... And I'm not above groveling for an advanced copy of the next book in either series.
February 17, 2013
Of course, I've read a version that hasn't yet been completely polished and revised, so maybe it's not entirely fair to rate it yet. But I'll go with 4 for now ;)
September 25, 2013
There are seven novels in David Estes Dwellers/Countries universe. I’m read two of each. (The seventh is supposed to tie everything together.)
The four I've read are very good and highly recommended. I think you could start with either setting, as long as you know the basic premise – that a meteor destroyed most of life on earth.
Part of the survivors live using technology underground. (That’s the Dwellers). The other half live various “countries” on the surface with no technology . I can’t remember even worked metal aboveground. Neither the underground or surface people know the other exists.
“Ice Country” takes place, obviously in constantly cold and snow-covered mountains. Its king – a very unpleasant fellow – trades with Fire Country, the desert at the base of the mountains.
To me, the biggest surprise of the book was its protagonist. He’s male. I went back and looked at the last 20 or so YA books I’ve read. Some had alternating male/female viewpoints. But only two had male lead characters.
Estes’ s is young man named Dazz. He and his best friend, Buff, start as brawlers and gamblers. I think because of that, Dazz’s early voice is older than a 17-year-old. I don’t know if that’s bad in a YA novel. But it will take some readers by surprise. (After a while, especially once Dazz falls in love, his voice drops to the conventional age.)
After one of those brawls, Dazz and Buzz get thrown out a bar. They end up trying to gamble to the money back, When they lose, they’re conscripted into what seems like an easy job – dragging logs downhill. Then they become all but slaves – pushing the logs downhill, where the logs – and the contents of a secret bag – are traded to Fire Country leaders. Then Dazz and Buzz lug trade goods uphill. They’re told not to ask questions. People who do end up dead.
Then Dazz’s sister is kidnapped in a midnight raid.
Three of the major themes of YA literature are the quest, the mystery and the rescue. Ice Country has all three – the mystery of the king’s trade, the quest to find Dazz’s sister and her rescue. (On the way, Dazz and Buzz team up with some Fire Dwellers who are on their own quest.)
All three plot elements mix together nicely. We even get a quick glance at Storm Country people in a climactic battle at the king’s castle.
It’s a very good second book of the trilogy – better than the second of the Dwellers trilogy because it introduces a whole new world.
Estes is quite wonderful at world building. I look forward to exploring more.
The four I've read are very good and highly recommended. I think you could start with either setting, as long as you know the basic premise – that a meteor destroyed most of life on earth.
Part of the survivors live using technology underground. (That’s the Dwellers). The other half live various “countries” on the surface with no technology . I can’t remember even worked metal aboveground. Neither the underground or surface people know the other exists.
“Ice Country” takes place, obviously in constantly cold and snow-covered mountains. Its king – a very unpleasant fellow – trades with Fire Country, the desert at the base of the mountains.
To me, the biggest surprise of the book was its protagonist. He’s male. I went back and looked at the last 20 or so YA books I’ve read. Some had alternating male/female viewpoints. But only two had male lead characters.
Estes’ s is young man named Dazz. He and his best friend, Buff, start as brawlers and gamblers. I think because of that, Dazz’s early voice is older than a 17-year-old. I don’t know if that’s bad in a YA novel. But it will take some readers by surprise. (After a while, especially once Dazz falls in love, his voice drops to the conventional age.)
After one of those brawls, Dazz and Buzz get thrown out a bar. They end up trying to gamble to the money back, When they lose, they’re conscripted into what seems like an easy job – dragging logs downhill. Then they become all but slaves – pushing the logs downhill, where the logs – and the contents of a secret bag – are traded to Fire Country leaders. Then Dazz and Buzz lug trade goods uphill. They’re told not to ask questions. People who do end up dead.
Then Dazz’s sister is kidnapped in a midnight raid.
Three of the major themes of YA literature are the quest, the mystery and the rescue. Ice Country has all three – the mystery of the king’s trade, the quest to find Dazz’s sister and her rescue. (On the way, Dazz and Buzz team up with some Fire Dwellers who are on their own quest.)
All three plot elements mix together nicely. We even get a quick glance at Storm Country people in a climactic battle at the king’s castle.
It’s a very good second book of the trilogy – better than the second of the Dwellers trilogy because it introduces a whole new world.
Estes is quite wonderful at world building. I look forward to exploring more.
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