A Lord of Snow and Greed

The Winter Court #2

by Ashley McLeo

What will Neve's answer be?
Why did Warden Roar run?
Can Prince Vale be trusted?

Learn all this and more in the sequel to A Kingdom of Frost and Malice!

Genres: Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Romantasy, Fae, Romance, Vampires, Magic

766 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 26, 2024

About the author

Ashley lives in the lush and green Pacific Northwest with her husband, their dog, and the house ghost that sometimes makes appearances in her charming, old home.
When she’s not writing urban fantasy and portal fantasy novels she enjoys traveling the world, reading, kicking butt at board games (she recommends Splendor and Dominion), and frequenting taquerias.
For all the latest releases and updates, subscribe to Ashley’s newsletter, The Coven, today!

Reviews

[madison · Rating 2 out of 5]

well well well !!! that was…..definitely a book!!! i did enjoy reading this and flew through it. the plot itself has a lot of potential as well as (some) unique elements. i still stand by my review of the first book: not in love with the way this was written and i do nottttt care about these characters. part of it is that there’s so many random google generated fantasy names that i can’t remember who is who. all side characters had the same generic personality (he’s good looking AND a flirt?! the shy friend is now….bold??!! 😧). there was a litttttle more chemistry between vale and neve in this book but i still didn’t love their relationship. the progression of their relationship felt very choppy and nonsensical (but what didn’t in this book)

this book was only the tiniest bit less predictable than the first one. of course neve is a falk and of courseeeee vale finds out he’s NOT a falk lol. who would’ve thought😀

truly not sure why the conclusion was all about roar?? neve barely cares about him leaving. the scepter was important i get the confrontation, but that ending was ???? don’t y’all have more important things to do than bust roar’s illegal slave trade.

on the bright side, vale miraculously changed his pov on life that he’s had for 20+ years, over night, and is ready to betray his fake daddy! whoop whoop

2 stars but i really did like it.

[Desiree · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️

A Lord of Snow and Greed picks up immediately after the events of A Lingdom of Frost and Malice. Ashley McLeo does a fantastic job of recapping the previous book as you read this sequel. And not in an overt way, just in passing as situations happen. I was so thankful for this because I could not remember many of the details, so this was super helpful.

Whereas A Kingdom of Frost and Malice gave me ACOTAR vibes, A Lord of Snow and Greed gave me Ashes and the Star-Cursed King vibes (without giving too much away).

This book is thick, but honestly, I feel like I flew through most of it. I enjoyed discovering the castle more, learning a little bit more about side characters such as Rhistel, and seeing Neve grow into her own. I missed Saga having a bigger role and am hoping to see more of her in book 3!

The ending was so good and revealing. I feel like we got some closure from events that occurred in book 1 and I am so excited to see how this story continues!

What you can expect:
✨Marriage of convenience
✨Dual POV
✨Found family
✨Unknown identity
✨Revenge
✨Self discovery
✨Spice 🌶️

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just discovered this series recently, and let me tell you that it’s worth 👏🏻 your 👏🏻 time 👏🏻 If you want a series that fully emerges you into a world of fantasy and romance, then read this book series! Ashley’s world building is fantastic, and her characters are relatable and lovable. Couldn’t put this book down. Already ready for book three!

[Jessica S · Rating 3 out of 5]

So predictable 🙄

[Jenya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This had too many characters. I loved the main 5 but beyond that it was just too many names. Plot moved along nicely and a ton of great spice in this one! (Book 1 only had kissing). Some twists and turns and a surprising ending. Enjoyable, but I skimmed a bit in the 2nd half.

[Madissen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get the privilege to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Please note, receiving ARC copies does not sway my review or feelings in any way. I rated the first book in this series 4 stars- it was nicely paced, high stakes, plot twists and well developed characters. There was plenty of action and hardly a dull moment. This book however, unfortunately didn’t hit the mark for me.

I couldn’t invest much in the storyline. I found myself growing bored and had to push towards the end to get it finished. A lot of new information was presented in this book, from getting to know the characters to world building, a lot of topics were covered. This answered some questions left unanswered from the first book and while information is a good thing, to me that’s all this book was. Focusing more on information and characters pasts- especially Neve’s.
It has very little action and adventure to the point it becomes boring and repetitive at times. There was also a short time when we discovered that Neve and Vale were related (until that was deemed untrue chapters later)…the timing to find this out was just a big no from me (and this being in the book at all to be frank) finding out after Neve and Vale start to develop loving feelings for each other and are almost physically intimate…absolutely not. It ended up being untrue anyway so it really left me wondering what the point of even including that in the first place was- the only purpose I could see was some drama. It just didn’t sit right.

Between that and all the info, I was left fighting to finish this. The information will be vital to the next book and left for a good set up. The twists were unpredictable and the information presented was interesting but it wasn’t enough to carry the book. I just wish the book was more than it was…needed more action in balance with the information.

[Samantha Lynn ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC READER REVIEW*

I loved this so much more than the first one !!! It picks up right where we left off in A Kingdom of Frost and Malice with Vale proposing to Neve (for protection from the vampire kingdom buuuut they end up falling in love which I wouldn’t have any other way) . We find out more about Neve and her ancestry in this book while also discovering some secrets about Vale and his family/ancestry .

I love the dual pov (I’m a sucker for a good dual pov) & THE SPICE WAS IMMACULATE . I can’t wait to see where the spice goes in book three !! The found family/chosen family & “my wife” tropes were used beautifully in this story , & I honestly can’t wait to see how they continue to blossom , along with Neve (or should I say Isolde) & Vale’s love story !! AND BYE BYE ROAR YOU LYING SCUM 👏🏻👏🏻 I was on the edge of my seat , reading the last few chapters until he died . So glad he’s gone !

If you haven’t read A Kingdom of Frost and Malice(out now) or A Lord of Snow and Greed(out March 26th 2024) & you like the politics and court/magic systems of Game of Thrones and Throne of Glass , I highly recommend these books !! I can’t wait to see how the story ends in book 3 !!

[Jesica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story so so much! This is the second book to A kingdom of Frost malice.
Neve has killed a vampire prince. The same vampires that kept her as a blood slave since she was found when she was two. Now faced with a choice to marry this famed prince of Winter’s Realm whom she knows not much about or run and take her chances with the vampires catching up to her?

Why did the snake of a Warden Roar run? What does he have to hide? Does Neve drink his part of the deal to cause him pain since he betrayed her and broke their deal? Will the king punish Neve for possibly starting a war between the vampires and far? Can she trust Vale to keep her save? Will she ever truly be free? Why does the castle talk to her? And what is the price to be paid for saving her best friend? Why does the Drassil Tree react and talk to Neve the way it does? So so many questions! So so many secrets this kingdom has, which ones will be revealed and how many questions will be answered?

I absolutely loved how we got both Neve and Vale’s perspectives it made me absolutely love and adore them so so much more! The tension between the two was so good! I loved how so much came to a full circle but also how it leaves you wanting so so much more!! What an amazing adventure!! I cannot wait to see how everything comes together!! I can NOT wait for the third book!
I highly recommend you to read this book if you love fantasy -romance -twist - secrets -coming into self MFC -funny banter -cruel king -steamy romance -vampires -fae -marriage of convenience -beautiful magical system -amazing descriptions of the land, structures of the places -creatures (oh I how I wanted to peek in the book to see them in person).

Grab a copy of A Lord of Snow and Greed today you won’t be disappointed!!

[FloofyMooseReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Winter Court series, which is part of the author’s Crowns of Magic world. This book sees the FMC forced to wed to save her own life, and the rumblings of a rebellion that traces back to the prior ruling family. Tropes include marriage of convenience, court intrigue, betrayal, hidden identities and banter. This is a bit spicier than book one so it is for the adult crowd only.

The Lovely: By the stars, I got so immersed in this book, as I did book one. I love how the plot, the world and the characters magically weave together through the twists and turns. Of the two biggest twists, I partially guessed one and totally guessed the other. But wow did the author have me panicking for a bit. I fell more in love with the characters in this book, especially the Riis brothers.

Rating: 5/5 Stars 3/5 Flames

Recommendation: Thank you to the author for providing this book for review consideration. think ACOTAR meets Game of Thrones set solely in the North / Winter Court. This series has been richly put together such that it feels real and like you’re in the world and story. Boom 3 is due to release in Spring 2025 and while some questions have been answered, many still remain to be explored.

[Katie Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and the series so far. It’s fast paced, entertaining, and had me laughing out loud several times. I liked the pace of the book and the character development, love the story line and the way the author builds the world. It didn’t feel like an information dump, it felt reasonable and was easy to comprehend. Having read this immediately after crescent city 3, I far far prefer Ashley’s world building to SJM’s on that particular series. As I approached the end of the book I was worried it would end off on a cliffhanger, but there’s a decent resolution that made me crave book 3 but not be so disappointed I was left on a cliff.

The only thing I disliked was a moment where you wonder if main characters are related. It gave me a bit of the ick but the answers came quickly enough it didn’t turn me off.

*I received this book as part of the ARC reader team in exchange for an honest review. However please know I paid for this book as well with preorder, very happy to support this author 🙌🏻

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story picks up immediately following where A Kingdom of Frost and Malice left off. I would recommend reading the short story told from Vale's perspective, A Warrior Prince, prior to reading book 2. I couldn't put this book down. I love the world that continues to build in this second book. There is definite character development and twists and turns that kept me enthralled. There are so many loveable side characters who become found family. The story ends with a to be continued, which left me wanting to read the next book in the series without that cliffhanger drop.

I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book starts off where the 1st one ends. She does an excellent job with her recap of the 1st one. This helped me a ton because it had been a little bit since I had read the 1st book.

I enjoyed getting to know more about the characters & courts! It is a long book, but I read it quickly!

Dual POV
Spice
Magic
Vampires
Unknown identity
Trauma
Humans
Battles
SLOW burn
Etc!

There is one thing (Fated Mates? 👀) I really wish would of happened but I'm sure it is coming! I CAN'T WAIT! I need it! 😅

I'm extremely excited for the next one! My review is voluntary! Thank you, Ashley, for such an amazing read! 🖤

[Ashly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going to give this one a solid 3.5 so it doesn’t deserve a 3. The spice was amped up in this one (as it IS an adult romantasy) but still at about a 2.5 in spice. The story moved a little slower than I expected. Maybe I was spoiled in the first book with all the mystery and fear of being found out but this one just moved a little slower for me. Still very good! A lot of focus on true identity for multiple characters. Unveiling of abilities. Would have loved to see more involving Roar’s demise. Overall I loved it and will continue the series!

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Neve has finally escaped the vampires. To do so she had to kill a vampire prince. Now the vampires are looking for her. Prince Vale has promised to marry Neve to protect her against the vampires. Their marriage is only one of convenience.

Neve is a little nervous about meeting the King. She is not sure how he will handle her marrying his son. He is surely not going to be happy when he finds out she killed a vampire prince. She had to kill the vampire prince so she could escape. Neve had been a blood slave for the vampires. Will he help protect her from the vampires?

A Lord of Snow and Greed kept me on the edge of my seat as I waited to see how it all was going to turn out. I liked getting the story from both Neve and Vale. I liked seeing the story from two sides or points.

A Lord of Snow and Greed is the second book in The Winter Court Series. It was just as great if not better than the first book A Kingdom of Frost and Malice. A Lord of Snow and Greed is told from both Neve and Prince Vale’s points of view. I enjoyed reading and learning more about the fae and the vampires. I also enjoyed the battles that took place.

I can’t wait to read the third book A Hallow of Storm and Ruin in The Winter Court Series. I have to wait a while for it as it is not due to be published until March 3, 2025.

I highly recommend A Lord of Snow and Greed to anyone who enjoys reading about the fae and vampires. Grab a copy of A Lord of Snow and Greed today!

[Ashley (andtheniwasbookish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What an AMAZING read. I felt like I was holding my breath the entire time waiting to see what would happen next.

A Lord of Snow and Greed was really, really well done. There were plot holes from the first book that were filled in, teasers in the beginning of the book that came full circle towards the end. So much character growth and development, and of course a blooming relationship with Neve and Vale

Speaking of....they're adorable and I want more of them immediately. I loved both of their POVs equally. They both just want to do the right thing, and their actions show it. Both are honorable and strong and it's so nice to see that in two main characters.

This was one of those books that I did not want to end, but man that ending was intense and set up the third installment so well.

I really thought the first book, A Court of Frost and Malice was good, but A Lord of Snow and Greed was GREAT.

What you can expect:
• dual POV
• Touch her and...well don't touch her 😉
• self-discovery and unknown identities
• secret passages with secrets 🤫
• found family

Overall: highly recommend!

[Marie Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me over a week to read because it's huge and I didn't want it to end. I'd somehow convinced myself this was going to be a duology and was originally disappointed that it wouldn't be done. But so much great stuff comes to light in this one that I am 100% not upset and am now eagerly waiting for book 3, however many pages McLeo decides it needs to be.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just what I needed

I am in such a book hangover now.
Can't wait for the next!!!!!
I cant wait to read more on the story of Neve and Vale.
This series has everything you need:
Fake engagement
Marriage of convenience
Courting festivals
Vampires
Fae
Disdain to lovers
THE LIST GOES ON

[Bridgett Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.6 stars. I really liked the story development but wished for a little more action and more answers to so many questions I have. I am sad to see that book 3 will be the last in the series. I like series at least 5 books long !!! I had really hoped to find out if a certain someone would have bared the mark of being mated !!!

[Cara Harp · Rating 5 out of 5]

My New Roman Empire! I will be thinking about this until the release or the next installment!! Spoiler free- this picks up right where Frost and Malice left off. There’s no dragging it out; it’s action packed. From the kingdom’s reaction, vampires seeking justice, Saga “seeing” what’s to come and wondering where it will lead (and where the heck Roar went!?), discovering the truth of Neve’s past and other important character truths- I DID NOT expect what was coming!! I honestly want to go back and restart Kingdom of Frost and Malice with highlighters and post-its and all the things to put together all the pieces of what I now know and try to catch any glimpse of what’s to come! What an amazing world Ashley’s created. Love love!

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! The Riis family "drama" NEVER saw it coming but it made TOTAL sense and tied a few things together! Confirming suspicious about Neve was really great! The way Roar came to his end was NOT what I was expecting! I am sooo glad that Neve got somewhat of a closure from him even though it might NOT have been what she was wanting to hear. I am glad that she is helping the humans that are now stuck in her world. I hope that between her and Vale they can fix winter and over throw the king. I am SUPER excited to read what comes next for Neve and Vale and the whole Winter Court. Outstanding job Ashley! I am soo glad that I got accepted as an ARC reader, and hope to in the future your stories are great and keeps you on the edge of your seat from one chapter to the next! Even though it only took me 5 days to read the book I never wanted to put the book down, I was eager to read the next chapter and find out what happened next. This and the first book are defiantly soooo worth the read!

[Tia's BookTok Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ashley McCleo's "A Lord of Snow and Greed" is a spellbinding addition to The Winter Court Series, delivering a dual POV fae fantasy romance that will leave readers utterly enchanted. Filled with court intrigue, secrets, steamy romance, and heart-pounding adventure, this novel is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy sagas.

Set in a world where the line between ally and enemy is blurred, "A Lord of Snow and Greed" immerses readers in a realm of political machinations and treacherous alliances. McCleo masterfully weaves a tapestry of court drama reminiscent of "Game of Thrones," keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each twist and turn.

The dual POV adds depth and complexity to the narrative, allowing readers to see the story unfold from multiple perspectives. The chemistry between the protagonists crackles with intensity, their romance simmering with passion against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of war.

What truly sets "A Lord of Snow and Greed" apart is its richly imagined world of the Winter Court. McCleo's intricate world-building brings the fae realm to life, from its shimmering palaces to its shadowy alleys. The vivid descriptions transport readers to a world of magic and intrigue, where nothing is as it seems and danger lurks around every corner.

But it's not just the world-building that shines in this novel; it's also the characters. Each one is expertly crafted, with their own motivations and secrets driving the plot forward. From the enigmatic Lord of Snow to the fierce heroine determined to uncover the truth, every character leaps off the page with vibrancy and depth.

And let's not forget the steamy romance that burns at the heart of the story. McCleo doesn't shy away from passion, delivering scenes that are as sizzling as they are heartfelt. The romance adds an extra layer of excitement to the story, keeping readers eagerly turning the pages to see how it will unfold.

In conclusion, "A Lord of Snow and Greed" is a tour de force of fae fantasy romance that will leave readers clamoring for more. With its intricate plot, engaging characters, and steamy romance, it's a must-read for fans of epic fantasy sagas. So, if you're ready for a journey into a world of magic, intrigue, and forbidden love, dive into The Winter Court Series today—you won't be disappointed.

[Jaicey Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this one a lot. Excited for the 3rd. The adventure is just as good as the relationship. But honestly, did we care that they were cousins? I thought royals were just related to begin with? Like cool that they’re not, but I didn’t think it would matter for the characters lmao.

[Dru · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honestly a good story, but the relationship feels more wholesome for my toxic self.

DNF @ 64%

[Delta Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book more than the first one and am excited to read the third one. Ashley McLeo has done a great job writing this entire story and creating a solid plot.

[debturk1970_bookvibes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wonderfully Dark Tale of Fear, Lust, Greed, and Jealousy!🙏🏼❄️😍
A 4.25 Star Read. ⭐️
A Lord of Snow and Greed: The Winter Court Series, Book 2

Be prepared to be swept up in lots of court intrigue, fear, and jealousy whilst also watching two fae fall in love while trying hard not to.🥰

I adored Prince Vale in book one, and this book cemented my adoration and admiration.♥️ Neve became stronger of both mind and body in this book. I enjoyed her growth so much. I do so wish that their relationship had been consummated in this book, though. I was REALLY disappointed it wasn't!💔😢

Saga and her friends, as well as the cabal, Lord Riis, and Neve's friends, are all absolute joys! I do fear how Saga will react and feel when she learns some secrets that have come to light, but I 'think' she's noble enough to do the right thing!🤞

Roar, after his escape from the capital city and the Kings wrath, has much to answer for. Neve will get some of her answers but may be left with many more!😳😱

I hope book 3 is already in the works, and we don't have long to wait for it. I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it, and it's connected series'.👏⭐️

Debbie, 1970, UK

[jleighcaptures · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive this free copy of A Lord of Snow and Greed by Ashley McLeo in exchange for my honest review.

Ashley has outdone herself yet again. Book #2 in The Winter Court: Crowns of Magic series fully delivered, plus some! I was thrilled to find out what choice Neve would make and where her journey would lead next and it was better than I could have expected.

Neve is probably, to date, my favorite female main character. Most books have the lead as a helpless, teenage girl. Not Neve; she's a woman in her twenties with life experiences. She is such a great character with proper emotions and reactions to her situations.

One of my favorite parts about book #1 was how fast paced it was, and A Lord of Snow and Greed was just the same. Be prepared to be unable to put the book down!
The world building is truly fantastic, and the description of characters is spot on.
While a couple of my earlier predictions were true, I truly never expected the ending. I was holding my breath those last couple of chapters!

If on the fence about giving this series a go, don't be - pick it up now. You won't be disappointed.
I'm already looking forward to the next part of Neve and Vale's journey!

🌶️ 2.5/5
World building and intrigue: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[SoulsHaven · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of ARC reading this and here’s my honest take on it…..

A Lord of Snow and Greed picked up immediately where A Kingdom and Frost and Malice left off. You will need to have read the first book to completely understand and appreciate what is going on. With that said Snow and Greed is fast paced and keeps you turning the pages to see where exactly it’s going to lead. And in my opinion much easier to get lost in.

There are a few instances where I think it becomes wordy and redundant but over all it doesn’t distract from the story. The character development is done well and even though some things are obviously coming the characters handle things in appropriate ways.

I’m hoping that some over arching questions I have will be answered in book three. And that mating marks will show up. Hopefully we don’t have to wait too long before the next one is here. Over all it’s a good easy read.

[Mrs F K · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was glad to step back Into the winter kingdom and Vale continues to be chivalrous, honourable and a general gorgeous character. This was and enjoyable book and I do like the FMC and she is certainly coming into her own in this book. All the tropes are there, found family, fake marriage, enemies to lovers so nothing new and ground breaking but there are some really good scenes (the theatre had me speed reading to know what happened next) and the character development points. Bit more spice in this one so definitely new adult and not YA. Worth a read and I can't wait for the third book.

[booksandcats · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get to read this as an ARC reader, so below is my ARC review.

Words can hardly describe the hold this book has on me. I flew through this book in 2 days, and it was so hard to put it down. Here I was thinking the first book held my attention? Oh my goodness that was all thrown out the window because this had my attention EVEN MORE. So many questions were answered, more came up, and I need more ASAP. I absolutely LOVED watching the relationship between Neve and Vale develop. The witty banter between characters was hilarious and had me laughing so much. Multiple plot twists throughout, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
This book honestly got me out of such a reading slump where I couldn’t bring myself to read new books (was stuck on a reread binge).
100% recommend!

[Shawna Z · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoying the story more with book 2, though it’s still trying too hard and forcing the storyline. Just like GOT you are going to get characters and storylines that peter out without any seeming importance. We are giving a reason why Vale and Neve shouldn’t be together- a serious one- but rather than drag it out the author does drop another bomb that changes things all over again before the first bomb has stopped ringing in our ears.

Neve is just all over the place where first she’s almost helpless and then feisty and fierce- but then there is a lot for her to deal with here.

Vale’s brother still needs someone to pour cement shoes and drop him out to sea. King Marcus as well. In fact I’m surprised the nobles haven’t risen up against his cruelty yet.

I don’t mind the queen and Saga is adorable. The cabal I want to hug because the guys are fun.

I love the hidden spaces. So much.

That prisoner of decades… what’s up with him still alive?

And Roar… I don’t have curse words harsh enough for that jerk. I mean he was obviously the biggest red flag but what the ??? Did he ever take responsibility for his own failings because he’s got playing the poor victim down who is blameless routine down. What an ass.

Still, the reveals have pretty much all been no surprise at all as the author’s character manipulations are obvious. And for Neve and Vale being married and have gotten hands on and oral they still haven’t had actual sex because (I’ve been calling this since book 1) it’s going to be revealed they are soulmates, but the mark doesn’t show until after consummation takes place now that they’ve wed.

Maybe that will finally hit in book 3? Not that I’m waiting on it- I just want the darn mark to show up so they can thumb their noses at anyone who still insists they shouldn’t have gotten married.

So yes, book 4 doesn’t come out until December but I figure I’ll go ahead and move to book 3. 4 is where the war officially starts, so I have no idea how many more books there will be. I may or may not finish as this story is just bulking up with way too much unnecessary padding when book 1 could save set it up, book 2 reaches the war and 3 bringing it home. There’s no reason I can see this far to have stretched this out.

Guess I’ll give a final opinion with my next review.