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Weather Court Gem #1
Of Snow and Sapphire
The power of the Snow Court hangs in the balance; will love or duty prevail in the Undertaking?
Ludelle, the newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court, is preparing for her first Undertaking—a yearly test from the Weather Gods. If she fails, her court’s magic will not replenish and their frigid world will melt into a flood zone of starvation and death.
Zimyn, Ludelle’s Captain of the Guard, lives with the knowledge Ludelle needs to place her people and her Court first. Though now he wonders if his presence is hurting or helping his Queen.
So while Ludelle’s Undertaking looms, and her royal advisor pressures her to pick a husband of noble status, Zimyn considers resigning his lifelong post at his Queen’s side in an effort to make the decision easier on them both. And with the entire Snow Court at stake, Ludelle struggles to decide between her responsibility to her people and a promise kept within her heart.
Of Snow and Sapphire is the first novella in the Weather Court Gem series. Each follows a different couple in their respective court (Snow, Thunder, Lightning, Rain, & Sun), each faced with the challenge of following their heart as the fate of their court's power rests in their hands.
Ludelle, the newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court, is preparing for her first Undertaking—a yearly test from the Weather Gods. If she fails, her court’s magic will not replenish and their frigid world will melt into a flood zone of starvation and death.
Zimyn, Ludelle’s Captain of the Guard, lives with the knowledge Ludelle needs to place her people and her Court first. Though now he wonders if his presence is hurting or helping his Queen.
So while Ludelle’s Undertaking looms, and her royal advisor pressures her to pick a husband of noble status, Zimyn considers resigning his lifelong post at his Queen’s side in an effort to make the decision easier on them both. And with the entire Snow Court at stake, Ludelle struggles to decide between her responsibility to her people and a promise kept within her heart.
Of Snow and Sapphire is the first novella in the Weather Court Gem series. Each follows a different couple in their respective court (Snow, Thunder, Lightning, Rain, & Sun), each faced with the challenge of following their heart as the fate of their court's power rests in their hands.
161 pages, Paperback
Published May 23, 2024
14 people are currently reading
2983 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Silver
4 books26 followersKC Silver is a born and raised Chicagoan, spending her days exploring the city, one train stop at a time. She currently works as a media planner at a large media agency where she daydreams of the day when a Slack notification no longer makes her heart jump in fear.
KC enjoys character driven stories where the main character is on a journey of discovering themselves and learning to let go of the expectations weighing on them, while falling in love.
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KC enjoys character driven stories where the main character is on a journey of discovering themselves and learning to let go of the expectations weighing on them, while falling in love.
Follow KC on all socials:
TikTok
Newsletter
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
May 21, 2024
Thank you to the author and truly yours pr for the arc . This was the perfect novella arc . Even though it’s 130 page story it was the perfect short fantasy read . It delivered everything the characters and there development the plot and the fantasy aspects . This would be a perfect quick fantasy read or a good read out of a slump . I do wish the undertaken was a tad bit longer but other than that I loved this novella and will definitely be reading the rest of them in the series . Each novella will follow a different kingdom and romance in this world !
May 19, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a fun novella! The Queen and Captain of the guard are in love and fighting between duty and love. It was a quick, easy read, and I finished it in one setting. It definitely made me want more!!!!
This is a fun novella! The Queen and Captain of the guard are in love and fighting between duty and love. It was a quick, easy read, and I finished it in one setting. It definitely made me want more!!!!
May 26, 2024
This read was certainly more of a 3.5 star rating for me personally!
I was so excited and lucky to have gotten this book as an ARC and I very much enjoyed this read!! With this novella only going slightly over 150 pages it was a nice and easy read. I adored the fantasy to this book—especially intrigued by the weather gods and courts! ⚡️ I loved the romance between the Queen and her Captain of the Guard and their stolen sexy moments! However, I do wish they had a little bit more spicy scenes between them throughout the novella.
Honestly, I don’t have many complaints especially since it can be hard to find an “easier” fantasy read but this novella really does it well!! My only complaint would be that—I just wished there was more! 🥹 The ending came up a little quick for me but all is still resolved and I just wish I could’ve gone on to read so much more about Ludelle and Zimyn’s love story but WHO KNOWS maybe that will be explored in future books in this series!
Favorite Quotes
- “I would wait centuries to have you, even if our time together is only seconds. I would find you in another life, just to have you again.”
- “She was his to protect, and no marriage, no distance between them, would ever change that.”
I was so excited and lucky to have gotten this book as an ARC and I very much enjoyed this read!! With this novella only going slightly over 150 pages it was a nice and easy read. I adored the fantasy to this book—especially intrigued by the weather gods and courts! ⚡️ I loved the romance between the Queen and her Captain of the Guard and their stolen sexy moments! However, I do wish they had a little bit more spicy scenes between them throughout the novella.
Honestly, I don’t have many complaints especially since it can be hard to find an “easier” fantasy read but this novella really does it well!! My only complaint would be that—I just wished there was more! 🥹 The ending came up a little quick for me but all is still resolved and I just wish I could’ve gone on to read so much more about Ludelle and Zimyn’s love story but WHO KNOWS maybe that will be explored in future books in this series!
Favorite Quotes
- “I would wait centuries to have you, even if our time together is only seconds. I would find you in another life, just to have you again.”
- “She was his to protect, and no marriage, no distance between them, would ever change that.”
May 17, 2024
ARC REVIEW ❄️
Blurb: The power of the Snow Court hangs in the balance; will love or duty prevail in theUndertaking?
Ludelle, the newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court, is preparing for her first Undertaking—a yearly test from the Weather Gods. If she fails, her court’s magic will not replenish and their frigid world will melt into a flood zone of starvation and death.
I’m not usually one for friends to lovers, but this author did it so tastefully.
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Ice Powers
Royal Romance
Impossible love
This author did the impossible friends to lovers trope is such a tasteful way where it did not feel one sided. Queen Ludelle has to pick between following her heart or picking her court and people instead. It was a quick fun read getting to explore the Snow Court! Other courts are getting their own stories and I definitely will be reading them all!
Blurb: The power of the Snow Court hangs in the balance; will love or duty prevail in theUndertaking?
Ludelle, the newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court, is preparing for her first Undertaking—a yearly test from the Weather Gods. If she fails, her court’s magic will not replenish and their frigid world will melt into a flood zone of starvation and death.
I’m not usually one for friends to lovers, but this author did it so tastefully.
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Ice Powers
Royal Romance
Impossible love
This author did the impossible friends to lovers trope is such a tasteful way where it did not feel one sided. Queen Ludelle has to pick between following her heart or picking her court and people instead. It was a quick fun read getting to explore the Snow Court! Other courts are getting their own stories and I definitely will be reading them all!
May 29, 2024
of snow and sapphire ~ arc review ❄️
3⭐️
I think I was a little too out of my comfort zone with this one and that's totally on me. I couldn't get into it, but that ending left me a little shocked. thank you to truly yours pr for the arc.
3⭐️
I think I was a little too out of my comfort zone with this one and that's totally on me. I couldn't get into it, but that ending left me a little shocked. thank you to truly yours pr for the arc.
July 20, 2024
It was a cute quick read. I wish she had shown us more magic and also explained more about why they have to do the trials every year for the Gods.
April 30, 2025
The cover is cute.
May 16, 2024
❄️Childhood Friends to Lovers
❄️Queen x Captain of the Guard
❄️Court intrigue
❄️Snow & Ice powers
❄️Impossible Romance
❄️Mutual pining
❄️Angst
❄️🌶🌶🌶
Of Snow and Sapphire is a delightful short Novella. It is fast paced and full of angst and pining as the love between the Queen of the Snow Court, Ludelle, and her Captain of the Guard, Zimyn, cannot be realized. Her duty as the queen to take a noble as her consort stands in their way.
I felt for Ludelle as she experiences such conflict over her fate. She wrestles with the pain she feels knowing she cannot choose her one true love in light of her role as the Queen. She is in a constant push and pull with Zymin trying to assuage her grief. My heart hurt for Zimyn as he attempts to be self-sacrificing, torn between what he desires but believing Ludelle must choose what is best for their kingdom, even when that means not being with him.
The pining and angst between the two of them leaps off the pages and grips your heart in a vice. Forbidden love is like that. The potential consorts add a fun layer of characters you love to hate, and Ludelle’s closest ladies in waiting serve to be a helping sounding board. A few knowledge drops along the way added to the depth of the story.
Being a swift moving novella, things unpack quickly but still manage to have a plot that doesn’t break down. I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone looking for a quick romantasy.
Thank you to Truly Yours for the eARC
❄️Queen x Captain of the Guard
❄️Court intrigue
❄️Snow & Ice powers
❄️Impossible Romance
❄️Mutual pining
❄️Angst
❄️🌶🌶🌶
Of Snow and Sapphire is a delightful short Novella. It is fast paced and full of angst and pining as the love between the Queen of the Snow Court, Ludelle, and her Captain of the Guard, Zimyn, cannot be realized. Her duty as the queen to take a noble as her consort stands in their way.
I felt for Ludelle as she experiences such conflict over her fate. She wrestles with the pain she feels knowing she cannot choose her one true love in light of her role as the Queen. She is in a constant push and pull with Zymin trying to assuage her grief. My heart hurt for Zimyn as he attempts to be self-sacrificing, torn between what he desires but believing Ludelle must choose what is best for their kingdom, even when that means not being with him.
The pining and angst between the two of them leaps off the pages and grips your heart in a vice. Forbidden love is like that. The potential consorts add a fun layer of characters you love to hate, and Ludelle’s closest ladies in waiting serve to be a helping sounding board. A few knowledge drops along the way added to the depth of the story.
Being a swift moving novella, things unpack quickly but still manage to have a plot that doesn’t break down. I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone looking for a quick romantasy.
Thank you to Truly Yours for the eARC
May 24, 2024
The power of the Snow Court hangs in the balance; will love or duty prevail in the Undertaking?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Of Snow and Sapphire is a romantasy novella (sub 150 pages) that follows newly crowned queen, Ludelle, and the captain of her royal guard, Zimyn. Ludelle is preparing for her first Undertaking as queen while also being pressured to marry a noble from her court. The problem is that her heart lies with Zimyn and she finds herself being forced to choose between her heart and loyalty to her court.
I have been in an ARC rut lately and this one has single-handedly restored my faith in the process! I loved returning to my romantasy roots for a little bit and diving into the Winter Court envisioned by KC Silver. I enjoyed the characters, especially Ludelle’s unapologetic demeanor as Queen. So often we see our FMCs have such an internal struggle surrounding their self-worth, and I loved that the opposite was embodied in Ludelle. Zimyn was equally as strong and self-assured and I just loved him. 🫶🏼 The romance was lovely but didn’t derail the plot at all. The storyline was consistently strong and there was a plot twist towards the end that was wonderfully executed. I can’t wait to see what else is coming in this series!
Tropes:
❄️Childhood Friends to Lovers
❄️Queen x Captain of the Guard
❄️Court intrigue
❄️Snow & Ice powers
❄️Impossible Romance
❄️Mutual pining
❄️Spice
❄️Angst
Available now on KindleUnlimited!
May 18, 2024
4 ⭐️’s
I really enjoyed this novella and am excited for the rest! I do feel it took me time to understand the background since their relationship had been built prior to the novella (i think a prequel would be adorable!). I also enjoyed the plot twist at the end a lot!
I do feel the Undertaking could’ve been dragged out a little longer. While aware it is a novella I feel that the Undertaking would’ve been better if it had taken up the second half of the novella with the first being their relationship (or possibly making the page count longer to add to the suspense of the Undertaking).
I do plan on continuing this series and am excited for the future stories!!!
I really enjoyed this novella and am excited for the rest! I do feel it took me time to understand the background since their relationship had been built prior to the novella (i think a prequel would be adorable!). I also enjoyed the plot twist at the end a lot!
I do feel the Undertaking could’ve been dragged out a little longer. While aware it is a novella I feel that the Undertaking would’ve been better if it had taken up the second half of the novella with the first being their relationship (or possibly making the page count longer to add to the suspense of the Undertaking).
I do plan on continuing this series and am excited for the future stories!!!
May 27, 2024
This was a quick little fantasy read for me. I read it in like a day. Basically, she queen of her kingdom and has to go through the Undertaking to keep her kingdom’s power. She’s also needs to marry but she is in love with the captain of her guard. It just really slow for me and I found myself getting bored. She was very strong female lead and liked that they looked different like light eyes and blue hair it was different. I’m glad they got a happy ending and she chose him. I give it 3.75 rounding up to a 4 on here ❤️
Thank you Truly Yours Pr and the author for the sending me this ARC and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
Thank you Truly Yours Pr and the author for the sending me this ARC and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
May 25, 2024
4.5 / 5 ⭐️
I loved this short & sweet novella! There was so much that was great about this book. It’s set in the winter court, and all I could picture was ice castle and pines trees and snow (which I love lol). Having weather courts is such a cool idea, and the queen having ice powers was even more interesting. She is a strong, compassionate character right out of the gate.
I enjoyed the banter between Ludelle and Zimyn, it was funny and at times so so sweet. They begin as childhood friends, a queen and the captain of her guard. I love a forbidden love trope, and the mutual pining, mutual longing, and internal conflict made it so good. Both characters had depth, especially for how short the book was. There was twists I didn’t see coming, and the trial at the end Ludelle had to endure to make sure her court still had magic in it made everything just come together. I have so many questions about what’s next, wtf is up with the weather gods, and can’t wait to see more of the other courts.
Thank you to @trulyyours.pr for the arc, I loved this book. AND THE COVER?? One of the most beautiful cover arts. ❄️
I loved this short & sweet novella! There was so much that was great about this book. It’s set in the winter court, and all I could picture was ice castle and pines trees and snow (which I love lol). Having weather courts is such a cool idea, and the queen having ice powers was even more interesting. She is a strong, compassionate character right out of the gate.
I enjoyed the banter between Ludelle and Zimyn, it was funny and at times so so sweet. They begin as childhood friends, a queen and the captain of her guard. I love a forbidden love trope, and the mutual pining, mutual longing, and internal conflict made it so good. Both characters had depth, especially for how short the book was. There was twists I didn’t see coming, and the trial at the end Ludelle had to endure to make sure her court still had magic in it made everything just come together. I have so many questions about what’s next, wtf is up with the weather gods, and can’t wait to see more of the other courts.
Thank you to @trulyyours.pr for the arc, I loved this book. AND THE COVER?? One of the most beautiful cover arts. ❄️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2024
ARC Review ✨️
♡Ludelle and Zimyn♡
This novella was truly something special and unique! Don't let the number of pages fool you, though! For the story being so short, it was action-packed, filled with fantasy, and had incredible world building. The plot was very interesting, and I love how the author opened the door for us to learn about the other realms! Both of our main characters are very genuine, kind-hearted souls, and some parts of this story most definitely got emotional. I can't wait for the rest of the series😍🖤
♡Ludelle and Zimyn♡
This novella was truly something special and unique! Don't let the number of pages fool you, though! For the story being so short, it was action-packed, filled with fantasy, and had incredible world building. The plot was very interesting, and I love how the author opened the door for us to learn about the other realms! Both of our main characters are very genuine, kind-hearted souls, and some parts of this story most definitely got emotional. I can't wait for the rest of the series😍🖤
June 5, 2024
Thank you to Truly Yours PR for the opportunity to read this ARC! I’m not typically a big fan of the friends to lovers trope, but I enjoyed the dynamic between Ludelle and Zimyn. Instead of one pining for the other, they both try to fight against their feelings for the sake of the kingdom. The concept of the Weather Gods and the Undertaking was interesting, and I liked the twist at the end. This was a great length novella for a fantasy! Anything shorter would have felt rushed. I’m looking forward to reading the other novellas about different kingdoms in this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2024
I don’t wanna say I got emotional from this, but who am I kidding. Of course I did. I cry so easily when reading books and the characters “can’t be together”. It just makes me so sad.
I really enjoyed this story though. And I’m very grateful to K.C. Silver and Truly Yours Pr for the opportunity to read this story and provide my honest review.
I really enjoyed this story though. And I’m very grateful to K.C. Silver and Truly Yours Pr for the opportunity to read this story and provide my honest review.
May 21, 2024
Of Snow and Sapphire is the perfect blend of fantasy and romance! The magic system is easy to understand and Ludelle’s Undertaking had me on the edge of my seat. But the romance was truly swoon/worthy, loaded with so much mutual pining that had me rooting for Ludelle and Zimyn (what a man!) from page one.
May 27, 2024
3.5//thank you to yours truly pr and the author for an arc of this book.
I really enjoyed this fantasy story. It was a short easy to read novella that was mostly quick paced. I do wish I had more of the undertaking instead of waiting for it to happen. I was hooked by one of the main events that take place and couldn’t put it down towards the end.
The only thing I wish is that I could’ve connected more with our main character. She was super cold - literally since she’s a snow queen - but I also found her hard to relate to. I did root for the love interest because he seemed to soften her and empower her.
Overall, a good light fantasy read!
I really enjoyed this fantasy story. It was a short easy to read novella that was mostly quick paced. I do wish I had more of the undertaking instead of waiting for it to happen. I was hooked by one of the main events that take place and couldn’t put it down towards the end.
The only thing I wish is that I could’ve connected more with our main character. She was super cold - literally since she’s a snow queen - but I also found her hard to relate to. I did root for the love interest because he seemed to soften her and empower her.
Overall, a good light fantasy read!
June 1, 2024
Of Snow and Sapphire is a refreshing, fast-paced romantasy novella that grabs your attention from the beginning. Typically with shorter books, I feel like they’re under-developed, but Silver did an amazing job of creating a short but detailed and engaging read with the perfect friends to lovers romance. The backstory was weaved in seamlessly with the action and development of the story, which made it really easy to follow. I also LOVED the friends-to-lovers romance. It was different than I’m used to, and I loved the premise behind why they hadn’t gotten together sooner.
December 22, 2024
really short read but it took a while to finish because at parts this story was a little boring. overall enjoyed it though and the end made me a little sad and intrigued to continue the storyline but i won’t
June 18, 2024
*I received an e-arc from the author and truly yours pr. Thank you for the opportunity! All thoughts are my own*
Of Snow and Sapphire is a quick and easy fantasy novella that packed a lot of punch! This story definitely hooked me with its memorable characters, world building, and royal intrigue. I love the friends to lover’s trope, so this was perfect for me as well!
Ludelle and Zimyn are so cute! Ludelle as the newly crowned Queen is torn between her responsibilities to her people and her love. Zimyn is protective of Ludelle, but he respects her and lets her make her own decisions. With the fate of the Snow Court in her hands, Ludelle has some hard choices to make. I wish we had a little more time with the characters, that’s my only complaint. Hopefully we see them again in the next novella.
I am so grateful I got to read this, and I am excited to read about the other courts in this series! I recommend!
Of Snow and Sapphire is a quick and easy fantasy novella that packed a lot of punch! This story definitely hooked me with its memorable characters, world building, and royal intrigue. I love the friends to lover’s trope, so this was perfect for me as well!
Ludelle and Zimyn are so cute! Ludelle as the newly crowned Queen is torn between her responsibilities to her people and her love. Zimyn is protective of Ludelle, but he respects her and lets her make her own decisions. With the fate of the Snow Court in her hands, Ludelle has some hard choices to make. I wish we had a little more time with the characters, that’s my only complaint. Hopefully we see them again in the next novella.
I am so grateful I got to read this, and I am excited to read about the other courts in this series! I recommend!
July 2, 2024
ARC REVIEW
This book is a short story, a novella, has 20 chapters and is a quick read. I read it in 2 days. I don't usually read novellas, but this was very interesting. It's a friends-to-lovers story, so if you like this trope, check this book out.
I loved Ludelle's determination. To make sure her people will be safe, she is willing to marry a Lord she doesn't love. Zimyn is so strong. He loves her so much that he is willing to go away and let her fulfill her duty. I loved their chemistry.
I was unprepared for the decision she had to make in the maze. Also the way she used the Heart shocked me a bit.
Like I said, it's a quick read, so if you want to read something but don't have enough time, read this. The chapters aren't long, so you'll read it in no time. Trust me and give it a shot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is a short story, a novella, has 20 chapters and is a quick read. I read it in 2 days. I don't usually read novellas, but this was very interesting. It's a friends-to-lovers story, so if you like this trope, check this book out.
I loved Ludelle's determination. To make sure her people will be safe, she is willing to marry a Lord she doesn't love. Zimyn is so strong. He loves her so much that he is willing to go away and let her fulfill her duty. I loved their chemistry.
I was unprepared for the decision she had to make in the maze. Also the way she used the Heart shocked me a bit.
Like I said, it's a quick read, so if you want to read something but don't have enough time, read this. The chapters aren't long, so you'll read it in no time. Trust me and give it a shot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 23, 2024
4⭐️s
1.5 🌶️
Tropes:
❄️Bodyguard
❄️Childhood friends to lovers
❄️Slow burn
❄️Mutual angst
❄️Impossible romance
Summary:
Queen Ludelle has just assumed the throne 7 months ago after the tragic passing of both her parents. She is now required to participate in the great tradition of the Undertaking trial, which will supply her kingdom with an entire year’s worth of magic to sustain their way of living (aka not let the ice and snow melt). A major part of the monarch’s first Undertaking is to also choose a husband. The only problem is, Ludelle is in love with her childhood best friend, who happens to be her bodyguard, Zimyn. Luckily, Zimyn is also very much in love with Ludelle. Unluckily, Zimyn is not from a noble family, and is therefore deemed unworthy by the rest of the court.
Ludelle and Zimyn try to come to terms with their presented reality of a future without each other. Zimyn makes plans to pass on his guardianship of his Queen to another guard to see the rest of kingdom. Ludelle finds out Zimyn’s plans and (reluctantly) accepts that her childhood best friend should get his wish to travel and to be happy. All of this is happening while Ludelle is still figuring out how to even be Queen and the royal advisor, Balvan, attempts to steer her in the more suitable suitors’ direction.
But Ludelle and Zimyn learn that their love cannot be easily ignored or denied and that some traditions were made to be broken.
Critiques:
I wish we had just a little more back story or explanation for certain things such as the magic system, the Undertaking, the Weather gods, and the different weather courts. I know, this is just a novella so space and time are limited, but I loved the concepts of the aforementioned elements, I just wished I knew a little bit more about them.
I thought the story could have used a touch more editing (rearranging) in the first quarter of the novella for better reader comprehension. It‘s tough to convey a brand new world in so short of a time, and especially when introducing a concept of a trial that the FMC will be participating in. There’s one flashback memory that Ludelle has when she and Zimyn were younger in Chapter 4 that gives a glimpse into their relationship as well as what the Undertaking is or at least could be used as a set up to understand a bit better when it’s introduced in the first chapter. I think it would have made sense to have that flashback as a potential Prologue to set the tone of the story.
Overall, I greatly enjoyed this story. I’m not usually one for the bodyguard trope, but this little novella definitely changed my mind about that. The angst and longing leading up to the spice was excellent. The magic system and “Undertaking” trial that came along with that was fun. The twist at the end, while some readers might find predictable (like I did), was still interesting and didn’t take away from the enjoyment. I’m really excited for the next novella in the series and to see more of this world and the magic. This is the perfect short romantasy read.
Thank you to Truly Yours PR for the Arc read.
1.5 🌶️
Tropes:
❄️Bodyguard
❄️Childhood friends to lovers
❄️Slow burn
❄️Mutual angst
❄️Impossible romance
Summary:
Queen Ludelle has just assumed the throne 7 months ago after the tragic passing of both her parents. She is now required to participate in the great tradition of the Undertaking trial, which will supply her kingdom with an entire year’s worth of magic to sustain their way of living (aka not let the ice and snow melt). A major part of the monarch’s first Undertaking is to also choose a husband. The only problem is, Ludelle is in love with her childhood best friend, who happens to be her bodyguard, Zimyn. Luckily, Zimyn is also very much in love with Ludelle. Unluckily, Zimyn is not from a noble family, and is therefore deemed unworthy by the rest of the court.
Ludelle and Zimyn try to come to terms with their presented reality of a future without each other. Zimyn makes plans to pass on his guardianship of his Queen to another guard to see the rest of kingdom. Ludelle finds out Zimyn’s plans and (reluctantly) accepts that her childhood best friend should get his wish to travel and to be happy. All of this is happening while Ludelle is still figuring out how to even be Queen and the royal advisor, Balvan, attempts to steer her in the more suitable suitors’ direction.
But Ludelle and Zimyn learn that their love cannot be easily ignored or denied and that some traditions were made to be broken.
Critiques:
I wish we had just a little more back story or explanation for certain things such as the magic system, the Undertaking, the Weather gods, and the different weather courts. I know, this is just a novella so space and time are limited, but I loved the concepts of the aforementioned elements, I just wished I knew a little bit more about them.
I thought the story could have used a touch more editing (rearranging) in the first quarter of the novella for better reader comprehension. It‘s tough to convey a brand new world in so short of a time, and especially when introducing a concept of a trial that the FMC will be participating in. There’s one flashback memory that Ludelle has when she and Zimyn were younger in Chapter 4 that gives a glimpse into their relationship as well as what the Undertaking is or at least could be used as a set up to understand a bit better when it’s introduced in the first chapter. I think it would have made sense to have that flashback as a potential Prologue to set the tone of the story.
Overall, I greatly enjoyed this story. I’m not usually one for the bodyguard trope, but this little novella definitely changed my mind about that. The angst and longing leading up to the spice was excellent. The magic system and “Undertaking” trial that came along with that was fun. The twist at the end, while some readers might find predictable (like I did), was still interesting and didn’t take away from the enjoyment. I’m really excited for the next novella in the series and to see more of this world and the magic. This is the perfect short romantasy read.
Thank you to Truly Yours PR for the Arc read.
May 24, 2024
I thought this was a really sweet story and I’m a big fan of friends to lovers. Especially if there’s a lot of emotional connection and should-we-shouldn’t-we hard decision making involved. I was hoping these two would find a way from the very first chapter!
The FMC is Ludelle, newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court. There is an Undertaking she must accomplish, a yearly trial that the Weather Gods oversee, to prove her worthiness to rule and to protect the magic in her kingdom. Immediately after, she is expected to select her consort. Her advisor is somewhat of a snake and very pushy, The captain of her guard and closest childhood friend, Zimyn, is the man she really wants by her side. Alas, he is not of noble birth, she must shove her feelings aside and meet the male nobles that her advisor has selected as suitable consorts. She is very conflicted and her mind is often elsewhere as she prepares for her Undertaking.
Zimyn is a man of duty. He is willing to sacrifice everything for Ludelle, his happiness, his love for her, even his own life. He has never acted on his attraction to Ludelle even when she has wavered and tempted him. How long can he hold out? This is his Queen. She wants him but he wants her to be found worthy by the Gods and would never want to be a reason that she lost the confidence of her people and the favor of the Gods.
The description of the Snow Court is well done and not overbearing, and the appearance of its inhabitants very memorable and unique among fantasy books I’ve read. I enjoyed the inclusion of a castle cat, and the court politics were present but not overbearing. This is a sweet novella with a nice bit of spice and tons of emotional angst. At under 200 pages, it’s an easy, sweet read that I can heartily recommend.
The FMC is Ludelle, newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court. There is an Undertaking she must accomplish, a yearly trial that the Weather Gods oversee, to prove her worthiness to rule and to protect the magic in her kingdom. Immediately after, she is expected to select her consort. Her advisor is somewhat of a snake and very pushy, The captain of her guard and closest childhood friend, Zimyn, is the man she really wants by her side. Alas, he is not of noble birth, she must shove her feelings aside and meet the male nobles that her advisor has selected as suitable consorts. She is very conflicted and her mind is often elsewhere as she prepares for her Undertaking.
Zimyn is a man of duty. He is willing to sacrifice everything for Ludelle, his happiness, his love for her, even his own life. He has never acted on his attraction to Ludelle even when she has wavered and tempted him. How long can he hold out? This is his Queen. She wants him but he wants her to be found worthy by the Gods and would never want to be a reason that she lost the confidence of her people and the favor of the Gods.
The description of the Snow Court is well done and not overbearing, and the appearance of its inhabitants very memorable and unique among fantasy books I’ve read. I enjoyed the inclusion of a castle cat, and the court politics were present but not overbearing. This is a sweet novella with a nice bit of spice and tons of emotional angst. At under 200 pages, it’s an easy, sweet read that I can heartily recommend.
May 15, 2024
“I would wait centuries to have you, even if our time together is only seconds. I would find you in another life, just to have you again.”
Of Snow and Sapphire is a novella, but despite its brevity, I found that this story about love, self-sacrifice and duty was complete and enthralling. Everything is in it : the love story, characters’ conflict, the world building, a plot for the characters. All characters (even the side ones) are well developed and have their own personality. Of course, I wish there was more world building and descriptions (of the castle and the world for example), but I guess it’s what you have to compromise with when you read a novella. It’s not that it lacked here, just that I wish I had more…
As I said, I loved the characters and the plot. I did not see some twists coming, and the pacing was really great. Ludelle is a strong female character, torn between love and responsibilities, but who wants mostly to remain faithful to who she is, and not just become her husband’s (or son’s) shadow. She has a choice to make, but she’s never whinny. I adored that. Zimyn is one of my favourite MMC in a long time. He’s strong, able, protective but always lets Ludelle be, and makes her own choices. That’s what being supportive is, IMO. (I also loved the idea of his frozen plates, both on a symbolic and aesthetic POV)
I can’t wait to read about the other courts, especially because I love the Weather Gods concept.
Thank you K.C. Silver and Truly Yours PR for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
Of Snow and Sapphire is a novella, but despite its brevity, I found that this story about love, self-sacrifice and duty was complete and enthralling. Everything is in it : the love story, characters’ conflict, the world building, a plot for the characters. All characters (even the side ones) are well developed and have their own personality. Of course, I wish there was more world building and descriptions (of the castle and the world for example), but I guess it’s what you have to compromise with when you read a novella. It’s not that it lacked here, just that I wish I had more…
As I said, I loved the characters and the plot. I did not see some twists coming, and the pacing was really great. Ludelle is a strong female character, torn between love and responsibilities, but who wants mostly to remain faithful to who she is, and not just become her husband’s (or son’s) shadow. She has a choice to make, but she’s never whinny. I adored that. Zimyn is one of my favourite MMC in a long time. He’s strong, able, protective but always lets Ludelle be, and makes her own choices. That’s what being supportive is, IMO. (I also loved the idea of his frozen plates, both on a symbolic and aesthetic POV)
I can’t wait to read about the other courts, especially because I love the Weather Gods concept.
Thank you K.C. Silver and Truly Yours PR for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
May 16, 2024
ARC review for Of Snow and Sapphire by K.C. Silver 📚🖤
Thank you KC Silver & TrulyYours PR for the ARC opportunity! 🫶🏻
✨SYNOPSIS✨
Ludelle, the newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court, is preparing for her first Undertaking—a yearly test from the Weather Gods. If she fails, her court's magic will not replenish and their frigid world will melt into a flood zone of starvation and death.
Zimyn, Ludelle's Captain of the Guard, lives with the knowledge Ludelle needs to place her people and her Court first. Though now he wonders if his presence is hurting or helping his Queen.
So while Ludelle's Undertaking looms, and her royal advisor pressures her to pick a husband of noble status, Zimyn considers resigning his lifelong post at his Queen's side in an effort to make the decision easier on them both. And with the entire Snow Court at stake, Ludelle struggles to decide between her responsibility to her people and a promise kept within her heart.
✨TROPES✨
Childhood Friends to Lovers.
Queen x Captain of the Guard.
Court intrigue.
Snow & Ice powers.
Impossible Romance.
Mutual pining.
Spice.
Angst.
••• ••• •••
3.5/5⭐️
With just over 140 pages, this was a super quick read!
"I will wait as long as it takes to finally call you mine. Any amount of time together will be enough."
"I would wait centuries to have you, even if our time together is only seconds. I would find you in another life, just to have you again."
A life long pining friendship, thrown into courtly intrigue and risks all around. The plot twist at the very end was not what I was expecting!
Thank you KC Silver & TrulyYours PR for the ARC opportunity! 🫶🏻
✨SYNOPSIS✨
Ludelle, the newly crowned Queen of the Snow Court, is preparing for her first Undertaking—a yearly test from the Weather Gods. If she fails, her court's magic will not replenish and their frigid world will melt into a flood zone of starvation and death.
Zimyn, Ludelle's Captain of the Guard, lives with the knowledge Ludelle needs to place her people and her Court first. Though now he wonders if his presence is hurting or helping his Queen.
So while Ludelle's Undertaking looms, and her royal advisor pressures her to pick a husband of noble status, Zimyn considers resigning his lifelong post at his Queen's side in an effort to make the decision easier on them both. And with the entire Snow Court at stake, Ludelle struggles to decide between her responsibility to her people and a promise kept within her heart.
✨TROPES✨
Childhood Friends to Lovers.
Queen x Captain of the Guard.
Court intrigue.
Snow & Ice powers.
Impossible Romance.
Mutual pining.
Spice.
Angst.
••• ••• •••
3.5/5⭐️
With just over 140 pages, this was a super quick read!
"I will wait as long as it takes to finally call you mine. Any amount of time together will be enough."
"I would wait centuries to have you, even if our time together is only seconds. I would find you in another life, just to have you again."
A life long pining friendship, thrown into courtly intrigue and risks all around. The plot twist at the very end was not what I was expecting!
May 18, 2024
Of Snow and Sapphire is a fast paced novella following Ludelle, Queen of the Snow Court, and Zimyn, Captain of the Guard. These childhood friends promised to grow their relationship, but realistically, Ludelle’s duty as a queen forces her to pick a more suitable husband that can help her rule her people.
Both characters are portrayed as selfless and self-sacrificing knowing that they cannot be romantically involved, and that forbidden love hurts not only them, but the reader as well. Most of us probably know what it’s like to want someone you can’t have, but imagine that making or breaking your entire future. Then add on the fact that you are destined to rule an entire region, and who you marry will impact all of those people as well. So much pressure for someone so young like Ludelle who just wants to ensure happiness for everyone despite her own wishes.
With it being a novella, the story does feel quite rushed and I wish some scenes were more in depth. So much of the novella builds up what Ludelle has to go through called the Undertaking, for it to only last a chapter or so. However, even with this novella only being about 150 pages (took me maybe 2 hours total to read?), I’m fully gripped into Ludelle and Zimyn story, and can’t wait to see where K.C. Silver takes it in the next ones!
Thank you to Truly Yours PR and K.C. Silver for this ARC in exchange for my honest review ✨
Tropes:
❄️ Childhood Sweethearts
❄️ Forbidden Romance
❄️ Queen x Captain of the Guard
❄️ Strong MFC
❄️ Court Intrigue
❄️ Ice/Snow Powers
Both characters are portrayed as selfless and self-sacrificing knowing that they cannot be romantically involved, and that forbidden love hurts not only them, but the reader as well. Most of us probably know what it’s like to want someone you can’t have, but imagine that making or breaking your entire future. Then add on the fact that you are destined to rule an entire region, and who you marry will impact all of those people as well. So much pressure for someone so young like Ludelle who just wants to ensure happiness for everyone despite her own wishes.
With it being a novella, the story does feel quite rushed and I wish some scenes were more in depth. So much of the novella builds up what Ludelle has to go through called the Undertaking, for it to only last a chapter or so. However, even with this novella only being about 150 pages (took me maybe 2 hours total to read?), I’m fully gripped into Ludelle and Zimyn story, and can’t wait to see where K.C. Silver takes it in the next ones!
Thank you to Truly Yours PR and K.C. Silver for this ARC in exchange for my honest review ✨
Tropes:
❄️ Childhood Sweethearts
❄️ Forbidden Romance
❄️ Queen x Captain of the Guard
❄️ Strong MFC
❄️ Court Intrigue
❄️ Ice/Snow Powers
May 28, 2024
Thank you to the author and Truly Yours PR for an ARC copy of this novella in exchange for an honest review.
Here’s the thing with this book: I’m actually kind of mad at it.
Why? Because the writing was good but there were some odd choices made and the pacing felt off?
The weird choices with Ludella: have white irises and silver pupils? Did she have nails or claws? Did she have normal fingers and long nails or like talons? I also just didn’t really like her? She was supposed to be tough and ready for battle but she did not have the attitude of a fighter. She felt selfish, haughty, and entitled.
Weird choices with Zimyn: I don’t get the scale armor. It was part of his skin? So he had scales or skin? No armor, just scales? I had a hard time knowing if I should root for him or now?
The Undertakjng was underwhelming. There was so much build up but then it was such a short part of the story and didn’t seem dangerous? They talked about it so much and emphasized how big of a deal it was and then it wasn’t? Because of that, even though this is a super short book, it felt like things just stretched on. Let us see how big of a deal it is instead of just saying it.
The resolution seemed odd as well. Were the Gods mad? Were they like oh you outsmarted us?? I wish the epilogue had been years and years down the road so I could get a better feeling of closure?
I feel like this has the potential to be really cool and a fresh, new idea for fantasy but I think it needed more time to cook.
Here’s the thing with this book: I’m actually kind of mad at it.
Why? Because the writing was good but there were some odd choices made and the pacing felt off?
The weird choices with Ludella: have white irises and silver pupils? Did she have nails or claws? Did she have normal fingers and long nails or like talons? I also just didn’t really like her? She was supposed to be tough and ready for battle but she did not have the attitude of a fighter. She felt selfish, haughty, and entitled.
Weird choices with Zimyn: I don’t get the scale armor. It was part of his skin? So he had scales or skin? No armor, just scales? I had a hard time knowing if I should root for him or now?
The Undertakjng was underwhelming. There was so much build up but then it was such a short part of the story and didn’t seem dangerous? They talked about it so much and emphasized how big of a deal it was and then it wasn’t? Because of that, even though this is a super short book, it felt like things just stretched on. Let us see how big of a deal it is instead of just saying it.
The resolution seemed odd as well. Were the Gods mad? Were they like oh you outsmarted us?? I wish the epilogue had been years and years down the road so I could get a better feeling of closure?
I feel like this has the potential to be really cool and a fresh, new idea for fantasy but I think it needed more time to cook.
May 20, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Queen x Captain
Forbiddenish Romance
Fight for their love
"The power was not meant for her. It was hers to give. To give to her people and her land. To give to the one she loved. It was a heart built to share."
This was such a sweet novella and not what I expected.
Ludelle suddenly finds herself Queen of the Snow Court and must go through the Undertaking which not only will determine who her consort will be, but also provide a fertile year for her people. Even though she's prepared her whole life for this, she finds herself at war with her own heart. Sge the must chose between the salvation of her kingdom or the love of her life.
Zimyn has been trained from a young age to take over the role of Captain from his father and protect the ruler of their Kingdom. He is a protectors through and through, ready to sacrifice himself and his love for Ludelle and his people.
“You and her are like looking in the mirror. Opposites of the same image. You’re dedicated. She’s strong-willed. You compliment each other beautifully. A perfect pair that would be unstoppable.”
That undertaking was stressful! But the way everything came together in the end truly made up for it! I loved the details of the meaning behind the mirrors and the sapphire. It was so heartwarming to read! I definitely recommend this!
I have to say the real MVP of this story is definitely Balvan!
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Queen x Captain
Forbiddenish Romance
Fight for their love
"The power was not meant for her. It was hers to give. To give to her people and her land. To give to the one she loved. It was a heart built to share."
This was such a sweet novella and not what I expected.
Ludelle suddenly finds herself Queen of the Snow Court and must go through the Undertaking which not only will determine who her consort will be, but also provide a fertile year for her people. Even though she's prepared her whole life for this, she finds herself at war with her own heart. Sge the must chose between the salvation of her kingdom or the love of her life.
Zimyn has been trained from a young age to take over the role of Captain from his father and protect the ruler of their Kingdom. He is a protectors through and through, ready to sacrifice himself and his love for Ludelle and his people.
“You and her are like looking in the mirror. Opposites of the same image. You’re dedicated. She’s strong-willed. You compliment each other beautifully. A perfect pair that would be unstoppable.”
That undertaking was stressful! But the way everything came together in the end truly made up for it! I loved the details of the meaning behind the mirrors and the sapphire. It was so heartwarming to read! I definitely recommend this!
I have to say the real MVP of this story is definitely Balvan!
May 31, 2024
"Of Snow and Sapphire" was the perfect fantasy novella to read in between other heftier, high fantasy series (Which I believe to be a huge feat since I don't consider many fantasy novellas to strike this balance well. Whenever I need to read in between series, I typically go for a more modern/urban read because it's hard to dive into another fantasy world). Well, not with this book! For the length of it, I really felt pleased overall with the journey I went on while reading! The backstory for Ludelle and Zimyn felt natural in it's set up and the way they interact & grow alongside one another even more so. By the end of the novella, I was tearing up and cheering them on. Like other novellas I've fallen for, I do wish it was longer but I also really respect and appreciate its length.
Just something in particular I really liked about this book was the set up for the other books in the series that are forthcoming! I'm super excited to see the other courts and get a glimpse into each of them through their novellas. Silver did a fantastic job getting me interested in future books. I'm ready for the rest in the series.
Would highly recommend "Of Snow and Sapphire" to any fantasy readers in need of a easy, fun fantasy read with a kingdom that will live on through future interconnected stories in the series. For fans of royal x royal guard and childhood friends to lovers 🥰
Thank you to Truly Yours PR and K.C. Silver for an e-arc copy of this book!
Just something in particular I really liked about this book was the set up for the other books in the series that are forthcoming! I'm super excited to see the other courts and get a glimpse into each of them through their novellas. Silver did a fantastic job getting me interested in future books. I'm ready for the rest in the series.
Would highly recommend "Of Snow and Sapphire" to any fantasy readers in need of a easy, fun fantasy read with a kingdom that will live on through future interconnected stories in the series. For fans of royal x royal guard and childhood friends to lovers 🥰
Thank you to Truly Yours PR and K.C. Silver for an e-arc copy of this book!
May 14, 2024
This was a fun little break from reality. This fast paced novella follows the story of Ludelle’s battle to prove herself worthy as the next Queen of the Snow Court. She must go through the Undertaking, a yearly challenge to prove herself worthy of the magic from the Weather Gods that sustains her court. She must also choose a consort, but struggles to reconcile her a forbidden love. The world building crammed into a book less than 150 pages was fantastic. The mentions of other courts made me curious to read the next books in the series.
Ludelle is a fierce character that refuses to take orders from anyone. She has claws (literally) and blue blood because of her royal lineage. Ludelle’s loyalty to her court determines all of her actions.
Zimyn is Ludelle’s lifelong friend and Captain of the Guard. He fears his continued presence may hinder Ludelle’s chances of succeeding in the Undertaking. Oh, and he has ICE SCALES, y’all.
There is a pinch of spice which felt a little forced. It contributed to the story, but the pacing leading up to it felt off.
Overall, this was a good read. K. C. Silver created a brutal, ice-encased world in which the heat of forbidden love may be everyone’s undoing.
Thank you Truly Yours PR and K. C. Silver for the eARC.
Ludelle is a fierce character that refuses to take orders from anyone. She has claws (literally) and blue blood because of her royal lineage. Ludelle’s loyalty to her court determines all of her actions.
Zimyn is Ludelle’s lifelong friend and Captain of the Guard. He fears his continued presence may hinder Ludelle’s chances of succeeding in the Undertaking. Oh, and he has ICE SCALES, y’all.
There is a pinch of spice which felt a little forced. It contributed to the story, but the pacing leading up to it felt off.
Overall, this was a good read. K. C. Silver created a brutal, ice-encased world in which the heat of forbidden love may be everyone’s undoing.
Thank you Truly Yours PR and K. C. Silver for the eARC.
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