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Ice Apprentices #1
Ice Apprentices
A frozen world, mighty monsters and spellbinding magic. Journey to the very edges of the world in this breathtaking fantasy trilogy.
Perfect for fans of Skandar and Philip Pullman . . .
Set in Tundra, a deserted world of frost and snow, Oswin Fields has always felt like an outsider, having been rescued from the outer expanses. So when he is sent to a school for ice apprentices, he sets out to prove his worth.
Soon he begins to learn a special kind of ice magic and finds that it isn't all as it seems in this enchanted place.
Then the beasts begin to strike, and he and his best friend, Ennastasia, have to risk everything they hold dear to protect the settlement. Will they succeed? Or will the world close in against them?
Perfect for fans of Skandar and Philip Pullman . . .
Set in Tundra, a deserted world of frost and snow, Oswin Fields has always felt like an outsider, having been rescued from the outer expanses. So when he is sent to a school for ice apprentices, he sets out to prove his worth.
Soon he begins to learn a special kind of ice magic and finds that it isn't all as it seems in this enchanted place.
Then the beasts begin to strike, and he and his best friend, Ennastasia, have to risk everything they hold dear to protect the settlement. Will they succeed? Or will the world close in against them?
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2025
9 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 7, 2024
Talk about being hooked, I could not put this book down!
You very quickly grow attached to Oswin, and you’ll find yourself rooting for him at every turn. He has a lot to prove but he’s brave, inquisitive and determined to become an ice apprentice. Despite his disadvantage of being a much maligned ‘stray’, he is set on breaking out of his small town life working endlessly in timber, to become an asset to the Tundra.
It was a really well weaved story and I loved the plot itself, not to mention the great characters. It was great navigating this story world with Oswin, and his encounters with Ennastasia were always entertaining!
It’s set itself up so well as a series and after this one, I can’t wait to rejoin the adventure with Oswin again in the next one!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
You very quickly grow attached to Oswin, and you’ll find yourself rooting for him at every turn. He has a lot to prove but he’s brave, inquisitive and determined to become an ice apprentice. Despite his disadvantage of being a much maligned ‘stray’, he is set on breaking out of his small town life working endlessly in timber, to become an asset to the Tundra.
It was a really well weaved story and I loved the plot itself, not to mention the great characters. It was great navigating this story world with Oswin, and his encounters with Ennastasia were always entertaining!
It’s set itself up so well as a series and after this one, I can’t wait to rejoin the adventure with Oswin again in the next one!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
January 22, 2025
I’m a middle school teacher and I’m always looking for a book I can recommend to my students. I would not be able to recommend this book to my students.
I enjoyed the story a lot. This book is very similar to Harry Potter, which I actually enjoyed. What could have been left out was the gender angle. The characters are well developed and there’s good action. I know many parents who would be irritated and surprised to see that this book, that’s supposed to be about overcoming your past and the people who judge you for where you come from, would find the few characters who were Transgender/gender fluid to be unnecessary.
I believe the purpose of the book is to teach children to accept people who are different from you and that was achieved by the main character being a stray and not being accepted. None of the other characters cared that the main character or other characters were Transgender/genderfluid, so it seemed unnecessary for the age group the book is targeting.
I enjoyed the story a lot. This book is very similar to Harry Potter, which I actually enjoyed. What could have been left out was the gender angle. The characters are well developed and there’s good action. I know many parents who would be irritated and surprised to see that this book, that’s supposed to be about overcoming your past and the people who judge you for where you come from, would find the few characters who were Transgender/gender fluid to be unnecessary.
I believe the purpose of the book is to teach children to accept people who are different from you and that was achieved by the main character being a stray and not being accepted. None of the other characters cared that the main character or other characters were Transgender/genderfluid, so it seemed unnecessary for the age group the book is targeting.
February 17, 2025
Ice Apprentices is a refreshing and fast-paced adventure that centers on Oswin, a determined young boy with a dream of becoming an ice apprentice. What sets this book apart is how it handles Oswin’s identity—he’s a trans character, but the story isn’t about his experience being trans. Instead, it focuses on his experiences at Corridor (a magical school where you learn ice magic) bravery, curiosity, and ambition, which makes him an incredibly relatable protagonist.
The magic system is unique and exciting, offering a fresh take on the familiar "magic school" trope. The world-building feels new and intriguing, with a focus on the craft of ice magic.
The pacing is spot-on, keeping you engaged from start to finish. Oswin’s journey is one of growth, challenge, and self-discovery, and you’ll quickly find yourself rooting for him every step of the way. Ice Apprentices is a wonderful reminder that all kids—no matter who they are—can have grand adventures.
The magic system is unique and exciting, offering a fresh take on the familiar "magic school" trope. The world-building feels new and intriguing, with a focus on the craft of ice magic.
The pacing is spot-on, keeping you engaged from start to finish. Oswin’s journey is one of growth, challenge, and self-discovery, and you’ll quickly find yourself rooting for him every step of the way. Ice Apprentices is a wonderful reminder that all kids—no matter who they are—can have grand adventures.
March 2, 2025
I ordered this book from my local indie bookstore and read it at the recommendation of a friend. Trying to decide which library to add it to, now - I can think of maybe one student to push it toward at school, while I am fairly certain I have two patrons who would read it at the public library. I could also order it for the public library easily, while it's hard to get non-Scholastic books into the school library.
This is very much an H.P. read-alike school story with monsters to fight, a magic school, mysterious goings-on, an outsider protagonist that isn't wanted by his caregiver, and a plucky, intelligent female sidekick. It reads a bit younger, though, particularly in the battles, tests, and overall delivery.
There is definitely a need for a sequel with a plot thread hanging, that epilogue (I mean, nothing there surprised me particularly, but it begs for future development), and the fact that I want to know if my theory about what Oswin *IS* is correct.
This book has intriguing world-building and a modestly diverse cast with a wheelchair-using headmaster, a transmale protagonist, a gender-fluid supporting character, and a few other supporting characters with unusual physical features. It could use a little more editing polish; I noticed a few inconsistencies and errors.
Ennastasia is my new favorite tsundere. I also like the hinted-at complexity of Secondmaster Sabel Rochelle.
A sequel will need more character growth and development from the protagonist, more magic getting cast (especially by said protagonist), and answers to questions left open. There are better magic school stories, but this isn't a bad debut by any means.
This is very much an H.P. read-alike school story with monsters to fight, a magic school, mysterious goings-on, an outsider protagonist that isn't wanted by his caregiver, and a plucky, intelligent female sidekick. It reads a bit younger, though, particularly in the battles, tests, and overall delivery.
There is definitely a need for a sequel with a plot thread hanging, that epilogue (I mean, nothing there surprised me particularly, but it begs for future development), and the fact that I want to know if my theory about what Oswin *IS* is correct.
This book has intriguing world-building and a modestly diverse cast with a wheelchair-using headmaster, a transmale protagonist, a gender-fluid supporting character, and a few other supporting characters with unusual physical features. It could use a little more editing polish; I noticed a few inconsistencies and errors.
Ennastasia is my new favorite tsundere. I also like the hinted-at complexity of Secondmaster Sabel Rochelle.
A sequel will need more character growth and development from the protagonist, more magic getting cast (especially by said protagonist), and answers to questions left open. There are better magic school stories, but this isn't a bad debut by any means.
August 7, 2025
amazing debut novel! really engaging, can't wait for the next one
April 26, 2025
Oswin is right where I want to start this book review. What a protagonist. Taking this adventure with Oswin and seeing the beauty of their humanity and neurodivergence was nothing but an absolute pleasure. Oswin is one of those protagonists that I think will stay in a lot of people’s hearts of a very long time. Growing up, I saw almost no representations of my own neurodivergence in the fiction I read (and if it was there it was treated as a negative character trait) so Oswin has brought a hope and a lightness to my heart that younger neurodivergent are going to get to read such a wonderful character who’s like them.
I said it a couple of times in 2024, but I will forever be impressed when someone creates a new form of magic as sometimes it does feel as though we’ve seen it all. Jacob North, however, has found a fun way to capture the magic of winter and form a perfect snowball of the mystical and fantastical. The creatures (meersnofs, kikorkas, no-reads and more), spells, lore, and world of Ice Apprentices are to be commended, and I can only imagine that they were incredibly fun to write as they were joyous to read. Younger me would’ve been equally mesmerised and cautious of the monsters, exactly as a good children’s book should.
I do have to take a second to herald praise upon Jacob North for showing how representation can and should be done. None of the diversity is forced, shoehorned in to check boxes, or misrepresented to fit a plot (as I’ve seen a couple of times in fiction this past year). It is just a depiction of the REAL world, which is beautifully diverse if you go outside and look at it. It was marvellous to see a cast that I think anyone, and I mean anyone would be able to find someone to relate to. No matter how much the world may be trying to send us back, this is what fiction in 2025 should look like and authors like Jacob North are the future and the frontier.
All in all, I was absolutely mesmerised by Ice Apprentices. My reaction to the ending (Don’t worry, no spoilers here) was so visceral I actually immediately DMed Jacob North to say I couldn’t believe it! I cannot wait for the sequel to this wonderful novel and see many incredible things on the horizon for Jacob North and Ice Apprentices. Now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to go wander the icy night outside and see if I can spot a kikorka…
I said it a couple of times in 2024, but I will forever be impressed when someone creates a new form of magic as sometimes it does feel as though we’ve seen it all. Jacob North, however, has found a fun way to capture the magic of winter and form a perfect snowball of the mystical and fantastical. The creatures (meersnofs, kikorkas, no-reads and more), spells, lore, and world of Ice Apprentices are to be commended, and I can only imagine that they were incredibly fun to write as they were joyous to read. Younger me would’ve been equally mesmerised and cautious of the monsters, exactly as a good children’s book should.
I do have to take a second to herald praise upon Jacob North for showing how representation can and should be done. None of the diversity is forced, shoehorned in to check boxes, or misrepresented to fit a plot (as I’ve seen a couple of times in fiction this past year). It is just a depiction of the REAL world, which is beautifully diverse if you go outside and look at it. It was marvellous to see a cast that I think anyone, and I mean anyone would be able to find someone to relate to. No matter how much the world may be trying to send us back, this is what fiction in 2025 should look like and authors like Jacob North are the future and the frontier.
All in all, I was absolutely mesmerised by Ice Apprentices. My reaction to the ending (Don’t worry, no spoilers here) was so visceral I actually immediately DMed Jacob North to say I couldn’t believe it! I cannot wait for the sequel to this wonderful novel and see many incredible things on the horizon for Jacob North and Ice Apprentices. Now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to go wander the icy night outside and see if I can spot a kikorka…
April 1, 2025
In his enthralling frost-filled debut novel, “Ice Apprentices”, Jacob North invites readers into a mesmerising world where magic and danger coexist amidst the icy expanses of Tundra, the last settlement in a frozen realm. Promising to kickstart an epic fantasy, this book captivated me from the very first page, weaving a narrative rich with mystery, bravery, and self-discovery that is as compelling as it is unique.
The story follows Oswin Fields, an outsider and the sole stray of Tundra, who has been rescued from the perilous Endless Expanse. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is summoned to Corridor, a revered magical school dedicated to training ice apprentices. As Oswin embarks on this journey, he aspires to prove his worth not only to himself but to a community that has long viewed him with suspicion. However, the path is fraught with challenges as he grapples with external hostility and internal doubts, especially given that his surname carries the weight of association with a disgraced family member.
North’s ability to craft a relatable protagonist is commendable. Oswin’s journey is not merely one of adventuring through a fantastical world but also an exploration of identity and belonging. While Oswin is a trans character, North skillfully ensures that the narrative does not revolve solely around that aspect of his identity. Instead, the focus lies on Oswin’s bravery, ambition, and the myriad experiences that shape his journey as an ice apprentice. This approach not only fosters a deeper connection with readers but also allows those who share similar experiences of being outsiders to find hope and resonance in his story. Seeing myself in him, Oswin has brought a hope and a lightness to my heart, truly a role-model in literature.
The world-building in “Ice Apprentices” is extraordinary and vividly rendered. North has painted a wintery landscape that feels both magical and achingly beautiful, where the delicate balance of survival is threatened by lurking monsters and hidden secrets. Readers are taken on a richly textured snow-filled journey, North made me want to leap into the pages of corridor and attend such classes on scelving, basic spellbookery, Etymagery, and culture whilst also playing a game of Huvect. Venturing from cabins to the perilous edges of Tundra and the Teeth that snatch . The carefully crafted magic system, which includes components like "Timber" and the intricacies of ice magic alongside oddities added depth to the narrative while providing a refreshing twist to the familiar "magic school" trope.
The magical frost-bitten icy beasts that populate this world—meersnofs, kikorkas, and no-reads—are imaginative and engaging, showcasing North's flair for conjuring a fantastical frosty reality that feels both playful and perilous. North captures the magic of winter and of the mystical and fantastical world beautifully… May the thaw be warm and the freeze be swift
Central to the emotional heartbeat of the story is the evolving friendship between Oswin and Ennastasia, another apprentice who struggles with her own fears and vulnerabilities including the weight of her family surname. Their bond, forged through shared challenges and mutual support begrudgingly slowly thaws becoming beautifully depicted. Oswin’s tenacity and curiosity of asking questions provide a healing touch to Ennastasia’s guarded demeanor, creating a friendship that feels genuine and uplifting. This relationship anchors the narrative and underscores themes of acceptance and the importance of connection amidst uncertainty.
North's writing is not only accessible but also imbued with a sense of wonder, drawing readers into the heart of Corridor. The lessons as previously mentioned in spellbinding subjects like "scelving" and "Etymagery" resonate with the joys and challenges of learning something new, mirroring Oswin’s own struggles and triumphs. One can sense the author’s excitement in crafting a narrative filled with enchanting spells and the cultural richness of this icy accessible world.
As the plot propels toward a thrilling climax, the stakes rise, leaving me on the edge of my seat, especially during THAT epilogue and now frantically yearning for the next installment releasing February 2026 . North skillfully balances action with emotional depth, providing moments of tension that are countered by heartwarming camaraderie. The conclusion hints at a grander mission awaiting the characters, leaving myself eager for future adventures in Corridor and throughout Tundra and its settlement and explorations in this captivating world. After all I need answers!
Jacob North has successfully laid the groundwork for an enchanting saga, blending elements of fantasy with real-world themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. This debut not only entertains but also inspires, paving the way for Oswin’s journey to resonate with readers, particularly those seeking representation and connection within the fantasy genre. As the first book in what promises to be an extraordinary trilogy, “Ice Apprentices”is a must-read for any fan of epic fantasy. Prepare to be entranced by a world filled with wintery wonder, courage, and the eternal pursuit of self-discovery.
The story follows Oswin Fields, an outsider and the sole stray of Tundra, who has been rescued from the perilous Endless Expanse. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is summoned to Corridor, a revered magical school dedicated to training ice apprentices. As Oswin embarks on this journey, he aspires to prove his worth not only to himself but to a community that has long viewed him with suspicion. However, the path is fraught with challenges as he grapples with external hostility and internal doubts, especially given that his surname carries the weight of association with a disgraced family member.
North’s ability to craft a relatable protagonist is commendable. Oswin’s journey is not merely one of adventuring through a fantastical world but also an exploration of identity and belonging. While Oswin is a trans character, North skillfully ensures that the narrative does not revolve solely around that aspect of his identity. Instead, the focus lies on Oswin’s bravery, ambition, and the myriad experiences that shape his journey as an ice apprentice. This approach not only fosters a deeper connection with readers but also allows those who share similar experiences of being outsiders to find hope and resonance in his story. Seeing myself in him, Oswin has brought a hope and a lightness to my heart, truly a role-model in literature.
The world-building in “Ice Apprentices” is extraordinary and vividly rendered. North has painted a wintery landscape that feels both magical and achingly beautiful, where the delicate balance of survival is threatened by lurking monsters and hidden secrets. Readers are taken on a richly textured snow-filled journey, North made me want to leap into the pages of corridor and attend such classes on scelving, basic spellbookery, Etymagery, and culture whilst also playing a game of Huvect. Venturing from cabins to the perilous edges of Tundra and the Teeth that snatch . The carefully crafted magic system, which includes components like "Timber" and the intricacies of ice magic alongside oddities added depth to the narrative while providing a refreshing twist to the familiar "magic school" trope.
The magical frost-bitten icy beasts that populate this world—meersnofs, kikorkas, and no-reads—are imaginative and engaging, showcasing North's flair for conjuring a fantastical frosty reality that feels both playful and perilous. North captures the magic of winter and of the mystical and fantastical world beautifully… May the thaw be warm and the freeze be swift
Central to the emotional heartbeat of the story is the evolving friendship between Oswin and Ennastasia, another apprentice who struggles with her own fears and vulnerabilities including the weight of her family surname. Their bond, forged through shared challenges and mutual support begrudgingly slowly thaws becoming beautifully depicted. Oswin’s tenacity and curiosity of asking questions provide a healing touch to Ennastasia’s guarded demeanor, creating a friendship that feels genuine and uplifting. This relationship anchors the narrative and underscores themes of acceptance and the importance of connection amidst uncertainty.
North's writing is not only accessible but also imbued with a sense of wonder, drawing readers into the heart of Corridor. The lessons as previously mentioned in spellbinding subjects like "scelving" and "Etymagery" resonate with the joys and challenges of learning something new, mirroring Oswin’s own struggles and triumphs. One can sense the author’s excitement in crafting a narrative filled with enchanting spells and the cultural richness of this icy accessible world.
As the plot propels toward a thrilling climax, the stakes rise, leaving me on the edge of my seat, especially during THAT epilogue and now frantically yearning for the next installment releasing February 2026 . North skillfully balances action with emotional depth, providing moments of tension that are countered by heartwarming camaraderie. The conclusion hints at a grander mission awaiting the characters, leaving myself eager for future adventures in Corridor and throughout Tundra and its settlement and explorations in this captivating world. After all I need answers!
Jacob North has successfully laid the groundwork for an enchanting saga, blending elements of fantasy with real-world themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. This debut not only entertains but also inspires, paving the way for Oswin’s journey to resonate with readers, particularly those seeking representation and connection within the fantasy genre. As the first book in what promises to be an extraordinary trilogy, “Ice Apprentices”is a must-read for any fan of epic fantasy. Prepare to be entranced by a world filled with wintery wonder, courage, and the eternal pursuit of self-discovery.
June 25, 2025
What worked:
Placing the story in a land of ice is very unusual. Tundra has two seasons, the Freeze and the Thaw. There is no food production during the Freeze, so hunger will follow. The book opens at the beginning of the Thaw, but all of the ice and snow make it hard to tell. Most of the story is set at the Corridor, an academy for apprentices learning to become useful to Tundra. A wall of ice sits right next to the dormitories, and no one has ever returned after entering the Teeth That Snatch. Creatures roam the icy wasteland, and they haven’t entered Corridor grounds in ten years, until now. Living in this environment is difficult and dangerous, which adds a level of wonder and uncertainty to the story.
Oswin is the main character, and his unique qualities make him appealing. His curiosity is insatiable, and readers will be amused when it irritates other characters. He constantly asks questions of other apprentices and teachers until they eventually tell him to stop. Oswin’s super-sensitive hearing allows him to detect sounds others can’t hear, and he can recall the smallest details of things he sees. He doesn’t remember being taught to read or write, yet he unexpectedly reads a book and scribes class notes. Oswin has an unexplained fear of heights, even climbing a ladder, and any kind of fire, even a candle. He doesn’t remember anything about his early life, but still views himself as an undeserving stray.
Oswin’s various classmates have distinct relationships with him. Maury comes the closest to being a friend, but Oswin’s low self-image keeps him from letting it grow. Cathy detests Oswin for being a stray and makes it her mission to put him in his place or get him kicked out of the Corridor. Ennastasia may be the most interesting character. Her last name is Barkmoth, and she wields it like a weapon. Teachers and other apprentices treat her reverently and do their best not to offend her. However, she also seems upset when she’s not treated like others. Oswin doesn’t know why her last name is special, so he asks her questions endlessly and doesn’t go out of his way to impress her. Their rapport may seem contentious, but friendship develops (very slowly!) as their paths constantly cross.
What didn’t work as well:
The book’s opening pages provide a map of the Tundra, but it would help to have a map of the Corridor. Characters move to different locations, but it’s challenging to create mental images when guessing how they’re situated with each other. Almost the entire book takes place at the academy, so the Tundra map doesn’t serve a purpose.
The final verdict:
Oswin’s low self-image, insatiable curiosity, and strange qualities make this a charming book. Young readers will root for him to succeed, as he battles dangers and the shadow of his disgraced and dangerous uncle. His relationship with Ennastasia is a highlight. Overall, I highly recommend you give this book a shot.
Placing the story in a land of ice is very unusual. Tundra has two seasons, the Freeze and the Thaw. There is no food production during the Freeze, so hunger will follow. The book opens at the beginning of the Thaw, but all of the ice and snow make it hard to tell. Most of the story is set at the Corridor, an academy for apprentices learning to become useful to Tundra. A wall of ice sits right next to the dormitories, and no one has ever returned after entering the Teeth That Snatch. Creatures roam the icy wasteland, and they haven’t entered Corridor grounds in ten years, until now. Living in this environment is difficult and dangerous, which adds a level of wonder and uncertainty to the story.
Oswin is the main character, and his unique qualities make him appealing. His curiosity is insatiable, and readers will be amused when it irritates other characters. He constantly asks questions of other apprentices and teachers until they eventually tell him to stop. Oswin’s super-sensitive hearing allows him to detect sounds others can’t hear, and he can recall the smallest details of things he sees. He doesn’t remember being taught to read or write, yet he unexpectedly reads a book and scribes class notes. Oswin has an unexplained fear of heights, even climbing a ladder, and any kind of fire, even a candle. He doesn’t remember anything about his early life, but still views himself as an undeserving stray.
Oswin’s various classmates have distinct relationships with him. Maury comes the closest to being a friend, but Oswin’s low self-image keeps him from letting it grow. Cathy detests Oswin for being a stray and makes it her mission to put him in his place or get him kicked out of the Corridor. Ennastasia may be the most interesting character. Her last name is Barkmoth, and she wields it like a weapon. Teachers and other apprentices treat her reverently and do their best not to offend her. However, she also seems upset when she’s not treated like others. Oswin doesn’t know why her last name is special, so he asks her questions endlessly and doesn’t go out of his way to impress her. Their rapport may seem contentious, but friendship develops (very slowly!) as their paths constantly cross.
What didn’t work as well:
The book’s opening pages provide a map of the Tundra, but it would help to have a map of the Corridor. Characters move to different locations, but it’s challenging to create mental images when guessing how they’re situated with each other. Almost the entire book takes place at the academy, so the Tundra map doesn’t serve a purpose.
The final verdict:
Oswin’s low self-image, insatiable curiosity, and strange qualities make this a charming book. Young readers will root for him to succeed, as he battles dangers and the shadow of his disgraced and dangerous uncle. His relationship with Ennastasia is a highlight. Overall, I highly recommend you give this book a shot.
January 28, 2025
Top class! Harry Potter on ice. Sort of. This is a sparkly read with some decent themes and an adventure around every corner. I think Middle Graders looking for a magic universe where belonging is the most important issue will find this ticks every box. Our main characters Oswin is an outcast and he is unsure about where he fits into things especially as he gets summoned to the Corridor as an Ice Apprentice even though he’s a ‘stray.’ From here it’s all about fitting in and he is up against it. Owning the same surname as the mysterious Michael Fields who was banished to the Endless Expanse for some vague yet heinous crime does not help.
From here we have a fairly predictable set of events: some trials, some sabotage, some very original monsters and a set of teachers who sometimes make life pretty complicated. All of these are great fun. I really felt the author knocked himself out thinking up new angles on fairly standard tropes and it worked. Also, a nutty sense of humour is always a bonus. I liked that some of Oswin’s peers are unlikeable, do morally questionable things. I also like having characters whose identity is a bit fluid but that this fact does not in the least feature as the biggest issue. The real issues here are acceptance of not just where you come from but how well you do when the pressure is on, how protective are you of others, how do you react when you fail, or when others fail. Lots to think about.
Standout for me is the relationship Oswin develops with Ennestasia, a snooty, standoffish girl who is connected to the venerated Barkmoth family. The air positively crackles between them, the banter is barbed but the persistence and reluctance from each side is very well depicted. I think younger readers will embrace the Universe of Tundra and Ice while finding themselves in the very familiar surrounds of a school for magic. A super addition to the middle grade fantasy list and I’m very excited to read more.
From here we have a fairly predictable set of events: some trials, some sabotage, some very original monsters and a set of teachers who sometimes make life pretty complicated. All of these are great fun. I really felt the author knocked himself out thinking up new angles on fairly standard tropes and it worked. Also, a nutty sense of humour is always a bonus. I liked that some of Oswin’s peers are unlikeable, do morally questionable things. I also like having characters whose identity is a bit fluid but that this fact does not in the least feature as the biggest issue. The real issues here are acceptance of not just where you come from but how well you do when the pressure is on, how protective are you of others, how do you react when you fail, or when others fail. Lots to think about.
Standout for me is the relationship Oswin develops with Ennestasia, a snooty, standoffish girl who is connected to the venerated Barkmoth family. The air positively crackles between them, the banter is barbed but the persistence and reluctance from each side is very well depicted. I think younger readers will embrace the Universe of Tundra and Ice while finding themselves in the very familiar surrounds of a school for magic. A super addition to the middle grade fantasy list and I’m very excited to read more.
January 2, 2026
❄️ ❄️ Ice Apprentices by Jacob North ❄️ ❄️
My first finished book of 2026! Just 99 to go.
🥇 Ice Apprentices is North’s debut and I greatly enjoyed it. The first 100 pages or so took me ages to get into (not a criticism), due to the complexity of the setting and character development. As it’s a trilogy, I feel I will read book two much quicker because the foundations are laid.
🙌🏽 I enjoyed the diversity of the characters and as a teacher, I know how important it is for people to feel represented in a book. To be able to open a story and see yourself in it is paramount and I loved that Jacob did that.
⁉️ The character of Oswin, a transgender boy, is a complex one - he is super inquisitive, resilient, has a photographic memory and definitely has many differences and traits we are yet to discover (hopefully in book two). I had an inkling about him being from the ice himself, so I’ll be interested to see if I’m correct. There are many references to his poor lung health too, so I think in knowing more about ‘home’ this will make more sense. Again, lots of inclusivity from the author.
🥰 The unlikely friendship between Oswin and Ennastasia was brilliant. Loved their banter and the second half of the book really championed them as they began to trust each other. Ennastasia lives in the shadow of her uncle’s name and Oswin is classed as a ‘stray’, so love how they both just migrated together and didn’t care much for the judgement of others. I particularly loved the bridge scene and how Ennastasia didn’t think twice to save her ‘friend’.
📚 I have an ARC copy of The Frozen Curse from the awesome by The Rebel Reading Society to get stuck into next.
My first finished book of 2026! Just 99 to go.
🥇 Ice Apprentices is North’s debut and I greatly enjoyed it. The first 100 pages or so took me ages to get into (not a criticism), due to the complexity of the setting and character development. As it’s a trilogy, I feel I will read book two much quicker because the foundations are laid.
🙌🏽 I enjoyed the diversity of the characters and as a teacher, I know how important it is for people to feel represented in a book. To be able to open a story and see yourself in it is paramount and I loved that Jacob did that.
⁉️ The character of Oswin, a transgender boy, is a complex one - he is super inquisitive, resilient, has a photographic memory and definitely has many differences and traits we are yet to discover (hopefully in book two). I had an inkling about him being from the ice himself, so I’ll be interested to see if I’m correct. There are many references to his poor lung health too, so I think in knowing more about ‘home’ this will make more sense. Again, lots of inclusivity from the author.
🥰 The unlikely friendship between Oswin and Ennastasia was brilliant. Loved their banter and the second half of the book really championed them as they began to trust each other. Ennastasia lives in the shadow of her uncle’s name and Oswin is classed as a ‘stray’, so love how they both just migrated together and didn’t care much for the judgement of others. I particularly loved the bridge scene and how Ennastasia didn’t think twice to save her ‘friend’.
📚 I have an ARC copy of The Frozen Curse from the awesome by The Rebel Reading Society to get stuck into next.
March 16, 2025
Rep: all white cast (assuming because race never mentioned) trans ftm MC, and gender-fluid SC, MC has asthma
I thought this book was very fun! It gave the right childhood fantasy vibes with a solid misunderstood character children can relate to.
The only concern is the TYPE of messages it’s sending out. Oswin pretty consistently puts himself down, is very clearly abused from mother, peers, and even his future best friend. I would’ve liked to see more resolution coming from that or self-growth. Maybe it’ll come in other books but for now I’m not inclined to give it to my kids. ALSO, Oswin doesn’t practice safe binding. At all. Which is super concerning because that can permanently injure someone/cause someone to not be able to get life saving gender affirming top surgery in the future. Lastly on things I would like to see improved in the future is the disability representation. Oswin says he “has a fragile body” when he just has asthma. It’s just a little inconsiderate of children who do have more physical disabilities to hear that from a character to who can run and fight. Oswin has fragile lungs which is detrimental and important to know about and address, but he does not have a fragile body.
I know I just had a huge paragraph of things I didn’t like, but that’s because this is a children’s book that I’m more passionate about the message. However, this book was so fun and there is so much room for more story (which I’m looking forward to reading) and uncovering the truth. I definitely hope the series improves some aspects so I can present it to my children someday.
I thought this book was very fun! It gave the right childhood fantasy vibes with a solid misunderstood character children can relate to.
The only concern is the TYPE of messages it’s sending out. Oswin pretty consistently puts himself down, is very clearly abused from mother, peers, and even his future best friend. I would’ve liked to see more resolution coming from that or self-growth. Maybe it’ll come in other books but for now I’m not inclined to give it to my kids. ALSO, Oswin doesn’t practice safe binding. At all. Which is super concerning because that can permanently injure someone/cause someone to not be able to get life saving gender affirming top surgery in the future. Lastly on things I would like to see improved in the future is the disability representation. Oswin says he “has a fragile body” when he just has asthma. It’s just a little inconsiderate of children who do have more physical disabilities to hear that from a character to who can run and fight. Oswin has fragile lungs which is detrimental and important to know about and address, but he does not have a fragile body.
I know I just had a huge paragraph of things I didn’t like, but that’s because this is a children’s book that I’m more passionate about the message. However, this book was so fun and there is so much room for more story (which I’m looking forward to reading) and uncovering the truth. I definitely hope the series improves some aspects so I can present it to my children someday.
December 23, 2024
A tale full of ice-cold magic set in a unique school, perfect for middle-grade readers.
The Ice Apprentices is an adventurous tale set at the heart of Corridor, a special school where students learn about the magic that fills the icy lands they live in. For me, the world-building in this story was the standout feature: the concept of the school itself, as well as the frosty land it is set in with all its special quircks (including growing logs from splinters!). Oswin is the main character trying to find his place amongst his Tundran peers. Despite not having been born in Central Tundra and despite his family name, Oswin is a young character who strives to prove that he belongs at the school. The story is highly visual: I would love to see this as an animated film adaptation!
However, while the world and its magic are intriguing, I found myself wanting more backstory on certain aspects of the story, particularly Lullia's character and how Oswin came to stay with her. The magic system and rules of this world have only started to be fully explained and become clearer over time, so I think there’s definitely potential for more adventures in this frosty land! Three stars and probably more stars when the full trilogy comes out and makes the most of this icy world!
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC. This is my honest opinion of the book.
The Ice Apprentices is an adventurous tale set at the heart of Corridor, a special school where students learn about the magic that fills the icy lands they live in. For me, the world-building in this story was the standout feature: the concept of the school itself, as well as the frosty land it is set in with all its special quircks (including growing logs from splinters!). Oswin is the main character trying to find his place amongst his Tundran peers. Despite not having been born in Central Tundra and despite his family name, Oswin is a young character who strives to prove that he belongs at the school. The story is highly visual: I would love to see this as an animated film adaptation!
However, while the world and its magic are intriguing, I found myself wanting more backstory on certain aspects of the story, particularly Lullia's character and how Oswin came to stay with her. The magic system and rules of this world have only started to be fully explained and become clearer over time, so I think there’s definitely potential for more adventures in this frosty land! Three stars and probably more stars when the full trilogy comes out and makes the most of this icy world!
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC. This is my honest opinion of the book.
January 3, 2026
Oswin has spent his entire life that he can remember as a stray, feeling apologetic for every mouthful he eats and working harder than he thinks possible in order to please his foster mother and help Tundra, the last settlement in a world of ice, survive. When he is handpicked to join the apprentices and learn magic, he is humbled and afraid, especially when, the moment he arrives, strange happenings take place. Oswin tries his best to learn because any failure of semester exams will cause his exile from Corridor back to the ice fields. However, his learning is complicated by the sinister legacy of his foster uncle, of whom no one will speak as well as his budding friendship with a daughter of one of the most powerful families in Tundra. His foster brother Zylo tries to help him, but when events come to a head, Oswin must rely on his own learning and powers to help Corridor, and indeed, Tundra, to survive. The world building in this book was intriguing.
March 21, 2025
This is in the style of many contemporary books for the 8-12 Market.
Child from a poor background, goes to a school/training place where they meet lots of challenges:strange people, situations and knowledge to learn. They battle against the bad, stick with what is right, find friends.
Key example is obviously Harry Potter but within the last year I've also read Greenwild Crookhaven and Paper Dragons to name just 3. All very well written, often the first in a new series but all similar in structure. The settings and the chalkenges change but...
I'm sure it's popular but sometimes I feel that ive read it before, the originality doesn't hit home (unlike reaction to thes1dt Harty Potter, many moons ago).
An that's Ice Apprentices.
Set in a futuristic land called the Tibdra, the world has frozen over but young people need an education to the skills needed to survive in a difficult environment... and magic/monsters seem to lurk around every corner...
Child from a poor background, goes to a school/training place where they meet lots of challenges:strange people, situations and knowledge to learn. They battle against the bad, stick with what is right, find friends.
Key example is obviously Harry Potter but within the last year I've also read Greenwild Crookhaven and Paper Dragons to name just 3. All very well written, often the first in a new series but all similar in structure. The settings and the chalkenges change but...
I'm sure it's popular but sometimes I feel that ive read it before, the originality doesn't hit home (unlike reaction to thes1dt Harty Potter, many moons ago).
An that's Ice Apprentices.
Set in a futuristic land called the Tibdra, the world has frozen over but young people need an education to the skills needed to survive in a difficult environment... and magic/monsters seem to lurk around every corner...
June 26, 2025
Oswin lives in a frozen world and is called to become an ice apprentice even though he is a “stray” being raised – and worked – by a foster mother. Although he is reunited with his brother at the magical school, he is ostracized by his classmates and feels he will never be a true “Tundran.” With strong world-building, villains, and dangers, this is not just another orphan with magical abilities goes to magic school book.
February 25, 2025
4 1/2 stars (Reviewed by middle-grade aspiring writer) Well executed, a few loose plot-lines but otherwise incredible. I would easily bump this up to 5 stars depending on the next book. I loved the playful dynamic between Ennastasia and Oswin. All in all a book that will remain on my shelves for at least two more years.
March 1, 2025
Great world building and interactions between characters, especially between the brothers. I appreciate the lgbtqia+ references- they feel naturally woven in, not forceful or overlooked.
One of my favourite elements are the monsters. They are unique, clever and exciting. Can’t wait to see what other beasts Oswin will encounter!
One of my favourite elements are the monsters. They are unique, clever and exciting. Can’t wait to see what other beasts Oswin will encounter!
April 25, 2025
Oswin and Ennastasia are great characters, but I didn't care enough about the world-building to pay much attention. The most notable thing about this book is the diversity in gender identity and disability.
I don't think I'll read the next one. Fortunately there are only 4 more days till the next Nevermoor book comes out!
I don't think I'll read the next one. Fortunately there are only 4 more days till the next Nevermoor book comes out!
February 13, 2025
A fun, inclusive fantasy/adventure/mystery.
April 6, 2025
My 11yo son read this, was so hooked from the start and read it faster then any other book. We can't wait for book 2.
Great job Jacob.
Great job Jacob.
April 10, 2025
Really good!
January 11, 2026
Good school-age fantasy book.
December 12, 2024
This is an exciting children’s minster and magic adventure. A boy is taken, from being an outcast having been found in the outer expanses of the Tundra, to a school for ice apprentices. There he finds danger, new friends, excitement and a lot more about his family. Things he was not told about before he arrives. But Oswin Fields is bright and observant, with lots of questions continually springing into his mind, and he’s ready to overcome the difficulties and solve the puzzles thrown in his way. Thank you to Simon and Schuster UK Children’s and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
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