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Upon a Frosted Star
When the snow falls, she will be free…
The invitations always arrive the same way – without warning, appearing around the city on the first snowfall of the year, simply inscribed with ‘Tonight.’
When struggling artist, Forster, finds an invitation, he’s bewitched by the magic of the evening, swept up in the glamour of this notorious annual party and intrigued as to who is behind them.
Determined to find out more about the mysterious host, Forster discovers an abandoned manor house silent with secrets and a cursed woman who is desparate to be free…
The invitations always arrive the same way – without warning, appearing around the city on the first snowfall of the year, simply inscribed with ‘Tonight.’
When struggling artist, Forster, finds an invitation, he’s bewitched by the magic of the evening, swept up in the glamour of this notorious annual party and intrigued as to who is behind them.
Determined to find out more about the mysterious host, Forster discovers an abandoned manor house silent with secrets and a cursed woman who is desparate to be free…
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 21, 2023
286 people are currently reading
7940 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Kuzniar
5 books242 followersM.A. Kuzniar is also published under the name Maria Kuzniar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 626 reviews
December 31, 2024
🦢 ⌇ ⊹ 2 stars
it sounded so promising. like something out s fairytale, but sadly it ended up being a huge disappointment. i really enjoyed the first 50 pages, but the moment the forester found out that detta was cursed which made her turn into a swan everything went downhill. it was getting more and more boring with every chapter that at some point i started to think it'd cure my insomnia if i had one. and yes, this book had a magical vibe, and that's the only thing i liked abt it. unfortunately, it failed to deliver on the characters and their relationship's depth front. i couldn't care less abt detta & forster. they were so bland and felt so flat. forster's entire personality was: art and obsessing over detta. dude became faster obsessed w her than i did with jacks. and that says a lot. their relationship was the most unrealistic thing even. i mean even turkish shows aren't that unrealistic. trust me. detta's pov came in way too late, and it didn't bear any importantce. besides the last chapter in which we finally found out how she was turned into a swan. her chapters were pretty descriptive, and ngl it made me kinda tired. moreover, i felt like there were only three things happening over and over again in this book — painting, parties and dreams. and the part that disappointed me the body was detta's dancing scenes. since i love the swan lake ballet 🩰 i was excited to see how this part of the book would be handled, and ugh it was hella disappointing. the descriptions felt way too similar, and the author didn't manage to capture the magic of this ballet. what's more, this story spans over several years, but the author definitely failed to capture well the passage of time. also, i didn't feel anything when it came to such important parts of this book as love and friendship. they were just there, but they totally lacked any depth. and it's nothing like stephanie garber's books. idk if if should feel insulted by the fact that it was recommended for her fans.
🦢 ⌇ ⊹ pre-read
one day i went to a bookstore (surprsing. yeah, i know) and this book caught my attention. i mean, look at the cover! i was just mesmerized by the beauty of it. so obvs i looked it up, and the sec uncle google said it had fairytale vibes, and was recommended for stephanie garber's fans i was sold. it's apparently inspired by the swan lake ballet 🩰 so i'm really intrigued. and also, it's artist x cursed woman! ❄️ it literally screams perfect, winter read so i just hope it's as wonderful as it sounds 🥹
⟢ "I want to see the bluebells carpet the woods, bathe in sunlight and swim in the lake when it's warm and golden with summer, and dance through fields of wildflowers with you. But that will never happen. It is an impossible dream. And I shall not have you condemned to a life of waiting for snowfall.".ᐟremind me to never ever again get fooled by pretty covers.
it sounded so promising. like something out s fairytale, but sadly it ended up being a huge disappointment. i really enjoyed the first 50 pages, but the moment the forester found out that detta was cursed which made her turn into a swan everything went downhill. it was getting more and more boring with every chapter that at some point i started to think it'd cure my insomnia if i had one. and yes, this book had a magical vibe, and that's the only thing i liked abt it. unfortunately, it failed to deliver on the characters and their relationship's depth front. i couldn't care less abt detta & forster. they were so bland and felt so flat. forster's entire personality was: art and obsessing over detta. dude became faster obsessed w her than i did with jacks. and that says a lot. their relationship was the most unrealistic thing even. i mean even turkish shows aren't that unrealistic. trust me. detta's pov came in way too late, and it didn't bear any importantce. besides the last chapter in which we finally found out how she was turned into a swan. her chapters were pretty descriptive, and ngl it made me kinda tired. moreover, i felt like there were only three things happening over and over again in this book — painting, parties and dreams. and the part that disappointed me the body was detta's dancing scenes. since i love the swan lake ballet 🩰 i was excited to see how this part of the book would be handled, and ugh it was hella disappointing. the descriptions felt way too similar, and the author didn't manage to capture the magic of this ballet. what's more, this story spans over several years, but the author definitely failed to capture well the passage of time. also, i didn't feel anything when it came to such important parts of this book as love and friendship. they were just there, but they totally lacked any depth. and it's nothing like stephanie garber's books. idk if if should feel insulted by the fact that it was recommended for her fans.
🦢 ⌇ ⊹ pre-read
one day i went to a bookstore (surprsing. yeah, i know) and this book caught my attention. i mean, look at the cover! i was just mesmerized by the beauty of it. so obvs i looked it up, and the sec uncle google said it had fairytale vibes, and was recommended for stephanie garber's fans i was sold. it's apparently inspired by the swan lake ballet 🩰 so i'm really intrigued. and also, it's artist x cursed woman! ❄️ it literally screams perfect, winter read so i just hope it's as wonderful as it sounds 🥹
January 2, 2025
Baśniowa, smutna i ponadczasowa
February 18, 2024
Ok, so I loved the premise. In a Manor House in the country a most secret and extravagant party is thrown every year.
Forster and his best friends Rose and Marvin are always on the look out for the elusive invitations which tell of the theme and date of the next spectacular event.
The parties are thrown by a mysterious woman, who usually turns up to perform a ballet dance before melting away into the shadows.
Who is she? Forster becomes entranced and infatuated, determined to know more of this girl.
Once we know of Etta’s secret I felt it started to drag, it was very piney - Forster is constantly yearning and whining. And yes it was unfair, such is life, but I got a bit tired reading about it.
And then the ending
All very dramatic and a bit too much for me. But then I’m basically dead inside 😂
Forster and his best friends Rose and Marvin are always on the look out for the elusive invitations which tell of the theme and date of the next spectacular event.
The parties are thrown by a mysterious woman, who usually turns up to perform a ballet dance before melting away into the shadows.
Who is she? Forster becomes entranced and infatuated, determined to know more of this girl.
Once we know of Etta’s secret I felt it started to drag, it was very piney - Forster is constantly yearning and whining. And yes it was unfair, such is life, but I got a bit tired reading about it.
And then the ending
All very dramatic and a bit too much for me. But then I’m basically dead inside 😂
Want to read
September 23, 2023A fairytale that's going to be a mix of the Great Gatsby meets Swan Lake? I hope this is going to be as magical as it sounds.
November 21, 2024
I read Midnight in Everwood by this author a couple of years ago and really enjoyed it. I was excited to see that she had written another book and immediately added Upon a Frosted Star to my tbr. Swan Lake is my favorite ballet so the premise of the book instantly had my interest. The prose was was absolutely stunning and very well suited for the fairytale vibes and atmosphere of the story.
I liked all of the characters. Each had their flaws, but still remained likeable even when I found some of their decisions to be frustrating. The pacing was a little slow at times which may be an issue for some readers. This book worked well for me and I think it was a great choice for a winter read. If you enjoy magical realism and purple prose, this one is worth picking up.
I liked all of the characters. Each had their flaws, but still remained likeable even when I found some of their decisions to be frustrating. The pacing was a little slow at times which may be an issue for some readers. This book worked well for me and I think it was a great choice for a winter read. If you enjoy magical realism and purple prose, this one is worth picking up.
Read
December 31, 2024RTC when I get back home.
───※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※───
•°. *࿐ˏˋ𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌ˊˎ
↷ ˊ- A Swan Lake retelling for Christmas🎄 sounds cute💓
───※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※───
───※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※───
•°. *࿐ˏˋ𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌ˊˎ
↷ ˊ- A Swan Lake retelling for Christmas🎄 sounds cute💓
───※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※───
April 10, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ stories for this advanced copy.
I was a big fan of Midnight in Everwood so I was excited to read the next book from Kuzniar. However, it didn’t share the same magical quality as Everwood and I felt the cons outweighed the pros.
Frosted Star is told from the perspective of Forster who attends a lavish party with his friend Marvin and falls for a mysterious ballet dancer he sees that night. As he tries to find out who she is he realises she has a much darker past than he could begin to imagine.
I loved the setting of the book and the wintery feel it had throughout. The lavish parties jumped off the page and made me wish to be there. I also enjoy the way Kuzniar beautifully writes dialogue.
My issues came with the characters as they all felt underwritten. Beginning with Forster, it was an interesting choice to have the story told from the male perspective and after a while I grew bored and felt he was too hollow of a character to hold the story.
My favourite character was Detta but I feel she did not have enough time in this book. It isn’t until around a third that the narrative changes to her perspective and we slowly begin to gain insight into how she ended up the way she is. I would have loved to have had more of the story from her perspective and much earlier in the book as by page 100 I was forcing myself to continue reading.
It also felt at times as if Marvin and Rose had no real need to be apart of the story, especially towards the end. They offered no real connection to Forster and Marvin never held much of an antagonist position.
A character I would have loved more of is Rothbart. He had the potential to be a much bigger villain but as we rarely had Detta’s POV in the book, we did not get much Rothbart either.
I also had issues with the pacing of the book. As mentioned previously, it often felt like a struggle to continue reading this book to get to something interesting with many of the chapters feeling like filler. I believe the ending has a lot of potential but only if there is more build up to it throughout the story.
Overall, I think the book is just fine, but does not hold a candle to Everwood. The magic spark is not there and having the story told from a male perspective did not work for me.
I was a big fan of Midnight in Everwood so I was excited to read the next book from Kuzniar. However, it didn’t share the same magical quality as Everwood and I felt the cons outweighed the pros.
Frosted Star is told from the perspective of Forster who attends a lavish party with his friend Marvin and falls for a mysterious ballet dancer he sees that night. As he tries to find out who she is he realises she has a much darker past than he could begin to imagine.
I loved the setting of the book and the wintery feel it had throughout. The lavish parties jumped off the page and made me wish to be there. I also enjoy the way Kuzniar beautifully writes dialogue.
My issues came with the characters as they all felt underwritten. Beginning with Forster, it was an interesting choice to have the story told from the male perspective and after a while I grew bored and felt he was too hollow of a character to hold the story.
My favourite character was Detta but I feel she did not have enough time in this book. It isn’t until around a third that the narrative changes to her perspective and we slowly begin to gain insight into how she ended up the way she is. I would have loved to have had more of the story from her perspective and much earlier in the book as by page 100 I was forcing myself to continue reading.
It also felt at times as if Marvin and Rose had no real need to be apart of the story, especially towards the end. They offered no real connection to Forster and Marvin never held much of an antagonist position.
A character I would have loved more of is Rothbart. He had the potential to be a much bigger villain but as we rarely had Detta’s POV in the book, we did not get much Rothbart either.
I also had issues with the pacing of the book. As mentioned previously, it often felt like a struggle to continue reading this book to get to something interesting with many of the chapters feeling like filler. I believe the ending has a lot of potential but only if there is more build up to it throughout the story.
Overall, I think the book is just fine, but does not hold a candle to Everwood. The magic spark is not there and having the story told from a male perspective did not work for me.
January 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Ta końcówka... 🥺❤️🩹
Ta końcówka... 🥺❤️🩹
August 4, 2023
So much potential but it ended up being not as good as expected.
The plot keeps going in circles and the repetitive pattern is annoying. Painting, parties, dreams. repeat.
You could sense the inspiration of the Great Gatsby additionally to Swan Lake. The author tried to depict ambition and parties but it lacked the spark to ignite it. The descriptions too seemed similar and never did they capture my attention or bedazzled me.
The timeline stretches on several years but I don’t think the writing captured the passing of time. Some events had to be regular occurrences like Forster’s birthdays but not the rest.
From the beginning, I was much more invested in Rose’s and Marvin’s story that I didn’t really care for the ballerina. The first encounter is a complete miss! I was surprised by Forster’s obsession with her because it didn’t read as THE moment when he met her!
The characters are all so bland! I was first glad that the main voice was a man’s but it lacked depth. His family history serves as suspense in the first part and there’s actually nothing more to it! He paints, he is estranged from his family and he loves the ballerina… those are his sole traits!
Detta’s chapters arrive too late and were honestly kind of useless! We don’t have the answers we seek until the very end, sort of.
It scratched the surface of many things I like: retellings, lyrical descriptions, art, tragical love, found family etc but it wasn’t good enough imo.
Midnight in Everwood was way more graphic and magical! I’m used to reading books with lush descriptions, slow plots and atmospheric writing. That was not it.
2.7
The plot keeps going in circles and the repetitive pattern is annoying. Painting, parties, dreams. repeat.
You could sense the inspiration of the Great Gatsby additionally to Swan Lake. The author tried to depict ambition and parties but it lacked the spark to ignite it. The descriptions too seemed similar and never did they capture my attention or bedazzled me.
The timeline stretches on several years but I don’t think the writing captured the passing of time. Some events had to be regular occurrences like Forster’s birthdays but not the rest.
From the beginning, I was much more invested in Rose’s and Marvin’s story that I didn’t really care for the ballerina. The first encounter is a complete miss! I was surprised by Forster’s obsession with her because it didn’t read as THE moment when he met her!
The characters are all so bland! I was first glad that the main voice was a man’s but it lacked depth. His family history serves as suspense in the first part and there’s actually nothing more to it! He paints, he is estranged from his family and he loves the ballerina… those are his sole traits!
Detta’s chapters arrive too late and were honestly kind of useless! We don’t have the answers we seek until the very end, sort of.
It scratched the surface of many things I like: retellings, lyrical descriptions, art, tragical love, found family etc but it wasn’t good enough imo.
Midnight in Everwood was way more graphic and magical! I’m used to reading books with lush descriptions, slow plots and atmospheric writing. That was not it.
2.7
January 16, 2025
Uwielbiam rodzaj baśniowości, którego używa Kuzniar, ale ta książka niestety strasznie mnie zawiodła, głównie dlatego, że zamiast wybitnej baśni mamy tu co dwie strony dramatyczne przemowy, dotyczące tego, jak to oni się niesamowicie kochają. Naprawdę zrozumiałam za pierwszym razem, nie trzeba mi tego jeszcze 40 razy przypominać, a słysząc kolejny raz te miłosne kocopoły, tylko się irytowałam. Ja nie mam nic przeciwko romansom, ale niech idzie za nimi jakaś treść, a nie tylko 400 stron wyznań złożonych z wyświechtanych frazesów.
October 17, 2025
Okay...this was absolutely beautiful.
One of the best retellings I've ever read I think. Even though sometimes the book was slow paced, and some stuff was chaotic I still really enjoyed this bittersweet tale.
One of the best retellings I've ever read I think. Even though sometimes the book was slow paced, and some stuff was chaotic I still really enjoyed this bittersweet tale.
September 21, 2023
What better way to cope with a heatwave than reading a book with plenty of snow? It certainly cooled me down!
The more I read of this book, the more spell-bound I became. This is a tragic love story woven in history with a bit of gothic thrown in there as well. At first I thought I would not like it because the plot moves so slowly but, as the mystery of the glamourous parties becomes unravelled, I felt as addicted as Forster.
Forster’s relationship is an addiction and I loved how he attempted to resist temptation. Yet, he is haunted by the woman he sees at these apparently random parties. The way that Kuzniar describes these gatherings are exotic and lavish. I loved the magic and fantasy elements that come through yet at the same time, Forster’s loneliness and isolation as an outsider becomes more prevalent at these events. It is one of these parties that changes Forster forever.
There is an increasing sense of urgency as the novel progresses. Solving a mystery, a curse and desiring the winter temperatures, Kuzniar’s re-telling of ‘Swan Lake’ was magical and haunting. I felt as invested in the story as Forster was with finding a solution, revelling in the flashbacks of the enchanting theatrical spectacle that is linked to Forster’s tale.
This read is perfect for snuggling up in the winter evenings, especially as the plot is so weather-dependent. The writing is beautiful and captivating; I was engrossed by the tragic fairy tale that saw romance mixed with magic. Kuzniar’s slow pace at the beginning just helped set the scene for a book that uses the passage of time as a countdown. Whilst life continues to move around him, it is like Forster is trapped and forever waiting.
I loved this magical tale and the gothic foundations. It was a great read and well-written. If you are after a winter’s tale, then look no further.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The more I read of this book, the more spell-bound I became. This is a tragic love story woven in history with a bit of gothic thrown in there as well. At first I thought I would not like it because the plot moves so slowly but, as the mystery of the glamourous parties becomes unravelled, I felt as addicted as Forster.
Forster’s relationship is an addiction and I loved how he attempted to resist temptation. Yet, he is haunted by the woman he sees at these apparently random parties. The way that Kuzniar describes these gatherings are exotic and lavish. I loved the magic and fantasy elements that come through yet at the same time, Forster’s loneliness and isolation as an outsider becomes more prevalent at these events. It is one of these parties that changes Forster forever.
There is an increasing sense of urgency as the novel progresses. Solving a mystery, a curse and desiring the winter temperatures, Kuzniar’s re-telling of ‘Swan Lake’ was magical and haunting. I felt as invested in the story as Forster was with finding a solution, revelling in the flashbacks of the enchanting theatrical spectacle that is linked to Forster’s tale.
This read is perfect for snuggling up in the winter evenings, especially as the plot is so weather-dependent. The writing is beautiful and captivating; I was engrossed by the tragic fairy tale that saw romance mixed with magic. Kuzniar’s slow pace at the beginning just helped set the scene for a book that uses the passage of time as a countdown. Whilst life continues to move around him, it is like Forster is trapped and forever waiting.
I loved this magical tale and the gothic foundations. It was a great read and well-written. If you are after a winter’s tale, then look no further.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2024
Sorry folks, if you liked this book, this review is not for you. I… have no words for how upset I am with this book? The pacing was so off… it started off slow and was 2 stars for the longest time, then picked up and was 3 stars, and then the ending plummeted it down to a 1.5 star. Honestly the 0.5 comes from the fact that I love the cover so much. Forster is such a pick me. Detta has like no personality? We should have left the insta-love trope behind in 2012. This book was the perfect example of purple prose (and not in a good way). And WTF was that ending? For what purpose? Why??? I dragged myself through this whole book for what?? And there’s no actual explanation? UGH! I’m big mad. Not for me.
January 3, 2025
Upon a frosted star for me was ok but also a little disappointing after reading Midnight in Evermore I was expecting something a little more magical.
It's is still a book worth reading if you like the author M.A. Kuznair I will definitely read more by this author 📚
It's is still a book worth reading if you like the author M.A. Kuznair I will definitely read more by this author 📚
March 30, 2025
3,5-3,75
Mam problem z oceną tej książki, ale nie chcę dawać jej 3, tylko jednak nieco podbić statystyki.
Bo z jednej strony jest bardzo ładnie napisana, ze świetnie wykreowanymi postaciami oraz silnymi relacjami pomiędzy nimi. Szczególnie przyjaźń Forstera, Rose i Malvina robi ciepło na sercu.
Z drugiej strony można jej zarzucić pewną powtarzalność wydarzeń w związku z klątwą Odetty. Miłośnikom bardziej żywej akcji może się nie spodobać, że przez długi czas niewiele się dzieje.
Mimo tego nie miałam problemu z powrotem do czytania i ostatnie 200 stron przeczytałam już na jednym posiedzeniu.
Myślę, że jest to prawdziwie baśniowa pozycja z nieśpiesznie opowiadaną historią. Nie każdemu podpasuje, ale jeśli ktoś ma ochotę właśnie na taki styl i tempo powieści, to ma szansę się spodobać.
Mam problem z oceną tej książki, ale nie chcę dawać jej 3, tylko jednak nieco podbić statystyki.
Bo z jednej strony jest bardzo ładnie napisana, ze świetnie wykreowanymi postaciami oraz silnymi relacjami pomiędzy nimi. Szczególnie przyjaźń Forstera, Rose i Malvina robi ciepło na sercu.
Z drugiej strony można jej zarzucić pewną powtarzalność wydarzeń w związku z klątwą Odetty. Miłośnikom bardziej żywej akcji może się nie spodobać, że przez długi czas niewiele się dzieje.
Mimo tego nie miałam problemu z powrotem do czytania i ostatnie 200 stron przeczytałam już na jednym posiedzeniu.
Myślę, że jest to prawdziwie baśniowa pozycja z nieśpiesznie opowiadaną historią. Nie każdemu podpasuje, ale jeśli ktoś ma ochotę właśnie na taki styl i tempo powieści, to ma szansę się spodobać.
August 18, 2023
— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Upon A Frosted Star
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): M. A. Kuzniar
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Historical Fantasy/Fairytale/Romance
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 21st September 2023
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝: 18th August 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★
”‘You promised that you would never fall in love with me.’ Detta’s gaze turned searching. Forster hesitated, uncertainty warring within him.
‘I’ll break your heart,’ she whispered.
‘It’s mine to risk,’ he told her.”
Two years ago I finished Midnight In Everwood and have been starved for more of Kuzniar’s writing and world building ever since. Midnight In Everwood was my favourite read of 2021, even leading me to name my Animal Crossing island Everwood! It had a huge impact on me and I fell in love with it, which made Upon A Frosted Star one of my most anticipated reads of the year.
Whilst Midnight In Everwood is mainly a book about female friendship, Upon A Frosted Star is a romance that could make the stars collide. I loved Kuzniar’s adult debt for a multitude of reasons and though this novel is different, the authors writing still captures that same magical feeling I felt when reading Everwood, the same feeling where I feel like there’s more to the world than mundanity and magic is everywhere if you know what to look for.
Upon A Frosted Star is a historical fantasy described as The Great Gatsby meets Swan Lake, which is so wonderfully fitting. Whilst Everwood is a retelling of The Nutcracker, Upon A Frosted Star captures the heart achingly beautiful spirit of the Swan Princess fairy tale. A mysterious ballerina who only appears at snowfall and the besotted artist who continues to paint and search for her. It’s so incredibly romantic I could weep!
”‘You are extraordinary, and I could no more regret meeting you than the sun could regret her shine.’”
As hoped and expected, this book is magical, wondrous, and full of lush and descriptive writing that makes me crave sugar and winter. I think that Upon A Frosted Star has less tangible magic in this story compared to Everwood, but I felt the fairy tale like quality was deeper, richer, and more ingrained within the story.
Upon A Frosted Star does tie in ever so slightly with Midnight In Everwood, Upon A Frosted Star is set mainly in the 1920s with flashbacks to 1912 whilst Midnight In Everwood begins in 1906. There’s also passing mentions of Marietta Stelle and Dr Drosselmeir.
Whilst Upon A Frosted Star is mainly set in and around London, there is a section mentioning Wales which got me ridiculously excited! There may not be magical worlds in this book, but sometimes the only magic we need is found at home.
I feel like this review has done nothing but compare Kuzniar’s adult debut with this newest release when Upon A Frosted Star does stand on its own merit. I simply adore everything about both novels. Upon A Frosted Star holds the excitable Great Gatsby-esque parties that seem imbued with true magic. It captures the gorgeously savage magic of the ballet. And most of all, it is a love story that leaves the real world feeling inadequate to my tender heart.
—Kayleigh🤍
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𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Upon A Frosted Star
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): M. A. Kuzniar
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Historical Fantasy/Fairytale/Romance
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 21st September 2023
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝: 18th August 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★
”‘You promised that you would never fall in love with me.’ Detta’s gaze turned searching. Forster hesitated, uncertainty warring within him.
‘I’ll break your heart,’ she whispered.
‘It’s mine to risk,’ he told her.”
Two years ago I finished Midnight In Everwood and have been starved for more of Kuzniar’s writing and world building ever since. Midnight In Everwood was my favourite read of 2021, even leading me to name my Animal Crossing island Everwood! It had a huge impact on me and I fell in love with it, which made Upon A Frosted Star one of my most anticipated reads of the year.
Whilst Midnight In Everwood is mainly a book about female friendship, Upon A Frosted Star is a romance that could make the stars collide. I loved Kuzniar’s adult debt for a multitude of reasons and though this novel is different, the authors writing still captures that same magical feeling I felt when reading Everwood, the same feeling where I feel like there’s more to the world than mundanity and magic is everywhere if you know what to look for.
Upon A Frosted Star is a historical fantasy described as The Great Gatsby meets Swan Lake, which is so wonderfully fitting. Whilst Everwood is a retelling of The Nutcracker, Upon A Frosted Star captures the heart achingly beautiful spirit of the Swan Princess fairy tale. A mysterious ballerina who only appears at snowfall and the besotted artist who continues to paint and search for her. It’s so incredibly romantic I could weep!
”‘You are extraordinary, and I could no more regret meeting you than the sun could regret her shine.’”
As hoped and expected, this book is magical, wondrous, and full of lush and descriptive writing that makes me crave sugar and winter. I think that Upon A Frosted Star has less tangible magic in this story compared to Everwood, but I felt the fairy tale like quality was deeper, richer, and more ingrained within the story.
Upon A Frosted Star does tie in ever so slightly with Midnight In Everwood, Upon A Frosted Star is set mainly in the 1920s with flashbacks to 1912 whilst Midnight In Everwood begins in 1906. There’s also passing mentions of Marietta Stelle and Dr Drosselmeir.
Whilst Upon A Frosted Star is mainly set in and around London, there is a section mentioning Wales which got me ridiculously excited! There may not be magical worlds in this book, but sometimes the only magic we need is found at home.
I feel like this review has done nothing but compare Kuzniar’s adult debut with this newest release when Upon A Frosted Star does stand on its own merit. I simply adore everything about both novels. Upon A Frosted Star holds the excitable Great Gatsby-esque parties that seem imbued with true magic. It captures the gorgeously savage magic of the ballet. And most of all, it is a love story that leaves the real world feeling inadequate to my tender heart.
—Kayleigh🤍
♡Booksta
♡Threads
January 24, 2024
I was looking forward to reading this book so much and it sadly left me feeling really flat.
It started off really well. We had a male pov, which I haven't come across loads in fantasy books, so that was refreshing and the initial set up with the magical, enchanting party that happens once a year was great, however the plot quickly became quite repetitive and dare I say, boring? This also may, in part, have been due to the very slow pacing.
Forster, unfortunately, did not strike me as a strong enough or interesting enough character to carry the story and he didn't have enough depth or development. For example, we knew he had been estranged from his family, but this only worked to explain his presence in London with Daisy and Marvin and didn't seem to actually influence his character in any real way.
Speaking of Daisy and Marvin, it was nice to have other characters to read about other than Forster, but they didn't particularly serve any true purpose in the story, since Forster didn't take them into his confidence until quite close to the end. Marvin was clearly designed to be a secondary antagonist, but didn't really come across as anything other than a jealous, spiteful individual, who got a very convenient redemption arc towards the end.
Sadly, there was nowhere near enough about Detta or Rothbart. Dettas' chapters, where she explores her history were reasonably interesting and entertaining, but I feel like both she and her chapters could have been fleshed out a bit more. In regards to Rothbart, he was nowhere near a strong enough villain for the story. I think the story could have really benefitted from some chapters from his pov and perhaps a stronger motive. He never felt terrifying, cruel or antagonistic enough and there never felt like there was enough suspense or danger around him.
My final big issue with this book was that there was never enough urgency surrounding Dettas' situation. Forster finds out very early on that he is on a time crunch, yet spends the majority of the book wasting time painting and staying nearby for Detta instead of looking for a solution. He just seems really blasé about the whole thing and as a result, there is no real sense of jeopardy, which leaves the story feeling bland and uninteresting.
The book was ok and I definitely liked Detta as a character, as well as the enchanting party settings she created. The writing of those scenes in particular was beautiful, visual and I could just feel the wonder and enchantment, but sadly, this didn't hit the mark for me and fell short of it's predecessor.
It started off really well. We had a male pov, which I haven't come across loads in fantasy books, so that was refreshing and the initial set up with the magical, enchanting party that happens once a year was great, however the plot quickly became quite repetitive and dare I say, boring? This also may, in part, have been due to the very slow pacing.
Forster, unfortunately, did not strike me as a strong enough or interesting enough character to carry the story and he didn't have enough depth or development. For example, we knew he had been estranged from his family, but this only worked to explain his presence in London with Daisy and Marvin and didn't seem to actually influence his character in any real way.
Speaking of Daisy and Marvin, it was nice to have other characters to read about other than Forster, but they didn't particularly serve any true purpose in the story, since Forster didn't take them into his confidence until quite close to the end. Marvin was clearly designed to be a secondary antagonist, but didn't really come across as anything other than a jealous, spiteful individual, who got a very convenient redemption arc towards the end.
Sadly, there was nowhere near enough about Detta or Rothbart. Dettas' chapters, where she explores her history were reasonably interesting and entertaining, but I feel like both she and her chapters could have been fleshed out a bit more. In regards to Rothbart, he was nowhere near a strong enough villain for the story. I think the story could have really benefitted from some chapters from his pov and perhaps a stronger motive. He never felt terrifying, cruel or antagonistic enough and there never felt like there was enough suspense or danger around him.
My final big issue with this book was that there was never enough urgency surrounding Dettas' situation. Forster finds out very early on that he is on a time crunch, yet spends the majority of the book wasting time painting and staying nearby for Detta instead of looking for a solution. He just seems really blasé about the whole thing and as a result, there is no real sense of jeopardy, which leaves the story feeling bland and uninteresting.
The book was ok and I definitely liked Detta as a character, as well as the enchanting party settings she created. The writing of those scenes in particular was beautiful, visual and I could just feel the wonder and enchantment, but sadly, this didn't hit the mark for me and fell short of it's predecessor.
March 14, 2024
Original thoughts:
Hope to come back with a coherent review but gorgeous? stunning?? scrumptious and dark and poetic??? 5 stars I think but so many thoughts ahhhhh
Final review:
It took me ages to finish reading this book, but I am so thankful I took the time to slow down. “Upon a Frosted Star” is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. I delighted in every delectable bite, every poetic line, every stunning setting. This book is full of color and pain, poetry and melancholy. It’s intimate and peaceful and lyrical. I may have only read less than 400 pages, but I attended every luxurious party thrown, danced in every snowstorm, and longingly waited for the return of the swan like I belonged between the pages. This story is such a perfect combination of “The Great Gatsby” and “Swan Lake” while still being it’s own magical story and I loved it so much. 5 stars hands down.
Hope to come back with a coherent review but gorgeous? stunning?? scrumptious and dark and poetic??? 5 stars I think but so many thoughts ahhhhh
Final review:
It took me ages to finish reading this book, but I am so thankful I took the time to slow down. “Upon a Frosted Star” is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. I delighted in every delectable bite, every poetic line, every stunning setting. This book is full of color and pain, poetry and melancholy. It’s intimate and peaceful and lyrical. I may have only read less than 400 pages, but I attended every luxurious party thrown, danced in every snowstorm, and longingly waited for the return of the swan like I belonged between the pages. This story is such a perfect combination of “The Great Gatsby” and “Swan Lake” while still being it’s own magical story and I loved it so much. 5 stars hands down.
December 9, 2023
A wonderful winter read which is perfect to read when it snows outside. The entire tale was full of mystery until the last pages and I enjoyed the flow of the story. I also feel that the spirit of the time and the great gatsby spirit was nicely captured. Loved it! However, I think the grand finale could have been a tad more dramatic :)
December 30, 2024
Like… it was fine? And then boring? And then interesting? And then boring again.. and then I just didn’t care 😂
November 6, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Wow - I haven't read this author's first book, but now I am so desperate to, because this was some of the most gorgeous, evocative writing that I have ever read. I thought it was incredibly magical, it's the perfect wintery book (I felt completely immersed in this frosty, sparkling version of the 1900s). I would love to attend one of these mysterious events, they sound incredible and even just the way the author describes food is stunning. Everything was so decadent, and I just loved this world.
The characters I have to say, were a little... lacklustre, in comparison. I did like them, but sometimes, particularly Forster, I struggled to feel any of his emotions; he felt quite subdued, and even more so when you place him next to the vibrant Detta, or even his friends Marvin and Rose, as you could easily feel the tension and pining between them.
I would absolutely recommend this however; it was compelling, immersive, and the stunning imagery alone makes this worth reading. I also really want to go and see a ballet performance now!
Wow - I haven't read this author's first book, but now I am so desperate to, because this was some of the most gorgeous, evocative writing that I have ever read. I thought it was incredibly magical, it's the perfect wintery book (I felt completely immersed in this frosty, sparkling version of the 1900s). I would love to attend one of these mysterious events, they sound incredible and even just the way the author describes food is stunning. Everything was so decadent, and I just loved this world.
The characters I have to say, were a little... lacklustre, in comparison. I did like them, but sometimes, particularly Forster, I struggled to feel any of his emotions; he felt quite subdued, and even more so when you place him next to the vibrant Detta, or even his friends Marvin and Rose, as you could easily feel the tension and pining between them.
I would absolutely recommend this however; it was compelling, immersive, and the stunning imagery alone makes this worth reading. I also really want to go and see a ballet performance now!
December 24, 2024
Ojej, z każdym rozdziałem działo się coraz słabiej.
February 12, 2025
Niestety, siłą książek tej autorki są piękne okładki i cudowne pomysły, jednak ich realizacje totalnie do mnie nie przemawiają. Klimat magiczny, tematyka zawsze trafia w sam środek mojego serca, ale sposób prowadzenia fabuły jest mocno nużący. Poza zakończeniem, które jest zaskakujące i rzadko na takie natrafiam, cała reszta nie wzbudziła we mnie żadnego zainteresowania. Być może wynikało to z faktu, że narracja była głównie z perspektywy męskiego bohatera, który okazał się mocno „bezpłciowy” i nie miał w ogóle charakteru. Samej Odetcie głos został oddany raptem kilka razy i nikogo nie zaskoczę, pisząc, że to te nieliczne rozdziały najbardziej mnie interesowały.
Ponoć jednak do trzech razy sztuka, więc może w końcu uda mi się pokochać jakąś książkę M. Kuzniar w całości, a nie jedynie samą jej koncepcję.
Ponoć jednak do trzech razy sztuka, więc może w końcu uda mi się pokochać jakąś książkę M. Kuzniar w całości, a nie jedynie samą jej koncepcję.
December 2, 2024
Pierwszy śnieg zawsze budzi mój zachwyt i nostalgię za dzieciństwem, ale mieszkańcy Londynu wyczekują go ze szczególną ekscytacją, bo przynosi on zaproszenia na pełen przepychu bal w tajemniczej rezydencji na klifie. Bal, o którym mówi się przez cały rok, aż do kolejnego oprószonego śniegiem bajkowego wydarzenia. Podobną fascynację budzi ich gospodyni, niezwykła i skryta Odetta Lakely. Nikt nie wie, że to miejsce, które ożywa raz w roku w blasku śniegu, kryje w sobie mroczne sekrety, samotność i strach.
Wraz z bohaterami powieści, niespełnionym artystą Forsterem i początkującym dziennikarzem Marvinem wkraczamy w erę pełną przepychu, dekadencji i artystycznych poszukiwań lat dwudziestych ubiegłego wieku. Spotkanie Forstera z Odettą podczas jednego z balów odmienia ich życie na zawsze. Ich uczucie odmierzane magią padającego śniegu jest niekończącą się tęsknotą, gdy ten topnieje.
Bieżące wydarzenia przeplatane historią Odetty pozwalają odkryć jej baletową przeszłość w Teatrze Zaklęć Rotbarta, w której mroczne oblicze sławy wysuwa się na pierwszy plan i jest jak trucizna zatruwająca pomału duszę.
Autorka tworzy świat wypełniony melancholijną baśniową aurą, dramatyzmem i gotycką grozą balansując pomiędzy rzeczywistością a magią. Z ogromnym wyczuciem oddaje ducha epoki, a wykorzystując symbolikę śniegu, zjawiska tak ulotnego i niepewnego ukazuje przemijalność i kruchość szczęścia w łapiącej za serce metaforze. Bo to tragiczna miłość Forstera i Odetty jest sercem tej powieści i rezonuje w sercu czytelnika długo po jej odłożeniu.
Autorka urzekła mnie pięknym, poetyckim stylem, wyczuwalną pasją do baletu i ogromną fantazją, z jaką kreśli pełne blichtru i emocji obrazy w tej nostalgicznej, urokliwej, ale i dramatycznej opowieści o magii, miłości i sztuce. W klimacie minionej epoki można się zatracić, podobnie jak w podążaniu za marzeniami. Wszystko ma niestety swoją cenę, którą przyjdzie nam zapłacić.
Ta cudowna słodko-gorzka opowieść o starciu dobra ze złem i miłości akceptującej nieuchronne ograniczenia losu pozwoliła mi zanurzyć się w atmosferze niesamowitości i oderwać od jesiennej rzeczywistości na kilka godzin. Zapewniam, że porwie i Was.
Wraz z bohaterami powieści, niespełnionym artystą Forsterem i początkującym dziennikarzem Marvinem wkraczamy w erę pełną przepychu, dekadencji i artystycznych poszukiwań lat dwudziestych ubiegłego wieku. Spotkanie Forstera z Odettą podczas jednego z balów odmienia ich życie na zawsze. Ich uczucie odmierzane magią padającego śniegu jest niekończącą się tęsknotą, gdy ten topnieje.
Bieżące wydarzenia przeplatane historią Odetty pozwalają odkryć jej baletową przeszłość w Teatrze Zaklęć Rotbarta, w której mroczne oblicze sławy wysuwa się na pierwszy plan i jest jak trucizna zatruwająca pomału duszę.
Autorka tworzy świat wypełniony melancholijną baśniową aurą, dramatyzmem i gotycką grozą balansując pomiędzy rzeczywistością a magią. Z ogromnym wyczuciem oddaje ducha epoki, a wykorzystując symbolikę śniegu, zjawiska tak ulotnego i niepewnego ukazuje przemijalność i kruchość szczęścia w łapiącej za serce metaforze. Bo to tragiczna miłość Forstera i Odetty jest sercem tej powieści i rezonuje w sercu czytelnika długo po jej odłożeniu.
Autorka urzekła mnie pięknym, poetyckim stylem, wyczuwalną pasją do baletu i ogromną fantazją, z jaką kreśli pełne blichtru i emocji obrazy w tej nostalgicznej, urokliwej, ale i dramatycznej opowieści o magii, miłości i sztuce. W klimacie minionej epoki można się zatracić, podobnie jak w podążaniu za marzeniami. Wszystko ma niestety swoją cenę, którą przyjdzie nam zapłacić.
Ta cudowna słodko-gorzka opowieść o starciu dobra ze złem i miłości akceptującej nieuchronne ograniczenia losu pozwoliła mi zanurzyć się w atmosferze niesamowitości i oderwać od jesiennej rzeczywistości na kilka godzin. Zapewniam, że porwie i Was.
February 9, 2025
„Niełatwo dźwigać ciężar smutku w samotności.”
𝚉𝙰𝙺𝙻𝙴𝚃𝙰 𝚆 𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙴𝙳𝚉𝙸𝙰 to książka, która była dla mnie praktycznie pewniakiem.
Dwa lata temu czytałam Północ w Everwood tej samej autorki i przepadłam dla tego, z jaką gracją manipuluje słowem pisanym, żeby uchwycić rzeczywistość przeplatającą się z magią. I stworzony przez nią realizm magiczny jest jednocześnie jak nie z tego świata, a jednocześnie odnosi się wrażenie, że przecież tak właśnie jest. Że teatr nas oczarowuje, a aktorzy to tylko marionetki w rękach „wielkich” ludzi z wizją.
Lata dwudzieste minionego wieku, Londyn. Wydawać by się mogło, że świat zupełnie ozdrowiał ze skutków Pierwszej Wojny, a ludzie zdążyli zapomnieć jak wiele strat przyniosła im czteroletnia krwawa jatka. Jednak Forster żyje ze skutkami wojny każdego dnia.
Forster, który przelewa piękno na płótno, który widzi świat jak każdy artysta, ale tylko wtedy, gdy jego muza się przebudza do życia.
Bale. Maski, szampan i piękne suknie. Zbytek, ekstrawagancja i całkowite porzucenie konwenansów, bo taka noc jak ta, zdarza się tylko raz w roku. Tylko raz w roku można pozostawić za sobą sztywne kajdany etykiety, żeby oddać się zabawie i wymianie lubieżnych spojrzeń.
Spojrzeń, które niekiedy potrafią odmienić życie, tak jak stało się to w przypadku Forstera. Srebrzyste oczy oczarowały i sprawiły, że znów zaczął tworzyć.
To historia piękna i katastrofalna. Historia, która pokazuje budującą moc miłości, a także rujnującą siłę pogoni za karierą.
Pokazuje, że nie zawsze to, czego byśmy sobie życzyli, jest dla nas czymś odpowiednim. Że stawianie na swoje szczęście nie jest egoizmem, a wrodzoną potrzebą człowieka.
Pokazuje, że miłość przychodzi w różnych momentach i formach, w całym spektrum różnych kształtów. Że każdy na nią zasługuje, ale nie każdy wie, jak ją do siebie dopuścić.
Książka, która sprawiła, że znowu mam dwanaście lat, słucham Czajkowskiego i tańczę w salonie. Coś magicznego.
𝚉𝙰𝙺𝙻𝙴𝚃𝙰 𝚆 𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙴𝙳𝚉𝙸𝙰 to książka, która była dla mnie praktycznie pewniakiem.
Dwa lata temu czytałam Północ w Everwood tej samej autorki i przepadłam dla tego, z jaką gracją manipuluje słowem pisanym, żeby uchwycić rzeczywistość przeplatającą się z magią. I stworzony przez nią realizm magiczny jest jednocześnie jak nie z tego świata, a jednocześnie odnosi się wrażenie, że przecież tak właśnie jest. Że teatr nas oczarowuje, a aktorzy to tylko marionetki w rękach „wielkich” ludzi z wizją.
Lata dwudzieste minionego wieku, Londyn. Wydawać by się mogło, że świat zupełnie ozdrowiał ze skutków Pierwszej Wojny, a ludzie zdążyli zapomnieć jak wiele strat przyniosła im czteroletnia krwawa jatka. Jednak Forster żyje ze skutkami wojny każdego dnia.
Forster, który przelewa piękno na płótno, który widzi świat jak każdy artysta, ale tylko wtedy, gdy jego muza się przebudza do życia.
Bale. Maski, szampan i piękne suknie. Zbytek, ekstrawagancja i całkowite porzucenie konwenansów, bo taka noc jak ta, zdarza się tylko raz w roku. Tylko raz w roku można pozostawić za sobą sztywne kajdany etykiety, żeby oddać się zabawie i wymianie lubieżnych spojrzeń.
Spojrzeń, które niekiedy potrafią odmienić życie, tak jak stało się to w przypadku Forstera. Srebrzyste oczy oczarowały i sprawiły, że znów zaczął tworzyć.
To historia piękna i katastrofalna. Historia, która pokazuje budującą moc miłości, a także rujnującą siłę pogoni za karierą.
Pokazuje, że nie zawsze to, czego byśmy sobie życzyli, jest dla nas czymś odpowiednim. Że stawianie na swoje szczęście nie jest egoizmem, a wrodzoną potrzebą człowieka.
Pokazuje, że miłość przychodzi w różnych momentach i formach, w całym spektrum różnych kształtów. Że każdy na nią zasługuje, ale nie każdy wie, jak ją do siebie dopuścić.
Książka, która sprawiła, że znowu mam dwanaście lat, słucham Czajkowskiego i tańczę w salonie. Coś magicznego.
September 22, 2023
I loved the idea of a book based around Swan Lake.
Just like the ballet there are star crossed lovers who have to defeat an evil magician. Kuzniar’s books are essentially fairy tales for adults. Just like all fairy tells, dark and bad things can and do happen to characters.
I was really rooting for the lovers, and it became a bit of a page turner towards the end. I’m looking forward to seeing what other readers thought but I was personally disappointed with the ending and found it a bit of a cop-out and very fast. I could think of a much better ending, that still fitted with the authors final philosophy but that would also have been more satisfying for those that love the ballet.
Other than the ending it was a very enjoyable read. Even the new epilogue that’s been added to the final version doesn’t satisfy.
Just like the ballet there are star crossed lovers who have to defeat an evil magician. Kuzniar’s books are essentially fairy tales for adults. Just like all fairy tells, dark and bad things can and do happen to characters.
I was really rooting for the lovers, and it became a bit of a page turner towards the end. I’m looking forward to seeing what other readers thought but I was personally disappointed with the ending and found it a bit of a cop-out and very fast. I could think of a much better ending, that still fitted with the authors final philosophy but that would also have been more satisfying for those that love the ballet.
Other than the ending it was a very enjoyable read. Even the new epilogue that’s been added to the final version doesn’t satisfy.
April 10, 2023
I wanted to love this - after all, what a beautiful cover - but I really didn't. The writing is on the verge of purple prose, clichéd and sadly unconvincing.
The characters were bland and two-dimensional and the plot really lagged. I skimmed through to the end but found even that hard going.
Looking forward to seeing the reactions of more readers. It may just be that this is not my genre of choice and many people go on to love it.
The characters were bland and two-dimensional and the plot really lagged. I skimmed through to the end but found even that hard going.
Looking forward to seeing the reactions of more readers. It may just be that this is not my genre of choice and many people go on to love it.
December 7, 2023
My Mum always told me that if I can’t say anything nice I should say nothing at all. Therefore, I will be saying nothing at all.
January 5, 2025
I have no idea why this book exists and how I really feel about reading it.
1. Beautiful writing with slow pacing and poor execution.
We spent so many pages reading about NOTHING. The book's premise, historical background and mysteries to solve should have been enough to deliver, especially when the stakes get higher with each chapter. But the reality is: characters spent days, weeks, months doing nothing about it even though we're told they're doing something. In the end it all boils down to them having picnics, eating desserts, organizing parties, eating more fancy desserts... Did I mention desserts? Like a whole lot of descriptions focused on desserts? No? So they keep eating desserts.
How am I supposed to believe that characters are in danger when the stakes don't feel high at all?
This book was too long filled with unnecessary chapters. I wasn't expecting an action-driven story but the events went in the opposite direction of what I was expecting of characters given the context of the story.
2. Rushed ending which brings no closure.
I read almost 400 pages and only the last 50 were focused on actually resolving the issue the main characters were supposed to be fighting with. Everything felt rushed and too convenient for my taste. Plus, the ending itself felt unsatisfying. I know how "Swan Lake" ends so I had a feeling the author may go down the same route but the way it was all executed felt lacking and rushed to the point of falling flat in a way.
3. Unconvincing romantic storyline.
I am not buying any of this crap the book is trying to sell me when it comes to the main romantic subplot. The author is trying to tell me the characters love each other unconditionally while their feelings read more like an obsession mixed with co-dependency. If it was supposed to feel like that, then congrats, author, you made it! But given the instalove-y nature of this subplot the ending looks so unbelievably unjust and maybe even stupid. Again, I know how romance is presented in "Swan Lake" - Siegfried spent less than a day with Odette and he still claims he loves her - but when I have to read 400 pages of that bs, my patience wears thin. It was beautifully written, but knowing how it all starts and how it's executed later, I found it hard to believe that their love is as genuine as the narrative was trying to claim. Call me cynical, but I believe that source material/inspirations driven from original works shouldn't be an excuse for poorly executed themes.
To be honest, I was more interested in the romantic subplot surrounding main character's friends! Theirs felt much more realistic and engaging. TOO BAD THE PLOT DOESN'T GIVE A SHIT ABOUT THEM NOR THEIR STORYLINE.
3. Side and secondary characters are almost non-existent.
Main character's friends appear only when they need to. Even though the narrative tries to tell us that those friends are like a family to the main character, the same narrative cuts them out from almost each and every important event in the book. I know that they couldn't be involved deeply into the mysteries and such but come on! WASTED POTENTIAL. In the end, they just appear as background characters at best. I don't know if it was supposed to add another tragic factor to main character's story but I am not buying that.
4. The main villain is a letdown.
Can't say more due to spoilers but let me just say this - WHAT WAS THE POINT?
5. Character arcs? What character arcs?
If you think main character's backstory plays any role, please be informed that it doesn't mean shit and no significant development happens. If I was cruel I'd say that main character's personality revolved solely around his love interest (or more like him being obsessed with her). Kinda refreshing to have a male (not female!) lead with no personality outside his love story, right RIGHT? *cries* I liked him, I really did, but he was like a freaking Feyre from ACOTAR (and they even shared the same hobby fml). I don't know, maybe it was the point of making him so obsessed and focused on everything and anything that wasn't connected with real life. Which makes sense in a way but AGAIN - the execution wasn't seamless so instead of thinking "oh how beautifully tragic" I keep thinking "that's utterly stupid".
His love interest though had a more solid character-building journey but it was all presented in flashback so I had no real-time/current timeline sense of her changing, if that makes sense.
There's so much I didn't like about this book but it was so beautifully written that I can't even stay mad. In some aspects, I actually liked it? I must admit that "Midnight in Everwood" was MUCH better plot-wise, but there's something in "Upon a Frosted Star" that didn't let me dnf it.
Here, we get intriguing mysteries, interesting backstories, but the execution fails at some point. I just think that some elements could have been explored more, plot could have been focused on more important details and events, instead of giving us an Arcadia-wannabe scenarios with a half-cooked romantic plotline.
I'm giving 3/5 stars for:
- beautiful and atmospheric writing
- mystery aspects mixed with magic
- character backstories
- historical background
1. Beautiful writing with slow pacing and poor execution.
We spent so many pages reading about NOTHING. The book's premise, historical background and mysteries to solve should have been enough to deliver, especially when the stakes get higher with each chapter. But the reality is: characters spent days, weeks, months doing nothing about it even though we're told they're doing something. In the end it all boils down to them having picnics, eating desserts, organizing parties, eating more fancy desserts... Did I mention desserts? Like a whole lot of descriptions focused on desserts? No? So they keep eating desserts.
How am I supposed to believe that characters are in danger when the stakes don't feel high at all?
This book was too long filled with unnecessary chapters. I wasn't expecting an action-driven story but the events went in the opposite direction of what I was expecting of characters given the context of the story.
2. Rushed ending which brings no closure.
I read almost 400 pages and only the last 50 were focused on actually resolving the issue the main characters were supposed to be fighting with. Everything felt rushed and too convenient for my taste. Plus, the ending itself felt unsatisfying. I know how "Swan Lake" ends so I had a feeling the author may go down the same route but the way it was all executed felt lacking and rushed to the point of falling flat in a way.
3. Unconvincing romantic storyline.
I am not buying any of this crap the book is trying to sell me when it comes to the main romantic subplot. The author is trying to tell me the characters love each other unconditionally while their feelings read more like an obsession mixed with co-dependency. If it was supposed to feel like that, then congrats, author, you made it! But given the instalove-y nature of this subplot the ending looks so unbelievably unjust and maybe even stupid. Again, I know how romance is presented in "Swan Lake" - Siegfried spent less than a day with Odette and he still claims he loves her - but when I have to read 400 pages of that bs, my patience wears thin. It was beautifully written, but knowing how it all starts and how it's executed later, I found it hard to believe that their love is as genuine as the narrative was trying to claim. Call me cynical, but I believe that source material/inspirations driven from original works shouldn't be an excuse for poorly executed themes.
To be honest, I was more interested in the romantic subplot surrounding main character's friends! Theirs felt much more realistic and engaging. TOO BAD THE PLOT DOESN'T GIVE A SHIT ABOUT THEM NOR THEIR STORYLINE.
3. Side and secondary characters are almost non-existent.
Main character's friends appear only when they need to. Even though the narrative tries to tell us that those friends are like a family to the main character, the same narrative cuts them out from almost each and every important event in the book. I know that they couldn't be involved deeply into the mysteries and such but come on! WASTED POTENTIAL. In the end, they just appear as background characters at best. I don't know if it was supposed to add another tragic factor to main character's story but I am not buying that.
4. The main villain is a letdown.
Can't say more due to spoilers but let me just say this - WHAT WAS THE POINT?
5. Character arcs? What character arcs?
If you think main character's backstory plays any role, please be informed that it doesn't mean shit and no significant development happens. If I was cruel I'd say that main character's personality revolved solely around his love interest (or more like him being obsessed with her). Kinda refreshing to have a male (not female!) lead with no personality outside his love story, right RIGHT? *cries* I liked him, I really did, but he was like a freaking Feyre from ACOTAR (and they even shared the same hobby fml). I don't know, maybe it was the point of making him so obsessed and focused on everything and anything that wasn't connected with real life. Which makes sense in a way but AGAIN - the execution wasn't seamless so instead of thinking "oh how beautifully tragic" I keep thinking "that's utterly stupid".
His love interest though had a more solid character-building journey but it was all presented in flashback so I had no real-time/current timeline sense of her changing, if that makes sense.
There's so much I didn't like about this book but it was so beautifully written that I can't even stay mad. In some aspects, I actually liked it? I must admit that "Midnight in Everwood" was MUCH better plot-wise, but there's something in "Upon a Frosted Star" that didn't let me dnf it.
Here, we get intriguing mysteries, interesting backstories, but the execution fails at some point. I just think that some elements could have been explored more, plot could have been focused on more important details and events, instead of giving us an Arcadia-wannabe scenarios with a half-cooked romantic plotline.
I'm giving 3/5 stars for:
- beautiful and atmospheric writing
- mystery aspects mixed with magic
- character backstories
- historical background
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