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The Borealis Queen
They burned her tribe. Enslaved her.
And made one mistake they never they let her live.
In the savage Ice Age, eight-year-old Nin watches her world disappear in fire and blood. Her people—slaughtered. Her freedom—taken. She is dragged into a life where survival means silence.
But something unseen walks beside her.
A Smilodon stalks the edges of her life—a creature of shadow and dagger fangs, feared by all, yet never turning on her. No one knows why it follows her. Not even Nin.
When the wolves come, they do not tear her apart. They circle her. Run with her. Answer her call beneath the northern lights. How a lone human came to run with a dire wolf pack is a question whispered in fear long before it is understood.
Years pass. The girl who was meant to break does not. Legends begin where no one expects them to—carved into ice, blood, and memory. To her captors, she is still prey. To the wild, she is something else entirely.
Raw. Brutal. Unforgettable.
The Borealis Queen is a story of survival in humanity’s darkest age—where power is earned, bonds defy reason, and hunter and hunted trade places in the snow.
Perfect for fans of Clan of the Cave Bear and Apocalypto.
🏆 2025 Readers' Favorite Award Winner
🏆 Literary Titan Gold Book Award Winner
⭐ Kirkus "Our GET IT"
And made one mistake they never they let her live.
In the savage Ice Age, eight-year-old Nin watches her world disappear in fire and blood. Her people—slaughtered. Her freedom—taken. She is dragged into a life where survival means silence.
But something unseen walks beside her.
A Smilodon stalks the edges of her life—a creature of shadow and dagger fangs, feared by all, yet never turning on her. No one knows why it follows her. Not even Nin.
When the wolves come, they do not tear her apart. They circle her. Run with her. Answer her call beneath the northern lights. How a lone human came to run with a dire wolf pack is a question whispered in fear long before it is understood.
Years pass. The girl who was meant to break does not. Legends begin where no one expects them to—carved into ice, blood, and memory. To her captors, she is still prey. To the wild, she is something else entirely.
Raw. Brutal. Unforgettable.
The Borealis Queen is a story of survival in humanity’s darkest age—where power is earned, bonds defy reason, and hunter and hunted trade places in the snow.
Perfect for fans of Clan of the Cave Bear and Apocalypto.
🏆 2025 Readers' Favorite Award Winner
🏆 Literary Titan Gold Book Award Winner
⭐ Kirkus "Our GET IT"
397 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 18, 2025
91 people are currently reading
1452 people want to read
About the author
Henry Guard
2 books16 followersHenry Guard is an entrepreneur and devoted father of two, who found joy in weaving bedtime tales for his children. As an imaginative storyteller, he often crafted stories on the spot, but to maintain consistency even when sleep loomed, he developed a habit of narrating his stories in episodes. One of these tales grew into the enchanting saga known as "The Borealis Queen", a journey that began as a bedtime story and evolved into a rich, episodic adventure. Now, he shares his stories with the world and looks forward to bringing more of them to life in future books.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 21, 2025
Strong and beautiful story
This story got to hold my attention for the entire time I’d sit to read. The writing is beautiful, and the world created by the author is full of mystery. The main character is strong and beautiful. The story has action, emotion, and a sense of purpose. It talks about survival, courage, and overcoming challenges even when nobody believes you. The read felt fresh, and the pacing kept me hooked. Highly recommended!
This story got to hold my attention for the entire time I’d sit to read. The writing is beautiful, and the world created by the author is full of mystery. The main character is strong and beautiful. The story has action, emotion, and a sense of purpose. It talks about survival, courage, and overcoming challenges even when nobody believes you. The read felt fresh, and the pacing kept me hooked. Highly recommended!
February 14, 2025
Perfect for anyone looking for a great adventure. A unique story in a unique setting, the Borealis Queen is well written with a main character that is easy to root for. Plus, there's a glossary, which is always a great bonus! The author uses descriptive language to place the reader into a story of action, forged bonds, and perseverance, with a light hint of romance. Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2025
The book is gripping, fresh and completely original. The protagonist doesn’t rely on fate or magic, just her instincts, skill, and unbreakable will. I give it a 4.5/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2025
The Borealis Queen by Henry Guard is an imaginative adventure set in a speculative Ice Age world, centered around Nin, a resilient young woman marked by a mysterious prophecy. Struggling against oppressive foes and navigating harsh landscapes, Nin embarks on a perilous journey that intertwines survival, destiny, and the forging of unexpected bonds.
I found myself captivated by Guard's storytelling. His vivid descriptions, especially of Nin’s harrowing encounters with Gore, are so intense and emotional they kept me flipping pages, heart in throat. The opening scene in Chapter 1, where Nin is dragged through the snow by her hair, is brutal but powerfully written. It immediately connects readers with Nin’s defiant spirit despite her desperate circumstances.
One thing that stood out to me was the portrayal of relationships and unexpected alliances. Nin's bond with Shadow, the fearsome Dagger Mouth Demon, genuinely moved me. The nuanced depiction of their connection—beginning with Nin’s compassionate rescue of Shadow as a pup and later reciprocated through his fierce loyalty—highlighted themes of empathy and interdependence. The moment Shadow saves Nin from Ursang was both thrilling and heartwarming, encapsulating the book's underlying message about the power of kindness even amid brutality.
While I admired the strong character development, some sub-stories, like the detailed recounting of tribal rituals or backstory expositions, momentarily pulled me away from the main plot. Still, these slower sections offered rich cultural insights, and Guard’s enthusiasm for his created world shone through clearly.
The Borealis Queen is a compelling read with memorable characters and gripping emotional intensity. Guard does a fantastic job creating a world that's both fantastical and believably harsh, making the stakes feel real and the victories genuinely rewarding. I’d recommend this book to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy with a gritty edge—particularly those who appreciate strong, complex heroines and intricate relationships set against vivid, unforgiving landscapes.
I found myself captivated by Guard's storytelling. His vivid descriptions, especially of Nin’s harrowing encounters with Gore, are so intense and emotional they kept me flipping pages, heart in throat. The opening scene in Chapter 1, where Nin is dragged through the snow by her hair, is brutal but powerfully written. It immediately connects readers with Nin’s defiant spirit despite her desperate circumstances.
One thing that stood out to me was the portrayal of relationships and unexpected alliances. Nin's bond with Shadow, the fearsome Dagger Mouth Demon, genuinely moved me. The nuanced depiction of their connection—beginning with Nin’s compassionate rescue of Shadow as a pup and later reciprocated through his fierce loyalty—highlighted themes of empathy and interdependence. The moment Shadow saves Nin from Ursang was both thrilling and heartwarming, encapsulating the book's underlying message about the power of kindness even amid brutality.
While I admired the strong character development, some sub-stories, like the detailed recounting of tribal rituals or backstory expositions, momentarily pulled me away from the main plot. Still, these slower sections offered rich cultural insights, and Guard’s enthusiasm for his created world shone through clearly.
The Borealis Queen is a compelling read with memorable characters and gripping emotional intensity. Guard does a fantastic job creating a world that's both fantastical and believably harsh, making the stakes feel real and the victories genuinely rewarding. I’d recommend this book to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy with a gritty edge—particularly those who appreciate strong, complex heroines and intricate relationships set against vivid, unforgiving landscapes.
July 11, 2025
Okay, so I wasn’t sure what I was getting into with The Borealis Queen, but this book surprised me in many ways. It's dark, intense, and emotionally heavy at times, but I honestly couldn’t put it down once it got going.
The story kicks off with a queen being overthrown and immediately throws you into this messed-up world of backstabbing nobles, weird magic, and underground resistance. But it’s not just action and politics—what really hit me were the characters. Kaija and Erik are both so broken and real. Their relationship is one of those where you keep thinking, “This is never going to work,” and yet somehow, they keep showing up for each other. Not in a romantic, fairy-tale way—more like two people barely surviving and finding something like trust along the way. It felt raw and human.
The magic system is really different, too. It’s not flashy spells or anything—it’s tied to this whole aura thing that literally drains your life if you use it too much. That made every magical moment feel risky and intense, which I loved. Plus, the whole world feels so gritty and cold—kind of like Eastern Europe meets dystopian steampunk. Super atmospheric.
I won’t lie—this book is pretty brutal in parts. There’s violence, betrayal, trauma... It’s definitely not a light read. But it all felt like it meant something. Nothing in this story is easy, and that made me care about it more.
If you're looking for a fantasy that breaks the mold—less swords-and-dragons, more emotional gut punches and messy people trying to survive—you’ll probably really like this one. I did. It’s stuck with me in a way not many books do.
The story kicks off with a queen being overthrown and immediately throws you into this messed-up world of backstabbing nobles, weird magic, and underground resistance. But it’s not just action and politics—what really hit me were the characters. Kaija and Erik are both so broken and real. Their relationship is one of those where you keep thinking, “This is never going to work,” and yet somehow, they keep showing up for each other. Not in a romantic, fairy-tale way—more like two people barely surviving and finding something like trust along the way. It felt raw and human.
The magic system is really different, too. It’s not flashy spells or anything—it’s tied to this whole aura thing that literally drains your life if you use it too much. That made every magical moment feel risky and intense, which I loved. Plus, the whole world feels so gritty and cold—kind of like Eastern Europe meets dystopian steampunk. Super atmospheric.
I won’t lie—this book is pretty brutal in parts. There’s violence, betrayal, trauma... It’s definitely not a light read. But it all felt like it meant something. Nothing in this story is easy, and that made me care about it more.
If you're looking for a fantasy that breaks the mold—less swords-and-dragons, more emotional gut punches and messy people trying to survive—you’ll probably really like this one. I did. It’s stuck with me in a way not many books do.
December 9, 2025
The Borealis Queen is a breathtaking fusion of primal survival, ancient myth, and raw emotional power. Henry Guard crafts a world both savage and beautiful, where every blizzard, beast, and betrayal feels tangible enough to taste. The story of Nin, the last of her people, unfolds with cinematic clarity, immersing readers in a frozen prehistoric landscape where instinct is everything and mercy is rare. Guard’s ability to blend atmospheric worldbuilding with heart-pounding action makes the novel feel both epic and intimate. Nin’s journey is not just about survival; it’s about reclaiming identity, embracing transformation, and rising from the edge of extinction as something formidable and unforgettable.
What elevates this book beyond most survival fantasies is its emotional depth and character-driven focus. Nin’s bond with the Smilodon and dire wolves is written with breathtaking tenderness and intensity, grounding the brutality of her world with moments of fierce loyalty and unexpected grace. Guard masterfully weaves themes of resilience, belonging, and the wild strength that emerges when a person has nothing left to lose. The Borealis Queen stands tall as a powerful, elemental saga, one that grips your heart, fuels your imagination, and reminds you that legends aren’t born… they’re carved from the cold. A must-read for fans of survival epics and richly crafted prehistoric fantasy.
What elevates this book beyond most survival fantasies is its emotional depth and character-driven focus. Nin’s bond with the Smilodon and dire wolves is written with breathtaking tenderness and intensity, grounding the brutality of her world with moments of fierce loyalty and unexpected grace. Guard masterfully weaves themes of resilience, belonging, and the wild strength that emerges when a person has nothing left to lose. The Borealis Queen stands tall as a powerful, elemental saga, one that grips your heart, fuels your imagination, and reminds you that legends aren’t born… they’re carved from the cold. A must-read for fans of survival epics and richly crafted prehistoric fantasy.
August 31, 2025
The Borealis Queen is a delightful read that exceeded my expectations. It follows Nin's transformation into the Borealis Queen.
Yes, there are some possible plot holes that raise my eyebrows and knock half a star for me, I still round it up. Although they significantly distracted me, fortunately, the rest of the book still makes up for them. For example, why would two prisoners have access to her weapon before her battle when the enemies know well what she is capable of? The other prisoner, access to her scout? The timeline of the princess's capture and how her tribe has sort of recovered within a short period of time. The powerful and conveniently forgotten sling through some moments like Artko's distraction and final square off?
Besides that, it's a very well-written and enjoyable book. When an enemy is conquered, others arise, keeping the readers on their toes. Although many prominent characters are introduced along the way, they each hold their own and are distinctive, leaving their own marks in the story. The story is fast-paced and very imaginative. The battles are great, vivid, and I feel like I'm there with them.
It's a very enjoyable read and worth every minute.
Yes, there are some possible plot holes that raise my eyebrows and knock half a star for me, I still round it up. Although they significantly distracted me, fortunately, the rest of the book still makes up for them. For example, why would two prisoners have access to her weapon before her battle when the enemies know well what she is capable of? The other prisoner, access to her scout? The timeline of the princess's capture and how her tribe has sort of recovered within a short period of time. The powerful and conveniently forgotten sling through some moments like Artko's distraction and final square off?
Besides that, it's a very well-written and enjoyable book. When an enemy is conquered, others arise, keeping the readers on their toes. Although many prominent characters are introduced along the way, they each hold their own and are distinctive, leaving their own marks in the story. The story is fast-paced and very imaginative. The battles are great, vivid, and I feel like I'm there with them.
It's a very enjoyable read and worth every minute.
October 10, 2025
First off, let me say that the book has a lot of wolves and a very cool sabertooth tiger. The book is worth reading just for those two factors. (Also, another particularly cute animal, but I won’t spoil that.)
But there is more: It has Conan the Barbarian vibes, but with a female protagonist that isn’t overpowered, so if forced to think through her next steps in a realistic manner, with actions that fit the ice-age setting.
The author clearly has a good historical understanding of the last ice age in northern Eurasia, and has gone to great lengths to try to create a world that is historically accurate (at least from what we know of the ice age), with an attempted reconstruction of its language, food and technology, and tribal system. The action is great, but, for me (a history buff), the setting itself was the best part.
There are a lot of characters and animals. Do check out the glossary at the end.
But there is more: It has Conan the Barbarian vibes, but with a female protagonist that isn’t overpowered, so if forced to think through her next steps in a realistic manner, with actions that fit the ice-age setting.
The author clearly has a good historical understanding of the last ice age in northern Eurasia, and has gone to great lengths to try to create a world that is historically accurate (at least from what we know of the ice age), with an attempted reconstruction of its language, food and technology, and tribal system. The action is great, but, for me (a history buff), the setting itself was the best part.
There are a lot of characters and animals. Do check out the glossary at the end.
November 25, 2025
The Borealis Queen is a fierce, atmospheric survival fantasy that feels both mythic and visceral. Henry Guard drops readers into a breathtaking Ice Age world where every page bristles with danger towering beasts, unforgiving blizzards, and the brutal calculus of survival. At the center of it all is Nin, a heroine whose transformation from captive to living legend is delivered with cinematic clarity and emotional force.
Guard’s worldbuilding is bold and tactile you feel the crunch of snow, the hot breath of a Smilodon, the tension of clan warfare and yet the heart of the novel beats with something quieter: loyalty, instinct, and the fragile bonds that emerge in impossible conditions. The pacing is relentless, the action precise, and the emotional arcs surprisingly intimate.
Epic in scope yet deeply character-driven, The Borealis Queen stands out as a survival saga with teeth: brutal, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Guard’s worldbuilding is bold and tactile you feel the crunch of snow, the hot breath of a Smilodon, the tension of clan warfare and yet the heart of the novel beats with something quieter: loyalty, instinct, and the fragile bonds that emerge in impossible conditions. The pacing is relentless, the action precise, and the emotional arcs surprisingly intimate.
Epic in scope yet deeply character-driven, The Borealis Queen stands out as a survival saga with teeth: brutal, beautiful, and unforgettable.
December 12, 2025
The Borealis Queen by Henry Guard is a gripping, cinematic survival fantasy that immerses readers in a prehistoric world of ice, beasts, and betrayal. Following Nin, the last of her people, readers experience a relentless journey across frozen wilds, where endurance becomes transformation.
Armed only with a sling, her instincts, and the loyalty of a saber-toothed Smilodon and a pack of dire wolves, Nin navigates blizzards, enemies, and deadly beasts, growing from a hunted survivor into a legendary force of resilience and courage.
Henry Guard masterfully blends visceral action, elemental worldbuilding, and deep emotional stakes to craft a heroine whose journey resonates with fans of The Witcher, Clan of the Cave Bear, and Apocalypto. The Borealis Queen is a non-stop, character-driven adventure with cinematic scope, perfect for readers seeking epic survival fantasy with heart and grit.
Armed only with a sling, her instincts, and the loyalty of a saber-toothed Smilodon and a pack of dire wolves, Nin navigates blizzards, enemies, and deadly beasts, growing from a hunted survivor into a legendary force of resilience and courage.
Henry Guard masterfully blends visceral action, elemental worldbuilding, and deep emotional stakes to craft a heroine whose journey resonates with fans of The Witcher, Clan of the Cave Bear, and Apocalypto. The Borealis Queen is a non-stop, character-driven adventure with cinematic scope, perfect for readers seeking epic survival fantasy with heart and grit.
July 4, 2025
Legend Amid Snow and Sabers
Shaped by blizzards, beasts, and blood. Nin doesn’t flinch, flirt, or follow. Scarred and hunted, the Borealis Queen’s feral, fierce heroine is the last ember of her people’s legacy.
As she rises from prey to predator in a frozen landscape where megafauna and mysticism offer some of the most emotionally charged bonds I’ve read in years, her animal companions will melt your heart and lift your spirits.
The prose cuts deep: sharp, economical, and at times poetic. You’ll feel the snow crunch, the fur bristle, and the ache of survival etched into every scar Nin earns.
This frostbitten, bloodstained, brutal, beautiful fantasy is not for the faint-hearted, but if you crave worlds that feel old as bone and heroines who walk barefoot through danger, The Borealis Queen will pull you right in. I could not put it down!
Shaped by blizzards, beasts, and blood. Nin doesn’t flinch, flirt, or follow. Scarred and hunted, the Borealis Queen’s feral, fierce heroine is the last ember of her people’s legacy.
As she rises from prey to predator in a frozen landscape where megafauna and mysticism offer some of the most emotionally charged bonds I’ve read in years, her animal companions will melt your heart and lift your spirits.
The prose cuts deep: sharp, economical, and at times poetic. You’ll feel the snow crunch, the fur bristle, and the ache of survival etched into every scar Nin earns.
This frostbitten, bloodstained, brutal, beautiful fantasy is not for the faint-hearted, but if you crave worlds that feel old as bone and heroines who walk barefoot through danger, The Borealis Queen will pull you right in. I could not put it down!
Read
October 15, 2025The Borealis Queen is a raw, cinematic survival epic that grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Henry Guard’s storytelling is both visceral and poetic, painting an Ice Age world that feels as real as frostbite. Nin’s transformation from a broken child into a ruthless warrior is breathtaking to witness, and her bond with the saber-toothed cat Shadow gives the story a fierce emotional core. The battles are brutal, the landscapes vivid, and the quiet moments of connection hit just as hard as the violence. This isn’t just a story about survival; it’s about reclaiming power and identity in a world determined to erase both. A haunting, exhilarating read that lingers long after the last page.
October 2, 2025
Enter the prehistoric world of fantasy through the eyes of Nin, a tough yet compassionate and wise warrior-leader on the brink of womanhood. Terrifying mammoths, saber-toothed bears and wolves, and mysterious shadow beings that constantly threaten fragile human existence, are nothing compared to the harm people inflict upon themselves in this untamed wilderness. Nin forges unbreakable bonds between species to unite against ruthless, power-driven humans, hoping to create a new way of life for all. A beautifully written story with humor, depth, emotional intelligence, soaring joy, and bittersweet sorrow, this is a worthy read for fantasy lovers everywhere.
November 4, 2025
A fascinating tale straight out of the ice age.
In the frozen prehistoric wastes, Nin thrives after finally escaping her captors. She lives amongst the beasts as one of them, having formed a strong connection to a dire wolf pup, who grows into a powerful ally in her fight against a new threat – a tribe leader determined to rule all the people by terror, and to take her down. She becomes a leader of the people, the Borealis Queen, as she hones her fighting skills and strategies for defeating him. A recommended read.
In the frozen prehistoric wastes, Nin thrives after finally escaping her captors. She lives amongst the beasts as one of them, having formed a strong connection to a dire wolf pup, who grows into a powerful ally in her fight against a new threat – a tribe leader determined to rule all the people by terror, and to take her down. She becomes a leader of the people, the Borealis Queen, as she hones her fighting skills and strategies for defeating him. A recommended read.
February 20, 2025
Book Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book grabs your attention from the very first chapter! The vivid descriptions of the landscapes make you feel like you’re in another world. The story is full of adventure, and the main character is strong and inspiring. I loved how she connects with animals and overcomes every challenge. If you love strong characters, immersive worlds, and thrilling journeys, this book is a must-read!
This book grabs your attention from the very first chapter! The vivid descriptions of the landscapes make you feel like you’re in another world. The story is full of adventure, and the main character is strong and inspiring. I loved how she connects with animals and overcomes every challenge. If you love strong characters, immersive worlds, and thrilling journeys, this book is a must-read!
May 15, 2025
A Gripping Survival Fantasy
The writing in this book is very cinematic. I could feel the snow, hear the growl, sense the danger in every chapter. It’s not just about survival it’s about becoming something stronger, something unforgettable. If you love elemental world building and fantasy that feel like myth, this is a must read.
The writing in this book is very cinematic. I could feel the snow, hear the growl, sense the danger in every chapter. It’s not just about survival it’s about becoming something stronger, something unforgettable. If you love elemental world building and fantasy that feel like myth, this is a must read.
September 1, 2025
Beautifully written wilderness fantasy adventure
This is the story of a strong, female protagonist named Nin who finds her place as queen after losing everything to evil warriors. She is armed with only a slingshot but guarded by the wilderness beasts she has befriended. Nin faces danger at every turn in an icy landscape. It is a story of survival amidst deep betrayal.
This is the story of a strong, female protagonist named Nin who finds her place as queen after losing everything to evil warriors. She is armed with only a slingshot but guarded by the wilderness beasts she has befriended. Nin faces danger at every turn in an icy landscape. It is a story of survival amidst deep betrayal.
September 4, 2025
great read of epic lore
I took me a bit of time to get into this book as it's written as if it were an ancient legend, such as the "Iliad" or the "Odyssey." Once I realized that and started to read it as epic poetry, it made far more sense and the pacing flowed more naturally.
If stories like "the Epic of Gilgamesh" don't appeal to you, you may want to skip this novel. However, if you can put yourself in the right frame of mind, this is a truly worthwhile read.
I took me a bit of time to get into this book as it's written as if it were an ancient legend, such as the "Iliad" or the "Odyssey." Once I realized that and started to read it as epic poetry, it made far more sense and the pacing flowed more naturally.
If stories like "the Epic of Gilgamesh" don't appeal to you, you may want to skip this novel. However, if you can put yourself in the right frame of mind, this is a truly worthwhile read.
September 5, 2025
Great Concept, Missing Depth
The Borealis Queen has strong ideas icy survival, dire wolves, and a tough heroine but the story feels mechanical and flat. The prose hits all the right beats without real depth, making it seem more assembled than lived. Creative premise, but missing the heart to truly connect.
The Borealis Queen has strong ideas icy survival, dire wolves, and a tough heroine but the story feels mechanical and flat. The prose hits all the right beats without real depth, making it seem more assembled than lived. Creative premise, but missing the heart to truly connect.
December 22, 2025
I wanted so hard to love this book, but it just feels like there's too much detail for me to get into it. I know some people really enjoy that aspect, but it just wasn't for me.
I did rate up a star because I do like the IDEA of this book.
I did rate up a star because I do like the IDEA of this book.
July 2, 2025
DNF. I found the writing overblown, making for a tedious read. I gave up at 12%.
September 8, 2025
Very different fantasy! Wonderful worlds and epic descriptions make for an interesting read!
November 27, 2025
DNF. It wasn’t for me. Just couldn’t get engaged with it.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews