Dark Frost: Mythos Academy, Book 3

Mythos Academy #3

by Jennifer Estep

A young warrior-in-training faces high school, romance, and a host of magical foes in the New York Times bestselling author’s YA urban fantasy novel.

I've seen so many freaky things since I started attending Mythos Academy last fall. I know I'm supposed to be a fearless warrior, but most of the time, I feel like I'm just waiting for the next Bad, Bad Thing to happen. Like someone trying to kill me—again.

Everyone at Mythos Academy knows me as Gwen Frost, the Oracle girl who uses her psychometry magic to find lost objects—and who just may be dating Logan Quinn, the hottest guy in school. But I'm also the girl the Reapers of Chaos want dead. The Reapers are the same bad guys who murdered my mom. It turns out she hid a powerful artifact from them before she died. They think I know where it is, but this is one thing I can't use my magic to find. All I do know is that the Reapers are coming for me—and I'm in for the fight of my life.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mythology, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Romance, Magic

Audible Audio

First published May 29, 2012

About the author

Jennifer Estep is a New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author who prowls the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.

Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.

In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.

For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....

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Happy reading, everyone! 😎

Reviews

[Darlalala · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY!!! Gwen's wearing the necklace LOGAN had given her! And who's Loki's champion?? hmm..
EDIT: So this book deserves 4.5 stars but I round it up anyway. Gwen, still doesn't have the super ability to defend herself She's getting used to be punched on the face by Loki's champion, but at least she's starting to understand her real power, what she can do with her touch magic.

Dark frost is tricky! I swear at some point I was so sure that this character is Loki's champion but eventually certain events happen and I'd change my mind again! The puzzles keep on coming and I like that the answers don't come quick. Although I kind of guessed some of them..like the deal with Nickamedes and the location of the Dagger ;)
However, I still don't like the whole gods-know-what'll-happen-but-they-won't-give-you-a-freakng-clue. At least in PJO series, there are prophecies to guide them :))
Anyway, this book is good and a quick read for me.

[Mizuki · Rating 2 out of 5]

Now we have the third book, the old problems we had seen in the previous two books are still there, let's see:

(1) Gwen keeps labeling people (even her friends) as ' band geek' and other stereotypes.

(2) Gwen continues to be stupid, acts alone without informing anyone else and walks into obvious trap *rolls eyes*, it doesn't change even when she and her family and friends are facing the threat from the evil god Loki and his followers.

(3) Gwen needs to be rescued instead of standing her ground, until the very end.

(4) Teenagers who are supposed to be trained since birth to become warriors just let the bad guys jump them without much of a fight. Some warriors. *rolls eyes*

Guess what did a warrior girl (who had been trained to fight for her entire life) do after seeing her boyfriend wounded by the evildoers?

She cried.

Yes, she cried.

*sighs*

(5) I realize until Gwen got eaten by a monster, we still have at least three books left to endure her judgmental attitude and stupidity. (Goodness, kill me now!)

(6) The Goddess Nick doesn't act and sound much like a goddess.

(7) The adults are still not doing well with their duty as warriors and teachers.

Still, this book isn't as awful as the second book and Gwen is a tiny bit less annoying, so I'm giving it two stars.

[Stacia (the 2010 club) · Rating 4 out of 5]

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How fitting that my happy place includes an Amazon box.

I'm still running this marathon, getting ready to hit up book 4 before release.

Reasons why this series continues to be awesome :

1. Vic, the talking sword. The snarky, British weapon is still at it and I love him because of it (he gave me a scene where he said if he had a hand, he'd slap it to his forehead in disbelief). He even got into it with an enemy weapon.

"Lucretia!" Vic hissed at the sight of the other sword.
Lucretia's burning red eye narrowed with hate. "Vic!" she snarled right back.
~
"Butter knife!" Lucretia crowed.
"Rusty spoon!" Vic snapped.

2. Grandma Frost. I want her for a grandma. She can wield a sword like a badass, and still stop to put some baked goods on the table. Yes, she still reminds me of Grandma Redbird in a way, but *waves off haters* I don't care.

3. Fenris Wolves! Nott and Nyx...I need to cuddle. Do want!

4. LOGAN 'the spartan' QUINN. Again, with the DO WANT! He is my hot warrior guy. I lurve him. Obsessive girl pic ahead...you've been warned.

Logan was the kind of guy who could skewer you with a paper clip.

5. Action packed scenes do not disappoint. No further clarification needed. I'm happy that there's more to this story than omgzroflhotguy!!! Not that I'm opposed to the hot guy because it's Logan Quinn, after all, but I like stories that hit me with more than just a romance.

6. Mythology is fun. It always has been for me, even back when I was in school. I was excited to rediscover my love for mythology with the Percy Jackson series, and I'm even more excited to have it amped up now with extra fight scenes and a tortured romance.

But it's not all sunshine and rainbows...

1. Repetitive author is repetitive. Wow, it's bad. I mean, really bad. As in, details that we don't even need to have repeated for the sake of having our memory refreshed...yet they keep coming back...again and again. As well, I'm reallllly tired of hearing the term 'band geek.'

2. Impossible scenarios are beaten far too easily. We're outnumbered and out-talented? No problem... Thankfully, these people aren't winning everything, or I'd be forced to cry foul.

3. My book copy glitched out on me to where I couldn't access a few chapters in the middle. I think I figured out what went down due to Estep's need to recap constantly, so it wasn't a huge deal.

4. Needs less cutesy at times. Not a huge complaint, but some of the 'tension' from book 1 has turned too sweet for my liking.

But I think there's potential for more to come...

"What do you say we give them something to really cheer about, Gypsy girl?" Logan whispered.
I arched my eyebrow. "Bring it on, Spartan."

[Esmeralda · Rating 1 out of 5]

Has anyone noticed that the Main Character is almost always being saved. Nike should have choice a better champion. At least one that doesn't think about boys at the time.

[Experiment BL626 · Rating 2 out of 5]

CAUTION: Long Review, Spoilers

It's official. This series suck. I have read book 1-3 and the prequel "First Frost"; I believe I can make this judgement now.

It would take a major effort to turn this series around. It's doable, but unfortunately I don't see that happening any time soon.

The Writing

The beginning was repetitive. I don't mind rehash; I actually appreciate it a lot given the countless series I juggle. However, this series goes overboard with it and Dark Frost is one of the worst examples. Case in point: the book rehashed about Loki and the Helheim Dagger 3-4 times in the first few chapters. Enough already. I get it.

The bright side was the book was slightly fast-paced, faster than book 1 and 2, and had more actions.

The World Building

The world building is still as shallow as book 1. The series said there were Samurais, Ninjas, and Romans but these characters haven't made a presence in the series yet. The series also said there was a plethora of gods but only 4-5 gods have been mentioned so far and they have only been from the Norse and Greek pantheons. It's disappointing to see that the magical world contain Asian influences but there hasn't been anything or anyone Asian in the series.

We are still not given any detail as to how the gods, their champions, and their followers from various pantheon cooperates. It is still a mystery as how the magical world in this series function and by book 3 it shouldn't be. For a series that supposed to be epic and full of magical diversity, it has been a big letdown.

The Characters

+++ Gwen

In book 2, Gwen finally showed some character growth which thrilled me. So it was a goddammit moment when she took couple major steps back in book 3.

The thing that I liked most about Gwen (and possibly the only good trait she had going on for her) was that she embraced her psychometry magic. No matter how little Gwen thought of her magic, if she would realized her potential and set her mind to it her magic could be the most powerful of them all. Too bad Gwen went and sabotaged that hope of her being a competent heroine when she got her ass handed to her multiple times throughout the book. Use your goddamn magic!

And the worst part was that late in the book when boy trouble arose Gwen was willing to give up her magic just so she can make out with Logan. Really!

No, wait. There were at least two other scenes that showed how more infuriating can Gwen get.

One was when she finally learned where the Helheim Dagger was with a clue that was under her nose all along, instead of gathering the professors and guards to come help her collect the dagger like a smart person would Gwen pulled a TSTL act. She went to the hiding place by herself... at night... in the dark... a place where Reapers have infiltrated. Absolutely no surprise what happened next the minute Gwen had her hands on the dagger.

The second scene, also late in the book, was when she had a mental breakdown after using her magic to save herself (finally!) at the cost of a villain's life. What the fuck? The villain died. It was good thing. Despicable dude was going to torture you — some more — and you're having an attack of conscience?!

Does this girl have any ounce of self-preservation instinct?

+++ Logan

In book 1-2, Logan was described as this cool self-assured guy with a player's reputation. In book 3, he was emo. The dude had a classic case of transference. He doesn't know what he want and to deal with his tragic past so pitiful Gwen becomes the target for his frustration.

Note to Logan! Every student in that school you're going to has a tragic past, including Gwen. You're not the only one whose family were killed by reapers.

I cannot see what Gwen see in Logan. The dude is hot, but so is every other boy in that magical world.

+++ Vivian

Vivian revealed as the Loki's Champion was predictable. It was either her, the girl who is suddenly introduced in book 3 and is soooo nice to everyone, or Logan's bitchy ex who everyone knows hates Gwen since the prequel.

Vivian barely had character development. All her family and friends were killed by Reaper, so how did she became a Reaper? The book didn't explain.

But really, the issue I had with Vivian was actually the issue I had with Gwen. Vivian showed how incompetent Gwen was as the series' protagonist. How could Gwen lose to Vivian? Vivian had telepathy, but Gwen's magic was more powerful. Gwen is capable of doing the same sort of mind-warping thing as Vivian. Had Gwen been magic-trained as much she was weapon-trained, she wouldn't have been easily fooled by.

Speaking of which, why isn't Gwen magically-trained? Isn't the magical school suppose to give magic lessons? What a big plot-hole.

In Conclusion

I rate DF 2-stars for it was okay.

At this point, this series has become one of those series where I'm continuing it because I want to know how it ends and not because I care about Gwen. I kinda wish she did died near the end and the series would pick up from another Mythos Academy student's POV. Maybe Oliver the gay Spartan, Gwen's new friend.

[Elena · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as satisfying as I expected. I'll have to think about it.


-- Okay, I think I've thought enough. Here's what I thought:

I've been dying to get my hands on this book. As in dying. As in nothing else mattered as long as I had it in my hands.
Well.. let's just say I'd manage to put it down now and have no regrets.

My first prayer goes to Gwen.
Okay, first off, we kind of knew already how dumb Gwen is. I know, I know, I said that I loved her and stuff. And I do. Really.
But in this book.. I mean I felt like I had to slap her every. fucking. second.
And that wasn't cool.
You know when a writer starts giving you a few hints, but the main character is kind of a moron and doesn't get what the fuck is happening?
Well Gwendolyn Frost went beyond new limits in this book.
Even a.. a FROG would've known what was happening.
I know I usually say don't give low ratings to a book because of a character, but this--this went beyong all rules previously set. I mean it wasn't POSSIBLE not to get what was happening.
I was so fucking, pissed-ly and disbelievingly appalled by her stupidity the entire time.
This book really tried my patience.



And I'm not done. You think I am because I changed paragraph, but I'm not. I just needed some space.
Now, I want to inform our dear Jennifer Estep, whom I sincerely care about, that MAKING YOUR CHARACTERS SELF-BLAMING MORONS WHO WHINE ALL THE TIME ABOUT HOW STUPID THEY ARE HOPING SOMEONE WILL LIE AND TELL THEM THEY'RE NOT does not fucking make them better people or anything.
Like, "oh, she's taking all the blame, she's such a sweetheart" well hell no dude.
Hell no.



It's just fucking annoying.

And Logan. No ladies, don't get your panties in a twist. Of course I loved him. No need to worry. If there's one safe point in this book series, that's him.
Still, I was expecting some big weird Mythos-Academy-like romance here, and instead I didn't really get anything.
I mean yeah, there were a lot of Gwen-Logan scene and for that I was yoohooyeah-glad, but the whole book felt like one giant dangerous roller coaster.
One second they had to speak up about their feelings.
The next they were fighting.
The next they were telling each other how much they cared.
The next they couldn't be together God knew why.
The next.. where was I?
That was the deal here.



And I had a headache.
But at least in the end it's all good between them, which raised my hopes up a little.

Next issue: Am I the only one getting the Harry Potter vibe here? Please tell me I'm not. The series are not exactly similar, but there's a lot of points in common so yeah. I guess I had to mention that.

About the plot in general.. well. Jennifer Estep definitely wanted to sick-worry us. Thank you about that, dear.
And of course this whole big gigantic super mega iper mess we run into is thanks to who? Our moron par-excellence. Yes, you guessed it.

Gwen.

*sigh*

She can't help it. I swear she can't. That girl is such a sweetheart. She tries, and tries, and tries, and then out of the blue something bad happens and her brain can not process it all so fast but everything basically reduces to her ending up in deep shit.



Yes, honey, you did.

Moving on, I think I said pretty much everything.
I am really, truly sorry, but I think I'll have to give three stars to this book. I was debating between three or four.. because I really liked the past two. But jeez, I was really, royally pissed off.
So yeah.
Sorry guys.

[ShoSho · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was bad! I love the idea of it but I'm not enjoying the writing. The author loves repeating the same thing over and over. This book could have been less than half of what it was.
The h is really frustrating, she does a lot of dumb things.
I'm not sure if I want to continue with the series.

[Carole (Carole's Random Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/

I thought that this book was very well done! The action starts quickly in this installment and I was eager to see how everything would work out in the end. This is the third book in the Mythos Academy series which I would recommend in order since the story builds on the events in previous installments of the series. I found this to be an incredibly entertaining and exciting addition to the series.

Gwen and her friends prove how fierce they can be when they are present during a Reaper attack at a local museum. On top of everything else, Gwen needs to find the Helheim Dagger that her mother hid and locate a lost item for a girl at school. She is having some trouble with her friend, Daphne, who is going through a few things of her own. The mystery kept me guessing until the end and I loved that they were a few surprises along the way.

Tara Sands has done a remarkable job with this series. She has expertly brought Gwen and the rest of the characters to life. I love the various character voices that she uses in her reading. I thought that she added just the right amount of emotion and excitement to her reading. I think that she really elevates the story to the next level and I am certain that her narration added to my enjoyment of this story.

I would recommend this series to others. I thought that this book did a fantastic job of blending action, excitement, mythology, and character relationships. I can’t wait to read more of Gwen’s adventures very soon.

[Bookish Pengu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ich muss sagen, dass das bisher mit einer der besten Bände von Mythos Academy war und ich war wie schon beim ersten Lesen sehr begeistert 😍

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Endlich endlich endlich!!! Weil ich nicht Spoilern will, kann ich leider nicht verraten worüber ich mich so freue, aber jeder der es gelesen hat, wird es verstehen :)) dieses Ende!!!! Band 4 liegt mal wieder schon bereit, um nahtlos weiter mit Gwen Abenteuer zu erleben. Ich liebe ja diese Academy vibes und alles was damit zusammenhängt so sehr, ich liebe die Beschreibungen des Schulgeländes, der Unterrichtsstunden, der Wohnheime und allem drum und dran. Einfach nur wundervoll schön, authentisch - plus Fantasy, bedeutet die perfekte Mischung in einer Buchreihe!

[Lina Lovegood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wieder sehr vorhersehbar, aber ich mag die Geschichte und die Charaktere einfach.

[Colleen Houck]

We found out the answers to some secrets in this one. I loved the wolf best and wish I had a cub. So cute! It's interesting to see how the gypsy gift is growing. I really like how this one ended.

[Menna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isdklfhsilfghsdlghsghlghw.....I can't type very well right now and I can't put a coherent thought together so therefore I can't write what I thought about the book. I am overwhelmed with all that fan-freaking-tastic shit that I just read. Now I'm gonna go and do my happy/crazy dance somewhere else before I break the computer screen or something....Logan, Logan. Yes, I have officially lost my mind...

[Μαρία Γεωργοπούλου · Rating 5 out of 5]

Χωρίς περισσότερα λόγια...

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5-3 stars

I kind of hate when I like aspects of a series enough to want to continue reading, even though I don't particularly like the books. The Mythos Academy books are an example of this. I enjoy the mythology and the idea that there are warriors in the world who are descendants of those who fought or assisted in major battles (Spartans, Valkyries, Vikings, etc). I even enjoy the overall storyline - All the good people in the book are fighting against Loki and his reapers to stop another chaos war from occurring. However, I just feel like there is so much superfluous stuff crammed into them that the story doesn't really progress much. I mean, from the time the first book started to the end of this book (book 3 in the series and approximately 1,000 pages later) only a few months have passed but it felt like it took an eternity to get there.

Sadly, most of the filler in the books is "I like this boy, but he doesn't seem to like me, but really he just has a secret that he doesn't want to tell me, but I'm gonna pine over him anyway and then when we kind of figure things out and try to work on a relationship, one of us will do something to annoy the other and we stop talking to each other because we're in high school and that's what we do. Oh, but wait, we're making up again, sort of. I don't know how he feels and rather than ask him or tell him how I feel, I'll just mope instead." I understand that these books are written for young adults and the relationship stuff is probably something they're going through and can relate to, but it wears on me after a while.

The other thing that annoys me a little is that everyone in the book is always telling Gwen how smart she is, but I have to disagree. Yes, she has moments where she displays her intelligence, it's just that I don't always feel like it's at a time that really counts. In every book she either stumbles right into danger (Hi, Preston, the hot boy in book 2 that she couldn't believe was interested in her because she thinks she's not that good looking) and completely doesn't realize it until it's entirely too late, or she is too slow to connect things that she reads/people say until it's too late, assuming she managed to make the connection at all (enter the information about illusions in book 1 and how they seem real in every way until you know they're an illusion). What's more infuriating about the information connecting that she fails to do is that she constantly talks about how her psychometry allows her to remember every single thing she's heard, read, or seen, and she can recall these memories to review them any time she wants. You'd think she'd do this, but instead when she gets an inkling about something someone says, instead of pausing for a minute to call up the memories she has of that thing, she basically says, "Huh...That sounds familiar, but I can't figure out why. Meh, it'll come to me eventually"

I really wish that the books would focus more on the mythological creatures and characters a bit more. As they are, I feel the books leave out so much interesting information about the various Gods, Goddesses, and different warriors, and fail to move the plot along much just to make more room for the sub par love story that feels forced most of the time. On the plus side, we were only reminded of certain things (full names, expensive clothes, and that fact that all Gwen wears is hoodies) a handful of times compared with the previous books.

Overall I'd give this series thus far a 2.5-3 ranking...Not bad enough to hate, but also not really good enough to recommend to most of my friends.

[Kate (VerbVixen) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in the Mythos Academy series, Dark Frost, only adds fuel to the fire of my obsession with this series. I’m OBSESSED, I tell you! The combination of duty and sacrifice, of humility and bravery, of friendship and love. Dear god, I will never get enough of Mythos.

Dark Frost, even more so than Touch of Frost or Kiss of Frost, advances the series plot significantly; it felt like there was more action too which of course I loved! We finally have name and face to put to Loki’s champion; I found there to be something Voldemort-esque in Loki himself this time around as well. All in all, the villains of this series are shaping up to be quite malicious. As if the story itself wasn’t awesome enough, Gwen is all that is good in a hero. She and Logan are a perfect match, though sometimes I want to reach into the book and shake them silly. Every character, even supporting ones, takes you through a myriad of emotions and I was stunned at the accuracy. Every time I found myself thinking: that’s probably how I would feel or that’s understandable. All in all, Mythos Academy is shaping up to be one of my favorite series and I CAN.NOT wait for the next book.

Also, if there is any way for me to get a Fenrir wolf pup, please let me know cause I need one. Like yesterday.

Overall: A

[Khanh, first of her name, mother of bunnies · Rating 2 out of 5]

Oh, Gwen, finally you're growing up, and I'm so proud of you. I'm still not a fan of her, and Logan is still a little asshole (seriously, when other people are telling off your girlfriend in front of both of you, grow some fucking balls and tell them to shut up, ok? Spartans are so not gentlemen), but they're both maturing bit by bit. I was rather happy when the beloved Logan finally lost it with Gwen and told her she's a spoilt little brat sniveling away because of her past tragedies when everyone at Mythos Academy have lost loved ones to Reapers, so grow the f*** up. Despite my overall antipathy for the boy, I had to cheer for him when I read that scene.

Man, Gwen is not very good at interpreting signals. I'm the worst detective ever, I mean give me an Agatha Christie novel that I've read 3x, and I still would not be able to guess whodunnit, and even I guessed the location of the dagger. And Nickamedes, am I the only one reminded of HP's mom Lily & Snape? And rushing off on your own to find a priceless artifact/weapon that could bring about the destruction of the world alone without supervision? TSTL, Gwen. You are way TSTL.

And Vic needs to stfu. A talking sword? What is this? Power Rangers? That is so not badass, and frankly the image of a snarky sword speaking in a British accent is laughable.

[iamreadingdreamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5⭐️

LIEBE!! Mein liebstes Ende der Reihe🤍
Nyx!!! Logan und Gwen!!!

[Mitch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok, Mythos Academy falls squarely into the dumb fun category for me, honestly I didn't think the first two books were that great, but neither were they unenjoyable. I keep reading these though for two reasons, because my sister loves this series so I have to keep getting her the books anyway, and because, well, like I said I liked the first two enough that I'm not going to bail on this one. And Dark Frost didn't disappoint, it's probably about the same as the first two, maybe a little more action packed that its predecessors.

That said, my biggest complaint with this series is that the mythology isn't that great, I would rank it below Percy Jackson even. It's like Jennifer Estep just Wikipediaed (is that even a verb?) all her Greek and Norse mythology and then adapted the entries for her books, name checking other gods here and there as appropriate. How do I know this? Because the Wikipedia entries for the Norse gods seriously suck, I've checked, and there's not much more stuff in these books that what's on Wikipedia. I mean, there are lots of other great material on the Norse gods out there, would it hurt to read a couple of books before writing this?

Anyway, the reason I still liked the books though is because of Gwen and Daphne. I like Gwen, she's spunky and tough and conflicted and even though I don't care for her and Logan together, well by herself she's pretty cool. I like Daphne too, and I like Gwen's friendship with Daphne even more because it's not so common seeing two very different characters like these striking up a friendship, so that's cool too. Although I'm more than a little disappointed Daphne's not as a big part of this book as the previous two, because she and Gwen has a falling out early on. Oh well. Oh, and Vic the talking sword. One of the most er interesting weapons in fantasy.

And I guess the plot - it's a race against time and Loki's champion to find the final artifact to prevent Loki from escaping his prison - and character development here worked for me. Well almost, Gwen and Logan going on and off bored me as usual, but I'll readily admit I'm not the target audience for that and I really didn't pay much attention to it, so what does my opinion really matter. Besides that, there's a lot more Loki, Loki's champion as promised, and Gwen has to come to terms with her ability, make a couple of tough choices. Always a fan of tough choices and characters having to deal with the aftermath of them. Gwen's definitely learned a few things about herself, about the Mythos Academy world, since the first book. So yeah, liked the ending.

And yeah, Dark Frost's another, well, I want to say acceptable, but what I really mean is about as good as the previous books, entry in the series. I have to get the next book, Crimson Frost, anyway, so here's hoping Estep steps up the mythology a notch next year. Fingers crossed.

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! When I finished this, I had to take a few moments after to go over what I just read. In case you haven't read my reviews for the previous books in this series, this series is a favorite of mine. I love the mythology, and not just one isolated version either, but myths from all around the globe combined together. But what I loved the most was, as Gwen searches and searches for an artifact, the story doesn't stall. It doesn't hold out until the next book for something to happen.

This book, things get dark. I was surprised on how this ended. Shocked, even. But I loved it. While at the time I read it, I wasn't so sure, but now that I've had time to think on it, I thought it really escalates the story and leaves me itching to get my hands on the next one even more than the others did. The battle is is a sure thing. And it's not in the distant future. It's upon them. While it seems weird to me a little, I'm giddy to see this battle. I'm excited to see Gwen thrown even further into the mix. And it looks like I don't have to wait too long for it either. It just may be the next book where everything goes down. Or starts.

Love, love, love this series. It's imaginative and unique among others of the mythological/urban fantasy genre. I could get lost in the world of Gwen Frost, happily reading along as I cheer her on. Jennifer Estep's Mythos Academy is a series not to be missed.

[Terri ♥ (aka Mrs. Christian Grey) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick review:

Cover: Okay
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4
Overall: Now I’m annoyed
Characters: Well Written
Plot: Who done it.
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Logan

SUMMARY (50 words or less)
So I was again longing for this romance to blossom. And it fizzes. And I’m starting to feel like Chicagoland. I would be better off if no romance exist. It seems like they can’t catch a break. However, this book was a little less predictable than the last two.

For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:

http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...

Audio Review
Tara Sands continues to do an incredible job.

[Annie Brewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! Absolutely epic!!!!! Best in the series so far!!!! Awesome, awesome, awesome!!!!!

I have so much to say in my review regarding this continuation, but I'll have to wait until tonight to write it out. All I can say is, this book gave me major whiplash and anxiety. But I loved every bit of it!!

And ummmm, Logan freaking Quinn. Yep, I'm so ridiculously in love with Spartan boy. Sigh.

Review to come shortly!

So, this book was a surprise, a happy surprise. I mean, I've loved every Mythos book thus far, but this book just blew my mind. With all the revelations, surprises, nail-biting sequence of events happening in like every chapter. Yeah, it was AWESOME! There was never a dull moment. Ever.

First, Dark Frost starts up after Kiss of Frost ends. And I mean, in the beginning, the action starts. The gang at Mythos Academy come back from Winter Break...and already, there's an attack at the coliseum. Reapers have attacked, killing students, and injuring some. It's utter chaos. Can't the poor kids come back and get settled back into routine before shit hits the fan? Huh? Well, I guess Jennifer Estep had other plans.

Okay, well shit. So Gwen, Carson, Daphne and my favorite, Logan freaking Quinn are happen to be at the coliseum and are getting attacked. They fight back, and that's when Gwen is face to face with Reaper Girl, the one who's desperate to get a hold of the Helheim Dagger, the same one Gwen is trying to find, since her mother had hid it so well. Eventually, Reaper Girl runs off and leaves something behind, something Gwen discovers and shows the Mythos staff; Metis, Nickamedes and Ajax. They try to figure out what it means. So, once everyone comes back to campus and sees what a mess the courteous reapers left behind, things finally calm down and return to normal.

Except, Gwen knows nothing will ever be normal. She has killers on the loose, waiting for the right time to strike. And damn if they do it well. Sneaky bastards. There's betrayal, lies, deceit, and a whole lotta fuckery going on. Gwen must find a way to get uncover the hidden dagger before her enemies get a hold of it. Once they get the dagger, they'll have the upper hand, and then they can use that to free Loki from his prison and all hell...and Chaos is gonna break loose.

I don't want to spoil things for anyone who has not read it. But I will say, SHIT HIT THE FAN. I was biting my nails, panicking, and hyperventilating so many times. Like I mentioned above, I was having major anxiety. Gwen always seemed to find trouble right when everyone left her alone. I kept screaming; DON'T LEAVE HER ALONE!!!! But of course, no one could hear me. GAH! I was so nervous. Tears were shed for many different reason. Nott. Sniff.

Again, Estep is not afraid to put these characters in danger and test their strengths. They kicked ass, and got beat, but they never gave up. This is such an awesome group, I love every one of these characters. Almost. Daphne. Love her. At first, she worried me with her hostile attitude towards Gwen, but you understand in time. Her power isn't what she's wanted and it made her bitter. But she snapped out of it, and was herself again. Thank God. I love that girl. She's so loyal to Gwen, to Carson. I just love her. Carson. Man, shit was so close with him. I was so scared and almost cried for him. But then, something happened, and it turned out okay. Still, he's a wonderful band geek. And a great friend. I love him and Daphne as a couple. They're too cute. Oliver. He was great once again. I loved how he came to Gwen's aide when no one else would at the time. Even though it turned out, help was not needed. But I give kudos to him for not questioning her and just going with it. I love his dedication for those he cares about and his loyalty. Way to go Oliver. Kenzie, Metis, Morgan, Ajax and even Savannah were great. All of them, sticking together, acting like a big family, it was wonderful.

Nickamedes. I didn't like you much. You were such a jerk, for no reason. But damn if I didn't start tearing up at your heartfelt confession. You breathed encouragement into Gwen when she lost it all. You gave her the confidence not to give up. And then when you explained to her about her mom, well that explains a lot about your hateful attitude towards her. Thank you for giving me a reason to like you. I really needed one and beside the fact that you're related to the hottest Spartan ever, ahem...Logan...well, it totally sealed the deal. You're alright.

Grandma Frost. She kicked total ass. I always loved this lady. She was such a soft-spoken, kind-hearted lady. Gwen is lucky to have a grandma like her. Her love, her support, her amazing baking is enough to wish this lady was real. I mean, who wouldn't want a grandmother who can kill a bunch of reapers and still bake some yummy chocolate chip cookies? I sure as hell do! I'll take one! You don't fuck with this bitch or she'll tear your ass a new hole!

Gwen. Oh Gwen Frost. I love your badass-ness. Sure, you still have a lot to learn, and a lot to discover about your powers, but really, you still can beat the shit outta some reapers when you need to. I trust that in the next coming books, you're just gonna get stronger and wiser and amazing. I already love you. Although, you do repeat yourself at times, but I'll let it all slide. You're the most loyal, selfless and caring warrior out there. Not to mention, you keep holding on. I mean, with all the pressure for being Nike's Champion and saving the world, you've got a lot to stress about. But you're still pretty awesome. I probably would've given up. You, you didn't. You're still willing to sacrifice so much to save everyone. You'll grow into your Gypsy powers and you'll defeat Loki and stop this Chaos war from happening, because I believe. I have faith, so you should too. Quit beating yourself up about it. You were duped, and so was I. Damn, I hate when that happens. We both like to see the good in others rather than the evil they really are. I can't wait to continue this series with you, since it's making its way up to my favorites list.



And finally, my favorite Spartan, Logan freaking Quinn. I fucking love him. My heart is so full of joy right now, and of course all the butterflies and shit after that ending. Ahhhh, he's just perfect! I've loved him since day one and it's only intensified with each book. I'm so glad he quit holding in all his feelings, what good does that do? Besides making them both miserable. But it was such a great scene, and it made me all sappy and mushy for him. He's such a sweet, sexy, amazing, and bad ass warrior...and sex on legs. Yes, I said that. He's, Sex. On. Legs. With a sword. AH! I want, I want! I really want! Sign me up for a piece of that!



Yes, he's hot hot hot!!!!!!!! It's Logan Freaking Quinn. What else would I expect? Anyway, with Logan by Gwen's side, she should never feel unsafe. Being wrapped up in his strong arms is a place every girl wants to be. Oh yeah, true story. Ha ha, I'm such a giddy teenager right now. That's what this boy does to me. LOVE him!

The action. Well, every book has action and plenty of it to keep you glued to the pages. But I'll say Dark Frost has upped the ante thus far, as far as action goes. It was intense. It was suspenseful. Every time something happened, my heart was pounding with anticipation of what was to come of it. I kept wondering how Gwen would get out of that one. But then she did...albeit, not easily. But Estep did a great job of ripping the rug straight from underneath you until you fell on your face. About halfway through, the puzzle started to form in my head, and I was like, Oh HELL NO! I was ready to jump in the book and beat some fucking reapers down myself. Ugh. Little sneaky evil shits. But she didn't need my help, afterall. She really surprised me, in a good way. I get what people are saying as far as the previous books being explained over and over in each book. It was...a bit repetitive. But I love this series too much that I just nodded and moved on.

Overall. I loved it! It was such a crazy, intense ride and I never wanted to get off. I love this group of characters. They work well together. They're there for each other. They're like family. And I love that the most. They stick together and kick reaper ass, what more could you ask for? Also, the Mythology is just fantastic. Estep weaves it all together so fluidly, and engagingly. I can't wait to read Crimson Frost. I'm so excited. This series is beyond incredible and I have no doubt that it'll only get better.

Oh yeah, how could I forget...Vic? The snarky talking sword?? I LOVE HIM! He's a great character, or object and keeps it entertaining. Also, Nott. I just loved the Fenrir Wolf. So sad. I love her. Awwww, sniff. Dammit. That was one of the saddest parts of all that happened. I want a little wolf pup now. She still has Nyx now though, so yay. She's gonna take over her mommy's job now and protect Gwen and her friends. This sucks though, because I can't buy CF just yet. I only had the first 3 in paperback, but now I have to wait until the weekend. Boo! Well, as soon as I get my hands on that book, I'll be continuing this series. I need to know what happens next with Logan and Gwen, now that they FINALLY decided to stop effing around and become a couple. YAY!!!!!!!! About time!
If you haven't started this series, I highly recommend them if you like Mythology or paranormal romance. Or if you're a sucker for a sexy black-haired, blue-eyed Spartan. It's amazing, non-stop, keep your eyes glued to the pages kinda series.

"What do you say we give them something to really cheer about, Gypsy girl?" Logan whispered.

I arched my eyebrow. "Bring it on, Spartan."

[Laura (acquariusgb) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great start and great finish in the book.

It's strange that only a few months have passed since the beginning of the series because a lot of things have happened since then.

Gwen continues her journey as Nike's champion with all its difficulties and set backs. In this book we'll explore more of Gwen as an individual having to learn to do things on her own and not with the friends she made through out the first and second book.

The battle is intense and great description of the action scenes. There are some plot twist I wasn't expecting and the finale left me without words.

The only critic I have is that, since it's the third book of the series, some details shouldn't be repeated again. By now we should all know who Daphne is, Logan, and what Grandma Frost does for living and that there is a talking sword named Vic. There are a lot of repetitions and some information are really not necessary at this point.

Overall it was a great read and I can't wait to continue the series.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whenever I start a Jennifer Estep novel, I feel a bit snooty- like it won’t be very good. And every single time, it turns out to be a great read and Dark Frost is no exception. Gwen discovers a new way to use her magic, meets up with an old friend, uncovers a treasure and has a turbulent time with Logan. Also we get some idea of the end game for the series. One quality of this series is the high level of action from almost the first page, without somehow compromising on friendships and character development.

[☆☆Hannah☆☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is one of those series that is okay. It's not terrible but not great. Gwen is dealing with a lot and apparently drama loves her. Plus her best friend is going through some things which makes her treat Gwen terribly. On top of all that the bad guy gets lose and now things are going to get real for the rest of the series. I just hope the pettiness stays out.

[MISS VAIN · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Did Logan just give that girl an autograph?” Daphne asked, drumming her fingers on top of the table and making pink sparks of magic shoot out everywhere.

Carson hesitated. “That’s what it looks like.”

The girl gave Logan another smile before giggling again and rushing off. She hurried over to the table where her own friends were sitting and showed them the piece of paper. This time, they all erupted in a fit of giggles.

“Geez,” I muttered. “it’s a wonder they all don’t just go over there, take off their shirts, and ask him to sign their bras.”


Dark Frost picks up a few weeks after the events of Kiss of Frost. It’s the end of winter break and Gwen Frost is looking forward to being back at Mythos Academy with her pink and sparkly best friend Valkyre Daphne and her boyfriend? Friend? Crush? Spartan-Licious  Logan Freaking  Quinn; well that’s exactly why she’s eager to get back and find out what exactly are they?!

From the first chapter Gypsy girl, Gwen frost gets an unfortunate visit from the Repears that costs lives around her staring off her new semester at Mythos with bloodshed. I found myself captivated from the very first page, and that’s what I love about Jennifer Estep‘s fascinating story telling. Due to this unfortunate bloodbath laid out before Gwen and her friends at Mythos Academy, Gwen is in full survival mode, with Vic the talking dagger in tow. I love that ruthless, bloodthirsty dagger.

“Bloody reapers.” The sword mumbled. “Kill them all….”

Between escaping Reapers looking for the Hellheim dagger and keeping those she loves safe, the Sassy Gwen Frost has her hands full. Luckily that just added to the fascinating mythical tale Jennifer Estep intertwines with this dark romance story. Gypsy girl Gwen sets her sights on locating the Hellheim dagger before the Reapers can possess it ultimately bringing Loki, the Norse god of Chaos to the world and Mythos Academy, while trying to hang on to the glimmer of hope Logan has left her with at the end of Kiss of Frost.

Let me tell you that the sexual tension between these two is almost unbearable. I have a soft spot for a bad boy hero, so when he’s being his usual distant philandering self, he make me desire him even more, however in those spellbinding moments when he becomes vulnerable and turns on the charm with Gwen, I’m a giddy little school once again. I simply cannot get enough of Logan Freaking Quinn. Pink & Sparkly and Daphne is my favorite supporting character and I enjoyed watching her gain more Valkyre powers while knitting an even closer friendship bond with Gwen.

I don’t want to spoil any of the plot for you, but I wills say that this book is non stop action from the very beginning. Dark Frost explores deeper into the Mythological realm and becomes a darker romance than the previous installments making it my favorite of the three so far.

“Oh just tell the boy you bloody love him and be done with it,” Vic growled. “This lovey-dovey stuff gives me heartburn. Don’t you agree, fuzzball?”

As a Mythos Academy fan already I can say that Dark Frost exceeded my high expectations already set forth in the two previous books. If you’re a fan of mythical creatures, Swords that talk back, Fenir Wolfs, intelligent Badass heroines, remarkably charismatic supporting characters and the Spartan-Licious Logan “Freaking” Quinn, you will not be dissapointed. Dark Frost is a must read! Unfortunately Crimson Frost doesn’t come out until 2013 and I want now!

“You’re not a coward,” I said. “I never for one minute thought you were a coward. I’m the coward.”

“Why would you say that?”

“Because I want you, but I’m afraid to be with you.”

 

ARC provided for review by author

http://MissVainsParanormalFantasy.com

[Mike (the Paladin) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well I don't think it's a spoiler to say that, lucky for all humanity, Gwen Frost's heart is pure. So, I guess she has the strength of 10. That would be moral strength however as the Amazons, Valkyries, Spartans, vikings and pretty much everyone else who attends Mythos Academy can kick her butt physical strength wise.

I've read this series and have had mixed feelings about it from volume one on. Teen/YA novels are not all the same. they don't all aim for the same audience. A large group of these young readers are looking for what amounts to emotion soaked stories about "young love", heart break and so on. Others are looking for a character driven story that follows a character or characters through the struggles of growing up (often in a magical world as is the case here). Others look for a mainly plot driven story with a strong and well thought out storyline. If you're lucky the last 2 will both be present.

Here there has been a struggle to tell a story but to make the book as emotion soaked as (I suppose) the writer's target audience would like. Each volume has included more of the emotion laden side of things and by this book it's finally gotten to be too much for me.

There is a pretty good plot here. Set amongst a collision of mythologies where the Greek goddess of victory (who makes sneakers in her spare time {see her name's Nike' get it? I guess jokes aren't as good when you have to explain them]) has gone up against Loki. Where all the mythologies kind of are present and the kids descended from mythological figures, champions and so on go to a mythic school to learn how to fight against the bad guys (like Loki). Of course bad guy students and even teachers sneak in among the good guy teachers and students and often cause havoc, mayhem and kill people.

Clear as mud?


Well as I said the plot has been pretty well handled and the characters are "knowable". Up to now I've stayed interested.

This time however 2 of my pet peeves finally screamed in my ear loud enough so that the book almost had to be put down for it's own good.

First, Gwen may be getting older but she has failed to mature. She's still the same whinny kid we met early on and her angst is killing me.

Second, the plot in this one at times got completely lost in the concerns of the heart, the estrogen seeps off the pages out of the screen or the speaker/headset depending on how you are experiencing the book. The tears may well short out any electronic devices you are using.

In short (if it's not too late for that) the plot, the storyline is very secondary to the various concerns of the heart. Who loves who, who misunderstands who, who stole who's boyfriend, why am I acting like a spoiled 12 year old and I believe the world revolves about my emotions?

Oh well. The plot is there if you look and the story (finally) gets moved along but even then after climatic events we need to retire to the school and tie up some more of our confused love lives.

If this is what you're looking for romance fans, you have it. And you get a pretty good story stuffed into the cracks between all the angst and emotion. I however sadly am not looking for that so, in spite of the fact that I do like some of the story and the struggling plot I probably won't follow this any further.

If however you like romance and a little left over action these might be for you. To each.

[Haley · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Spoiler Alert*

First of all, let me extend my thanks to Kensington and Netgalley for the chance to read this novel.

Dark Frost was a thrilling installment, full of rage and desire, froth with danger and teeming with secrets that are begging for sunlight. Gwen is really having a tuff time of it. Things with Logan are still not going where she wants them to, Daphne is acting odd, and reapers are planting clues everywhere…but are they really clues and if so what for? When everything starts coming together, Gwen finds a horrifying truth about herself that maybe she just can’t accept, and that no one else will either…

As this series progresses, I find myself liking each book better. Gwen loses her mom in the first book, and then finds herself transported to Mythos Academy for “Gifted” students. The academy changes Gwen from a girl who is unsure of herself and her own powers into the women who knows exactly who she is and what she stands for. Logan…sigh…what should I say about Logan. He is totally cold, then so stinking hot he is steaming. And he gave Gwen a very expensive diamond necklace that she wears everywhere. But they both have trouble trusting each other with their, for lack of a better word, hearts, and it drives them apart. And Carson and Daphne were as cute as ever, naturally. Even with the obsessive making out. Daphne gets her power! Muhahaha….what has that do with them making out, you ask? Nothing!!!

Another thing that I way enjoyed was the wolf. The crazy demented one who Gwen saved and then was saved by in book number 2. It was nice and interesting how Miss Estep developed this animal into a character that you want to love and have for yourself.

Of course, the writing was phenomenal. I did find myself skipping a bit if there was…exceptionally uninteresting things about mythology. But generally no more than a few paragraphs. The characters are exceptional themselves, and the story is very well put together with some unforeseeable twists that leave you breathless with wanting.

Especially if you read that chapter excerpt from the next book. Don’t read that if you are a impatient person. It would be bad for your heath.

[Amber Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought Dark Frost was a great addition to the overall series. I am loving how much magical and mythical elements the story has. I am well versed on the back story of Loki and his chaos so to see an author weave that through a modern day story is fascinating to me. In Dark Frost I feel like Gwen is maturing and learning to stand on her own two feet. She still needs a lot of help fighting reapers, but thankfully she has a wonderful group of friends that keeps growing with every story. The romance between Gwen and Logan is also well done. We get just a touch of their slow burning romance, but with the seriousness of Gwen's missions for Nike I think it strikes the right balance. Each books gets a little darker and more intense, which I love!

[Ronda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book in the series so far!!! LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!!! It's been a little while since a book made me cry (more than once I might add!!!)

So Gwen is still on her quest from the previous book, Daphne and Carson right alongside her and Logan on the edges... Daphne plays a bigger role in this book, her magic quickens and things happen but Gwen and Daphne's friendship survives..

I simply adore Nott - my favourite animal ever.... and then we meet Nyx... can't say anymore on that one but emotions grabbed me everyway that they could!!!

What does happen in this book shocks me, I didn't expect it to happen so quick and when it does it puts things in motion... I know I'm skirting around the edges, I just don't want to provide any spoilers... what I will say is I loved the ending and it paves the way for book 4 - bring it on!!!

Simply Love Jennifer Estep!!!