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The Myths of the Northern Lands #2
Ice Wolves
We’ve been driven from our home, and we’ve lost everything. Our fellows are locked within the grip of Lord Gabin. The betrayal by the one person I thought I could trust was unexpected and painful, which makes it just me and Jyry now. We have our friends, but whether that will be enough, I’m not so sure. And so, I’m training harder than ever. I need to be a real warrior now. We have to find a way to convince our allies to fight with us, since that’s the only way to defeat the Southern Warlord and the Red Lion Legion that occupy our home. The Red Lion Legion is pressing closer to us with every passing day while we hide like cowards. It’s time to fight back. But if we fail, more of our fellows will die, and the entirety of the Northern Lands and life as we know it will be lost forever.
The Northern Lands is a world inspired by Scandinavia, the Viking ages, and Norse mythology, where myths come back alive and find new meaning. The bonds between the seven clans are tested. The edges between allies and foes are blurred when the Northern Lands find themselves in a war with the Southern Warlord and his legion.
(This book contains trigger warnings such as battle, healing practices both on page and mentioned)
The Northern Lands is a world inspired by Scandinavia, the Viking ages, and Norse mythology, where myths come back alive and find new meaning. The bonds between the seven clans are tested. The edges between allies and foes are blurred when the Northern Lands find themselves in a war with the Southern Warlord and his legion.
(This book contains trigger warnings such as battle, healing practices both on page and mentioned)
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2025
1 person is currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Sloothaak
2 books28 followersAmanda Sloothaak is an self-published author (under the name of her own Indie Imprint: It Mearke Publishing) who was born and grew up in a small town in Fryslân, the Netherlands, where she still resides. She has a deep love for nature, rainy days, and specifically the cold temperatures. Her family nourished creativity all her life, through which she developed a voracious appetite for reading, mythology, history, and creating her own worlds with writing.
When she isn't writing, you can find her taking long walks with her dog in the woods, dragging her photo camera along, trying to narrow down her never-ending TBR, studying mythology and history, or painting and drawing.
When she isn't writing, you can find her taking long walks with her dog in the woods, dragging her photo camera along, trying to narrow down her never-ending TBR, studying mythology and history, or painting and drawing.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 15, 2025
Amanda Sloothaak's sequel to her debut novel Fire Fox picks up straight where the last book ended as Dawn and her companions plot to retake their home from the invaders who've taken it over...
A compelling take on how war blurs the clearcut lines between good and evil you think you know exist in peacetime; while I love the concepts of fighting for your freedom and liberating your homeland that so frequently appears in the fantasy genre, Sloothaak raises a good point through the backstories of Emerick and Vidya that even in a vile culture, there can still be good people, or that the enemy are not all monsters: some are just trying to survive.
Dawn's relationship with Ulf remains a highlight, and there were scenes that had me on the edge of my seat during the reading (my teeth were gritted all the way through a particularly nailbiting scene involving a hanging), and while the end felt a little hasty, it still feels open ended enough to allow further exploration of this setting should the author wish...
If you enjoy Norse mythology-inspired low fantasy with a nuanced heroine in the lead, definitely consider reading both Ice Wolves and Fire Fox.
Ice Wolves comes out on September 20th.
(I was given an advance copy of Ice Wolves in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own.)
A compelling take on how war blurs the clearcut lines between good and evil you think you know exist in peacetime; while I love the concepts of fighting for your freedom and liberating your homeland that so frequently appears in the fantasy genre, Sloothaak raises a good point through the backstories of Emerick and Vidya that even in a vile culture, there can still be good people, or that the enemy are not all monsters: some are just trying to survive.
Dawn's relationship with Ulf remains a highlight, and there were scenes that had me on the edge of my seat during the reading (my teeth were gritted all the way through a particularly nailbiting scene involving a hanging), and while the end felt a little hasty, it still feels open ended enough to allow further exploration of this setting should the author wish...
If you enjoy Norse mythology-inspired low fantasy with a nuanced heroine in the lead, definitely consider reading both Ice Wolves and Fire Fox.
Ice Wolves comes out on September 20th.
(I was given an advance copy of Ice Wolves in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own.)
September 19, 2025
I enjoyed reading a copy of Amanda Sloothaak’s second book Ice Wolves. To say that the plot and storytelling are riveting is an understatement.
This story moves quickly and the fight scenes had me on the edge of my seat.
In Ice Wolves, we as readers have the opportunity to mature alongside the main character, Dawn. Her story and mission boldly and unapologetically continue as we witness her develop into a formidable adversary, friend, and foe.
Dawn’s journey is both fierce and tender, reminding us of the strength it takes to stand up for what is lost and the resilience it takes to reclaim it.
This sequel not only deepens the world of Norse Mythology, but also expands on the themes of courage, identity, and belonging. Sloothlaak’s storytelling pulled me in immediately and left me invested all the way to the epilogue.
My biggest takeaway is this…hope, triumph, and healing are possible even in the harshest of trials.
I look forward to many more stories by Amanda Sloothaak.
This story moves quickly and the fight scenes had me on the edge of my seat.
In Ice Wolves, we as readers have the opportunity to mature alongside the main character, Dawn. Her story and mission boldly and unapologetically continue as we witness her develop into a formidable adversary, friend, and foe.
Dawn’s journey is both fierce and tender, reminding us of the strength it takes to stand up for what is lost and the resilience it takes to reclaim it.
This sequel not only deepens the world of Norse Mythology, but also expands on the themes of courage, identity, and belonging. Sloothlaak’s storytelling pulled me in immediately and left me invested all the way to the epilogue.
My biggest takeaway is this…hope, triumph, and healing are possible even in the harshest of trials.
I look forward to many more stories by Amanda Sloothaak.
September 20, 2025
Ice Wolves is the second book set in the Myths of the Northern Lands world and the final instalment of the Fire Fox duology.
In this second book, which takes off right where Fire Fox ended, Amanda Sloothaak not only explores the topic of grief and how different characters cope with that, but also how war weighs on them and what they have to endure in order to get their home back.
I loved how she portrayed the enemies that took over their home. That not all of them are bad and that there is more to their behaviour than we initially thought. But what I enjoyed the most was the relationship between the Naotha clan and their companion wolves. And how, thanks to this clan, Dawn and Ulf get closer on a deeper level as well. I really enjoyed Ulf in the first book and was happy to dive more into their relationship in Ice Wolves.
Amanda also made sure to keep surprising the reader throughout the book until the very last chapter! Everything I hoped for, and didn’t hope for, happened. The book made me cheer but also brought me even close to tears at not one but two points. That on its own is reason enough to pick up this book (or duology if you haven’t read Fire Fox yet)!
—
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review on Ice Wolves.
In this second book, which takes off right where Fire Fox ended, Amanda Sloothaak not only explores the topic of grief and how different characters cope with that, but also how war weighs on them and what they have to endure in order to get their home back.
I loved how she portrayed the enemies that took over their home. That not all of them are bad and that there is more to their behaviour than we initially thought. But what I enjoyed the most was the relationship between the Naotha clan and their companion wolves. And how, thanks to this clan, Dawn and Ulf get closer on a deeper level as well. I really enjoyed Ulf in the first book and was happy to dive more into their relationship in Ice Wolves.
Amanda also made sure to keep surprising the reader throughout the book until the very last chapter! Everything I hoped for, and didn’t hope for, happened. The book made me cheer but also brought me even close to tears at not one but two points. That on its own is reason enough to pick up this book (or duology if you haven’t read Fire Fox yet)!
—
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review on Ice Wolves.
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September 6, 2025Just 2 weeks until this book, my second self-published book and the final book for Dawn and the Myths of the Northern Lands duology, will go out in the world. I'm so proud of this book still (but really the whole duology). A lot of my soul has been put in this story. A final goodbye to the once 21 year old me, of sorts. Yet it feels wrong to rate it myself.
Either way, for the people interested and eagerly putting this one on their digital shelves:
You have to have read Fire Fox for this one to make sense.
It also comes with a number content warnings which can be checked on: https://www.amandasloothaak.com/books... (not mentioned here as some people consider them to be spoilers)
I hope to gives you enough extra information about the book and if you decide to pick up the duology, Thank you from my heart! It's so much appreciated.
Either way, for the people interested and eagerly putting this one on their digital shelves:
You have to have read Fire Fox for this one to make sense.
It also comes with a number content warnings which can be checked on: https://www.amandasloothaak.com/books... (not mentioned here as some people consider them to be spoilers)
I hope to gives you enough extra information about the book and if you decide to pick up the duology, Thank you from my heart! It's so much appreciated.
September 20, 2025
*Spoilers Ahead*
“Wow” was literally the last thing I said after finishing Ice Wolves. I had the opportunity to read the first book in Amanda’s duology, and just like with Fire Fox, I thoroughly enjoyed reading more of Sloothaak’s character Dawn and her story.
Ice Wolves picks up where Fire Fox left off, allowing us to have a deeper understanding of Dawn and the company she keeps. As well as the Northern Lands that have a striking difference to Dawn's home with a deeper connection to the wolves themselves, and to the community they create.
The influence of Norse Mythology is always a treat to read in this duology, showcasing character development from the first book to this one, as well as how the myths of the land tie in with its people and the environment.
This was definitely fast paced, but it helped as you moved from one chapter to the next: putting all the pieces together of why Dawn seemed to be unraveling and how the loss of her home and parts of her past quickly crept up on her. It felt real, her journey, and how it impacted those closest to her. And being able to see her realize how her actions and feelings had more of an impact than she realized was startling, but in a way that tied in with the plot that constantly had me on the edge of my seat.
The wolves were already a nice touch to the sense of community for Dawn and co, but I could also see that the wolves, in a sense, could resemble the characters' humanity. Ulf is still a favorite in my eyes, and it was nice to see him again and stick by Dawn's side. To me, he was that innocence she still held onto, even when she initially lost her home.
If you're looking for a low fantasy, Norse mythological influenced duology, then you need to check out both Fire Fox and Ice Wolves. And follow along with Dawn and her journey, and how the myths of the land will always find a way to bring the light through the darkness. Highly recommend you check this out!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Release date is September 20th, 2025.
“Wow” was literally the last thing I said after finishing Ice Wolves. I had the opportunity to read the first book in Amanda’s duology, and just like with Fire Fox, I thoroughly enjoyed reading more of Sloothaak’s character Dawn and her story.
Ice Wolves picks up where Fire Fox left off, allowing us to have a deeper understanding of Dawn and the company she keeps. As well as the Northern Lands that have a striking difference to Dawn's home with a deeper connection to the wolves themselves, and to the community they create.
The influence of Norse Mythology is always a treat to read in this duology, showcasing character development from the first book to this one, as well as how the myths of the land tie in with its people and the environment.
This was definitely fast paced, but it helped as you moved from one chapter to the next: putting all the pieces together of why Dawn seemed to be unraveling and how the loss of her home and parts of her past quickly crept up on her. It felt real, her journey, and how it impacted those closest to her. And being able to see her realize how her actions and feelings had more of an impact than she realized was startling, but in a way that tied in with the plot that constantly had me on the edge of my seat.
The wolves were already a nice touch to the sense of community for Dawn and co, but I could also see that the wolves, in a sense, could resemble the characters' humanity. Ulf is still a favorite in my eyes, and it was nice to see him again and stick by Dawn's side. To me, he was that innocence she still held onto, even when she initially lost her home.
If you're looking for a low fantasy, Norse mythological influenced duology, then you need to check out both Fire Fox and Ice Wolves. And follow along with Dawn and her journey, and how the myths of the land will always find a way to bring the light through the darkness. Highly recommend you check this out!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Release date is September 20th, 2025.
September 28, 2025
“Tears push their way out of me, and I let them roll free. I want to go home. I want to fight for freedom. But fear is stronger.”
Ice Wolves is the second book of The Myths of the Northern Lands. It’s a completed duology and a 5 star book for me! Thank you for the ebooks! I will continue to show my support and purchase the series, these books deserve a place on my shelf!
Dawn’s fight for love, family and friends was so powerful and raw. This is journey of healing and growing for her. She trains harder, grows stronger but also wrestles with her self doubts and stubbornness. But she is resilient. The stakes are high with the loss of her home and death at every decision, so the pacing was perfect and kept me turning the pages.
“We will get through this. There’s nothing on this Earth or in the Nine Worlds that will stop us from getting your home back,” he whispers”
It’s stories like this that I take strength from. I am definitely the right reader for this book.
I enjoyed how it was light on the romance but whether the love was for home, friendship and family. The story is about Dawn’s growth and journey. But her and Nilán’s bond deepens as she learns to lean on him and accept his care and help.
“I always pushed him away, even when he tried to help me. If only I would have allowed myself to feel earlier and more, then I could have been spending time with my friends while we were at the Náotha clan instead of every moment in the training ring. I made so many wrong decisions along the way. I curl up tighter. Nilán could have been my pillar to lean on, and I could have supported him as well. I could have been his source of strength”
The battle scenes and death are not for the faint of heart, it’s emotional and tells the plot so well. And the twist, what a ride. This series has everything I enjoy with reading! - World building, high stakes, epic journey, and powerful storytelling!
I completely immersed myself into this world inspired by Scandinavia, Vikings and Norse mythology with listening to Nordic ambient music. I felt this story and the ending, I’m speechless. I can’t wait to read more from Amanda!
Ice Wolves is the second book of The Myths of the Northern Lands. It’s a completed duology and a 5 star book for me! Thank you for the ebooks! I will continue to show my support and purchase the series, these books deserve a place on my shelf!
Dawn’s fight for love, family and friends was so powerful and raw. This is journey of healing and growing for her. She trains harder, grows stronger but also wrestles with her self doubts and stubbornness. But she is resilient. The stakes are high with the loss of her home and death at every decision, so the pacing was perfect and kept me turning the pages.
“We will get through this. There’s nothing on this Earth or in the Nine Worlds that will stop us from getting your home back,” he whispers”
It’s stories like this that I take strength from. I am definitely the right reader for this book.
I enjoyed how it was light on the romance but whether the love was for home, friendship and family. The story is about Dawn’s growth and journey. But her and Nilán’s bond deepens as she learns to lean on him and accept his care and help.
“I always pushed him away, even when he tried to help me. If only I would have allowed myself to feel earlier and more, then I could have been spending time with my friends while we were at the Náotha clan instead of every moment in the training ring. I made so many wrong decisions along the way. I curl up tighter. Nilán could have been my pillar to lean on, and I could have supported him as well. I could have been his source of strength”
The battle scenes and death are not for the faint of heart, it’s emotional and tells the plot so well. And the twist, what a ride. This series has everything I enjoy with reading! - World building, high stakes, epic journey, and powerful storytelling!
I completely immersed myself into this world inspired by Scandinavia, Vikings and Norse mythology with listening to Nordic ambient music. I felt this story and the ending, I’m speechless. I can’t wait to read more from Amanda!
August 4, 2025
Review to come
September 22, 2025
4,5 stars – A fascinating journey of healing and friendship in times of war
I loved returning to this Northern world with hardheaded warriors, folklore, fur, fangs and old clan feuds. This story makes you want to return to ancient Nordic lands and join the fight!
Vibes/world
After book 1 I was really curious to find out how Dawn and her friends would find a way out of their predicament, after being forced to leave the world they knew. What I love about sequels is that you get to explore new locations and spend more time with your favorite characters. I really enjoyed the world we were transported to this time around. It allowed for extra bonding, healing and exploration time, as they try to get their homes and loved ones back. Just like in the first book, the settings are very immersive and detailed. I felt like I lived in those Northern lands and wished I could pick up an axe and fight with them.
The MC/theme
The MC (Dawn, a young warrior) continues to work on her temper issues as she tries to heal. We know from book 1 what a journey she made already. And inner chaos has always been an issue for her. It’s surprising how much patience those around her have. Her best companions (one of them furry ;) are a beacon of light in a time she has to deal with loss and strange environments. I really felt for those around her as well. There were some heartbreaking moments in this book. Oh my!
Pacing/book 1
Knowing her goal from the start of the book (get her town back), really helped me to jump back into this world immediately. The second book was stronger for this reason. The first book has a slower build up before we discover what her game plan will be. Both books contain many surprises, so I’m not sure which one of them is my favorite. But this one definitely packs a punch! Luckily, it offers many moments where we can enjoy these Northern lands and feel the connection with nature and its mysteries, because that was a strength of the first book too!
Audience/genre
Ice Wolves felt more mature than the first book, so it's suited for NA and adult readers as well. Despite it being smut/spice-free; the MC’s behavior, the new side-characters, and the main themes, made it more appropriate for a wider audience. Both books contain violence and some gore, so it’s not for the fainthearted! Nor would I expect anything less in a historical warrior driven society.
Conclusion: What a ride! Glad I had a chance to be a part of this world. Sad the story is over. I’m very excited that the author might be working on a spin-off as we speak… Fingers crossed!
Official rating: 4,7 (Originality: 5, World: 5, Plot: 4,5, Text: 4, MC: 5)
Disclaimer: I received this book as an advanced reader copy to honestly review.
I loved returning to this Northern world with hardheaded warriors, folklore, fur, fangs and old clan feuds. This story makes you want to return to ancient Nordic lands and join the fight!
Vibes/world
After book 1 I was really curious to find out how Dawn and her friends would find a way out of their predicament, after being forced to leave the world they knew. What I love about sequels is that you get to explore new locations and spend more time with your favorite characters. I really enjoyed the world we were transported to this time around. It allowed for extra bonding, healing and exploration time, as they try to get their homes and loved ones back. Just like in the first book, the settings are very immersive and detailed. I felt like I lived in those Northern lands and wished I could pick up an axe and fight with them.
The MC/theme
The MC (Dawn, a young warrior) continues to work on her temper issues as she tries to heal. We know from book 1 what a journey she made already. And inner chaos has always been an issue for her. It’s surprising how much patience those around her have. Her best companions (one of them furry ;) are a beacon of light in a time she has to deal with loss and strange environments. I really felt for those around her as well. There were some heartbreaking moments in this book. Oh my!
Pacing/book 1
Knowing her goal from the start of the book (get her town back), really helped me to jump back into this world immediately. The second book was stronger for this reason. The first book has a slower build up before we discover what her game plan will be. Both books contain many surprises, so I’m not sure which one of them is my favorite. But this one definitely packs a punch! Luckily, it offers many moments where we can enjoy these Northern lands and feel the connection with nature and its mysteries, because that was a strength of the first book too!
Audience/genre
Ice Wolves felt more mature than the first book, so it's suited for NA and adult readers as well. Despite it being smut/spice-free; the MC’s behavior, the new side-characters, and the main themes, made it more appropriate for a wider audience. Both books contain violence and some gore, so it’s not for the fainthearted! Nor would I expect anything less in a historical warrior driven society.
Conclusion: What a ride! Glad I had a chance to be a part of this world. Sad the story is over. I’m very excited that the author might be working on a spin-off as we speak… Fingers crossed!
Official rating: 4,7 (Originality: 5, World: 5, Plot: 4,5, Text: 4, MC: 5)
Disclaimer: I received this book as an advanced reader copy to honestly review.
September 20, 2025
Ice Wolves by Amanda Sloothaak is a breath of fresh air—an immersive fantasy with carefully crafted characters who remain in your heart and mind. The story picks up seamlessly where Fire Fox left off. While the first book placed Dawn in the midst of great challenges, this second installment becomes her pathway to healing—and Sloothaak reminds us that healing is often anything but gentle.
I loved this beautiful story of authentic healing and personal growth. It’s refreshing to follow a strong yet flawed female protagonist whose struggles are raw and relatable. We are allowed to journey with Dawn through every step of her self-realization. Romance is not the centerpiece here—more of a quiet side note—which feels like a welcome change from the usual trend.
The characters each have distinct personalities and unique ways of coping with trauma. Amid the struggles, they continue to connect through loyalty, friendship, and platonic love. Dawn quickly became my favorite (alongside Ulf, the unforgettable wolf!).
The world-building is gorgeous. I was instantly transported to the crisp pine forests of Scandinavia. From the dwellings and landscapes to the weapons and tools, it’s clear the author has done her research, making the setting come alive in vivid detail.
I highly recommend Ice Wolves to any lover of fantasy. The characters will stay with you, the world will transport you, and the story will resonate long after you’ve turned the last page.
I loved this beautiful story of authentic healing and personal growth. It’s refreshing to follow a strong yet flawed female protagonist whose struggles are raw and relatable. We are allowed to journey with Dawn through every step of her self-realization. Romance is not the centerpiece here—more of a quiet side note—which feels like a welcome change from the usual trend.
The characters each have distinct personalities and unique ways of coping with trauma. Amid the struggles, they continue to connect through loyalty, friendship, and platonic love. Dawn quickly became my favorite (alongside Ulf, the unforgettable wolf!).
The world-building is gorgeous. I was instantly transported to the crisp pine forests of Scandinavia. From the dwellings and landscapes to the weapons and tools, it’s clear the author has done her research, making the setting come alive in vivid detail.
I highly recommend Ice Wolves to any lover of fantasy. The characters will stay with you, the world will transport you, and the story will resonate long after you’ve turned the last page.
Want to read
September 25, 2025RTC
September 20, 2025
Amanda Sloothaak’s Ice Wolves is an enthralling and deeply satisfying continuation of the Northern Lands saga, a sequel that not only builds upon the foundation of Fire Fox but elevates the story to new heights. From the very first page, I was swept back into Dawn’s world, where loyalty, loss, and the unyielding will to fight for home pulse through every chapter.
Sloothaak’s prose is vivid and lyrical, painting the frostbitten landscapes of the Northern Lands with a richness that feels both harsh and breathtaking. Her writing strikes a perfect balance between action-driven urgency and moments of quiet reflection, immersing the reader in a world inspired by Norse mythology that feels at once ancient and alive.
The characterization is where this novel shines brightest. Dawn is a heroine whose strength lies not only in her training and determination but also in her vulnerability—her grief, her doubts, and her resilience in the face of betrayal. The supporting cast, from steadfast Jyry to ever-loyal Ulf, are more than companions on a quest; they are complex, fully realized individuals whose personal arcs weave seamlessly into the broader tapestry of war and survival. The relationships—whether tested by trust, sharpened by loss, or strengthened through shared struggle—make every triumph and setback resonate on a profoundly emotional level.
Plot-wise, Ice Wolves is a masterclass in tension. The looming threat of the Red Lion Legion and the desperate push to rally allies propel the story forward at a brisk, relentless pace. Yet within the momentum, Sloothaak explores the gray areas of war—showing that even among enemies there are shades of humanity, and that courage often demands sacrifice. Each twist feels earned, each revelation both surprising and inevitable, leading to a climax that left me breathless and a conclusion that felt both satisfying and ripe for future exploration.
What impressed me most, however, was the way myth and reality interlace throughout the novel. The wolves are more than symbols of community or survival—they embody the heartbeat of the Northern Lands, a reminder that even in the darkest winters, there is strength to be found in unity and hope.
Ice Wolves is everything I look for in historical-inspired fantasy: richly detailed, emotionally resonant, and impossible to put down. Sloothaak has delivered a sequel that not only honors the spirit of Fire Fox but surpasses it. Fans of Norse mythology, gritty yet hopeful storytelling, and heroines with both fire and heart will find themselves captivated.
Highly recommended—I’ll be thinking about Dawn, Ulf, and the Northern Lands for a long time to come.
I received an ARC of the novel. These opinions are my own and are being expressed without bias.
Sloothaak’s prose is vivid and lyrical, painting the frostbitten landscapes of the Northern Lands with a richness that feels both harsh and breathtaking. Her writing strikes a perfect balance between action-driven urgency and moments of quiet reflection, immersing the reader in a world inspired by Norse mythology that feels at once ancient and alive.
The characterization is where this novel shines brightest. Dawn is a heroine whose strength lies not only in her training and determination but also in her vulnerability—her grief, her doubts, and her resilience in the face of betrayal. The supporting cast, from steadfast Jyry to ever-loyal Ulf, are more than companions on a quest; they are complex, fully realized individuals whose personal arcs weave seamlessly into the broader tapestry of war and survival. The relationships—whether tested by trust, sharpened by loss, or strengthened through shared struggle—make every triumph and setback resonate on a profoundly emotional level.
Plot-wise, Ice Wolves is a masterclass in tension. The looming threat of the Red Lion Legion and the desperate push to rally allies propel the story forward at a brisk, relentless pace. Yet within the momentum, Sloothaak explores the gray areas of war—showing that even among enemies there are shades of humanity, and that courage often demands sacrifice. Each twist feels earned, each revelation both surprising and inevitable, leading to a climax that left me breathless and a conclusion that felt both satisfying and ripe for future exploration.
What impressed me most, however, was the way myth and reality interlace throughout the novel. The wolves are more than symbols of community or survival—they embody the heartbeat of the Northern Lands, a reminder that even in the darkest winters, there is strength to be found in unity and hope.
Ice Wolves is everything I look for in historical-inspired fantasy: richly detailed, emotionally resonant, and impossible to put down. Sloothaak has delivered a sequel that not only honors the spirit of Fire Fox but surpasses it. Fans of Norse mythology, gritty yet hopeful storytelling, and heroines with both fire and heart will find themselves captivated.
Highly recommended—I’ll be thinking about Dawn, Ulf, and the Northern Lands for a long time to come.
I received an ARC of the novel. These opinions are my own and are being expressed without bias.
August 19, 2025
Ice Wolves picks up almost immediately after the events of Fire Fox (book one in the Myths of the Northen Lands duology) give or take a few months. Dawn's life is understandably unsettled and she wants to right so many wrongs, particularly in defence of her people, the Verja clan.
I love how Dawn and the other characters continue to be portrayed - they are all dealing with the aftermath of war and not necessarily doing it in the best of ways. Dawn, in particular, is a perfect example of a character who speaks first and thinks later but this only adds to her journey. I loved seeing Dawn grow in this book, trying to assimilate so much of what she believes alongside what she knows to be true.
I really enjoyed seeing the Northen Lands expand in this book, taking us to the Naotha village. I truly loved how the Naotha clan have been portrayed and enjoyed seeing the contrast between how they live their lives and the Verja clan live. A particular favourite part of the story for me was seeing how the Naotha (and Dawn) work with their companion wolves!
There are some truly heart-stopping moments in this book and I'm not ashamed to admit that I cried alongside some of the characters during one particular scene but the way Amanda presents the theme of grief is respectful and realistic.
Ice Wolves isn’t just a read where you sit back and watch the story play out, it really gets you thinking about bigger issues like war, peace, the meaning of friendship, hope for a better future. It is the second book in The Myths of the Northern Lands series and needs to be read after Fire Fox (book one).
*** I was given an advanced copy by the author in exchange for my honest review. ***
I love how Dawn and the other characters continue to be portrayed - they are all dealing with the aftermath of war and not necessarily doing it in the best of ways. Dawn, in particular, is a perfect example of a character who speaks first and thinks later but this only adds to her journey. I loved seeing Dawn grow in this book, trying to assimilate so much of what she believes alongside what she knows to be true.
I really enjoyed seeing the Northen Lands expand in this book, taking us to the Naotha village. I truly loved how the Naotha clan have been portrayed and enjoyed seeing the contrast between how they live their lives and the Verja clan live. A particular favourite part of the story for me was seeing how the Naotha (and Dawn) work with their companion wolves!
There are some truly heart-stopping moments in this book and I'm not ashamed to admit that I cried alongside some of the characters during one particular scene but the way Amanda presents the theme of grief is respectful and realistic.
Ice Wolves isn’t just a read where you sit back and watch the story play out, it really gets you thinking about bigger issues like war, peace, the meaning of friendship, hope for a better future. It is the second book in The Myths of the Northern Lands series and needs to be read after Fire Fox (book one).
*** I was given an advanced copy by the author in exchange for my honest review. ***
November 12, 2025
Truthfully, I had to sit on this review. I finished reading it and the feelings were all-consuming. I had so many things I wanted to share and say, but fear of spoilers. I decided to take a moment to step back before I gushed. The art Sloothaak gives with her novels is a journey of thoughts and feelings that should not be sullied with what happened here, who did what, or great idea of themes. So many novels nowadays can be summed up in tropes or key points to hook a reader in. Both "Fire Fox" and "Ice Wolves" have this bewitchment to them. They herald back to a time of good book being this "I want to just sit with this right now". These two novels are not just a "Well, that was nice", but instead are these soul touching and thought provoking novels. The question of is the world black or white is out the window as Sloothaak shows how gray every detail can be. War is not so clean cut, our destinies or motivations not always what we wish they were, people are just people and not so easily defined (especially with where they come from). Dawn is...Dawn is an exquisitely written character. Her complexity, spirit, falters, forwards, she drives these books and has easily become a favorite of mine throughout all novels.
Do I recommend "Ice Wolves" and "Fire Fox"? Definitely! Especially as a Winter read.
Do I recommend "Ice Wolves" and "Fire Fox"? Definitely! Especially as a Winter read.
October 12, 2025
Going into Ice Wolves, I was hoping Dawn might have come a little further in her arc this time. It could be that it’s part of her personality showing through, but a few of the arguments she has with her family feel like they could be solved through better communication. In their situation, I imagine they’d involve those they felt to be competent, and the only reason I could see why they might hesitate to involve Dawn is because she gives off mixed signals about what she wants.
I also wanted to see more of the myths mentioned in the story, and to understand why some characters seem to represent them. There are quite a few minor characters too, and at times I found them blending together a bit.
That said, Sloothak handles the fight scenes well. They’re clear and carry weight, and she doesn’t skip over the aftermath or how it affects others. I also liked how Dawn’s relationships with her family and friends were written. They quietly remind us how important it is to check in on the people we care about and look for ways to support them when things get difficult.
Huge thanks to Amanda for my ARCs. It’s been a joy to read what you’ve been working so hard on.
I also wanted to see more of the myths mentioned in the story, and to understand why some characters seem to represent them. There are quite a few minor characters too, and at times I found them blending together a bit.
That said, Sloothak handles the fight scenes well. They’re clear and carry weight, and she doesn’t skip over the aftermath or how it affects others. I also liked how Dawn’s relationships with her family and friends were written. They quietly remind us how important it is to check in on the people we care about and look for ways to support them when things get difficult.
Huge thanks to Amanda for my ARCs. It’s been a joy to read what you’ve been working so hard on.
October 27, 2025
Since I loved the frist book Fire Fox so much, I was more than excited that she choose me again to read her second book. Thank you for that and your trust.
The second book start right there where the first one left off. I could not wait to accompany Dawn through the journey and battle to get her home back. Throughout this journey they all lost a lot and war weighed heavy on them. I really loved how every single character reacted diffrently to the loss and the grieve.
And exactly like in the first book, the ending left me speechless....The only thing I can say. I still don't like him and no I am not saying any names. If you want to know pick it up.
The second book start right there where the first one left off. I could not wait to accompany Dawn through the journey and battle to get her home back. Throughout this journey they all lost a lot and war weighed heavy on them. I really loved how every single character reacted diffrently to the loss and the grieve.
And exactly like in the first book, the ending left me speechless....The only thing I can say. I still don't like him and no I am not saying any names. If you want to know pick it up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
Ice Wolves is a satisfying conclusion to the the story of Dawn, her external battle to reclaim her homeland from the Southern Warlord, Gabin, and her internal battle to allow herself to be open and vulnerable. Amanda creates a detailed, historical world, with a touch of fantasy, compelling characters and a message that is both timeless and timely - a better world is always one of unity.
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