What happens when a reluctant spy discovers his greatest mission is protecting the woman who stole his heart?
Cole Tanniyn thought his days of danger were over when he traded his sword for a lute. But when the king sends him north as an undercover minstrel to investigate mysterious disappearances from the infamous Ice Island prison, Cole's carefully ordered world changes—especially when Mistel Wepp, the fiery-haired songstress he's falling for, secretly follows him into mortal peril.
She was supposed to stay safe. He was supposed to stay focused. Neither of them expected to fall this hard.
Posing as traveling performers with Kurtz, a gruff former prisoner seeking justice, Cole and Mistel must navigate dangerous taverns thick with secrets while their fake "cousin" relationship becomes increasingly difficult—especially when every shared glance and gentle touch threatens to reveal their true feelings. But when Cole's personal quest to visit his imprisoned uncle becomes entangled with a deadly conspiracy, and Mistel's bold curiosity lands her in the hands of human traffickers, everything changes.
Now Cole must choose: the mission that could free an innocent man... or the woman he loves.
As a web of corruption reaches the highest levels of power, and villains from Cole's traumatic past close in, he faces an impossible choice. With Mistel's life in danger and dark family secrets threatening to surface, Cole must find the courage to fight for love—even if it means defying orders and confronting the demons of his past.
Perfect for fans of the sweet romance and swashbuckling adventure, this story weaves together tender love, heart-pounding action, and the kind of connection that transforms two hearts. Because sometimes the greatest adventure is finding someone worth everything...
Jill Williamson is a multi-passionate creative who loves the arts. She’s written over thirty books for readers of all ages and is best known for her Blood of Kings fantasy series, two of which won Christy Awards and made VOYA magazine’s Best Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror list. She produces films with her husband and teaches about writing at conferences. Visit her at www.jillwilliamson.com.
Okay, this was pretty amazing! I was really excited to jump back into Cole and Mistel’s story, and it totally delivered! Seeing familiar characters pop up again and how their stories connected made this one even better. I was hooked early on and kept reading because I had to know how it would all turn out!
The king sends Cole undercover on a risky mission, and things quickly get messy when Mistel tags along and ends up right in the middle of it. Cole and Mistel have a past full of unfinished conversations and confusing feelings, which makes working together even harder. Mistel has to pretend to be Cole’s cousin, and Cole is constantly trying to keep her safe while staying focused on the mission. As the story unfolds, the danger ramps up and secrets start coming out that change everything!
This was such a page turner. Romance readers will love it. The chemistry between Cole and Mistel was so good and kept me invested the whole time. By the end, I was already excited for the next book, especially because I really want to know more about Kurtz. He is such an interesting character!
Giving this one 4.5 rounded to a 5 star read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Y’all, it’s always fun getting to dive back into the world of The Blood of Kings and revisit a place that has become familiar yet explore more people’s stories and an expanding setting. After reading SQUIRE OF TRUTH from the BoK: Legends series and was introduced to Cole and Mistel’s dynamic duo on a fantasy/murder mystery/romance adventure, I was hooked on these two. And now their story continues in an ~entire series~ of fantasy spies.
I am delighted.
SHADOW OF ICE ISLAND is the first, and it at once swept me off to a wintry story not only of hidden corruption, crime busts, and blooming sweet romance, but also of facing deep-set fears and traumatic pasts with courage and truth.
If you’re looking for emotional depth and tension, it’s here. If you’re looking for bad guys getting their butts kicked, it’s here. If you’re looking for young hearts growing stronger together with spellbinding music, espionage, sleuthing, swordfights, prison breaks, and a double measure of ‘his freckles are adorable’ and ‘touch her and you will die’, it’s here.
Jill Williamson crafts a well paced adventure of unfurling mysteries, immersive worldbuilding, endearing character, and engaging action.
And now that the great Kurtz has met his match (on many levels), I’m eager to see what happens on the next mission.
If you're looking for nostalgia + a fresh story in the land of Er-Rets, this book is for you! I loved the characters of the original Blood of Kings series and I wanted to see the rest of Cole and Mistel's story, and Shadow of Ice Island did not disappoint! The characters are amazing, the worldbuilding is (as always) on point, and I loved the winter vibes. Definitely recommend for all romantasy readers and for Christian fiction readers who want faith and an enthralling plot!
Cole and Mistel return epically! Cole and Mistel are so adorable and I absolutely loved seeing them grow, especially Cole, who had to choose to embrace the truth over lies. As for Anna and Kurtz, their parts were really interesting. I am not going to reveal anything, but there are hints at more, possibly in this series or more books. The plot itself was fast paced and kept me guessing, even surprising me a few times. I read Lord of Winter in preparation for this, and even though you don't have to, I feel like the plot was enhanced knowing what I do now. Honestly though, Cole's character arc carried this book to a 5 for me. His struggles were so relatable, and the romance was so beautiful, I just had to rate it higher! I only had two small annoyances: 1. Kurtz's speech tics got on my nerves after a while. It felt overdone. 2. Mistel's whole, "I was in a cage and now must be free" is such an overdone Christian fiction character development that I've been wondering if there's some sort of manual of repetition out there. That being said, I can put those both aside because I still loved Mistel and Kurtz! Content: Lustful encounters, lightly described before being cut off. PG violence and kissing. No language. Light drinking.
Squire of Truth is where you first met Cole and Mistel. Cole and Mistel's story continues in Shadow of Ice Island as Cole and a few other men embark on a mission as the king's spies. I enjoyed learning Cole's and Mistel's backstories. What a fun fantasy read with romance, faith elements, danger, and surprises. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you remember the book Squire of Truth, this book starts up where that one left off and then overlaps the books following it in the previous series.
I really do enjoy these Christian medieval fantasy series with no spice romance. I feel like I’ve been waiting forever to see Cole and Mistel again. It was interesting to see a different angle of events from the book Lord of Winter.
Cole and Mistel are so sweet together. Pretending to be cousins singing together in a band while Cole and Kurtz are spies for the King. I really enjoyed the addition of the perspectives of Kurtz and Zanna and the tension and banter between them. The dynamic of this group made for some great reading, the continued slow burn romance for Cole and Mistel settled really well, and the action, danger, adventure, revelation of secrets, and political intrigue kept me flying through the pages. I can’t wait to see what comes next for this group! The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Content warnings: violence and fighting, kidnapping, prison, mind control
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I was thrilled to continue the storyline of Cole, Mistel, and Kurtz in the world of Er'Rets! Jill Williamson is a master at character building. This world is full of so many interesting characters with true to life hurts and hang-ups. Tagging along to see them grow, develop, and embrace redemption mid-adventure is pure magic!
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review.
Joining Cole, Mistel, Kurtz, and Zanna in the first installment of The King’s Spies was such a delight! I’ve been looking forward to this series since I learned of its conception. The Shadow of Ice Island follows the events of the Blood of Kings trilogy and is the first book in the Blood of Kings Legends. This was a fun, dashing adventure with veins of mystery, romance, and nostalgia. Jill Williamson does a wonderful job of immersing the reader in the story world so you feel as if you’re by the characters’ sides and in their ears the whole time. It was a delightful read with more adventures to come!
I’ve been a long time fan of pretty much all of Williamson’s books and she’s a masterful author. The Shadow of Ice Island has all of the feels of the Blood of Kings with new characters and new mysteries. Cole has grown on me over the years since his introduction and it was exciting to see him come into his own with some underdog characters in an unlikely found family. Mistel is very different from most FMCs I’ve read before and I wasn’t sure if I was bought in to her personality for awhile, but I’ve found that she is a brilliant character, even if not for everyone. Kurtz was the shining star in my opinion and I adored seeing a character who took so much heat in the main series, get to have his moment where he still makes mistakes, but he grows through them, instead of faceplanting. I’m curious to see how his interactions with Zanna develop throughout the series.
This was a four star and not a five star read for me for a few reasons. The Blood of Kings was so masterfully developed and clearly well-marinated and this book felt a little rushed and underbaked, as if, with more time, it would have matured with clear shine and its own character, but it was on a deadline. There were times that I felt the plot was dragging the characters forward, rather than the characters driving the plot—I was scratching my head a few times over how quickly things were decided in a way that felt like we were doing dot-to-dot rather than watching real people making difficult decisions. I don’t often lose track of characters, but there were so many new characters popping in and out of this story with full names and descriptions and with the connections between them not quite clear, that I quite forgot who multiple were. It was just a lot to keep track of amidst an already twisty mystery that I was struggling to wrap my head around. The mystery made sense by the end but making the connections from how one character was in league with another felt like a stretch sometimes. As a reader who’s normally pretty quick with these things, if I can’t follow the string, I usually suspect it needed a little more fleshing to really feel believe-able. Finally, this was my personal preference but I liked how light and tasteful the romance was in the main series and I wanted to see more plot development here (depth, not character dragging) which I would have happily sacrificed about half of the romance for. I understand romance was one of the main elements but I love this story world for its world too, not only characters’ relationships. In conjunction with this point, especially in light of the upcoming books, I would have been happy to see Cole and Mistel take longer to hit their big growth arc moment. I didn’t feel like we worked hard enough for it and they both had so much resolution in the end so quickly from their respective difficulties and traumatic pasts—I would’ve liked to have seen a more gradual arc. I don’t know what the next growth step looks like for each of them for the next books at this point.
All in all, still really lovely and I would recommend (though for those who haven’t read the original series, this may not be the place to start). The comments above are very specific things that I apparently had a lot to say about(!), but so many of the elements of the book were so well done and fun to read! I received an ARC copy of this book (for which I’m extremely thankful) and all opinions are my own.
Jill Williamson always writes a fantastic adventure with all the good banter and plot twists, and Shadow of Ice Island is no exception. Really enjoyed this next chapter in the saga!
~~I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
This is the type of book that reminds me that not every story needs to be world-shattering or life-changing to be a good book. Sometimes stories just need to be fun, and Shadow of Ice Island is so much fun.
I love that this book continues Cole, Mistel, and Kurtz’s adventures from Squire of Truth. It’s fun to see what they are up to next and how their mission for the king ties into the timeline of the other Blood of Kings: Legends books. Even though it’s written like a sequel, I think it could be read without reading the other series, but readers will appreciate the characters and events more if they’re familiar with what has taken place before in the world of Er’Rets.
I especially enjoyed getting more about Kurtz and his backstory. It was fun to get a few chapters from his point of view and I’m intrigued about what will happen next when it comes to him and a certain female bodyguard.
While this book is mainly a fantasy story, there is also an element of mystery blended into the fantasy setting, which I think gave this story an extra edge. There is espionage and heist planning and all sorts of spy fun alongside the magic and sword fights.
Shadow of Ice Island is another excellent addition to the world of Er’Rets and I’m looking forward to following these characters into their next adventure.
~Thank you to the publisher for providing an early digital copy for review.~
At first, I was bummed. We started the story as if THE SQUIRE OF TRUTH hadn’t even happened. It was difficult for me to believe Mistel would have run after Cole so unprepared, too.
But then Kurtz started taking some of the narrative, and the mystery began to play out. Cole and Mistel have to learn to trust Arman when they can’t rescue each other. And it’s going to be interesting to see the romance for Anna and Kurtz evolve.
I couldn’t put it down for the last third. A few surprises and perhaps a little bit of an easy finish at the prison, but it still satisfied me. Definitely has me eager for what will happen next.
Though this is a separate series, this book is a direct sequel to "Squire of Truth". I felt it could have used a little more background information to help us review as I was a bit unclear on what exactly the mission of the main characters was. This book does not stand on its own, so if you have not read the Blood of Kings triology, you will be lost. If you have, however, and you liked it, you will probably enjoy this book as well. I did find the characters more likeable in this book. They were relatable and sometimes funny. I especially enjoyed Kurtz's perspective. One thing that felt weird to me was when a large group of characters showed up to the scene and the author listed each one by first and last names. I found this unnecessary because all these names meant nothing me as the reader since they hadn't been developed as characters. The plot was pretty simple and predictable, but it was still a fun adventure to read. The pacing was very good and the action kept me engaged. Any danger was fairly short-lived, so it didn't have much of a sense of peril. I personally would have appreciated a little more intensity and a little less romance. However, it was probably meant for a younger audience. I appreciated that this book was clean and had positive themes. I think it would be appropriate for middle school or older. Overall, it was a good read and I always enjoy Jill Williamson's writing.
I love the slow burn between Cole and Mistel. This story has it all. Action, adventure, spying, as well as new characters. I really enjoyed learning more of Cole’s story. I can’t wait for the next book in this new series.
*Mistel flummoxing Cole (and, really, everyone else) with her flighty antics that make their plan even better. It's super adorable. I also love how her impulsivity is both a strength and a drawback.
*Cole being protective and also genuinely appreciative of Mistel and what she brings to the team.
*Cole's character growth in general. I love how he's so much more confident in this story, and I have always loved how he powers through his insecurities and doesn't let them keep him from his mission. He is such a solid and complex character and I love him!
*Kurtz and Zanna's banter was THE ABSOLUTE BEST! I am genuinely excited to read their story!
*Achan's shameless meddling. (Love him!) I love how he checks in on Cole and also wants the gossip about him and Mistel.
I would have liked to have a little more development of Mistel and Cole's relationship. There's plenty of flirting, and plenty of appreciating each other's strengths, which was great. They both shared some vulnerability from their past. However, I felt Cole's fears and vulnerability as something he wrestled with constantly and had to overcome in order to do his job. When he told his story it made sense and I felt how hard it was for him to share it. I had a harder time connecting with Mistel's story. I would have liked to see a little bit more vulnerability connected with her past, but she kept it kind of close to her chest and I would have liked to have felt her struggles a bit more before reading about them in her story to Cole.
I did love where they ended up and how they made a good team (when Mistel wasn't jumping ahead). The escape scene at the end was brilliant and I love how they both worked to help each other.
The description of the settings and story world were, as always, amazing. I really felt the brutally cold winter and the warm tavern vibes. I liked that we got little peaks into Kurtz and Zanna's POV's as well.
Five stars. Usually I end my reviews with this, but I can’t wait this time. This book was STELLAR and I’m now even more excited for the rest of the King’s Spies series, especially seeing what becomes of Kurtz! I have never been so invested in that particular character, haha.
Cole is such a lovable character. I just can’t NOT love him! Cute feels like some insulting to describe him as, but that’s about what sums it up. He and Mistel are just so good together and everything about their relationship is just chef’s kiss. I also loved seeing Tsaftown from a different storyline/POV. Lord Eric and Lady Viola were so amazing in their own book; it was interesting to see how other characters viewed and interacted with them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Have you ever read a book and NOT wanted to leave the story world it was set in? Well, that’s what’s happening to me! Wow! This is book is the first book in a new series by Jill Williamson, but it reconnects with characters from her Blood of Kings: Legends series. The story intermixes the Legends series in such a way that I now feel like I’m getting a fuller point of view, and I’m getting to see what happened to some of the characters. I love how this author weaves everything together and continues the story along. It's a magical story about relationships, friendships, and finding worth. It's also a story about righting wrongs and conquering evil. It left you with hope for adventure and justice to come. There were some profound moments when I found myself holding my breath because I wasn’t sure what would happen. As a reader, I was captivated by all the fantasy. An author who can create a wonderful world that captures your mind and takes you on a journey into the unknown is an author I will read more from. Jill Williamson is a fantastic, creative writer. Her characters come alive with passion and boldness. There is great dialogue that moves the story along, and stunning imagery. If you want to get lost in a magical world that will make your heart pound and you find it hard to breathe, then this is the book for you. I must warn you, once you start, you might not want to put it down until you finish the whole book! I was given this book by the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Returning to a series like Blood of Kings Legends is always such a reader’s delight. In her book, Shadow of Ice Island, a follow-up to Squire of Truth, Jill Williamson once again delivers a compelling narrative. Continuing the saga where Cole and Mistel left off was nothing short of thrilling. While I haven’t read the other books related to this series—and had moments where I sensed I was missing a bit of history—it didn’t take away from the enjoyment of the story.
The world-building is so deliciously detailed, making you feel part of the crew instead of an observer. Their spying mission for the king added a pulsing element of suspense to the plot. Without a doubt, the book's best feature is the way its characters evolve and relate to each other. The colorful dialogue and quick pace of the book were so captivating that I eagerly awaited getting lost in it every day.
The story is unpredictable, fueling your curiosity, while also satisfying and building excitement for the next book. This beautiful medieval story blends action, suspense, and romance with just a dash of fantasy, making it worthwhile on so many levels.
I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Hello Mistel and Cole, we've been waiting for more of your story...Shadow of Ice Island is an immediate jump back into the world of E'Rets and the love story of our protagonists. This time however, Cole and Mistel are working alongside Kurtz Chazir as spies for Achan Cham. Not only do we learn more of Cole and Mistel's story but we catch glimpses into Kurtz's backstory. I am intrigued and ready to hear more about the man Kurtz Chazir is becoming!
Shadow of Ice Island was another rollicking ride through E'Rets. Lots of action and intrigue. What I found I greatly enjoyed throughout Shadow of Ice Island were the trails of breadcrumbs and nods to stories both past and present. I was able to get just enough from all the story arcs that I had answers (finally!) and I also had just enough clues to know I need the next book in The King's Spies series!
I was excited to read Shadow of Ice Island and get to hear more of Cole and Mistel’s story. Jill Williamson has done such a great job creating this world that I want to return to it again and again.
We left Cole and Mistel behind in Squire of Truth, and I was truly wanting more. So, getting the chance to spend more time with them was a treat. I would recommend reading the other books from Blood of Kings before jumping into The King’s Spies.
Cole is sent on a mission as the King’s spy. But Mistel will not be left behind. She follows along and inserts herself in the middle of their mission. The band is all back together, bringing brilliant ballads and laughs along the way. Cole and Kurtz must accomplish the mission and try to keep Mistel out of the way. Diving into the backstory of the characters was what I needed. I look forward to book two in this series.
This romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
The Christian elements are allegorical and portrayed beautifully.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Oh, how I’ve missed these two! Cole and Mistel are back for another adventure and this one is a doozy.
He’s on a secret mission from the king (shhh, don’t tell anyone—it’s a secret!) and she refuses to be left behind.
He feels inadequate. She feels he needs her. Both travel a long way both physically and emotionally.
Kurtz is along for the journey and we meet up with Zanna, someone from his past and there’s something very interesting about her.
Will this band of warriors, kind of, complete the king’s task? Will they all make it out alive? And just how many secrets will come to light in this book?
You’ll have to read it to find out, but you’ll be very glad you did!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend!
Cole must choose: the mission that could free an innocent man... or the woman he loves.
Really enoyed my first Jill Williamson book! Loved the mix of romance and adventure. The romance is there, but the plot definitely comes first! This is the first in a spin off series so I could tell that there were lots of backstories to lots of characters that I didn’t know. It read fine as a standalone but I would probably recommend reading the other series first if possible. I know I certainly want to go back and read it now! Would definitely recommend!
Genre: Fantasy (no spice)
Book 1 in the King's Spies
Favorite character: Cole (MMC)
Favorite scene: the sideplot with Lord Livna and Viola
I love being an advanced reader for this author because her books NEVER disappoint. This new series is going to be a fun one because I get to stay with Mistel and Cole and see their love develop more. :) Kurtz is also a fun character that I am falling more in love with and can't wait to see how Armon uses him and if he falls in love, too. This first book in the series takes us back to Ice Island to uncover missing prisoners and plots against the new king. Lots of interesting developments and a new character we don't expect joins the crew. I didn't want it to end and can't wait for book two!
In Shadow of Ice Island, Jill Williamson smoothly fills in previous character and story information for new and returning readers. In the midst of an epic fantasy plot, we find characters to enjoy and engage with. Kurtz is steadily developed throughout the story into a very likeable character. I enjoyed revisiting characters from previous stories who had roles that added to the story. Overall story goal was clear with a logical sequence of events. The author provides a satisfying ending with a skillful lead in toward the next book. I received an advance reader copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Cole is on a secret mission for the king, along with his friend, Kurtz. Mistel decides to follow him, as she feels he needs her help. Kurtz is also trying to find out who killed the previous king, and exonerate himself from any lingering suspicions, after his incarceration on Ice Island. Some characters from their pasts reappear - Cole’s hated stepbrother, and Zanna, a half giantess soldier whom Kurtz knew in the past. Arman has changed our friends, however, and is continuing to do so. Can they navigate all these webs? I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.
BRAVO! Williamson has crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. These characters will linger long after turning the final page.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian fantasy.
DISCLAIMER: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Welcome back to Er'rets! While previous knowledge of this world is not absolutely required, I recommend reading the original "Blood of Kings" trilogy and "Squire of Truth" in order to have the best context for this adventure.
The books is perfect for fantasy lovers who enjoy a mystery and espionage alongside character growth and endearing romance (no spice). Jill continues to welcome us into the world of Er'rets and the Christian faith undercurrent that we know and love in these novels. I've enjoyed getting to know different regions and cultures through the "Legends" books and the first installment of "Kings Spies" continues this trend as we get to know more about Taftstown, Ice Island and The North. Here we see familiar characters grow and learn to work together, as well as meeting fun new characters along the way. If you like lighthearted adventure, this book is for you!
I loved being back in Cole and Mistel’s story. This book picks up right where Squire of Truth left off. If you haven’t read that book I highly recommend reading it before this one. Things will make a lot more sense.
This book was really intriguing dealing with topics like spies, corruption, human trafficking, wrongful conviction, and so much more. I love the pursuit of justice in this book from small interactions to much larger plots. I also really enjoyed seeing the character growth of Cole. He defeated a giant but fear still plagued him. Did he overcome his giant due to his strength and the help of Arman or just dumb luck? This is a big topic that Cole struggles with throughout the book. He also comes face to face with his past and a new giant he needs to overcome.
There were so many great things about this book. I truly enjoyed the journey that you went on with uncovering the secrets and corruption of Ice Island. There’s a lot more that happens and it’s a mysterious adventure that keeps you reading.
I received this book from the author but this review is my own personal thoughts and feelings about this book.
First book in awhile that I’ve been able to take my time and savor the story. I loved getting to see the connections with the Blood of Kings Legends series!