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Winterborne: An Epic Fantasy
Not yet published
Expected 11 Aug 26Treacherous politics, deadly secrets, ancient magic, and forbidden The battle for ultimate power has begun in the first book of this epic fantasy.
Even before his mother’s mysterious murder, Henric Sabio never felt at home in his small town or at his private high school. He figured that was because of his cynical personality and tendency to daydream about dragons. But when a sudden supernatural attack transports him, his father, and his sister to a frozen magical world, Henric quickly learns he is different in ways he never imagined. He is Henric Iceheart, son of a disgraced prince and heir to a throne that desperately needs to restore the glories of a lost age.
Plunged into the elegant hierarchy of court life, Henric starts to discover hints of a secret history beneath the kingdom’s glistening surface. As he navigates ruthless nobles, sacred laws, and a rival family hungry for his family’s throne, his dormant powers—a deadly command of ice and a bond with an ice dragon long thought extinct—ignite. And soon rumors are spreading, naming Henric the prophesized Prince of Winter who will unite the land, albeit at a terrifying cost.
With help from gentle scholar Hundarian Silvermore and his ambitious twin sister, Kellenen, Henric attempts to prove himself worthy of this moniker and change his foretold fate. But his growing and complicated attraction to the Silvermore twins reveals long-buried prejudices that threaten his path to the crown. As rebellions rise and enemies close in, he must decide whether to claim his newfound destiny or reject it and face the consequences.
Some legacies save kingdoms. Others destroy them. Henric’s might be destined for both.
Tropes coming of age, hero’s journey, hidden identity, and forbidden love.
Even before his mother’s mysterious murder, Henric Sabio never felt at home in his small town or at his private high school. He figured that was because of his cynical personality and tendency to daydream about dragons. But when a sudden supernatural attack transports him, his father, and his sister to a frozen magical world, Henric quickly learns he is different in ways he never imagined. He is Henric Iceheart, son of a disgraced prince and heir to a throne that desperately needs to restore the glories of a lost age.
Plunged into the elegant hierarchy of court life, Henric starts to discover hints of a secret history beneath the kingdom’s glistening surface. As he navigates ruthless nobles, sacred laws, and a rival family hungry for his family’s throne, his dormant powers—a deadly command of ice and a bond with an ice dragon long thought extinct—ignite. And soon rumors are spreading, naming Henric the prophesized Prince of Winter who will unite the land, albeit at a terrifying cost.
With help from gentle scholar Hundarian Silvermore and his ambitious twin sister, Kellenen, Henric attempts to prove himself worthy of this moniker and change his foretold fate. But his growing and complicated attraction to the Silvermore twins reveals long-buried prejudices that threaten his path to the crown. As rebellions rise and enemies close in, he must decide whether to claim his newfound destiny or reject it and face the consequences.
Some legacies save kingdoms. Others destroy them. Henric’s might be destined for both.
Tropes coming of age, hero’s journey, hidden identity, and forbidden love.
- GenresFantasy
Kindle Edition
Expected publication August 11, 2026
About the author
J.D. Netto
20 books541 followersJ.D. Netto is a multi-genre bestselling author whose debut fantasy series, The Whispers of the Fallen, became an underground sensation upon its release. He is the founder of Saved by the Page, a movement that encourages readers to share how books have impacted their lives, with select stories compiled into an anthology published in 2018.
J.D. is also known for Henderbell: The Shadow of Saint Nicholas, a speculative fiction novel that explores the cursed bloodline of Father Christmas. His The Broken Miracle duology inspired an album featuring Paul Cardall, David Archuleta, and Tyler Glenn.
In 2022, he released The Echoes of Fallen Stars, a fallen angel fantasy centered on Lucifer’s lost gay son and the secret romance between Lucifer and the Creator. USA Today hailed the series as “a creation that every fantasy lover must have in their collection.”
Beyond fiction, J.D. has compiled his expertise in branding, storytelling, and design into You Are Not for Everybody: An Honest Conversation About Branding, Storytelling, and Narrative. Continuing to push creative boundaries, he is set to release The Other Side of the Ocean, a YA novel inspired by real events, tackling contemporary U.S. immigration issues.
In addition to writing, J.D. is the founder of J.D. Netto Creative, a boutique agency specializing in brand strategy, graphic design, and web design. His work has been featured in OK! Magazine and ABC News. He is represented by Susan Velazquez at JABberwocky Literary.
J.D. is also known for Henderbell: The Shadow of Saint Nicholas, a speculative fiction novel that explores the cursed bloodline of Father Christmas. His The Broken Miracle duology inspired an album featuring Paul Cardall, David Archuleta, and Tyler Glenn.
In 2022, he released The Echoes of Fallen Stars, a fallen angel fantasy centered on Lucifer’s lost gay son and the secret romance between Lucifer and the Creator. USA Today hailed the series as “a creation that every fantasy lover must have in their collection.”
Beyond fiction, J.D. has compiled his expertise in branding, storytelling, and design into You Are Not for Everybody: An Honest Conversation About Branding, Storytelling, and Narrative. Continuing to push creative boundaries, he is set to release The Other Side of the Ocean, a YA novel inspired by real events, tackling contemporary U.S. immigration issues.
In addition to writing, J.D. is the founder of J.D. Netto Creative, a boutique agency specializing in brand strategy, graphic design, and web design. His work has been featured in OK! Magazine and ABC News. He is represented by Susan Velazquez at JABberwocky Literary.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an aplha reader by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Winterbone by J.D. Netto is a dark fantasy novel that blends gothic atmosphere with a character-driven story about identity, grief, and transformation. Rather than relying on constant action, the book focuses on mood, emotion, and the inner struggles of its characters, creating a reading experience that feels almost like a dark fairy tale.
Atmosphere and Worldbuilding
One of the strongest elements ofWinterbone is its atmosphere. The world feels mysterious, cold, and ancient, as if hidden forces are always moving beneath the surface. The setting has a gothic tone that emphasizes haunting landscapes, shadows, and secrets that slowly unfold.
The worldbuilding doesn’t reveal everything at once. Instead, the story gradually introduces pieces of its mythology and magical elements, allowing readers to uncover the rules of the world alongside the characters.
Characters
The characters are written with a strong focus onemotional depth. Many of them struggle with loss, identity, and the fear of what they might become. Because of this, the story often explores internal conflict more than external battles.
This approach gives the narrative a very personal feel, even within its fantasy setting. Readers who enjoy character-focused stories may find themselves especially drawn to the emotional journeys in the book.
Themes
Without revealing plot details,Winterbone explores themes such as:
• The search for identity and belonging
• The impact of loss and memory
• The struggle between light and darkness
• Transformation and destiny
Overall Impression
Winterbone is a strong choice for readers who enjoy atmospheric dark fantasy with emotional storytelling and poetic prose. It may appeal especially to those who like fantasy that feels introspective and mysterious rather than purely action-driven.
Overall rating: ★★★★★ 5/5
A beautifully atmospheric fantasy that stands out for its mood, emotional depth, and gothic storytelling style.
Winterbone by J.D. Netto is a dark fantasy novel that blends gothic atmosphere with a character-driven story about identity, grief, and transformation. Rather than relying on constant action, the book focuses on mood, emotion, and the inner struggles of its characters, creating a reading experience that feels almost like a dark fairy tale.
Atmosphere and Worldbuilding
One of the strongest elements ofWinterbone is its atmosphere. The world feels mysterious, cold, and ancient, as if hidden forces are always moving beneath the surface. The setting has a gothic tone that emphasizes haunting landscapes, shadows, and secrets that slowly unfold.
The worldbuilding doesn’t reveal everything at once. Instead, the story gradually introduces pieces of its mythology and magical elements, allowing readers to uncover the rules of the world alongside the characters.
Characters
The characters are written with a strong focus onemotional depth. Many of them struggle with loss, identity, and the fear of what they might become. Because of this, the story often explores internal conflict more than external battles.
This approach gives the narrative a very personal feel, even within its fantasy setting. Readers who enjoy character-focused stories may find themselves especially drawn to the emotional journeys in the book.
Themes
Without revealing plot details,Winterbone explores themes such as:
• The search for identity and belonging
• The impact of loss and memory
• The struggle between light and darkness
• Transformation and destiny
Overall Impression
Winterbone is a strong choice for readers who enjoy atmospheric dark fantasy with emotional storytelling and poetic prose. It may appeal especially to those who like fantasy that feels introspective and mysterious rather than purely action-driven.
Overall rating: ★★★★★ 5/5
A beautifully atmospheric fantasy that stands out for its mood, emotional depth, and gothic storytelling style.
Review of advance copy received from Author
J. D. Netto is writing the bisexual fantasies we all need. The characters are unique and memorable. The plot twists were really good. However, what sets this book apart is the writing style. Netto masterfully puts the readers in the shoes of the protagonist, allowing us to discover in real time. At times, it’s a confusing, but I believe that’s intentional because WHO WOULDNT BE CONFUSED AFTER BEING RIPPED INTO A FANTASY WORLD HAUNTED BY A DEAD WINTER DRAGON?! I had a great time reading it, and I’m excited to see where and what Netto does next. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great read, can't wait for it to be officially released so you all can read it too! This was an exciting fantasy with characters go through realistic personal dilemas that helps build the story and keeps the momentum. Stay tuned for an official review with all my thoughts and opinions!
March 3, 2026
OMG!!!!, there’s no better way to describe this book, such an amazing world and complex characters, a great book to binge tbh
Review of advance copy received from Author
I may be biased, but hey! ;)
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews