What do you think?
Rate this book
The Flame in the Frost : A Dark Epic Fantasy Romance
When a cursed Winter Prince and a royal guard with a forgotten bloodline are bound by an ancient prophecy, they become the only ones who can stop a rising enemy—if their forbidden love doesn’t destroy them first.
They tried to silence their bond, but the gods had already sung their fate into the heavens.
In the frostbitten kingdom of Skadgard, Sylvanna Isenwulf has finally claimed her mantle as Captain of the Guard, but her loyalty to the crown is tested when Prince Jökullson “Jack” Drakmyr—her best friend and heir to the Frostbound throne—is forced into an arranged betrothal with a princess he’s never met and an alliance that could ignite war across the northern realms.
Ordered to accompany Jack on a dangerous envoy through the cursed Wildlands, Sylvanna is thrust into a perilous journey filled with ancient magic and deadly creatures. But it is another kind of danger that threatens to unravel their friendship...
Bound by an invisible tether that has pulled at their hearts since childhood, Sylvanna and Jack must not only confront their deepest secrets and darkest desires but choose between the love consuming them at their core or the duty binding them to their kingdom.
And when a ruthless enemy rises, threatening to tear Sylvanna and Jack apart, The Frost Prince must decide to either honor the crown that has caged him his whole life or unleash the deadly monster dormant in his veins—a winter storm fiercer than anything Skadgard has ever faced.
Enough to topple kingdoms. Enough to shatter fate.
The Flame in the Frost is a Norse-inspired Friends to Lovers Jack Frost reimagining romantasy intended for readers 18+. Reader discretion is advised.
They tried to silence their bond, but the gods had already sung their fate into the heavens.
In the frostbitten kingdom of Skadgard, Sylvanna Isenwulf has finally claimed her mantle as Captain of the Guard, but her loyalty to the crown is tested when Prince Jökullson “Jack” Drakmyr—her best friend and heir to the Frostbound throne—is forced into an arranged betrothal with a princess he’s never met and an alliance that could ignite war across the northern realms.
Ordered to accompany Jack on a dangerous envoy through the cursed Wildlands, Sylvanna is thrust into a perilous journey filled with ancient magic and deadly creatures. But it is another kind of danger that threatens to unravel their friendship...
Bound by an invisible tether that has pulled at their hearts since childhood, Sylvanna and Jack must not only confront their deepest secrets and darkest desires but choose between the love consuming them at their core or the duty binding them to their kingdom.
And when a ruthless enemy rises, threatening to tear Sylvanna and Jack apart, The Frost Prince must decide to either honor the crown that has caged him his whole life or unleash the deadly monster dormant in his veins—a winter storm fiercer than anything Skadgard has ever faced.
Enough to topple kingdoms. Enough to shatter fate.
The Flame in the Frost is a Norse-inspired Friends to Lovers Jack Frost reimagining romantasy intended for readers 18+. Reader discretion is advised.
582 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Olivia Boothe
22 books391 followersREAL LOVE AS IT IS. MESSY. COMPLICATED. AND SINFULLY ADDICTIVE.
Olivia Boothe has always been drawn to stories that blur the line between devotion and destruction. She writes emotionally charged romance infused with dark fantasy, magic, and high-stakes desire—where love is never simple, heroes are beautifully flawed, and passion can be as dangerous as it is intoxicating.
Her novels are known for their deep, layered plots and slow-burn intensity, because for Olivia, romance isn’t about the first kiss or the happily ever after—it’s about everything that happens in between: the longing, the sacrifice, and the moments that change you forever.
When she isn’t writing, Olivia can be found devouring books across every genre, binge-watching her latest TV obsession, or hosting Tuesday-night wine and junk-TV therapy with her girlfriends. She lives in Northern New Jersey with her husband, three sons, and her mini Aussie writing companion, Rosie.
Olivia Boothe has always been drawn to stories that blur the line between devotion and destruction. She writes emotionally charged romance infused with dark fantasy, magic, and high-stakes desire—where love is never simple, heroes are beautifully flawed, and passion can be as dangerous as it is intoxicating.
Her novels are known for their deep, layered plots and slow-burn intensity, because for Olivia, romance isn’t about the first kiss or the happily ever after—it’s about everything that happens in between: the longing, the sacrifice, and the moments that change you forever.
When she isn’t writing, Olivia can be found devouring books across every genre, binge-watching her latest TV obsession, or hosting Tuesday-night wine and junk-TV therapy with her girlfriends. She lives in Northern New Jersey with her husband, three sons, and her mini Aussie writing companion, Rosie.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 487 reviews
June 29, 2026
”But desire— real, maddening desire— is never a gentle thing. It’s a war, a storm. And I, fool that i was, stood in the eye of it with no armor and no intention to run.”
my second five star read from Olivia Boothe, she seems to write dark romantasy stories that completely consume me. the plot was fast paced, with intricate world building/ magic and a slow burn, forbidden friends to lovers romance that had me in an entire death grip.
”No matter what was left of me after this ordeal, even if it meant dragging myself across the floor with nothing but splintered will and shattered bones, I would not let them harm her. Not while there was breath in my body.”
i loved both characters, Sylvi was just as capable of holding her own as Jack was in battle due to her being captain of the guard. usually, i’d prefer for there to be something to show the duration of a friendship like theirs, but i didn’t need it here cause you could FEEL how much they loved and cared for each other. there wasn’t a lack of hurt / comfort either despite the two being skilled fighters and i really loved the tender moments where their concern could seep through.. the yearning was everything. i also adored Jack’s best friend Ravin and his friendship with Sylvi too.
”True character is not revealed when the path is bright and easy. It is revealed when you walk blind through darkness, when every choice is a risk taken and every step forward feels like treading on thin ice.”
as a Jack Frost retelling, i was so curious about the use of Jack’s magic and how there seems to be an underlying darkness to him besides the ice. Sylvi’s background took a turn towards the end, that set up something that i don’t fully know how to feel about but i am 100% sure the drama will be worth it. Jack’s mother was the biggest obstacle for them at every turn, what Jack had to endure had me raging. every second of this book had me enthralled, can’t wait for the next one!
↠ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Victory Editing Co-op for the arc, all opinions are my own.
my second five star read from Olivia Boothe, she seems to write dark romantasy stories that completely consume me. the plot was fast paced, with intricate world building/ magic and a slow burn, forbidden friends to lovers romance that had me in an entire death grip.
”No matter what was left of me after this ordeal, even if it meant dragging myself across the floor with nothing but splintered will and shattered bones, I would not let them harm her. Not while there was breath in my body.”
i loved both characters, Sylvi was just as capable of holding her own as Jack was in battle due to her being captain of the guard. usually, i’d prefer for there to be something to show the duration of a friendship like theirs, but i didn’t need it here cause you could FEEL how much they loved and cared for each other. there wasn’t a lack of hurt / comfort either despite the two being skilled fighters and i really loved the tender moments where their concern could seep through.. the yearning was everything. i also adored Jack’s best friend Ravin and his friendship with Sylvi too.
”True character is not revealed when the path is bright and easy. It is revealed when you walk blind through darkness, when every choice is a risk taken and every step forward feels like treading on thin ice.”
as a Jack Frost retelling, i was so curious about the use of Jack’s magic and how there seems to be an underlying darkness to him besides the ice. Sylvi’s background took a turn towards the end, that set up something that i don’t fully know how to feel about but i am 100% sure the drama will be worth it. Jack’s mother was the biggest obstacle for them at every turn, what Jack had to endure had me raging. every second of this book had me enthralled, can’t wait for the next one!
↠ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Victory Editing Co-op for the arc, all opinions are my own.
Want to Read
March 31, 2026Received an ARC copy… a Jack Frost retelling!! A dark romantasy with a slow burn that tortures, forbidden love, intense yearning, and a badass FMC—see a pattern here?? These are my absolute weakness!
May 6, 2026
Thank you to Olivia Boothe, Three Brothers Press, and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
3 / 5 ⭐️
I had such a fun time reading this, and I was so overjoyed when I got the ARC! Like, a Norse Inspired, Jack Frost retelling, hello?? How could I not?
I loved the worldbuilding and the aesthetic of this book so much! Olivia Boothe's writing felt very magical and it was so easy to get sucked into this fantasy world!
I really enjoyed it being heavier on the romance than the fantasy, too.
I loved Jack and Sylvi alone, but I CRAVED each time they were together on page. I felt that they really meshed well together! Their chemistry was sooo good.
That being said, I found the first 30% of the book a bit slow to get through.. as well as the romance between Jack and Sylvi very "push and pull." Don't get me wrong, it was still enjoyable, but I did find myself struggling to push through, and groaning each time they pulled away from each other or something forced them away from each other.
And the ENDING? Such a diabolical cliffhanger UGH I must read the next book!
♡ pre-read ♡
A JACK FROST RETELLING omgggggg. I live for this, hehe. I'm so excited!!
3 / 5 ⭐️
I had such a fun time reading this, and I was so overjoyed when I got the ARC! Like, a Norse Inspired, Jack Frost retelling, hello?? How could I not?
I loved the worldbuilding and the aesthetic of this book so much! Olivia Boothe's writing felt very magical and it was so easy to get sucked into this fantasy world!
I really enjoyed it being heavier on the romance than the fantasy, too.
I loved Jack and Sylvi alone, but I CRAVED each time they were together on page. I felt that they really meshed well together! Their chemistry was sooo good.
That being said, I found the first 30% of the book a bit slow to get through.. as well as the romance between Jack and Sylvi very "push and pull." Don't get me wrong, it was still enjoyable, but I did find myself struggling to push through, and groaning each time they pulled away from each other or something forced them away from each other.
And the ENDING? Such a diabolical cliffhanger UGH I must read the next book!
♡ pre-read ♡
A JACK FROST RETELLING omgggggg. I live for this, hehe. I'm so excited!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars
I jumped at the chance to read The Flame in the Frost because the second I realized this was a dark romantasy with Jack Frost as the MMC, I was gone. Done for. Sold immediately. As someone who has always had a soft spot for Jack Frost, this concept felt like it was basically handcrafted for me. And then you throw in the Norse-inspired elements too? Yeah. There was no way I was not picking this up.
One thing this book does really well is world-building. There is so much history woven into this story, along with rich backstories, fascinating locations, and characters that actually feel dynamic and important to the world around them. It felt immersive in a way that made me want to keep turning the pages just to learn more. I love when a fantasy world feels layered and alive, and this one absolutely did.
Sylvi was also such a strong FMC. She had that perfect balance of being capable and fierce without losing her femininity, which I personally love seeing. She felt powerful, but still soft in the ways that mattered, and I really appreciated that her strength never came at the cost of her womanhood. She was such a good heroine to follow.
And Jack and Sylvi? My heart was absolutely gone for them from the beginning. Their best friends to fated mates dynamic was so sweet and precious, and it gave their relationship such a pure emotional core. That made all of the tension, longing, and yearning hit even harder. There was something so tender about them that had me rooting for them the entire time.
Also, let's talk about how this book managed to leave me with approximately one million unanswered questions. Because wow. This first installment opened the door to so many things that still need to be explored, and that ending absolutely did not give me peace. That cliffhanger has me out here needing the next book to be announced, released, and placed directly into my hands immediately!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I jumped at the chance to read The Flame in the Frost because the second I realized this was a dark romantasy with Jack Frost as the MMC, I was gone. Done for. Sold immediately. As someone who has always had a soft spot for Jack Frost, this concept felt like it was basically handcrafted for me. And then you throw in the Norse-inspired elements too? Yeah. There was no way I was not picking this up.
One thing this book does really well is world-building. There is so much history woven into this story, along with rich backstories, fascinating locations, and characters that actually feel dynamic and important to the world around them. It felt immersive in a way that made me want to keep turning the pages just to learn more. I love when a fantasy world feels layered and alive, and this one absolutely did.
Sylvi was also such a strong FMC. She had that perfect balance of being capable and fierce without losing her femininity, which I personally love seeing. She felt powerful, but still soft in the ways that mattered, and I really appreciated that her strength never came at the cost of her womanhood. She was such a good heroine to follow.
And Jack and Sylvi? My heart was absolutely gone for them from the beginning. Their best friends to fated mates dynamic was so sweet and precious, and it gave their relationship such a pure emotional core. That made all of the tension, longing, and yearning hit even harder. There was something so tender about them that had me rooting for them the entire time.
Also, let's talk about how this book managed to leave me with approximately one million unanswered questions. Because wow. This first installment opened the door to so many things that still need to be explored, and that ending absolutely did not give me peace. That cliffhanger has me out here needing the next book to be announced, released, and placed directly into my hands immediately!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Want to Read
March 24, 2026❄️ 💙The Flame in the Frost💙 ❄️
A Norse-inspired dark fantasy romance
📖 Bookish Thoughts
I’ll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.
🔥 What to Expect
• Friends to lovers
• Cursed prince
• Captain of the guard FMC
• Forbidden love
• Arranged marriage
• Norse inspired world
• Magic and deadly creatures
_ _ _
📅 Pub Date: June 30, 2026
📝 Thank you to Three Brothers Press and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
A Norse-inspired dark fantasy romance
📖 Bookish Thoughts
I’ll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.
🔥 What to Expect
• Friends to lovers
• Cursed prince
• Captain of the guard FMC
• Forbidden love
• Arranged marriage
• Norse inspired world
• Magic and deadly creatures
_ _ _
📅 Pub Date: June 30, 2026
📝 Thank you to Three Brothers Press and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
April 5, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for my early copy of A Flame in the Frost. When I started this, I thought it would just be a cozy Jack Frost retelling, but it ended up being so much more. The world building and plot were so complex and rich. I didn’t want to put this book down. This book made me realize that I love friends to lovers as much as I love enemies to lovers. The tension and yearning were top notch and I loved these characters. I’m really excited for the continuation of Sylvi and Jack’s story.
July 3, 2026
A Jack Frost retelling? But make it darker, edgy, and way more intense? Say less!
Thank you Olivia Boothe & Three Brothers Press for a copy of this ARC. All opinions are my own.
What to expect:
🚫 NOT a fluffy Christmas tale
❄️ MMC is Jökullson "Jack" Drakmyr, the Ice Prince
🗡️ FMC is Sylvanna Isenwulf Captain of the Royal Guard
👩🏾❤️💋👨🏼 best friends to lovers
🔥 slow burn, yearning, forbidden romance
🐺 Norse mythology 🐇
✨magic, creatures, animal shifters, fairies, wisps, crone
⚔️ royals waging war for power
👰 arranged marriage between royals
🔺potential set up of a love triangle in book 2?
🌶️ 2.5 / 5
The blurb:
Sylvanna’s dream has finally come true- she has been promoted to the Captain of the Guard. Her job is simple, protect the kingdom of Skadgard, protect the Prince - easy, he’s her best friend - and above all, follow the Queen’s orders. But when the Queen orders her make sure the Prince, Jack, agrees to an arranged marriage in order to save the kingdom from impending devastation, her heart is torn between duty to her kingdom, following the Queen’s orders, and obeying the desires of her heart. Jack agrees to the marriage but also fights the same warring feelings and intense magnetism he feels growing between he and Syl.
My thoughts:
This was such a delight to read! If you ever watched Rise of the Guardians and thought Jack Frost was FOINE🔥 , this is for you. If you like a fairy tale retelling but way grittier, intense, gruesome and dark- this is for you. And if you want to read about a love between two people that is earth shattering- what are you waiting for? You need to read this immediately!
He pines for her, he saves her, she saves him, they take care of each other… it’s just so beautiful. 🥹
I will be adding Olivia’s other books to my TBR immediately!
Thank you Olivia Boothe & Three Brothers Press for a copy of this ARC. All opinions are my own.
What to expect:
🚫 NOT a fluffy Christmas tale
❄️ MMC is Jökullson "Jack" Drakmyr, the Ice Prince
🗡️ FMC is Sylvanna Isenwulf Captain of the Royal Guard
👩🏾❤️💋👨🏼 best friends to lovers
🔥 slow burn, yearning, forbidden romance
🐺 Norse mythology 🐇
✨magic, creatures, animal shifters, fairies, wisps, crone
⚔️ royals waging war for power
👰 arranged marriage between royals
🔺potential set up of a love triangle in book 2?
🌶️ 2.5 / 5
The blurb:
Sylvanna’s dream has finally come true- she has been promoted to the Captain of the Guard. Her job is simple, protect the kingdom of Skadgard, protect the Prince - easy, he’s her best friend - and above all, follow the Queen’s orders. But when the Queen orders her make sure the Prince, Jack, agrees to an arranged marriage in order to save the kingdom from impending devastation, her heart is torn between duty to her kingdom, following the Queen’s orders, and obeying the desires of her heart. Jack agrees to the marriage but also fights the same warring feelings and intense magnetism he feels growing between he and Syl.
My thoughts:
This was such a delight to read! If you ever watched Rise of the Guardians and thought Jack Frost was FOINE🔥 , this is for you. If you like a fairy tale retelling but way grittier, intense, gruesome and dark- this is for you. And if you want to read about a love between two people that is earth shattering- what are you waiting for? You need to read this immediately!
He pines for her, he saves her, she saves him, they take care of each other… it’s just so beautiful. 🥹
I will be adding Olivia’s other books to my TBR immediately!
July 1, 2026
In the frozen kingdom of Skadgard, Captain of the guard Sylvanna Isenwulf and Crown Prince Jack Drakmyr have shared an unbreakable bond since childhood. When Jack is thrust into a political betrothal and they embark on a dangerous mission through the Wildlands, long-buried feelings and an ancient prophecy begin to surface. As dark forces threaten the realm, they must choose between their duty to the kingdom and a love that could change their destinies forever.
I highly, highly recommend this book! 🩵 The book starts with great worldbuilding and getting to know our characters along with some suspension pretty fast into the story. Olivia Boothe has a way of writing that makes you connect to the characters and the story so easily. She really draws you into the frozen kingdom of Skadgard and has you hooked to the story from beginning to end.
I loved Jack and Sylvi right from the start and eventhough I am normally not a big fan of friends to lovers, this felt totally different. The yearning between them... Next level! I felt for the both of them.
After about 20% the story really picked up and didnt stop until the end. The last 35% I read yesterday evening until 2 a.m. last night. I just couldn't put it down anymore. To close the book at 2 a.m... at a massive cliffhanger... 😅😱 I need the second book. I really need it... like... now...
If you love romantasy, friends-to-lovers, forbidden love, yearning and touch-her-and-die, plus emotional writing that really draws you in, than this book is absolutely for you! There is not a thing that I would've done differently in this book. Therefore this is a well deserved 6⭐️!! 😉
Thank you to Netgalley and author Olivia Boothe for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. It's been a true honor because I absolutely loved it!
I highly, highly recommend this book! 🩵 The book starts with great worldbuilding and getting to know our characters along with some suspension pretty fast into the story. Olivia Boothe has a way of writing that makes you connect to the characters and the story so easily. She really draws you into the frozen kingdom of Skadgard and has you hooked to the story from beginning to end.
I loved Jack and Sylvi right from the start and eventhough I am normally not a big fan of friends to lovers, this felt totally different. The yearning between them... Next level! I felt for the both of them.
After about 20% the story really picked up and didnt stop until the end. The last 35% I read yesterday evening until 2 a.m. last night. I just couldn't put it down anymore. To close the book at 2 a.m... at a massive cliffhanger... 😅😱 I need the second book. I really need it... like... now...
If you love romantasy, friends-to-lovers, forbidden love, yearning and touch-her-and-die, plus emotional writing that really draws you in, than this book is absolutely for you! There is not a thing that I would've done differently in this book. Therefore this is a well deserved 6⭐️!! 😉
Thank you to Netgalley and author Olivia Boothe for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. It's been a true honor because I absolutely loved it!
July 2, 2026
If you’re looking for a unique concept and something to add to your winter TBR, look no further! Norse inspired Jack Frost reimagining & Romantasy alllll in one! Heavy on the fantasy but the romance was the core of this book which I always LIVE FOR! Friends to lovers usually isn’t my cup of tea but I thought this was done well. The world building was heavy the first 30%, a lot of storytelling to catch us up on the way things worked but overall it was a really cool world with a great romance
thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book!
thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book!
June 21, 2026
5⭐️ " Real love as it is. Messy. Complicated. And sinfully addictive." - This is how author Olivia Boothe describes the type of romance she writes, and I can think of no better way to describe the Flame in the Frost and the love story therein - I was literally addicted to the main characters' relationship dynamic as soon as they appeared on-page together.
In the past, the childhood friends to lovers trope hasn't typically been one I was fond of in this genre. I like the uncertainty and thrill of two love interests just getting to know each other for the first time. However, this book has completely changed my mind; perhaps this is the first time I've experienced a writer do this trope justice.
At its heart, the Flame in the Frost is an examination into the complexities of human connection and emotion, and the depth of the love that can be realized between two people if they are willing to but set aside societies expectations and follow their hearts.
Besides the writing being exquisite, this story is full of tension, yearning, self-denial to the point it is painful, unflinching loyalty, and all-consuming, raw love that left me in awe.
I love a good story filled with adventure, but even moreso than that, I love one that is character driven. This story is that!
I LOVE the main characters Sylvi and Jack! This book is dual POV, so after you have, for example, Sylvi's POV, that's directly followed by Jack's POV, so you always know both of their feelings on whatever has transpired. I felt like I knew them! I felt so connected to their complicated relationship dynamic, which is interlaced with small details from their time growing up together so that you are never in doubt of how deep their love goes - even when they themselves are being foolish and fighting those feelings.
Sylvi is fierce and unpredictable as Jack's Captain of the Guard, while Jack is equally fierce and regal, but also SO devoted to Sylvi, and the reader can see this even when Syli's own insecurities get in her way and she can't see it for herself. The push and pull between these two had me anxiously flipping pages late into the night, and I could have screamed in frustration at the "interruption trope" a time or two. BUT - it was all worth it in the end (especially Jack's surprisingly filthy mouth!)! 😂🫠
While this is heavily character-driven, make no mistake, there is a SOLID, complicated plot. This world of frost and magical monsters (fae included) has an intricate history, complex politics and revelations that expertly unravel as the story reaches its pinnacle. And the battle scenes?? I got chills multiple times over, they were so rich in detail!
This is one of my favorite stories I've read this year, and I feel a little desperate to know what will become of these two characters I love so much in book 2.
If you enjoy stories with complex political and magical systems, characters with so much depth you live their turmoil right alongside them, a plot that is equal parts fast-paced and emotional, and a love that defies time, you'll probably enjoy this book as much as I did.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing an advanced reader copy of this book to me. This review is my honest opinion, and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
In the past, the childhood friends to lovers trope hasn't typically been one I was fond of in this genre. I like the uncertainty and thrill of two love interests just getting to know each other for the first time. However, this book has completely changed my mind; perhaps this is the first time I've experienced a writer do this trope justice.
At its heart, the Flame in the Frost is an examination into the complexities of human connection and emotion, and the depth of the love that can be realized between two people if they are willing to but set aside societies expectations and follow their hearts.
Besides the writing being exquisite, this story is full of tension, yearning, self-denial to the point it is painful, unflinching loyalty, and all-consuming, raw love that left me in awe.
I love a good story filled with adventure, but even moreso than that, I love one that is character driven. This story is that!
I LOVE the main characters Sylvi and Jack! This book is dual POV, so after you have, for example, Sylvi's POV, that's directly followed by Jack's POV, so you always know both of their feelings on whatever has transpired. I felt like I knew them! I felt so connected to their complicated relationship dynamic, which is interlaced with small details from their time growing up together so that you are never in doubt of how deep their love goes - even when they themselves are being foolish and fighting those feelings.
Sylvi is fierce and unpredictable as Jack's Captain of the Guard, while Jack is equally fierce and regal, but also SO devoted to Sylvi, and the reader can see this even when Syli's own insecurities get in her way and she can't see it for herself. The push and pull between these two had me anxiously flipping pages late into the night, and I could have screamed in frustration at the "interruption trope" a time or two. BUT - it was all worth it in the end (especially Jack's surprisingly filthy mouth!)! 😂🫠
While this is heavily character-driven, make no mistake, there is a SOLID, complicated plot. This world of frost and magical monsters (fae included) has an intricate history, complex politics and revelations that expertly unravel as the story reaches its pinnacle. And the battle scenes?? I got chills multiple times over, they were so rich in detail!
This is one of my favorite stories I've read this year, and I feel a little desperate to know what will become of these two characters I love so much in book 2.
If you enjoy stories with complex political and magical systems, characters with so much depth you live their turmoil right alongside them, a plot that is equal parts fast-paced and emotional, and a love that defies time, you'll probably enjoy this book as much as I did.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing an advanced reader copy of this book to me. This review is my honest opinion, and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
May 15, 2026
Look out! This is a solidly written book and this author is an author to watch! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In my book club of book friends, 2 of the high book count girlies were ranting, raving and book pushing until I gave in. Look, when you get told recs a bunch and have a tbr that’s as long as a Christmas wish list, you tend to just add it to the list. BUT both ladies said it was their FAVORITE BOOK OF THE YEAR!! Naturally, I had to join the club due to needing a book that could be that good. So I managed to get approved to arc read this book. THANK GOODNESS!!
This author’s writing game is strong. Her characters are memorable. Best friends to possible lovers? Possibly? Forbidden magic. Lots of choices for villains and allies. The fight scenes were jaw dropping. The pace is is perfection.
I kept thinking to myself, “how come more people aren’t talking about this?” So here I am screaming at you to try this book.
This author’s books will become must reads. You watch. :)
In my book club of book friends, 2 of the high book count girlies were ranting, raving and book pushing until I gave in. Look, when you get told recs a bunch and have a tbr that’s as long as a Christmas wish list, you tend to just add it to the list. BUT both ladies said it was their FAVORITE BOOK OF THE YEAR!! Naturally, I had to join the club due to needing a book that could be that good. So I managed to get approved to arc read this book. THANK GOODNESS!!
This author’s writing game is strong. Her characters are memorable. Best friends to possible lovers? Possibly? Forbidden magic. Lots of choices for villains and allies. The fight scenes were jaw dropping. The pace is is perfection.
I kept thinking to myself, “how come more people aren’t talking about this?” So here I am screaming at you to try this book.
This author’s books will become must reads. You watch. :)
June 22, 2026
4.25 ⭐️-
This was a wild ride. Jack Frost inspired had me eating this one up! The world was easy to get into. The magic system and the court politics kept me entertained and I really had no idea what was going to happen.
Jack and Syl were such great characters. I really enjoyed their friends to lovers romance and how no matter what they felt for the other, something kept pulling them apart. The yearning for the other was top notch. I love Jack and Syl so the ending has me worried because I’m unsure how I’m going to feel in the next one. But OMG the twists are so good!!
❄️🩵 Tropes:
• Friends to lovers
• Forbidden love
• Prophecies
• Ice magic
• Yearning/tension
• Court intrigue
• Morally grey MMC
Definitely recommend this one!!
This was a wild ride. Jack Frost inspired had me eating this one up! The world was easy to get into. The magic system and the court politics kept me entertained and I really had no idea what was going to happen.
Jack and Syl were such great characters. I really enjoyed their friends to lovers romance and how no matter what they felt for the other, something kept pulling them apart. The yearning for the other was top notch. I love Jack and Syl so the ending has me worried because I’m unsure how I’m going to feel in the next one. But OMG the twists are so good!!
❄️🩵 Tropes:
• Friends to lovers
• Forbidden love
• Prophecies
• Ice magic
• Yearning/tension
• Court intrigue
• Morally grey MMC
Definitely recommend this one!!
July 5, 2026
A Jack Frost retelling with a magic system inspired by Yule and Christmas! I loved the Norse inspiration.
I had such a good time exploring this world. The magic and world building were easily my favourite part of the book and I loved how everything tied into the festive theme.
For me, it was just a little too slow. I never fully connected with Jack or Sylvi and the back and forth between them started to wear on me after a while.
That being said... the last 15–20% had me hooked. Things finally picked up, the ending had me flying through the pages, and that cliffhanger definitely did its job.
This wasn't a standout read for me but I can see so much potential in this series, and I'll absolutely be picking up book two.
I had such a good time exploring this world. The magic and world building were easily my favourite part of the book and I loved how everything tied into the festive theme.
For me, it was just a little too slow. I never fully connected with Jack or Sylvi and the back and forth between them started to wear on me after a while.
That being said... the last 15–20% had me hooked. Things finally picked up, the ending had me flying through the pages, and that cliffhanger definitely did its job.
This wasn't a standout read for me but I can see so much potential in this series, and I'll absolutely be picking up book two.
June 30, 2026
ARC provided by BookSirens | 5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
“Elskan mín… My darling.” — Jack
This was such a fun and intense ride! I am so grateful to Olivia Boothe for crafting such an incredible story, because I am still thinking about Jack and Sylvi long after turning the final page late last night.
From the very first chapters, I was immersed in this richly imagined world of ice and fae courts, political intrigue, ancient magic, and long-buried secrets. Unlike many fantasy novels that require time to fully settle into, this story immediately pulled me in and never truly let go.
What struck me the most was undoubtedly the relationship between Sylvi and Jack. This felt like a true friends-to-lovers story. Childhood friends turned into something more, their bond forms the emotional heart of this novel. Their years of friendship, loyalty, unspoken feelings, and mutual devotion (and frustration!) create a romance that feels believable, intense, and immensely rewarding.
I also loved that Sylvi is the Frostbound Court’s Captain of the Royal Guard, a role that felt refreshingly original within the romantasy genre and added another interesting layer to their relationship. Combined with the dual POV, which allows readers to fully experience both characters’ fears and growing feelings, the story becomes even more immersive.
There is, however, a constant push and pull throughout the story, with external events repeatedly preventing Jack and Sylvi from fully moving forward in their relationship. While this certainly heightened the emotional tension and angst, there were moments when I wished the story would allow them a little more time together to talk things through. Their slow-burn romance is filled with yearning, longing, stolen moments, and countless interruptions that kept me in a constant state of emotional agony!
And let’s talk about Jack, who completely stole my heart. As the Frost Prince, he embodies everything I love in an MMC: fiercely protective, deeply loyal, powerful, and profoundly vulnerable when it comes to Sylvi. Watching this formidable prince lose all control around his childhood friend completely stole my heart. The eventual romantic payoff was absolutely worth the wait and, once this first book finally turns up the heat, it does not hold back. I was genuinely surprised by the level of intensity, but in the very best way 🫠.
Beyond the romance, I also loved the magic and the worldbuilding, the political intrigue, the atmospheric winter setting, and the mysteries surrounding Sylvi’s identity and the realm itself. The worldbuilding is immersive, filled with ancient lore and forgotten secrets waiting to be uncovered. The glossary at the end was very helpful, but I would have loved to have at least a map to better visualize the different realms. Perhaps this was intentional…
The novel is undeniably character-driven, but the plot never loses momentum. Twists, betrayals, shocking revelations, and high emotional stakes kept me fully invested from beginning to end.
A special mention must go to the emotional intensity of this story. Several scenes genuinely broke my heart, particularly those involving Jack and the cruelty of the Frost Court. Olivia Boothe does not shy away from pain, sacrifice, and difficult choices, making the emotional moments hit even harder.
Be warned: this book ends on a cliffhanger!
If you enjoy romantasy featuring childhood friends-to-lovers, political intrigue, powerful fae, protective heroes, delicious yearning, and a romance built on years of simmering feelings and ultimate devotion, The Flame in the Frost is absolutely worth picking up.
So now, the most important question is: when is book two coming out?!
My ratings: overall 5 ⭐️
Emotional impact: 5
Character connection: 4.75
Worldbuilding: 4.5
Plot: 4.25
Writing: 4.5
Romance: 5
Spice: 3 🌶️
I received an advance review copy from Olivia Boothe and BookSirens, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
“Elskan mín… My darling.” — Jack
This was such a fun and intense ride! I am so grateful to Olivia Boothe for crafting such an incredible story, because I am still thinking about Jack and Sylvi long after turning the final page late last night.
From the very first chapters, I was immersed in this richly imagined world of ice and fae courts, political intrigue, ancient magic, and long-buried secrets. Unlike many fantasy novels that require time to fully settle into, this story immediately pulled me in and never truly let go.
What struck me the most was undoubtedly the relationship between Sylvi and Jack. This felt like a true friends-to-lovers story. Childhood friends turned into something more, their bond forms the emotional heart of this novel. Their years of friendship, loyalty, unspoken feelings, and mutual devotion (and frustration!) create a romance that feels believable, intense, and immensely rewarding.
I also loved that Sylvi is the Frostbound Court’s Captain of the Royal Guard, a role that felt refreshingly original within the romantasy genre and added another interesting layer to their relationship. Combined with the dual POV, which allows readers to fully experience both characters’ fears and growing feelings, the story becomes even more immersive.
There is, however, a constant push and pull throughout the story, with external events repeatedly preventing Jack and Sylvi from fully moving forward in their relationship. While this certainly heightened the emotional tension and angst, there were moments when I wished the story would allow them a little more time together to talk things through. Their slow-burn romance is filled with yearning, longing, stolen moments, and countless interruptions that kept me in a constant state of emotional agony!
And let’s talk about Jack, who completely stole my heart. As the Frost Prince, he embodies everything I love in an MMC: fiercely protective, deeply loyal, powerful, and profoundly vulnerable when it comes to Sylvi. Watching this formidable prince lose all control around his childhood friend completely stole my heart. The eventual romantic payoff was absolutely worth the wait and, once this first book finally turns up the heat, it does not hold back. I was genuinely surprised by the level of intensity, but in the very best way 🫠.
Beyond the romance, I also loved the magic and the worldbuilding, the political intrigue, the atmospheric winter setting, and the mysteries surrounding Sylvi’s identity and the realm itself. The worldbuilding is immersive, filled with ancient lore and forgotten secrets waiting to be uncovered. The glossary at the end was very helpful, but I would have loved to have at least a map to better visualize the different realms. Perhaps this was intentional…
The novel is undeniably character-driven, but the plot never loses momentum. Twists, betrayals, shocking revelations, and high emotional stakes kept me fully invested from beginning to end.
A special mention must go to the emotional intensity of this story. Several scenes genuinely broke my heart, particularly those involving Jack and the cruelty of the Frost Court. Olivia Boothe does not shy away from pain, sacrifice, and difficult choices, making the emotional moments hit even harder.
Be warned: this book ends on a cliffhanger!
If you enjoy romantasy featuring childhood friends-to-lovers, political intrigue, powerful fae, protective heroes, delicious yearning, and a romance built on years of simmering feelings and ultimate devotion, The Flame in the Frost is absolutely worth picking up.
So now, the most important question is: when is book two coming out?!
My ratings: overall 5 ⭐️
Emotional impact: 5
Character connection: 4.75
Worldbuilding: 4.5
Plot: 4.25
Writing: 4.5
Romance: 5
Spice: 3 🌶️
I received an advance review copy from Olivia Boothe and BookSirens, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 28, 2026
Thank you to netgalley and Olivia Boothe for giving me the amazing opportunity to read this arc!! I had a BLAST reading this!! I honestly jumped for joy when I was accepted to read this book.
A norse mythology inspired story x Jack Frost retelling had me from the beginning! The world building was beautiful and so interesting and easy to keep up with. It felt so magical and real as if I was standing right there with the characters. Olivia did such a fantastic job.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the chemistry between Jack and Sylvi and how their dynamic is. Had me kicking my feet every time they interacted. Like girl you’re living the dream of having a hot ice prince as your best friend who is so deeply in love with you like hello.
I did feel like the beginning of the story started off slow but picked up so fast and that cliffhanger at the end!!?!? I was GAGGED. Beautiful and enjoyable romantasy read ✨
A norse mythology inspired story x Jack Frost retelling had me from the beginning! The world building was beautiful and so interesting and easy to keep up with. It felt so magical and real as if I was standing right there with the characters. Olivia did such a fantastic job.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the chemistry between Jack and Sylvi and how their dynamic is. Had me kicking my feet every time they interacted. Like girl you’re living the dream of having a hot ice prince as your best friend who is so deeply in love with you like hello.
I did feel like the beginning of the story started off slow but picked up so fast and that cliffhanger at the end!!?!? I was GAGGED. Beautiful and enjoyable romantasy read ✨
April 13, 2026
I went back and forth a little when deciding on my rating for this book.
On one hand I really enjoyed the characters, the authors writing style and the dynamics of the story. I loved how the friends to lovers was carried out, the yearning and tension between Sylvi and Jack had me hooked. I found the world building and magic to be really interesting and I was eager to read more.
On the other hand, there were times where the yearning felt like it took over the plot a bit too much. It occasionally pulled focus away from the story itself, which made things feel slightly chaotic at points.
That said, the last 30% of the book had me hooked and definitely left me with so many questions and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the eARC of The Flame in the Frost in exchange for an honest review.
On one hand I really enjoyed the characters, the authors writing style and the dynamics of the story. I loved how the friends to lovers was carried out, the yearning and tension between Sylvi and Jack had me hooked. I found the world building and magic to be really interesting and I was eager to read more.
On the other hand, there were times where the yearning felt like it took over the plot a bit too much. It occasionally pulled focus away from the story itself, which made things feel slightly chaotic at points.
That said, the last 30% of the book had me hooked and definitely left me with so many questions and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the eARC of The Flame in the Frost in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2026
This was an ARC received from Netgalley :)
I absolutely loved The Flame in the Frost! Olivia Boothe’s writing pulled me in from the start, and I couldn’t get enough of the world and characters. I especially loved the Nordic aspects.
Jack Frost was my favorite part of the book—such a badass, but also vulnerable and incredibly lovable. The slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance between Jack and Sylvanna was beautifully done and kept me hooked the entire time.
With great world-building, action, and emotional depth, this was an unforgettable fantasy romance. I can’t wait for the next book!
I absolutely loved The Flame in the Frost! Olivia Boothe’s writing pulled me in from the start, and I couldn’t get enough of the world and characters. I especially loved the Nordic aspects.
Jack Frost was my favorite part of the book—such a badass, but also vulnerable and incredibly lovable. The slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance between Jack and Sylvanna was beautifully done and kept me hooked the entire time.
With great world-building, action, and emotional depth, this was an unforgettable fantasy romance. I can’t wait for the next book!
July 5, 2026
Wow, this was an incredible start to this romantasy series! Between the fae, hidden magic, and a unique twist on Jack Frost, I was hooked from the very beginning. I also loved that this was a friends-to-lovers romance, had plenty of action, and featured an FMC who was already a capable soldier and leader in her own right. She wasn't waiting to be saved—she was out there fighting alongside everyone else. The world has so much potential, and I can't wait to see where this series goes next! ❄️📖✨
June 11, 2026
The Flame in The Frost comes out on Kindle and KindleU on June 30th. It is a wonderful epic gothic fantasy with Norse inspired story. I loved the monsters, magic and the characters are interesting. It’s a slow burn with spice and it left me upset that I have to wait for the next installment! Thank you to Olivia for the advance copy. I enjoyed the book immensely!
April 4, 2026
You guy's aren't ready for this book - unputdownable!
ARC Review
A Flame in the Frost
Olivia Boothe | June 30th, 2026
The Perfect First Book & beginning to an epic Trilogy.
A Norse-mythology inspired romantasy with a Jack Frost retelling that will make you pant, cry and potentially angry at Sylvanna and Jack's antics.
Vibe Rating: 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Writing Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
Reading Experience:
- Dual First Person POV, fast pace with a character driven plot.
- Medium burn romance with explicit open door scenes.
- Realms with Portals, Elemental Magic, Shifters, Fae, Witches and other mythical creatures
For lovers of: A Bridge Kingdom, Road of Bones, Direbound
Tropes
🎭 Strong FMC — Captain of the Guard
🎭 Political Intrigue and Subterfuge
🎭 Feminine Rage
🎭 Forbidden Romance
🎭 Friends to Lovers
🎭 Suppression of Power
🎭 Touch Her and Die
⚠️ Trigger Warning: Explicit Sexual Content and Violence. Themes of non-consent are present without full conclusion.
In the mythical northern plane of Nordveld, we find ourselves bound to Sylvanna, Captain of Skadgard and Jack, dutiful Prince and Heir to the Frostbound Court. Nordveld sits on the edge of war and at its centre, The Ice Queen herself and ruler of Skadgard and the Frostbound Court is pulling all the strings. Slyvanna and Jack are torn by duty and their devotion to each other. Their life long friendship is put to the test as they discovery the hidden truths within Skadgard and each other. Can their friendship and the realm survive the longing they have for each other?
Where it shines: Where this book truly shines is in the tension Boothe builds between two people who have known each other too long to pretend. The friendship-to-romance slow burn is executed with real skill — every charged moment feels earned rather than forced. The banter is sharp and genuinely fun, the kind that makes you grin and then immediately feel stressed for them. And Jack's POV was a particular highlight — getting inside his head added a layer of complexity to what could have easily been a brooding love interest, and instead made him one of the more compelling male leads I've read in a while.
Where it fell short: There was a lot of internal monologue which can be translated as telling and not showing. However it was truly an excellent story and first book and I cannot wait for book two. A map would also be spectacular.
A Flame in the Frost is a confident, addictive series opener that romantasy readers will devour — especially if you love a friends-to-lovers slow burn wrapped in mythology and chaos. I'll be first in line for book two.
Thank you to NetGalley and Olivia Boothe for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
ARC Review
A Flame in the Frost
Olivia Boothe | June 30th, 2026
The Perfect First Book & beginning to an epic Trilogy.
A Norse-mythology inspired romantasy with a Jack Frost retelling that will make you pant, cry and potentially angry at Sylvanna and Jack's antics.
Vibe Rating: 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Writing Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
Reading Experience:
- Dual First Person POV, fast pace with a character driven plot.
- Medium burn romance with explicit open door scenes.
- Realms with Portals, Elemental Magic, Shifters, Fae, Witches and other mythical creatures
For lovers of: A Bridge Kingdom, Road of Bones, Direbound
Tropes
🎭 Strong FMC — Captain of the Guard
🎭 Political Intrigue and Subterfuge
🎭 Feminine Rage
🎭 Forbidden Romance
🎭 Friends to Lovers
🎭 Suppression of Power
🎭 Touch Her and Die
⚠️ Trigger Warning: Explicit Sexual Content and Violence. Themes of non-consent are present without full conclusion.
In the mythical northern plane of Nordveld, we find ourselves bound to Sylvanna, Captain of Skadgard and Jack, dutiful Prince and Heir to the Frostbound Court. Nordveld sits on the edge of war and at its centre, The Ice Queen herself and ruler of Skadgard and the Frostbound Court is pulling all the strings. Slyvanna and Jack are torn by duty and their devotion to each other. Their life long friendship is put to the test as they discovery the hidden truths within Skadgard and each other. Can their friendship and the realm survive the longing they have for each other?
Where it shines: Where this book truly shines is in the tension Boothe builds between two people who have known each other too long to pretend. The friendship-to-romance slow burn is executed with real skill — every charged moment feels earned rather than forced. The banter is sharp and genuinely fun, the kind that makes you grin and then immediately feel stressed for them. And Jack's POV was a particular highlight — getting inside his head added a layer of complexity to what could have easily been a brooding love interest, and instead made him one of the more compelling male leads I've read in a while.
Where it fell short: There was a lot of internal monologue which can be translated as telling and not showing. However it was truly an excellent story and first book and I cannot wait for book two. A map would also be spectacular.
A Flame in the Frost is a confident, addictive series opener that romantasy readers will devour — especially if you love a friends-to-lovers slow burn wrapped in mythology and chaos. I'll be first in line for book two.
Thank you to NetGalley and Olivia Boothe for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 8, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Wow, this was such a fun read! The yearning went CRAZY. Will write a full review soon!
Thank you Netgalley and Olivia for this ARC!
Wow, this was such a fun read! The yearning went CRAZY. Will write a full review soon!
Thank you Netgalley and Olivia for this ARC!
June 21, 2026
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓛;𝓓𝓡 ✧˖°
An exciting romantasy perfect for readers looking for a historic world with mysterious allegiances, vibrant side characters both sinister and charming, and a ferocious friendship full of undeniable yearning.
° ˖✧ 𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
4.25 ⭐
2 🌶️
° ˖✧ 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
"She is the flame in the frost, the light in the darkness. The blade yet unsharpened. A love bound by blood and magic, both fates entwined, the blessed daughter of Selvarg will be your ruin and your salvation."
"I will plunge this whole damn kingdom into an eternal hoarfrost winter just to tear your from the claws of its flames."
“Unclaimed?” I said, “Elskan mín… you’ve been mine since the day you first stepped into my maze.”
“Because Náldrún curse me, the way I want you should make the gods tremble on their thrones.”
° ˖✧ 𝓢𝔂𝓷𝓸𝓹𝓼𝓲𝓼 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ✧˖°
Captain of the guard Sylvanna must protect her best friend Prince Jack on the perilous journey to another kingdom and the arranged betrothal that awaits him. But when long buried feelings surface, will they choose duty or love?
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
💕 Friends to Lovers
🔗 Forced Proximity
💔 Forbidden Romance
💘 Fated Mates
❄️ Jack Frost Retelling
💀 Touch Her and Die
✨ Hidden Power
🧐 Political Intrigue
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
🌶️ Explicit Sexual Content
🩸 Violence
❤️🩹 Torture
🪦 Death and Grief
🆘 Attempted SA
° ˖✧ 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
+ Fun to read as a group
+ Villainous Queen
+ Funny Best Friend
+ Romantic Tension + Payoff
+ Interesting Magic System
+ Action Sequences
+ Exciting Ending
° ˖✧ 𝓓𝓲𝓼𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
- Heavy Exposition
- Lots of Repetitiveness (phrasing, interior thoughts, arguments)
- Interruptions used to increase tension too often
- Elements of Miscommunication
- Length of the book feels unnecessary
° ˖✧ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ✧˖°
This was a really fun book to read with friends - I'm so glad I waited for a buddy read!
To begin with, I was a little bit overwhelmed with the amount of worldbuilding. The prologue and the initial chapters were quite info-dumpy and felt like they weren't as necessary to the overall story. I would've enjoyed it more had the story began immediately in the queen's meeting room with the council - Sylvi angry with Jack as he'd been missing for days. This would've helped more with the immediate conflict.
However, it's also worth noting that there's a glossary at the end which can help with some of the confusion with all the various courts, creatures, and magic mentioned along the way.
I really enjoyed the queen's sadistic nature - she was one of the more interesting characters to hear from. Also Ravin (Jack's best friend) was constantly fun to have on the page with his various quips and flirty nature - while still being fiercely protective of Jack.
Though the stars of the book were absolutely Jack and Sylvi. Their comfortable relationship is immediately obvious, as well as the innate attraction between them both - making for some delicious moments of yearning. I could really feel the conflict between their professional positions, their years of friendship, and their desire for more.
The magic used by Jack and his mother the queen was really interesting to watch, though I wish we'd seen more of it. Jack's deadly when he's' protecting Sylvi, but I'd have loved to have seen more of a softer side. Also, it would've been handy to know more about the other types of magic - we know it's kept within the royals but it's not confirmed whether all the royals have ice magic or not.
Sometimes I was frustrated by the arguments between Jack and Sylvi. Sylvi's very quick to anger and occasionally it felt like she couldn't make up her mind. Jack is always begging for her forgiveness - it got a little repetitive. Speaking of repetitiveness, the amount of times the pair got interrupted was infuriating! To begin with this felt like a natural increase in tension, but eventually it felt cliche.
Also, certain terms were used repeatedly like "porcelain doll" which frequently caught my eye and took me out of the story. Especially when this happened between POV shifts. Most of the time the author did a good job with making the different POVs distinguishable, but sometimes it felt like Jack and Sylvi were each thinking the same things and again got a little repetitive.
Some of my favourite scenes were the action ones! I loved seeing Sylvi and Jack working together against a common enemy, and when the princess gets added to the mix it's really fun seeing how they all interact together. While I found myself really enjoying the friends to lovers trope, there was a part of me that felt they could've avoided all these issues had they spoken of it years ago.
The romantic payoff was great, I wasn't sure we'd get a moment like it as the first book in the series, but the ending ramped everything up again! I can't wait to see what happens to Jack and Sylvi next!
Thank you to Olivia Boothe and Three Brothers Press for the opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
An exciting romantasy perfect for readers looking for a historic world with mysterious allegiances, vibrant side characters both sinister and charming, and a ferocious friendship full of undeniable yearning.
° ˖✧ 𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
4.25 ⭐
2 🌶️
° ˖✧ 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
"She is the flame in the frost, the light in the darkness. The blade yet unsharpened. A love bound by blood and magic, both fates entwined, the blessed daughter of Selvarg will be your ruin and your salvation."
"I will plunge this whole damn kingdom into an eternal hoarfrost winter just to tear your from the claws of its flames."
“Unclaimed?” I said, “Elskan mín… you’ve been mine since the day you first stepped into my maze.”
“Because Náldrún curse me, the way I want you should make the gods tremble on their thrones.”
° ˖✧ 𝓢𝔂𝓷𝓸𝓹𝓼𝓲𝓼 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ✧˖°
Captain of the guard Sylvanna must protect her best friend Prince Jack on the perilous journey to another kingdom and the arranged betrothal that awaits him. But when long buried feelings surface, will they choose duty or love?
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
💕 Friends to Lovers
🔗 Forced Proximity
💔 Forbidden Romance
💘 Fated Mates
❄️ Jack Frost Retelling
💀 Touch Her and Die
✨ Hidden Power
🧐 Political Intrigue
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
🌶️ Explicit Sexual Content
🩸 Violence
❤️🩹 Torture
🪦 Death and Grief
🆘 Attempted SA
° ˖✧ 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
+ Fun to read as a group
+ Villainous Queen
+ Funny Best Friend
+ Romantic Tension + Payoff
+ Interesting Magic System
+ Action Sequences
+ Exciting Ending
° ˖✧ 𝓓𝓲𝓼𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
- Heavy Exposition
- Lots of Repetitiveness (phrasing, interior thoughts, arguments)
- Interruptions used to increase tension too often
- Elements of Miscommunication
- Length of the book feels unnecessary
° ˖✧ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ✧˖°
This was a really fun book to read with friends - I'm so glad I waited for a buddy read!
To begin with, I was a little bit overwhelmed with the amount of worldbuilding. The prologue and the initial chapters were quite info-dumpy and felt like they weren't as necessary to the overall story. I would've enjoyed it more had the story began immediately in the queen's meeting room with the council - Sylvi angry with Jack as he'd been missing for days. This would've helped more with the immediate conflict.
However, it's also worth noting that there's a glossary at the end which can help with some of the confusion with all the various courts, creatures, and magic mentioned along the way.
I really enjoyed the queen's sadistic nature - she was one of the more interesting characters to hear from. Also Ravin (Jack's best friend) was constantly fun to have on the page with his various quips and flirty nature - while still being fiercely protective of Jack.
Though the stars of the book were absolutely Jack and Sylvi. Their comfortable relationship is immediately obvious, as well as the innate attraction between them both - making for some delicious moments of yearning. I could really feel the conflict between their professional positions, their years of friendship, and their desire for more.
The magic used by Jack and his mother the queen was really interesting to watch, though I wish we'd seen more of it. Jack's deadly when he's' protecting Sylvi, but I'd have loved to have seen more of a softer side. Also, it would've been handy to know more about the other types of magic - we know it's kept within the royals but it's not confirmed whether all the royals have ice magic or not.
Sometimes I was frustrated by the arguments between Jack and Sylvi. Sylvi's very quick to anger and occasionally it felt like she couldn't make up her mind. Jack is always begging for her forgiveness - it got a little repetitive. Speaking of repetitiveness, the amount of times the pair got interrupted was infuriating! To begin with this felt like a natural increase in tension, but eventually it felt cliche.
Also, certain terms were used repeatedly like "porcelain doll" which frequently caught my eye and took me out of the story. Especially when this happened between POV shifts. Most of the time the author did a good job with making the different POVs distinguishable, but sometimes it felt like Jack and Sylvi were each thinking the same things and again got a little repetitive.
Some of my favourite scenes were the action ones! I loved seeing Sylvi and Jack working together against a common enemy, and when the princess gets added to the mix it's really fun seeing how they all interact together. While I found myself really enjoying the friends to lovers trope, there was a part of me that felt they could've avoided all these issues had they spoken of it years ago.
The romantic payoff was great, I wasn't sure we'd get a moment like it as the first book in the series, but the ending ramped everything up again! I can't wait to see what happens to Jack and Sylvi next!
Thank you to Olivia Boothe and Three Brothers Press for the opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Did Not Finish
July 7, 2026Olivia Boothe’s The Flame in the Frost is a Norse-inspired, dark epic fantasy romance that
sets up an atmospheric, high-stakes world right from its opening pages. Reimagining the mythos of Jack Frost through a mature, gritty lens, the story transports readers to the brutally frozen kingdom of Skadgard. At its core, the narrative follows Sylvanna Isenwulf, the newly appointed Captain of the Guard, and Prince Jökullson “Jack” Drakmyr, the cursed heir to the throne and Sylvanna's lifelong best friend. When Jack is forced into an arranged betrothal to secure a fragile political alliance, Sylvanna is tasked with escorting him through the perilous, creature-ridden Wildlands. Along the journey, the dangerous, invisible tether connecting their souls begins to strain under the weight of forbidden desire, duty to the crown, and a sinister, rising enemy.
On paper, this book has everything a "romantasy" fan could possibly crave: a rich winter setting, a foundational friends-to-lovers dynamic, deep political tension, and a brooding, cursed prince. From a technical standpoint, what I did read was undoubtedly well-written. Boothe has a talent for evocative prose, painting a vivid picture of Skadgard’s biting chill and formatting an intricate backdrop for her characters. The protagonists themselves were interesting and clearly possessed a lot of underlying complexity.
However, despite the strong writing and the promising premise, I ultimately had to step away and put this book down after hitting the 20% mark. For a book to fully take hold of me, I need a specific spark of momentum that makes it impossible to stop turning the pages, and unfortunately, I just wasn't finding myself invested here. The pacing at the beginning felt a bit heavy on world-building and setup, and the emotional connection between the characters didn't quite bridge the gap to make me feel truly compelled by their plight.
Reading is a highly subjective experience, and sometimes a book can do everything right structurally while simply not clicking with a specific reader at that specific time. While The Flame in the Frost didn't pull me in enough to see Jack and Sylvanna's journey through to the end, it is undeniably a solid, polished piece of fiction. If you are a reader who thrives on heavy atmosphere, slow-burn tension, and highly detailed fantasy politics, this Norse-inspired romance might just be the perfect match for your bookshelf.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
sets up an atmospheric, high-stakes world right from its opening pages. Reimagining the mythos of Jack Frost through a mature, gritty lens, the story transports readers to the brutally frozen kingdom of Skadgard. At its core, the narrative follows Sylvanna Isenwulf, the newly appointed Captain of the Guard, and Prince Jökullson “Jack” Drakmyr, the cursed heir to the throne and Sylvanna's lifelong best friend. When Jack is forced into an arranged betrothal to secure a fragile political alliance, Sylvanna is tasked with escorting him through the perilous, creature-ridden Wildlands. Along the journey, the dangerous, invisible tether connecting their souls begins to strain under the weight of forbidden desire, duty to the crown, and a sinister, rising enemy.
On paper, this book has everything a "romantasy" fan could possibly crave: a rich winter setting, a foundational friends-to-lovers dynamic, deep political tension, and a brooding, cursed prince. From a technical standpoint, what I did read was undoubtedly well-written. Boothe has a talent for evocative prose, painting a vivid picture of Skadgard’s biting chill and formatting an intricate backdrop for her characters. The protagonists themselves were interesting and clearly possessed a lot of underlying complexity.
However, despite the strong writing and the promising premise, I ultimately had to step away and put this book down after hitting the 20% mark. For a book to fully take hold of me, I need a specific spark of momentum that makes it impossible to stop turning the pages, and unfortunately, I just wasn't finding myself invested here. The pacing at the beginning felt a bit heavy on world-building and setup, and the emotional connection between the characters didn't quite bridge the gap to make me feel truly compelled by their plight.
Reading is a highly subjective experience, and sometimes a book can do everything right structurally while simply not clicking with a specific reader at that specific time. While The Flame in the Frost didn't pull me in enough to see Jack and Sylvanna's journey through to the end, it is undeniably a solid, polished piece of fiction. If you are a reader who thrives on heavy atmosphere, slow-burn tension, and highly detailed fantasy politics, this Norse-inspired romance might just be the perfect match for your bookshelf.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2026
HOLY HELL. This book is going to be a HIT. I'm calling it now!
So, the beginning took me a little while to settle into. There is a lot of worldbuilding, a lot of names, a lot of history and lore being thrown at you, and I won't lie: your girl was hella confused. It’s so fast paced and a book pretty much starting with a 21 year old seeing her life’s work coming to fruition made me go “huh?”.
But listen. Just stick with it. It’s so worth it! Right when you wonder where this is going and if you should continue…
THERE IS FIGHTING
THERE IS BLOOD
THERE IS GORE
THERE IS MAGIC
AND THEN HE CALLS HER “MY LOVE”!
And from that moment on, you’re emotionally invested and there is NO. TURNING. BACK.
What happens when a prince and the captain of his royal guard find out nothing is as it seems?
❄️ Characters live up to their names (Jack Frost, Frost Queen, I’m looking at the both of you)
❄️ Magic is in more places than you’d expect…
❄️ The slowest of slow burns and at the same time it’s a raging fire that won’t be put out and you just can’t get enough of it
❄️ Spicy but in all the right ways…
❄️ Some bonds are built on friendship and years. Some bonds are made by fate and magic.
Norse mythology references? Loved them.
Norse vocabulary? Loved it more, tryggur…
Finding out there was a glossary in the back after I finished the book? Loved myself a little less for not figuring that out sooner.
And talking about the end of the book… Olivia Boothe sets up book two so perfectly. Just when all paths come together, they’re forced to split up. But the question is: will those paths ever lead back to each other?
An early read via NetGalley — feelings included.
So, the beginning took me a little while to settle into. There is a lot of worldbuilding, a lot of names, a lot of history and lore being thrown at you, and I won't lie: your girl was hella confused. It’s so fast paced and a book pretty much starting with a 21 year old seeing her life’s work coming to fruition made me go “huh?”.
But listen. Just stick with it. It’s so worth it! Right when you wonder where this is going and if you should continue…
THERE IS FIGHTING
THERE IS BLOOD
THERE IS GORE
THERE IS MAGIC
AND THEN HE CALLS HER “MY LOVE”!
And from that moment on, you’re emotionally invested and there is NO. TURNING. BACK.
What happens when a prince and the captain of his royal guard find out nothing is as it seems?
❄️ Characters live up to their names (Jack Frost, Frost Queen, I’m looking at the both of you)
❄️ Magic is in more places than you’d expect…
❄️ The slowest of slow burns and at the same time it’s a raging fire that won’t be put out and you just can’t get enough of it
❄️ Spicy but in all the right ways…
❄️ Some bonds are built on friendship and years. Some bonds are made by fate and magic.
Norse mythology references? Loved them.
Norse vocabulary? Loved it more, tryggur…
Finding out there was a glossary in the back after I finished the book? Loved myself a little less for not figuring that out sooner.
And talking about the end of the book… Olivia Boothe sets up book two so perfectly. Just when all paths come together, they’re forced to split up. But the question is: will those paths ever lead back to each other?
An early read via NetGalley — feelings included.
June 27, 2026
The Flame in the Frost is everything I want in a Norse-inspired romantasy. A Jack Frost reimagining? I was intrigued. Olivia Boothe completely exceeded my expectations. This is friends-to-lovers done right. The slow burn and yearning are so exquisitely crafted that every glance, every conversation, every “almost” feels monumental. The tension builds so naturally that by the time anything happens, you’re practically screaming at the pages. The world-building is immersive without ever feeling overwhelming, and the unique magic system made Skadgard feel alive. The writing flows effortlessly, making it easy to disappear into this frostbitten kingdom. The dual POV adds so much depth, and the side characters are just as compelling as the main cast. While this is absolutely a romantasy, don’t go in expecting a light fantasy romance. This is dark romantasy, and the story isn’t afraid to explore heavier themes alongside the romance and political intrigue. And that ending… diabolical. Olivia Boothe set up book two in the most deliciously cruel way, and I need it immediately. If you love Norse mythology, friends-to-lovers, painfully slow burn, longing that borders on torture, rich world-building, and romances that make you earn every moment, put this one on your TBR. I will never look at Jack Frost the same way again. Thank you to NetGalley and Three Brothers Press for the advanced reader copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 26, 2026
Looking for a Norse inspired dark romantasy with a morally gray FROST DADDY and a deliciously agonizing slow burn?
Trust me - THIS is your next obsession
My Thoughts:
Where do I even start?! Never in a million years did I think I'd become completely FERAL over a Jack Frost retelling. BUT, OH. MY. GODS. Olivia Boothe made me learn something new about myself, and I AM NOT OKAY. Y'all, first off, Sylvi, the FMC and Captain of the Guard, is fierce, loyal, and carries this vulnerability that makes her feel so real. Her character is so beautifully done, and I can honestly say she is now one of my favorite FMCs ever written. Now, for Jack, ohhhh Jökullson Drakmyr, there aren't words strong enough to describe the angst and yearning he brings to the story. He is ready to let the world burn for her, and by god, the way I SQUEALED when he said: "Can't what, little monster?" Listen, this man has a way with words that even has ME completely undone. And just when I didn't think this book could become any more addictive - we are hit with some serious action, ancient prophecies, AND a cliffhanger that has thrown me into a full-blown spiral.
Thank you so much to R&R Book Tours and Olivia Boothe for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Trust me - THIS is your next obsession
My Thoughts:
Where do I even start?! Never in a million years did I think I'd become completely FERAL over a Jack Frost retelling. BUT, OH. MY. GODS. Olivia Boothe made me learn something new about myself, and I AM NOT OKAY. Y'all, first off, Sylvi, the FMC and Captain of the Guard, is fierce, loyal, and carries this vulnerability that makes her feel so real. Her character is so beautifully done, and I can honestly say she is now one of my favorite FMCs ever written. Now, for Jack, ohhhh Jökullson Drakmyr, there aren't words strong enough to describe the angst and yearning he brings to the story. He is ready to let the world burn for her, and by god, the way I SQUEALED when he said: "Can't what, little monster?" Listen, this man has a way with words that even has ME completely undone. And just when I didn't think this book could become any more addictive - we are hit with some serious action, ancient prophecies, AND a cliffhanger that has thrown me into a full-blown spiral.
Thank you so much to R&R Book Tours and Olivia Boothe for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 30, 2026
The Flame in the Frost has great bones for a story! Unfortunately, it was bogged down by the slow pace and unwieldy long descriptions that made it hard for me to get through. The last 10% of the book was the most interesting part, fast and exciting! I wish it hadn't taken so long to get there though, especially because it ended on a cliffhanger. A lot of new lore was dumped in the last few chapters that could have been explored earlier on. Most of the book was spent repeating plot lines (one of them gets hurt, they heal fast, they kiss, get interrupted by an attack, rinse and repeat). I also just unfortunately wasn't feeling it between Jack and Sylvi, nor do I even really like the characters. I felt more chemistry between Sylvi and Leoric and he was only in one chapter. I'm glad I stuck it out though if only for those last few chapters. If this book were to be tightened up a bit, it would be such a fantastic read! I'm open to reading the sequel in the hopes that the parts I did like about this book would be continued.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this e-arc!
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this e-arc!
June 27, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Olivia Booth for the ARC.
I was intrigued by the premise of this book and found myself absolutely loving it! This story is a Nordic inspired Jack Frost retelling with forbidden romance, friends to lovers, political intrigue, high stakes and heaps of yearning. I was skeptical about how a Jack Frost retelling, with reference to Santa, could work but I was pleasantly surprised.
Firstly, the romance is at the forefront of this story and the two main characters yearn for each other deeply. However, the fantasy elements, such as the world building and magic system, were still beautifully written. The authors writing was poetic and atmospheric, it felt like I was watching a movie in my mind.
There were times when the plot felt slow, particularly during moments of internal monologue. However, the story made up for it from about half way through when things started to click into place and the plot sped up. The last 20% of the story had me sitting on the edge of my seat and the cliffhanger has me desperate to know what happens next!
I was intrigued by the premise of this book and found myself absolutely loving it! This story is a Nordic inspired Jack Frost retelling with forbidden romance, friends to lovers, political intrigue, high stakes and heaps of yearning. I was skeptical about how a Jack Frost retelling, with reference to Santa, could work but I was pleasantly surprised.
Firstly, the romance is at the forefront of this story and the two main characters yearn for each other deeply. However, the fantasy elements, such as the world building and magic system, were still beautifully written. The authors writing was poetic and atmospheric, it felt like I was watching a movie in my mind.
There were times when the plot felt slow, particularly during moments of internal monologue. However, the story made up for it from about half way through when things started to click into place and the plot sped up. The last 20% of the story had me sitting on the edge of my seat and the cliffhanger has me desperate to know what happens next!
April 22, 2026
The slow burn.. OMG THE SLOW BURN in this book!!!!
I really didn’t know what to expect of this winter/Icelandic/Jack Frost reimagining but it was not this delectable friends to lovers, royal fae dark romance fantasy with mythology and erased history and more plot twists and turns then I could have ever imagined!
The loyalty, the yearning and the devoted love between the main characters had me absolutely enthralled. I loved that the FMC is the captain of the guard and the MMC is the Prince with insane levels of magic. Their dynamic kept me on my toes the ENTIRE book. Epic battles, royal politics, evil princesses, creepy AF beasts in the woods… I ate it all up!!!
And the last few chapters absolutely have me chomping at the bit for the next one! Unreal revelations and truths made for a mind blowing cliffhanger end.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC opportunity!
I really didn’t know what to expect of this winter/Icelandic/Jack Frost reimagining but it was not this delectable friends to lovers, royal fae dark romance fantasy with mythology and erased history and more plot twists and turns then I could have ever imagined!
The loyalty, the yearning and the devoted love between the main characters had me absolutely enthralled. I loved that the FMC is the captain of the guard and the MMC is the Prince with insane levels of magic. Their dynamic kept me on my toes the ENTIRE book. Epic battles, royal politics, evil princesses, creepy AF beasts in the woods… I ate it all up!!!
And the last few chapters absolutely have me chomping at the bit for the next one! Unreal revelations and truths made for a mind blowing cliffhanger end.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC opportunity!
June 30, 2026
4.25⭐/5
The besties-to-fated-mates romance in this story had some really good satisfying vibes…the connection between Sylvi and Jack was so strong and emotional and endearing. The nicknames in this book got me easily, though the push and pull kept me struggling a bit but I was definitely rooting for them every time something pulled them apart (which happened so often)…the tension and yearning were so good, and even I WAS YEARNING for them to catch a break and enjoy each other forever! I enjoyed the magical fantasy of the world building and how much depth was put into really getting immersed. It was unpredictable in a fun way and the ending left me like whatttt, so book 2 is a must.
Thank you to the author and the NerdFam and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy, this review is given voluntarily.
The besties-to-fated-mates romance in this story had some really good satisfying vibes…the connection between Sylvi and Jack was so strong and emotional and endearing. The nicknames in this book got me easily, though the push and pull kept me struggling a bit but I was definitely rooting for them every time something pulled them apart (which happened so often)…the tension and yearning were so good, and even I WAS YEARNING for them to catch a break and enjoy each other forever! I enjoyed the magical fantasy of the world building and how much depth was put into really getting immersed. It was unpredictable in a fun way and the ending left me like whatttt, so book 2 is a must.
Thank you to the author and the NerdFam and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy, this review is given voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 487 reviews