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Fairy Queens #1-3
Fairy Queens: Books 1-4
The end of an age comes—an ending of fire and ash.
The magic is searching for its new form to begin a new age, even as it struggles to survive the death throes of the old. That magic has chosen two women—one of fire, the other of ice. If they can’t stop the destruction, nothing can.
Of Ice and Snow
Otec thought destiny forgot him…
The middle child of the clanchief, Otec is the overlooked son in an overflowing house. He dreams of escape and adventure, so when a mysterious stranger offers both, he doesn’t need persuading. But when his faraway village comes under attack, Otec will do anything to save the people he loves. Cut off from his nation, he must trust a foreign woman with a dubious past as they race to save his clan. But nothing is what it seems, and Otec may have to trust his enemy if he is to become the leader he was never meant to be.
Destiny is not always kind.
Winter Queen
As winter’s touch freezes Ilyenna’s heart and soul, will she be able to hold onto love to keep her humanity?
A dying man delivers a terrible a civil war has begun between neighboring clans. As healer and clanmistress, Ilyenna is tasked with keeping the wounded alive and fed in the midst of an endless winter.
But when the war moves to the heart of her village, Ilyenna looks into her enemy’s eyes and sees more than just cunning. There is also lust—lust for power and lust for her. She finds herself faced with an impossible choice—seize the fairies’ dark magic and lose her humanity, or risk facing the enemy alone.
Of Fire and Ash
*A novella*
One promise can change everything.
The fairies must never know of Nelay’s sight, for the attention of such dark and terrible creatures brings more things dark and terrible. But when Nelay's father is near death, the fairies are the only ones who can save him. All they require is a simple promise that she'll return the favor one day.
Some promises are lethal.
Summer Queen
Nelay never wanted to be queen. Poised to become the most powerful priestess in Idara, Nelay doesn’t have time to become a pretty bauble for the king. She’s too busy saving her people from the invading army sweeping across her kingdom.
But in defeat after defeat, Nelay begins to realize a bigger power is at play than that wielded by mere mortals. Only she can stand between the cinders of her once-great nation and the vengeance of a goddess.
The magic is searching for its new form to begin a new age, even as it struggles to survive the death throes of the old. That magic has chosen two women—one of fire, the other of ice. If they can’t stop the destruction, nothing can.
Of Ice and Snow
Otec thought destiny forgot him…
The middle child of the clanchief, Otec is the overlooked son in an overflowing house. He dreams of escape and adventure, so when a mysterious stranger offers both, he doesn’t need persuading. But when his faraway village comes under attack, Otec will do anything to save the people he loves. Cut off from his nation, he must trust a foreign woman with a dubious past as they race to save his clan. But nothing is what it seems, and Otec may have to trust his enemy if he is to become the leader he was never meant to be.
Destiny is not always kind.
Winter Queen
As winter’s touch freezes Ilyenna’s heart and soul, will she be able to hold onto love to keep her humanity?
A dying man delivers a terrible a civil war has begun between neighboring clans. As healer and clanmistress, Ilyenna is tasked with keeping the wounded alive and fed in the midst of an endless winter.
But when the war moves to the heart of her village, Ilyenna looks into her enemy’s eyes and sees more than just cunning. There is also lust—lust for power and lust for her. She finds herself faced with an impossible choice—seize the fairies’ dark magic and lose her humanity, or risk facing the enemy alone.
Of Fire and Ash
*A novella*
One promise can change everything.
The fairies must never know of Nelay’s sight, for the attention of such dark and terrible creatures brings more things dark and terrible. But when Nelay's father is near death, the fairies are the only ones who can save him. All they require is a simple promise that she'll return the favor one day.
Some promises are lethal.
Summer Queen
Nelay never wanted to be queen. Poised to become the most powerful priestess in Idara, Nelay doesn’t have time to become a pretty bauble for the king. She’s too busy saving her people from the invading army sweeping across her kingdom.
But in defeat after defeat, Nelay begins to realize a bigger power is at play than that wielded by mere mortals. Only she can stand between the cinders of her once-great nation and the vengeance of a goddess.
- GenresFantasy
788 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2016
109 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Amber Argyle
30 books1,095 followersAmber Argyle is the bestselling fantasy & romance author of the Forbidden Forest, Fairy Queens, Witch Song, & Wild Heart Ranch Romance series. Her award-winning books have been translated into several languages and praised by such authors as NYT bestsellers David Farland and Jennifer A. Nielsen.
Amber grew up on a cattle ranch and spent her formative years in the rodeo circuit and on the basketball court. She graduated cum laude from Utah State University. She’s delightfully sarcastic, loves all things outdoors, and believes spiders should be relegated to horror novels where they belong.
She has completed three series and is working on a fourth.
To receive her starter library of four free books, simply tell her where to send it: http://amberargyle.com/freebooks/
Amber grew up on a cattle ranch and spent her formative years in the rodeo circuit and on the basketball court. She graduated cum laude from Utah State University. She’s delightfully sarcastic, loves all things outdoors, and believes spiders should be relegated to horror novels where they belong.
She has completed three series and is working on a fourth.
To receive her starter library of four free books, simply tell her where to send it: http://amberargyle.com/freebooks/
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 16, 2016
OF ICE AND SNOW
Otec has always been the overlooked son of an overflowing house. When a young woman, Matka, one of the highmen staying in his village, wants to look for a plant, he is happy to help. When he is away, his home is attacked he must find a way to save his family but can he trust Matka as he is not sure if she is friend or foe. Is Otec willing to become the leader he never thought he would be.
I really enjoyed Of Ice and Snow, the prequel novella to Winter Queen as it tells us of how Ilyenna’s parents met. It is fast paced and full of action and Amber wrote from a male POV well.
I really liked Otec as he feels like he is the useless son who is not good enough, but he is brave, kind and very protective of his family. I liked Matka as she is willing to help people she doesn’t really know but I would have liked some chapters from her POV as it would have helped getting to know her better.
I really liked this prequel novella and I hope to read the rest of Daring Hearts soon. I would recommend Of Ice and Snow to fans of Winter Queen or any of Amber Argyle’s other books.
WINTER QUEEN
After the Shyle and there ally clan Argon are attacked by another clan the Tyron, 17 year old Ilyenna is mortally wounded by the Tyron’s Clan Chief’s son Darrien, but she is healed by the winter fairies and is offered the ability to become the Winter Queen. Unwilling to leave her family she declines this offer only to sacrifice herself as an Tiam, practically a slave, to Darrien to save her clan, along with other women of her and Argon clan and the some of the Argon men, including her brother’s best friend Rone. While in captivity Darrien tries everything to break her mind, body and soul, however she discovers that the attack was part of a bigger plan to overthrow all the clans. Now Ilyenna has to decide if she is willing to sacrifice her humanity and warmth to become Winter Queen to save her people and those she loves.
Winter Queen is an incredible and magical YA fantasy book which I love by Amber Argyle. Even though this is darker and more grown up than the Witch Song series, it still has all the elements I love in a fantasy book, romance, adventure, magic and a strong heroine.
I really like Ilyenna as she is loyal to her people and no matter what happens to her, she is strong, kind and selfless. All the other characters are well written, even the bad guys, and there are so many characters that I have enjoyed getting to know. I really like the romance in this book as it is mature but at the same time sweet and tender.
Even through the story did not go the way I thought it would when I read the blurb, it is more unique than I could have imagined especially the fairies as they play a very important part in this book but it is in a subtle way. I like the depth of this book and how the magic worked as the idea of the Balance is such a simple idea but is also very clever and complex.
I am not sure if the next book Summer Queen is a continuation of Ilyenna story or someone else’s from this world, but either way, I cannot wait to see what Argyle will do next and I hope it is released as soon as possible. I would recommend Winter Queen to everyone, but especially to people who like YA fantasy novels such as books by Maria V Snyder or Trudi Canavan.
OF FIRE AND ASH
For all of Nelay life she has seen fairies but her mother has told her that she must not let the fairies know she can see them or Nelay will pay a high price. However, when her father is bitten by a snake, Nelay’s only choice to save him is to turn to the fairies, but they require in that one day she must repay the favour. As all deals with the fairies come with a price, will this change Nelay’s life forever?
Of Fire and Ash is a very good YA fantasy novella, with an interesting look at the back story for Summer Queen. Although it is not a long book, it is enjoyable and a well-rounded story.
I liked Nelay as she was a nice and resistant little girl who was really caring. I did not like her brother, Panar as he was horrible and really jealous, and I think he is going to play a key role in Summer Queen. While I liked Nelay’s parents as they really cared about their children, I don’t believe that they didn’t see how Panar treated Nelay.
I am really looking forward to reading Summer Queen after this, and I would recommend Of Fire and Ash to fans of Amber Argyle, especially those who enjoyed the Fairy Queens series.
SUMMER QUEEN
Nelay never wanted to be queen, she wanted to become the most powerful priestess in Idara, but with an army sweeping towards her family she is willing to risk everything and to manipulate the king to get aid. She sets off on a journey across Idara with a band of tribesmen smugglers, led by the charming Rycus, in the hopes of getting to her parents on time. However, there are bigger powers at play and a deal made years ago will change Nelay’s fate forever. With a war waged between mortals, fairies and goddesses, will Nelay be able to stop Idara being turn to ash.
Summer Queen is the brilliant sequel to Winter Queen as there was action, adventure, romance and magic. There was never a dull moment in the book and I did not want to put it down, but I also never got overwhelmed with too much info either. While you don’t need to read Winter Queen to enjoy this book, I would recommend it as it is adds to the story, I would also recommend reading the prequel short story to this Of Fire and Ash as it gives a good insight into Nelay and her past.
I really loved Nelay’s character as she was brave, determined and willing do anything for those she cares about, even if they don’t deserve it. I also liked that she was intelligent and was never timid, while her character grew in this book she always knew she was capable. I also really liked Rycus as he was protective and balanced Nelay really well, plus I do have a soft spot for storytellers. Another character I liked was Nelay’s best friend Jezzel but I did wish she was in this book more than she was.
This is an amazing book and I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the Fairy Queens series, Daughter of Winter. I would recommend Summer Queen to fans of the First Book Winter Queen and the Fairy Queens series, plus Ambers other books, to all fans of YA fantasy novels.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
Otec has always been the overlooked son of an overflowing house. When a young woman, Matka, one of the highmen staying in his village, wants to look for a plant, he is happy to help. When he is away, his home is attacked he must find a way to save his family but can he trust Matka as he is not sure if she is friend or foe. Is Otec willing to become the leader he never thought he would be.
I really enjoyed Of Ice and Snow, the prequel novella to Winter Queen as it tells us of how Ilyenna’s parents met. It is fast paced and full of action and Amber wrote from a male POV well.
I really liked Otec as he feels like he is the useless son who is not good enough, but he is brave, kind and very protective of his family. I liked Matka as she is willing to help people she doesn’t really know but I would have liked some chapters from her POV as it would have helped getting to know her better.
I really liked this prequel novella and I hope to read the rest of Daring Hearts soon. I would recommend Of Ice and Snow to fans of Winter Queen or any of Amber Argyle’s other books.
WINTER QUEEN
After the Shyle and there ally clan Argon are attacked by another clan the Tyron, 17 year old Ilyenna is mortally wounded by the Tyron’s Clan Chief’s son Darrien, but she is healed by the winter fairies and is offered the ability to become the Winter Queen. Unwilling to leave her family she declines this offer only to sacrifice herself as an Tiam, practically a slave, to Darrien to save her clan, along with other women of her and Argon clan and the some of the Argon men, including her brother’s best friend Rone. While in captivity Darrien tries everything to break her mind, body and soul, however she discovers that the attack was part of a bigger plan to overthrow all the clans. Now Ilyenna has to decide if she is willing to sacrifice her humanity and warmth to become Winter Queen to save her people and those she loves.
Winter Queen is an incredible and magical YA fantasy book which I love by Amber Argyle. Even though this is darker and more grown up than the Witch Song series, it still has all the elements I love in a fantasy book, romance, adventure, magic and a strong heroine.
I really like Ilyenna as she is loyal to her people and no matter what happens to her, she is strong, kind and selfless. All the other characters are well written, even the bad guys, and there are so many characters that I have enjoyed getting to know. I really like the romance in this book as it is mature but at the same time sweet and tender.
Even through the story did not go the way I thought it would when I read the blurb, it is more unique than I could have imagined especially the fairies as they play a very important part in this book but it is in a subtle way. I like the depth of this book and how the magic worked as the idea of the Balance is such a simple idea but is also very clever and complex.
I am not sure if the next book Summer Queen is a continuation of Ilyenna story or someone else’s from this world, but either way, I cannot wait to see what Argyle will do next and I hope it is released as soon as possible. I would recommend Winter Queen to everyone, but especially to people who like YA fantasy novels such as books by Maria V Snyder or Trudi Canavan.
OF FIRE AND ASH
For all of Nelay life she has seen fairies but her mother has told her that she must not let the fairies know she can see them or Nelay will pay a high price. However, when her father is bitten by a snake, Nelay’s only choice to save him is to turn to the fairies, but they require in that one day she must repay the favour. As all deals with the fairies come with a price, will this change Nelay’s life forever?
Of Fire and Ash is a very good YA fantasy novella, with an interesting look at the back story for Summer Queen. Although it is not a long book, it is enjoyable and a well-rounded story.
I liked Nelay as she was a nice and resistant little girl who was really caring. I did not like her brother, Panar as he was horrible and really jealous, and I think he is going to play a key role in Summer Queen. While I liked Nelay’s parents as they really cared about their children, I don’t believe that they didn’t see how Panar treated Nelay.
I am really looking forward to reading Summer Queen after this, and I would recommend Of Fire and Ash to fans of Amber Argyle, especially those who enjoyed the Fairy Queens series.
SUMMER QUEEN
Nelay never wanted to be queen, she wanted to become the most powerful priestess in Idara, but with an army sweeping towards her family she is willing to risk everything and to manipulate the king to get aid. She sets off on a journey across Idara with a band of tribesmen smugglers, led by the charming Rycus, in the hopes of getting to her parents on time. However, there are bigger powers at play and a deal made years ago will change Nelay’s fate forever. With a war waged between mortals, fairies and goddesses, will Nelay be able to stop Idara being turn to ash.
Summer Queen is the brilliant sequel to Winter Queen as there was action, adventure, romance and magic. There was never a dull moment in the book and I did not want to put it down, but I also never got overwhelmed with too much info either. While you don’t need to read Winter Queen to enjoy this book, I would recommend it as it is adds to the story, I would also recommend reading the prequel short story to this Of Fire and Ash as it gives a good insight into Nelay and her past.
I really loved Nelay’s character as she was brave, determined and willing do anything for those she cares about, even if they don’t deserve it. I also liked that she was intelligent and was never timid, while her character grew in this book she always knew she was capable. I also really liked Rycus as he was protective and balanced Nelay really well, plus I do have a soft spot for storytellers. Another character I liked was Nelay’s best friend Jezzel but I did wish she was in this book more than she was.
This is an amazing book and I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the Fairy Queens series, Daughter of Winter. I would recommend Summer Queen to fans of the First Book Winter Queen and the Fairy Queens series, plus Ambers other books, to all fans of YA fantasy novels.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
February 20, 2017
I'm very proud of this series.
June 14, 2016
OF ICE AND SNOW:
I'm a huge fan of Amber's Fairy Queen series - it's dark and gritty, but also full of beautiful world-building, memorable (and sometimes terrifying) characters, and even a few glimpses of hope and light through the horrors of war. I also really love novellas that reveal the background of more minor characters, so I knew I had to read this story as soon as I heard the Amber was writing it.
In this novella, we're given a little bit more insight into Ilyenna's parents before the start of Winter Queen. We get to see how they meet, and how they deal with all kinds of awful circumstances that are out of their control. Otec is a middle child - he's not old enough to go with his brothers and father to meet the coming army, and he definitely will never be clanchief. Except destiny has a different plan for him, and his entire world is flipped upside down when the Shyle is attacked. But even in the midst of trying to save his family and his people, Otec manages to find love.
The romance is definitely a big part of the story, but Amber still somehow manages to weave an exciting story that has so many different facets that the romance doesn't overwhelm the rest of the plot. Matka is dangerous and cunning all on her own, and guards her heart just as much, if not more, as Otec guards his. I loved watching their friendship develop and transform into something more, through perceived betrayals, interfering fairies, and the loss of loved ones.
If you haven't read the rest of the Fairy Queen series, this story will still stand on its own. You don't need to know much else before diving right into this book, and it might be a good place to start. If you have read the Fairy Queen books though, you definitely want to read this novella! There are so many references and connections to things in both Winter Queen and Summer Queen, and it was a lot of fun to be able to recognize those. It makes the entire series stronger and gives the world and the characters so much more depth. If you love fantasy, especially books like the Graceling series, you definitely want to read these books! 5/5.
WINTER QUEEN:
This book was everything I hoped for, and more. There was adventure, mystery, heartache, romance, twists and turns, magic, and just everything a good story should have (in my opinion). I absolutely love Argyle's writing style, and her world building is phenomenal in this book. As I was reading, I felt like I was actually in Ilyenna's world, and that I could see the fairies the way she sees them. Which I also thought was excellently done, I'm so glad they were disguised and could only be found if you knew where to look. I think it adds to the magic of them, and to the magic associated with Winter and Summer.
I also really loved the characters in this book. Although Darrien is a total jerk and deserves every bad thing that happens to him, he's actually a really interesting character. I wish we had seen more of his brother, because I pictured them to be dynamic opposites and I'm really interested to see how that would have played out. I enjoyed reading about Ilyenna's transformation from being so unsure of herself to becoming a strong, powerful, independent woman, and I'm so glad she never lost sight of her honesty and trustworthiness. And then, of course, there's Rone. I liked his character, but I wish we had seen him more in depth. I feel like I don't really know him as much as I would have liked.
Although it took me a few chapters to get into this book, the story really gets going after that and I didn't want to put the book down until the very end. There's just so much happening, and so many layers (like a parfait!)that I had to pull a late night in order to appease my curiosity. And that really didn't help too much, since now I want to know what's next for Ilyenna and Rone. And the Shyle.
I could seriously gush about this book all day, but I really think you should go read it for yourself. Especially if you're interested in fantasy novels with strong heroines. Or females that end up being strong heroines. Or if you just really like Amber Argyle's other books, because this is definitely the best one yet. 5/5, and I can't wait for the sequel!
OF FIRE AND ASH:
I first stumbled across Amber Argyle a few years ago, when her book Witch Song was free on Amazon. I have eagerly devoured every single thing she has written that I could get my hands on since, and I'm always left wanting more! So you can imagine my excitement when I found out Amber was writing a short prequel novelette for the upcoming second book in her Fairy Queens series, Summer Queen.
Of Fire and Ash was pretty short - around 68 pages - but it was still jam-packed with all of the things that I love about Amber's books. There's a significant amount of world building without shoving it down your throat and there's q huge amount of background on Nelay, the main character in Summer Queen. I'm really glad that I got to learn more about how Nelay's journey toward becoming the powerful priestess that she is in Summer Queen began. I loved getting to know Nelay as a child, because I think that will help me (and other readers) understand her as the woman she becomes.
This novelette also sheds quite a bit of light on the fairies and what happens when they learn you can see them. Or what happens when you ask for their help. Everything comes at a price, and sometimes the price might be too steep... although it might be too late. After reading Winter Queen, I had so many questions about the fairies, and Of Fire and Ash definitely answered a couple of the more minor ones.
What Amber does best though, is give just enough of a story that I'm left wanting the next installment ASAP! I have to know what happens to Nelay next, and what will happen when the fairies call in their favor for saving her father. I want to know what she's like after she grows up, and I want to know if she's able to save her people. Of Fire and Ash was enough to get me back into this incredible world, and I cannot wait to read Summer Queen! A 5/5 for sure!
SUMMER QUEEN:
I absolutely loved Winter Queen when I first read it, and it's still one of my favorite fantasy books ever. Amber knows how to craft an incredible world with wonderful characters who continue to live on well past the ending of the books. So when I was given the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Summer Queen, I immediately jumped on the chance! I couldn't wait to get back into this world and meet characters on the opposite side of the spectrum from those featured in Winter Queen. And I was not disappointed!
Nelay is not like any other priestess I've encountered in any of the books I've read. She's strong and independent and can hold her own in a fight, but she's also loving and willing to do anything to protect the people she cares about. She's also got a mischievous side to her, which I thought makes her hilarious. Nelay is also incredibly cunning, and she's always trying to figure out how to play things to her advantage. She's not afraid to back down from a fight she knows she cannot win, which I felt made her a dangerous enemy to have. I loved Illyenna in Winter Queen, but I honestly think that I love Nelay even more!
And then there's Rycus. Oh, Rycus. He's kind of off-putting at first, but then the more time we spend with him, the more I fell in love with him. He's absolutely fantastic for Nelay, and I think one of my favorite things in this book was watching their relationship develop. Except for those times when Amber does this thing where she gives me a mini heart attack and separates them and makes it seem like they're not meant to be together. I was so back and forth and I just could never figure out what surprises were in store!
Like all of Amber's other books, Summer Queen has gorgeous world-building. In Winter Queen, we learn about the lands of the Clansmen. In Summer Queen, the world is expanded and we learn more about the cities and the people who live in them, as well as the Tribesmen who live in the deserts. I can't wait to learn even more about this world and its people in the next book! The plot also moves along smoothly and quickly, and I never felt like anything was dragging along (even though this book is fairly long).
I would 100% recommend Summer Queen to anyone who has read Winter Queen, and the whole Fairy Queens series to fans of YA Fantasy. Especially if you enjoyed Rae Carson's Girl of Fire and Thorns series, and other books like it. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next installment (waiting is so hard!)! 5/5!!!
I'm a huge fan of Amber's Fairy Queen series - it's dark and gritty, but also full of beautiful world-building, memorable (and sometimes terrifying) characters, and even a few glimpses of hope and light through the horrors of war. I also really love novellas that reveal the background of more minor characters, so I knew I had to read this story as soon as I heard the Amber was writing it.
In this novella, we're given a little bit more insight into Ilyenna's parents before the start of Winter Queen. We get to see how they meet, and how they deal with all kinds of awful circumstances that are out of their control. Otec is a middle child - he's not old enough to go with his brothers and father to meet the coming army, and he definitely will never be clanchief. Except destiny has a different plan for him, and his entire world is flipped upside down when the Shyle is attacked. But even in the midst of trying to save his family and his people, Otec manages to find love.
The romance is definitely a big part of the story, but Amber still somehow manages to weave an exciting story that has so many different facets that the romance doesn't overwhelm the rest of the plot. Matka is dangerous and cunning all on her own, and guards her heart just as much, if not more, as Otec guards his. I loved watching their friendship develop and transform into something more, through perceived betrayals, interfering fairies, and the loss of loved ones.
If you haven't read the rest of the Fairy Queen series, this story will still stand on its own. You don't need to know much else before diving right into this book, and it might be a good place to start. If you have read the Fairy Queen books though, you definitely want to read this novella! There are so many references and connections to things in both Winter Queen and Summer Queen, and it was a lot of fun to be able to recognize those. It makes the entire series stronger and gives the world and the characters so much more depth. If you love fantasy, especially books like the Graceling series, you definitely want to read these books! 5/5.
WINTER QUEEN:
This book was everything I hoped for, and more. There was adventure, mystery, heartache, romance, twists and turns, magic, and just everything a good story should have (in my opinion). I absolutely love Argyle's writing style, and her world building is phenomenal in this book. As I was reading, I felt like I was actually in Ilyenna's world, and that I could see the fairies the way she sees them. Which I also thought was excellently done, I'm so glad they were disguised and could only be found if you knew where to look. I think it adds to the magic of them, and to the magic associated with Winter and Summer.
I also really loved the characters in this book. Although Darrien is a total jerk and deserves every bad thing that happens to him, he's actually a really interesting character. I wish we had seen more of his brother, because I pictured them to be dynamic opposites and I'm really interested to see how that would have played out. I enjoyed reading about Ilyenna's transformation from being so unsure of herself to becoming a strong, powerful, independent woman, and I'm so glad she never lost sight of her honesty and trustworthiness. And then, of course, there's Rone. I liked his character, but I wish we had seen him more in depth. I feel like I don't really know him as much as I would have liked.
Although it took me a few chapters to get into this book, the story really gets going after that and I didn't want to put the book down until the very end. There's just so much happening, and so many layers (like a parfait!)that I had to pull a late night in order to appease my curiosity. And that really didn't help too much, since now I want to know what's next for Ilyenna and Rone. And the Shyle.
I could seriously gush about this book all day, but I really think you should go read it for yourself. Especially if you're interested in fantasy novels with strong heroines. Or females that end up being strong heroines. Or if you just really like Amber Argyle's other books, because this is definitely the best one yet. 5/5, and I can't wait for the sequel!
OF FIRE AND ASH:
I first stumbled across Amber Argyle a few years ago, when her book Witch Song was free on Amazon. I have eagerly devoured every single thing she has written that I could get my hands on since, and I'm always left wanting more! So you can imagine my excitement when I found out Amber was writing a short prequel novelette for the upcoming second book in her Fairy Queens series, Summer Queen.
Of Fire and Ash was pretty short - around 68 pages - but it was still jam-packed with all of the things that I love about Amber's books. There's a significant amount of world building without shoving it down your throat and there's q huge amount of background on Nelay, the main character in Summer Queen. I'm really glad that I got to learn more about how Nelay's journey toward becoming the powerful priestess that she is in Summer Queen began. I loved getting to know Nelay as a child, because I think that will help me (and other readers) understand her as the woman she becomes.
This novelette also sheds quite a bit of light on the fairies and what happens when they learn you can see them. Or what happens when you ask for their help. Everything comes at a price, and sometimes the price might be too steep... although it might be too late. After reading Winter Queen, I had so many questions about the fairies, and Of Fire and Ash definitely answered a couple of the more minor ones.
What Amber does best though, is give just enough of a story that I'm left wanting the next installment ASAP! I have to know what happens to Nelay next, and what will happen when the fairies call in their favor for saving her father. I want to know what she's like after she grows up, and I want to know if she's able to save her people. Of Fire and Ash was enough to get me back into this incredible world, and I cannot wait to read Summer Queen! A 5/5 for sure!
SUMMER QUEEN:
I absolutely loved Winter Queen when I first read it, and it's still one of my favorite fantasy books ever. Amber knows how to craft an incredible world with wonderful characters who continue to live on well past the ending of the books. So when I was given the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Summer Queen, I immediately jumped on the chance! I couldn't wait to get back into this world and meet characters on the opposite side of the spectrum from those featured in Winter Queen. And I was not disappointed!
Nelay is not like any other priestess I've encountered in any of the books I've read. She's strong and independent and can hold her own in a fight, but she's also loving and willing to do anything to protect the people she cares about. She's also got a mischievous side to her, which I thought makes her hilarious. Nelay is also incredibly cunning, and she's always trying to figure out how to play things to her advantage. She's not afraid to back down from a fight she knows she cannot win, which I felt made her a dangerous enemy to have. I loved Illyenna in Winter Queen, but I honestly think that I love Nelay even more!
And then there's Rycus. Oh, Rycus. He's kind of off-putting at first, but then the more time we spend with him, the more I fell in love with him. He's absolutely fantastic for Nelay, and I think one of my favorite things in this book was watching their relationship develop. Except for those times when Amber does this thing where she gives me a mini heart attack and separates them and makes it seem like they're not meant to be together. I was so back and forth and I just could never figure out what surprises were in store!
Like all of Amber's other books, Summer Queen has gorgeous world-building. In Winter Queen, we learn about the lands of the Clansmen. In Summer Queen, the world is expanded and we learn more about the cities and the people who live in them, as well as the Tribesmen who live in the deserts. I can't wait to learn even more about this world and its people in the next book! The plot also moves along smoothly and quickly, and I never felt like anything was dragging along (even though this book is fairly long).
I would 100% recommend Summer Queen to anyone who has read Winter Queen, and the whole Fairy Queens series to fans of YA Fantasy. Especially if you enjoyed Rae Carson's Girl of Fire and Thorns series, and other books like it. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next installment (waiting is so hard!)! 5/5!!!
January 11, 2020
1st book was surprisingly good, a 3-star read. The romance was insta-love, but not the main focus. The fighting scenes were good and I appreciated that since they did a lot of fighting in a short time, the main character had aches and pains.
2d book – I hate
The part with Ilyenna in the enemy territory is a slog. The characters are interesting, but the plot isn’t.
At first I thought this would turn into the dreaded love triangle between Ilyenna, Darren and Rone, but thankfully, Darren is a disgusting monster, so I don’t think that will happen.
And finally, just as I thought of dnf-ing, the slog is over.
Then it’s insta-love at it’s finest!
I swear, if he starts regretting it for no reason, I will tear my hair out. (spoiler: he did. /sigh)
I guess they won’t work out, which, come to think of it, is a good thing, since she’ll become the winter queen.
…and she’s pregnant. This is starting to become cliché after cliché.
She saw what happened with Metha and now she’s basically in the same position.
Suddenly, a wild Darren appeared.
Of course they couldn’t just kill them and get it over with.
Illyenna is making me so angry right now. She is such an idiot.
Needless to say, I won’t continue the books.
I was also amused at the names, because they aren't even names, just words in a different language. (Otrok means child, and Konj horse. Later there’s a girl named Dekle, which means girl.
Volna Plesti – Wool, knitting. And the fairy’s name is Jablana – Apple tree.)
2d book – I hate
The part with Ilyenna in the enemy territory is a slog. The characters are interesting, but the plot isn’t.
At first I thought this would turn into the dreaded love triangle between Ilyenna, Darren and Rone, but thankfully, Darren is a disgusting monster, so I don’t think that will happen.
And finally, just as I thought of dnf-ing, the slog is over.
Then it’s insta-love at it’s finest!
I swear, if he starts regretting it for no reason, I will tear my hair out. (spoiler: he did. /sigh)
I guess they won’t work out, which, come to think of it, is a good thing, since she’ll become the winter queen.
…and she’s pregnant. This is starting to become cliché after cliché.
She saw what happened with Metha and now she’s basically in the same position.
Suddenly, a wild Darren appeared.
Of course they couldn’t just kill them and get it over with.
Illyenna is making me so angry right now. She is such an idiot.
Needless to say, I won’t continue the books.
I was also amused at the names, because they aren't even names, just words in a different language. (Otrok means child, and Konj horse. Later there’s a girl named Dekle, which means girl.
Volna Plesti – Wool, knitting. And the fairy’s name is Jablana – Apple tree.)
January 29, 2018
Note: I previously placed a review for two of the four books in this series, then later found that I could have commented on the entire set of books 1-4, which I purchased, and loved. This review somewhat repeats and expands upon what I said in the other comments.
This series was excellent!
Enjoyed these books very much. I highly recommend them!
Engaged me at book 1, page 1, and I could not stop until finishing all four books.
Very good writing, lots of action, engaging realistic characters, and a story that makes you care about these characters, their world, and it’s problems.
I was impressed with the way the author deals with the theme of good vs evil, on several levels. She turns things on their heads as the series progresses. As you go from book to book, you see that things are not always as they seemed in the previous book; and overall, good and evil are not absolute concepts.
There’s lots more to recommend in these books, but I’ll wrap up by saying that if you enjoy books that are fun to read, and also make you think a bit, then you should get this series.
This series was excellent!
Enjoyed these books very much. I highly recommend them!
Engaged me at book 1, page 1, and I could not stop until finishing all four books.
Very good writing, lots of action, engaging realistic characters, and a story that makes you care about these characters, their world, and it’s problems.
I was impressed with the way the author deals with the theme of good vs evil, on several levels. She turns things on their heads as the series progresses. As you go from book to book, you see that things are not always as they seemed in the previous book; and overall, good and evil are not absolute concepts.
There’s lots more to recommend in these books, but I’ll wrap up by saying that if you enjoy books that are fun to read, and also make you think a bit, then you should get this series.
December 30, 2017
Wonderful Series
This is an unforgettable series of life and death, courage and defeat, love and hope. A story across time and lands. So well put together that it is very hard to put down. One story meshes so well with the next that it is a seamless transition. The characters are fleshed out in a way that they become very real. Well worth reading. Can't wait to finish the complete series. Enjoy!
This is an unforgettable series of life and death, courage and defeat, love and hope. A story across time and lands. So well put together that it is very hard to put down. One story meshes so well with the next that it is a seamless transition. The characters are fleshed out in a way that they become very real. Well worth reading. Can't wait to finish the complete series. Enjoy!
January 20, 2018
Enjoyed very much
Enjoyed reading this series very much. Very hard for me to put down. I am looking forward reading books 5-7.
Enjoyed reading this series very much. Very hard for me to put down. I am looking forward reading books 5-7.
Read
April 23, 2019When I first started this series, I was a little hesitant since I don't normally read this genre, but halfway through the first story and I was hooked.
The box set is compiled of the first four books in the series; Of Ice and Snow, Winter Queen, Of Fire and Ash, and Summer Queen. Each book follows the lives of different characters, but as you continue reading each story carries over into the next.
Of Ice and Snow, book 0.5 in the Fairy Queens series we meet Shyle clan member Otec, a shepard who is sent with Matka, a raider in disguise, into the mountains to help someone find a plant of some kind. Though Matka’s tribe is mostly involved in raiding and slavery, Otec finds himself drawn to her in a way that finds both of them falling in love, but as they try to make their way to help the Shyle clanswomen from becoming slaves, he must fight to save them, along the way becoming the leader he was always meant to be.
Winter Queen, book one in the Fairy Queens series, we get to meet Ilyenna, Otec and Matka’s second born child. When the Shyle clan hears of an attack by Tryon on the neighbouring Argon Clan, they send help to fight and as Mistress, Ilyenna goes along, but when something happens and she ends up dead in the snow, the fairies come to her and offer her a deal - they will revive her if she becomes the new Winter Queen, leaving everything behind in the process. When the clans clash, to save her people Ilyenna is sent to live as a slave, where she meets up with her childhood crush, Rone. Chaos falls on the two young lovers, and the fairies return for Ilyenna, marking her as the Winter Queen.
Of Fire and Ash, book 1.5 in the Fairy Queens series follows a young girl named Nelay who has been born with the ‘sight’ which allows her to see Fairies. Although warned by her mother to avoid the fairies, while out with her father and brother, her father is bitten by a snake and lays in the sand dying, Nelay asks one of the fairies for help, setting off a chain of events that she never knew was possible. All deals with the fairies come with a price, but will this price be too much for Nelay?
Summer Queen, book two in the Fairy Queens series, continues the story of Nelay, now one of the priestesses in Thandjavar and the charming smuggler, Rycus. When Nelay is told that she is to marry King Zatal, she flees with the help of her friend Jezzel, trying to get to her family. Along the way Rycus and Nelay eventually begin to fall in love when Nelay finds herself in a situation where she must pay the price of the fairies help, becoming the Summer Queen.
The box set is compiled of the first four books in the series; Of Ice and Snow, Winter Queen, Of Fire and Ash, and Summer Queen. Each book follows the lives of different characters, but as you continue reading each story carries over into the next.
Of Ice and Snow, book 0.5 in the Fairy Queens series we meet Shyle clan member Otec, a shepard who is sent with Matka, a raider in disguise, into the mountains to help someone find a plant of some kind. Though Matka’s tribe is mostly involved in raiding and slavery, Otec finds himself drawn to her in a way that finds both of them falling in love, but as they try to make their way to help the Shyle clanswomen from becoming slaves, he must fight to save them, along the way becoming the leader he was always meant to be.
Winter Queen, book one in the Fairy Queens series, we get to meet Ilyenna, Otec and Matka’s second born child. When the Shyle clan hears of an attack by Tryon on the neighbouring Argon Clan, they send help to fight and as Mistress, Ilyenna goes along, but when something happens and she ends up dead in the snow, the fairies come to her and offer her a deal - they will revive her if she becomes the new Winter Queen, leaving everything behind in the process. When the clans clash, to save her people Ilyenna is sent to live as a slave, where she meets up with her childhood crush, Rone. Chaos falls on the two young lovers, and the fairies return for Ilyenna, marking her as the Winter Queen.
Of Fire and Ash, book 1.5 in the Fairy Queens series follows a young girl named Nelay who has been born with the ‘sight’ which allows her to see Fairies. Although warned by her mother to avoid the fairies, while out with her father and brother, her father is bitten by a snake and lays in the sand dying, Nelay asks one of the fairies for help, setting off a chain of events that she never knew was possible. All deals with the fairies come with a price, but will this price be too much for Nelay?
Summer Queen, book two in the Fairy Queens series, continues the story of Nelay, now one of the priestesses in Thandjavar and the charming smuggler, Rycus. When Nelay is told that she is to marry King Zatal, she flees with the help of her friend Jezzel, trying to get to her family. Along the way Rycus and Nelay eventually begin to fall in love when Nelay finds herself in a situation where she must pay the price of the fairies help, becoming the Summer Queen.
July 20, 2016
Imaginative and spellbinding tales, each of them is able to be read as a stand-alone and yet they form stunning and addictive series.
The opening story, Of Ice and Snow, tells the story of next Winter Queen's parents, overcoming the differences and fighting the whole surrounding for their love and eligible future together. Followed by the story of their daughter Ilyenna, cursed and marked by death, the reader suffers her misery and tribulation until Ilyenna finally finds the way to escape and fulfills her fate in becoming a new Winter Queen. While avenging her nation, she forms a bit unusual friendship with the Summer Queen - Leto. But this friendship shifts the Balance off and causes more problems than expected.
The consequences of the two Queens' alliance are described in the next two books - Of Fire and Ash tells the story of Nelay's childhood and her actions bringing her to Thanjavar for raising her up to be a priestess. Summer Queen shows Nelay's story in adulthood and her forming as a leader, friend and woman.
The whole set is packed with action and violence, horrors of war and tough life conditions, individuals and nations driven by motives of greed, lust, pride, selfishness, power and wealth, as much as revenge and hatred. But it also shows the opposite - the enormous power of love and hope, friendship, support and help, selflessness and sacrifice. Just like the Balance mentioned many times across the story, the author shows us the opposite sides of everything - of every human act, of every motive, of every emotion, every decision. What seems acceptable from one point of view is absolutely reprehensible from another.
I very much liked the way the story is written and the overall development of all the main characters. They are all strong individualities, respectable for their strengths and qualities and one could easily pick a favourite one. It also makes the reader hard to judge the good from the bad, mixing compassion and understanding with disapproval, making villains of heroes and vice versa.
I could say it is a dark fantasy series, but the wisdom hidden deep in the core of the stories is valuable too much to put it aside even if you don't like the plot development. There's too much in the book to love one could easily overlook or forgive the imperfections.
The opening story, Of Ice and Snow, tells the story of next Winter Queen's parents, overcoming the differences and fighting the whole surrounding for their love and eligible future together. Followed by the story of their daughter Ilyenna, cursed and marked by death, the reader suffers her misery and tribulation until Ilyenna finally finds the way to escape and fulfills her fate in becoming a new Winter Queen. While avenging her nation, she forms a bit unusual friendship with the Summer Queen - Leto. But this friendship shifts the Balance off and causes more problems than expected.
The consequences of the two Queens' alliance are described in the next two books - Of Fire and Ash tells the story of Nelay's childhood and her actions bringing her to Thanjavar for raising her up to be a priestess. Summer Queen shows Nelay's story in adulthood and her forming as a leader, friend and woman.
The whole set is packed with action and violence, horrors of war and tough life conditions, individuals and nations driven by motives of greed, lust, pride, selfishness, power and wealth, as much as revenge and hatred. But it also shows the opposite - the enormous power of love and hope, friendship, support and help, selflessness and sacrifice. Just like the Balance mentioned many times across the story, the author shows us the opposite sides of everything - of every human act, of every motive, of every emotion, every decision. What seems acceptable from one point of view is absolutely reprehensible from another.
I very much liked the way the story is written and the overall development of all the main characters. They are all strong individualities, respectable for their strengths and qualities and one could easily pick a favourite one. It also makes the reader hard to judge the good from the bad, mixing compassion and understanding with disapproval, making villains of heroes and vice versa.
I could say it is a dark fantasy series, but the wisdom hidden deep in the core of the stories is valuable too much to put it aside even if you don't like the plot development. There's too much in the book to love one could easily overlook or forgive the imperfections.
October 26, 2016
What a marvelous achievement to have created this richly woven tapestry of lands, cultures, peoples and goddesses. Each of the four books that makes up this series (two novellas which provide background plus a full-length and a double-length novel) is a complete story of its own but in combination you are presented with a world every bit as complex and complete as the Shire ("The Hobbit"/"Lord of the Rings"). Give yourself the time to immerse yourself in this engrossing series of tales, knowing there are at least three more books in the series to feed your newfound addiction!
Merged review:
What a marvelous achievement to have created this richly woven tapestry of lands, cultures, peoples and goddesses. Each of the four books that makes up this series (two novellas which provide background plus a full-length and a double-length novel) is a complete story of its own but in combination you are presented with a world every bit as complex and complete as the Shire ("The Hobbit"/"Lord of the Rings"). Give yourself the time to immerse yourself in this engrossing series of tales, knowing there are at least three more books in the series to feed your newfound addiction!
Merged review:
What a marvelous achievement to have created this richly woven tapestry of lands, cultures, peoples and goddesses. Each of the four books that makes up this series (two novellas which provide background plus a full-length and a double-length novel) is a complete story of its own but in combination you are presented with a world every bit as complex and complete as the Shire ("The Hobbit"/"Lord of the Rings"). Give yourself the time to immerse yourself in this engrossing series of tales, knowing there are at least three more books in the series to feed your newfound addiction!
June 25, 2016
What a great series! I read a lot of YA/New contemporary/fantasy and paranormal. I found this series unique, fresh and original. I personally have issues reading cliffhangers. I don't have patience to wait for them, so I try to start a series once the author is close to finishing. I must admit, these were wonderful in that regard. I could easily have read these books and been satisfied with the end of the story. With the way these stories end, for the most part, there isn't much of a cliffhanger, however, to understand each book, you must read the previous books. It did take a bit to figure out the timeline between a couple of the books since time had past between the novels. I think not knowing where the time frame at the beginning of each book was the only downside I saw. I can't wait to see what happens between the Summer and Winter Queen and her daughter. I look forward to reading the next part of the series and I would recommend this series.
I did receive a copy for an honest review.
I did receive a copy for an honest review.
July 8, 2016
Amber Argyle has drawn you into a world of fire and ice. She writes such vivid scenes that the charachters and scenery seem to want to walk off the page and into your bedroom, or wherever it is you read. I couldn't put this book down and was very glad I had 4 books in a row to read, even if they did end In a cliffhanger. I haven't been able to choose which side I'm wanting more of, fire ( hot , sexy) or ice ( dramatic, sexy). Can't wait to read book 5 and I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, paranormal, or romance !! 5 solid ☆'s !!! I recieved a gifted copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
June 21, 2016
What a book
This is an awesome book the way the world is decribed and the people it pull you in. Makes you fill like you are there. There is a lot of going on. I laughed and cried. I would get the next book. Could not put it down. So grab a copy and a cup of your favorite drink and enjoy. Happy reading
I received a free copy for an honest review.
This is an awesome book the way the world is decribed and the people it pull you in. Makes you fill like you are there. There is a lot of going on. I laughed and cried. I would get the next book. Could not put it down. So grab a copy and a cup of your favorite drink and enjoy. Happy reading
I received a free copy for an honest review.
November 27, 2017
Great story of the two fairy queens beginning. Of the 4 books, the fist two cover winter and the last two cover summer. The books complement each other with a little overlap with a complete stories that do lead to future books.
July 10, 2016
This is a wonderful adventure. This series draws you in with beautiful scenery and a wonderful story line. It is well-written and makes you want to read one right after the other. Can't wait for the next one! :)
*I received this in exchange for my honest review*
*I received this in exchange for my honest review*
July 17, 2016
It was great to have all the books in a boxed set. The stories were all great! They all had wonderful characters, settings and storylines. Even if you didn't read the books in order, they were all stand-alone.
I received a copy for an honest review.
I received a copy for an honest review.
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