Amid the Winter Snow

The Uncharted Realms #3.5

by Grace Draven, Thea Harrison, Jeffe Kennedy

As the snows fall and hearths burn, four stories of Midwinter beginnings prove that love can fight its way through the chillest night...

THE DARKEST MIDNIGHT, by Grace Draven
The mark Jahna Ulfrida was born with has made her a target of the cruel and idle all her life. During the long, crowded festivities of Deyalda, there’s nowhere to escape. Until a handsome stranger promises to teach her to save herself…

THE CHOSEN, by Thea Harrison
In her visions, Lily sees two men fighting for her tiny country’s allegiance: the wolf and the tiger, each deadly, each cunning. One will bring Ys chaos and death, one a gentler path—but she’s destined to love whichever she chooses. The midwinter Masque is upon them, and the wolf is at her door…

THE STORM, by Elizabeth Hunter
When her soul mate died in a massacre of the half-angelic Irin people, Renata thought she’d never feel happiness again. She’s retreated to the snowy Dolomites to remember her hurts—until determined, irrepressible Maxim arrives to insist on joy, too. And before she can throw him out, they discover a secret the Irin have to know…

THE SNOWS OF WINDROVEN, by Jeffe Kennedy
As a blizzard threatens their mountain keep, the new Queen Amelia of the Twelve Kingdoms and her unofficial consort Ash face their own storm. Ash knows a scarred, jumpy ex-convict isn’t the companion his queen needs. But when a surprise attack confines them together in their isolated sanctuary, the feast of midwinter might tempt even Ash into childlike hope…

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Anthologies, Fantasy Romance, Paranormal, Novella, Paranormal Romance

554 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 12, 2017

About the author

I'm an author and Louisiana native living in Texas with my husband, three smalls and a big doofus dog. I have lived in Spain, hiked the Teton Mountains, honeymooned in Scotland, ridden in competition rodeo and am the great great granddaughter of a Nicaraguan president. I also hate doing laundry and refuse to iron anything.

I've loved storytelling since forever. I published my first short story with Amber Quill Press and have since written several other tales. A love of the bad boy in fiction always inspires me.

Reviews

[Elizabeth Hunter]

IT'S HERE!!!!!!



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There is a brand new chapter of the Irin Chronicles in this anthology, THE STORM, which is Max and Renata's story.



(Hi, Maxim.)



So here's the expanded synopsis for THE STORM:

On the darkest night of winter, can he bring light to her wounded heart?


Scarred by loss, Irina warrior Renata has held the world at a distance. Fighting the Grigori and protecting humanity are her goals, but her heart remains frozen to the bonds of family and love. Only one scribe, Maxim of Riga, has managed to see through Renata’s armor.

Maxim may spend his days collecting intelligence for the Irin Council, but his nights are spent dreaming about a prickly Irina warrior who continues to elude his dogged pursuit. They’ve been lovers and allies for decades, but Max wants more. He knows Renata was wounded, but he also sees her capacity for love.

On the darkest night of winter, in the halls of her ancestral home, Renata is forced to face her past. Can a fierce storm and a stubborn scribe coax her back to life, or will she retreat into duty forever?

THE STORM is a paranormal romance novella in the Irin Chronicles.


In addition to Max and Renata's story, there's a nice little side-plot about a very INTERESTING addition to the Irin world. And for those of you wondering, I will eventually be publishing this on its own, but probably not until next holiday season. So if you're an Irin fan, grab this now! It's really a tremendous value because I know most of my readers love at least one of the other three other authors in this anthology. And if you've never read any of them before, TRUST ME, you're going to want to!

[Elena]

A Grace Draven's romance? Set during a winter festivity?! Huh: yes, please? I'll have you know - in case you're unaware of the fact (the shame!) - that Grace Draven writes fantasy-romance like no other and, incidentally, she also writes stunningly beautiful scenes set during winter festivals. It's one of her things, okay? Go read her (super)short story The Light Within: A Winter's Tale (but only after you've read Master of Crows, eh: or it would make little sense) if you don't believe me. Anyway, this novella here happens to be a fantasy-romance primarily set during a winter festival. So: do your math. I've got really nothing else to say about In the Darkest Midnight if not to further tempt Draven's devotees by telling them that they'll find mention of certain Wraith King from Eidolon here.

Thea Harrison's The Chosen was a different matter entirely. I know she's a beloved author so this is an obvious case of "it's me, not you" but I found her writing utterly uninspired and the characters yet another textbook example of the overbearing male / gentle and delicate but strong-willed female trope you can find in 96% of the romance genre - with the added... minus that both Wulf and Lily are especially bland and lifeless. The worldbuilding could have saved this short story but I guess I just couldn't be bothered enough to care, not after reading how, completely out of the blue, Wulf tries to seduce Lily by forcibly stuffing chocolate into her mouth. I can only guess that Harrison was going for sensual and romantic but I just didn't know whether to laugh or cringe. Awkward.

Next up is The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter. Now, I really don't like angels. And the one time I tried to read a book by this author, A Hidden Fire, I DNFed it out of sheer boredom. Admittedly, the premises weren't encouraging: but, what do you know, it turned out I did like this novella. The Storm fits somewhere in between Hunter's Irin Chronicles series and the author manages the not easy feat of not boring her long-time readers with infodump (well, okay: I'll admit to some guesswork here since I'm not a fan of the series myself) while not leaving her new readers in the dark. The worldbuilding and magic system are complex and inventive, the European setting amazingly accurate and evocative (I actually visited most of the places she mentioned and it was fun to imagine Irin and Irina mixed around us peons in Bergen and Prague), the characters three dimensional and captivating (I especially enjoyed how she reversed the usual roles in the relationship between Max and Renata: for once she's the one with a dark, painful past running from commitment) all wrapped up in a hopeful message of tolerance and forgiveness. The romance was a little too angsty for my taste, but lovely nonetheless.

But the real treat of this anthology (surprisingly, since with Grace Draven in the mix the competition should have been nonexistent) was Jeffe Kennedy's The Snow of Windroven , a novella set in the author's Twelve Kingdoms series, which is what I'm going to be reading as soon as I'm done with this review. The story is told from Ash's POV and it's as romantic as it gets without ever becoming cheesy, the angst and heartache between the scarred hero and his queen delicious rather than aggravating: I can only imagine that if you've read about Ash and Ami before, this will be the Christmas gift you were waiting for (and I'm actually a little envious of you). The worldbuilding is fantastic. The characters are fantastic. The story itself is admittedly a little more than the set for all this awesomeness to happen, but - who cares? I bet I'll have plenty of action once I get my hands on the rest of the series.

Amid the Winter Snow does its job in the best possible way: it's a great showcase for these four authors to prove what they can do to new readers, tempting them into reading more of their works (you got me, Mrs. Kennedy! And possibly you, too, Mrs. Hunter!), and it's a delightful treat for fans. Good job, ladies.

[Angela (Angel's Book Nook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall Rating of Amid the Winter Snow: 4 Stars

Amid the Winter Snow features four novellas that where charming, delightful, and engaging to read. Thea Harrison is the only author in this anthology I’m familiar with, so the other three were new to me. I was drawn into the stories and taken for a whirlwind ride of heartache, conflict, healing, and love. Each novella is distinct, special, and focuses around a winter holiday. Out of all the novellas featured the only one I didn’t care for was The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy.

Below you will find my individual reviews for each novella in this anthology.

The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven - 5 Stars

I very much loved The Darkest Midnight. I couldn’t put the story down and devoured from begging to end.

When we first meet Jahna she is only fifteen and being tormented by a group of girls. The Delyalda celebration is never a fun time for her; because of this. As the years move on we see her learn swordsman ship along side her brother as well as becoming an accomplished scholar by writing down all the stories she is told. At the begging we also meet Radimar he is seven years older then Jahna and to be her brothers sword master teacher for four years. We see how their relationship develops over the years. How the romance blossoms between them. It’s sad and sweet.

I liked how the author made the time move on and how the characters change and grow throughout years. It was also very sweet how Radimar helped coax Jahna to be more confident and have courage.

The Darkest Midnight was a remarkable, sweet, and captivating read.

*****

The Chosen by Thea Harrison - 4 Stars

I very much enjoy the Elder Race series and this novella was no exception.

Lily can see things and she’s been having dreams about two men battling. Now that Wulf has arrived on her doorstep she must choose sides. One will lead to happiness, while the other will lead to despair.

Wolf is a bad and good man wrapped up in one. He’s formidable and honorable too. Lily is the Chosen and leader of her people. I liked Lily and Wolf. Both knew the hardship of being leaders for their people and living with chooses that may not always turn out. Their chemistry together was wonderful, these two complemented each other, and their romance was enchanting.

The Chosen is a magical story full of confrontation and desire.

*****

The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter - 4.5 Stars

I was a bit unsure going into The Storm, but the more I read the more interesting the novella became and now I’m curious about reading the series this one takes place in the Iron Chronicles.

Renata & Maxim from what I got are side characters in the series or so it seams to me. Since I haven’t read the series I’m not positive. A lot happens; before these two meet and after they meet as well. Their courtship spans over 18-years.

The author showcase Renata and Maxim throughout the years. We get some of their backstory as well as little parts of information on what happens in the Iron Chronicles series too. I cried in a few parts throughout this novella. It’s hard to move on when your lose is so big, but Maxim never gives up on Renata and their love is captivating.

The Storm gives us loss, heartache, healing, love, and learning to let go and move on. It keeps up with the series it's part of, but also stands very much on it's own.

*****

The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy - 2.5 Stars

This one was my least favorite. Why? Well we’re coming into the middle of this couples relationship or whatever it is between them. The backstory is lacking and from what I’ve discovered this novella is part of The Twelve Kingdoms series. Ami has her own story, The Tears of the Rose.

Ami is Queen and also an Avatar for a Goddess. She’s also got two young children from a previous marriage, not sure on how that relationship was, but we know her husband is dead. Ash is a low born, a half-blooded something, and was thrown in prison as a child for who knows what. Their relationship is push and pull. He knows deep down that he will have to let her go, even though he loves her and she loves him, but he keeps pulling away. It's so back and forth. Also their is mention of a waking dragon at Castle Windroven, but that storyline/plot isn’t completed.

It feels like the reader is missing a lot if they haven't read at least Ami's book. The Snows of Windroven doesn't feel like it can stand on it’s own. It needs the series to put things fully into view.

[Melindam · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Mixed feelings.

I had not been familiar with any works by the authors published in this anthology of short winter stories, so I thought maybe this would be a good introduction.
Unfortunately, I found that these stories did not have it in them to tempt me to try and read more from their authors with the exception of Grace Draven.

All in all, these stories were meant for their fans who are familiar with their books/worlds. As a non-fan I could not really appreciate them.

[Celestine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology brings together four experienced and successful fantasy romance authors, who supplement their respective canons with stories centered around the winter solstice. Tonally, these novellas highly complement one another, but there are varying degrees of success in terms of placing the reader in the respective universes. To give you perspective on my perspective, I have read seven novels/novellas by Grace Draven, one novel by Thea Harrison, three novels/novellas by Elizabeth Hunter, and this is the first time I've read anything by Jeffe Kennedy.

The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven

Some of Draven's leading men can be implacable scoundrels (i.e. Silhara and Cededa), and for whatever reason, maybe because of the scars and the sword, I expected Sir Radimar to be like them. But no, he was the King of Calm and Cool, until young Jahna turns his world inside out. Draven has crafted main characters who are honorable and dedicated and smart, but plagued by their perceived inferior traits. This story takes place over the course of years, with the same mid-winter festival playing a key role. There is considerable emotional depth to this story, even with side characters, such as the relationship of siblings Jahna and Sodrin (wonderful!). This is a story of personal growth rather than danger or action adventure. Even so, it is completely absorbing, and this is due to superior world-building and deep characterization. The story is tangential to The Wraith Kings, but only in terms of the plot of that novel being a major, if distant, "recent" event. Five stars.

The Chosen by Thea Harrison
I've not read a book that deals with Ys, so I had no frame of reference. It didn't matter. I was absorbed by the dilemma of how Lily will lead the abbey and its village retainers through an impending war. I enjoyed the interplay of Lily and Wulf, whose levity on "flirting" was the perfect counterpoint to the gloom and doom of approaching battles and miserable cold. Although there was a bit of insta-love, I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and how they came to build trust. I was a bit lost in the understanding of the bridge between Earth and Ys, but I enjoyed the writing enough to look up others in the potential universe. I was so effortlessly pulled into the story that I took just one note as I read along. That is what I call absorbed. Five stars.

The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter

This was my least favorite of the offerings in this anthology, mainly because I felt completely lost in the beginning of the story, and lack of familiarity with the Irin Chronicles had me floundering. Plus, I felt the world-building suffered from sloppy info-dumping. However, after the rough patch at the start, I fell into the rhythm of the angsty love story of Renata and Maxim. Their love was tested and had a more mature, sometimes somber, tone to it, despite some of the antics of Maxim. The beauty of tolerance in a season of forgiving is the message here, and it is lovely. 3.5 stars.

The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy

This story is clearly a sequel to Kennedy's The Twelve Kingdoms series, which I had to look up since I hadn't read them. It appears to me that Queen Ami and her consort Ash had at least a happy-for-now ending in that series, but Ash is still plagued by his lower status and feels Ami needs to marry for the benefit of the kingdom. This story is them dancing around each other's feelings while succumbing to their lust, avoiding magical demons and dragons, and traveling to a remote holding to celebrate winter solstice. For all that this novella is clearly dependent on the previous series, I didn't feel very lost and believe that Kennedy did an admirable job of enfolding a new reader into her universe. She also has a way with words, direct yet poetic, that enamored me. Ash's lack of confidence bothered me, but it was clear that everyone considered him a leader among men. Seeing how he got that reputation made me want to read The Twelve Kingdoms. 4 stars.

Book source: ARC from NetGalley.

[Douglas Meeks · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOTE: I typically do not copy the synopsis in a review because it looks like the reviewer is just trying to make it look longer but with 4 stories I thought I might help the reader not have to look back and forth for each story. I can almost promise you that you will find at least 1 or more of these stories 5 Star reading for almost any taste.

THE DARKEST MIDNIGHT, by Grace Draven
The mark Jahna Ulfrida was born with has made her a target of the cruel and idle all her life. During the long, crowded festivities of Deyalda, there’s nowhere to escape. Until a handsome stranger promises to teach her to save herself…

This was the best story of the lot by a narrow margin and more because it was a totally stand-alone story that did not leave me feeling unsatisfied. The fact that I knew someone years ago with a similar condition to Jahna has might have made me a bit biased. The story moved along and seldom left you wanting to scan pages to get to a better place. I am a sucker for stories about weak people finding out they can be strong.

THE CHOSEN, by Thea Harrison
In her visions, Lily sees two men fighting for her tiny country’s allegiance: the wolf and the tiger, each deadly, each cunning. One will bring Ys chaos and death, one a gentler path—but she’s destined to love whichever she chooses. The midwinter Masque is upon them, and the wolf is at her door…

When I said Ms Draven’s story was the best, the only reason I did not choose this one was because it was SO good that I felt horrible that it had an ending, there was still story to tell about these people and it captivated me from start to finish. It ends in a good place but you did not want to let these folks go away it was so good.

THE STORM, by Elizabeth Hunter
When her soul mate died in a massacre of the half-angelic Irin people, Renata thought she’d never feel happiness again. She’s retreated to the snowy Dolomites to remember her hurts—until determined, irrepressible Maxim arrives to insist on joy, too. And before she can throw him out, they discover a secret the Irin have to know…

Here we have another story from Ms Hunter’s Irin world and I felt like I was reading a story I had already read and was about to put it in the “nice and sweet” pile even though it told of much horrible tragedy in the past and the weight of grief. Then up jumped another plot as I thought we were about getting to the end of this story, things take a bit of a different turn and while it did not leave me wanting more as much as “The Chosen” I could have a read a bit more but things are tied up nicely and as with most of her writing this is a love story at its heart.

THE SNOWS OF WINDROVEN, by Jeffe Kennedy
As a blizzard threatens their mountain keep, the new Queen Amelia of the Twelve Kingdoms and her unofficial consort Ash face their own storm. Ash knows a scarred, jumpy ex-convict isn’t the companion his queen needs. But when a surprise attack confines them together in their isolated sanctuary, the feast of midwinter might tempt even Ash into childlike hope…

OK, this is a story of two stupid people in love and is carved out of what I thought was already a HEA in the original book dedicated to Amelia (my memory must be faulty) and turned it into a romantic crisis. While I enjoyed the story I always have a problem with 2 people in love that can’t seem to get to the point where nothing else matters and dance all around each other trying to “do the best” for the other one. While things take a turn for the worse at one point it was still a great story. My only caveat is I cannot tell how much of a problem (if any) the reader who has not read the 12 Kingdoms Trilogy might have with the background of this story.

[Bookphenomena (Micky) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars overall

In the Darkest Midnight - Grace Draven 4.5 stars

Grace Draven delivered on a novella with the fullest sense of story, characterisation and completion. It had a seasonal feel in terms of some key moments in the story, though of course not traditional Christmas. This is a story told over more than a decade that is set in a world tenuously connected to Bast Haradis with a cameo from a character from Radiance and Eidolon. Jahna was a wonderful character, with that departure from traditional beauty that Grace Draven is so good at. Her admiration for Radimar is something to behold, young crush at first and over time their connection was beautiful. The world and the characters pulled me in so completely, the writing slipped into my imagination with ease. This winter anthology started off in the best way possible.

The Chosen - Thea Harrison 4 stars

This is my first read by Thea Harrison and I can say I’m infected in the best way by the story and characters that she weaved. This magical story of war, confrontation, leadership, desire and connection was superb. Wulf was both a bad and good man wrapped up in one, formidable and yet honourable. Lily was the chosen one, leader of her people at the abbey. She was a very interesting character to get to know and I loved their chemistry together. I would have to say that I came to this anthology for Grace Draven and found Thea Harrison of a similar style, so I’ll be checking out her work.

The Storm - Elizabeth Hunter 2.5 stars

My least favourite of the anthology, partly because angel stories aren’t really my bag (despite the subtlety of the context) and partly because I just didn’t gel with the storyline. I think this is because it is a novella from a wider series and I lacked knowledge of the world building necessary to appreciate it fully.

The Snows of Windoven - Jeffe Kennedy 3.5 stars

Whilst this book is a novella from a series I’ve not read, I did not feel disadvantaged. It was cleverly written so I could understand everything I needed for the purposes of this story and it’s world. The focus was a relationship of some longevity, a queen and consort and their battle to keep or lose what they had. It was sensual and riveting with a fantasy world that piqued my interest.

A copy of this anthology was provided by the publisher through netgalley in return for a honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

[Kara-karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE DARKEST MIDNIGHT by Grace Draven was one of my favourites in the anthology, full of Christmas spirit and magical possibilities. The reader follows progress of Jahna, a young girl with a very low self-esteem and sees her blossoming into a confident, vibrant young woman thanks to her fencing teacher whom she secretly loves.

Beautifully written and very atmospheric, this short story like everything else in this format Mrs Draven writes, begged to be fleshed out into a longer novel. Alas, the only consolation prize is that it was written in the universe of Radiance and we had a brief crossover. Absolute joy to read!
* * *
ТЕМНЕЙШАЯ ПОЛНОЧЬ была одним из моих фаворитов этого сборника. Она была полна рождественского духа и волшебных возможностей. Читатель следует за ростом и прогрессом Джанны, юной девушки с большим комплексом неполноценности, которая вырастает в яркую, уверенную в себе молодую женщину благодаря своему учителю по фехтованию, в которого она тайно влюблена. Очень нежно и красиво написано, и как все остальные повести от Мисс Дрэйвен, так и просится в поноценный роман. Увы, единственное утешение в том, что она написана в мире Радианс, и мы пересекаемся со знакомыми нам персонажами. Рекомендую.

Another unexpected surprise which fans of Warprize will absolutely adore is THE CHOSEN by Thea Harrison. This will be right up their alley!

Repeating famous words of Jacqueline Carey: "That which yields is not always weak" , and The Chosen is all that. Soft and unassuming, she hides her sharp wit and stubborn will from the conqueror despite their mutual spontaneous heat and affection. I LOVED IT, and dearly want to read more about this charismatic couple. A fantastic read.
* * *
Еще одним неожиданным подарком, особенно для фанатов Военного Приза оказалась ИЗБРАННАЯ от Тэи Гаррисон.

Повторяя слова Жакелин Кэри: "То, что гнется, не всегда слабо", и Избранная как раз такова. Под неприметной мягкой внешностью она прячет острый ум и непоколебимую волю от Завоевателя, несмотря на неожиданно вспыхнувшие между ними жар и симпатию. Эта повесть покорила меня своей яркостью, и я хочу узнать побольше об этой харизматичной паре. Рекомедую.

THE STORM by Elizabeth Hunter finally gives us a love story between Renata and Maxim of Irin Chronicles. It's a moody, bittersweet and poetic piece, and I couldn't help but soak in its lovely atmosphere. There is an interesting twist in the end, which will certainly lead to the new interesting development in this series in the future. A lovely read.
* * *
В ШТОРМУ Элизабет Хантер наконец-то рассказывает любовную историю Ренаты и Максима из Хроник Ирина. Это горько-сладкая, штормовая и поэтичная повесть, атмосферй которой мне было легко проникнуться. Неожиданный поворот сюжета под конец открывает новые возможности для всей серии в будущем, так что не следует эту повесть пропускать. Советую.

At last, I simply skimmed through THE SNOWS OF WINDROWEN by Jeffe Kennedy, folks. In no way it reflects the quality of this read, I just clash with the writing style of this author, and me and her books never get along, which is why I leave them alone. Please, read someone else's review or this story.
* * *
Наконец, я просто пролистала СНЕГА УИНДРОВЕНА от Джефф Кеннеди, ребята. Это ни в коем случае не отражает качество этой повести, просто мне совершенно не нравится авторский стил�� Мисс Кеннеди и никогда не удается ее книги дочитать, так что я и не пытаюсь. Ищите рецензию у кого-нибудь еще.

[Marta Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four stories by four pretty formidable authors and what a treat for their fans this book is. Plus if new to these authors then a fabulous way to sample their work.
Ok the first story by Grace Draven shows a friends to something much more kind of story. A young impressionable girl who is horribly bullied meets her brothers new teacher. Their mutual respect shines so bright and of course there's a very happy ending.
The second story connects to the Elder Races books but has a much more type of fantasy vibe. A woman protected by a Goddess has prophetic dreams but which choice should she make ?
Third up is a story that slots into the Irin world by this author featuring violent descendants of Angels. There is a romance here but I thought it more about the progression of the different species at war and the possibility of a distant peace.
Finally Ms Kennedy offers a story that revisits characters from her Twelve Kingdoms series and its an emotional story. Two very different people who love each other but who really need to learn to communicate !
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and happily recommend it although obviously I did have my favourites but it was time well spent and I'm already eager for more !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

[Shanna Matheo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thea, Grace and Jeffe in one anthology?

[RachelW (BamaGal) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Darkest Midnight - Grace Draven.
4.5 Stars. This is such a lovely story, as always. Draven is a wonderful fantasy storyteller who I wish put out books at a faster pace. The novella is set in the same world as ‘Master of Crows’ and ‘Wraith Kings’. Jahna is a spirited young woman with a facial disfigurement, and Lord Radimar her brother’s new sword master. An engaging, well told short story which takes place over period of years as Jahna, a young apprentice king’s chronicler, pens a record of Radimar’s life. The ending was a tad cutesy in the rush to wrap up; but overall it was prime Draven excellence.

The teaser about Megiddo left this fangirl’s heart fluttering. Le sigh...

The Chosen - Thea Harrison
3 Stars. This one is part of the author’s pretty good “Elder Races” series, but takes place completely on Ys, with random mentions of the earth plane. Lily is ‘the Chosen’ of the realm, and has a vision that two warriors will battle over her home, and one will win her. That’s pretty much it for the storyline. It took place in just a couple of days; in which Wulf came, saw, and conquered. This short story suffers from the same problems as Harrison’s other between-the-books ss. There is really not much plotline, the story rambles on, and is highly over-descriptive to fill page space. As always, these ss suffer greatly from the lack of professional editing and polish that could reduce some of these glaring issues.

The Storm - Elizabeth Hunter
4 Stars. This short story takes place within Hunter’s “Irin Chronicles” world. Renata lost her mate to a Grigori attack, and Max has spent 18 years trying to work his way into her heart and life. Although I love Hunter’s lyrical writing style and her other books, this has not been my favorite series written by her. I did enjoy the second chance at love trope, but I’m not a fan of flashbacks; and this went even further, into timeline jumping. I found that frustrating. Other than that, this is a very enjoyable, well written story by a favorite author set in a fascinating fantasy setting.

The Snows of Windroven - Jeffe Kennedy
DNF...there was nothing intrinsically wrong with this story; but it was obviously part of an ongoing series; and read like being dropped into the middle of a bigger book. The plotline and relationship was already well established. I had no prior knowledge of the characters or plot, yet it was written as if I should know. I’m sure this is a nice series; but this was too confusing for me to get interested in or continue.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anthologies aren’t usual my thing but there is always an exception to the rule and here is where it applies.

I have a lack of time at the moment so this is going to be quick. I have to date not had the opportunity to read anything by Grace Draven or Jeffe Kennedy so I can’t rate the stories that I have written. I have heard some really good things about them but I’m just lacking time. I have read Thea Harrison and I love her work yet again it is a matter of time.

The Storm by Ms. Hunter is another great addition to her Irin Chronicles series and although a novella it most certainly does pack a punch. I can only recommend reading the series as this can’t be read as a standalone. There is so much depth and history here that it is worth it.

Here it is Max and Renata’s story and what a story they have. They’re love, avoidance and hate spans over a very long time. But Max is persistent that he has followed Renata wherever she goes. This time it’s no different.

They have both encountered loss and each has dealt with it differently but after such a long time it is time to heal. To face fears to move on. Not an easy feat especially for these two. Ms. Hunter grips me with her storytelling every single time. I felt all the emotions that our MC have experienced and savor this author’s writing so much. Since the beginning of all of her paranormal romance it has been a true pleasure.






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[h o l l i s · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, had I bothered looking into this more, I might have realized AMID THE WINTER SNOW contained novellas/short stories by authors that connected to beloved stories or series or previously created worlds that they are known for. Instead all I saw was Draven and I was immediately on the hook for reading this collection. Research fail.

But I'd say it was worth it for Draven's story as it was hers that I liked best. No one does unconventional couples like this lady. Happy sigh. The three stories that followed, all but one written by authors I don't think I've ever read before, were mostly good; though I'll admit my enjoyment decreased a little with each one. The exception being the final story which I didn't like at all.

Overall I'd probably rate this a three.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came for the Elder Races and got sucked into all of them.

The Darkest Midnight: Oh, man. Jahna and Radimar had the most wonderful slow burn romance. Part of this is because Jahna is young when they first meet and she needs to grow into herself, and part of it is because Radimar is trying to convince himself his lifestyle isn't the type that takes a wife. Yet, he still has decidedly non-brotherly thoughts about Jahna even when he's trying to think of her in that way. It was, in a word, perfect.

The Chosen: I'm a HUGE Elder Races fan, so it should come as no surprise that I absolutely ADORED Lily and Wulf's story. Lily was just so sweet and mindful that every choice she makes will have an impact on her people. And Wulf...Wulf is everything I love about Elder Races heroes. He's crafty and forceful, but he sees that too heavy a hand will send Lily running. So he takes his time with her and it was FANTASTIC. I guess you could say Lily's sweetness brought out his lighter side. Honestly, Wulf needed that lightness. With everything he's had to deal with lately, he's buried under a cloud and the idea that he was heading to war wears on him.

I just... <3 <3 <3

The Storm: Renata and Max. The whole soul mate dying thing was rough. Renata was so broken after. Even when she wasn't broken-broken, she was still hanging onto her heartache so tightly she couldn't see how much Max meant to her. Finding the secret in the caverns helps her in more ways than one. Facing her pain ends up making her stronger. That said, I'm pretty sure Max would stand by her whether she was still lost or not.

The Snows of Windroven: Okay. So I have the BIGGEST soft spot for damaged heroes who can't see how heroic they really are. Ash TOTALLY checks off all those boxes. The guy has a lot of baggage and his sense of self-worth is pretty tarnished after his years in prison, but he's a good one. His biggest flaw is probably his lack of communication. But, again, those years in prison can mess with a man. Good thing Ami is the sort to force a confrontation. It takes a while to drag his fears out of him, but she perseveres and gets the big guy talking and it's FANTASTIC.

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amid the Winter Snow caught my attention quickly when I saw it was a fantasy anthology with winter holiday as the theme. All these worthy authors have been on my wish list to try their books for some time, and, what a rush, here their writings are all collected together in one book. I know better than to get my expectations too high, but somehow, I don't think I'll be doomed to disappointment.

The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven

This was my first encounter with this author's work. I've anticipated them after reading the blurbs and the reviews. Oh yes, this story more than proved it was worth my excitement. It is a standalone story that I understand may have loose connections to the Wraith Kings series. It was rich in characters, plotting, and description. It elicited my feelings from the beginning and I loved everything about Jahna's tale of triumph over her bullies and her sweet secret love for the handsome swordmaster who taught her to value herself and stand alone.

The Chosen by Thea Harrison
An Elder Races Novella

This one was another sparkling encounter for me. I still haven't picked up the Elder Races series yet- and I will, but this one showed me what I've been missing. Lily is The Chosen and her vision seeing ability has left her worried about having to make a huge choice for her country. Wulf is on a mission of vengeance and to protect his people.

I enjoyed their strong sense of duty and loyalty, but openness and playfulness with each other. The growing romance was a lovely one.
The story does feel that it is part of a greater group of ongoing storyworld, but I got into it quickly. I did feel it left things open at the end, but not in a bad way and the romance is definitely tied up.

The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter
An Irin Chronicles Novella

And, we continue with my love fest as I was wowed by the Irin Chronicles world and the deep pain in Renata that made her push away Max. He faithfully ran her down for eighteen years proving to her he wanted her no matter what. This one is framed with a present scene, dips into the past to bring the reader up to speed on their long history, and then continues on with the current time of the story. Thankfully, after all his pursuit, Max got through her grief and pain even as a little surprise adventure finishes up her healing. The darker, gritty world of this series definitely has me wanting to go back for the full thing.

The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy
A Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms Novella

Ash feels he isn't good enough for Ami who is a queen and he a former ex-convict. They snarl and rage, ice each other out and smolder with passion through a snowstorm, danger, and a castle winter festival.
Ah yes, my second venture into the Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms world and it reminded me why I need to get on the ball about starting the series from the beginning. Great world building and spicy passion, winning characters who have their flaws, and a solid plot.

****************************************

So, four fabulous winter celebration fantasies that showcase magnificent storytelling that make me want more. A definite must-read for the fantasy romance lovers.

I received this book from Net Galley in exchange of an honest review.

[Jeffe Kennedy]

Loved reading the other stories!! All so delicious. You guys are gonna love it :D

[Laura (Kyahgirl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5; 4 stars; A-

Each novella was a 3.5-4 star read. Each quite different and entertaining. Just what I would expect from this group of authors.

I'm not normally too enthused about picking up anthologies but this one was worth the money and its available at Smashwords.

[Bambi Unbridled · Rating 4 out of 5]

That blood red cape on the white snow is such an eye-catching image... I feel like I need one of those capes now! Not to mention that this anthology is written by some of the hottest names in fantasy and paranormal romance - I was stoked to get an advanced copy.

All of the stories are set in a fantastical or alternate realm where magic abides and anything seems possible.

In The Darkest Midnight, Grace Draven gives us a hugely romantic story involving a young heroine ridiculed for a birthmark on her face, as she comes of age and falls in love with her brother's swordmaster. I loved seeing Jahna come of age, grow into her maturity and develop confidence in her abilities.

In The Chosen, Thea Harrison delves into the Other Land and the witchy city of Ys. The Chose, Lily, has been having visions of two men who will change the course of her future. Lily must choose wisely as one will bring her happiness and the other will destroy her people. I liked both of these characters, Lily and the Wolf, but I wanted to learn more about the tiger. I really liked Lily's powers and abilities, and the Wolf's fearless nature was fabulous. This short story left me wanting a full length version to really delve into the political plots and romance.

In The Snows of Windroven, Jeffe Kennedy takes us back to the Twelve Kingdoms with Ami and Ash on their return to Windroven for the winter feast and to determine just how much trouble the dragon under the volcano is causing. I recommend reading the Twelve Kingdoms and Uncharted Realms series before embarking on this story. At the very least, you will want to have read The Tears of the Rose to be familiar with our couple. It was nice spending some time with beloved characters. Ami and Ash still haven't ironed out all the kinks in their relationship and I enjoyed seeing things develop further.

Unfortunately, I had to put The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter on hold for now. I have only just started the Erin Chronicles, and I haven't read enough to know exactly how the world works and the characters relate. So I will come back to this one once I get more of that series read.

[Carvanz · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the Darkest Midnight – Grace Draven – 3.5 Stars
This tale covers several years as Radimar lives with Jahna’s family in order to tutor her brother in swordsmanship. The world/society building here is perfection but perhaps a bit too much for such a short story. Nevertheless, I was lost in this richly drawn world as well as invested in the story of these two characters. My heart hurt for the loneliness Jahna’s disfigurement left her with. I loved that when Radimar looked at her he didn’t see the stain but instead saw only beauty.

The Chosen – Thea Harrison – 4 Stars
Wulf and Lily’s story was full of action, humor and romance. I absolutely loved the chemistry between these two. The world building was difficult to catch onto in the beginning – obviously built in previous books – but soon enough I caught on and was pulled into the story. Lily is strong and independent but not careless and Wulf is protective and possessive and in the end wants only what is right for Lily. This was an engaging tale and I must check out more from this author.

The Storm – An Irin Chronicles Novella – Elizabeth Hunter – 4 Stars
Renata and Maxim’s story was fast paced in the beginning but slowed toward the end. I was completely engaged in it and their conflict. I loved that Maxim wanted her above all else, despite the time and distance she put between them. The ending was poignant and poetic. Definitely would’ve enjoyed this more had I read previous books.

The Snows of Windroven – A Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms Novella – Jeffe Kennedy – 4.5 Stars
This was definitely my favorite. Angsty and filled with so much emotion. It was fast paced without cutting into the world building. The characters came to life and I especially loved that it was in the hero’s point of view. The relationship between these two must have begun during a previous book but I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything. There was just so much here I loved. It never felt like I was reading a novella. I absolutely must check out more from this author.

[Lynn Latimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
This anthology contains four holiday stories from fantasy/paranormal authors: Grace Draven, Thea Harrison, Elizabeth Hunter, and Jeffe Kennedy. Anthologies are a good way to meet new authors as well as enjoy stories about known characters for those already familiar with the linked series. I always enjoy reading Thea Harrison’s creative and well done tales; Ms Draven, I have just recently started to appreciate her work; Ms. Kennedy, I have read several of her fantasies which always have lively women and fierce shifters, and so only Ms. Hunter is new to me. Her story and world building intrigued me enough to add the Irin Chronicles to my ever-growing TBR pile. Each of these talented authors has tales to enchant, one was less a favorite for me than the others, but this anthology will please most of readers.

In the Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven

Grace Draven’s entry tells the story of Jahna Ulfrida, daughter of a nobleman, who has been persecuted and belittled her whole young life because of a physical flaw. While hiding from her tormentors, Jahna is rescued by Radimar Velus, a well-regarded swordmaster who has come to train her brother. Jahna has the opportunity to train with Radimar as well while she works on her training on recording histories. The story begins when Jahna is fifteen and progresses over several years so it is a slow burn romance. Jahna’s kind heart and noble bearing despite all she has suffered and perhaps because of it show her to be an admirable young woman. Her feelings for Radimar grow over time, and it would seem his for her in turn; however, there are obstacles to a relationship between them including his job and her status. Radimar thinks he knows what is best for Jahna, but does he truly? Ms. Draven does a fine job of weaving a tale of a young woman coming into her own despite some significant difficulties in this enchanting fantasy world of heroes and heroines with a medieval flavor.

The Chosen by Thea Harrison

I always enjoy reading Thea Harrison’s creative and well done tales. This story takes place in an Otherland kingdom where those familiar with Ms. Harrison’s Elder Races series will understand that fae and other non-humans inhabit. There humans are also to be found for various reasons living there. Lily is a seer of great power; her people have come to rely on her to guide them. Lily's visions of two men tell of very different outcomes depending on whom she chooses to ally with. One of the men who comes to storm her defenses is quite surprised with Lily’s courage and strength. She lives inside the Camaeline Abbey where they are protector priestesses who worship Camel, goddess of the Hearth. Someone is using cruel weather magic to subvert the six kingdoms in an attempt to rule them all. It is up to Lily to decide who the enemy is, and who she will help to defend her people and the other kingdoms from more brutal assaults because war is coming.

The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter

Renata has come home to the place where her best and worst memories are of family and her destined mate whom she loved and lost. She is part of a group of half-angelic people who have been waring with another angelically related group for centuries. Maxim follows Renata to her hideaway home because he is determined to make her seem him as more than a fellow warrior. While snowed in, they discover others have been living in her home. Their presence pains Renata, but shows perhaps that even one’s forsworn enemies are not always who they seem.

The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy

Queen Amelia of the Twelve Kingdoms is traveling with her children and entourage to spend the Winter Festivals at Windroven castle. Her consort, Ash, feels it is nearing time for them to part since he sees himself as unworthy of a queen for several reasons including his low birth status and criminal background. Despite how much they love each other, Ash stubbornly rejects all possibility of his remaining in Amelia’s life. In today’s parlance, Ash is a hot mess because his horrific experiences as a young boy have so colored his view of what he does and doesn’t deserve. Despite all the happiness and good life he has achieved, Ash has not moved away emotionally from his past. Amelia has been fighting the stereotype of being mainly valued for her beauty alone and living up to everyone else’s standards for her as a queen. As a couple they have challenges to face and issues to work out. After a brutal attack on the road, they are forced together in close quarters in way that just might change everything.

[Jen Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology was a great mix of new worlds and familiar favorites for me.

In the Darkest Midnight is set loosely in the world of Grace Draven’s Wraith Kings, though this story stands up completely on its own. It follows young Jahna, a nobleman’s daughter with a sizable birthmark, who falls head over heels for her brother Sodrin’s instructor in swordsmanship. Radamir is a swordmaster of Ilinfan, a line renowned for its skill. He has committed to four years training Sodrin, but he is quickly taken by the intelligence and fortitude of the young woman derided by others for her appearance. It isn’t romantic between them, at first, as Jahna is only 15, but over time, they form a friendship and much later, it develops into something more. This is a very slow burn and I was a little put off at first by how long Jahna was too young for their relationship to take off. But Draven does a fantastic job crafting the longing Jahna feels for Radamir. By the time they got together, not only did I want it, I needed it to happen. Now that’s over, I’m still wanting more.

Thea Harrison’s The Chosen exists in the world of her Elder Races series, but this story felt a little more fantasy than Harrison’s more standard PNR. It’s set in the otherworld of Y, where Lily is the Chosen among her people. She speaks to their goddess, has visions, and leads the men and women who live in their isolated keep. For a long time, her visions have warned her that a choice was coming; there would be a war between a man who was a wolf and one who was a tiger. She would fall in love with one of those men and it would lead to her salvation or her ruin. Wulf brings his soldiers to her land, hoping for an alliance against his enemy. Lily must use her observations and gifts to figure out whether he can be trusted and later, whether he is the man who she’s dreamed of spending the rest of her life with.

I thought by the blurb that this one might be a love triangle. Thankfully, it’s not. We never even meet the other guy. What this is… is more of a beginning of a love story than anything else. I liked these two together, but a lot of the connection came from Lily’s visions and other-sense. As always with Harrison, the world-building is awesome and the writing kept me turning the page. The relationship didn’t give me super-feels, but it was a story I enjoyed reading.

The Storm is not my first story by Elizabeth Hunter, but it is my first foray into her Irin Chronicles series. I knew I liked her writing, but it took me a little time to catch up and get in sync with what was happening here. I understood the basics, that these folks were descended from angels… that the men were warriors and magical scribes while the women sang their magic. But there was a lot of history to cram into a short space here, not only in the near annihilation of their women, but the relationship between these characters. This is a second chance at love story for Maxim and Renata, and to add yet another layer, he’s not her soulmate… another man was, but we meet him in flashback before he dies. If that sounds like a lot, that’s because it was. That said, when I finally caught up to it all, there were some lovely parts of this story that I found quite touching. I have no doubt that readers familiar with the series would like it a lot, since they could just enjoy the ride without having to keep up so much with past events. Even though it took me a while to connect, Renata’s transformation made it worth the read.

Jeffe Kennedy was the only author in this set whose work I had never read. The Snows of Windroven made me want to change that. This is part of her series The Twelve Kingdoms and I felt like I was jumping in to the last chapter of a book I hadn’t read… one I very much wished that I had. After a little digging, I found out the couple here, Ash and Ami, were the main characters from The Tears of the Rose, which I will definitely check out. Ash is a damaged hero who is below his love in social status. She’s a beautiful queen and he’s a scarred former convict. They love each other but he believes it can never work.

Not only did this have some great tortured hero vibes, it’s told entirely in the hero’s first person POV. This was right in my lane.

A great anthology. Would definitely recommend for fantasy-romance fans.

Rating: B+

*ARC provided by author

[Kim Shumaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thea Harrison writes such great stories and I loved reading about Lily and Wulf in the The Chosen. I am a huge fan of her Moonshadow series and can't wait to start reading the Elder Races as I know I will not be disappointed. I was provided with a copy of this anthology by the author and will update my review as I read the other other stories.

[Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only read THE SNOWS OF WINDROVEN by Jeffe Kennedy.

The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy
An Uncharted Realms novella in
Amid the Winter Snow Anthology

The story takes place just before and/or at the beginning of The Shift of the Tide (book #3/6). It focuses on the love affair between Ami and Ash - book #2 of Twelve Kingdoms, The Tears of the Rose.

Honestly, I didn’t know that there was more to Ami and Ash’s story. Shared by Ash (the first male POV for the series?), we learn how he is attempting to part ways with Ami, as she takes up her place as the Queen of Windroven. He feels he is unworthy of her affections and believes she cannot stay with him because he is an ex-convict. They each acknowledge they love one another, but Ash believes it’s not enough.

The story is beautiful and heart breaking at times. If you haven’t read The Tears of the Rose, I don’t know if you will find the story as moving. It’s a story I wanted, but didn’t know I needed.. I assumed all was well between the pair after their book, but this solidifies their relationship status and cements their HEA. I was touched by the depth of pain consuming Ash, and was moved when he finally found a way to let it out. But it was only because of Ami’s stubbornness, determination, and love that he finds himself on the path to happiness.

Their original story is one of my favorites - Ami had to grow so much to learn to love herself and those around her… This novella is the perfect counterbalance to her story and a beautiful epilogue to their journey.

My Rating: 
B+/A-

[Anne - Books of My Heart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart

 

I was trying to figure out how I would get Amid the Winter Snow for review. And then Thea Harrison sent it to me!  I am so, so thrilled! This group of authors is outstanding. I had read almost everything by Thea Harrison and Elizabeth Hunter. I wanted to try Grace Draven and Jeffe Kennedy.

 
THE DARKEST MIDNIGHT, by Grace Draven             4.5 hearts
My first experience with Grace Draven is a standout. I read this with no knowledge of her other work, so I would say it totally works as a stand alone. The rich development of the world and characters engrossed me quickly. This is fantasy with a touch of romance, a coming-of-age story for the main character Jahna. While it is short, it covered a long time period in years so things happened in a comfortable amount of time. The characters had time to learn and grow. My head was filled with vivid images; my heart was full of feelings.

 
THE CHOSEN, by Thea Harrison                                3.5 hearts
Set in the same world as the Elder Races series but more closely to the Moonshadow series world, it could be easily read as a stand alone. I enjoyed learning more about this alternate dimension. Magic is one of my favorite things and I especially like the way it is implemented here. The world and characters were developed and gave me an emotional ride.  My only issue was how quickly the romance developed. Overall, a great read and interesting story.

 
THE STORM, by Elizabeth Hunter                               4 hearts
A colorful blend of locations in the world of The Irin Chronicles series , I would only read this in order with the series. Because the series is excellent, and having all of it for background and development of the characters make this novella all the more special. There was a bit of couple communication issue, but The Storm avoids my problems with insta-love by covering many years in the couple's life. The world and the plot here are a striking tapestry along with the romance evoking a wealth of feelings.

 
THE SNOWS OF WINDROVEN, by Jeffe Kennedy     4 hearts
I was happy to finally manage to read something by Jeffe Kennedy.  The problem of a novella relationship was solved by a couple with a history of years which we join at the end. I felt so much for Ash. He has suffered so much and for so long. I admire his strength and courage. Amelia feels more distant but I like how she developed. The children terrified me; and then they made me cry.  The Snows of Windroven held me throughout and made me feel so much.  I don't know if this is part of a world in a series but I want to know.

 

Amid the Winter Snow is the joy I expected with these authors contributing. The stories fit well together in their fantasy settings with plenty of kick-ass battles and heartwarming romance. Anthologies or books of short stories such as these, are always an important experience. They allow a taste of an author and often their series' world. They've introduced me to some favorites. Certainly, I am favorably drawn to the two authors here I had not read previously. Highly recommended.

 

 

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not generally a fan of anthologies, but when my favourite authors get together? Bring it.

In The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven - three and a half stars
Set in the world of Eidolon and the Wraith Kings this is the charming story of Jahna Ulfrida, the daughter of a nobleman, born with a large port wine stain on one side of her face and her brother's teacher, Radimar Velus. Told against the back drop of several annual Deyalda festivities this is a slow blossoming romance told with sumptuous prose and fabulous world-building. Easy to read as a stand-alone if you have never read any of Grace Draven's books before.

The Chosen by Thea Harrison - three and a half stars
Set in The Elder Races but not on earth. Braugne and Guerlan are at war, threatening the neutrality of the island of Camaeline Abbey. The Chosen of the goddess Camael has to choose which side to align with, her visions tell her that one way will spell disaster for her people - but which?

The infamous Wolf of Braugne has brought his army practically to the doors of the abbey, can the Chosen use her psychic gifts to read his aura and determine if he is friend or foe?

This was a charming novella about a warlord and a strong priestess, each with their own kingdoms to rule, who find love in a time of war. TBH, I would have liked this to be a full-length novel to explore how the characters got to where they are and expand the story a bit. Easy to read as a stand-alone if you have never read any of Thea Harrison's books before.

The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter - three stars
Set in the world of the Irin Chronicles. i haven't read this series and I did feel that I missed something not having read the series. From what I gathered there are two groups of half-angel children on earth. One group, the Irin, have magical gifts and are scholars and artists. The other, the Grigori, are encouraged by their sires to take human lives (I think). Renata was the daughter of scholars and intellectuals, when The rending occurred she saw the aftermath of her parents, her mate and everyone she knew being murdered by the Grigori. Later she meets a much younger Irin, Max and they share a brief relationship. But Renata knows that she is broken ,having lost her one true love she can never allow Max to settle for something lesser.

I started off not liking this novella and by the end I rather enjoyed it.

The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy - four stars
Set in the world of The Twelve Kingdoms this a novella about the widowed Queen Ami of Avonligh who is travelling to her late husband's castle Windroven with her twin children to celebrate the feast of mid-Winter along with her unofficial consort Ash, a scarred ex-convict and half-shifter.

Although I have read some of Jeffe's more recent books I haven't read The Twelve Kingdoms series and didn't have a clue about the characters. No matter, the brief paragraph "About the Book" at the start told me all I need to know.

Ash and Ami are in love but he knows she can never marry him and he can't imagine any future King allowing his affair with Ami to continue. As the entourage travel to Windroven the pair decide to part, until a vicious attack by undead creatures forces events to take a different turn.

This novella just left me wanting more, more Windroven, more Ash, more Ami, more of Ami's adorable twins. More, more, more.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[This Literary Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

I expected a sweet, light winter novella…maybe some some cozying up around a fire and a sweet love story to soon blossom. I was wrong. So very wrong, and I'm so grateful!! I NEVER expected the depth that I got when I read The Storm. I'm still not convinced that it was a novella, there is no way that an author could make me feel the depths of emotions that Elizabeth Hunter did in Max and Renata's short story. And feel them I did. Every painful, heart wrenching, intense, steamy, and peaceful emotion. She is a enchanter and the written word is her magic. I am more than familiar with the Irin Chronicles and have always favored Max. He is a man of mystery, always hovering in the shadows, one foot on both sides of light and dark. He has played behind the scenes in the other books and, as he is my favorite Irin Scribe, I was ecstatic when I learned he would be getting his own story. This book let me in on so much more about him. In the same way his cousin Leo favors sweetness and innocence, Max favors intrigue and strength. The way he is drawn to Renata is inexplicable. There is no waver in him and I love it.

Getting the background of Renata's story was heartbreaking. Learning what she has lived through and how she has decided to live on, both broke me, then mended the pieces of my heart. Together, they are a storm, capable of greatness. I can't wait to see them in the future to see where they, and the new characters we meet are, and what they have accomplished for the future of both the Irin and Grigori worlds. I can not say enough about how wonderful this story was, I will be reading it again soon, I can already feel my heart longing for the story again.

[Marlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally published at Reading Reality

Be sure to wrap up warmly before you start this one. And have a cozy blanket and a hot cup of tea or cocoa – along with a cat or dog to keep your feet warm. All of these stories do an excellent of job of making the reader really feel Jack Frost nipping at their nose – and everywhere else!

I came to visit the Twelve Kingdoms, and ended up making the whirlwind fantasy romance tour. And I’m glad that I did – even if my toes are still frostbitten.

The Snows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy
I read The Snows of Windroven first. While I have enjoyed all of the Twelve Kingdoms books, I’ll admit that Amelia, the heroine of The Tears of the Rose, was my least favorite heroine of the entire series. She begins that story as a spoiled brat. It’s only when everything and everyone who has spoiled her is taken away that finally grows into the woman she was meant to be.

And that woman is the heroine of The Snows of Windroven, not that we don’t occasionally see flashes of the spoiled princess that Ami used to be. But this time, she’s mostly right.

None of the daughters of High King Uorsin have ended up in traditional-seeming relationships. Andi is now the Queen of the Tala, but her husband had to kidnap her in order to get her on her throne. He’s not king, only Prince Consort. Even then, their relationship is more traditional than that of the new High Queen Ursula, who cannot marry her consort due to political tensions in his home country. But she will not marry another.

Ami’s fairy tale husband died in The Tears of the Rose. Her paramour is Ash, a Tala half-breed ex-convict with just a touch of healing magic. While Ash is the person who helped Ami grow into who she was meant to be, using a whole lot of very necessary tough love, he’s also certain that she will outgrow him. That he’s not good enough for her, and that she will eventually bow down to the pressure that surrounds her to marry someone of the nobility, someone who can be king to her queen.

So a lot of The Snows of Windroven is about Ash sticking his head in his ass and refusing to take it out. He loves Ami, she loves him, her children love him, but he is determined to set her free. And she is equally determined to keep him. But Ami has a goddess on her side, and poor Ash doesn’t stand a chance. Not that he really wants one.

Escape Rating B+: I have to admit that I still don’t like Ami all THAT much. She has definitely grown up, but there’s still an element of “I’m queen so I can change the rules to get what I want” in her. I’ll also confess that the “I’m too good for her so I have to give her up” trope is not one of my favorites, because it always comes with a heaping helping of misunderstandammit.

That being said, the strength of this story is that it is written entirely from the perspective of the normally taciturn Ash. Being inside his head, seeing his reactions to Ami from his perspective, was marvelous. I liked his “voice” and would be interested in seeing more of their adventures from his point of view – especially now that he’s managed to mostly extract his head from his fundament.

The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven
Every time I pick up one of Grace Draven’s novellas (For Crown and Kingdom and Teeth Long and Sharp) I’m reminded again that I really need to grab a round tuit and read Master of Crows. Based on her short work, that one must be awesome.

I will say that I very much enjoyed her entry in this volume, titled The Darkest Midnight. But as I read it, I found the story a bit too familiar, to the point where it was driving me a bit batty. The central theme of The Darkest Midnight is quite similar to the central point in the recent (and terrific) historical romance Someone to Wed by Mary Balogh, to the point where they blend together a bit.

As I loved them both, that’s not really such a terrible problem to have!

Escape Rating B+

The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter
If I’ve read other work by Elizabeth Hunter, I don’t remember doing so. And after reading The Storm, I’m not sure that I’ll seek her out. This was the weakest story in the collection for me. I think it has to do with the whole “fallen angels” thing. I’ve read several different stories that use the whole “Grigori are half-breed fallen angels” premise, and it just doesn’t work for me. I actually liked the romance between Maxim and Renata, but the background just didn’t do it for me.

Escape Rating C+

The Chosen by Thea Harrison
And finally, last but definitely not least, The Chosen by Thea Harrison. I have not read Harrison’s Elder Races series, but now that I’ve dipped my toe into this series, I can’t wait to go back and start from the very beginning. This novella is a kind of historical fantasy romance. By that I mean that the setting feels a bit historical, but that it is definitely fantasy. It’s a kind of story I’ve read before, but in this case it’s done particularly well. The seeress Lily knows that she will be forced to chose between two alliances for her country, represented by two men who visit her in her prophetic (and sexy!) dreams. Her tiny country, no matter how much magic it contains, is no match for either of the two predators who are bearing down on her. She knows that one alliance leads to not merely survival but actually increased prosperity, and the other leads to ruin and death. But she has little to judge between them, until one of the predators arrives at her doorstep.

It is only then that she has enough information with which to make a choice. She can pick the distant kingdom, and the man who goes with it, who sends polite and thoughtful missives but she has never met, or the wolf at her door, a man who brings his army, his gifts, and most of all, his overwhelming self. Lily is caught between terrible choices, and is not certain whether the wishes of her own heart represent the best decision for her people, or the worst.

Escape Rating A-: This one is just too short. I wanted more of the this world, more of the conflict that sets this story in motion, more of Lily’s life as the Chosen of Camael, and more of the developing relationship between Lily and Wulf. I loved that they are both the reluctant leaders of their people, and that Wulf is willing to help LIly understand how hard that kind of position is without ever attempting to take it from her. They have a terrific “court and spark” romance that just sizzles on the page. This is a series that i can’t wait to go back to.

One of the reviewers on Goodreads said that she came for the Elder Races and got sucked into the rest. I came for the Twelve Kingdoms and got sucked into the Elder Races. This a series to be added to the towering TBR pile and binged on as soon as manageable. One of the marvelous features of collections like this one is that readers get introduced to writers and series that they have not heard of, or in my case with the Elder Races, skipped because by the time I heard about it the series was already several books in. I’m happy for this introduction, even if I can hear the towering TBR pile groaning in the background.

[The Word Nerd Reviews Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall book rating: 4.5 stars

Amid the Winter Snow is a beautiful anthology of stories by well-known authors: Grace Draven, Thea Harrison, Elizabeth Hunter, and Jeffe Kennedy. Of the four I had only previously read titles by Grace Draven and Elizabeth Hunter. Although now I will certainly be checking out Thea Harrison’s other titles.

The Darkest Midnight – Grace Draven

For fans of Grace Draven this novella is everything that you would expect, maybe not as steamy as her full length novels, but the emotion more than makes up for it!
Grace has this magical way of writing her stories. Her prose is almost lyrical and often hypnotic in a way that you just can’t stop reading. It’s always ‘just one more page, one more chapter….’ Her characters are always well developed; you will not find any unrealistic paragons of virtue in her stories, all characters have their strengths and weaknesses and are more real, and so more likeable, because of it.

It’s difficult to talk about this story without giving away any spoilers. But in a nutshell, it is a critique of the petty mindedness of the ‘herd mentality’ where to be different means to be shunned and excluded. It is a story of strength and resilience and it was a joy to watch Jahna grow from the young girl hiding in the shadows to the strong and confident woman she becomes, thanks in part, to her relationship with the sword master, Radimar.

This story is connected to the Wraith Kings series, but it can be read as a standalone as the connections are very minor. Although I highly recommend reading the Wraith Kings it is a brilliant series!!

The Chosen – Thea Harrison

Thea Harrison is a new author for me, but I enjoyed The Chosen so much that I will be going back to her other titles. Wulf is absolutely gorgeous and together with Lily they make a good pair. This novella had so much potential to be expanded to a full book. I hope we’ll get to opportunity to meet up again with these characters in another series.

The writing was smooth and flowing, world building was excellent, and all characters, including those in the periphery, were well developed.

This was a lovely fast paced romance. Highly Recommended.

The Storm – Elizabeth Hunter

This story is a novella of the Irin Chronicles, but it can be read as a standalone as enough information is given to follow along. You may not completely understand the wider scope of the relationships between the secondary characters and who they are, but it’s not really important to this story.

This story is ultimately about tragedy and letting go. It was lovely. I’d quite happily take Maxim home myself, such a lovely character. There was certainly chemistry between Maxim and Renata and I found myself cheering for a happy ending.

I’ve read a couple of Elizabeth Hunter’s books and I enjoy her writing style. Her world building and characterisations are always consistent and she has that extra something that makes you want to turn the pages.


The Snows of Windroven – Jeffe Kennedy
The Snows of Windroven is a novella of the Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms Series. Jeffe Kennedy is another new author to me, but unfortunately this was my least favourite of the anthology but not because of any deficits in Ms Kennedy’s writing. This was the only novella in the anthology where I felt I needed to read the other stories in the series to get more information.
This story read like it was the final chapters, or an extended epilogue, of the main book. Although attempts were made to explain characters, situations, and concepts I felt that it left the reader with only a surface understanding of who was who and what was happening.

For me, this was a shame because the novella has a lot of potential. I liked the characters, they seemed like they would have been well developed and so easy to like, if not love, if you’d read the earlier book(s).

This story has piqued my interest enough that I will put this series on by TBR pile and see if I can catch up with these characters and understand more fully where they are coming from.

If you’ve read the other books in this series I’m sure you’ll love this novella. I very much enjoyed Ms Kennedy’s writing style, I just found myself floundering to keep up with the characters.

[Sometime · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven 4 stars ****

Grace Draven is one of my favorite fantasy authors so I knew her novella would be amazing. She does a great job of giving the novella the feel of a full length book. Neither the plot nor the characters suffer from the shortened length under her pen.

I loved the story of Jahna, a girl with a birthmark covering half of her face. She is smart, brave and kind despite the hardships she endures because of her face. Radimar is a visiting sword master teaching her brother. They both spend time together and stronger feelings develop.

This book hit me right in the feels. I knew we'd be in for a long wait when I learned that Jahna is only 15 years old at the start of the book, but I wasn't prepared for the 8 year separation. Janna needed time to grow up and mature, but it felt excessive. Paired with the way Radimar left things, I wasn't feeling very confident about him

This was an emotional, romantic story and I loved it.

SafetyThe couple were separated for quite a long time but no mention is made of other partners for Radimar during that time. I'm going to assume that he was too busy fighting wars and he loved her so deeply that he stayed faithful. Jahna was, of course, a virgin.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The Chosen by Thea Harrison 4 stars ****

The Chosen was a little hard to get into. I felt lost at first about the setting and what was going on. But the story started moving soon and I really loved it. I've read some of The Elder Races books so I'm familiar with the world and Harrison's writing style. This book had a bit of suspense about what Lily should do, who she should choose. Don't worry, there is NO love triangle in this story. I don't want to say too much and spoil the story, just know it is well worth reading.

Safety: All good
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The Storm by Elizabeth Hunter
I did not read this novella. It is about angelic creatures and stories about angels aren't my thing. Not Interested.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The Shows of Windroven by Jeffe Kennedy 3 stars ***

This novella is part of an ongoing series so I was dropped into the middle of a story that had some history in another book. I never felt lost and the author did a good job of bringing the reader up to speed.

This is the story of Queen Ami and Ash, a former convict. Ash doesn't feel worthy of a Queen and denies himself the happiness they both deserve. I wanted to smack him for most of the book. He stubbornly held onto his determination to leave Ami so she could have what she deserves. He refused to talk to her about his doubts. Oh Ash, YOU are what she wants and deserves. They finally come to an understanding after some adventures together.

Safety: safe

[Sheila Melo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an anthology of four separate novellas with the only connection being that each has a connection to the longest night of the year.

I liked all the stories in this anthology which is unusual. I thought each gave a glimpse into a different world and each had great characters.

IN THE DARKEST MIDNIGHT by Grace Draven: Jahna Ulfrida is bullied and made an outcast because of the birthmark on her face. While hiding from one of her tormentors, she meets her brother's new swordmaster Sir Radimar Velus who promises to help her defend herself.

This was a sweet story that built from the beginning and takes place over quite a period of time so the characters get to know one another. I enjoyed how Jahna grows and changes through the years of the story and how these two find their way together in the face of overwhelming odds. Sometimes short novellas don't work with complex stories, but this one was well developed and quite enjoyable. Rating: 4 stars.

THE CHOSEN by Thea Harrison: Lily has had visions where she has to choose between a wolf and a tiger. The man who she falls in love with has the possibility of saving her realm or destroying it. When a warrior comes to town, Lily has to decide which man he is.

This novella takes place in Harrison's Elder Races universe although in a place apart from the characters and places in the novels. I very much enjoyed this story although the outcome seemed completely obvious from the start. The characters were so well drawn and interesting that I was disappointed that the story ended. (Maybe we will revisit them someday). Rating: 4 stars.

THE STORM by Elizabeth Hunter: Maxim of Riga has searched for Renata's secrets for years. Renata lost her soul mate in a massacre that killed many of her people. Having annointed herself as a warrior to judgment, she has spent centuries getting revenge. Although Max and Renata have been acquainted for years, she will not allow herself to get any closer to him.

This was a painful story because Renata's story shows the result of a dark war. This is not a story about two people falling in love, but rather a story of how someone goes on when all hope is lost for a future. The characters are the center of this story. There is a lot of information about the Irin Chronicles that I suspect that someone who has read that series would pick up on immediately, but even though I haven't read the series, I could understand the conflicts involved and I enjoyed the story very much.  Rating: 4 stars.

THE SNOWS OF WINDROVEN by Jeffe Kennedy: Ash, the lover of Amelia the new Queen of the Twelve Kingdoms knows that his time with Ami is coming to an end. Ash knows that he is not worthy of being with Ami even though he loves her. Determined to escort her to safety and then leave, danger provides the opportunity for something else.

This is the story of a man who doesn't think himself worthy and the woman who doesn't want to let him go. Told in the first person, readers get to see Ash's point of view throughout the entire story. It is clear that he is deeply in love but doesn't know a way forward to what he wants. I thought this story was good because we see that Ash is such a good man who doesn't see that in himself. I liked seeing how gentle and sweet he is but also with a good sexy strong man. Ami also is no prissy pushover herself. We don't get to see these two get together here, but rather this book is at a critical point in their story. This is a Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms novella but I haven't read anything from this series. Rating: 4 stars.

NOTE: I received a copy of this book from the author in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.