What do you think?
Rate this book
The Xenith Trilogy #2
Between Frost and Fury
Delaney might have done her job a little TOO well...and now her life has once again been turned upside down by aliens, this time by a deadly (and devastatingly handsome) alien prince in this explosive second installment of Chani Lynn Feener's The Xenith Trilogy. Delaney has been kidnapped by aliens. Again. After only a month back on Earth with her hot new alien boyfriend Ruckus, the deadly and devastatingly handsome prince Trystan has dragged her right back to his planet. While some girls may dream of winning a prince’s heart, Delaney just wishes this one would leave her alone. Instead, she finds herself at the center of both a tense political battle between two alien kingdoms and Trystan’s romantic attentions, both of which are absolutely ruining the life she’s built on Earth. Not to mention the fact that she’s about to be crowned queen of a planet she’s barely even visited. Just another day in the life of an ordinary human girl. Readers won’t want to miss Between Frost and Fury, the compelling, fast-paced sequel to Chani Lynn Feener’s Amid Stars and Darkness.Praise for Amid Stars and "Give to fans of Melissa Landers’s Alienated and Ally Condie’s Matched." —School Library Journal"Makes for fun, fluffy reading." —Booklist"A thoughtful, sexy adventure with winning characters just begging for a bedtime read." —VOYA
363 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2018
27 people are currently reading
1297 people want to read
About the author
Chani Lynn Feener
64 books1,492 followersLibrarians, please don't add books. I stay up to date and add them myself and have ended up with many multiple copies because others add them later. Thank you!
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
July 16, 2019
Overall feels
Man, this book. Good luck thinking about ANYTHING ELSE for at least a week after finishing it.
After reading Amid Stars and Darkness, I was hard-core jonesing for the sequel. Like, jumping up and down in my room trying to get rid of some pent-up energy jonesing. And babbling to people around me about a frustration over fictional people that they just did not get. So by the time I finally got my hands on this book, I was drunk on happiness.
After so much anticipation, and how high my expectations became for the sequel, you’d think the sequel couldn’t possibly be able to live up to what I wanted from it. But it did! It fricken’ delivered and did not disappoint. (Sorry, Miss Chani, for putting all of my readerly expectations on you. And thank you for giving me everything I wanted anyway.) This is not a relaxing read. If you want to find the energy to train for a marathon, then read this. This is something to read if you want to feel alive and frustrated and overwhelmed, which for me came primarily from wanting the EXACT OPPOSITE of what our protagonist Delaney wants. It’s a decadent, angsty masterpiece that doles out delicious gratification inch by inch. Perhaps I’m masochistic, but that’s exactly what I look for in a romance novel. I hate when they give me exactly what I want without making the characters work for it. Insta-love makes zero sense to me.
Premise in rambles
In the end of space drama part one, Delaney finally gets to go home to earth with a hunky new boyfriend. And at the end of part one, she is kidnapped to go back to dramaville by another hunky, though possessive, prince-of-enemy-territory. All she wants is her normal life as a human girl back. Which is EXACTLY what I DID NOT want. Delaney is like Alice in Wonderland—continually trying to get home, while there’s a far more interesting path open for her to explore.
Possessive hunk-prince Trystan takes Delaney back to the planet she ran from to fulfill her role as the Vakar lissa (princess) because the real lissa Olena is a monster, and if she takes over, then Trystan will be stuck with her along with a whole planet of people who hate her. Also, if Trystan marries Olena, then there’s no one to protect Earth. Trystan would have no reason to stop his father from conquering Earth. Delaney is in the odd position of being able to protect Vakar and Earth because she’s technically representative of both, and Trystan is honor-bound to protect the home(s) of his spouse.
An oddly satisfying angst
The whole time, Delaney just wants to go home and return to the mundane. I’m continually at odds with what Delaney wants, which is an unending frustration for me as a reader. She wants to go home; I want her to be a Vakar ruler. She wants Ruckus; I want Trystan. She wants everything to go back to normal. I want her to dive further into the rabbit hole. I hard-core judge Delaney for her decisions. Disney has conditioned me to believe that everyone wants to be a princess, so I just don't get her choices.
It’s weird, continually hoping the protagonist never gets what she wants. She’s being offered (or rather coerced into taking) a two kingdoms and a hunky prince—oh, and sweet, priceless tri-world peace—and she would still choose the brown paper bag over the silver platter. I couldn’t disagree with her more, which resulted in a lot of yelling at the pages of this book.
A debate on selflessness
Delaney
There’s so much focus on how Delaney is not like Olena, but what they have in common is that they both make selfish choices. There’s a clear void that needs to be filled with someone that cares about the welfare of the people from Vakar and Earth, but Delaney would rather shrug off these problems as someone else’s responsibility. And technically they are, but the alternative is letting the universe go to war and she still won’t take charge.
Yes, her selfish wants are a way of humanizing her and making us relate to her, but by the end, we still want her to be our heroine — to step up to the plate and be more than average, to fill the absent role and protect not just those she cares about but two whole planets of people who need an advocate. Delaney doesn’t walk all over people the way Olena does, but that just means Delaney isn’t human garbage. She needs more to set her apart. She needs to work her way up to being our heroine and not our reluctant pouty princess.
Trystan
Her defiance and strength help us to root for her, but Trystan ultimately wins in the hero department. His one selfish choice is Delaney, so he does make the questionable decision of kidnapping her. But Delaney’s selfish choice is also herself. The difference is that Trystan’s selfish choice means the freedom of three worlds whereas Delaney’s means freedom for one. But even his decision is understandable once you get where he’s coming from (or maybe I'm just rooting for him so much that I'll overlook his flaws). He’s got feelings he doesn’t quite understand, so that makes him rash, but he also knows that Olena ruling over anyone isn’t a good thing. He’s trying to be responsible and broker peace, and attempting a solution that works out for the greatest number.
His character is incredibly well-rounded and multi-dimensional, a bit questionable but also honorable, and it makes him more compelling than Delaney. I understand how making kidnapping seem like the right decision can be a trigger point for some, but Trystan isn’t a perfect character. If this is a dealbreaker for you, then that’s understandable, but this is the second kidnapping episode so far in the series, so if you had a problem with it the first time, then you’re probably not considering reading the second.
Who to choose
Just a side-debate on the love interests. I'm not a fan of Ruckus. It's clear from the last book that he'll put his orders before Delaney, and I'm not getting the vibe that he believes there's any potential in Delaney as a leader. His feelings for her are legitimate, and sure he's a "good guy," but when compared with Trystan, Ruckus fosters Delaney's mediocrity. With Trystan, she's on a path that gives her more purpose. Personally, I think that's just a better storyline. So yes, my Trystan love comes from a place of indulgence, but I also love the potential for a bigger story.
But also, Trystan is just yummy.
Verdict
The majority of the book is a huge frustration when it comes to the protagonist. The whole time I’m yelling at her, telling her to accept her call to adventure, but she’s like, nah, I want to go home and BE VANILLA.
We do get some payoff in the hero development department, but it takes FOREVER. You won’t be disappointed by the ending. The ending to the first book gave me jitters waiting for the continuation of the story, and completely unsatisfied with the enormity of it’s cliffhangery. The ending of this one left me looking forward to the next but still satisfied (though not completely) at the transition we’ve reached.
It’s definitely not the end for these characters, and it ramps you up for the last book.
Man, this book. Good luck thinking about ANYTHING ELSE for at least a week after finishing it.
After reading Amid Stars and Darkness, I was hard-core jonesing for the sequel. Like, jumping up and down in my room trying to get rid of some pent-up energy jonesing. And babbling to people around me about a frustration over fictional people that they just did not get. So by the time I finally got my hands on this book, I was drunk on happiness.
After so much anticipation, and how high my expectations became for the sequel, you’d think the sequel couldn’t possibly be able to live up to what I wanted from it. But it did! It fricken’ delivered and did not disappoint. (Sorry, Miss Chani, for putting all of my readerly expectations on you. And thank you for giving me everything I wanted anyway.) This is not a relaxing read. If you want to find the energy to train for a marathon, then read this. This is something to read if you want to feel alive and frustrated and overwhelmed, which for me came primarily from wanting the EXACT OPPOSITE of what our protagonist Delaney wants. It’s a decadent, angsty masterpiece that doles out delicious gratification inch by inch. Perhaps I’m masochistic, but that’s exactly what I look for in a romance novel. I hate when they give me exactly what I want without making the characters work for it. Insta-love makes zero sense to me.
Premise in rambles
In the end of space drama part one, Delaney finally gets to go home to earth with a hunky new boyfriend. And at the end of part one, she is kidnapped to go back to dramaville by another hunky, though possessive, prince-of-enemy-territory. All she wants is her normal life as a human girl back. Which is EXACTLY what I DID NOT want. Delaney is like Alice in Wonderland—continually trying to get home, while there’s a far more interesting path open for her to explore.
Possessive hunk-prince Trystan takes Delaney back to the planet she ran from to fulfill her role as the Vakar lissa (princess) because the real lissa Olena is a monster, and if she takes over, then Trystan will be stuck with her along with a whole planet of people who hate her. Also, if Trystan marries Olena, then there’s no one to protect Earth. Trystan would have no reason to stop his father from conquering Earth. Delaney is in the odd position of being able to protect Vakar and Earth because she’s technically representative of both, and Trystan is honor-bound to protect the home(s) of his spouse.
An oddly satisfying angst
The whole time, Delaney just wants to go home and return to the mundane. I’m continually at odds with what Delaney wants, which is an unending frustration for me as a reader. She wants to go home; I want her to be a Vakar ruler. She wants Ruckus; I want Trystan. She wants everything to go back to normal. I want her to dive further into the rabbit hole. I hard-core judge Delaney for her decisions. Disney has conditioned me to believe that everyone wants to be a princess, so I just don't get her choices.
It’s weird, continually hoping the protagonist never gets what she wants. She’s being offered (or rather coerced into taking) a two kingdoms and a hunky prince—oh, and sweet, priceless tri-world peace—and she would still choose the brown paper bag over the silver platter. I couldn’t disagree with her more, which resulted in a lot of yelling at the pages of this book.
A debate on selflessness
Delaney
There’s so much focus on how Delaney is not like Olena, but what they have in common is that they both make selfish choices. There’s a clear void that needs to be filled with someone that cares about the welfare of the people from Vakar and Earth, but Delaney would rather shrug off these problems as someone else’s responsibility. And technically they are, but the alternative is letting the universe go to war and she still won’t take charge.
Yes, her selfish wants are a way of humanizing her and making us relate to her, but by the end, we still want her to be our heroine — to step up to the plate and be more than average, to fill the absent role and protect not just those she cares about but two whole planets of people who need an advocate. Delaney doesn’t walk all over people the way Olena does, but that just means Delaney isn’t human garbage. She needs more to set her apart. She needs to work her way up to being our heroine and not our reluctant pouty princess.
Trystan
Her defiance and strength help us to root for her, but Trystan ultimately wins in the hero department. His one selfish choice is Delaney, so he does make the questionable decision of kidnapping her. But Delaney’s selfish choice is also herself. The difference is that Trystan’s selfish choice means the freedom of three worlds whereas Delaney’s means freedom for one. But even his decision is understandable once you get where he’s coming from (or maybe I'm just rooting for him so much that I'll overlook his flaws). He’s got feelings he doesn’t quite understand, so that makes him rash, but he also knows that Olena ruling over anyone isn’t a good thing. He’s trying to be responsible and broker peace, and attempting a solution that works out for the greatest number.
His character is incredibly well-rounded and multi-dimensional, a bit questionable but also honorable, and it makes him more compelling than Delaney. I understand how making kidnapping seem like the right decision can be a trigger point for some, but Trystan isn’t a perfect character. If this is a dealbreaker for you, then that’s understandable, but this is the second kidnapping episode so far in the series, so if you had a problem with it the first time, then you’re probably not considering reading the second.
Who to choose
Just a side-debate on the love interests. I'm not a fan of Ruckus. It's clear from the last book that he'll put his orders before Delaney, and I'm not getting the vibe that he believes there's any potential in Delaney as a leader. His feelings for her are legitimate, and sure he's a "good guy," but when compared with Trystan, Ruckus fosters Delaney's mediocrity. With Trystan, she's on a path that gives her more purpose. Personally, I think that's just a better storyline. So yes, my Trystan love comes from a place of indulgence, but I also love the potential for a bigger story.
But also, Trystan is just yummy.
Verdict
The majority of the book is a huge frustration when it comes to the protagonist. The whole time I’m yelling at her, telling her to accept her call to adventure, but she’s like, nah, I want to go home and BE VANILLA.
We do get some payoff in the hero development department, but it takes FOREVER. You won’t be disappointed by the ending. The ending to the first book gave me jitters waiting for the continuation of the story, and completely unsatisfied with the enormity of it’s cliffhangery. The ending of this one left me looking forward to the next but still satisfied (though not completely) at the transition we’ve reached.
It’s definitely not the end for these characters, and it ramps you up for the last book.
September 6, 2018
AAAAAAAAAHHHHH I NEED BOOK THREE!!!! TEAM TRYSTAN FOR THE WIN!!!!!!
I've been team Trystan since book ONE I LOOOOOOOOOVE his character!!! and honestly he is the ONLY reason I kept going with this series. The first book just really wasn't my thing but I was sucked in and couldn't put the book down all because of HIS character.
I felt that this book was WAAAAY better than book 1 and I can't wait for book 3!!!!
I've been team Trystan since book ONE I LOOOOOOOOOVE his character!!! and honestly he is the ONLY reason I kept going with this series. The first book just really wasn't my thing but I was sucked in and couldn't put the book down all because of HIS character.
I felt that this book was WAAAAY better than book 1 and I can't wait for book 3!!!!
June 2, 2018
Here is the deal: I liked this one. I really did. There is some solid - albeit occasionally predictable - political intrigue going on. Also, great world building. I really like Delaney.
And, as previously established, I even like Trystan (in comparison with Ruckus.)
I actually continued to like Trystan in this book. The author fleshes him out and even throws in some much needed POVs from him.
The problem is....*drum roll please*
It all feeds the love triangle. Honestly, YA authors, can we just call it quits on the love triangle for a little bit? Please?
Because I would actually really like the relationship that developed in this book, except for the whole Ruckus thing. And honestly, can it even be considered a love triangle when Ruckus still has no personality? It is like the author caught the vision for this romance between an earth girl and a murderous alien prince and then threw in another love interest for tension, but forgot to give the other love interest any character traits while she was at it.
I really did enjoy this one. I'd read the third book (if I remember the first two well enough when it comes out.) It has more than a bit of a Hunger Games feel.
And, as previously established, I even like Trystan (in comparison with Ruckus.)
I actually continued to like Trystan in this book. The author fleshes him out and even throws in some much needed POVs from him.
The problem is....*drum roll please*
It all feeds the love triangle. Honestly, YA authors, can we just call it quits on the love triangle for a little bit? Please?
Because I would actually really like the relationship that developed in this book, except for the whole Ruckus thing. And honestly, can it even be considered a love triangle when Ruckus still has no personality? It is like the author caught the vision for this romance between an earth girl and a murderous alien prince and then threw in another love interest for tension, but forgot to give the other love interest any character traits while she was at it.
I really did enjoy this one. I'd read the third book (if I remember the first two well enough when it comes out.) It has more than a bit of a Hunger Games feel.
April 22, 2018
The second instalment in the Xenith trilogy, Between Frost and Fury continues the thrilling and romantic tale of Delaney being kidnapped by aliens to be alien royalty. I swear this isn't trash, its a true blast to read. Amid Stars and Darkness and Between Frost and Fury are like junk food, you know they are not good for you but you just can't stop eating! It tastes so good! Delaney has once again been abducted by aliens, but this time it was on purpose. Trystan is obsessed with the sassy human woman that decided him for so long and captured his heart, and decided to simply take her back home. This, to the absolute horror of Ruckus, who also loves Delaney. As Delaney plots her escape, Trystan plots their future and Ruckus plots to save Delaney. Who will succeed? You'll have to read to find out!
Addicting and just plain fun to read, Between Frost and Fury was just plain fun to read. It kept me on my toes and fully engaged. I love both Ruckus and Trystan, and I have no idea who I want to win Delaney's heart in the end! The characters in this series are so distinct and fun that I couldn't put the book down. I finished in one solid sitting, I loved it immensely, so clearly I recommend this book and this series. I give Between Frost and Fury the honest and excited rating of FIVE OUT OF FIVE STARS!!!
Want more of me? Go to: http://thenotsopubliclibrary.blogspot.ca
November 1, 2021
The second book in the ya trilogy with a love triangle is the other option gets a turn in the spotlight.
You see, we got to know Ruckus in book one, so now it’s Trystan’s turn.
Since I wasn’t wild about Ruckus, I was glad to see Trystan get his turn to win Delaney’s affections. I like the fact that the author didn’t completely butcher Ruckus character to make Trystan appealing.
It’s got a cliffhanger- so just be warned.
You see, we got to know Ruckus in book one, so now it’s Trystan’s turn.
She was here on this planet as herself. There was nothing to hide behind. No false face, or false identity.
“You’ve been here before,” Trystan said after a moment. “Xenith is hardly unknown to you.”
“Ruckus brought me here by accident,” she reminded him. “It was a mistake, and he spent the whole time trying to fix it. You kidnapped me on purpose. You knowingly took me from my home, away from my friends. I. Hate. You. And you don’t even care.”
Since I wasn’t wild about Ruckus, I was glad to see Trystan get his turn to win Delaney’s affections. I like the fact that the author didn’t completely butcher Ruckus character to make Trystan appealing.
“It doesn’t seem that way to you right now, and I understand your reasoning. But I hope, one day, you’ll see it the way I do. I may not be good, but I’m not the bad guy, either.”
It’s got a cliffhanger- so just be warned.
September 22, 2018
This series is genuinely one of the most underrated ever. Seriously. How do more people not know about it?? It's total love <3 <3 I'm obsessed. Where is my sequel???
Between Frost and Fury is the second book in the Xenith Trilogy, and it picks up right back in the action where the first book, Amid Stars and Darkness, leaves off. It took me a little bit to get back into it because we're just dumped right into the action, but I came to love this--no unnecessary time wasted on exposition or fluff.
So Delaney is back in space once again, but this time, she isn't impersonating anyone--no, she's just there as herself! She's been thrown back into politics, and is being used to avert a potential war--a war between three planets that could threaten the homes of all she loves, including her own Earth.
What makes Delaney a really compelling character, though, is the fact that she's flawed. She's realistic. Delaney is just like you and me--she's just a normal person who's been thrown into something that she wants no part of, and keeps trying to get out of, ignoring the fact that it might be starting a war because it doesn't really directly affect her. She's not a savior, a hero--she doesn't feel particularly compelled to put the lives of others above her own wants. And this makes her really relatable, really easy to get into her head.
However, Delaney really does have some significant character growth. Despite being held against her will, she is willing to compromise, to try, and of course, she ends up having to make some sacrifices too. Watching her struggle, not sure exactly what she wants, is really compelling.
Trystan, Trystan, Trystan... This book IS clearly a love triangle, which is really annoying since I pretty much hate love triangles on principle, and this one really isn't an exception. However, I will say that I've been Team Trystan since book one, and so that just made this book that much better for me! Ruckus is really much more of a minor character, and while that and the whole love triangle thing is a little annoying since it seems like the author didn't put much effort into giving him a personality and making there any real competition, I'm lowkey okay with it because it means more Trystan time.
This love triangle actually really reminds me of the love triangle in Shatter Me, with Trystan being Warner and Ruckus being Adam. Ruckus is the sort of lovesick puppy, but Trystan is the one who is willing to make hard decisions, and pushes Delaney to really be better, to be her best person and not just flee back to Earth and take the easy choice.
There are some really complex politics going on here, and I have to admit, they went a little bit over my head. If I recall correctly, they were explained really well in book one, but since it's been about a year since I read that, I mostly forgot it all. I did recall enough to get by and understand the general gist of the book, though I would really recommend reading this series back to back. (And then the torturous waiting period for the next book!)
Another thing that was different from this book and the first was that we got a couple of chapters from Trystan's POV. It's all third person, which is good because I really hate when first person books randomly change, but it still felt a bit cheap, a way to convey knowledge to the reader that we otherwise wouldn't have known. Don't get me wrong--I absolutely adored being in Trystan's head!!!--but since most of the book is from Delaney's POV, it seemed really jarring and out of place.
Overall, I continue loving this series and I can't wait for the next one!! Highly, highly recommend :)
4.5 stars
Between Frost and Fury is the second book in the Xenith Trilogy, and it picks up right back in the action where the first book, Amid Stars and Darkness, leaves off. It took me a little bit to get back into it because we're just dumped right into the action, but I came to love this--no unnecessary time wasted on exposition or fluff.
So Delaney is back in space once again, but this time, she isn't impersonating anyone--no, she's just there as herself! She's been thrown back into politics, and is being used to avert a potential war--a war between three planets that could threaten the homes of all she loves, including her own Earth.
What makes Delaney a really compelling character, though, is the fact that she's flawed. She's realistic. Delaney is just like you and me--she's just a normal person who's been thrown into something that she wants no part of, and keeps trying to get out of, ignoring the fact that it might be starting a war because it doesn't really directly affect her. She's not a savior, a hero--she doesn't feel particularly compelled to put the lives of others above her own wants. And this makes her really relatable, really easy to get into her head.
However, Delaney really does have some significant character growth. Despite being held against her will, she is willing to compromise, to try, and of course, she ends up having to make some sacrifices too. Watching her struggle, not sure exactly what she wants, is really compelling.
Trystan, Trystan, Trystan... This book IS clearly a love triangle, which is really annoying since I pretty much hate love triangles on principle, and this one really isn't an exception. However, I will say that I've been Team Trystan since book one, and so that just made this book that much better for me! Ruckus is really much more of a minor character, and while that and the whole love triangle thing is a little annoying since it seems like the author didn't put much effort into giving him a personality and making there any real competition, I'm lowkey okay with it because it means more Trystan time.
This love triangle actually really reminds me of the love triangle in Shatter Me, with Trystan being Warner and Ruckus being Adam. Ruckus is the sort of lovesick puppy, but Trystan is the one who is willing to make hard decisions, and pushes Delaney to really be better, to be her best person and not just flee back to Earth and take the easy choice.
There are some really complex politics going on here, and I have to admit, they went a little bit over my head. If I recall correctly, they were explained really well in book one, but since it's been about a year since I read that, I mostly forgot it all. I did recall enough to get by and understand the general gist of the book, though I would really recommend reading this series back to back. (And then the torturous waiting period for the next book!)
Another thing that was different from this book and the first was that we got a couple of chapters from Trystan's POV. It's all third person, which is good because I really hate when first person books randomly change, but it still felt a bit cheap, a way to convey knowledge to the reader that we otherwise wouldn't have known. Don't get me wrong--I absolutely adored being in Trystan's head!!!--but since most of the book is from Delaney's POV, it seemed really jarring and out of place.
Overall, I continue loving this series and I can't wait for the next one!! Highly, highly recommend :)
4.5 stars
July 31, 2018
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Young Adult / Science Fiction / Romance
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Between Frost and Fury, by author Chani Lynn Feener, is the second installment in the authors The Xenith Trilogy. It is pretty much imperative that you read the first installment, Amid Stars and Darkness, in order to understand the characters, and the world that our protagonist Delaney, has been dragged into and can't seem to escape. For the second time in her life, and after only a month of being home from her previous excursion off planet, Delaney has been kidnapped, and taken away from Earth
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Genre* Young Adult / Science Fiction / Romance
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Between Frost and Fury, by author Chani Lynn Feener, is the second installment in the authors The Xenith Trilogy. It is pretty much imperative that you read the first installment, Amid Stars and Darkness, in order to understand the characters, and the world that our protagonist Delaney, has been dragged into and can't seem to escape. For the second time in her life, and after only a month of being home from her previous excursion off planet, Delaney has been kidnapped, and taken away from Earth
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
July 4, 2018
*screaming from the rooftops* I LOVED THIS BOOK, LOVEDDDDD!!
I've made it no secret that I absolutely adore Trystan, I loved him from the moment he prowls down the hallway toward Delaney in book 1 and this book delivers the Trystan I was hoping for. He's intelligent (from the ending of book 1 we all know he figured out the real Olena was not the Olena he took a bullet for), he's still an ass but he's also vulnerable ... just, can I have him? Honestly, if Delaney won't scoop him up, then I will.
"I took who I meant to take"
So the book begins exactly where the first book ended, and I don't want to spoil anything because I was literally shaking as I read the opening scene. I was living for those moments! *sighs happily*
When the arc arrived in the mail, I sat in my car by the mailbox reading my little heart out. My husband and I had recently bought a house and I was suppose to be heading over there to help paint .. I was almost two hours late with a crick in my neck but didn't care, the book completely sucked me in!
"He gave her that half smirk, the one that reminded her of a snake trying to beguile a mouse."
I loved that the book has multiple pov's. Ruckus has a few and so does Trystan - you finally get to see a glimpse into his heart and mind and it really sheds some light on his complicated character.
I lived for the moments in ASAD when Delaney would describe the food, drinks, flora, even the landscape! She's on another planet and you can't overlook it. Some sci-fi book seem like they could be in the middle of Ohio for all the details you get, but this one delivers the perfect amount without being overwhelming.
"You're clever. We'll be fine"
The book is well written with an excellent cast of characters and several defined character arcs of growth. Also, at no time did it feel like a filler book for a trilogy, it can stand on its own just fine. I won't say anything else because I'd hate to reveal anything. So just READ IT!
Read the series, read the book. I promise it's amazing!
I've made it no secret that I absolutely adore Trystan, I loved him from the moment he prowls down the hallway toward Delaney in book 1 and this book delivers the Trystan I was hoping for. He's intelligent (from the ending of book 1 we all know he figured out the real Olena was not the Olena he took a bullet for), he's still an ass but he's also vulnerable ... just, can I have him? Honestly, if Delaney won't scoop him up, then I will.
"I took who I meant to take"
So the book begins exactly where the first book ended, and I don't want to spoil anything because I was literally shaking as I read the opening scene. I was living for those moments! *sighs happily*
When the arc arrived in the mail, I sat in my car by the mailbox reading my little heart out. My husband and I had recently bought a house and I was suppose to be heading over there to help paint .. I was almost two hours late with a crick in my neck but didn't care, the book completely sucked me in!
"He gave her that half smirk, the one that reminded her of a snake trying to beguile a mouse."
I loved that the book has multiple pov's. Ruckus has a few and so does Trystan - you finally get to see a glimpse into his heart and mind and it really sheds some light on his complicated character.
I lived for the moments in ASAD when Delaney would describe the food, drinks, flora, even the landscape! She's on another planet and you can't overlook it. Some sci-fi book seem like they could be in the middle of Ohio for all the details you get, but this one delivers the perfect amount without being overwhelming.
"You're clever. We'll be fine"
The book is well written with an excellent cast of characters and several defined character arcs of growth. Also, at no time did it feel like a filler book for a trilogy, it can stand on its own just fine. I won't say anything else because I'd hate to reveal anything. So just READ IT!
Read the series, read the book. I promise it's amazing!
February 10, 2019
Once again, Chani Lynn Feener delivers what the people truly want and deserve.
Book one was that wholesome, wonderful bodyguard romance. This time around, the evil prince and his obsession take the spotlight. And boy, is it good stuff. Delaney remains a fantastic character, earnest and witty and truly morally good. And Trystan is like a good gemstone. You just hold that boy up to the light that is Delaney and turn him around, and you can see all sorts of facets. Truly, this is art. Their dynamic was intense, at times entertaining and at times terrifying. Best of all, slowly woven in was a Beauty and the Beast style tenderness that really just GETS me. If I could give it bonus stars I would.
Book one was that wholesome, wonderful bodyguard romance. This time around, the evil prince and his obsession take the spotlight. And boy, is it good stuff. Delaney remains a fantastic character, earnest and witty and truly morally good. And Trystan is like a good gemstone. You just hold that boy up to the light that is Delaney and turn him around, and you can see all sorts of facets. Truly, this is art. Their dynamic was intense, at times entertaining and at times terrifying. Best of all, slowly woven in was a Beauty and the Beast style tenderness that really just GETS me. If I could give it bonus stars I would.
July 4, 2019
Okay... I've finished my reread and it's still a week and a half before Within Ash and Stardust releases. Brb, I'm bout to sue Nasa for not inventing time travel faster. 🤧🚀
original review:
Delaney and Trystan remind me so much of Cleo and Magnus from Falling Kingdoms.
That series and this one deserve more hype!
And now I've got to wait another year for the next book... 😭📚💖
original review:
Delaney and Trystan remind me so much of Cleo and Magnus from Falling Kingdoms.
That series and this one deserve more hype!
And now I've got to wait another year for the next book... 😭📚💖
August 17, 2023
For first three reviews, scroll down until you see me screaming. Don't worry, you'll know it when you see it.
2023 Review
Dang. This book hits different when you're 5 years removed from the person you were when you used to be absolutely gaga about the series. I don't think my rating is the same anymore but also don't know what to rate it because my past love for this book and my current state of common sense are kind of warring against each other. I don't think I have the heart to change my rating yet.
Re-reading the 4th time around (wow, didn't realize it was that many times already), the book was okay. I still like how creative Feener could be with the alien world she made up, and some of the details are pretty interesting. I'm still Team Trystan. And, you know, I still enjoyed reading the book.
But I have some thoughts.
1) This one's not really problematic, but I kind of feel like it's convenient that the aliens are fairly similar to humans with the exception of how eye color works and maybe physical build. And then there's that bit about their process regarding getting married. Honestly, I approve of it because their serious about making sure compatibility and shared values exist between the couple for a life-long marriage, but the reasoning behind it (weak alien fertility or something so the couple has to have their fertility tuned to the other, if I'm explaining it right) is kind of used as a negative. The characters are like "oh no! we have to mate for life - that's so sad that we can't have kids with anyone we're not married to..."
I digress.
Anyway, another thing related to aliens not being too different than humans is that they have the same color blood (that would've been easy to change - could've been something weird like yellow. *shrug* the options are kind of endless), which maybe that was explained book 1 and I can't remember. *shrug*
And then another related thing is food. I kind of wish that there would have been some exploration of the types of animals on Xenith (unless there was some mention of them in the other book - again, can't remember) because that would've lent more to the world building (not that Feener didn't do a good job, the reader does get a good sense of the buildings and weather and whatnot) and then we could've seen more of this universe. This is probably just me being picky at this point, but it would've been interesting to see how their animals look, act, and if any are house pets, which ones they eat... or what plants are edible or poisonous. It would've probably been difficult, so I'm not complaining. Everything is explained by human reference, which is handy for description and trying to understand but deeper details could have been fun.
2) My sister actually brought this up when I mentioned I needed to read the last chapter or so, but it's a good point. What is it about Delaney? In the past, there were reviews of these books that showed our frustration with her because she just "wanted to be vanilla" and go home and do nothing. So, in the first book, it's obvious she'd want to go home because she got pulled into a situation she never wanted to be in, and the same kind of goes for this book. So what is Delaney's character? She can be fiery and kind and whatever else, but why is she so important? The books happen to her more than she makes things happen in the books - you see what I mean? I mean, she makes some decisions but it really isn't until the end of the last book that she decides what she wants.
My sister asked me how Delaney's character could be described (not in the sense of hair, eyes, height, attitude, yadda yadda but in what makes her worthy of being a main character)... and I couldn't really come up with an answer. It's like being the main character is what makes up her character. But everybody loves or is loyal to her for some reason, and I kind of want to know what it is. I'm not saying I hate Delaney or anything - she's okay. But what is it that Trystan loves so much about her? Ruckus too? I don't mean to be mean, but she's a bit of a special snowflake who manages to get away with it because she isn't annoying about it. These aliens are just like:
3) Quick point: why do stories involving romance tend to have someone undressing in front of the other person for absolutely no reason other than for said undressing character to be ogled briefly by said other character?
This literally came up right near the beginning, and I felt very embarrassed that it happened - not to mention kind of annoyed because, yes, attraction is real, but do we have to... do it like that? You can acknowledge a character is handsome or beautiful and not have them half naked. We're just reducing them to their bodies by doing that. Just sayin'.
Anyway, I think I ran out of thoughts now. Hopefully, you didn't get sick of gifs.
I have to figure out what to read next now.
First Review - 2018
AHHHHHHHHHH!
5 STARS!!!!!
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I AM DISTRAUGHT! THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING!
This book is soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo good! I am literally dying. I was talking to my sister vaguely about this book because she wants to read it still, and my voice got higher when I got to parts that I am upset about and need the last book for! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
OK... I probably should try to conceal my pain but I am seriously suffering and need the next book. Like now. Chani Lynn Feener, can you please hurry? I need to know what happens. I'm dying!
I totally like Trystan WAY more than Ruckus. (Who's Ruckus?) Ruckus was hardly in this one, which was amazing - especially since I am TOTALLY on Team Trystan!
Sorry if this sounds like I am totally against Ruckus... It's because I am. Delaney is stupid for not seeing how Ruckus is not the right choice. Trystan is sooo much better, Delaney!! What are you thinking??? Make the right choice!
After writing this, I feel better but I really do need that next book!
Summer 2019 Update: Second Time Reading
I honestly agree with everything I said prior to this updated version.
Chani Lynn Feener, you better give me the end I want, though. Please.
The third and FINAL book comes out on the 16th but I honestly think that I read these first two too quickly because now I'm still gonna be waiting... in agony... just like last summer.
I have just spent the past three days feeling really, REALLY sad for Trystan. Unrequited love has got to be so much more painful than taking a zee for someone.
But, if Feener is going to write this the way I want, he'll finally have a much happier story like he deserves.
Gosh, it kills me how horrible Delaney is to him. In my mind - and heads up, this may seem totally unrelated but stay with me - Trystan is a little like Mr. Darcy. Calm, collected, with an icy demeanor, which tends to leave the worst first impressions. But once you find out what they are hiding? Then you find out that that person is totally misunderstood and worth it. Ahem, ahem, Delaney!
Okay... I should probably stop feeling sorry for Trystan... at least, for now.
Anyway, I RECOMMEND!!! But you have to read the first book. Otherwise you're are cheating.
2021 Review
I reread this one, on a whim and a need to read a trusted favorite, without rereading the first book. Feels a little weird, I think I forgot about somethings, even though I've read that first book two times, but I don't regret it. Because I got to jump in at just the right point: where Delaney and Trystan get to have an actual chance to be in the spotlight, without so much of Ruckus (puke) getting in the way. Not to mention, book two is my favorite of the series, so... EDIT: I realize, by my own rules from my last review, I cheated. Oops.
Last thoughts after reading it for the third time? I will forever be on Team Trystan.
2023 Review
Dang. This book hits different when you're 5 years removed from the person you were when you used to be absolutely gaga about the series. I don't think my rating is the same anymore but also don't know what to rate it because my past love for this book and my current state of common sense are kind of warring against each other. I don't think I have the heart to change my rating yet.
Re-reading the 4th time around (wow, didn't realize it was that many times already), the book was okay. I still like how creative Feener could be with the alien world she made up, and some of the details are pretty interesting. I'm still Team Trystan. And, you know, I still enjoyed reading the book.
But I have some thoughts.
1) This one's not really problematic, but I kind of feel like it's convenient that the aliens are fairly similar to humans with the exception of how eye color works and maybe physical build. And then there's that bit about their process regarding getting married. Honestly, I approve of it because their serious about making sure compatibility and shared values exist between the couple for a life-long marriage, but the reasoning behind it (weak alien fertility or something so the couple has to have their fertility tuned to the other, if I'm explaining it right) is kind of used as a negative. The characters are like "oh no! we have to mate for life - that's so sad that we can't have kids with anyone we're not married to..."
I digress.
Anyway, another thing related to aliens not being too different than humans is that they have the same color blood (that would've been easy to change - could've been something weird like yellow. *shrug* the options are kind of endless), which maybe that was explained book 1 and I can't remember. *shrug*
And then another related thing is food. I kind of wish that there would have been some exploration of the types of animals on Xenith (unless there was some mention of them in the other book - again, can't remember) because that would've lent more to the world building (not that Feener didn't do a good job, the reader does get a good sense of the buildings and weather and whatnot) and then we could've seen more of this universe. This is probably just me being picky at this point, but it would've been interesting to see how their animals look, act, and if any are house pets, which ones they eat... or what plants are edible or poisonous. It would've probably been difficult, so I'm not complaining. Everything is explained by human reference, which is handy for description and trying to understand but deeper details could have been fun.
2) My sister actually brought this up when I mentioned I needed to read the last chapter or so, but it's a good point. What is it about Delaney? In the past, there were reviews of these books that showed our frustration with her because she just "wanted to be vanilla" and go home and do nothing. So, in the first book, it's obvious she'd want to go home because she got pulled into a situation she never wanted to be in, and the same kind of goes for this book. So what is Delaney's character? She can be fiery and kind and whatever else, but why is she so important? The books happen to her more than she makes things happen in the books - you see what I mean? I mean, she makes some decisions but it really isn't until the end of the last book that she decides what she wants.
My sister asked me how Delaney's character could be described (not in the sense of hair, eyes, height, attitude, yadda yadda but in what makes her worthy of being a main character)... and I couldn't really come up with an answer. It's like being the main character is what makes up her character. But everybody loves or is loyal to her for some reason, and I kind of want to know what it is. I'm not saying I hate Delaney or anything - she's okay. But what is it that Trystan loves so much about her? Ruckus too? I don't mean to be mean, but she's a bit of a special snowflake who manages to get away with it because she isn't annoying about it. These aliens are just like:
3) Quick point: why do stories involving romance tend to have someone undressing in front of the other person for absolutely no reason other than for said undressing character to be ogled briefly by said other character?
This literally came up right near the beginning, and I felt very embarrassed that it happened - not to mention kind of annoyed because, yes, attraction is real, but do we have to... do it like that? You can acknowledge a character is handsome or beautiful and not have them half naked. We're just reducing them to their bodies by doing that. Just sayin'.
Anyway, I think I ran out of thoughts now. Hopefully, you didn't get sick of gifs.
I have to figure out what to read next now.
First Review - 2018
AHHHHHHHHHH!
5 STARS!!!!!
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I AM DISTRAUGHT! THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING!
This book is soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo good! I am literally dying. I was talking to my sister vaguely about this book because she wants to read it still, and my voice got higher when I got to parts that I am upset about and need the last book for! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
OK... I probably should try to conceal my pain but I am seriously suffering and need the next book. Like now. Chani Lynn Feener, can you please hurry? I need to know what happens. I'm dying!
I totally like Trystan WAY more than Ruckus. (Who's Ruckus?) Ruckus was hardly in this one, which was amazing - especially since I am TOTALLY on Team Trystan!
Sorry if this sounds like I am totally against Ruckus... It's because I am. Delaney is stupid for not seeing how Ruckus is not the right choice. Trystan is sooo much better, Delaney!! What are you thinking??? Make the right choice!
After writing this, I feel better but I really do need that next book!
Summer 2019 Update: Second Time Reading
I honestly agree with everything I said prior to this updated version.
Chani Lynn Feener, you better give me the end I want, though. Please.
The third and FINAL book comes out on the 16th but I honestly think that I read these first two too quickly because now I'm still gonna be waiting... in agony... just like last summer.
I have just spent the past three days feeling really, REALLY sad for Trystan. Unrequited love has got to be so much more painful than taking a zee for someone.
But, if Feener is going to write this the way I want, he'll finally have a much happier story like he deserves.
Gosh, it kills me how horrible Delaney is to him. In my mind - and heads up, this may seem totally unrelated but stay with me - Trystan is a little like Mr. Darcy. Calm, collected, with an icy demeanor, which tends to leave the worst first impressions. But once you find out what they are hiding? Then you find out that that person is totally misunderstood and worth it. Ahem, ahem, Delaney!
Okay... I should probably stop feeling sorry for Trystan... at least, for now.
Anyway, I RECOMMEND!!! But you have to read the first book. Otherwise you're are cheating.
2021 Review
I reread this one, on a whim and a need to read a trusted favorite, without rereading the first book. Feels a little weird, I think I forgot about somethings, even though I've read that first book two times, but I don't regret it. Because I got to jump in at just the right point: where Delaney and Trystan get to have an actual chance to be in the spotlight, without so much of Ruckus (puke) getting in the way. Not to mention, book two is my favorite of the series, so... EDIT: I realize, by my own rules from my last review, I cheated. Oops.
Last thoughts after reading it for the third time? I will forever be on Team Trystan.
August 16, 2018
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars!
Same Review Also Posted On My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
Between Frost and Fury is a sequel to Amid Stars and Darkness. I liked this sequel, but at the same time I was a bit disappointed with it. The whole book was mostly focused on the romance drama and less on the other aspects of the story. I knew this book was going to be about Trystan so I was very eager to read it but I didn't expected that Ruckus is going to be sidelined in it and I'm not happy with that part. Although I enjoyed the relationship between Trystan and Delaney, It was a bummer that there's not much action. I really expected more from this book besides the love triangle. I don't hate love triangles if they're done well and this one was predictable yet interesting. I hope the next book is focused a bit more on the story.
The book starts off from where it was left off in the first book. After only a month back on Earth, Delaney gets abducted by Prince Trystan. She's once again gets dragged back to Xenith to fulfill the vows she had made with Trystan when she was being impersonated as Princess Lissa. Now she was held against her will by Tristan who wants to attain peace between Vakar and Kint by marrying her. They both want to avoid the bloodshed and war, but Delaney don't want to become a Queen to an alien Planet that she barely knows and leave her dreams on her home planet. She gets stuck in a political battle between two alien Kingdoms, and had to deal with unwanted romantic attentions from her dark alluring captor who turns out to be much different than she had expected. Delaney needs to make an escape plan before her fate gets sealed forever with Trystan.
I've mixed feelings about Trystan. I hate him but at the same time I love him so much. His character was fleshed out well in this book. He was introduced as a dark and brooding prince in the first book, but we finally get to see the real side of him in this sequel. It's pretty easy to guess that he developed some feelings for Delaney. I was irked by his hot and cold personality towards Delaney. Sometimes he acted like a jerk to her, but he does care for her and tries very hard to win her over. As for Delaney's alien boyfriend Ruckus, he didn't have much part in this book which really disappointed me. I'm actually rooting for Ruckus, but after finishing this book I don't know to whom to root for. Ruckus and Trystan both make strong love interests, but I didn't liked how they're so loyal to their kingdoms. Delaney was pretty enjoyable in this book. I'm glad that she wasn't easily charmed by Trystan's attentions because she loves Ruckus and I don't want her to be an unfaithful girlfriend. At the end, her feelings began to waver a little bit and I don't blame her either, but I hope she makes the right choice in the end.
The plot was engaging filled with royal politics, romance, drama, and adventure. It was a fast paced read. I wish there was a bit more action. This book mostly centered around Delnaey and Trystan, and it would've been great if we also got Ruckus side of the story and how he was planning to rescue Delaney. I think Chani deliberately sidelined Ruckus so Trystan can get the major attention and she didn't failed. Now I'm a bit afraid for my ship because Trystan brings a great challenge to Ruckus and i can't wait to see who'll win at the end. I liked the writing. The book was told in Delaney and Trystan's POV's. I quite enjoyed reading Trystan's POV and loved getting to know more about him and his insecurities. The world building was good. In the first book, we're introduced to Vakar people and their culture, but the second book is all about Kints and their advanced technology.
Overall, I enjoyed this sequel, but it's not my favorite. The book concluded with a minor cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what happens next.
Same Review Also Posted On My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
Between Frost and Fury is a sequel to Amid Stars and Darkness. I liked this sequel, but at the same time I was a bit disappointed with it. The whole book was mostly focused on the romance drama and less on the other aspects of the story. I knew this book was going to be about Trystan so I was very eager to read it but I didn't expected that Ruckus is going to be sidelined in it and I'm not happy with that part. Although I enjoyed the relationship between Trystan and Delaney, It was a bummer that there's not much action. I really expected more from this book besides the love triangle. I don't hate love triangles if they're done well and this one was predictable yet interesting. I hope the next book is focused a bit more on the story.
The book starts off from where it was left off in the first book. After only a month back on Earth, Delaney gets abducted by Prince Trystan. She's once again gets dragged back to Xenith to fulfill the vows she had made with Trystan when she was being impersonated as Princess Lissa. Now she was held against her will by Tristan who wants to attain peace between Vakar and Kint by marrying her. They both want to avoid the bloodshed and war, but Delaney don't want to become a Queen to an alien Planet that she barely knows and leave her dreams on her home planet. She gets stuck in a political battle between two alien Kingdoms, and had to deal with unwanted romantic attentions from her dark alluring captor who turns out to be much different than she had expected. Delaney needs to make an escape plan before her fate gets sealed forever with Trystan.
I've mixed feelings about Trystan. I hate him but at the same time I love him so much. His character was fleshed out well in this book. He was introduced as a dark and brooding prince in the first book, but we finally get to see the real side of him in this sequel. It's pretty easy to guess that he developed some feelings for Delaney. I was irked by his hot and cold personality towards Delaney. Sometimes he acted like a jerk to her, but he does care for her and tries very hard to win her over. As for Delaney's alien boyfriend Ruckus, he didn't have much part in this book which really disappointed me. I'm actually rooting for Ruckus, but after finishing this book I don't know to whom to root for. Ruckus and Trystan both make strong love interests, but I didn't liked how they're so loyal to their kingdoms. Delaney was pretty enjoyable in this book. I'm glad that she wasn't easily charmed by Trystan's attentions because she loves Ruckus and I don't want her to be an unfaithful girlfriend. At the end, her feelings began to waver a little bit and I don't blame her either, but I hope she makes the right choice in the end.
The plot was engaging filled with royal politics, romance, drama, and adventure. It was a fast paced read. I wish there was a bit more action. This book mostly centered around Delnaey and Trystan, and it would've been great if we also got Ruckus side of the story and how he was planning to rescue Delaney. I think Chani deliberately sidelined Ruckus so Trystan can get the major attention and she didn't failed. Now I'm a bit afraid for my ship because Trystan brings a great challenge to Ruckus and i can't wait to see who'll win at the end. I liked the writing. The book was told in Delaney and Trystan's POV's. I quite enjoyed reading Trystan's POV and loved getting to know more about him and his insecurities. The world building was good. In the first book, we're introduced to Vakar people and their culture, but the second book is all about Kints and their advanced technology.
Overall, I enjoyed this sequel, but it's not my favorite. The book concluded with a minor cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what happens next.
July 28, 2019
UPDATED 7/28/19: Read it for the second time. Still full of romantic tension and fun! On to the final book now!
ORIGINAL REVIEW 8/2/18:
Ahhh, now that's what I call fun . . . such a lovely guilty pleasure, this one.
I don't know how Chani Lynn Feener does it, but from the first chapter of her books, she has me unintentionally clearing my schedule for the next few hours because I'm so engrossed in the world she creates. In this case, I picked up the book last night, intending to only read a few chapters before my sister could catch me reading her book without her permission when all of a sudden it was 2 AM, my sister had caught me hours ago, I was already halfway done with the book and I was kind of tired, but I didn't want to let something as trivial as sandy eyes stop me from finishing it right then. But it was 2 AM, and I'd need another 2 hours to finish probably. It was hard but I stopped to get some sleep--and then woke up early to race to the end before even eating breakfast. (Talk about motivation and the power of a good book, lol.)
Anyway, there was so much I liked about this one--I'd give it a solid 4.8 stars.
1 Star for . . . That Beginning
From the start, this book takes off running with Delaney kidnapped. Again. (She must be the most charismatic kind of girl since everyone is willing to go to extremes to be with her.) But unlike in the first one, the world didn't need to be built--so the action could seamlessly meld with the alien world, politics, and characters without a lot of explaining. This I liked.
2.8 Stars for . . . Less Ruckus and More Trystan
Okay--when I first read the first book in this series, I thought it was endearing how Ruckus protected and encouraged Delaney. But when I reread the first book, I sort of felt that some of Ruckus' lines were kind of cheesy and sappy--too utterly devoted (and kind of manipulating) to be real. Sort of like both of them were too desperately clinging to their relationship with each other to notice anything else. Sort of like Ruckus only wanted one thing *cough*.
THIS book, in contrast, had Trystan really grappling with his feelings--it wasn't all gushing "I love you forever and for always" all the time. He hides his feelings, keeps them close and protected, even when speaking them honestly to Delaney might very well help her see him in a better light. He DOESN'T want to admit what he feels for Delaney, even though I'm sure he suspects it and others (namely Ruckus) can see it for themselves as well. I thought this made the romance much more real because, in all honesty, who in life is really so confident and sure as to truly share how they feel about another person without fear of rejection. This relationship felt more vulnerable, fragile, and therefore more enjoyable to watch unfold precisely because I didn't know what was going to happen, unlike with Ruckus who "would always be there no matter the consequences" and could as easily pronounce his love for Delaney as he could admit he was a bad cook. (By the way, the fact that Trystan IS a good cook is yet another point in his favor. Just sayin'!) I don't mean that Ruckus doesn't care for her . . . I'm just saying I am totally cheering on Team Trystan WAY more. This second romance feels so much more mature and "in it for the long haul" than Delaney and Ruckus' fling from Book One.
Plus, Trystan's lines are usually very clever and intelligent, not just some sappy love and protection mush like Ruckus' sometimes were (and I mean this in the best possible way--because I'm rooting for Trystan AND I'm assuming Feener wants us to cheer for Trystan because of these reasons). Trystan also encouraged Delaney to become intelligent by getting her a tutor, and he also wanted her to be able to protect herself with some basic self-defense lessons that he gave her himself.
(Though I am a bit hesitant to wholeheartedy recommend Trystan because circumstances encourage him to protect Delaney almost TOO much. I mean, he picks out her clothes all the time, feeds her from his own fork, chooses what she eats and when, reminds himself to "feed her more regularly," sips her drink before she can [to prevent any poisoning], puts her in a room he designed for her and that won't let anyone in or out (her especially) unless they are approved or have a password [which he doesn't give her], and hijacks her communication tech from Ruckus without telling her so he can listen in on her conversations with Ruckus. The romance and delight of these moments was thrilling in context, but I couldn't quite ignore the niggling feeling that Delaney was kind of becoming a "kept-woman" or a doll Trystan could play with or forget about whenever he so chooses. The fact that he didn't manipulate Delaney or use her unfairly or forget about her and that he had good reasons for all his above actions assuaged my worry a bit, but THE POTENTIAL for this still exists, so I still thought I'd note this concern for others. Maybe book three will continue to make her even more independent and this concern will go away?)
Anyway, more Trystan also meant more sparks between them. This book was filled with scenes that I love Love LOVED. I especially enjoyed their banter (most anytime), the Positioning and the lead up to it, the gift choosing and receiving scenes, the special dinner, the snowball fight, but my favorite scene is for sure the Compatibility Test. They were so cute together. They had each others' backs, listened to each other, made decisions together, each took a non-lethal "bullet," and had some fun and shared some banter in the process. Favorite for sure!
1 Star for . . . That Ending, though
Just as with the beginning, I was totally hooked by this ending, and just like Trystan, I am in it for the long haul and need to know the ending of this series. I'm not really in suspense about Trystan (because OF COURSE he HAS to be okay after all we've been through in this series), but I am in suspense about how Delaney and Trystan will defy the Rex (because they HAVE TO to be together) and about how Delaney will end things with Ruckus (because she HAS to, to make me happy).
I guess all that's left to say is that nobody does a series and a romance like Chani Lynn Feener. If you've read the first or, heck, just enjoy a good romance, you'll want to pick this one up, even if it's just for a fun afternoon (or really late night) of exhilarating reading.
ORIGINAL REVIEW 8/2/18:
Ahhh, now that's what I call fun . . . such a lovely guilty pleasure, this one.
I don't know how Chani Lynn Feener does it, but from the first chapter of her books, she has me unintentionally clearing my schedule for the next few hours because I'm so engrossed in the world she creates. In this case, I picked up the book last night, intending to only read a few chapters before my sister could catch me reading her book without her permission when all of a sudden it was 2 AM, my sister had caught me hours ago, I was already halfway done with the book and I was kind of tired, but I didn't want to let something as trivial as sandy eyes stop me from finishing it right then. But it was 2 AM, and I'd need another 2 hours to finish probably. It was hard but I stopped to get some sleep--and then woke up early to race to the end before even eating breakfast. (Talk about motivation and the power of a good book, lol.)
Anyway, there was so much I liked about this one--I'd give it a solid 4.8 stars.
1 Star for . . . That Beginning
From the start, this book takes off running with Delaney kidnapped. Again. (She must be the most charismatic kind of girl since everyone is willing to go to extremes to be with her.) But unlike in the first one, the world didn't need to be built--so the action could seamlessly meld with the alien world, politics, and characters without a lot of explaining. This I liked.
2.8 Stars for . . . Less Ruckus and More Trystan
Okay--when I first read the first book in this series, I thought it was endearing how Ruckus protected and encouraged Delaney. But when I reread the first book, I sort of felt that some of Ruckus' lines were kind of cheesy and sappy--too utterly devoted (and kind of manipulating) to be real. Sort of like both of them were too desperately clinging to their relationship with each other to notice anything else. Sort of like Ruckus only wanted one thing *cough*.
THIS book, in contrast, had Trystan really grappling with his feelings--it wasn't all gushing "I love you forever and for always" all the time. He hides his feelings, keeps them close and protected, even when speaking them honestly to Delaney might very well help her see him in a better light. He DOESN'T want to admit what he feels for Delaney, even though I'm sure he suspects it and others (namely Ruckus) can see it for themselves as well. I thought this made the romance much more real because, in all honesty, who in life is really so confident and sure as to truly share how they feel about another person without fear of rejection. This relationship felt more vulnerable, fragile, and therefore more enjoyable to watch unfold precisely because I didn't know what was going to happen, unlike with Ruckus who "would always be there no matter the consequences" and could as easily pronounce his love for Delaney as he could admit he was a bad cook. (By the way, the fact that Trystan IS a good cook is yet another point in his favor. Just sayin'!) I don't mean that Ruckus doesn't care for her . . . I'm just saying I am totally cheering on Team Trystan WAY more. This second romance feels so much more mature and "in it for the long haul" than Delaney and Ruckus' fling from Book One.
Plus, Trystan's lines are usually very clever and intelligent, not just some sappy love and protection mush like Ruckus' sometimes were (and I mean this in the best possible way--because I'm rooting for Trystan AND I'm assuming Feener wants us to cheer for Trystan because of these reasons). Trystan also encouraged Delaney to become intelligent by getting her a tutor, and he also wanted her to be able to protect herself with some basic self-defense lessons that he gave her himself.
(Though I am a bit hesitant to wholeheartedy recommend Trystan because circumstances encourage him to protect Delaney almost TOO much. I mean, he picks out her clothes all the time, feeds her from his own fork, chooses what she eats and when, reminds himself to "feed her more regularly," sips her drink before she can [to prevent any poisoning], puts her in a room he designed for her and that won't let anyone in or out (her especially) unless they are approved or have a password [which he doesn't give her], and hijacks her communication tech from Ruckus without telling her so he can listen in on her conversations with Ruckus. The romance and delight of these moments was thrilling in context, but I couldn't quite ignore the niggling feeling that Delaney was kind of becoming a "kept-woman" or a doll Trystan could play with or forget about whenever he so chooses. The fact that he didn't manipulate Delaney or use her unfairly or forget about her and that he had good reasons for all his above actions assuaged my worry a bit, but THE POTENTIAL for this still exists, so I still thought I'd note this concern for others. Maybe book three will continue to make her even more independent and this concern will go away?)
Anyway, more Trystan also meant more sparks between them. This book was filled with scenes that I love Love LOVED. I especially enjoyed their banter (most anytime), the Positioning and the lead up to it, the gift choosing and receiving scenes, the special dinner, the snowball fight, but my favorite scene is for sure the Compatibility Test. They were so cute together. They had each others' backs, listened to each other, made decisions together, each took a non-lethal "bullet," and had some fun and shared some banter in the process. Favorite for sure!
1 Star for . . . That Ending, though
Just as with the beginning, I was totally hooked by this ending, and just like Trystan, I am in it for the long haul and need to know the ending of this series. I'm not really in suspense about Trystan (because OF COURSE he HAS to be okay after all we've been through in this series), but I am in suspense about how Delaney and Trystan will defy the Rex (because they HAVE TO to be together) and about how Delaney will end things with Ruckus (because she HAS to, to make me happy).
I guess all that's left to say is that nobody does a series and a romance like Chani Lynn Feener. If you've read the first or, heck, just enjoy a good romance, you'll want to pick this one up, even if it's just for a fun afternoon (or really late night) of exhilarating reading.
July 26, 2018
i'm winning but at what cost
June 18, 2018
A more in-depth review of this book will be live on my blog on July 16th as part of the Between Frost and Fury Blog Tour: My Endless Shelf
This book blew me away!
I've been waiting for this book ever since I read and loved the first one and I was so excited when I finally got my hands on an ARC from the lovely team at Swoon Reads.
The pacing, character development, world building, politics, tension, chemistry, conflict, drama - I love it all!
The character POV's are perfect and I love the new insight into the characters from book 1.
Be prepared for another cliffhanger ending - It was so good, and I can't wait for book 3!!
This book blew me away!
I've been waiting for this book ever since I read and loved the first one and I was so excited when I finally got my hands on an ARC from the lovely team at Swoon Reads.
The pacing, character development, world building, politics, tension, chemistry, conflict, drama - I love it all!
The character POV's are perfect and I love the new insight into the characters from book 1.
Be prepared for another cliffhanger ending - It was so good, and I can't wait for book 3!!
Want to read
September 20, 2021absolutely getting this book.
July 21, 2018
Thank you to Xpresso Book Tours and author Chani Lynn Feener for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Between Frost and Fury is the second novel in The Xenith Trilogy by Chani Lynn Feener and is an exhilarating and enjoyable sci-fi tale that takes readers back into an intriguing and appealing intergalactic world full of colourful characters.
Delaney Grace was only back on Earth with her new boyfriend Ruckus for one month before she was kidnapped by aliens; again. Now she is being held prisoner by the devastatingly handsome and determined alien prince Trystan who wants to use Delaney to enter into a peace treaty with his people’s enemies…..through holy matrimony. Trystan is sure the best way to unite the Kint and Vakar people is through a marriage and seeing as Delaney was technically the person he was bound to when she was impersonating the Vakar heir, Trystan is determined to make Delaney follow through with her promise. Stuck in the middle of a political battle between two kingdoms, Delaney must navigate Trystan’s romantic attentions as well as find a way to get back home to earth before she is named queen of a planet she desperately wants to escape. Yet as it becomes clear that Trystan’s plan isn't the biggest danger out there, will Delaney's loyalties change or will she continue to only be a pawn in someone else's game?
Heading into Between Frost and Fury I was somewhat perplexed. I immensely enjoyed the first novel, Amid Stars and Darkness, and given it’s shocking cliff-hanger ending was eager to see what Chani Lyn Feener did next, but I was also worried. Not over the quality of writing or the excitement I was sure was to come with the storyline. I was worried about a potential love triangle. I’ve probably said this before, but one of my biggest pet peeves is the dreaded love triangle and I was afraid that this would become an issue within this story. Something that eventually came to pass….but boy if I don’t like the way in which Chani Lyn Feener writes this particular love triangle. If there’s one thing I hate more than love triangles it’s love triangles where I genuinely love both love interests. And this is what Feener has done with Between Frost and Fury!
I very much enjoyed the relationship between Delaney and Ruckus in the first novel, but oh how my heart bleeds for Trystan in this instalment. It’s very rare that I switch teams after making my choice, but in this instance I may have to make an exception as there’s just something so captivating about Trystan. The depth and nuances Chani Lyn Feener explores and introduces within him in Between Frost and Fury truly make me adore the guy even if I can see why he continues to frustrate and enrage Delaney. I do feel like he deserves happiness so I'll be keen to see if he's the one to get the girl.
Chani Lyn Feener has a likeable protagonist in Delaney who is sarcastic and fiery in all the right ways. She's sharp and quick on her feet and I've enjoyed following her throughout the trilogy so far although I do admit I very much appreciated the chapters and glimpses through Trystan's eyes in this instalment. This made it much easier to see where he was coming from and what he was feeling while still being able to stand with Delaney as she navigated the circumstances she found herself in.
Between Frost and Fury builds to another climactic ending which sees Delaney come to some unwanted truths about her feelings and leaves the characters in a situation where they'll need to all come together to defeat a massive threat. Chani Lyn Feener leaves me dying for the third and final instalment, once again eager to see what will happen next with this thrilling trilogy.
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Between Frost and Fury is the second novel in The Xenith Trilogy by Chani Lynn Feener and is an exhilarating and enjoyable sci-fi tale that takes readers back into an intriguing and appealing intergalactic world full of colourful characters.
Delaney Grace was only back on Earth with her new boyfriend Ruckus for one month before she was kidnapped by aliens; again. Now she is being held prisoner by the devastatingly handsome and determined alien prince Trystan who wants to use Delaney to enter into a peace treaty with his people’s enemies…..through holy matrimony. Trystan is sure the best way to unite the Kint and Vakar people is through a marriage and seeing as Delaney was technically the person he was bound to when she was impersonating the Vakar heir, Trystan is determined to make Delaney follow through with her promise. Stuck in the middle of a political battle between two kingdoms, Delaney must navigate Trystan’s romantic attentions as well as find a way to get back home to earth before she is named queen of a planet she desperately wants to escape. Yet as it becomes clear that Trystan’s plan isn't the biggest danger out there, will Delaney's loyalties change or will she continue to only be a pawn in someone else's game?
Heading into Between Frost and Fury I was somewhat perplexed. I immensely enjoyed the first novel, Amid Stars and Darkness, and given it’s shocking cliff-hanger ending was eager to see what Chani Lyn Feener did next, but I was also worried. Not over the quality of writing or the excitement I was sure was to come with the storyline. I was worried about a potential love triangle. I’ve probably said this before, but one of my biggest pet peeves is the dreaded love triangle and I was afraid that this would become an issue within this story. Something that eventually came to pass….but boy if I don’t like the way in which Chani Lyn Feener writes this particular love triangle. If there’s one thing I hate more than love triangles it’s love triangles where I genuinely love both love interests. And this is what Feener has done with Between Frost and Fury!
I very much enjoyed the relationship between Delaney and Ruckus in the first novel, but oh how my heart bleeds for Trystan in this instalment. It’s very rare that I switch teams after making my choice, but in this instance I may have to make an exception as there’s just something so captivating about Trystan. The depth and nuances Chani Lyn Feener explores and introduces within him in Between Frost and Fury truly make me adore the guy even if I can see why he continues to frustrate and enrage Delaney. I do feel like he deserves happiness so I'll be keen to see if he's the one to get the girl.
Chani Lyn Feener has a likeable protagonist in Delaney who is sarcastic and fiery in all the right ways. She's sharp and quick on her feet and I've enjoyed following her throughout the trilogy so far although I do admit I very much appreciated the chapters and glimpses through Trystan's eyes in this instalment. This made it much easier to see where he was coming from and what he was feeling while still being able to stand with Delaney as she navigated the circumstances she found herself in.
Between Frost and Fury builds to another climactic ending which sees Delaney come to some unwanted truths about her feelings and leaves the characters in a situation where they'll need to all come together to defeat a massive threat. Chani Lyn Feener leaves me dying for the third and final instalment, once again eager to see what will happen next with this thrilling trilogy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2023
3/5 stars
**This review contains spoilers for the first book, Amid Stars and Darkness. If you want my non-spoilery thoughts on that book, go to my review for it, and read the first half**
Spoiler-Free Thoughts:
Broad:
It has been over two years since I read the first book, but I was able to remember what was going on and keep up mostly with ease. I know that if I had read this when I was younger, I would have rated it higher. Regardless, it was still good. We jump in right where we left off at the end of the first book with Delaney being kidnapped by Trystan. I liked how the dynamics between the characters and the world-building are developing.
Summary:
Delaney has been kidnapped by Trystan, who intends to take her back to Xenith, where she will be made the Lissa (queen) and be bound (married) to Trystan, because of an oath she made in the first book when she was pretending to be Olena.
Specific:
I don't remember much about my thoughts of the first book (I have a review, but it's not every single thought), and I don't know what I would think about it now - specifically what I would think about Trystan in the first book now. Obviously, because we were with him for the entire book, his character was very developed, and so I like him more than I did at the beginning (literally the only thing I remember about him in the first is that he was betrothed to Olena and that he kidnapped Delaney).
This book we focussed not only on getting to know him more, but also the traditions of the Xenith.
SPOILERS:
WHY love triangles!?!?!? I know it's a really big trope especially for YA books written around this time, but I don't really read them often, so when I do it catches me off guard. I knew when he said they were going to be married that that was going to happen, but STILL!! I don't remember Ruckus' personality outside of the fact that he was her guard-turned-lover, so it's not that hard for me to choose Trystan over him, especially since that's where I think it's going to go. Now only a matter of if Ruckus is going to do something terrible or die... only time will tell.
I liked the scenes where Trystan and Delaney's relationship was developing, but especially the maze/paintball-like fight, anytime she used Earth slang, and when he was opening up to her.
Conclusion:
I'm excited to read the next book soon. I thought that this was a pretty good sequel, and will end up being a pretty good series!
**This review contains spoilers for the first book, Amid Stars and Darkness. If you want my non-spoilery thoughts on that book, go to my review for it, and read the first half**
Spoiler-Free Thoughts:
Broad:
It has been over two years since I read the first book, but I was able to remember what was going on and keep up mostly with ease. I know that if I had read this when I was younger, I would have rated it higher. Regardless, it was still good. We jump in right where we left off at the end of the first book with Delaney being kidnapped by Trystan. I liked how the dynamics between the characters and the world-building are developing.
Summary:
Delaney has been kidnapped by Trystan, who intends to take her back to Xenith, where she will be made the Lissa (queen) and be bound (married) to Trystan, because of an oath she made in the first book when she was pretending to be Olena.
Specific:
I don't remember much about my thoughts of the first book (I have a review, but it's not every single thought), and I don't know what I would think about it now - specifically what I would think about Trystan in the first book now. Obviously, because we were with him for the entire book, his character was very developed, and so I like him more than I did at the beginning (literally the only thing I remember about him in the first is that he was betrothed to Olena and that he kidnapped Delaney).
This book we focussed not only on getting to know him more, but also the traditions of the Xenith.
SPOILERS:
WHY love triangles!?!?!? I know it's a really big trope especially for YA books written around this time, but I don't really read them often, so when I do it catches me off guard. I knew when he said they were going to be married that that was going to happen, but STILL!! I don't remember Ruckus' personality outside of the fact that he was her guard-turned-lover, so it's not that hard for me to choose Trystan over him, especially since that's where I think it's going to go. Now only a matter of if Ruckus is going to do something terrible or die... only time will tell.
I liked the scenes where Trystan and Delaney's relationship was developing, but especially the maze/paintball-like fight, anytime she used Earth slang, and when he was opening up to her.
Conclusion:
I'm excited to read the next book soon. I thought that this was a pretty good sequel, and will end up being a pretty good series!
July 17, 2018
Delaney sure knows how to find trouble, through no fault of her own. When she spotted Trystan, the prince of the alien species she had pseudo been engaged to who she just left behind (for good she thought), Delaney knew she was his target. Not surprising, she wakes up on his spaceship on the way back to his planet. His reasoning for grabbing her is surprising though- Trystan wants her to fulfill the obligation he originally thought she was part of- to marry him and become the queen to settle the unrest among his-their people.
You know how some book series you don't realize you missed until you pick up the next installment and jump back in to the world? Yeah, well that was not the case with this series- I knew exactly how much I missed this story, the people, the conflict, the romance and the awesome alien world that Chani created. When I read book 1 Amid Stars and Darkness I had no idea I was entering into a trilogy, I had assumed it was a stand alone, but the surprise ending totally threw me- and since then I have been counting down the days to get my grabby hands on this book! Between Frost and Fury was no sequel full of boring filler, just noise to get through for the epic conclusion that a bunch of trilogies suffer from- nope, this was full of action, political intrigue, character development as well as a change in the relationship dynamics, all completely necessary and so interesting I had a hard time doing real world things that did not revolve around reading.
I know I am not suppose to say this, but I have always had a soft spot for the arrogant, domineering, at times surprisingly considerate Trystan. Don't get me wrong, I love Ruckus and he is a perfectly nice guy that Delaney could have a happily ever after with... But Trystan challenges her, pushes her, secretly wuvs her (even though it is such a secret he doesn't even know it), and I really like him. I know, but it had to be said. And yes, this could be called a love triangle (the dreaded love triangle at work!) but it was really well done and I loved both guys and the story was not an angst filled drama of Delaney wondering "who do I pick?" Sure romance is a part of the story, but not the main focus and it was so well balanced into the action and plot.
Chani, you are awesome and this review is basically a fangirl letter to how much I love this series and need the next asap. I have to know what will happen next...and I will read whatever you want to write (as long as your next is book 3 in this series and then whatever else you want- not to be pushy or anything.)
I am voluntarily reviewing a complimentary copy of this title. Visit me at Smada's Book Smack
You know how some book series you don't realize you missed until you pick up the next installment and jump back in to the world? Yeah, well that was not the case with this series- I knew exactly how much I missed this story, the people, the conflict, the romance and the awesome alien world that Chani created. When I read book 1 Amid Stars and Darkness I had no idea I was entering into a trilogy, I had assumed it was a stand alone, but the surprise ending totally threw me- and since then I have been counting down the days to get my grabby hands on this book! Between Frost and Fury was no sequel full of boring filler, just noise to get through for the epic conclusion that a bunch of trilogies suffer from- nope, this was full of action, political intrigue, character development as well as a change in the relationship dynamics, all completely necessary and so interesting I had a hard time doing real world things that did not revolve around reading.
I know I am not suppose to say this, but I have always had a soft spot for the arrogant, domineering, at times surprisingly considerate Trystan. Don't get me wrong, I love Ruckus and he is a perfectly nice guy that Delaney could have a happily ever after with... But Trystan challenges her, pushes her, secretly wuvs her (even though it is such a secret he doesn't even know it), and I really like him. I know, but it had to be said. And yes, this could be called a love triangle (the dreaded love triangle at work!) but it was really well done and I loved both guys and the story was not an angst filled drama of Delaney wondering "who do I pick?" Sure romance is a part of the story, but not the main focus and it was so well balanced into the action and plot.
Chani, you are awesome and this review is basically a fangirl letter to how much I love this series and need the next asap. I have to know what will happen next...and I will read whatever you want to write (as long as your next is book 3 in this series and then whatever else you want- not to be pushy or anything.)
I am voluntarily reviewing a complimentary copy of this title. Visit me at Smada's Book Smack
October 29, 2019
Another one for team Trystan here!!
Ok he kidnapped, he even threaten, annoyed Delaney to no end but, apparently, its all for the show. Someone's gonna keep up with his reputation, duh! And I think everyone's pinning for the bad boy everytime cause let's admit it, in their case, there's always more than meets the eye.
Their snarky banters were highly entertaining. There were definitely a chemistry between Delaney and Trystan . I wasnt really big on Ruckus eversince, so I was all rooting for the arrogant ice- Zane., especially after backtracking and getting to know more about him.
I'm usually displeased with a love triangle but it this case, I would make a pass. This was kind of different from any other annoying love triangle I've read, the characters were all matured enough and even had high respect for their rivals, and I admired that.
The pacing's for this sequel had intensified compared to the first one, which makes it more engrossing. It's action packed, more intense power plays and political blah blahs and the romance definitely upped in the swoon-worthy department than its predecessor.
I had a good theory in mind on how this will end and I would really love to know if my guess was right. Until then, let me have my moment and reread those few swoony chapters of Trystan 😍😍😍
Ok he kidnapped, he even threaten, annoyed Delaney to no end but, apparently, its all for the show. Someone's gonna keep up with his reputation, duh! And I think everyone's pinning for the bad boy everytime cause let's admit it, in their case, there's always more than meets the eye.
Their snarky banters were highly entertaining. There were definitely a chemistry between Delaney and Trystan . I wasnt really big on Ruckus eversince, so I was all rooting for the arrogant ice- Zane., especially after backtracking and getting to know more about him.
I'm usually displeased with a love triangle but it this case, I would make a pass. This was kind of different from any other annoying love triangle I've read, the characters were all matured enough and even had high respect for their rivals, and I admired that.
The pacing's for this sequel had intensified compared to the first one, which makes it more engrossing. It's action packed, more intense power plays and political blah blahs and the romance definitely upped in the swoon-worthy department than its predecessor.
I had a good theory in mind on how this will end and I would really love to know if my guess was right. Until then, let me have my moment and reread those few swoony chapters of Trystan 😍😍😍
February 27, 2019
Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! I CAN'T BREATH! I AM FREAKING OUT!!!! This book was SO FLIPPING GOOD! *Deep breaths* Okay, let me try to formulate thoughts.
So I really enjoyed the first book in this series and one-clicked the second book right away. Well, the second book BLEW MY MIND!! Like aaaah! I can't even. It so nice that we got to have Delaney back as herself but she was a little more frustrating in this one though for good reasons. I'm sorry Ruckus but I'm 100% Team Trystan! I always secretly root for the "bad boy".
Ruckus is so darn sweet though. But honestly in book one their relationship seemed almost too easy and didn't quite have the chemistry she has with Trystan. And this one was filled with so much angst and hate/love. It was so wonderful to see a softer, incredibly, sweet side to Trystan. I mean I never thought my heart would be swooning so hard over a guy helping a girl put on heels or feeding her dinner.
This book gave me major Shatter Me vibes. Like Trystan reminded me a lot of Warner which I love those books. I'm a sucker for a love triangle and thought this one is so well done too. The overall story plot is so interesting and unique too! I read this book so fast it felt like I blinked and was done.
But those last 20 pages. MY HEART WAS RACING and I couldn't read fast enough!!!!! It was so intense and insane!! I am DYING for the next book. I can't wait and I'm so nervous. Crossing my ship makes it through!! Dude, if you like a good YA fantasy/ romance READ THIS SERIES. It needs to be more popular!
So I really enjoyed the first book in this series and one-clicked the second book right away. Well, the second book BLEW MY MIND!! Like aaaah! I can't even. It so nice that we got to have Delaney back as herself but she was a little more frustrating in this one though for good reasons. I'm sorry Ruckus but I'm 100% Team Trystan! I always secretly root for the "bad boy".
Ruckus is so darn sweet though. But honestly in book one their relationship seemed almost too easy and didn't quite have the chemistry she has with Trystan. And this one was filled with so much angst and hate/love. It was so wonderful to see a softer, incredibly, sweet side to Trystan. I mean I never thought my heart would be swooning so hard over a guy helping a girl put on heels or feeding her dinner.
This book gave me major Shatter Me vibes. Like Trystan reminded me a lot of Warner which I love those books. I'm a sucker for a love triangle and thought this one is so well done too. The overall story plot is so interesting and unique too! I read this book so fast it felt like I blinked and was done.
But those last 20 pages. MY HEART WAS RACING and I couldn't read fast enough!!!!! It was so intense and insane!! I am DYING for the next book. I can't wait and I'm so nervous. Crossing my ship makes it through!! Dude, if you like a good YA fantasy/ romance READ THIS SERIES. It needs to be more popular!
October 7, 2019
Really enjoying this sci fi series! Trystan was a really interesting character in the first book, and it was fun getting to see more of him. Delaney is feisty and stands up for herself. I don’t mind love triangles when they’re done well, and this one was done reeeally well. I can’t wait to finish off the trilogy.
July 21, 2018
In the first book Amid Stars and Darkness Delaney was kidnapped by this hot alien Ruckus and taken to another planet to impersonate the Lissa when she ran away. They needed Delaney to impersonate the Lissa to stop a war between two planets.
And now in Between Frost and Fury Delaney has been kidnapped again but this time by the handsome Zane Trystan but for another reason all together. Trystan has become enchanted by Delaney and wants her to be his queen. Delaney now has to persuade the people on Trystan’s planet to accept her as their queen. But there is one person that is dead set against a human becoming the queen. Well actually I think there is probably more than one person that doesn’t want to see Delaney become the queen, Delaney being at the top of that list.
For now Delaney has to play by his rules and bide her time until she can find a way out of this mess and a way back home to Earth to be with her boyfriend Ruckus and the life that she had started to build with Ruckus there after being rescued the first time.
Between Frost and Fury will have you zooming through the pages rooting for Delaney and hoping she will find her way back to Ruckus. But now after getting to know Trystan a little better you want to root for him as well. But the real question is who will Delaney chose after getting to know Trystan more? Her choice is all that matters. Will she be given a choice in the matter?
I loved the world that the author has created for the Xenith’s and the aliens and being able to visit another planet and riding on a spaceship. When reading Between Frost and Fury it made you feel as if you were there riding on that spaceship and running up and down the halls with Trystan and Delaney as if you were training with them. I loved all the things that Delaney would say and Trystan not understanding what she meant. It reminded me of that movie Starman staring Jeff Bridges and Karen Allen. I can’t wait to read the next book.
I would highly recommend Between Frost and Fury to all fans of aliens, science fiction, spaceships and life on other planets with hot alien men.
And now in Between Frost and Fury Delaney has been kidnapped again but this time by the handsome Zane Trystan but for another reason all together. Trystan has become enchanted by Delaney and wants her to be his queen. Delaney now has to persuade the people on Trystan’s planet to accept her as their queen. But there is one person that is dead set against a human becoming the queen. Well actually I think there is probably more than one person that doesn’t want to see Delaney become the queen, Delaney being at the top of that list.
For now Delaney has to play by his rules and bide her time until she can find a way out of this mess and a way back home to Earth to be with her boyfriend Ruckus and the life that she had started to build with Ruckus there after being rescued the first time.
Between Frost and Fury will have you zooming through the pages rooting for Delaney and hoping she will find her way back to Ruckus. But now after getting to know Trystan a little better you want to root for him as well. But the real question is who will Delaney chose after getting to know Trystan more? Her choice is all that matters. Will she be given a choice in the matter?
I loved the world that the author has created for the Xenith’s and the aliens and being able to visit another planet and riding on a spaceship. When reading Between Frost and Fury it made you feel as if you were there riding on that spaceship and running up and down the halls with Trystan and Delaney as if you were training with them. I loved all the things that Delaney would say and Trystan not understanding what she meant. It reminded me of that movie Starman staring Jeff Bridges and Karen Allen. I can’t wait to read the next book.
I would highly recommend Between Frost and Fury to all fans of aliens, science fiction, spaceships and life on other planets with hot alien men.
March 16, 2018
This book is everything I wanted it to be!!!!
REVIEW TO COME CLOSER TO RELEASE DATE
REVIEW TO COME CLOSER TO RELEASE DATE
February 17, 2020
I enjoyed this SO much, mainly because the focus was very Trystan-heavy. I've figured out by now that I love a certain type of love interest character. The ones who do bad things, are damaged and broken and are mean and hurtful on purpose at first... except they're only that way for a reason/they only seem that way ( ex: Rhysand, Warner, Damon Salvatore, you see where I'm going with this), and then their soft spot ends up being the person they fall in love with. The person who makes them see reason, helps them put themselves back together, the person who gives them the motivation to be better.
Trystan is more than just a bad boy, too. He's literally admitted to trying to kill Delaney when he thought she was Olena. He kidnaps Delaney at the very beginning of this book. Both of which could be triggers btw, if this isn't the kind of romance you're into. But by the end of book 2, we're starting to see redemption and I just really really love that. I love that in book 1, I hated him, then started to see myself liking him and questioning all of it, and then hoping the author wasn't messing with me. She wasn't, thank God. I'm fairly certain I get what I want at the end of this series.
The book itself, when you take out my (apparent) favorite romance trope, it good, but could've used maybe another round of edits, I guess? If this is your kind of book though, you'll be able to get past any small issues like . But I'm letting that go as long as it doesn't happen again in the final book lol.
I CAN'T WAIT FOR MORE TRYSTAN. Yay.
Trystan is more than just a bad boy, too. He's literally admitted to trying to kill Delaney when he thought she was Olena. He kidnaps Delaney at the very beginning of this book. Both of which could be triggers btw, if this isn't the kind of romance you're into. But by the end of book 2, we're starting to see redemption and I just really really love that. I love that in book 1, I hated him, then started to see myself liking him and questioning all of it, and then hoping the author wasn't messing with me. She wasn't, thank God. I'm fairly certain I get what I want at the end of this series.
The book itself, when you take out my (apparent) favorite romance trope, it good, but could've used maybe another round of edits, I guess? If this is your kind of book though, you'll be able to get past any small issues like . But I'm letting that go as long as it doesn't happen again in the final book lol.
I CAN'T WAIT FOR MORE TRYSTAN. Yay.
October 3, 2018
Couldn't put it down
Editing this review to say... that 2 months after reading this series and I still am having trouble immersing myself into other books. This one is certainly staying with me. Is it too soon to reread it?
Absolutely loved this book! After reading #2, I believe I'm more of a Trystan than a Ruckus fan. Great story, enjoyable world building, fun characters and entertaining events. Can't wait for book #3!!
Editing this review to say... that 2 months after reading this series and I still am having trouble immersing myself into other books. This one is certainly staying with me. Is it too soon to reread it?
Absolutely loved this book! After reading #2, I believe I'm more of a Trystan than a Ruckus fan. Great story, enjoyable world building, fun characters and entertaining events. Can't wait for book #3!!
November 10, 2019
Where did my review go? Well I will retype it soon. I was lucky enough to get an ARC and this eas one of my favorite reads of 2017!! 5 stars plus a million more.
December 20, 2018
This series is SO good and the covers 😍
August 26, 2018
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
Picking up immediately where AMID STARS AND DARKNESS leaves off, BETWEEN FROST AND FURY throws the reader into the middle of a completely ridiculous scenario with little back story. This is not a book for a reader who has not read the first book in the trilogy - in fact, even having read the first book of the trilogy I was a bit lost for the first chapter or so.
And BETWEEN FROST AND FURY isn't exactly a model of amazing science fiction world building. There's a paragraph or so of Trystan explaining the geography of Xenith, some delightful descriptions of alien food and the occasional bit about the politics of the world but otherwise there isn't much explanation beyond what the author needs to make the story keep moving along.
My biggest problem with the book is that I kept feeling a parallel to Sarah J. Maas' A COURT OF MIST AND FURY. Delaney spends book one with one hero, and book two with a different hero, similar to Feyre in the first two books of ACOTAR series. Now, it's not a perfect comparison - I think Delaney and Trystan's relationship is far different than Feyre and Rhysand's - but it was hard not to see the similarities. And with that, came the frustration of the weird love triangle. Normally I hate love triangles, but this one isn't so straightforward, as Delaney doesn't really like Trystan. Or does she?
Regardless of my complaints, did I enjoy this book? Oh yes I definitely did. I picked it up and did not put it down until I had finished it at 1:00 in the morning. There were some moments where I certainly thought Delaney was annoying and hated Trystan, but damn, there were also moments where I was cheering Delaney on! It was frustrating to have the entire book without barely a single reminder of why Delaney loved Ruckus so much but seeing her kick some major alien ass at points was totally worth it. Plus, the side characters are great! Sanzie, Dom and the evil Rex add dimension to the story in such wonderful ways. And whoa, is the bad guy such a bad guy!
Basically, BETWEEN FROST AND FURY is summer fluff, science fiction without the science and an enjoyable diversion. I was enthralled by Delaney's story and while I am maybe not holding my breath until the next book is released, I will be picking it up when it comes out, because I definitely want to know how the whole thing ends.
Sexual content: Kissing.
Picking up immediately where AMID STARS AND DARKNESS leaves off, BETWEEN FROST AND FURY throws the reader into the middle of a completely ridiculous scenario with little back story. This is not a book for a reader who has not read the first book in the trilogy - in fact, even having read the first book of the trilogy I was a bit lost for the first chapter or so.
And BETWEEN FROST AND FURY isn't exactly a model of amazing science fiction world building. There's a paragraph or so of Trystan explaining the geography of Xenith, some delightful descriptions of alien food and the occasional bit about the politics of the world but otherwise there isn't much explanation beyond what the author needs to make the story keep moving along.
My biggest problem with the book is that I kept feeling a parallel to Sarah J. Maas' A COURT OF MIST AND FURY. Delaney spends book one with one hero, and book two with a different hero, similar to Feyre in the first two books of ACOTAR series. Now, it's not a perfect comparison - I think Delaney and Trystan's relationship is far different than Feyre and Rhysand's - but it was hard not to see the similarities. And with that, came the frustration of the weird love triangle. Normally I hate love triangles, but this one isn't so straightforward, as Delaney doesn't really like Trystan. Or does she?
Regardless of my complaints, did I enjoy this book? Oh yes I definitely did. I picked it up and did not put it down until I had finished it at 1:00 in the morning. There were some moments where I certainly thought Delaney was annoying and hated Trystan, but damn, there were also moments where I was cheering Delaney on! It was frustrating to have the entire book without barely a single reminder of why Delaney loved Ruckus so much but seeing her kick some major alien ass at points was totally worth it. Plus, the side characters are great! Sanzie, Dom and the evil Rex add dimension to the story in such wonderful ways. And whoa, is the bad guy such a bad guy!
Basically, BETWEEN FROST AND FURY is summer fluff, science fiction without the science and an enjoyable diversion. I was enthralled by Delaney's story and while I am maybe not holding my breath until the next book is released, I will be picking it up when it comes out, because I definitely want to know how the whole thing ends.
Sexual content: Kissing.
June 25, 2018
Delaney has been kidnapped from Earth again. This time she finds herself captured by Trystan who is the heir to one kingdom. Delaney, through some actions that she didn't quite understand, is the heir to the other kingdom. If the two of them get married, they will prevent a war.
The main problem with this is that Delaney is in love with another guy. Ruckus was the one who kidnapped her in the first book but they fell in love anyway. Also, she's from Earth and doesn't want to be involved in Xenith's problems. She just wants to be rescued by her boyfriend and go home.
With her boyfriend imprisoned by Trystan, Delaney is forced to go through the betrothal protocol for her new planet. She thinks she has made a deal with Trystan that will allow her to do enough to satisfy his father but ultimately be allowed to return home. Only Trystan's father - the Rex - has his own plans and Delaney's happiness doesn't matter to him at all.
I really started to like Trystan in this story and so did Delaney though she felt like she was betraying Ruckas by doing so. It was interesting to learn more about him after seeing him mainly as the villain in the first story.
This is book two of a trilogy. The ending is unresolved in many ways. I'm curious to know if she is going to choose between the two boys and which one she'll choose.
The main problem with this is that Delaney is in love with another guy. Ruckus was the one who kidnapped her in the first book but they fell in love anyway. Also, she's from Earth and doesn't want to be involved in Xenith's problems. She just wants to be rescued by her boyfriend and go home.
With her boyfriend imprisoned by Trystan, Delaney is forced to go through the betrothal protocol for her new planet. She thinks she has made a deal with Trystan that will allow her to do enough to satisfy his father but ultimately be allowed to return home. Only Trystan's father - the Rex - has his own plans and Delaney's happiness doesn't matter to him at all.
I really started to like Trystan in this story and so did Delaney though she felt like she was betraying Ruckas by doing so. It was interesting to learn more about him after seeing him mainly as the villain in the first story.
This is book two of a trilogy. The ending is unresolved in many ways. I'm curious to know if she is going to choose between the two boys and which one she'll choose.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews