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The Waljan Chronicles #1
Child of Fire, Child of Ice
A millennia old vision foretold their bond. Their parents arrange their marriage to seal an alliance between two dying, warring planets. Lies and political intrigue could cause both to crumble.
Cendis is a planet of fire and Avala, a planet of ice. Both in a tenuous truce since the gods stripped them of their gifts after the planets went to war with each other. Eighteen years ago, while plotting to break the truce, the king and fifteen advisors on both planets suddenly drop dead on both planets. Sixteen special children with old gifts and new gifts are born on both Cendis and Avala and trained in secret.
The secret factions rest all their hopes on the alliance and bringing everyone to the new paradise planet on eighteen year old Elan, the Cendian prince, and Isolde, the Avalian Princess’s shoulders. Isolde leaves for Cendis disguised as a Cendian slave not wanting any part of meeting Elan and bonding with him.
When certain lies come to light, their bond is already in jeopardy. When a traitor in the Cendian faction is revealed, both their lives are in danger.
309 pages, ebook
First published March 30, 2018
10 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
About the author
J.B. Trepagnier
121 books814 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author JB Trepagnier is secretly 30 feral cats in a trench coat and combat boots writing romance with a shared feral cat hive mind.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
November 30, 2018
Fiery characters and palace intrigue! This has some amazing world building. Two cursed planets, sixteen children blessed by the gods. Secret factions… arranged marriages… is it any wonder that Isolde and Elan want little to do with their pre-arranged “bonding” at first, even if it is meant to unite their two planets? I enjoyed both characters, the levels of secrecy they had been forced to endure as children, the snark back and forth.
This is a rich, interesting world with SO many characters, and between the assassination attempts, the fighting, how to fix a society so broken by norms like slavery and arranged marriage while you take lovers on the side, and the meddling mothers (loved the hidden cameras, lol!), who can blame the two for being on edge and not warming up to things in a let’s start this whole bonding thing sort of way?
This had a great mix of court politics, two young royals who desperately want to save their planets and their people, as well as nicely written steamy scenes that err on the child of fire side for sure! I liked how the emotional relationship between our two main characters had a natural build to it. Between the fighting and the verbal sparring, I totally ship them 😊. We get into some interesting twists towards the end that I won’t spoil here, but definitely Elan and Isolde will have their work cut out for them on Ragnis Crystal.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
This is a rich, interesting world with SO many characters, and between the assassination attempts, the fighting, how to fix a society so broken by norms like slavery and arranged marriage while you take lovers on the side, and the meddling mothers (loved the hidden cameras, lol!), who can blame the two for being on edge and not warming up to things in a let’s start this whole bonding thing sort of way?
This had a great mix of court politics, two young royals who desperately want to save their planets and their people, as well as nicely written steamy scenes that err on the child of fire side for sure! I liked how the emotional relationship between our two main characters had a natural build to it. Between the fighting and the verbal sparring, I totally ship them 😊. We get into some interesting twists towards the end that I won’t spoil here, but definitely Elan and Isolde will have their work cut out for them on Ragnis Crystal.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
June 1, 2018
This book shows a fertile imagination: the world-building is broad in scope and includes many interesting ideas. The central love story is well handled, despite the rather stereotyped device of initial dislike followed by a gradual breaking down of barriers. The main character, Isolde, is convincingly portrayed: her actions and reactions resonate with the reader.
Having said that, I really struggled to get through this book. There were several reasons for this:
The author writes in almost a stream-of-consciousness style, which is highly colloquial. This results in frequent broken sentences where the grammar doesn't add up, words are misspelled or inappropriately used, and pronouns litter the text with no clarity about who they refer to. "The man in the mask, my costume, was them?" For some, this might be a plus (if you speak the writer's dialect); but for me it was a constant struggle to make sense of what I was reading.
The pour-it-all-out writing style also gave rise to quite a few statements that were contradictory or illogical: I can only hear what she's thinking right this minute unless I'm touching her. And the beautiful non sequitur: …he made their situation worse because they were already as far down as they could go.
The basic setup is unrealistically symmetrical and programmatic. Two worlds, one ice cold, the other fire-hot. A female protagonist on one, a male on the other, each manipulated by their mother, who is the queen regent in both cases. Parallel powers on each world, and parallel loss of powers, followed by sixteen unusual births on each world. And so on.
All the above factors gave the book a childish feel to me. "Yes, yes!" Viljar [an adult] yelled, cracking his knuckles. In fact I seriously wondered if it was children's book—until I hit the first steamy sex scene. So, no, it's not a children's book, but the writing, setup and plot are often naive and immature. YA at the most.
Then there was way too much telling instead of showing. The Prologue was entirely telling—explaining the background of the two worlds instead of demonstrating it through the characters and events. The same kept happening throughout the book. Towards the end, when it should have been building up to the climax, I was continually thrown off by unnecessary explanations—sometimes long paragraphs of it—that bogged the action down rather than increasing the tension. And the end of the story, when it finally came, was abrupt and anticlimactic.
The best I can say is that if you like young-adult fantasy with a good sprinkling of sex, speak the author's dialect, don't mind fractured grammar, can stand long explanations in a good cause, and don't demand too much reality in a story's basic setup—then I'm sure you will enjoy this book.
Having said that, I really struggled to get through this book. There were several reasons for this:
The author writes in almost a stream-of-consciousness style, which is highly colloquial. This results in frequent broken sentences where the grammar doesn't add up, words are misspelled or inappropriately used, and pronouns litter the text with no clarity about who they refer to. "The man in the mask, my costume, was them?" For some, this might be a plus (if you speak the writer's dialect); but for me it was a constant struggle to make sense of what I was reading.
The pour-it-all-out writing style also gave rise to quite a few statements that were contradictory or illogical: I can only hear what she's thinking right this minute unless I'm touching her. And the beautiful non sequitur: …he made their situation worse because they were already as far down as they could go.
The basic setup is unrealistically symmetrical and programmatic. Two worlds, one ice cold, the other fire-hot. A female protagonist on one, a male on the other, each manipulated by their mother, who is the queen regent in both cases. Parallel powers on each world, and parallel loss of powers, followed by sixteen unusual births on each world. And so on.
All the above factors gave the book a childish feel to me. "Yes, yes!" Viljar [an adult] yelled, cracking his knuckles. In fact I seriously wondered if it was children's book—until I hit the first steamy sex scene. So, no, it's not a children's book, but the writing, setup and plot are often naive and immature. YA at the most.
Then there was way too much telling instead of showing. The Prologue was entirely telling—explaining the background of the two worlds instead of demonstrating it through the characters and events. The same kept happening throughout the book. Towards the end, when it should have been building up to the climax, I was continually thrown off by unnecessary explanations—sometimes long paragraphs of it—that bogged the action down rather than increasing the tension. And the end of the story, when it finally came, was abrupt and anticlimactic.
The best I can say is that if you like young-adult fantasy with a good sprinkling of sex, speak the author's dialect, don't mind fractured grammar, can stand long explanations in a good cause, and don't demand too much reality in a story's basic setup—then I'm sure you will enjoy this book.
June 11, 2018
Because the premise of this story is ambitious and imaginative the author chose to use a prologue to give the reader a brief history with explanations. Unfortunately that did little to help me understand each page as the story proceeded.
The style of writing, for me, was difficult to get thru. As another reviewer stated so accurately, the authors use of so many pronouns made the flow of, the clarity of, the story difficult to "see" clearly in my minds eye. I found myself having to re-read often to make sure I was clear with what the author was trying to convey. And it soon became too frustrating!
The story felt choppy, with very short seemingly incomplete sentences, to paragraph long sentences. (Although I'm no English major) This is what it FELT like to me.
Whoever edited this and published this should of been kind enough to help the author out by doing a better job. It is an ambitious idea, and with some extensive editing and even more extensive re writing this has the potential to be a good story.
The style of writing, for me, was difficult to get thru. As another reviewer stated so accurately, the authors use of so many pronouns made the flow of, the clarity of, the story difficult to "see" clearly in my minds eye. I found myself having to re-read often to make sure I was clear with what the author was trying to convey. And it soon became too frustrating!
The story felt choppy, with very short seemingly incomplete sentences, to paragraph long sentences. (Although I'm no English major) This is what it FELT like to me.
Whoever edited this and published this should of been kind enough to help the author out by doing a better job. It is an ambitious idea, and with some extensive editing and even more extensive re writing this has the potential to be a good story.
June 2, 2018
Review: CHILD OF FIRE, CHILD OF ICE
This novel is listed as Sci Fi Romance, but I prefer to categorize it as Epic Sci Fantasy, because although it is futuristic and takes place on two planets beyond this solar system, and its galaxy contains a wormhole (all of these would qualify it as science fiction), a number of elements seem more like fantasy. The offspring on each of the two planets evolve to form telepathic bonds with an animal species; later on some develop serious telepathic abilities; and the forms of government (monarchical) cleave more to those found in epic or heroic fantasy than is usual in science fiction.
Cendis is a fiery planet, suitable to the former desert dwellers from Earth who first colonized it. Offspring born on Cendis can start fires with thought.
Avala is a cold planet, with an extended winter. Offspring born there create ice daggers rather than fire. The two planets, each of which has serious issues to overcome, refuse to cooperate or exchange facts and would rather war, till a drastic simultaneous event insures eventual change.
This novel is listed as Sci Fi Romance, but I prefer to categorize it as Epic Sci Fantasy, because although it is futuristic and takes place on two planets beyond this solar system, and its galaxy contains a wormhole (all of these would qualify it as science fiction), a number of elements seem more like fantasy. The offspring on each of the two planets evolve to form telepathic bonds with an animal species; later on some develop serious telepathic abilities; and the forms of government (monarchical) cleave more to those found in epic or heroic fantasy than is usual in science fiction.
Cendis is a fiery planet, suitable to the former desert dwellers from Earth who first colonized it. Offspring born on Cendis can start fires with thought.
Avala is a cold planet, with an extended winter. Offspring born there create ice daggers rather than fire. The two planets, each of which has serious issues to overcome, refuse to cooperate or exchange facts and would rather war, till a drastic simultaneous event insures eventual change.
June 2, 2018
Child of Fire, Child of Ice, a sci-fi romance that is the first entry in the Waljan Chronicles, is a well-crafted novel which held my interest particularly due to the development of the relationship between two main characters, Isolde (the Avalian princess) and Elan (the Cendian prince), who start off warily intrigued by one another and grow close throughout the course of the tale. And, beyond that, there is so much here that comprises the makings of a unique universe, from Cendis (a fire planet) to Avala (an ice planet) to Ragnis-Crystal (a paradise planet discovered by Avalian faction members after the development of a blink drive that allows them to jump through a wormhole), to the bond animals, which deserve special mention since they are highly inventive. The story includes its share of faction leaders, both secret and not, as well as characters with special abilities. Waljans Nia and Joakim, for example, are trained in healing and can plant images in the minds of the sick and dying to ease their transitions. Atikah and Sonja are able to torture others with their minds. Gareng and Jon can manipulate memories. Karta and Bella can send high-pitched frequencies to disable or torture. Eros and Alva and manipulate sleep and dreams. Oleh and Rolf can create mental barriers to prevent others from remembering things. Rusita and Astvar learn and teach through touch. Jake and Palina can glimpse the future. Dasimah and Finn can switch minds with others. Sura and Mina can see energies around people. And Parta and Lusinda can sense moves before they are made while in battle. Of course, there wouldn't be tension without an adversary or two. Hikmat wants to kill Isolde and capture Elan to ascend to the throne himself, but he has a twin who plans on betraying him. The fact that there is such a rich tapestry of characters in such a colorful environment enhances a story that solidly paced and understood, from the prologue, which gives the background of Cendis and Avala's history, straight through to the end.
May 1, 2018
Cendis is a planet of fire and Avala a planet of ice. The culture, religious beliefs, buildings, technology, flora and fauna of both of the planets and their peoples are depicted in remarkable detail, down to the food that they eat and the furniture in their homes, so readers can use all their senses to soak up the atmosphere of both worlds.
The two peoples have evolved considerably from their origins on Earth and have been at war with each other. In addition, sixteen children, born on each planet on the same day eighteen years before, have been endowed with special powers to bring about a new future.
The two main protagonists, the Avalian princess Isolde and the Cendian prince Elan are complex and interesting characters, whose relationship gets off to a stormy start owing to the ill-advised plotting of their guardians. Their relationship with their bond animals was reminiscent of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and added an extra dimension to the emotional conflicts.
Despite giving us detailed information about the origins of the conflicts between the two peoples, the mythological and theological background to the story and a large cast of characters, including the sixteen on Cendis and their differing powers, the author still manages to keep the narrative fast moving and believable. There is plenty of sexual tension between the protagonists, plotting and scheming on all sides, graphic fight scenes and extensive use of supernatural powers, such as mind-reading and manipulation of memories and dreams.
A compelling read for lovers of science fiction, epic fantasy and paranormal romance.
The two peoples have evolved considerably from their origins on Earth and have been at war with each other. In addition, sixteen children, born on each planet on the same day eighteen years before, have been endowed with special powers to bring about a new future.
The two main protagonists, the Avalian princess Isolde and the Cendian prince Elan are complex and interesting characters, whose relationship gets off to a stormy start owing to the ill-advised plotting of their guardians. Their relationship with their bond animals was reminiscent of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and added an extra dimension to the emotional conflicts.
Despite giving us detailed information about the origins of the conflicts between the two peoples, the mythological and theological background to the story and a large cast of characters, including the sixteen on Cendis and their differing powers, the author still manages to keep the narrative fast moving and believable. There is plenty of sexual tension between the protagonists, plotting and scheming on all sides, graphic fight scenes and extensive use of supernatural powers, such as mind-reading and manipulation of memories and dreams.
A compelling read for lovers of science fiction, epic fantasy and paranormal romance.
June 1, 2018
Wow! I couldn't put this book down because I didn't want to miss any of the action. Islode is ready to meet the man she is supposed to marry. Elan acts like he's childlike to fool everyone else, but not for his future queen. Together they wants both the planet of fire and the planter of ice to come together. They have many obstacles to overcome and mysteries to figure out, but together they can do anything. This is a must read! The ending will have you begging for book 2 JB Trepagnier is a scifi/fantasy goddess!
May 23, 2018
This book hurt my brain. The reading style is choppy, the adjectives used in conversations (like he "yelled" but it didn't fit with the words they were speaking) threw me off and sometimes the dialogue went from person to person without pause. So much so that I lost track of who was even speaking.
I was curious to see the relationship develop between Isolde and Elan but it came across as immature.
The intimate scenes were well done, but everything else was a confusing mass of character names, planets, pets, names for pets, history and names, and then the revolt, and then more character names for the "16". I just totally lost the story line at 50% and am all done now. Next!
I was curious to see the relationship develop between Isolde and Elan but it came across as immature.
The intimate scenes were well done, but everything else was a confusing mass of character names, planets, pets, names for pets, history and names, and then the revolt, and then more character names for the "16". I just totally lost the story line at 50% and am all done now. Next!
May 9, 2018
If you grew up on the tales of Darkover or Pern you will love Child of Fire, Child of Ice.
This is not your normal coming of age story, nor your normal "only you can save the world" story,
Here the worlds are well thought out and developed as we get to see part of them through the protagonists' eyes. We learn their history, and get a glimpse of their potential future.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
This is not your normal coming of age story, nor your normal "only you can save the world" story,
Here the worlds are well thought out and developed as we get to see part of them through the protagonists' eyes. We learn their history, and get a glimpse of their potential future.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
August 12, 2018
After leaving Earth, the remained of the human went to two drastically different and extremely harsh planets, one of ice and one of fire. Over time the people changed and evolved into some different from what they were on Earth. They developed magical skills, skills that, after a few generations they were losing until 16 were born with special powers. Two of these children had their lives planned out in secrecy to bring the two planets to a more inhabitable planet and under one rule. Yet when the realize they have been lied to by the ones they trusted the most, that the 16 were actually destined for one another and the plans they've depended on for so long take a massive turn, coming up with a new one together is more dangerous than ever before.
What a great book. I loved the mysteriousness of the ice and fire, what the 16 were meant to do and of course the relationship of Elan and Isolde. How brave can one be to leave their planet and journey to another to meet the one. Over the years hiding who you truly are for the greater good of the people. I loved that Isolde could be so strong and Elan played his part better than anyone could have imagined. Overcoming the trials and sabotaging of The Children. All in all, I really loved this book. I am definitely looking forward to more. I gave this a five star read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from
Romance Authors that Rock. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What a great book. I loved the mysteriousness of the ice and fire, what the 16 were meant to do and of course the relationship of Elan and Isolde. How brave can one be to leave their planet and journey to another to meet the one. Over the years hiding who you truly are for the greater good of the people. I loved that Isolde could be so strong and Elan played his part better than anyone could have imagined. Overcoming the trials and sabotaging of The Children. All in all, I really loved this book. I am definitely looking forward to more. I gave this a five star read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from
Romance Authors that Rock. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 13, 2018
Two somewhat hostile planets, both settled from Earth. Two populations who are bitter enemies and who have lost special abilities that they used to have. One day, quite unexpectedly, a number of men die – and sixteen children are conceived on each planet. Sixteen children, born to high-born families, each with unique abilities, some of which are historically abilities of their planets and others which are complete surprises. One of these children will be the king of his planet. One will be the queen of the other.
They are, everybody says, destined for each other – this will be the basis for uniting the populations and moving to a new planet, a veritable paradise. Only – the only citizens from either planet on the other are slaves. How to get these two together? How to merge two historically hostile populations?
And in the meantime, how to convince this young queen-to-be that the boy-child she’s been told about for years is worthy of her? He still plays with dolls, they tell her. He’s a mommy’s boy, they tell her.
There are surprises a-plenty in store for everyone, including the reader. A very engaging story and well worth the read.
They are, everybody says, destined for each other – this will be the basis for uniting the populations and moving to a new planet, a veritable paradise. Only – the only citizens from either planet on the other are slaves. How to get these two together? How to merge two historically hostile populations?
And in the meantime, how to convince this young queen-to-be that the boy-child she’s been told about for years is worthy of her? He still plays with dolls, they tell her. He’s a mommy’s boy, they tell her.
There are surprises a-plenty in store for everyone, including the reader. A very engaging story and well worth the read.
June 7, 2018
"Child of Fire, Child of Ice" is the first in an ambitious fantasy series. I won this book in a goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest opinion.
I wanted to like this book. I was rooting for this book. There's some good ideas in this book and the cover's gorgeous.
Unfortunately the writing is extremely clumsy and poor. We're TOLD a lot of things. An awful lot of things. There's infodumps everywhere. The prologue to the book could be an entire novel in itself. We have characters who, we're told, argue all night long about X, Y, and Z but we don't see the actual argument when the actual argument would reveal a lot about the characters, the worlds, the plot, etc. There's fight choreography that doesn't make sense and there's really explicit, and abrupt, sex scenes that aren't really thought out.
This book reads like a very raw first draft, which is a same. It could be a good book if it went through a few more revisions and had some stuff pared away and other stuff expanded on. But as it is, it's really not great.
It's a shame. I love epic fantasy and there's some good kernels of it in here. Unfortunately there's not enough to make the book worth finishing. I bailed 20% through.
I hate giving negative reviews and if this wasn't part of a giveaway I wouldn't have reviewed it. It's not the worst thing I've read but... skip it unless a future version gets heavily edited.
I wanted to like this book. I was rooting for this book. There's some good ideas in this book and the cover's gorgeous.
Unfortunately the writing is extremely clumsy and poor. We're TOLD a lot of things. An awful lot of things. There's infodumps everywhere. The prologue to the book could be an entire novel in itself. We have characters who, we're told, argue all night long about X, Y, and Z but we don't see the actual argument when the actual argument would reveal a lot about the characters, the worlds, the plot, etc. There's fight choreography that doesn't make sense and there's really explicit, and abrupt, sex scenes that aren't really thought out.
This book reads like a very raw first draft, which is a same. It could be a good book if it went through a few more revisions and had some stuff pared away and other stuff expanded on. But as it is, it's really not great.
It's a shame. I love epic fantasy and there's some good kernels of it in here. Unfortunately there's not enough to make the book worth finishing. I bailed 20% through.
I hate giving negative reviews and if this wasn't part of a giveaway I wouldn't have reviewed it. It's not the worst thing I've read but... skip it unless a future version gets heavily edited.
June 4, 2018
Child of Fire, Child of Ice by J.B. Trepagnier, is the first book in the science-fiction/fantasy series the Waljan Chronicles. Set in futuristic space on the two planets of Cendis & Avala, it's also a drama between two different races that have earthly ancestors, the Cendians & the Avalians. And central to its plot is a romance that burns throughout the novel, between Elan, the Cendian Prince - and Isolde, the Avalian Princess.
In a Shakespearean turn, the two warring planets have hope for true peace and prosperity through the joining of these two young people from opposing families, and in this case also different races. The planets of Cendris and and Avala need each other because of their differing resources, and they are also connected through a group of 32 young people who have been born with special abilities. They can wield fire, ice - and manipulate minds. And, according to a secret faction made up of both Cendians & Avalians, there is another planet - a "paradise" planet - waiting for them, where they can build a new civilization. And it's Elan & Isolde's job to rule them there. But before they can rule together, they have to bond - and they have to navigate through the many lies they've been told.
A story that is filled with tension, action & charged with a romance between two strong characters - this is a sci-fi/fantasy trip that many readers will enjoy. The gorgeous cover itself will cause people to stop and look, but Isolde and Elan will keep them turning the pages. This is a space opera/romance that doesn't disappoint, and I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the Waljan Chronicles. And I won't have long to wait - as book 2, Escape to Ragnis Crystal, comes out later this month.
In a Shakespearean turn, the two warring planets have hope for true peace and prosperity through the joining of these two young people from opposing families, and in this case also different races. The planets of Cendris and and Avala need each other because of their differing resources, and they are also connected through a group of 32 young people who have been born with special abilities. They can wield fire, ice - and manipulate minds. And, according to a secret faction made up of both Cendians & Avalians, there is another planet - a "paradise" planet - waiting for them, where they can build a new civilization. And it's Elan & Isolde's job to rule them there. But before they can rule together, they have to bond - and they have to navigate through the many lies they've been told.
A story that is filled with tension, action & charged with a romance between two strong characters - this is a sci-fi/fantasy trip that many readers will enjoy. The gorgeous cover itself will cause people to stop and look, but Isolde and Elan will keep them turning the pages. This is a space opera/romance that doesn't disappoint, and I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the Waljan Chronicles. And I won't have long to wait - as book 2, Escape to Ragnis Crystal, comes out later this month.
July 12, 2018
What initially attracted me to this story is the original concept and also the idea of two opposites coming together for the benefit of their people. Princess Isolde and Prince Elan were wonderful central characters: both strong-willed, brave, and unafraid to go to great lengths for a better future. The futuristic world, created by the imaginative mind of the author, was incredibly interesting to read about and I could easily see the events unfold in front of my eyes due to the colorful, detailed descriptions. Overall, this was a highly enjoyable story that I would recommend to all fans of the genre.
August 12, 2018
One Prince and one Princess, and two different ruling plants, destined to be joined, if only they can learn to love one another before killing each other first. If you enjoy a space adventure with secrets and espionage, you’ll like this well written tale - Child of Fire, Child of Ice. The life and death of two planets one is ice and the other is fire, two races of people who hate each other to death. The chance to travel and survive on a new planet – first they must learn to work together or the two worlds will die. With plenty of action to keep you turning each page.
July 10, 2018
Ice and fire collide to make an epic fantasy story
I’m not usually a big an of high fantasy books, but I was impressed by the way the author built so many worlds and weaved together so many characters and story threads. This is an ambitious story, which for the most part the author pulls off with aplomb. I thought Isolde was a very strong and layered main character and I was compelled to read on and find out how her story ended. The only reason I’m not giving five stars is because at times I found the story a little confusing and overly complicated but all in all I would recommend this sexy sci-fi adventure.
I’m not usually a big an of high fantasy books, but I was impressed by the way the author built so many worlds and weaved together so many characters and story threads. This is an ambitious story, which for the most part the author pulls off with aplomb. I thought Isolde was a very strong and layered main character and I was compelled to read on and find out how her story ended. The only reason I’m not giving five stars is because at times I found the story a little confusing and overly complicated but all in all I would recommend this sexy sci-fi adventure.
August 27, 2018
J.P Trepagnier has gone wild with her imagination with this one. A futuristic tale that takes place in far-off planets, the protags are from two warring factions - one from the planet of ice and the other, from the planet of fire. That was the most intriguing part of the plot. Reminded me of Romeo and Juliet. The heat quotient was just right and while it is a bit too much to be called a YA, it’s can be called one.
Both want the planets to unite but they face a lot of obstacles from their own people. Fighting each hurdle and how they find new ways to make up, forms a very interesting tale.
Both want the planets to unite but they face a lot of obstacles from their own people. Fighting each hurdle and how they find new ways to make up, forms a very interesting tale.
August 6, 2018
It was a nice change of pace of the usual coming of age sci fi epics. The world both were fully realized. It was a great goodreads win.
May 11, 2018
Child of Fire, Child of Ice is a strange book. In a good way. Everything is different, everything is fresh in the least detail and inviting to read further. The book starts with a web of lies trying to bring two people together, a princess and a prince, both being the only hope for their races: Cendis and Avala. Both races having a common ancestry on Earth in some immemorial times. None of the protagonists is what it seems to be, and their, let’s say, education was twisted, but once they learn about the lies being told, they move to learn and understand each other - a gradual process that the reader will enjoy. And there are plans inside plans inside plans.
The main characters, Isolde and Elan are enjoyable, even when there is too much tantrum in Isolde, and she is not really the spoiled girl that appears in the beginning.
All in all, a lovable science fiction romance.
The main characters, Isolde and Elan are enjoyable, even when there is too much tantrum in Isolde, and she is not really the spoiled girl that appears in the beginning.
All in all, a lovable science fiction romance.
June 29, 2018
If you won this book in a goodreads giveaway, please go to your kindle dashboard and update your copy. There's been some major changes based on the reviews that have come in
April 15, 2018
I was drawn into this story from the opening and held in the grasp of the wonderful world building. The complex politics between the worlds created was awesome. I loved that it was humans who evolved on separate paths into two drastically different yet ultimately similar peoples. I also really enjoyed the rich imagery of the worlds they lived on. The bonds was a really interesting touch, both between Isolde & Elan, and them and their animals.
Isolde & Elan are brilliant characters. They had a sweet relationship that even though it started it out rocky due to others had a true respect for each other. I really felt the tension as the unrest amid the people ramped up. I'm excited to see where things go next, as there is so much more to explore in this world.
Highly recommended.
Isolde & Elan are brilliant characters. They had a sweet relationship that even though it started it out rocky due to others had a true respect for each other. I really felt the tension as the unrest amid the people ramped up. I'm excited to see where things go next, as there is so much more to explore in this world.
Highly recommended.
August 1, 2018
Be ready to dive into a whole new world. The author sets the scene very well for the first book in a series. From the planets Cendis, Avala and Ragnis-Crystal to its inhabitants and their cultures there is a wealth of background information. The characters especially the sixteen gifted children all have their unique quirks and abilities which make the story even more interesting. This book is X-men meet Divergent and is full of unexpected twists and turns.
Cendis and Avala are 2 planets with a fragile truce and a history of conflict. Both people pin their hopes of survival on the union of their respective Prince and Princess. However, this is not easy because the two protagonists have strong beliefs and personalities. They don’t trust each other and there are a whole lot of lies and politics at play.
Cendis and Avala are 2 planets with a fragile truce and a history of conflict. Both people pin their hopes of survival on the union of their respective Prince and Princess. However, this is not easy because the two protagonists have strong beliefs and personalities. They don’t trust each other and there are a whole lot of lies and politics at play.
June 28, 2018
Let me begin by saying that the premise of this book is a good one. There's nothing really new under the sun anymore in my opinion - it's just a matter of what unique spin we can put on the tried and the true. I felt that this tale was able to be different in a pleasing way, and the way that it seeks to mix the feel of sci-fi and fantasy together was successful. In that respect, I thought there was a solid story here with a lot of potential.
The trouble I had with this book appears to have already been mentioned in a number of comments so I feel as though I'm reiterating, but for the sake of a complete review I believe I ought to include it. In short, this book is in need of an editor's eye. I found it rather difficult to parse some of the text for the following reasons:
-Run-on sentences;
-A jumble of rapid-fire pronouns that make it difficult to determine which characters are being referred to;
-Lots of 'names' all at once;
-Short, choppy sentences that would flow better if combined;
-Large infodump sections that could stand to be broken up throughout the story so as not to appear pedantic; and
-Less "tell".
Note that some items on my list above seem contradictory - in some places I speak of excessively long sentences and too many pronouns, whilst in others, I talk about sentences that are too short, and too many names all at once. What I think this book needs is to strike a balance between the two in both cases. Merging of very short thoughts, setting of commas to or breaking up very long thoughts, and taking care to consider which characters of what genders are in each scene, so a mixture of names and specific pronouns can keep the reader dialed in to who is where, and saying what (this is especially important when all the characters being referred to are of the same gender, since the obvious assignment of 'he' and 'she' is lost). I think it would be of some benefit to trust the reader a bit more too, in terms of letting them form some mental images and come to some conclusions in their head. This can be a daunting task, but there's a definite balance between setting a scene for the play, and just acting it out one's self.
In short: Creative premise, good story idea...just needs stylistic/technical work.
The trouble I had with this book appears to have already been mentioned in a number of comments so I feel as though I'm reiterating, but for the sake of a complete review I believe I ought to include it. In short, this book is in need of an editor's eye. I found it rather difficult to parse some of the text for the following reasons:
-Run-on sentences;
-A jumble of rapid-fire pronouns that make it difficult to determine which characters are being referred to;
-Lots of 'names' all at once;
-Short, choppy sentences that would flow better if combined;
-Large infodump sections that could stand to be broken up throughout the story so as not to appear pedantic; and
-Less "tell".
Note that some items on my list above seem contradictory - in some places I speak of excessively long sentences and too many pronouns, whilst in others, I talk about sentences that are too short, and too many names all at once. What I think this book needs is to strike a balance between the two in both cases. Merging of very short thoughts, setting of commas to or breaking up very long thoughts, and taking care to consider which characters of what genders are in each scene, so a mixture of names and specific pronouns can keep the reader dialed in to who is where, and saying what (this is especially important when all the characters being referred to are of the same gender, since the obvious assignment of 'he' and 'she' is lost). I think it would be of some benefit to trust the reader a bit more too, in terms of letting them form some mental images and come to some conclusions in their head. This can be a daunting task, but there's a definite balance between setting a scene for the play, and just acting it out one's self.
In short: Creative premise, good story idea...just needs stylistic/technical work.
August 29, 2018
This is a novel with a lot to unpack. The first in a series set on two distant planets, Child of Fire, Child of Ice introduces to Cendis and Avala -- a fire planet and an ice planet, homes to two different civilizations who both came from Earth years ago. The fire & ice dichotomy goes even deeper than the peoples having (and losing) a specific elemental power. On Cendis, the people are ruled more by religion and art, while those on Avala are more logical and scientific. Food is different. Beliefs are different.
One thing that's the same? Secret factions that once wanted to bring peace and alliance to these two distinct worlds. And that's where this first novel begins.
Eighteen years ago, a cosmic event led to 32 women becoming miraculously and spontaneously pregnant as the kings (and their advisors) on both planets dropped dead. Sixteen on Cendis and sixteen on Avala. Each set of sixteen has been trained and kept secret, but none as much as the Avala princess, Isolde, and the Cendis prince, Elan. These two are fated to bond and begin an alliance as they bring their people to a paradise planet they name Ragnis Crystal.
The world building in this novel is very vast and unique. It was a little bit difficult to get all of the characters straight at first, but the more I delved into this world, the easier it became. The author has a way of bringing all of her characters to life. They have distinct personalities and you find yourself invested in their stories, as well as Isolde and Elan's.
Even though it's set in the future, there are elements of this story -- especially when Isolde is on Cendis -- that seems like it's gone back in time. The technology on Avala is very advanced, while the punishments on Cendis are harsh and to the point. All of the things a reader might think of as backwards is changed when Isolde and Elan take their rightful roles as the king and queen of the new planet. They were tested at every turn in this first novel, and I can only imagine what's in store for them next as they embark on the second step of their journey!
One thing that's the same? Secret factions that once wanted to bring peace and alliance to these two distinct worlds. And that's where this first novel begins.
Eighteen years ago, a cosmic event led to 32 women becoming miraculously and spontaneously pregnant as the kings (and their advisors) on both planets dropped dead. Sixteen on Cendis and sixteen on Avala. Each set of sixteen has been trained and kept secret, but none as much as the Avala princess, Isolde, and the Cendis prince, Elan. These two are fated to bond and begin an alliance as they bring their people to a paradise planet they name Ragnis Crystal.
The world building in this novel is very vast and unique. It was a little bit difficult to get all of the characters straight at first, but the more I delved into this world, the easier it became. The author has a way of bringing all of her characters to life. They have distinct personalities and you find yourself invested in their stories, as well as Isolde and Elan's.
Even though it's set in the future, there are elements of this story -- especially when Isolde is on Cendis -- that seems like it's gone back in time. The technology on Avala is very advanced, while the punishments on Cendis are harsh and to the point. All of the things a reader might think of as backwards is changed when Isolde and Elan take their rightful roles as the king and queen of the new planet. They were tested at every turn in this first novel, and I can only imagine what's in store for them next as they embark on the second step of their journey!
July 15, 2018
Child of Fire, Child of Ice has a very intriguing premise and fascinating characters set in two opposing worlds - one burning hot, and the other icy cold - that can hopefully be reunited. The story is complex and even confusing at times because each of the worlds comes with a large cast of characters, but if you like intricate world-building and complicated plots, you will be rewarded with a very satisfying read. Embedded in the plot is a beautiful love story between Elan, a gentle Cendian prince and Isolde, a fiesty Avalian princess. Their bonding process, which is designed to bring the two peoples together, was sensual in all the right ways and my favorite part of the story. I also liked their relationships with their bond animals, and the special abilities they, along with the other 16 from each planet that were miraculously born, use to share and bring about a better future. My least favorites were the convoluted family relationships, the lies and distorted truths used to manipulate situations, and the battle scenes, but the promise of unification and resolution on a new planet named Ragnis Crystal won me over in the end. I look forward to reading on and finding out what happens next.
June 28, 2018
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cendis and Avala, two very different planets. One of Fire, and one of Ice. Cendis the planet of Fire, then Avala the planet of Ice. Each a human based race, but each fled from Earth when their differences divided themselves from each other. Each blaming each other for the separation that caused the generations long war between the two planets. I
Jump ahead two hundred years. A truce has been reached between the Cendis and the Avala people's. Children have been born to the high faction mothers, when no pregnancies were present before. All while the fathers are dying without their hearts being present as well. Now a pact has been brokered between the two children of the two highest houses of the factions of both houses. But can the rumors about Elan be true? Is Isolde strong enough to hold the charade of being a slave girl to find out if the two of them are compatible for the Binding ceremony to bring the two races together for the new planet?
Cendis and Avala, two very different planets. One of Fire, and one of Ice. Cendis the planet of Fire, then Avala the planet of Ice. Each a human based race, but each fled from Earth when their differences divided themselves from each other. Each blaming each other for the separation that caused the generations long war between the two planets. I
Jump ahead two hundred years. A truce has been reached between the Cendis and the Avala people's. Children have been born to the high faction mothers, when no pregnancies were present before. All while the fathers are dying without their hearts being present as well. Now a pact has been brokered between the two children of the two highest houses of the factions of both houses. But can the rumors about Elan be true? Is Isolde strong enough to hold the charade of being a slave girl to find out if the two of them are compatible for the Binding ceremony to bring the two races together for the new planet?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2023
WOW, An awesome beginning,
for an incredible series.
It took me a while to get used to the author JB. Trepagnier writing style especially because the story starts slow and kind of hard to get, but once I’ve got used to it all and the pace got faster with much more action, it was on.
The only problem which I had with this one is straggling with its genre which came as a science fiction but the kids had fire, ice and more magical tricks in them so is it a fantasy with magic or science fiction with arrange marriages on two different planets for peace purposes ?
At last I figured that it don’t matter, the story is very well written with great imagination, conspiracies and twists.
In short an amazing beginning for an awesome series !!!
Narration by William Turbett is always spot on for all characters !
Absolutely
recommended by me !!!
Oded Ostfeld.
for an incredible series.
It took me a while to get used to the author JB. Trepagnier writing style especially because the story starts slow and kind of hard to get, but once I’ve got used to it all and the pace got faster with much more action, it was on.
The only problem which I had with this one is straggling with its genre which came as a science fiction but the kids had fire, ice and more magical tricks in them so is it a fantasy with magic or science fiction with arrange marriages on two different planets for peace purposes ?
At last I figured that it don’t matter, the story is very well written with great imagination, conspiracies and twists.
In short an amazing beginning for an awesome series !!!
Narration by William Turbett is always spot on for all characters !
Absolutely
recommended by me !!!
Oded Ostfeld.
October 25, 2018
I enjoyed this sci-fi romance.
When I started I wasn't sure I was going to because it is written very 'crisply' a bit like a police report, they went here, they did that etc, but as I relaxed into the story that all faded away into the background as the story and characters began to flow.
The writer has a brilliant mind there's no other way they could hold such a beautiful intriguing plot with multiple characters in their mind. I would get lost in this if I was trying to write it but Trepagnier weaves the story together in a lovely way. The two main characters are totally lovable and endearing.
Although this is book 1 in a series I do believe you could read it as a stand alone and be totally satisfied, but readers of series will be rooting to get the next book and find out what happens next.
All in all, a lovely futuristic adventure with lots of great detail.
When I started I wasn't sure I was going to because it is written very 'crisply' a bit like a police report, they went here, they did that etc, but as I relaxed into the story that all faded away into the background as the story and characters began to flow.
The writer has a brilliant mind there's no other way they could hold such a beautiful intriguing plot with multiple characters in their mind. I would get lost in this if I was trying to write it but Trepagnier weaves the story together in a lovely way. The two main characters are totally lovable and endearing.
Although this is book 1 in a series I do believe you could read it as a stand alone and be totally satisfied, but readers of series will be rooting to get the next book and find out what happens next.
All in all, a lovely futuristic adventure with lots of great detail.
September 6, 2018
I’m becoming a big fan of J.B. Trepagnier’s stories and this one Child of Fire, Child of Ice is a fantastic start to a new series and I dry much enjoyed reading it. Cendis is a planet of Fire and Avala is a planet of Ice, both planets went to war and the gods stripped them of their gifts and now they have a truce between them. This is a love story between Elan a Cendian Prince and Isolde a princess fro Avala, the two are fated to be together and to take their people to a new paradise called Ragnis Crystal. That’s all I’m going to give you guys but there is so much more to this story to keep you entertained and turning the pages and I can’t wait to read the next book Escape to Ragnis. A fantastic story a 5 plus ⭐️ read and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.
August 2, 2018
This isn't really my style of book, but I enjoyed parts of it. I was immediately thrown in a Romeo and Juliet frame of my mind by the first few pages. Let's face it, Shakespeare influences so many books without the authors even realizing it. I might even be guilty of it. That being said, the prose was a bit choppy and used plenty of filler words, but every writer has their unique style. Once I adjusted to this I was able to breeze through the story. The main characters are well developed as well. There is much promise here and the author went to great lengths to build a futuristic world and settings. I would recommend this book to others.
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