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Blood and Ice #1
Sapphire and Steel
Svagnar is the ferocious warrior jarl of Arkavic.
To stop the constant attacks on his country, he's formed an audacious abduct his enemy's daughter and make her his wife, hoping that tying their countries together through marriage will end the war.
But the last thing he intends is to become dangerously attracted to his stolen bride.
Aster is the captain of the princess's guard.
She is low-born, steadfast and fiercely loyal. But the princess is sent away to be wed, and on the way they are surprised by a group of barbarian warriors. To save the princess from capture, Aster claims to be her and gets taken instead.
The last thing she expects is to become a royal bride in a desperate bid to save a country.
Caught between war and peace, lies and loyalty, duty and lust, the two find themselves dangerously drawn to each other.
But in the chess game of war, the heart is always the first pawn to be sacrificed.This is a stand-alone, enemies-to-lovers, forced marriage romance set in the medieval fantasy world of Westmere and contains sexual content only suitable for adults.
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"A blend of Game of Thrones & Radiance (by Grace Draven)." Becca, Goodreads ★★★★★
"The world is is beautiful, you've got angst, you've got pining, you've got action, and the sex is hot as. I really adored this book." Emily, Amazon Review ★★★★★
"The lyrical narrative was an absolute joy to read. Was my first time reading a romance novel and if all romance novels are like this I should read more!" Grey, Goodreads ★★★★★
"With a bit of intrigue, a lot of chemistry and a bucket load of romance, this story was one I couldn't put down and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance." Jules, Amazon Review ★★★★★
"I love a good bodice-ripper and this absolutely qualifies. A traditional story line, told well, with compelling characters. I would definitely recommend this as a good, fun, sexy read." Amanda, Goodreads ★★★★★
To stop the constant attacks on his country, he's formed an audacious abduct his enemy's daughter and make her his wife, hoping that tying their countries together through marriage will end the war.
But the last thing he intends is to become dangerously attracted to his stolen bride.
Aster is the captain of the princess's guard.
She is low-born, steadfast and fiercely loyal. But the princess is sent away to be wed, and on the way they are surprised by a group of barbarian warriors. To save the princess from capture, Aster claims to be her and gets taken instead.
The last thing she expects is to become a royal bride in a desperate bid to save a country.
Caught between war and peace, lies and loyalty, duty and lust, the two find themselves dangerously drawn to each other.
But in the chess game of war, the heart is always the first pawn to be sacrificed.This is a stand-alone, enemies-to-lovers, forced marriage romance set in the medieval fantasy world of Westmere and contains sexual content only suitable for adults.
---
"A blend of Game of Thrones & Radiance (by Grace Draven)." Becca, Goodreads ★★★★★
"The world is is beautiful, you've got angst, you've got pining, you've got action, and the sex is hot as. I really adored this book." Emily, Amazon Review ★★★★★
"The lyrical narrative was an absolute joy to read. Was my first time reading a romance novel and if all romance novels are like this I should read more!" Grey, Goodreads ★★★★★
"With a bit of intrigue, a lot of chemistry and a bucket load of romance, this story was one I couldn't put down and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance." Jules, Amazon Review ★★★★★
"I love a good bodice-ripper and this absolutely qualifies. A traditional story line, told well, with compelling characters. I would definitely recommend this as a good, fun, sexy read." Amanda, Goodreads ★★★★★
199 pages, ebook
First published November 7, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
June 1, 2021
“A hellhound and a wolf, what better match?”
@/_a.book.nook_ on Instagram put me on this book and now I am forever trusting her recommendations. I don't normally love fantasy but this one is an absolute favorite of mine! This book was a blend of Game of Thrones & Radiance (by Grace Draven). This book contains forced proximity, mistaken identity, kidnapping, and marriage of convenience.
Aster is the captain of the princess's guard and is capture by Svagnar, the warrior jarl of Arkavic. Svagnar thinks Aster is Adrienna, the princess! On their journey, Aster tries to kill him or escape MULTIPLE TIMES. She is fierce, strong, and loyal. Aster really embodies the strong heroine I love to read about. Instantly, Svagnar and Aster have the wittiest banter and chemistry. HE CALLS HER HELLHOUND. IT WAS SO FLIPPING CUTE. Svagnar IS SOO GONE FOR ASTER. It was surprisingly angsty and had a ton of pining. The smut was excellent. I totally recommend this book if you're looking for a fast-paced fantasy romance.
@/_a.book.nook_ on Instagram put me on this book and now I am forever trusting her recommendations. I don't normally love fantasy but this one is an absolute favorite of mine! This book was a blend of Game of Thrones & Radiance (by Grace Draven). This book contains forced proximity, mistaken identity, kidnapping, and marriage of convenience.
Aster is the captain of the princess's guard and is capture by Svagnar, the warrior jarl of Arkavic. Svagnar thinks Aster is Adrienna, the princess! On their journey, Aster tries to kill him or escape MULTIPLE TIMES. She is fierce, strong, and loyal. Aster really embodies the strong heroine I love to read about. Instantly, Svagnar and Aster have the wittiest banter and chemistry. HE CALLS HER HELLHOUND. IT WAS SO FLIPPING CUTE. Svagnar IS SOO GONE FOR ASTER. It was surprisingly angsty and had a ton of pining. The smut was excellent. I totally recommend this book if you're looking for a fast-paced fantasy romance.
February 19, 2020
I don't usually read smutty fantasy romance, but if ever a book lived up to that moniker than this is it. It was most definitely what it said it was going to be and I found it to be a great story. It was well written and had some brilliant action scenes. For such a short book, it did a great job with building a realistic fantasy world, dabbling just enough into politics and war to make a believable storyline. I enjoyed the friendships between the characters, but thought the characters themselves were a little too similar to one another. The actual romance part was insta-love at it's finest, but I didn't mind it because there was enough conflict between Aster and Svagnar, enough getting to know each other scenes which I think worked well in the high stakes plot. All in all this was a well rounded, entertaining read.
October 16, 2022
This was fast paced, plenty of action and had an enemies to lovers romance. Would definitely recommend to get out of a reading slump! Also it’s on kindle unlimited
July 17, 2020
I absolutely adored this book and it is easily going on my favorites. This was the first romance fantasy novel I read (not counting the fantasy novels I have read with romance sub-plots in them) and I am so glad this was my introduction to the genre. This book was amazing.
When I began to read how instantly attracted to the main character that our male love interest was, I was very worried that the book was going to skip over the development of their relationship and attraction for one another and go straight to the smut. However, I was not disappointed in the slightest. The author did not skimp out on slowly developing a believable and sizzling relationship between the two. I loved reading the attraction they had for each other, both fighting that attraction, and then gradually letting themselves go and love each other. I was very happy to see that it was not insta-lovey. Svagnar was clearly physically attracted to her right off the bat but he constantly told himself it was because of the close proximity or his celibacy due to how busy he is and respected Aster's body and her boundaries despite that physical attraction. Aster was not instantly besotted by this huge, handsome man; she stood her ground until she couldn't any longer.
Froste also did not skimp out on a plot. While it is quite simple and I thought the big bad fight we were building up for in the end was solved very easily, it was well done. There was enough world-building, conflict, and context provided to make the story a believable and enjoyable fantasy novel.
I loved the two leads. They were so believable and loveable, I couldn't help but fall in love with them. When I was initially introduced to Aster I was afraid that she was going to be the in-your-face kind of "badass" main character who will go to any length to prove to the reader that she is not like "other girls", she is smart and she is manly. But thank goodness that is not who Aster was, she was fierce, compassionate, skilled, loyal, and so much more.
The steamy scenes were so fun and so well written. I get very easily off-put by those scenes in some books but I loved reading them in Sapphire and Steel. I really loved how whatever did happen between them was consensual and very respectful even when Svagnar was clearly having to work really hard to keep his urges at bay.
Overall, wonderful book. I would absolutely love to read the one about the princess.
Thank you to Voracious Readers Only for providing me a free copy of the ARC for my honest opinion in return.
~ 5 stars ~
When I began to read how instantly attracted to the main character that our male love interest was, I was very worried that the book was going to skip over the development of their relationship and attraction for one another and go straight to the smut. However, I was not disappointed in the slightest. The author did not skimp out on slowly developing a believable and sizzling relationship between the two. I loved reading the attraction they had for each other, both fighting that attraction, and then gradually letting themselves go and love each other. I was very happy to see that it was not insta-lovey. Svagnar was clearly physically attracted to her right off the bat but he constantly told himself it was because of the close proximity or his celibacy due to how busy he is and respected Aster's body and her boundaries despite that physical attraction. Aster was not instantly besotted by this huge, handsome man; she stood her ground until she couldn't any longer.
Froste also did not skimp out on a plot. While it is quite simple and I thought the big bad fight we were building up for in the end was solved very easily, it was well done. There was enough world-building, conflict, and context provided to make the story a believable and enjoyable fantasy novel.
I loved the two leads. They were so believable and loveable, I couldn't help but fall in love with them. When I was initially introduced to Aster I was afraid that she was going to be the in-your-face kind of "badass" main character who will go to any length to prove to the reader that she is not like "other girls", she is smart and she is manly. But thank goodness that is not who Aster was, she was fierce, compassionate, skilled, loyal, and so much more.
The steamy scenes were so fun and so well written. I get very easily off-put by those scenes in some books but I loved reading them in Sapphire and Steel. I really loved how whatever did happen between them was consensual and very respectful even when Svagnar was clearly having to work really hard to keep his urges at bay.
Overall, wonderful book. I would absolutely love to read the one about the princess.
Thank you to Voracious Readers Only for providing me a free copy of the ARC for my honest opinion in return.
~ 5 stars ~
February 9, 2020
Received from the author and Voracious Readers Only in exchange for a review.
Strong sweet storyline. Heroine is a solid, strong character, without being overdone. Hero is strong in response, but not so full of himself as to be annoying. Loved the ending, and how it all worked out. Secondary characters were enjoyable, and they were all well-created and easy to enjoy all of them.
Crossposted to GoodReads and Amazon.
Strong sweet storyline. Heroine is a solid, strong character, without being overdone. Hero is strong in response, but not so full of himself as to be annoying. Loved the ending, and how it all worked out. Secondary characters were enjoyable, and they were all well-created and easy to enjoy all of them.
Crossposted to GoodReads and Amazon.
December 14, 2019
Complimentary copy of this book was received through Voracious Readers Only
Great read with a story that grabbed me from the start. Sex scenes were well done and respectful. Nice to see a strong female character so delicately shown.
Great read with a story that grabbed me from the start. Sex scenes were well done and respectful. Nice to see a strong female character so delicately shown.
October 22, 2022
fajny wikingowy romans, duzo polityki
March 26, 2025
I don't know what to rate this. The MC's were fantastic. You get a ruthless warlord Jarl who will do anything for his country & a captain of the royal guard who has sacrificed everything out of loyalty. Hellhound will forever be one of my favorite pet names now. I loved the Norse mythology influences and rich setting. Action packed and tense which is a plus. But I found myself bored at times. Adding to that there were a few typos. The climax of the plot finally comes..... and everything is fine 😅. I will say there were some pretty good themes in here. The positive of this gets a bit counteracted when it's laid out verbatim multiple times. Ill keep this at a 3✨ and may change with some time for my brain to come back to this.
April 18, 2021
3.75 stars
This should not of taken me 5 days to read, but I was just so tired all week and had to get up early on Friday for dose 1 of the COVID vax
ANYWAYS!! I enjoyed this... BUT I wish it had been edited better. The formatting was a little weird (space between paragraphs) and there was a lot of spelling errors (sometimes missing words or misused words).
Also I wish there was a pronunciation guide for the characters names.
This should not of taken me 5 days to read, but I was just so tired all week and had to get up early on Friday for dose 1 of the COVID vax
ANYWAYS!! I enjoyed this... BUT I wish it had been edited better. The formatting was a little weird (space between paragraphs) and there was a lot of spelling errors (sometimes missing words or misused words).
Also I wish there was a pronunciation guide for the characters names.
February 16, 2023
Loved how the character development was mostly show and not tell— but through each other’s eyes we got to see and get to know the characters by how the other saw them. Didn’t love the really really bad typos that took me out of the story and once even used the character’s wrong name !!! Still 4 stars cause I liked the speech/dialogue and story.
October 27, 2022
DNF at 66%
Needs edited and lots of corrected grammar. Take it back to the drawing board and this could be a really good book. I kept going hoping that at some point things would mesh better and feel more genuinely compelling but got to the point where I just couldn't do it anymore.
Needs edited and lots of corrected grammar. Take it back to the drawing board and this could be a really good book. I kept going hoping that at some point things would mesh better and feel more genuinely compelling but got to the point where I just couldn't do it anymore.
May 5, 2020
I feel the downfall in most romance novels is either taking forever to begin the real connection, making the story line drag on, or speeding through the story line too quickly, which leads to underdeveloped characters. Sapphire and Steel has the correct balance. The author first introduces the main character, Aster, so readers are able to identify and connect with her fierce independence. Aster is not "blown away" by Svagnar. Instead, while their attraction for one another is prominent, their relationship takes time to develop. She builds a realistic connection and fantasy world. Loved this book and read it in one sitting!
-I received a complimentary copy from the author through Voracious Readers
-I received a complimentary copy from the author through Voracious Readers
April 23, 2020
This book was awesome! The relationship between aster and adrienna was inspiring, a sisterly bond that could not be broken. Aster is a stubborn, passionate, loyal character that you camt help fall in love with.
Cannot wait to read the second book!
Cannot wait to read the second book!
June 7, 2020
**I received a complimentary copy of this book via Voracious Readers Only**
I give this book 3.5 stars.
I'm not someone who normally reads a whole lot of smutty romance, but I was intrigued by this book's setting and premise. The writing was pretty good, minus a few typos here and there, and this ended up being a pretty easy read. For the most part, I found myself invested in the story and how it was going to end, although I attribute some of that to the fact that I'm a sucker for tension that hinges on a secret. The longer the ruse went on, the more I worried for the characters.
There are two main gripes I have with the book, however. The first has to do with the relationship between Adrienna and Aster. Throughout the book, we're constantly told how much Adrienna means to Aster and how close they are. However, we never really get to see this in action, so it turns into an instance of telling rather than showing. Adrienna makes a very brief appearance at the beginning, and her interactions with Aster are minimal before the plot kicks in and they get separated. For this reason, it's difficult to buy their bond as being genuine, and I didn't feel the investment that I should have, considering how important the author stresses this detail to be.
The second issue I have is the climax of the book. The build-up was fantastic, and I truly felt the mounting tension as the potential risks and consequences became clear the longer the ruse went on. However, once the truth comes out, there's practically zero repercussion or consequence. Everything that could have been at stake and that could have gone wrong in the wake of this revelation is swiftly shoved aside, and everything gets neatly resolved in a matter of a few pages. Everything immediately turns out fine, which then makes all that tension and stress I was feeling up until then feel incredibly pointless. The climax was frustrating and a bit disappointing in this sense because it just skipped right to the happy ending the book was inevitably going to have. Don't get me wrong, I like how the book ended, but I feel like we got there far too easily considering the conflict that was built up.
All in all, I enjoyed this read and I had a hard time putting it down, despite the flaws I mentioned. If you're looking for a fun, easy, indulgent and smutty read, then I think this book will serve that purpose quite nicely. It's nothing ground-breaking or terribly deep, but I doubt anyone is going into this book expecting those things. It was an entertaining read, and I'd be willing to give other works by this author a try.
I give this book 3.5 stars.
I'm not someone who normally reads a whole lot of smutty romance, but I was intrigued by this book's setting and premise. The writing was pretty good, minus a few typos here and there, and this ended up being a pretty easy read. For the most part, I found myself invested in the story and how it was going to end, although I attribute some of that to the fact that I'm a sucker for tension that hinges on a secret. The longer the ruse went on, the more I worried for the characters.
There are two main gripes I have with the book, however. The first has to do with the relationship between Adrienna and Aster. Throughout the book, we're constantly told how much Adrienna means to Aster and how close they are. However, we never really get to see this in action, so it turns into an instance of telling rather than showing. Adrienna makes a very brief appearance at the beginning, and her interactions with Aster are minimal before the plot kicks in and they get separated. For this reason, it's difficult to buy their bond as being genuine, and I didn't feel the investment that I should have, considering how important the author stresses this detail to be.
The second issue I have is the climax of the book. The build-up was fantastic, and I truly felt the mounting tension as the potential risks and consequences became clear the longer the ruse went on. However, once the truth comes out, there's practically zero repercussion or consequence. Everything that could have been at stake and that could have gone wrong in the wake of this revelation is swiftly shoved aside, and everything gets neatly resolved in a matter of a few pages. Everything immediately turns out fine, which then makes all that tension and stress I was feeling up until then feel incredibly pointless. The climax was frustrating and a bit disappointing in this sense because it just skipped right to the happy ending the book was inevitably going to have. Don't get me wrong, I like how the book ended, but I feel like we got there far too easily considering the conflict that was built up.
All in all, I enjoyed this read and I had a hard time putting it down, despite the flaws I mentioned. If you're looking for a fun, easy, indulgent and smutty read, then I think this book will serve that purpose quite nicely. It's nothing ground-breaking or terribly deep, but I doubt anyone is going into this book expecting those things. It was an entertaining read, and I'd be willing to give other works by this author a try.
November 30, 2019
Let me upfront and say that I received a free copy of this book; the author just asked that I provide an honest review.
This book had a slow start for me. The author sets the scene and world builds before introducing conflict between Aster (our Heroine) and Unprounceable (the Hero). Once the Hero comes onto the page, the story takes off. I won't regurgitate the plot because the author does a fine job doing that herself. Why the action happens, you will have to find out for yourself; just know that you will be entertained. The author does a decent job of maintaining tension throughout the book. I will, however, say that I was hoping for a more dramatic resolution. I won't give away what happens in the end (because those people suck) so find out for yourself how you feel about the conclusion.
I must say I really like Aster. I appreciate that she's not a snappy sue (read biatch) in order to show how "strong" she is. (Why authors think you have to be a monster in order to be cool and strong, I'll never know.) I appreciate the relationship between Aster and her sister/bestie, Adrienna. Adrienna is portrayed as the more delicate of the two girls, yet Adrienna is still strong in her own way (and even has some cool plot development in the book). Basically, I love that Aster didn't come across as "Not like other girls". Not every author can walk that tight rope, so props to the author.
The sex was also done well; there was a bit of a slow burn, but the payoff was worth it. Violet did it just perfect. So there's that.
Now, onto the reason this isn't a 5-star review. I had problems with some of the punctuation/grammar/typos that seem to plague self-published books. It's not prevalent enough that I quit reading, but definitely something I noticed. It's only right that I point this out.
That said, it's still worth the time and money to read this book. The author created an imaginative world, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series: Adrienna's story.
This book had a slow start for me. The author sets the scene and world builds before introducing conflict between Aster (our Heroine) and Unprounceable (the Hero). Once the Hero comes onto the page, the story takes off. I won't regurgitate the plot because the author does a fine job doing that herself. Why the action happens, you will have to find out for yourself; just know that you will be entertained. The author does a decent job of maintaining tension throughout the book. I will, however, say that I was hoping for a more dramatic resolution. I won't give away what happens in the end (because those people suck) so find out for yourself how you feel about the conclusion.
I must say I really like Aster. I appreciate that she's not a snappy sue (read biatch) in order to show how "strong" she is. (Why authors think you have to be a monster in order to be cool and strong, I'll never know.) I appreciate the relationship between Aster and her sister/bestie, Adrienna. Adrienna is portrayed as the more delicate of the two girls, yet Adrienna is still strong in her own way (and even has some cool plot development in the book). Basically, I love that Aster didn't come across as "Not like other girls". Not every author can walk that tight rope, so props to the author.
The sex was also done well; there was a bit of a slow burn, but the payoff was worth it. Violet did it just perfect. So there's that.
Now, onto the reason this isn't a 5-star review. I had problems with some of the punctuation/grammar/typos that seem to plague self-published books. It's not prevalent enough that I quit reading, but definitely something I noticed. It's only right that I point this out.
That said, it's still worth the time and money to read this book. The author created an imaginative world, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series: Adrienna's story.
April 10, 2020
I received Sapphire and Steel from Voracious Readers Only for an honest review.
So I really enjoyed this novel - actually a lot more than I thought I would when I started. I've read my share of Romance and / or steamy fiction and it's usually fun to pass the time, but with Sapphire and Steel, I couldn't stop until I'd finished. I loved that Aster is such a strong female character, but doesn't come off as a prudish cow, and that Svagnar is just as stubborn as she is, but doesn't come off as an ass. The dynamic between the two of them and with secondary characters were well-written and it was easy to fall into the world Froste created. Plot was well-thought out and I enjoyed the unexpected twists and turns she included. It's not too long of a book, but definitely a page-turner. Very much recommended and looking forward to what Froste will write next!
So I really enjoyed this novel - actually a lot more than I thought I would when I started. I've read my share of Romance and / or steamy fiction and it's usually fun to pass the time, but with Sapphire and Steel, I couldn't stop until I'd finished. I loved that Aster is such a strong female character, but doesn't come off as a prudish cow, and that Svagnar is just as stubborn as she is, but doesn't come off as an ass. The dynamic between the two of them and with secondary characters were well-written and it was easy to fall into the world Froste created. Plot was well-thought out and I enjoyed the unexpected twists and turns she included. It's not too long of a book, but definitely a page-turner. Very much recommended and looking forward to what Froste will write next!
December 21, 2019
I loved this book. It was given to me as a free sample through Voracious Readers Only in exchange that I reviewed it.
It took a little bit of time to get to the action and I felt as though the trials and tribulations which should have been the main focus were kind of pushed to the end and after it was resolved it gave a sense of "that's it? That's what they were scared of?" But all in all I still really liked the book and would definitely recommend. Aster is definitely a little spitfire and I love how she never once strayed from her determined nature. Also loving how Adrienna becomes a boss at the end when I would've thought her character to be meek and mild.
A pretty good book overall
It took a little bit of time to get to the action and I felt as though the trials and tribulations which should have been the main focus were kind of pushed to the end and after it was resolved it gave a sense of "that's it? That's what they were scared of?" But all in all I still really liked the book and would definitely recommend. Aster is definitely a little spitfire and I love how she never once strayed from her determined nature. Also loving how Adrienna becomes a boss at the end when I would've thought her character to be meek and mild.
A pretty good book overall
March 13, 2020
Alright guys! This book was amazing! Complements of Veracious Readers Only I received this book and this one did not disappoint! I couldn’t put it down from start to finish, late nights, commutes to work, constantly reading.
I loved these characters and the story. I wished for a little more details in some parts (no not the hot sexy times those were great on there own) but not nearly enough to make me like this book any less.
Props to the author and if your thinking about reading this but not sure? Do it. You won’t regret it!
I loved these characters and the story. I wished for a little more details in some parts (no not the hot sexy times those were great on there own) but not nearly enough to make me like this book any less.
Props to the author and if your thinking about reading this but not sure? Do it. You won’t regret it!
November 29, 2019
I received a copy of this book from voracious readers and I loved it. The characters were complex and interesting, I especially loved Aster because of her strength, independence and honesty. I loved the way the relationships and characters developed throughout the course of the book. The plot was well paced and interesting from the start to the end. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romances with amazing description, characters and plots.
November 26, 2019
I enjoyed this book. The world building in this is excellent. I feel like it transported me into this world.
It's got Vikings, princesses and different kingdoms. It kept me hooked all the way through.
Highly recommended
It's got Vikings, princesses and different kingdoms. It kept me hooked all the way through.
Highly recommended
February 4, 2020
I really liked this story it was a great quick read and I enjoyed the whole thing. I loved the strong female character, I really liked her point of view. I wish we couldve learned a little more about her though. Overall I think this was great book and cant wait to read the next one!
February 5, 2020
Excellent book! Loved the story! I received a complimentary copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only.
September 2, 2023
#ENEMIESTOLOVERS #VIKINGVIBES #KICKASSHEROINE
STARTED OFF GOOD, AND THEN I LOST INTEREST WHEN MY EXPECTATIONS WEREN'T MET. What kind of expectations? Well, firstly, you know I love my smut, but CHEMISTRY and SEXUAL TENSION is vital for ME (again, for ME) to enjoy a story fully. The plot, world building and character development always comes second. And JUST WILD MONKEY SEX doesn't always mean a story would be good. (though not the case here)
ASTER (this name was too plain for a woman who was so much more....was it meant for irony because she was a bastard child?) was a loyal Captain's Guard to her Princess. Honestly, I kinda expected the so called twist to her identity, and I can imagine YOU imagining what it would be. Anyways, when they were attacked in the night whilst bringing her Princess to be wedded off, Aster assumed the identity of her sovereign's daughter, and was carted off by the enemy. I expected A LOT from this, as in, the sensuality, chemistry and yes, I loved how Aster fought Svagnar. GOSH, and I think their hand-to-hand combat got my girl parts going more than their chemistry did.
You know that moment where your favourite characters finally have skinship even by accident?!
It was a little...flat. Or maybe I'm too used to erotica, that I'm dead to vanilla romance? 😮💨😮💨 Most of what made me held back from enjoying this fully was how RIGID and OFFISH Aster was. Her only passion may have laid in training. Aster reminded me of a damaged winded coil that couldn't ever unwind. I doubt she would have understood the meaning of 'C'est La Vie'.
SVAGNAR was okay... I mean he wasn't a ruthless warlord at all, and I guess I anticipated some rough treatment and brutish behaviour, but nope, we just HAD TO HAVE A GENTLEMANLY 'viking' ruler. I guess the cat's out of the bag, I'm a closet book masochist. He may have abducted Aster and planned to marry her believing she was the princess, but he never mistreated her, in fact when she ran away - the highlight of their romance - he hunted her down and nursed her back to health. THOSE TYPE OF SITUATIONS WERE THE BEST FOR INTIMATE BONDING (not sex) but I think the author failed to take advantage of that in the best possible way.
Otherwise, Svagnar was a just ruler who only wanted to save his people and stop the war. I wouldn't call him honorable because he stole the princess haha.
OVERALL Violet Froste is a very new author to me - one who has only written a handful of books. I'd love to read more from her, and look forward to getting my hands on Song of Silks and Scars. This wasn't the ideal romance I PREFER, but nonetheless, if you're NOT PICKY LIKE ME, then this actually made for an enjoyable read.
STARTED OFF GOOD, AND THEN I LOST INTEREST WHEN MY EXPECTATIONS WEREN'T MET. What kind of expectations? Well, firstly, you know I love my smut, but CHEMISTRY and SEXUAL TENSION is vital for ME (again, for ME) to enjoy a story fully. The plot, world building and character development always comes second. And JUST WILD MONKEY SEX doesn't always mean a story would be good. (though not the case here)
ASTER (this name was too plain for a woman who was so much more....was it meant for irony because she was a bastard child?) was a loyal Captain's Guard to her Princess. Honestly, I kinda expected the so called twist to her identity, and I can imagine YOU imagining what it would be. Anyways, when they were attacked in the night whilst bringing her Princess to be wedded off, Aster assumed the identity of her sovereign's daughter, and was carted off by the enemy. I expected A LOT from this, as in, the sensuality, chemistry and yes, I loved how Aster fought Svagnar. GOSH, and I think their hand-to-hand combat got my girl parts going more than their chemistry did.
You know that moment where your favourite characters finally have skinship even by accident?!
It was a little...flat. Or maybe I'm too used to erotica, that I'm dead to vanilla romance? 😮💨😮💨 Most of what made me held back from enjoying this fully was how RIGID and OFFISH Aster was. Her only passion may have laid in training. Aster reminded me of a damaged winded coil that couldn't ever unwind. I doubt she would have understood the meaning of 'C'est La Vie'.
SVAGNAR was okay... I mean he wasn't a ruthless warlord at all, and I guess I anticipated some rough treatment and brutish behaviour, but nope, we just HAD TO HAVE A GENTLEMANLY 'viking' ruler. I guess the cat's out of the bag, I'm a closet book masochist. He may have abducted Aster and planned to marry her believing she was the princess, but he never mistreated her, in fact when she ran away - the highlight of their romance - he hunted her down and nursed her back to health. THOSE TYPE OF SITUATIONS WERE THE BEST FOR INTIMATE BONDING (not sex) but I think the author failed to take advantage of that in the best possible way.
Otherwise, Svagnar was a just ruler who only wanted to save his people and stop the war. I wouldn't call him honorable because he stole the princess haha.
OVERALL Violet Froste is a very new author to me - one who has only written a handful of books. I'd love to read more from her, and look forward to getting my hands on Song of Silks and Scars. This wasn't the ideal romance I PREFER, but nonetheless, if you're NOT PICKY LIKE ME, then this actually made for an enjoyable read.
November 23, 2023
3.5 stars
Aster was the captain of the Princessguard. She was tasked to escort Princess Adrienna to Karscha to be wedded. However, their small discreet team was ambushed by Arkiviki soldiers. Aster posed as Adrienna and was abducted by Svagnar to be wedded. Svagnar sought peace between Veritier and his country because the Veritian king kept attacking Arkavik. Once Aster learned about Svagnar's true intentions, she was ridden with guilt and wanted to support Svagnar's wish.
When Aster ran away to switch places with Adrienna, she learned that Adrienna managed to marry the Karschan king. Adrienna captured the heart of the king and got him to do as she said lol. She swore that she would defend Arkavik out of her deep gratitude toward Aster and got her father to back off. Aster finally told Svagnar the truth and they rejoiced.
I think the worldbuilding was done quite well, though there were instances of phrase usage that didn't fit the world too well. The writing was also quite good but I found the connection between Aster and Svagnar to be lacking. Svagnar was instantly hard for Aster and that's fine but I couldn't believe their love because he himself admitted that he knew nothing about her other than her non-princess-like character. Aster and Svagnar's guilt regarding their own problems was conveyed well but the lack of chemistry and interaction between the two were disappointing.
Aster seemed to be in love with Adrienna more than she was with Svagnar as there were very few thoughts dedicated to Svagnar. Then Svagnar's forced nickname for Aster being "hellhound" was ill-fitting and used too much, he didn't know her actions were driven by her loyalty to Adrienne so the nickname just appeared out of nowhere. Even if he thought of her running away as loyalty to her country, I'd think of it more of her having strong survival skills. But as individual characters, Svagnar and Aster were okay.
I guess they loved each other because of their innate traits but then if this is so, after the whole jig was up, Svagnar could just love a shieldmaiden and Aster could just love that one knight Byram, because those people possessed the traits they liked in each other. Which is why connection and chemistry are so important.
Overall, it's a nice light read if you need some fantasy.
Aster was the captain of the Princessguard. She was tasked to escort Princess Adrienna to Karscha to be wedded. However, their small discreet team was ambushed by Arkiviki soldiers. Aster posed as Adrienna and was abducted by Svagnar to be wedded. Svagnar sought peace between Veritier and his country because the Veritian king kept attacking Arkavik. Once Aster learned about Svagnar's true intentions, she was ridden with guilt and wanted to support Svagnar's wish.
When Aster ran away to switch places with Adrienna, she learned that Adrienna managed to marry the Karschan king. Adrienna captured the heart of the king and got him to do as she said lol. She swore that she would defend Arkavik out of her deep gratitude toward Aster and got her father to back off. Aster finally told Svagnar the truth and they rejoiced.
I think the worldbuilding was done quite well, though there were instances of phrase usage that didn't fit the world too well. The writing was also quite good but I found the connection between Aster and Svagnar to be lacking. Svagnar was instantly hard for Aster and that's fine but I couldn't believe their love because he himself admitted that he knew nothing about her other than her non-princess-like character. Aster and Svagnar's guilt regarding their own problems was conveyed well but the lack of chemistry and interaction between the two were disappointing.
Aster seemed to be in love with Adrienna more than she was with Svagnar as there were very few thoughts dedicated to Svagnar. Then Svagnar's forced nickname for Aster being "hellhound" was ill-fitting and used too much, he didn't know her actions were driven by her loyalty to Adrienne so the nickname just appeared out of nowhere. Even if he thought of her running away as loyalty to her country, I'd think of it more of her having strong survival skills. But as individual characters, Svagnar and Aster were okay.
I guess they loved each other because of their innate traits but then if this is so, after the whole jig was up, Svagnar could just love a shieldmaiden and Aster could just love that one knight Byram, because those people possessed the traits they liked in each other. Which is why connection and chemistry are so important.
Overall, it's a nice light read if you need some fantasy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2020
Sapphire and Steel is one of those books that you just devour in one sitting.
It follows the story of Aster, an intensely devoted soldier, as she escorts her princess to be married in another country as a political pawn. They are ambushed on the way and Aster, pretending to be the princess, is kidnapped by Svagnar and his men. Svagnar, Jarl (ruler) of a nearby country under attack by Aster's own, wants to marry the princess to protect his people from war. Believing Aster to be the princess, Svagnar is surprised to find himself falling in love with his kidnapped bride-to-be. Aster, conscious of her deceit, struggles as she falls for him and simultaneously ruins his plans.
Honestly, I really enjoyed this book. It was short (enough to read in a day) but still had good world-building, complex relationships and character development. I loved Svagnar and Aster together, and anxiously waited for the truth to be revealed throughout the entire book. Aster is a strong heroine and I love, love, love that she made a number of legitimate attempts at escape. She ain't no damsel in distress! She managed to run away from a veritable war lord for over three days (albeit nearly killing herself in the process) and the whole time I was cheering her on. Svagnar was incredibly likeable too - a bit of a hunk and a kind, generous, warm ruler who is devoted to Aster. Even their respective bands of merry men were cheeky and memorable.
Be warned - there is smut! But who doesn't love a little bit of spice? It only added to the romance and wasn't so consuming that it detracted from the story itself.
If I were to critique Sapphire and Steel, it would only be to wish that it was longer and involved even more events, complications, relationships and further character development. Whilst it was a wonderful book, there is only so much to be achieved in a few hundred pages. A few editing errors detract from reading once or twice, but nothing truly distracting.
Overall, a great read. I'll be looking out for more from Violet Froste!
Please note that I was kindly provided with a free copy of Sapphire and Steel in exchange for a review. All of the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
It follows the story of Aster, an intensely devoted soldier, as she escorts her princess to be married in another country as a political pawn. They are ambushed on the way and Aster, pretending to be the princess, is kidnapped by Svagnar and his men. Svagnar, Jarl (ruler) of a nearby country under attack by Aster's own, wants to marry the princess to protect his people from war. Believing Aster to be the princess, Svagnar is surprised to find himself falling in love with his kidnapped bride-to-be. Aster, conscious of her deceit, struggles as she falls for him and simultaneously ruins his plans.
Honestly, I really enjoyed this book. It was short (enough to read in a day) but still had good world-building, complex relationships and character development. I loved Svagnar and Aster together, and anxiously waited for the truth to be revealed throughout the entire book. Aster is a strong heroine and I love, love, love that she made a number of legitimate attempts at escape. She ain't no damsel in distress! She managed to run away from a veritable war lord for over three days (albeit nearly killing herself in the process) and the whole time I was cheering her on. Svagnar was incredibly likeable too - a bit of a hunk and a kind, generous, warm ruler who is devoted to Aster. Even their respective bands of merry men were cheeky and memorable.
Be warned - there is smut! But who doesn't love a little bit of spice? It only added to the romance and wasn't so consuming that it detracted from the story itself.
If I were to critique Sapphire and Steel, it would only be to wish that it was longer and involved even more events, complications, relationships and further character development. Whilst it was a wonderful book, there is only so much to be achieved in a few hundred pages. A few editing errors detract from reading once or twice, but nothing truly distracting.
Overall, a great read. I'll be looking out for more from Violet Froste!
Please note that I was kindly provided with a free copy of Sapphire and Steel in exchange for a review. All of the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
July 15, 2024
3 stars
FMC is the princess’ personal guard. Whilst they are traveling to meet the princess’ intended/arranged husband, the FMC is kidnapped by MMC.
The MMC believes the FMC is the princess and is determined to marry her to stop the king from a continuous war, as the king is set on reaping their land and power
FMC is lying and pretending to be the princess as she was worried that the MMC would try to harm or kill the princess. Once she learns that he intends to marry, she becomes wracked with guilt as she realises his intention is to stop the war.
Eventually one the previous knights from her hometown comes along to the ball (as a spy) as he too wants to stop the war. When she sees him, she goes to him to tell her what happened. He then devises a plan to get the princess and bring her to MMC’s land so that the MMC can marry the right person to stop the war
All the while, the MMC has no idea of the mistaken identity. Eventually they do get married and one night after they sleep together, the FMC knocks him out cold and runs off to meet the knight to do the trade off
However, when she meets them, the princess is married (to the intended groom). They devise a plan where the princess will demand the King recognises the FMC as her sister/his daughter so that he doesn’t go to war with MMC. The King eventually comes heeds the princess’ warning
MMC confesses his love and states that he doesn’t care that she isn’t the princess, as he wants to stay married to her.
FMC is the princess’ personal guard. Whilst they are traveling to meet the princess’ intended/arranged husband, the FMC is kidnapped by MMC.
The MMC believes the FMC is the princess and is determined to marry her to stop the king from a continuous war, as the king is set on reaping their land and power
FMC is lying and pretending to be the princess as she was worried that the MMC would try to harm or kill the princess. Once she learns that he intends to marry, she becomes wracked with guilt as she realises his intention is to stop the war.
Eventually one the previous knights from her hometown comes along to the ball (as a spy) as he too wants to stop the war. When she sees him, she goes to him to tell her what happened. He then devises a plan to get the princess and bring her to MMC’s land so that the MMC can marry the right person to stop the war
All the while, the MMC has no idea of the mistaken identity. Eventually they do get married and one night after they sleep together, the FMC knocks him out cold and runs off to meet the knight to do the trade off
However, when she meets them, the princess is married (to the intended groom). They devise a plan where the princess will demand the King recognises the FMC as her sister/his daughter so that he doesn’t go to war with MMC. The King eventually comes heeds the princess’ warning
MMC confesses his love and states that he doesn’t care that she isn’t the princess, as he wants to stay married to her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2020
I was sold on this book when I read a reference to the TV show Vikings in the blurb. I love that historical-fantasy-sexy-warrior type stuff, so I put my name down for a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only. It didn't disappoint. While the story may not break any new ground, with the Jarl of Arkavik (Svagner) kidnapping the "princess" of his neighbouring, enemy country to be his bride, the scene is set for potential romance against the odds. It's not a spoiler to say that he kidnaps the wrong girl - the feisty Aster, low-born captain of the princess-guard who would do anything to protect Princess Adrienna, including pretend to be her. The book is really well-written with characters who leap off the page, and who I grew to enjoy the company of - the narrative arc of the main players was clear and certainly not static. The narrative moves along quickly and it was difficult to put down once I started reading. Add a few spicy (excellently written!) sex scenes to the mix, and Froste is onto a winner. I look forward to reading more in the Blood and Ice series.
May 27, 2020
I fairly enjoyed this one! Thank you to the author who sent me the book for reviewing purposes.
I absolutely loved the characters in the book. Aster, captain of the princess’s guard, was strong-headed & definitely not a damsel in distress. Svagnar was the one who surprised me the most. I was ready to face a vicious leader who belittles his wife but he was actually very sweet & understanding.
I wish we got to hear more about the conflict between the lands & if the resolution wasn’t over so quickly.
Summary: Aster is the captain of the princess’s guard. She’s travelling with the real princess, Adrianna, when Svagnar (leader/warrior of Arkavic that is in constant war with Aster’s land) kidnaps Aster thinking she’s the princess. He takes her back to his land where they both fall in love. Aster knows her secret is about to come undone so she sneaks out & meets Adrianna & begs her to help Arkavic.
I absolutely loved the characters in the book. Aster, captain of the princess’s guard, was strong-headed & definitely not a damsel in distress. Svagnar was the one who surprised me the most. I was ready to face a vicious leader who belittles his wife but he was actually very sweet & understanding.
I wish we got to hear more about the conflict between the lands & if the resolution wasn’t over so quickly.
Summary: Aster is the captain of the princess’s guard. She’s travelling with the real princess, Adrianna, when Svagnar (leader/warrior of Arkavic that is in constant war with Aster’s land) kidnaps Aster thinking she’s the princess. He takes her back to his land where they both fall in love. Aster knows her secret is about to come undone so she sneaks out & meets Adrianna & begs her to help Arkavic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2020
Accepted for review:
4.5*.
Well this was GREAT! Genuinely great! A kick-ass leading lady who didn't ever feel try-hard, and a gentle warlord who never compromised what he HAD to do with an out of place sense of 'mercy' - he fought and killed when his and others' lives were on the line. The couple are well matched, and it's not an enemies-to-lovers in the standard romance sense, it's that they are on opposite sides of a war and start out disliking and mistrusting each other for obvious reasons, so it avoids most of the star-crossed lovers cliché too.
Well enough written - a few typos and moments where you could tell they intended to say something else and then changed course without editing the preceding part of the sentence here and there - with a gorgeous (what I can only presume is an) Icelandic inspired setting, great characters, and a plot that moved quickly without feeling rushed but also never dragged.
Immediately adding the companion story to my TBR!
4.5*.
Well this was GREAT! Genuinely great! A kick-ass leading lady who didn't ever feel try-hard, and a gentle warlord who never compromised what he HAD to do with an out of place sense of 'mercy' - he fought and killed when his and others' lives were on the line. The couple are well matched, and it's not an enemies-to-lovers in the standard romance sense, it's that they are on opposite sides of a war and start out disliking and mistrusting each other for obvious reasons, so it avoids most of the star-crossed lovers cliché too.
Well enough written - a few typos and moments where you could tell they intended to say something else and then changed course without editing the preceding part of the sentence here and there - with a gorgeous (what I can only presume is an) Icelandic inspired setting, great characters, and a plot that moved quickly without feeling rushed but also never dragged.
Immediately adding the companion story to my TBR!
April 2, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
I think the author did a really great job with world building in this book considering that it was only 200 pages and a standalone. The war and the reasons behind it were well fleshed out without any info dumping, and the characters as well as the relationships between them were likable and believable. The romance was sweet and surprisingly not to “instalove” which is impressive for such a short book.
My only negative here really is the storyline was a little too predictable. I read a lot of fantasy romance, and I know in a lot of ways the stories are gonna go the same way, but I feel like the story didn’t have a single plot twist. Anything that could’ve been a plot twist (like her being the King’s bastard) was explained immediately and that took the fun out of guessing what’s gonna happen next. With nothing really standing out I don’t think I’ll remember much about this book in the future.
🌶️🌶️
I think the author did a really great job with world building in this book considering that it was only 200 pages and a standalone. The war and the reasons behind it were well fleshed out without any info dumping, and the characters as well as the relationships between them were likable and believable. The romance was sweet and surprisingly not to “instalove” which is impressive for such a short book.
My only negative here really is the storyline was a little too predictable. I read a lot of fantasy romance, and I know in a lot of ways the stories are gonna go the same way, but I feel like the story didn’t have a single plot twist. Anything that could’ve been a plot twist (like her being the King’s bastard) was explained immediately and that took the fun out of guessing what’s gonna happen next. With nothing really standing out I don’t think I’ll remember much about this book in the future.
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