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Fae Elementals #2
A Sword of Ice
The Empire of Illyk was never safe…
…especially not for Iona Wylde.
Living in the corrupt city of Porir, working for meager earnings at the run-down zoo, and paying a monthly tithe to the humans? It was supposed to keep the reality of what she was hidden. A Fae. An Elemental.
The last of her kind.
But the day the emperor’s soldiers invade her home is the day her careful life falls apart.
Prepared to flee to safety, Iona never expects to encounter the Resistance, and the fire dancer in their midst.
To preserve the Fae race and stop the emperor from destroying them completely, they’ll need Iona. And to survive, she’ll need them too.
On their search for the truth, they’re lead across Illyk and to The West Isles, the lands of mercenaries and pirates. There, secrets of the empire will begin to unravel. Bonds will be formed. Betrayals will tear the Resistance apart, making Iona question everything she ever knew.
And it just might spark a war for freedom that will change her fate forever.
…especially not for Iona Wylde.
Living in the corrupt city of Porir, working for meager earnings at the run-down zoo, and paying a monthly tithe to the humans? It was supposed to keep the reality of what she was hidden. A Fae. An Elemental.
The last of her kind.
But the day the emperor’s soldiers invade her home is the day her careful life falls apart.
Prepared to flee to safety, Iona never expects to encounter the Resistance, and the fire dancer in their midst.
To preserve the Fae race and stop the emperor from destroying them completely, they’ll need Iona. And to survive, she’ll need them too.
On their search for the truth, they’re lead across Illyk and to The West Isles, the lands of mercenaries and pirates. There, secrets of the empire will begin to unravel. Bonds will be formed. Betrayals will tear the Resistance apart, making Iona question everything she ever knew.
And it just might spark a war for freedom that will change her fate forever.
507 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2021
20 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Aleera Anaya Ceres
46 books439 followersAleera Anaya Ceres is the International Bestselling author of several series including the Origins of the Six series and the Daughter of Triton series. Like most introverts, Aleera prefers to curl up with a good book, listen to music, paint, read tarot cards, and snack on the tears and heartbreak of her readers.
A proud Mexican-American from the state of Kansas, Aleera currently resides in Tlaxcala, Mexico with her husband and children.
A proud Mexican-American from the state of Kansas, Aleera currently resides in Tlaxcala, Mexico with her husband and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 21, 2021
What started out as a smash new fantasy series for me kinda slowed down in the second book (this one I’m writing a review for) of the series.
We are introduced to more characters and the world building continues to be divine. What I struggled with was the predictable plot. It was easy to see what was coming and it kinda slowed down the excitement for me.
I also struggled with all the hate Shula kept receiving from the group. I hope she grows a backbone and drops her loser love interest (IMO). I’m a sucker for enemies to lovers trope, but in this case I want to scream at Shula and tell her that she should love herself first. Come on Shula, move on and save the world.
I will definitely read the next book in the series because I want to see clay’s story play out but I pray that we will get a great betrayal or a mind blowing twist to hold us over for book four.
We are introduced to more characters and the world building continues to be divine. What I struggled with was the predictable plot. It was easy to see what was coming and it kinda slowed down the excitement for me.
I also struggled with all the hate Shula kept receiving from the group. I hope she grows a backbone and drops her loser love interest (IMO). I’m a sucker for enemies to lovers trope, but in this case I want to scream at Shula and tell her that she should love herself first. Come on Shula, move on and save the world.
I will definitely read the next book in the series because I want to see clay’s story play out but I pray that we will get a great betrayal or a mind blowing twist to hold us over for book four.
March 2, 2021
I was so thrilled to receive an Arc of this book as I throughly enjoyed book 1. In this book we meet Iona who is the Ice Fae in our gang. I adored Iona’s character she was such a strong and fierce character compared to Shula who was just a bit more timid and unsure. However Iona is older and experienced with being Fae. When she met her Mate I loved how there was no hesitation because they both felt the bond and they didn’t try to fight it. When asked to join the team she agrees with no hesitation.
However we do find out she has her own motivations for this. It’s interesting to have the Resistance working with someone like Iona. They needed someone with her personality to set them straight (which she did especially you Valerio). Iona provides essential information to the Resistance that will eventually help with their war against the Humans.
Also I had the biggest soft spot for Uric in this book...you’ll see why when you read it because my heart broke 400 times. Valerio had a lot of character development in this book too which I’m so glad we got to see he was starting to annoy me.
Overall this was a lovely, fast paced and enjoyable read. I am really looking forward to the next book especially after the small sneak peek we got at the end of this book!
However we do find out she has her own motivations for this. It’s interesting to have the Resistance working with someone like Iona. They needed someone with her personality to set them straight (which she did especially you Valerio). Iona provides essential information to the Resistance that will eventually help with their war against the Humans.
Also I had the biggest soft spot for Uric in this book...you’ll see why when you read it because my heart broke 400 times. Valerio had a lot of character development in this book too which I’m so glad we got to see he was starting to annoy me.
Overall this was a lovely, fast paced and enjoyable read. I am really looking forward to the next book especially after the small sneak peek we got at the end of this book!
January 7, 2022
Darn it that was really good. I got high expectations for this because the first book in the series was *chef's kiss* AMAZING. Good thing those high expectations were met!!!!
I personally love the multiple POV but still focusing on Iona (the main MAIN character for this installment). Ngl, i was more stressed in this books than the first one (in a good way)
I personally love the multiple POV but still focusing on Iona (the main MAIN character for this installment). Ngl, i was more stressed in this books than the first one (in a good way)
January 7, 2022
What do I have to do to convince every goodreads friend that I have that loves fantasy to start this series?
BECAUSE guys, i cannot explain how good this series is
BECAUSE guys, i cannot explain how good this series is
February 2, 2021
It was my absolute pleasure to read an ARC of this story. I loved the first book in the Elemental Fae series: A Dance With Fire. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it’s sequel! It didn’t disappoint.
A Sword of Ice introduces us to Iona, the ice elemental fae our beloved characters went searching for at the end of A Dance With Fire. Where Shula was more timid and struggled to fit in with the Resistance fae, Iona is her opposite. Iona is headstrong and 10x more confident in her abilities and ideologies. So when Iona meets Shulah and the rest of the gang she barely hesitates when she agrees to help their cause. Though the ice fae also holds secrets and motives of her own.
However, as the story goes on, Iona learns to work as part of a team again after fending for herself for a little over a century. And our Resistance fighters must learn to work with someone as challenging as Iona. And thanks to Iona, the small resistance group learns of new startling information that could possibly aid the fae in the impending war against humans.
I won’t go into too much detail about Iona’s mate for those who wish to keep it a surprise. But Iona’s relationship with her newly-found mate provides a welcoming balance in regards to Shula and Ryker’s rocky relationship. Luckily this story does set Shula and Ryker down a long path of healing as they learn to face their demons.
This book is a rollercoaster of feels. I laughed, I cried, I held my breath and screamed at the words onscreen. All of the characters face some rather cataclysmic events which in turn help shape them into the leaders they’re meant to be.
I loved this story so much. Can’t wait for book 3!!
A Sword of Ice introduces us to Iona, the ice elemental fae our beloved characters went searching for at the end of A Dance With Fire. Where Shula was more timid and struggled to fit in with the Resistance fae, Iona is her opposite. Iona is headstrong and 10x more confident in her abilities and ideologies. So when Iona meets Shulah and the rest of the gang she barely hesitates when she agrees to help their cause. Though the ice fae also holds secrets and motives of her own.
However, as the story goes on, Iona learns to work as part of a team again after fending for herself for a little over a century. And our Resistance fighters must learn to work with someone as challenging as Iona. And thanks to Iona, the small resistance group learns of new startling information that could possibly aid the fae in the impending war against humans.
I won’t go into too much detail about Iona’s mate for those who wish to keep it a surprise. But Iona’s relationship with her newly-found mate provides a welcoming balance in regards to Shula and Ryker’s rocky relationship. Luckily this story does set Shula and Ryker down a long path of healing as they learn to face their demons.
This book is a rollercoaster of feels. I laughed, I cried, I held my breath and screamed at the words onscreen. All of the characters face some rather cataclysmic events which in turn help shape them into the leaders they’re meant to be.
I loved this story so much. Can’t wait for book 3!!
February 25, 2021
Aleera has done it again. She has built a stunning world that has such vivid details, you feel as if you're right in the middle of everything unfolding. Her characters have so much depth to them, you'll fall instantly in love with their stories.
In A Sword of Ice we meet Iona, an Ice Elemental who has been around for a while. Iona is a headstrong, fierce and independent woman. She makes the perfect female protagonist in this story. While Shula was more apprehensive and didn't use her powers growing up, Iona has mastered her Ice powers and shows it proudly.
The overall plot of the book was perfectly paced and captivated your attention from beginning to end. Iona is found by the Resistance and falls into step with them easily. She meets her mate, and they are everything each other needed. Throughout the book there are obstacles that the Resistance must face. Some of the obstacles make you tense with anticipation! I enjoyed seeing not only Iona's character flourish, but the other Fae we met in the first book as well. The character arcs continue onto book three.
I can't wait for the next book to come out. I'm excited to see what happens next, and I can't wait to meet the next Elemental!
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
In A Sword of Ice we meet Iona, an Ice Elemental who has been around for a while. Iona is a headstrong, fierce and independent woman. She makes the perfect female protagonist in this story. While Shula was more apprehensive and didn't use her powers growing up, Iona has mastered her Ice powers and shows it proudly.
The overall plot of the book was perfectly paced and captivated your attention from beginning to end. Iona is found by the Resistance and falls into step with them easily. She meets her mate, and they are everything each other needed. Throughout the book there are obstacles that the Resistance must face. Some of the obstacles make you tense with anticipation! I enjoyed seeing not only Iona's character flourish, but the other Fae we met in the first book as well. The character arcs continue onto book three.
I can't wait for the next book to come out. I'm excited to see what happens next, and I can't wait to meet the next Elemental!
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2021
Wow. I jumped straight into this second book after finishing the first and let me just say that I am going to be extremely sad once I have finished book 3 and must wait for the 4th installment.
A Sword of Ice follows a brand new Elemental. I didn't think that my heart had enough room to love another badass FMC. Iona is everything that Shula from book 1 is not. Iona is strong and confident, she has lived a long life and with that she has seen hardships but, despite those hardships Iona is unwavering in who she is and what she believes. That doesn't mean that Iona doesn't come with her own little twists and turns or harbor secrets. However, unlike Shula, Iona is more willing to join the gang and find her place again.
Ceres does an amazing job in creating a new FMC that doesn't feel like a copy of the first in the series. Both Shula and Iona or different and amazing in their own rights and I absolutely adore them both.
Though this book follows a new main character, it does not take away anything from the supporting cast. Shula still has a mighty presence along with Ryker. I wanted to scream at both these two idiots. ASOI sets Shula and Ryker up for a long road of acceptance with one another and it is so good that is borderlines torture for the reader. We also find out some new tid bits on some of the crew that I am living for and I do not want to spoil for readers.
I absolutely adore this series so much. I have started book three and I can already tell it has the makings of being my favorite so far.
A Sword of Ice follows a brand new Elemental. I didn't think that my heart had enough room to love another badass FMC. Iona is everything that Shula from book 1 is not. Iona is strong and confident, she has lived a long life and with that she has seen hardships but, despite those hardships Iona is unwavering in who she is and what she believes. That doesn't mean that Iona doesn't come with her own little twists and turns or harbor secrets. However, unlike Shula, Iona is more willing to join the gang and find her place again.
Ceres does an amazing job in creating a new FMC that doesn't feel like a copy of the first in the series. Both Shula and Iona or different and amazing in their own rights and I absolutely adore them both.
Though this book follows a new main character, it does not take away anything from the supporting cast. Shula still has a mighty presence along with Ryker. I wanted to scream at both these two idiots. ASOI sets Shula and Ryker up for a long road of acceptance with one another and it is so good that is borderlines torture for the reader. We also find out some new tid bits on some of the crew that I am living for and I do not want to spoil for readers.
I absolutely adore this series so much. I have started book three and I can already tell it has the makings of being my favorite so far.
April 9, 2021
A dive deeper into this amazing world!
I didn’t think it could get any better, but Aleera proved me wrong! She broke my heart about 89 times, but in the best ways! Iona and Julius are PERFECT together. I also love that we still got to see Shula and Ryker continue their love story as well.
Aleera has woven an amazing story and world, and I can’t wait to read about all the other men and Elementals, and I can’t wait to see them fight back for their freedom from the humans.
I didn’t think it could get any better, but Aleera proved me wrong! She broke my heart about 89 times, but in the best ways! Iona and Julius are PERFECT together. I also love that we still got to see Shula and Ryker continue their love story as well.
Aleera has woven an amazing story and world, and I can’t wait to read about all the other men and Elementals, and I can’t wait to see them fight back for their freedom from the humans.
May 30, 2022
:0 WOW it really sets up for more books in the series
May 1, 2024
I loved. It’s so good 🥹😍
March 2, 2021
*spoilery*
Another home run from Aleera Anaya Ceres! I can’t imagine how hard it must be to not only create a high fantasy world but to weave different main characters together with existing ones, but she does just that with Iona and Shula. This book picks up where book one left off, with Shula and her companions attempting to find the next elemental. Enter Iona, the feisty strong warrior who immediately captures the attention of Julius. Their bond is strong and immediate, giving us another aspect of the fae bonds shown in book one. But Iona is t without her own demons, which unfold and drive the second half of the book.
As always, Ms. Ceres has a stunning writing style and is able to weave these magical worlds with finesse. Highly recommend!
Another home run from Aleera Anaya Ceres! I can’t imagine how hard it must be to not only create a high fantasy world but to weave different main characters together with existing ones, but she does just that with Iona and Shula. This book picks up where book one left off, with Shula and her companions attempting to find the next elemental. Enter Iona, the feisty strong warrior who immediately captures the attention of Julius. Their bond is strong and immediate, giving us another aspect of the fae bonds shown in book one. But Iona is t without her own demons, which unfold and drive the second half of the book.
As always, Ms. Ceres has a stunning writing style and is able to weave these magical worlds with finesse. Highly recommend!
February 21, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Absolutely LOVED this!
This is the second book in her Fae Elementals series following a Dance with Fire. In this world, elemental fae are specific fae with an elemental power and this book follows Iona who is the last Ice elemental.
Iona is a Fae who lives in a human world where Fae are second class citizens rounded up and killed or taken to camps. She is fierce and proud of who she is and is a really strong FMC. In the beginning she does what she needs to do to survive which means blending in with the humans but she is never ashamed of who she is. She has her own agenda throughout and that motivates a lot of her decision making.
Iona builds some really strong bonds, finding and accepting her mate immediately, her familiar (who I adore) and her bond with Shula as an elemental. They trust her a lot more than they did Shula which causes them to blindly trust decisions she makes throughout which might be seen as controversial.
I love her relationship with Julius 😍 there is just the right amount of steam too!
She is immediately accepted by the resistance which is different to what happened with Shula in book one. Shula does however really comes in to her own in this book and I personally think she was treated really unfairly one book one (and some points in this book too).
Some special mentions:
Uric and Valerio (I want to see if there's anything there 😍)
Ryker needs to look after himself 😭
Also love how even though Shula and Ryker are mates, they have proper relationship trouble. It feels very real.
I really like Clay, I hope he finds a mate too.
The real main character - the polar bear!
Hope you all pick this up and read it, it was so good. I can't wait for the next in the series. The writing was flawless and I am always in awe of Aleeras imagination. 😍
This is the second book in her Fae Elementals series following a Dance with Fire. In this world, elemental fae are specific fae with an elemental power and this book follows Iona who is the last Ice elemental.
Iona is a Fae who lives in a human world where Fae are second class citizens rounded up and killed or taken to camps. She is fierce and proud of who she is and is a really strong FMC. In the beginning she does what she needs to do to survive which means blending in with the humans but she is never ashamed of who she is. She has her own agenda throughout and that motivates a lot of her decision making.
Iona builds some really strong bonds, finding and accepting her mate immediately, her familiar (who I adore) and her bond with Shula as an elemental. They trust her a lot more than they did Shula which causes them to blindly trust decisions she makes throughout which might be seen as controversial.
I love her relationship with Julius 😍 there is just the right amount of steam too!
She is immediately accepted by the resistance which is different to what happened with Shula in book one. Shula does however really comes in to her own in this book and I personally think she was treated really unfairly one book one (and some points in this book too).
Some special mentions:
Uric and Valerio (I want to see if there's anything there 😍)
Ryker needs to look after himself 😭
Also love how even though Shula and Ryker are mates, they have proper relationship trouble. It feels very real.
I really like Clay, I hope he finds a mate too.
The real main character - the polar bear!
Hope you all pick this up and read it, it was so good. I can't wait for the next in the series. The writing was flawless and I am always in awe of Aleeras imagination. 😍
January 29, 2021
A Sword of Ice by Aleera Anaya Ceres
✨✨✨✨✨
Well....the second instalment of Aleeras Fae Elementals series did not disappoint!!
In this one we meet Iona - a Fae female forced to live amongst humans and try her best to remain detected for what she really is. Battling her memories of a sad and emotional past she gets through her days working at the local zoo and planning her better future
Then the humans attack....again
(We really are c**ts aren’t we)
Luckily - our dancer Fire Fae from the first instalment finds her and manages to recruit her to their new resistance group (not without a few swift kicks to the males most treasured parts though)
And now we have our Ice Elemental!! Iona has been perfecting her special skills for over 100 years....just what Shula needs to stop her feeling so worthless and to train her to hone her gifts and create chaos.
We got another mating bond.....I’m not spoiling it with telling you who but once again, it was HOTT. While Shula and Ryker battle to find their balance and keep their relationship together this new couple fit together like a puzzle (and they’re super cute!)
This instalment was full of kick ass females, plenty of man.....and a polar bear....all trying to defeat us c**ty humans and survive to carry on their race...I also have my theory about who the Emperor of Illyk is...
I’m so excited for the third instalment and to where Aleera is taking this group of mismatched but perfectly done Fae. For fans of SJM and Holly Black - pick this series up, you won’t be disappointed
✨✨✨✨✨
Well....the second instalment of Aleeras Fae Elementals series did not disappoint!!
In this one we meet Iona - a Fae female forced to live amongst humans and try her best to remain detected for what she really is. Battling her memories of a sad and emotional past she gets through her days working at the local zoo and planning her better future
Then the humans attack....again
(We really are c**ts aren’t we)
Luckily - our dancer Fire Fae from the first instalment finds her and manages to recruit her to their new resistance group (not without a few swift kicks to the males most treasured parts though)
And now we have our Ice Elemental!! Iona has been perfecting her special skills for over 100 years....just what Shula needs to stop her feeling so worthless and to train her to hone her gifts and create chaos.
We got another mating bond.....I’m not spoiling it with telling you who but once again, it was HOTT. While Shula and Ryker battle to find their balance and keep their relationship together this new couple fit together like a puzzle (and they’re super cute!)
This instalment was full of kick ass females, plenty of man.....and a polar bear....all trying to defeat us c**ty humans and survive to carry on their race...I also have my theory about who the Emperor of Illyk is...
I’m so excited for the third instalment and to where Aleera is taking this group of mismatched but perfectly done Fae. For fans of SJM and Holly Black - pick this series up, you won’t be disappointed
March 9, 2021
Great heroine, good continuation of the series!
The second book in this series, A Sword of Ice, continues to enthrall!
If you’re not familiar with this series, definitely check out the first book before this one. It would be tricky to read them out of order.
Things I loved about this book:
-Iona, the main character, was a 10/10 badass heroine.
-Her familiar was a polar bear. So cool.
-We got to see more of Shula and Ryker’s relationship, which needed to happen from the first book.
-The plot thickens. SO MUCH.
-I love the buildup to the Prince’s mate/relationship. So good.
-If you like epic quest/fantasy books, this is DEFINITELY for you.
I think that a couple of the things needed more support in this book. First, we didn’t get enough of Julius! I loved the development of every other relationship, including Ryker and Shula, but I needed more Julius, especially more Julius and Iona. They absolutely work perfectly as mates, but I needed to know more about both of them and their relationship. I felt like this was really a book about Iona, which I’m not complaining about, but the mate bond felt like an add-on that I almost didn’t need, because I loved Iona so much.
Can’t wait for the next book!
The second book in this series, A Sword of Ice, continues to enthrall!
If you’re not familiar with this series, definitely check out the first book before this one. It would be tricky to read them out of order.
Things I loved about this book:
-Iona, the main character, was a 10/10 badass heroine.
-Her familiar was a polar bear. So cool.
-We got to see more of Shula and Ryker’s relationship, which needed to happen from the first book.
-The plot thickens. SO MUCH.
-I love the buildup to the Prince’s mate/relationship. So good.
-If you like epic quest/fantasy books, this is DEFINITELY for you.
I think that a couple of the things needed more support in this book. First, we didn’t get enough of Julius! I loved the development of every other relationship, including Ryker and Shula, but I needed more Julius, especially more Julius and Iona. They absolutely work perfectly as mates, but I needed to know more about both of them and their relationship. I felt like this was really a book about Iona, which I’m not complaining about, but the mate bond felt like an add-on that I almost didn’t need, because I loved Iona so much.
Can’t wait for the next book!
February 23, 2021
I was more than happy to get my hands on this book and OMG!!!! It was everything I expected with so much more!!
Iona was my kinda leading lady! Strong, fierce, and had a way with words! She was amazing! Her powers were pretty awesome too!
I won’t speak about her love interest but it was totally unexpected for me, BUT they made the perfect fit! I loved how she embraced the mating but set ground rules and in the end it turned into something more!
The Prince really surprised me. That was the turn of events that I didn’t see coming and it was literally the best!
I can’t WAIT to see where the rest of the series takes us and I’m patiently waiting for the next book!! Geez I’m sitting on pins and needles waiting but it will be a good thing when I dive into the next book!
Love Love Love this series!
Iona was my kinda leading lady! Strong, fierce, and had a way with words! She was amazing! Her powers were pretty awesome too!
I won’t speak about her love interest but it was totally unexpected for me, BUT they made the perfect fit! I loved how she embraced the mating but set ground rules and in the end it turned into something more!
The Prince really surprised me. That was the turn of events that I didn’t see coming and it was literally the best!
I can’t WAIT to see where the rest of the series takes us and I’m patiently waiting for the next book!! Geez I’m sitting on pins and needles waiting but it will be a good thing when I dive into the next book!
Love Love Love this series!
November 4, 2021
Ice and fire unite🔥
How i love thee!! Im in love with this series!! This story is gut-wrenching, hopeful, magical and beautiful! The story follows not just one main character but several and its endearing watching this team grow individually and as a team. They are blossoming into this tight friendship that is raw, brutal and real. Truth hurts and they aren’t shy to say it out loud. I do have my favorites and i love my Shula and Clay. They are best friends and we all know how cool and beautiful friendships can be. ALL the FEELS!!!
War is coming. Blood has been spilled and the lines have been drawn. The Fae Resistance is here! get ready, Fire and Ice unite and they are ready for you!! This is book two and it must be read in order 💙
#Fae#Magic#Mana#Mates
#Sisters#Shula&Iona#Fire&Ice
How i love thee!! Im in love with this series!! This story is gut-wrenching, hopeful, magical and beautiful! The story follows not just one main character but several and its endearing watching this team grow individually and as a team. They are blossoming into this tight friendship that is raw, brutal and real. Truth hurts and they aren’t shy to say it out loud. I do have my favorites and i love my Shula and Clay. They are best friends and we all know how cool and beautiful friendships can be. ALL the FEELS!!!
War is coming. Blood has been spilled and the lines have been drawn. The Fae Resistance is here! get ready, Fire and Ice unite and they are ready for you!! This is book two and it must be read in order 💙
#Fae#Magic#Mana#Mates
#Sisters#Shula&Iona#Fire&Ice
June 22, 2021
This was yet another hit for me in the Fae Elemental series. I love Iona as a character. It was nice to see someone as imperfect as her navigate through her new role when she joined the resistance group. Her and her mate have a beautiful relationship from the get-go to boot.
As far as the other characters go, Shula and Ryker man... they have my whole heart. It's been a journey with them, and I get the feeling we're just getting started with them.
The sneak peek for the next novel showed a lot of promise for who the main character is and who **I** believe her mate is going to be. There's lot of potential there and I cannot wait until book 3. I have a feeling they may become one of my favorite couples in the series.
As far as the other characters go, Shula and Ryker man... they have my whole heart. It's been a journey with them, and I get the feeling we're just getting started with them.
The sneak peek for the next novel showed a lot of promise for who the main character is and who **I** believe her mate is going to be. There's lot of potential there and I cannot wait until book 3. I have a feeling they may become one of my favorite couples in the series.
August 8, 2021
I like Iona. Julius seemed pretty bland compared to her.
Glad that Shula became more confident - I would have had a hard time too if everyone kept calling me a coward. I still do not believe that Ryker deserves her. Clay would have been a better pick.
I honestly wonder who will be Varius' mate - hopefully an Earth elemental because he needs to have someone level-headed and grounded.
Glad that Shula became more confident - I would have had a hard time too if everyone kept calling me a coward. I still do not believe that Ryker deserves her. Clay would have been a better pick.
I honestly wonder who will be Varius' mate - hopefully an Earth elemental because he needs to have someone level-headed and grounded.
February 24, 2022
Oh my goodness, I love this series sooo much! I am about to start reading more of Aleera’s books! I cannot wait for book 3 to see what else unfolds. Recommend this entire series 100%
November 30, 2022
Wow, just wow 👌🏼 👏🏼 😍
March 1, 2021
So, I enjoyed the first book, and I enjoyed this one about the same. In this one we meet the next Elemental, Iona, who wields ice and see how she gets integrated amongst the crew, and learn about her past and the scars from it.
I really liked Iona and her joining the crew. She’s an older Fae and is more familiar with her powers since she’s never really been hidden, unlike Shula. She’s much more in tune with herself and is basically a polar opposite of Shula. She’s much more feisty and does not take crap from the boys, she tells them like it is! And I loved how she not only just accepts working with The Resistance, but she also accepts her mate without much thought. She views it as a blessing and goes along with it, after telling him she wants to be respected first and not be treated like an object(get it girl!).
This story also definitely developed a lot more than the previous one. We learn more about Valerio and Uric, as well as watch how Shula and Ryker’s relationship develops(sort of). I did appreciate how their relationship was a bit rocky(different from others, unique) and how they’re learning not only about themselves, but how they can work together, especially fighting the scars from their pasts and accepting each other for who they are rather than who they think they should be. I still think the Fae’s king is super sus. Like I have a theory, and I’m curious to know if I’m right. I will say, I dislike him, IMMENSELY. And Uric(although he’s always been rather rude) I have a soft spot for him and want him to be happy.
After the way this book ended, I’m pretty curious to know how the crew and their story continues.
I really liked Iona and her joining the crew. She’s an older Fae and is more familiar with her powers since she’s never really been hidden, unlike Shula. She’s much more in tune with herself and is basically a polar opposite of Shula. She’s much more feisty and does not take crap from the boys, she tells them like it is! And I loved how she not only just accepts working with The Resistance, but she also accepts her mate without much thought. She views it as a blessing and goes along with it, after telling him she wants to be respected first and not be treated like an object(get it girl!).
This story also definitely developed a lot more than the previous one. We learn more about Valerio and Uric, as well as watch how Shula and Ryker’s relationship develops(sort of). I did appreciate how their relationship was a bit rocky(different from others, unique) and how they’re learning not only about themselves, but how they can work together, especially fighting the scars from their pasts and accepting each other for who they are rather than who they think they should be. I still think the Fae’s king is super sus. Like I have a theory, and I’m curious to know if I’m right. I will say, I dislike him, IMMENSELY. And Uric(although he’s always been rather rude) I have a soft spot for him and want him to be happy.
After the way this book ended, I’m pretty curious to know how the crew and their story continues.
May 2, 2025
A Sword of Ice by Aleera Anaya Ceres is a high fantasy and book 2 in the Fae Elementals series. And omg, did I gobble this one up!!!
This one follows Iona, who is trying to lay low working in a zoo because we are still in a world where being Fae is "wrong"! But of course, she is found out and forced to run right into the open arms of the Resistance. With them, her life changes completely.
I adored this story. There is nothing better than trying to figure out your purpose and living your true self with your tribe! I loved Iona and her magic. She was so damn fierce, mature, and resilient. Although she had her own motives, she was down for the crew. The way she cares and lifts others up was so great to see. We get to see familiar faces, which was so amazing. Of course, we get to read a slow burn, fiery romance. You're thrown into an emotional roller coaster! You also get multiple povs, more world building, found family, fated mates, and spice. I can't get enough of this series and am diving into book 3 right away!
This one follows Iona, who is trying to lay low working in a zoo because we are still in a world where being Fae is "wrong"! But of course, she is found out and forced to run right into the open arms of the Resistance. With them, her life changes completely.
I adored this story. There is nothing better than trying to figure out your purpose and living your true self with your tribe! I loved Iona and her magic. She was so damn fierce, mature, and resilient. Although she had her own motives, she was down for the crew. The way she cares and lifts others up was so great to see. We get to see familiar faces, which was so amazing. Of course, we get to read a slow burn, fiery romance. You're thrown into an emotional roller coaster! You also get multiple povs, more world building, found family, fated mates, and spice. I can't get enough of this series and am diving into book 3 right away!
February 9, 2021
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Aleera has this talent for creating complex and dimensional characters. This story felt so real and raw, it felt like watching a movie.
Iona is a strong character, who has no problem with going head-first into conflict. Her easy acceptance of situations stems from past traumas and her eagerness to not miss out. This makes the romance happen quickly, but again, it never felt rushed.
Watching Shula and Ryker grow as a couple was also refreshing. They don't' necessarily have a HEA, as most second books in stories like these do. They are also dealing with their own independent and romantic issues, and we watch how that fleshes out in this next installment.
Every character is re-introduced in a way more intimate way, we get to see from so many different points of view in this one, which sets us up for what is to come in this series. I am so excited to read the next one!
Aleera has this talent for creating complex and dimensional characters. This story felt so real and raw, it felt like watching a movie.
Iona is a strong character, who has no problem with going head-first into conflict. Her easy acceptance of situations stems from past traumas and her eagerness to not miss out. This makes the romance happen quickly, but again, it never felt rushed.
Watching Shula and Ryker grow as a couple was also refreshing. They don't' necessarily have a HEA, as most second books in stories like these do. They are also dealing with their own independent and romantic issues, and we watch how that fleshes out in this next installment.
Every character is re-introduced in a way more intimate way, we get to see from so many different points of view in this one, which sets us up for what is to come in this series. I am so excited to read the next one!
May 21, 2022
things are getting interesting
Love that the chapters are named. I like how this is Julius and Iona’s story but some chapters still highlight Shula and Ryker.
Iona is EVERYTHING. Strong, independent and encouraging.
Shula is still getting on my nerves. Ryker tells her what she needs to hear and she gets mad that he doesn’t coddle her. He isn’t soft with her and then she says pretty much regrets bonding with him. Like she’s the one who keeps comparing herself to others. Clay is a great friend to Shula but I’m still not here for her. She wants to prove that she’s not weak but picks and chooses when to be headstrong about being present. Find the next elemental, that’s fine but go see if they can help the fae camp is too much.
Valerio is becoming his own Royal leader.
Have an inkling who the emperor is.
Love that the chapters are named. I like how this is Julius and Iona’s story but some chapters still highlight Shula and Ryker.
Iona is EVERYTHING. Strong, independent and encouraging.
Shula is still getting on my nerves. Ryker tells her what she needs to hear and she gets mad that he doesn’t coddle her. He isn’t soft with her and then she says pretty much regrets bonding with him. Like she’s the one who keeps comparing herself to others. Clay is a great friend to Shula but I’m still not here for her. She wants to prove that she’s not weak but picks and chooses when to be headstrong about being present. Find the next elemental, that’s fine but go see if they can help the fae camp is too much.
Valerio is becoming his own Royal leader.
Have an inkling who the emperor is.
February 22, 2021
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I LOVE THIS SO MUCH!!! In ASOI Iona is added to the story and her POV is so interesting and exciting. She is a lot different from Shula, but they also share a good bit of similarities as well.
Iona and Julius pair so well together - they both know exactly what they want and are not afraid to ask for it or to go get it themselves. Because of this, they really know how to temper each other and understand truly what the other is thinking and feeling.
We also still follow the whole resistance gang. I love all of these characters so much and I can't wait to read about what happens after the crazy events of ASOI. I hope all of my resistance babies make it and find happiness! *fingers crossed*
I LOVE THIS SO MUCH!!! In ASOI Iona is added to the story and her POV is so interesting and exciting. She is a lot different from Shula, but they also share a good bit of similarities as well.
Iona and Julius pair so well together - they both know exactly what they want and are not afraid to ask for it or to go get it themselves. Because of this, they really know how to temper each other and understand truly what the other is thinking and feeling.
We also still follow the whole resistance gang. I love all of these characters so much and I can't wait to read about what happens after the crazy events of ASOI. I hope all of my resistance babies make it and find happiness! *fingers crossed*
March 18, 2021
Loved this book almost as much as the first one! Iona’s story is as fierce as she is, and while it does have a somewhat unresolved ending, the development of the overarching plot in this book gives depth to the story to come. I can’t wait for book 3!
Word of warning for traditional paranormal/fantasy romance readers—though this series does have a ‘fated mates’ trope, it is not what you are used to reading. Both Iona and Shula’s stories are unconventional in many ways and I think that’s part of the reason why I’m finding it so appealing. Particularly with Shula and Ryker.
Hope the wait for book 3 isn’t too long.
Word of warning for traditional paranormal/fantasy romance readers—though this series does have a ‘fated mates’ trope, it is not what you are used to reading. Both Iona and Shula’s stories are unconventional in many ways and I think that’s part of the reason why I’m finding it so appealing. Particularly with Shula and Ryker.
Hope the wait for book 3 isn’t too long.
April 17, 2025
A Sword of Ice was just as captivating as A Dance with Fire. Iona is fierce in a way I aspire to be. She is head strong, stubborn, and appears fearless in the face of impossible situations. She is firm in her beliefs and lets the voice of Mana lead her. The world that Aleera Anaya Ceres has created is truly breathtakingly beautiful while ripping your heart apart (in all the right ways). I'm going to keep this review short because I've already gotten book 3 in the series and I need to start it NOW!
September 27, 2021
A Sword of Ice picks up seamlessly where A Dance With Fire left off!
We get to meet Iona and learn about her struggles. Before long the original cast of characters from book one appears and the story continues from there. This story focuses on Iona and Julius as the main love interests. However, we do still get to see Shula and Ryker from the previous book. I liked that they didn't just disappear in to a world of instant happily ever after. They still have issues to work through and we get to see that here in this story.
This story is a fantasy rife with real life issues and historical themes. Some characters have PTSD and get panic attacks. The Fae are treated like second class citizens and limited to the ghetto. This story reminded me of the German's treatment of the Jews during WWII. There was segregation, soldiers marching, items worn for means of identification, hiding by citizens, forced registration and gas weapons.
I continue to enjoy this series and look forward to the next book!
Rating - 4/5
Steam - 5/5
POV - Third Person Multiple
Tropes - High Fantasy Fae, Fated Mates, Interracial Romance
Bonus Items - Glossary and Pronunciation Guide at beginning of book. Map at beginning of book. FMC POC. LGBTQ+.
We get to meet Iona and learn about her struggles. Before long the original cast of characters from book one appears and the story continues from there. This story focuses on Iona and Julius as the main love interests. However, we do still get to see Shula and Ryker from the previous book. I liked that they didn't just disappear in to a world of instant happily ever after. They still have issues to work through and we get to see that here in this story.
This story is a fantasy rife with real life issues and historical themes. Some characters have PTSD and get panic attacks. The Fae are treated like second class citizens and limited to the ghetto. This story reminded me of the German's treatment of the Jews during WWII. There was segregation, soldiers marching, items worn for means of identification, hiding by citizens, forced registration and gas weapons.
I continue to enjoy this series and look forward to the next book!
Rating - 4/5
Steam - 5/5
POV - Third Person Multiple
Tropes - High Fantasy Fae, Fated Mates, Interracial Romance
Bonus Items - Glossary and Pronunciation Guide at beginning of book. Map at beginning of book. FMC POC. LGBTQ+.
September 25, 2022
Wow,
What do I say when every book gets better than the last one, the story that is emerging from the first one is beautiful and terrifying, the glorious story of love and fear, terror and delight, the ongoing pain that is delivered on the tail of a love that transcends all. I have to stay, so far, that this series is my by far my favourite of all of Aleera's creations! Can't wait to read the other four!!!
What do I say when every book gets better than the last one, the story that is emerging from the first one is beautiful and terrifying, the glorious story of love and fear, terror and delight, the ongoing pain that is delivered on the tail of a love that transcends all. I have to stay, so far, that this series is my by far my favourite of all of Aleera's creations! Can't wait to read the other four!!!
May 12, 2022
Loved this sequel. The pace was a lot faster than the first book which I liked but at some points it felt a little too fast. I can’t wait to read the 3rd book and the rest of the books to be released.
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