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Hunter #1
A Trial of Ice and Blood
Eric Christensen never expects a welcome when he returns to the Hunters’ Guild – even after long months of monster-hunting.
Though when he is immediately sent on a gruelling mission alongside an inexperienced apprentice, he is less than happy.
Still, it is his responsibility to train her – and quickly. The Ulvic Islands are dangerous, and full of monsters.
Together, they must become the hunters the Ulvic Islands need. For their mission will soon result in a mystery. One that will threaten the Ulvic Islands, and the world . . .
Though when he is immediately sent on a gruelling mission alongside an inexperienced apprentice, he is less than happy.
Still, it is his responsibility to train her – and quickly. The Ulvic Islands are dangerous, and full of monsters.
Together, they must become the hunters the Ulvic Islands need. For their mission will soon result in a mystery. One that will threaten the Ulvic Islands, and the world . . .
74 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2021
155 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 25, 2021
Okay, well this took me about two and a half seconds to finish. It's really short. I mean really, really short. Kindle says that it's 110 print pages, but truthfully, I'd be surprised if this is the case.
It seems as if it might be a good story, but it's just so infernally truncated that I couldn't say!! I am not invested enough to know for certain, and I am unwilling to pay individually for what amounts to glorified chapters. If it's a full-length book that's one thing, but I could do without this episode nonsense.
It seems as if it might be a good story, but it's just so infernally truncated that I couldn't say!! I am not invested enough to know for certain, and I am unwilling to pay individually for what amounts to glorified chapters. If it's a full-length book that's one thing, but I could do without this episode nonsense.
December 11, 2022
Very like the witcher
The pace and motiff of this book is a lot like the witcher series but different in key aspects here and there
The pace and motiff of this book is a lot like the witcher series but different in key aspects here and there
October 26, 2021
I loved this! Action packed and giving the characters depth in a short novella. This is the first of a series, and does a very good job setting the stage for what's to come.
Set in the cold and unforgiving Ulvic Islands, the story of two monster-hunters begins. Eric Christensen, a legend among the Hunter's Guild and Alice, his unexpected apprentice, receive an important and potentially dangerous mission.
We get a glimpse of the world, and the writing really transports the reader into it. We switch between two character POVs and I really enjoyed the atmosphere the author created through the eyes of these characters. It is a cold world in every sense, where the monster Hunters are tasked with keeping the people safe from these creatures.
I really liked Eric as a character, he is the brooding type, but there were glimpses of his big heart showing throughout. I love myself a tough exterior character with a soft heart ❤️. I am curious to see how his relationship with his apprentice will develop.
Also, the monster element really had me intrigued as well, the origin of these creatures is not what you would expect and it ties in with the political aspects too.
If you like Witcher type fight-scenes, dark, cold, viking-inspired worlds and fantasy creatures do give this novella a try as it is a very fun read!!
Thanks to the author for kindly providing me his work in exchange for my honest opinion!!
Set in the cold and unforgiving Ulvic Islands, the story of two monster-hunters begins. Eric Christensen, a legend among the Hunter's Guild and Alice, his unexpected apprentice, receive an important and potentially dangerous mission.
We get a glimpse of the world, and the writing really transports the reader into it. We switch between two character POVs and I really enjoyed the atmosphere the author created through the eyes of these characters. It is a cold world in every sense, where the monster Hunters are tasked with keeping the people safe from these creatures.
I really liked Eric as a character, he is the brooding type, but there were glimpses of his big heart showing throughout. I love myself a tough exterior character with a soft heart ❤️. I am curious to see how his relationship with his apprentice will develop.
Also, the monster element really had me intrigued as well, the origin of these creatures is not what you would expect and it ties in with the political aspects too.
If you like Witcher type fight-scenes, dark, cold, viking-inspired worlds and fantasy creatures do give this novella a try as it is a very fun read!!
Thanks to the author for kindly providing me his work in exchange for my honest opinion!!
October 13, 2021
If you’re a fan of The Witcher and Game of Thrones, I highly recommend this novel and series!
I was asked to read an excerpt of this book in exchange for a review. Once I started reading this, I couldn’t stop! The plot is quickly paced, sucking you right in from the beginning. We follow two characters in this multi-POV book, Eric, a monster hunter, and Alice, his new apprentice. Both of their inner monologues keep things really interesting, and I found myself smirking at some of their thoughts. I could almost feel the awkward tension as they first got to know each other, riding their horses in silence. Lound does a really great job of showing the characters’ feelings without “telling” you what they feel, which I always appreciate from authors!
Right as I was on the edge of my seat, hanging onto each word and anxiously trying to figure out what was about to happen, Lound went and ended the excerpt on a cliffhanger. I was slightly mad at first because I was dying to know what happens next. But clearly Lound knows what he’s doing to hook in readers, because I will be adding this whole series to my TBR. I will be very impatiently waiting for the release of the full book!
I was asked to read an excerpt of this book in exchange for a review. Once I started reading this, I couldn’t stop! The plot is quickly paced, sucking you right in from the beginning. We follow two characters in this multi-POV book, Eric, a monster hunter, and Alice, his new apprentice. Both of their inner monologues keep things really interesting, and I found myself smirking at some of their thoughts. I could almost feel the awkward tension as they first got to know each other, riding their horses in silence. Lound does a really great job of showing the characters’ feelings without “telling” you what they feel, which I always appreciate from authors!
Right as I was on the edge of my seat, hanging onto each word and anxiously trying to figure out what was about to happen, Lound went and ended the excerpt on a cliffhanger. I was slightly mad at first because I was dying to know what happens next. But clearly Lound knows what he’s doing to hook in readers, because I will be adding this whole series to my TBR. I will be very impatiently waiting for the release of the full book!
October 8, 2021
This is the first in a series of epic fantasy novellas and while I don't normally enjoy shorter stories...I really enjoyed this! I am beginning to see why book episodes are becoming popular. Its like a TV show for books.
In this first episode, we are given a taste of the overall picture. The lands are overrun with monsters and hunters, like Eric and Alice, are doing what they can to minimize their existence.
This was done well, IMO, as you are drawn into the story and then BAM, it's done and you're left wanting more. I am excited for these as its my first episode driven series and I love the content and characters already.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone. This one comes out October 22!
In this first episode, we are given a taste of the overall picture. The lands are overrun with monsters and hunters, like Eric and Alice, are doing what they can to minimize their existence.
This was done well, IMO, as you are drawn into the story and then BAM, it's done and you're left wanting more. I am excited for these as its my first episode driven series and I love the content and characters already.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone. This one comes out October 22!
October 17, 2021
This is the first installment of a series of novellas by Alexander Lound. The author asked if I would like an ARC of A Trail of Ice and Blood and I'm so glad I accepted.
The story follows Eric who is a monster hunter in a time when monsters are over running the world. He's given a mission to complete along with an apprentice named Alice. Much excitement and adventure ensues.
Despite it being a novella I appreciated all the extra details the author was able to provide. Especially in making me understand the characters more. Eric and Alice are so different with not a lot in common and I loved seeing their relationship change as the story progressed. I also enjoyed the humour in the book. There's so much action in the story that I simply couldn't put it down and had to find out what happened. The characters are believable and I found myself warming to them. The story ends on a cliffhanger, assuring I will definitely continue with the series. This has all you need in a good fantasy series, great characters, action, humour and a well thought out clever plot. I loved it. Thanks again to Alexander Lound for sending me a copy.
The story follows Eric who is a monster hunter in a time when monsters are over running the world. He's given a mission to complete along with an apprentice named Alice. Much excitement and adventure ensues.
Despite it being a novella I appreciated all the extra details the author was able to provide. Especially in making me understand the characters more. Eric and Alice are so different with not a lot in common and I loved seeing their relationship change as the story progressed. I also enjoyed the humour in the book. There's so much action in the story that I simply couldn't put it down and had to find out what happened. The characters are believable and I found myself warming to them. The story ends on a cliffhanger, assuring I will definitely continue with the series. This has all you need in a good fantasy series, great characters, action, humour and a well thought out clever plot. I loved it. Thanks again to Alexander Lound for sending me a copy.
October 22, 2021
A Trial of Ice and Blood is a fantastical fantasy novella with feels of epic monster hunting from The Witcher, but it’s own unique storyline. I enjoyed the guild setup of the people who hunt monsters, and that it’s rare for women to be in it yet we have one as a main character. A world ravaged by war, people just doing the best they can to survive under new ruler ship. We see humanity at it’s most vulnerable, and one’s will to make their own path in life. I loved the creativity of this story and look forward to more books in the series.
October 20, 2021
Eric Christensen never expects a welcome when he returns to the Hunters' Guild - even after long months of monster-hunting.
Though when he is immediately sent on a gruelling mission alongside an inexperienced apprentice, he is less than happy.
Still, it is his responsibility to train her - and quickly. The Ulvic Islands are dangerous, and full of monsters.
Together, they must become the hunters the Ulvic Islands need. For their mission will soon result in a mystery. One that will threaten the Ulvic Islands, and the world...
A TRIAL OF ICE AND BLOOD is the latest book by @aloundauthor, an author I discovered with the Jonny Roberts saga, thus switching from paranormal adventure to good old fantasy.
Since I thoroughly enjoyed all his previous books, I had to read this one and what a nice surprise I had discovering a fantastic universe full of monsters.
The dynamic between our two protagonists may seem simple at first but it holds up as far as I'm concerned: Eric, a seasoned hunter, is forced to deal with the presence of Alice, a young apprentice who has more than one trick up her sleeve and who will surprise him on more than one occasion.
With each new chapter, the point of view of the story changes from Eric's to Alice's, allowing the story to maintain a fairly steady pace.
This book is a novella and therefore quick to read, which is welcome when you have just finished a book that seems endless.
First novella of his new fantasy series HUNTER, and first of a long series to come.
At least that's what I wish to this author who deserves to be more widely known.
My complaint with some fantasy series is that we are often introduced to a lot of facts and characters and the overload of information takes us away from the main storyline.
The cliffhanger at the end of the novella foreshadows great adventures to come for our dynamic duo.
A TRIAL OF ICE AND BLOOD will be released on October 22nd, in exactly two days, so if this review has made you want to know more, I advise you to go and visit Alexander's website: https://www.alexanderlound.com
Though when he is immediately sent on a gruelling mission alongside an inexperienced apprentice, he is less than happy.
Still, it is his responsibility to train her - and quickly. The Ulvic Islands are dangerous, and full of monsters.
Together, they must become the hunters the Ulvic Islands need. For their mission will soon result in a mystery. One that will threaten the Ulvic Islands, and the world...
A TRIAL OF ICE AND BLOOD is the latest book by @aloundauthor, an author I discovered with the Jonny Roberts saga, thus switching from paranormal adventure to good old fantasy.
Since I thoroughly enjoyed all his previous books, I had to read this one and what a nice surprise I had discovering a fantastic universe full of monsters.
The dynamic between our two protagonists may seem simple at first but it holds up as far as I'm concerned: Eric, a seasoned hunter, is forced to deal with the presence of Alice, a young apprentice who has more than one trick up her sleeve and who will surprise him on more than one occasion.
With each new chapter, the point of view of the story changes from Eric's to Alice's, allowing the story to maintain a fairly steady pace.
This book is a novella and therefore quick to read, which is welcome when you have just finished a book that seems endless.
First novella of his new fantasy series HUNTER, and first of a long series to come.
At least that's what I wish to this author who deserves to be more widely known.
My complaint with some fantasy series is that we are often introduced to a lot of facts and characters and the overload of information takes us away from the main storyline.
The cliffhanger at the end of the novella foreshadows great adventures to come for our dynamic duo.
A TRIAL OF ICE AND BLOOD will be released on October 22nd, in exactly two days, so if this review has made you want to know more, I advise you to go and visit Alexander's website: https://www.alexanderlound.com
October 22, 2021
Omg Alexander Lound did it again lol I freaking loved this Novella and I need episode 2!
Before I continue let me share that did I recieve a free ARC of A Trial of Ice and Blood in exchange for an honest review but all thoughts are my own.
I could not put this Novella down if you love Fantasy and adventure I recommend you checkout this book! I loved the multiple POV and even though it's a quick read nothing feels rushed. We get so much from both characters and I can't wait to see how Eric and Alice journey continues. This book pulled me in so quick that by the time I got to the end I couldn't belive it was the end lol! Especially with that cliffhanger ending I'm excited to see what comes next. This was a fantastic start to the Hunters series and it will definitely leave you wanting more!
(Genre: Fantasy Adventure Mystery)
Summary:
Eric Christensen has made a name for himself as being one the of the best hunters the guild has ever trained. Having been killing monsters for a while now it's of no surprise to him that he must take up a new mission even though he has just returned from his last one. But this mission has additional surprise with it... he must take an apprentice. Though unhappy with this arrangement it his job to train her.
Alice has heard many things about the Dragon Slayer Eric Christensen. Mainly that he is one of the best hunters the guild has ever seen which means she gets to learn from the best. Even though it seems Eric is unhappy with the arrangement Alice can't wait to show him the kind of hunter she is.
The Ulvic Islands are being threatened by something unknown. What started out as a simple mission turns into more then either was ready for but it's up to them to solve this mystery before it's to late.
Before I continue let me share that did I recieve a free ARC of A Trial of Ice and Blood in exchange for an honest review but all thoughts are my own.
I could not put this Novella down if you love Fantasy and adventure I recommend you checkout this book! I loved the multiple POV and even though it's a quick read nothing feels rushed. We get so much from both characters and I can't wait to see how Eric and Alice journey continues. This book pulled me in so quick that by the time I got to the end I couldn't belive it was the end lol! Especially with that cliffhanger ending I'm excited to see what comes next. This was a fantastic start to the Hunters series and it will definitely leave you wanting more!
(Genre: Fantasy Adventure Mystery)
Summary:
Eric Christensen has made a name for himself as being one the of the best hunters the guild has ever trained. Having been killing monsters for a while now it's of no surprise to him that he must take up a new mission even though he has just returned from his last one. But this mission has additional surprise with it... he must take an apprentice. Though unhappy with this arrangement it his job to train her.
Alice has heard many things about the Dragon Slayer Eric Christensen. Mainly that he is one of the best hunters the guild has ever seen which means she gets to learn from the best. Even though it seems Eric is unhappy with the arrangement Alice can't wait to show him the kind of hunter she is.
The Ulvic Islands are being threatened by something unknown. What started out as a simple mission turns into more then either was ready for but it's up to them to solve this mystery before it's to late.
November 8, 2021
I received a free copy of this book from the author so that I could review it.
I was very intrigued by the book from the moment I read the blurb and it’s safe to say it didn’t disappoint.
The writing style is good and unique and this worked well with the world-building, which was good as well. We got quite a good glimpse into the world and I’m excited to find out more about it.
Most characters were also very interesting and were very well written; they seemed real. They had flaws and strengths, difficult personalities, secrets, etc. Anything you could say about a real human being to be fair. However, this was mostly the case with the main characters (Eric & Alice) while the side characters didn’t have much development and seemed kind of generic at times.
The main plot was very interesting from the beginning and we already got a glimpse of multiple side plots that I’m sure will add greatly to the story.
I also very much enjoyed the multiple POVs, as they gave me the chance to see the characters in different ways and allowed me to connect with each character more.
Altogether I’d rate this book ⅘, as I feel it was lacking some world- and character-building; given it’s the first part of a novella series it does make sense, however. And as mentioned, the plot was good, the main characters are interesting and the writing style is enjoyable, so if you like fantasy (especially things like Game of Thrones and The Witcher) I’d definitely recommend this read!
I was very intrigued by the book from the moment I read the blurb and it’s safe to say it didn’t disappoint.
The writing style is good and unique and this worked well with the world-building, which was good as well. We got quite a good glimpse into the world and I’m excited to find out more about it.
Most characters were also very interesting and were very well written; they seemed real. They had flaws and strengths, difficult personalities, secrets, etc. Anything you could say about a real human being to be fair. However, this was mostly the case with the main characters (Eric & Alice) while the side characters didn’t have much development and seemed kind of generic at times.
The main plot was very interesting from the beginning and we already got a glimpse of multiple side plots that I’m sure will add greatly to the story.
I also very much enjoyed the multiple POVs, as they gave me the chance to see the characters in different ways and allowed me to connect with each character more.
Altogether I’d rate this book ⅘, as I feel it was lacking some world- and character-building; given it’s the first part of a novella series it does make sense, however. And as mentioned, the plot was good, the main characters are interesting and the writing style is enjoyable, so if you like fantasy (especially things like Game of Thrones and The Witcher) I’d definitely recommend this read!
September 29, 2021
Please note, I received a free ARC of A Trial of Ice and Blood in exchange for an honest review.
This was the first episode in The Hunter Series and it was a fairly strong entry to the series.
This book follows Eric, an expert hunter and Alice, his new apprentice. This did give me slight Witcher vibes with the theme of 'monster hunters'.
Each chapter has split point of views between the two main characters and I did enjoy this, however, I felt the characters would benefit more from some more fleshing out. We got a glimpse into their personalities and their relationship with eachother and I do appreciate this is a novella and the first epsiode, so I'm sure there it's lots of opportunities for these aspects to be developed later on. This world started off pretty narrow with no magic system, however we did get a small glimpse into the possibility of magic within this world.
The plot was fast paced with a clear direction, and the ending of this novella did leave me intrigued to see what could happen in the next installments as it was left on a bit of a cliff hanger. I think for the size of the novella, the story and pacing probably couldn't have benefited from any more detail or events than it did so it was an entertaining short read. Overall, a good start to The Hunter Series.
This was the first episode in The Hunter Series and it was a fairly strong entry to the series.
This book follows Eric, an expert hunter and Alice, his new apprentice. This did give me slight Witcher vibes with the theme of 'monster hunters'.
Each chapter has split point of views between the two main characters and I did enjoy this, however, I felt the characters would benefit more from some more fleshing out. We got a glimpse into their personalities and their relationship with eachother and I do appreciate this is a novella and the first epsiode, so I'm sure there it's lots of opportunities for these aspects to be developed later on. This world started off pretty narrow with no magic system, however we did get a small glimpse into the possibility of magic within this world.
The plot was fast paced with a clear direction, and the ending of this novella did leave me intrigued to see what could happen in the next installments as it was left on a bit of a cliff hanger. I think for the size of the novella, the story and pacing probably couldn't have benefited from any more detail or events than it did so it was an entertaining short read. Overall, a good start to The Hunter Series.
November 1, 2021
Alexander asked me to read the first book in his new fantasy series and it sounded really promising, so I said yes. Thank you again for the chance to read this book 🥰
The story could be easily described with The Witcher meets the Jedi Order. But there is more to it of course. You have a monser hunter called Eric who has a very cold and arrogant personality, but he is a master in his job. So he was send on a mission together with his new unwelcomed apprentice Alice.
To begin with, the story does not start slow and with a lot of explanations - which I found great. You were thrown right into it, but you learn more about the characters and the world throughout this first book.
The story is very fast paced and we have no down time at all, but there are only 100 pages, so no time for that. It was exciting from the beginning and although it's very short it does not lack great action-scenes. And it ends with a hughe cliffhanger.
The character-work is also quite good. You follow Eric and Alice and both have really interesting personalities, with a lot more to discover.
A great start into this new series. Fast paced, action packed, an exciting world and great characters. The only negative point is that I would have loved to get a little more worldbuilding, but hopefully there is more to come. And I'm curious how the story will proceed. 😊✌
The story could be easily described with The Witcher meets the Jedi Order. But there is more to it of course. You have a monser hunter called Eric who has a very cold and arrogant personality, but he is a master in his job. So he was send on a mission together with his new unwelcomed apprentice Alice.
To begin with, the story does not start slow and with a lot of explanations - which I found great. You were thrown right into it, but you learn more about the characters and the world throughout this first book.
The story is very fast paced and we have no down time at all, but there are only 100 pages, so no time for that. It was exciting from the beginning and although it's very short it does not lack great action-scenes. And it ends with a hughe cliffhanger.
The character-work is also quite good. You follow Eric and Alice and both have really interesting personalities, with a lot more to discover.
A great start into this new series. Fast paced, action packed, an exciting world and great characters. The only negative point is that I would have loved to get a little more worldbuilding, but hopefully there is more to come. And I'm curious how the story will proceed. 😊✌
October 23, 2021
I was giving the opportunity to read this book before the release by the author which I am extremely grateful for.
I really loved this novella, as it was a quick and easy read but still left me wanting more after the great cliff hanger ending. The storyline its self was really interesting for me as I love the genre of adventure and fantasy, these elements were well written, and the world building was done exceptionally well; Brief yet very detailed. I especially loved the difference between the two main characters Eric and Alice. I perceived Eric to be proud, arrogant, rough around the edges, observant, and brave. Where as Alice comes across as kind, unsure of her confidence, underestimated and obedient. But these two also have very similar characteristics that are shown further in which completely balances them out as a great duo; they are both fiercely loyal, ambitious, determined and highly skilled. I am beyond excited for the books to follow.
I really loved this novella, as it was a quick and easy read but still left me wanting more after the great cliff hanger ending. The storyline its self was really interesting for me as I love the genre of adventure and fantasy, these elements were well written, and the world building was done exceptionally well; Brief yet very detailed. I especially loved the difference between the two main characters Eric and Alice. I perceived Eric to be proud, arrogant, rough around the edges, observant, and brave. Where as Alice comes across as kind, unsure of her confidence, underestimated and obedient. But these two also have very similar characteristics that are shown further in which completely balances them out as a great duo; they are both fiercely loyal, ambitious, determined and highly skilled. I am beyond excited for the books to follow.
October 15, 2021
This is the first novella in the Hunter Series, new fantasy by Alexander Lound.
Even though it's short, it doesn't lack excitement. We follow the story from two points of view, Eric's and Alice's. They're hunters (actually, Alice is about to become one) on a new mission. On their way we get to see the magical world and beings, just a glimpse, but enough to wait for the next parts. The world is carefully planned and described, but mystery about the creatures is something we really want to decipher, together with our main characters.
•
Apart from the main plot, I love the development of the charactes. The author managed to create realistic and likeable characters. He gave us enough information, but there's still a lot to come. The chemistry between Alice and Eric is evident from the beginning, but it's not forced. I can't wait to see what happens there. 😊
Even though it's short, it doesn't lack excitement. We follow the story from two points of view, Eric's and Alice's. They're hunters (actually, Alice is about to become one) on a new mission. On their way we get to see the magical world and beings, just a glimpse, but enough to wait for the next parts. The world is carefully planned and described, but mystery about the creatures is something we really want to decipher, together with our main characters.
•
Apart from the main plot, I love the development of the charactes. The author managed to create realistic and likeable characters. He gave us enough information, but there's still a lot to come. The chemistry between Alice and Eric is evident from the beginning, but it's not forced. I can't wait to see what happens there. 😊
July 11, 2024
An expert and cynical monster hunter, a naïve and skillful apprentice, and a world where monsters abound: Alexander Lound’s Tale of Ice and Blood takes its hero and heroine on a journey through icy landscapes, to a place where blood flows freely. But are all monsters bad? Are all monster hunters good? And is money really the only thing that matters?
The world of these novels is nicely crafted, with just enough shown to the reader to keep them oriented, and plenty clearly waiting to be revealed as the series progresses. The characters are interesting, and the sense of mystery and sorrow behind the monster hunter makes the reader (and the apprentice) long to know more.
It’s an enticing series, and I’m eager to read more.
Disclosure: I got the first few books in the series on a deal and I’m glad I did.
The world of these novels is nicely crafted, with just enough shown to the reader to keep them oriented, and plenty clearly waiting to be revealed as the series progresses. The characters are interesting, and the sense of mystery and sorrow behind the monster hunter makes the reader (and the apprentice) long to know more.
It’s an enticing series, and I’m eager to read more.
Disclosure: I got the first few books in the series on a deal and I’m glad I did.
September 17, 2025
This is a quick fantasy story about a Hunter (person who hunts monsters) being paired with a younger apprentice. This is definitely giving serious Witcher vibes, so if you like that series, then you will love this.
The only real downside is that there just isn’t enough material here for a proper review. By my count, the Kindle edition is 74 pages long. So, treat ‘Episode 1’ as the author calls it, much like a Netflix binge: read as much as you can all in one sitting.
This isn’t my style, however, and I decided to stop here and read another fantasy book in between. Still, you can get all ten ‘episodes’ for a low prince as a bundle on Kindle, like I did. I would suggest it, as there are hints at better writing skill than most self published works I’ve read.
I give it a three out of five.
The only real downside is that there just isn’t enough material here for a proper review. By my count, the Kindle edition is 74 pages long. So, treat ‘Episode 1’ as the author calls it, much like a Netflix binge: read as much as you can all in one sitting.
This isn’t my style, however, and I decided to stop here and read another fantasy book in between. Still, you can get all ten ‘episodes’ for a low prince as a bundle on Kindle, like I did. I would suggest it, as there are hints at better writing skill than most self published works I’ve read.
I give it a three out of five.
October 24, 2021
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review!*
A Trial of Ice and Blood is the first novella in a series about seasoned hunter Eric, who gets sent on a mysterious quest to meet with the leader of the land. While on this mission, he is asked to take an apprentice–Alice–with him so she may learn the ropes of what it means to be a hunter.
Being the first in the series, this novella focuses on the first leg of their journey to the capital and the danger that rises simply from travelling from town to town.
We also spend a lot of time getting to know these two characters and how different they are from each other, which I think is something the author does very well. It’s easy to tell which character is more experienced and which is more of a newbie, and their switching viewpoints highlight this as we get to see a moment through each character’s eyes. Eric picks up on things Alice doesn’t, while Alice gets more connected to the people they meet and takes risks as she explores the hidden rules of this world.
The “Big Bad” of this story is easy to sympathize with, and I honestly cried during the big battle. This book gets really dark really quickly, but I also think this shows off how different the main characters are again. I can expect these characters to have opposing viewpoints that will cause conflict between them along this journey, and I’m interested to see who will ultimately win.
This novella ends on a rather large and unexpected cliffhanger, and I’m excited to see where the rest of the entries in this series takes us, as what little information we got of this world so far is complex. It’s easy to tell this author has put a lot of time into worldbuilding, and while we didn’t get to see much of it in this book because of the nature of the plot thus far, I’m interested in seeing how everything pans out.
A Trial of Ice and Blood is the first novella in a series about seasoned hunter Eric, who gets sent on a mysterious quest to meet with the leader of the land. While on this mission, he is asked to take an apprentice–Alice–with him so she may learn the ropes of what it means to be a hunter.
Being the first in the series, this novella focuses on the first leg of their journey to the capital and the danger that rises simply from travelling from town to town.
We also spend a lot of time getting to know these two characters and how different they are from each other, which I think is something the author does very well. It’s easy to tell which character is more experienced and which is more of a newbie, and their switching viewpoints highlight this as we get to see a moment through each character’s eyes. Eric picks up on things Alice doesn’t, while Alice gets more connected to the people they meet and takes risks as she explores the hidden rules of this world.
The “Big Bad” of this story is easy to sympathize with, and I honestly cried during the big battle. This book gets really dark really quickly, but I also think this shows off how different the main characters are again. I can expect these characters to have opposing viewpoints that will cause conflict between them along this journey, and I’m interested to see who will ultimately win.
This novella ends on a rather large and unexpected cliffhanger, and I’m excited to see where the rest of the entries in this series takes us, as what little information we got of this world so far is complex. It’s easy to tell this author has put a lot of time into worldbuilding, and while we didn’t get to see much of it in this book because of the nature of the plot thus far, I’m interested in seeing how everything pans out.
October 23, 2021
Eric returns from one mission to be given another mission and an apprentice to take and teach. Eric is a monster hunter, which drew me in from the start, however this was no normal mission. This is a short story but highly enjoyable, right from the start you can tell this is going to be different for Eric, you sense his trepidation about the mission and his companion.
The character development for me is what let this down a bit, however this is a short story and with that you expect this, I can't wait to get to know the characters more in the next one. This ending was amazing and will leave you wanting more, and wanting to know what they do.
The character development for me is what let this down a bit, however this is a short story and with that you expect this, I can't wait to get to know the characters more in the next one. This ending was amazing and will leave you wanting more, and wanting to know what they do.
October 22, 2021
I really enjoyed this new novella from Alexander Lound. I was swept away into an icy landscape where humans are faced with threats from mutant animals, battling with their own inner demons and prejudices, as well as the threats posed by the monsters. I enjoyed the interactions between the main characters, Eric and Alice – it’s good to see their weaknesses on display as well as their strengths – and the action scenes were exciting and tense.
Full of wonderment and intrigue, this is definitely a series to watch out for.
Full of wonderment and intrigue, this is definitely a series to watch out for.
March 31, 2022
Entertaining read!
Eric Christenson is an experienced hunter from the Hunters Guild, he is saddled with Alice a young trainee as an apprentice . They are sent on an important journey. On the way, they end up being attacked by giant wolves, mutated by dark magic. I felt this was an interesting and intriguing story even though it ends with a cliffhanger. That just wet my appetite for more. So I will be getting book #2 for sure....
Eric Christenson is an experienced hunter from the Hunters Guild, he is saddled with Alice a young trainee as an apprentice . They are sent on an important journey. On the way, they end up being attacked by giant wolves, mutated by dark magic. I felt this was an interesting and intriguing story even though it ends with a cliffhanger. That just wet my appetite for more. So I will be getting book #2 for sure....
January 8, 2022
A Trial of Ice and Blood is a good start to Lound's new adventure series. We meet veteran monster hunter Eric and his apprentice Alice as they set out to find the creature raiding a mountain outpost. The battle between hunters and monsters is very exciting. Recommended for sword and sorcery and adventure fans.
May 8, 2023
I had never heard of this author until I got six of his books free from him. This one was a real page turner. For me, it had fighting magic monsters, everything, good characterization, a great story, good world building.i have moved on to the next book, and I love it,so to all fantasy readers this series is a must read.
June 10, 2023
this book has potential to be amazing.
This is the first book I read from this author and it has the potential to be amazing however it is a short read 72 pages and it has a cliffhanger. Why??? it seems like it was just getting good and then it just ends. Hopefully the rest of the books in this series doesn’t end to soon and with to many cliffhangers.
This is the first book I read from this author and it has the potential to be amazing however it is a short read 72 pages and it has a cliffhanger. Why??? it seems like it was just getting good and then it just ends. Hopefully the rest of the books in this series doesn’t end to soon and with to many cliffhangers.
October 13, 2021
(4.5 stars) I was fortunate to receive an eARC of this epic fantasy novella in exchange for an honest review.
A Trial of Ice and Blood was an excellent start to a promising series of novellas that remind me of The Witcher, but not so much that it doesn't have its own story to tell. It was fast paced and a quick, enjoyable read. With it being so short, there wasn't much time for a lot of character development but I found myself really wanting to know more about Eric's past, especially seeing him through Alice's point of view. I would love to see more of the magic fleshed out, as well. Overall, a strong start to what I think will be a great series, and with the way it ended I definitely want to read more.
A Trial of Ice and Blood was an excellent start to a promising series of novellas that remind me of The Witcher, but not so much that it doesn't have its own story to tell. It was fast paced and a quick, enjoyable read. With it being so short, there wasn't much time for a lot of character development but I found myself really wanting to know more about Eric's past, especially seeing him through Alice's point of view. I would love to see more of the magic fleshed out, as well. Overall, a strong start to what I think will be a great series, and with the way it ended I definitely want to read more.
November 22, 2021
I enjoyed this a lot. I don’t normally read novellas but this one was really good. The characters were intriguing. The story and world were interesting and just as it was getting really good the story ended. Will look into the second one for sure
July 30, 2022
Not so much a story as an extended sample.
Two characters whose voices are indistinguishable from one another; peppered with modern phraseology like job description and budget cuts; and dialogue that is so on the nose it makes your eyes water.
Fan fiction for Witcher fans.
Two characters whose voices are indistinguishable from one another; peppered with modern phraseology like job description and budget cuts; and dialogue that is so on the nose it makes your eyes water.
Fan fiction for Witcher fans.
November 5, 2023
short but interesting
A short but interesting read . Not a fully completed story so you definitely need to read the others to get the rest of the story as it just sort of ends mid battle.
A short but interesting read . Not a fully completed story so you definitely need to read the others to get the rest of the story as it just sort of ends mid battle.
September 23, 2024
This is barely novella-length. It doesn’t bother to explain the situation very well - there are monsters, and there are hunters who kill the monsters. The action-based prose isn’t very exciting, and the ending is weak. There are much better books that deserve to be read.
December 5, 2021
A fantastic Novella, following a monster hunter and his apprentice. Cannot wait to continue with the series!
March 13, 2022
E
Enjoyed this book from start to finish, would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading action packed science fiction
Enjoyed this book from start to finish, would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading action packed science fiction
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