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The Winter Souls #3
A Crown as Sharp as Pines
I'm dreaming of a frightful Christmas...
The first thing that Patrolman Zane Cohen notices when he meets Helen Bell again in this new season is that she is not herself.
The libraries of the Volumes of Wisdom have been burned to ash. Believers of the Truth are disappearing across the snow globe. A Beast of the darkness is taking hostages and building his army in Winter. And Helen...
Helen sees it all unfolding in her dreams.
When the Volumes of Wisdom begin to whisper clues of something hidden in Winter that might turn the tides of the oncoming war, Helen finds herself trekking into the prickly pines and thundering songs of war drums in the Green Kingdom. She claims she's there as an emissary of the Three Kings of the East. But the true reason she's risked stepping into a kingdom of the verge of losing a deadly war...
Is to steal the Queen of the Pines garland crown right from atop her head.
The first thing that Patrolman Zane Cohen notices when he meets Helen Bell again in this new season is that she is not herself.
The libraries of the Volumes of Wisdom have been burned to ash. Believers of the Truth are disappearing across the snow globe. A Beast of the darkness is taking hostages and building his army in Winter. And Helen...
Helen sees it all unfolding in her dreams.
When the Volumes of Wisdom begin to whisper clues of something hidden in Winter that might turn the tides of the oncoming war, Helen finds herself trekking into the prickly pines and thundering songs of war drums in the Green Kingdom. She claims she's there as an emissary of the Three Kings of the East. But the true reason she's risked stepping into a kingdom of the verge of losing a deadly war...
Is to steal the Queen of the Pines garland crown right from atop her head.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2022
97 people are currently reading
5539 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Kropf
16 books891 followersJennifer Kropf spent her college years bored to death (nearly) in marketing and advertising classes, and graduated only to discover once and for all that her true passion is telling stories. She lives amidst lush Ontario farmland with her husband and three kids, reads obsessively, and writes even more obsessively. She thinks tea is gross and coffee is great and secretly wishes Peter Pan will show up on some cool summer evening and ask if she wants to visit Neverland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
September 28, 2024
This was so fun! It’s been a long time since I actually binge-read a book! The world of Winter is one of my most favorite fictional worlds and these characters are always a treat to follow along. I enjoyed all the twists and turns, exploring new places and revisiting old ones. The element of family was super important and touched my heart. I love how the author didn’t miss the opportunity to explore that more in this installment. If you enjoy books with fantasy elements, faith interwoven and a dose of sweet slow burn romance and friendship, give this series a try! Ugh, that cliffhanger though! 😭 I can’t wait for the finale!
*I receive an eArc from the publisher for a free review. All opinions are my own!*
*I receive an eArc from the publisher for a free review. All opinions are my own!*
June 7, 2024
I thought the ending of Season 3 of Shadowhunters was bad until I read this stupid book.
December 28, 2022
A Crown as Sharp as Pines is definitely
my favourite book in this series, and it's because of Kaley! I love her strength and her bond with Helen.
Introducing Kaley also meant we got to see more of Lucas and I really think his character come alive in this book which was fun. He's so cheeky and I enjoyes how he winds up Kaley.
I'm so glad we got to go to the Green Kingdom! I have been wanting to see it since we got to see the Red Kingdom in book 2.
It hurt my soul to see Helen suffer in this book! And then that ending of Kaley taking her memories 😭 I know it's for the best so Helen could heal but it was still so bittersweet. I do love the idea of Zane navigating the Trite world and trying to befriend Helen though so i guess it will work out! Bring on book 4 💚
my favourite book in this series, and it's because of Kaley! I love her strength and her bond with Helen.
Introducing Kaley also meant we got to see more of Lucas and I really think his character come alive in this book which was fun. He's so cheeky and I enjoyes how he winds up Kaley.
I'm so glad we got to go to the Green Kingdom! I have been wanting to see it since we got to see the Red Kingdom in book 2.
It hurt my soul to see Helen suffer in this book! And then that ending of Kaley taking her memories 😭 I know it's for the best so Helen could heal but it was still so bittersweet. I do love the idea of Zane navigating the Trite world and trying to befriend Helen though so i guess it will work out! Bring on book 4 💚
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2023
I expected this book to go differently. It’s a strangely more abstract entry in the Winter Souls series—and shorter—but still a lot of fun!
Zane, in particular, shines here. I loved his role from beginning to end. Helen, on the other hand, let me down a bit. I really wanted to see more of her growth since prior events, but her irrationality due to lack of sleep made her actions almost manic, and everything that happens herein is kind of her fault. I honestly wanted better than that from her.
Even so, Crown has some great moments, from touching interactions to new, lush settings. The Christian-themed allegories are *big* in this one, leaning hard into familiar scripture. It’s deeply beautiful at points.
I enjoy so many aspects of this book and the series as a whole. (Lucas is a treat!) That said, something was missing for me in this entry. Maybe it was Helen’s part (she really felt more like a spectator in this book). I also wanted to better understand the Queen of the Pines and her motivations. I hope the final book ties all the ends together and answers the many questions I have.
I love how this book ultimately ended (Zane’s choice), and I can’t wait to see how that plays out in A Beast as Dark as Night.
Zane, in particular, shines here. I loved his role from beginning to end. Helen, on the other hand, let me down a bit. I really wanted to see more of her growth since prior events, but her irrationality due to lack of sleep made her actions almost manic, and everything that happens herein is kind of her fault. I honestly wanted better than that from her.
Even so, Crown has some great moments, from touching interactions to new, lush settings. The Christian-themed allegories are *big* in this one, leaning hard into familiar scripture. It’s deeply beautiful at points.
I enjoy so many aspects of this book and the series as a whole. (Lucas is a treat!) That said, something was missing for me in this entry. Maybe it was Helen’s part (she really felt more like a spectator in this book). I also wanted to better understand the Queen of the Pines and her motivations. I hope the final book ties all the ends together and answers the many questions I have.
I love how this book ultimately ended (Zane’s choice), and I can’t wait to see how that plays out in A Beast as Dark as Night.
October 1, 2024
*4.75*
I finished this a few days ago but…WOW
So much craziness happened, and it’s such a different book. I loved all the symbolism that was brought in from the Bible. Some of my thoughts are muddled, but I really enjoyed it.
Lucas is amazing. So snarky and fun
I loved Kaley until the end when *redacted* but it’s ok(ish)
LOVE Zane. He’s the man.
Poor Helen. She goes through so much and sees so much. The ending may be good for her…but it’s stressful.
Content: minor violence, winter magic (it’s an allegory), maybe a kiss
I finished this a few days ago but…WOW
So much craziness happened, and it’s such a different book. I loved all the symbolism that was brought in from the Bible. Some of my thoughts are muddled, but I really enjoyed it.
Lucas is amazing. So snarky and fun
I loved Kaley until the end when *redacted* but it’s ok(ish)
LOVE Zane. He’s the man.
Poor Helen. She goes through so much and sees so much. The ending may be good for her…but it’s stressful.
Content: minor violence, winter magic (it’s an allegory), maybe a kiss
January 12, 2025
Is this my favorite book in this series? It might just be!😍
July 2, 2022
I've been reading this series from the start and really fell in love with the world and the characters. I did not expect this book to hit so many feels, but it did. Not sure I loved the fact it hit me so much (because I didn't want to be sad haha), but at the same time it's good writing if it does hit me in the feels.
I am really excited for the next book in this series, because I need more, I need to know more, I need to know how this story will continue.
Luckily it comes out in December, so I don't have to wait too long.
I am really excited for the next book in this series, because I need more, I need to know more, I need to know how this story will continue.
Luckily it comes out in December, so I don't have to wait too long.
May 29, 2022
I don't read many YA books but this Winter Souls series is addictive. It has really captivated my interest.
March 4, 2024
I’m love, love, LOVING this series!! So entertaining! So well done. Helen and Zane are wonderful, as are the slew of other characters. Plan to dive into the next one soon.
October 29, 2025
This was so good! The ending was sad tho and I need the next book now!
December 31, 2024
This is the kind of fantasy series the world needs. Beautiful, deep, unafraid of facing the dark, full of joy and sorrow and all freedom truth brings!
August 9, 2022
What a beautiful book! On all levels it is uplifting, deeply moving and even has some powerfully cathartic moments. I love this series and absolutely adore the world of Winter Kropf has created. It is fast becoming one of my favourite fantasy worlds of all time. It's a truly magical place and I'm so glad there will be yet another book set in this fabulous wintery dreamland.
The characters are so vibrant, they simply pop off the page and my heart bleeds with theirs, just as it hopes and despairs along with them. There is so much packed into this book it really steals my breath away. But personally, I would like to thank the author for her kind reminder about the toll of burnout and the deeply important message about taking care of oneself and taking time to breathe, rest and recuperate. As someone currently living the reality of needing sleep and rest after having just charged onwards for two and a half decades without a backward glance, I appreciate a young adult book that warns of the dangers of our current socially-driven attitude to "go-go-go". Far too many of us have been driven forward chasing after unimportant things and A Crown as Sharp as Pines is a beautiful reminder to stop, reassess and do what is right, not only morally, but also within the framework of our unique selves.
Thank you, Jennifer Kropf for yet another amazing book. I cannot wait for the next one
I received an advance review copy of this book and am providing my honest opinion of it.
The characters are so vibrant, they simply pop off the page and my heart bleeds with theirs, just as it hopes and despairs along with them. There is so much packed into this book it really steals my breath away. But personally, I would like to thank the author for her kind reminder about the toll of burnout and the deeply important message about taking care of oneself and taking time to breathe, rest and recuperate. As someone currently living the reality of needing sleep and rest after having just charged onwards for two and a half decades without a backward glance, I appreciate a young adult book that warns of the dangers of our current socially-driven attitude to "go-go-go". Far too many of us have been driven forward chasing after unimportant things and A Crown as Sharp as Pines is a beautiful reminder to stop, reassess and do what is right, not only morally, but also within the framework of our unique selves.
Thank you, Jennifer Kropf for yet another amazing book. I cannot wait for the next one
I received an advance review copy of this book and am providing my honest opinion of it.
April 26, 2022
Frostbitten Excellent!!
My review for Book two states that I was looking forward to seeing if Helen’s siblings would feature in future books of the series and wondered where Eliot disappeared to…this book fills in some of these mysteries!!
Helen’s sister Kaley is more involved in the story while Helen and Zane continue to try to understand and figure each other out. The struggles that Helen faced on a nightly basis or when she was overcome were so vivid that the reader could feel the darkness and wanted to help her. The reader could also feel the helplessness of the characters surrounding her in trying to come to a solution for her.
The fight between the royals throws up an unexpected twist which is heartbreaking yet beautiful. And something happens to Zane which was totally unexpected and it was interesting how he dealt with it…don’t think I would’ve been as brave!
The sounds, the colours and the smells are all so descriptive that the reader feels they are really there standing along side the characters! Well done!
A short story found at the end called Merrily, Merrily gives the reader the opportunity to witness what Zane was before his life as a Patrolman began….and the origin of the gems (book two) and how Zane’s mother treated him as a child/nearly teen are revealed.
My one fault find, which I previously remarked about in my review for Book one, is Zane’s use of a word that he uses even more frequently rather than less frequently as time goes on and I’m not comfortable with reading it - plenty of other great new words/sayings were used by the characters throughout the books and they made me smile.
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and this is my honest opinion - recommend this series so far!
My review for Book two states that I was looking forward to seeing if Helen’s siblings would feature in future books of the series and wondered where Eliot disappeared to…this book fills in some of these mysteries!!
Helen’s sister Kaley is more involved in the story while Helen and Zane continue to try to understand and figure each other out. The struggles that Helen faced on a nightly basis or when she was overcome were so vivid that the reader could feel the darkness and wanted to help her. The reader could also feel the helplessness of the characters surrounding her in trying to come to a solution for her.
The fight between the royals throws up an unexpected twist which is heartbreaking yet beautiful. And something happens to Zane which was totally unexpected and it was interesting how he dealt with it…don’t think I would’ve been as brave!
The sounds, the colours and the smells are all so descriptive that the reader feels they are really there standing along side the characters! Well done!
A short story found at the end called Merrily, Merrily gives the reader the opportunity to witness what Zane was before his life as a Patrolman began….and the origin of the gems (book two) and how Zane’s mother treated him as a child/nearly teen are revealed.
My one fault find, which I previously remarked about in my review for Book one, is Zane’s use of a word that he uses even more frequently rather than less frequently as time goes on and I’m not comfortable with reading it - plenty of other great new words/sayings were used by the characters throughout the books and they made me smile.
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and this is my honest opinion - recommend this series so far!
May 2, 2023
wtfwtfwtf HVALA BOGU PA VEC IMAM SLJEDECI DIO JER BIH SE UBILA DA NAKON OVAKVOG KRAJA MORAM CEKAT
May 18, 2022
“That's how faith works though. Even just a spark is enough to shatter the darkness when it's got a hold on you.”
I read this in mind that this will be the final book since I thought it's gonna be a trilogy. I am surprised to see that things are far from over and new characters get thrown into the story as well.
The writing style is as gorgeous as the first two books, creating fantastic world building and wonderful characters.
The pacing is a bit slow for me in the middle, but I'm still able to enjoy this story.
I really love Helen's sister character, Kaley. I adore her strong love for her sister and her witty banter with Lucas which liven up the story. I'd love to see more of them.
Helen is not herself, with the darkness keeps bothering her to the point where she feels so exhausted which sadden me. It also disrupt her relationship with Zane. I'm still rooting for them and wish them a happy ending at the end of this journey.
Overall, it's a great addition to The Winter Souls series. Introducing new characters with new POV as well which is a nice touch with an ending that makes you can't wait to read the next book!
Don't miss to read the short story at the end of this book titled, Merrily, Merrily. It's a short story of Zane before he become a Patrolman.
Actual rating: 3.5⭐
Special thanks to Jennifer Kropf and Winterwood Books Club for sending me an e-ARC of this book! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I read this in mind that this will be the final book since I thought it's gonna be a trilogy. I am surprised to see that things are far from over and new characters get thrown into the story as well.
The writing style is as gorgeous as the first two books, creating fantastic world building and wonderful characters.
The pacing is a bit slow for me in the middle, but I'm still able to enjoy this story.
I really love Helen's sister character, Kaley. I adore her strong love for her sister and her witty banter with Lucas which liven up the story. I'd love to see more of them.
Helen is not herself, with the darkness keeps bothering her to the point where she feels so exhausted which sadden me. It also disrupt her relationship with Zane. I'm still rooting for them and wish them a happy ending at the end of this journey.
Overall, it's a great addition to The Winter Souls series. Introducing new characters with new POV as well which is a nice touch with an ending that makes you can't wait to read the next book!
Don't miss to read the short story at the end of this book titled, Merrily, Merrily. It's a short story of Zane before he become a Patrolman.
Actual rating: 3.5⭐
Special thanks to Jennifer Kropf and Winterwood Books Club for sending me an e-ARC of this book! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 22, 2022
A nice 3rd instalment, eagerly waiting for book 4 in Autumn.
This is a more melancholy book as Helen, the MC struggles with her role as savior & with health issues (letting darkness in as a result of insomnia & worrying). There are still loads of adventures with characters familiar from the orevious 2 books. Loved the time pocket where you can go in and read books for four months and come out the next day in uour own world. The changing of the guards from Helen to her sister Kayley was unexpected, but made sense. Love Kalyey’s no nonsense attitude & her handling that shotgun! Also love Lucas’ cheeky flirting - hoping for a love story there. I do keep rooting for Helen & Zane, too, especially after Kaley’s wish.
The rhythm & beat of the syntax of these stories reminds me of fairytales of old. I love the colourful cusswords - pinespittle, kingsblood, ragnashuck, mother of pearl - sounds like good old balderdash and fiddlesticks, you know.
There’s a free short story called Merrily, Merrilly at the end of the book which gives you Zane’s backstory with the sea witch.
Recommended for lovers of YA Christmassy action-adventure, myths & legends, christian romance and definitely read books 1&2 before.
This is a more melancholy book as Helen, the MC struggles with her role as savior & with health issues (letting darkness in as a result of insomnia & worrying). There are still loads of adventures with characters familiar from the orevious 2 books. Loved the time pocket where you can go in and read books for four months and come out the next day in uour own world. The changing of the guards from Helen to her sister Kayley was unexpected, but made sense. Love Kalyey’s no nonsense attitude & her handling that shotgun! Also love Lucas’ cheeky flirting - hoping for a love story there. I do keep rooting for Helen & Zane, too, especially after Kaley’s wish.
The rhythm & beat of the syntax of these stories reminds me of fairytales of old. I love the colourful cusswords - pinespittle, kingsblood, ragnashuck, mother of pearl - sounds like good old balderdash and fiddlesticks, you know.
There’s a free short story called Merrily, Merrilly at the end of the book which gives you Zane’s backstory with the sea witch.
Recommended for lovers of YA Christmassy action-adventure, myths & legends, christian romance and definitely read books 1&2 before.
May 18, 2022
Thanks to @winterhousepublishing for an eARC of this book in return for an honest review.
A Crown as Sharp as Pines is the third book in the Winter Souls series. To say I’ve been patiently waiting for the intersects to open up once again and for us to cross into the fascinating world of Winter, would be an understatement!
The turmoil only continues to grow in Winter and within our heroine Helen. Her relationship with Zane continues to deepen, while other characters move to the forefront of the action. Kropf has once again masterfully pulled her readers into a world that they will never want to leave.
I anxiously await for the whistle of the train and the mouth-watering aroma rising from a cup of cocoa to say that the intersect has opened, and I can cross over to the world of Winter once again.
A Crown as Sharp as Pines is the third book in the Winter Souls series. To say I’ve been patiently waiting for the intersects to open up once again and for us to cross into the fascinating world of Winter, would be an understatement!
The turmoil only continues to grow in Winter and within our heroine Helen. Her relationship with Zane continues to deepen, while other characters move to the forefront of the action. Kropf has once again masterfully pulled her readers into a world that they will never want to leave.
I anxiously await for the whistle of the train and the mouth-watering aroma rising from a cup of cocoa to say that the intersect has opened, and I can cross over to the world of Winter once again.
June 5, 2022
It was so good to revisit this world and it’s characters again! I was really excited to jump back into Helen’s story and travel back to Winter with her. These characters have made their way into my heart and I was very happy to see them again as well as get to know a few new characters too.
This story was epic and fast-paced just as the other two in the series. I felt like this was a bit sadder than the others. It had a different feel to it which I think was relevant since Helen wasn’t exactly herself.
I love these characters! Zane is probably my favorite. He’s such a complex character and I love him! I’m still shipping him and Helen 100%. I love watching their relationship grow.
I really enjoyed getting to know Kaley! And Lucas is the funnest guy. I just love him. Definitely shipping those two. They’re adorable. ❤️
This world is just so fun. It’s a wintery dream! This series would be a really good one to read in winter because there’s all the coziness of winter in here. Oh, and this book really made me want chocolate. Have chocolate on hand when you read this book. Actually, just have sweets on hand because it will make you want some.
Again, my favorite part of this series is the allegory. I love allegories and metaphors so I love this aspect of the story so much!
To sum it up, this was a great third book to the series. I’m super excited for the fourth book.😍
If you love book series with cozy winter vibes, plenty of action, and well-written allegories, this series has all of that. Also if you’re a fan of the Narnia series, this series definitely gives off Narnia vibes!
*Thank you to the author and publisher for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for a review! All opinions are my own.
This story was epic and fast-paced just as the other two in the series. I felt like this was a bit sadder than the others. It had a different feel to it which I think was relevant since Helen wasn’t exactly herself.
I love these characters! Zane is probably my favorite. He’s such a complex character and I love him! I’m still shipping him and Helen 100%. I love watching their relationship grow.
I really enjoyed getting to know Kaley! And Lucas is the funnest guy. I just love him. Definitely shipping those two. They’re adorable. ❤️
This world is just so fun. It’s a wintery dream! This series would be a really good one to read in winter because there’s all the coziness of winter in here. Oh, and this book really made me want chocolate. Have chocolate on hand when you read this book. Actually, just have sweets on hand because it will make you want some.
Again, my favorite part of this series is the allegory. I love allegories and metaphors so I love this aspect of the story so much!
To sum it up, this was a great third book to the series. I’m super excited for the fourth book.😍
If you love book series with cozy winter vibes, plenty of action, and well-written allegories, this series has all of that. Also if you’re a fan of the Narnia series, this series definitely gives off Narnia vibes!
*Thank you to the author and publisher for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for a review! All opinions are my own.
May 11, 2022
So unexpected and complex, is the third book of the Winter Souls Series. I love the repeated refrain, "a time or three" and other expressions demonstrating that this isn't our world, but another very nearby. Kropf continues to tell an excellent tale in this third installment; we see how obsessed (unhinged?) Helen has become in her determination to 'solve' the problems of Winter. Kaley has more action in the story, along with some other familiar characters, and some brand-new ones.
Vivid descriptions of mouth-watering sweets and surroundings fill the book and honestly, gave me the munchies while I was reading.
Can't wait for book 4!
This also included a bonus story at the end - be sure to read the book all the way to the finish.
I received an ARC; this is my honest review.
Vivid descriptions of mouth-watering sweets and surroundings fill the book and honestly, gave me the munchies while I was reading.
Can't wait for book 4!
This also included a bonus story at the end - be sure to read the book all the way to the finish.
I received an ARC; this is my honest review.
December 26, 2022
This series just keeps getting better and better. Why haven't I read Kropf before!? She writes amazing stories that really transport you into a new, exciting world that honestly you won't want to leave. There is adventure everywhere! In all honesty, I don't want this to end. These are books I can see myself reading over and over and over again.
The character growth continues and frankly is done perfectly. Just when I think Helen is at a good spot, Kropf changes my mind and in a good way and makes her even better. If you're looking for a good winter series, then this is it my friends. I do not recommend reading as a stand alone - start with book one so you know exactly what's going on. I think you'll really enjoy it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The character growth continues and frankly is done perfectly. Just when I think Helen is at a good spot, Kropf changes my mind and in a good way and makes her even better. If you're looking for a good winter series, then this is it my friends. I do not recommend reading as a stand alone - start with book one so you know exactly what's going on. I think you'll really enjoy it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 8, 2025
SO GOOD!! As always!!! I expected nothing less!!! first book of the series i cried while reading... guys... I had the absolute most jaw dropping moment of all time... I need you guys to comment and tell if you have read this or if your going to bc again I cant not even explain how GOOD this series is!!! AGAIN, PPS PLS PLS PLS READ!!!!!!!
May 18, 2022
I love the descriptions as always. The vocabulary is just as astonishing as it was in the previous books. I love the development of the characters. I'm looking forward for the next book with that cliffhanger at the end. I also really appreciated the short story at the end. I feel I understand way more Zane's character.
May 19, 2022
I didn’t get a chance to get caught up in the series, but this book was amazing. I love the world that the author built. The ending cliffhanger leaves you ready to for the next book. I know I will read books 1 and 2 and then re-read this one!
May 23, 2022
Another thoroughly enjoyable novel from Jennifer Kropf! This third instalment in the Winter saga was fast paced and whimsical, with the distinct blend of playfulness and intensity we’ve come to expect and love in this series. I was hoping to see more of Kaley and Emily in this novel, and I was not disappointed. I especially enjoyed the novella included at the end where the reader gets a glimpse into Zane’s childhood. Now I want to re-read the first two in light of what I’ve learned, both about Zane and his mysterious estranged mother. Five stars!
July 12, 2023
It's building to something that's going to be epic and amazing. The third installment of this series was really good.
October 12, 2023
Fun and quick. A good 3rd in the series, with solid plot lines and all the best characters.
December 14, 2023
"That's how faith works though. Even just a spark is enough to shatter the darkness when it's got a hold on you."
❤️
❤️
March 26, 2024
Current ranking pt2>pt3>pt1
Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews