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Blade of Ice #1
Rise of a Warrior
A sheltered princess. The silent head of her guard. An icy world of forbidden desires, treacherous secrets, and mortal danger.
Every second of my life has been leading up to the moment I'm forced into marriage with the king of a neighboring land. It is my duty to secure an alliance, to be seen and not heard, and to birth an heir.
But my heart has always belonged to another.
Fort is everything my family forbids me from wanting.
He's lethal. A blood-stained blade rather than a shield to hide behind. Yet he watches my every move. An unshakable shadow that eliminates threats before they truly exist.
When my world crumbles around me, it's Fort left standing. Together, we must flee the only place I've ever known, so I can survive long enough to unite a now broken realm.
The longer we're together, though, the hotter the flame between us burns. And when we finally give in, I know there's no turning back.
Even if is my future husband I must beg to aid us in this fight.
Passion.
Treachery.
Hatred.
Death.
In this twisted war for the throne, I have discovered it's my blood that is the prize to be won. And those hunting me will not stop until the final Navalis Royal has fallen.
The Blade of Ice series is best enjoyed in the following order:
Book #1: Rise of a Warrior
Book #2: Fall of an Empire
Book #3: Birth of a Queen
The first in a pulse-pounding fantasy romance that is perfect for anyone who loves epic adventure, a massive world, and an incredible love story that defies all odds.
Grab your copy of Rise of a Warrior and get ready for an adventure today!
NOTE: This is a steamy, on-page romance intended for mature readers.
Every second of my life has been leading up to the moment I'm forced into marriage with the king of a neighboring land. It is my duty to secure an alliance, to be seen and not heard, and to birth an heir.
But my heart has always belonged to another.
Fort is everything my family forbids me from wanting.
He's lethal. A blood-stained blade rather than a shield to hide behind. Yet he watches my every move. An unshakable shadow that eliminates threats before they truly exist.
When my world crumbles around me, it's Fort left standing. Together, we must flee the only place I've ever known, so I can survive long enough to unite a now broken realm.
The longer we're together, though, the hotter the flame between us burns. And when we finally give in, I know there's no turning back.
Even if is my future husband I must beg to aid us in this fight.
Passion.
Treachery.
Hatred.
Death.
In this twisted war for the throne, I have discovered it's my blood that is the prize to be won. And those hunting me will not stop until the final Navalis Royal has fallen.
The Blade of Ice series is best enjoyed in the following order:
Book #1: Rise of a Warrior
Book #2: Fall of an Empire
Book #3: Birth of a Queen
The first in a pulse-pounding fantasy romance that is perfect for anyone who loves epic adventure, a massive world, and an incredible love story that defies all odds.
Grab your copy of Rise of a Warrior and get ready for an adventure today!
NOTE: This is a steamy, on-page romance intended for mature readers.
502 pages, ebook
First published April 25, 2023
45 people are currently reading
3691 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Wayne
84 books693 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author of steamy PNR and fantasy romance.
Ever since my grandmother first handed me a Nora Roberts novel, I KNEW I wanted to write romance.
I love love. Crave it. For me, genre doesn't matter as long as there is a beautifully epic love story woven into the storyline.
Which is exactly why I chose to write across so many genres. Paranormal, fantasy, contemporary, suspense...no matter which of my books you choose you always know what you're getting: a love story for the ages.
And before I was an author, I was a reader! Please be sure to follow me here, or add me as a friend! I love to connect!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 30, 2023
Stopped at 58%; story lacks emotional nuance
Although the author provides a warning that the book has profanity and sex scenes, it does not mean that they are well used. Too many times the author grabs a handy expression that does not fit with the story. The story is supposedly fantasy set in a fictional snowy kingdom, yet the protagonists refer to eucalyptus, the eye of the storm, nirvana, etc., and the f-bomb may as well be used like, you know, like a filler, like whatever. Ugh. And during the sex scenes, it’s not “hot” but comes across as crass.
The female protagonist too easily slips from clueless sheltered princess to a bloodthirsty, sex-starved killer. I’m just not buying it. It’s also annoying that there’s a slew of secondary characters with time on the page that require reader investment only to be killed off rather expediently by a mysterious enemy that certainly needs more foreshadowing and development.
The male protagonist showed up at the age of seven, and was already a trained killer who bested the competition? That’s the same age as a first grader. Not buying this, either.
The protagonists head off to garner support from a loser, knowing he’ll likely not support them. Why??
Traveling through the snow leaves footprints that are easy to follow, even if someone is running fast. There needs to be some wind to hide their trail.
The novel needs more editing and polishing. There are spelling errors, punctuation problems, redundant word choices (arms banded around), and moments that require rereading. Was the horse in the house? There are also too many ideas dropped in conveniently that need to be mentioned sooner so they don’t seem like afterthoughts. The hero just happens to have a green scarf?
The book cover art is gorgeous, though.
Although the author provides a warning that the book has profanity and sex scenes, it does not mean that they are well used. Too many times the author grabs a handy expression that does not fit with the story. The story is supposedly fantasy set in a fictional snowy kingdom, yet the protagonists refer to eucalyptus, the eye of the storm, nirvana, etc., and the f-bomb may as well be used like, you know, like a filler, like whatever. Ugh. And during the sex scenes, it’s not “hot” but comes across as crass.
The female protagonist too easily slips from clueless sheltered princess to a bloodthirsty, sex-starved killer. I’m just not buying it. It’s also annoying that there’s a slew of secondary characters with time on the page that require reader investment only to be killed off rather expediently by a mysterious enemy that certainly needs more foreshadowing and development.
The male protagonist showed up at the age of seven, and was already a trained killer who bested the competition? That’s the same age as a first grader. Not buying this, either.
The protagonists head off to garner support from a loser, knowing he’ll likely not support them. Why??
Traveling through the snow leaves footprints that are easy to follow, even if someone is running fast. There needs to be some wind to hide their trail.
The novel needs more editing and polishing. There are spelling errors, punctuation problems, redundant word choices (arms banded around), and moments that require rereading. Was the horse in the house? There are also too many ideas dropped in conveniently that need to be mentioned sooner so they don’t seem like afterthoughts. The hero just happens to have a green scarf?
The book cover art is gorgeous, though.
April 26, 2023
I have been drooling over this cover for months and keep clicking on it but low and behold I’d already preordered. 🤭
Now I can gush over my favorite tropes that appear here…
🗡️ Royal and guard
🤫 hidden identity
❤️ sharing body heat to survive
🛏️ only one bed
🛁 tub scene
🐴 one horse
🤕 hurt/comfort, bandaging
☠️ touch her and…
So this is a brand new dark fantasy romance that will leave you on the edge of your seat and full of all the glorious angst as the princess is forced to endure the hardest, deadliest nightmares of her life.
I actually had to ‘cheat’ and skip to the end! 🙈
A m/f dark fantasy romance that packs a punch. So many twists and trials. Lots of creatures of legends come to light. Grabbed me from page one and I couldn’t put it down! And that ending….. 😱 I’m a glutton for a good cliffhanger and this one was soooooo good!
Dual povs told in first person.
Main couple -
Fort - male, captain of the guard
Carleah - princess
Steam- oh the build up and denial before the payoff was delicious. Hot
Trigger- this is a dark romance with ☠️, battle, mind manipulation and the elves/Tenebris are nasty business
Now I can gush over my favorite tropes that appear here…
🗡️ Royal and guard
🤫 hidden identity
❤️ sharing body heat to survive
🛏️ only one bed
🛁 tub scene
🐴 one horse
🤕 hurt/comfort, bandaging
☠️ touch her and…
So this is a brand new dark fantasy romance that will leave you on the edge of your seat and full of all the glorious angst as the princess is forced to endure the hardest, deadliest nightmares of her life.
I actually had to ‘cheat’ and skip to the end! 🙈
A m/f dark fantasy romance that packs a punch. So many twists and trials. Lots of creatures of legends come to light. Grabbed me from page one and I couldn’t put it down! And that ending….. 😱 I’m a glutton for a good cliffhanger and this one was soooooo good!
Dual povs told in first person.
Main couple -
Fort - male, captain of the guard
Carleah - princess
Steam- oh the build up and denial before the payoff was delicious. Hot
Trigger- this is a dark romance with ☠️, battle, mind manipulation and the elves/Tenebris are nasty business
April 13, 2023
Every time I start a Jessica book I have high expectations and I'm never disappointed.
I loved this book from beginning to end, the character development, world building and plot are all exceptional.
I need the next book!
I loved this book from beginning to end, the character development, world building and plot are all exceptional.
I need the next book!
April 11, 2023
I love this book! Strong main characters that grow with the tasks that face them. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
August 15, 2023
First off I would like to say that Jessica Wayne is an absolute genius when it comes to writing fantasy and romance. The world building and detailed descriptions made me feel like I was in the book itself. Not only that but it is very character driven which I liked a lot. The mfc has a lot of growth as a person throughout the book. However I will say that in the beginning it was very fast paced in my opinion. It felt like a lot of things were happening too fast but then the story began to even out. Overall I enjoyed this book very much and definitely recommend it!
August 5, 2023
This is book one of the Blade of Ice series and the main characters are Carleah Rossingol, Princess of Navalis, and the youngest child of the current king and queen, and Fort, the head of the king’s guard and taken in by the king as an eight year old found wandering in the wilds and apparently mute from whatever he had experienced. Carleah has four older brothers, Alex, Bowman, Diedrich and Ethan, but is still treated as a child by them, as does everyone else. She is the first female born to the Navalis royal family in over two millennia. Now she is being prepared to marry the next king of Soreno, one of their allies and bring the two realms into a stronger alliance, no matter what she wants. She has been in love or lust for Fort for years, with him being her friend as small children, but now more distant. He has thought of her differently for the last two years after stopping her from being taken by an amorous young man, with her not even realising she was in danger. He has been her secret shadow for the years since, to keep her safe from all the enemies who want her for their own use. Her rarity is sought after and some believe in a prophecy about her, not that he knew of this.
When word of a dangerous enemy comes, her brother Alex and Fort go to parlay with them, along with a small number of guards, only for the enemy to disregard the honour of parlay and attack. Fort is the only survivor and brings the body of her brother home with him, leaving Carleah bereft. Soon the enemy come for the palace of Navlis and she is left no other choice but to run for her life, with the only man she can trust, Fort. He is a fighter like no other, faster, stronger, and bigger than any other she has ever seen, easily able to defeat even her well trained brothers. Nothing is known of his origin and since he has never spoken, he has been taken as is and became a part of her family. All she can think of is to head to Soreno and her future husband, to ask for their help, but Fort doesn’t think much of this man, nor that he would be willing to send their army to help Navalis, more that he would take over in his own name! Their journey of escape is not an easy one and they must travel through the frightening Phantom, an area covered in a thick mist that stops you from even seeing your hand in front of your face and even sounds are lost.
On the other side is the land of the Nemoregno and No Man’s Land, places even more dangerous than the Phantom. But without a ship they have no other options. The history Carleah knows of her lands and what caused the other realms to separate, is only what she has been told and she is about to find out that the legends of giants, elves and strange creatures are more than just children’s stories! They fall into danger as soon as they are through the Phantom, with Fort having revealed to her the true danger they are facing there and how he knows of it all. Fort is faced with a pit from which most do not survive and Carleah is only able to survive due to the help of a stranger and his winged beast Shadow, who pull her from it. She will have many more trials to face and neither will appreciate the manner in which they are done and the lies they are constantly told. If she passes the trials then she will have a ready made army on her side, but will need many more to fight against the abnormally strong Tenebris army. Carleah has gone from a spoilt princess unable to do anything much without being watched at every moment, to now having to fight for her very life and see some terrifying sights. Only her love for the man at her side and his solid presence, keeps her going and prepared to fight for her homeland. A fascinating read, which I read through in one go, going from a princess unhappy with an arranged marriage to an ally far away, to running for her life and having to fight to even survive. She wants revenge on her enemy for what they have done to her family and her people, and is becoming the warrior queen of prophecy that many want to twist to their own purpose. I can’t wait to read the next in the series after the shock at the end of this one. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
When word of a dangerous enemy comes, her brother Alex and Fort go to parlay with them, along with a small number of guards, only for the enemy to disregard the honour of parlay and attack. Fort is the only survivor and brings the body of her brother home with him, leaving Carleah bereft. Soon the enemy come for the palace of Navlis and she is left no other choice but to run for her life, with the only man she can trust, Fort. He is a fighter like no other, faster, stronger, and bigger than any other she has ever seen, easily able to defeat even her well trained brothers. Nothing is known of his origin and since he has never spoken, he has been taken as is and became a part of her family. All she can think of is to head to Soreno and her future husband, to ask for their help, but Fort doesn’t think much of this man, nor that he would be willing to send their army to help Navalis, more that he would take over in his own name! Their journey of escape is not an easy one and they must travel through the frightening Phantom, an area covered in a thick mist that stops you from even seeing your hand in front of your face and even sounds are lost.
On the other side is the land of the Nemoregno and No Man’s Land, places even more dangerous than the Phantom. But without a ship they have no other options. The history Carleah knows of her lands and what caused the other realms to separate, is only what she has been told and she is about to find out that the legends of giants, elves and strange creatures are more than just children’s stories! They fall into danger as soon as they are through the Phantom, with Fort having revealed to her the true danger they are facing there and how he knows of it all. Fort is faced with a pit from which most do not survive and Carleah is only able to survive due to the help of a stranger and his winged beast Shadow, who pull her from it. She will have many more trials to face and neither will appreciate the manner in which they are done and the lies they are constantly told. If she passes the trials then she will have a ready made army on her side, but will need many more to fight against the abnormally strong Tenebris army. Carleah has gone from a spoilt princess unable to do anything much without being watched at every moment, to now having to fight for her very life and see some terrifying sights. Only her love for the man at her side and his solid presence, keeps her going and prepared to fight for her homeland. A fascinating read, which I read through in one go, going from a princess unhappy with an arranged marriage to an ally far away, to running for her life and having to fight to even survive. She wants revenge on her enemy for what they have done to her family and her people, and is becoming the warrior queen of prophecy that many want to twist to their own purpose. I can’t wait to read the next in the series after the shock at the end of this one. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
May 12, 2023
The book started off well and then I got bored. I started skimming to the end.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
S
P
O
I
L
E
R
S
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First, the cover of the book has the heroine riding a flying horse. The flying horse doesn't show up until the last 25% of the book and is barely in the book.
The heroine's entire family is slaughtered. She survives along with the head of the Guard. He has never spoken since he was taken in by the royal family at age 9. But surprise! The hero has been able to talk all along. He just didn't want to answer questions about his previous life. So he pretended not to talk for decades.
So the first part of the book is her not wanting to go through with her arranged marriage. She talks to her father, the King, and he says she has to. Even though she has feelings for the head of the palace guard. So she and the guard make out before he goes on a dangerous mission. He comes back carrying the body of her dead brother.
Then the Terebris (bad guys) attack the palace and kill everyone in it. So you have pages of traveling through the wilderness and them talking to each other. They get to a turn. She tells the head of the town about the massacre. That's it. Nobody does anything. Nobody warns other towns or closes the town gates, or stars evacuating people.
The next day the bad guys attack the town and she refuses to flee. She says they have to hold them off so they can get the civilians to safety. So they battle, she survives. The remaining survivors of the town plan to hide in the hills.
Her plan is to beg her fiance for soldiers. Knowing that she is now the Queen and will not be moving to his kingdom to marry him. The guard tells her he won't help her, not without taking over the kingdom. She has no other plan.
She and the hero are captured by his evil family trying to travel to her fiance. A winged horse rescues her along with an elf. They don't rescue her guard and now-lover. They tell her he is dead. But he is alive and the winged horse goes back to rescue him.
Now they are both staying with the elves. Surprise! The elves have been watching her and her kingdom for thousands of years. But nobody knows they exist. Oh, and the royal family died because no elves were watching at that moment, they were off checking on the sleeping giants.
At this point, the elves think she is part of a prophecy and is meant to lead them in battle. She has never heard of this prophecy and has no experience leading an army. Unlike the elves who live thousands of years and have battled giants before.
She has to go through 4 trials to prove she is the real Queen. The trials are basically mind magic where she thinks things are real, but they aren't. In the last trial they shoot her with an arrow so it feels real. Great plan, shoot the person in the prophecy on purpose.
At the end of the book, the elves have decided she is the queen in the prophecy and their armies will go to take back her kingdom for her. She is supposed to go find a healer for her guard/love who was injured as the healer died in the most recent battle.
The last line of the book is her seeing her dead brother, Bowman, and thinking he's alive. Is he really alive? Or is this another "trial"? We don't know, that's how the book ends.
I thought the book really dragged in places. I also didn't like the hero very much. He ignored her for years while being in love with her and never spoke, even though he could talk.
The heroine kept getting kidnapped or attacked.
The romance was steamy but way in the background of the book. The focus was on "who's trying to kill us now" and "how will we get out of this".
I do not plan to read further in this series.
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,end spoilers
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
S
P
O
I
L
E
R
S
................................................
First, the cover of the book has the heroine riding a flying horse. The flying horse doesn't show up until the last 25% of the book and is barely in the book.
The heroine's entire family is slaughtered. She survives along with the head of the Guard. He has never spoken since he was taken in by the royal family at age 9. But surprise! The hero has been able to talk all along. He just didn't want to answer questions about his previous life. So he pretended not to talk for decades.
So the first part of the book is her not wanting to go through with her arranged marriage. She talks to her father, the King, and he says she has to. Even though she has feelings for the head of the palace guard. So she and the guard make out before he goes on a dangerous mission. He comes back carrying the body of her dead brother.
Then the Terebris (bad guys) attack the palace and kill everyone in it. So you have pages of traveling through the wilderness and them talking to each other. They get to a turn. She tells the head of the town about the massacre. That's it. Nobody does anything. Nobody warns other towns or closes the town gates, or stars evacuating people.
The next day the bad guys attack the town and she refuses to flee. She says they have to hold them off so they can get the civilians to safety. So they battle, she survives. The remaining survivors of the town plan to hide in the hills.
Her plan is to beg her fiance for soldiers. Knowing that she is now the Queen and will not be moving to his kingdom to marry him. The guard tells her he won't help her, not without taking over the kingdom. She has no other plan.
She and the hero are captured by his evil family trying to travel to her fiance. A winged horse rescues her along with an elf. They don't rescue her guard and now-lover. They tell her he is dead. But he is alive and the winged horse goes back to rescue him.
Now they are both staying with the elves. Surprise! The elves have been watching her and her kingdom for thousands of years. But nobody knows they exist. Oh, and the royal family died because no elves were watching at that moment, they were off checking on the sleeping giants.
At this point, the elves think she is part of a prophecy and is meant to lead them in battle. She has never heard of this prophecy and has no experience leading an army. Unlike the elves who live thousands of years and have battled giants before.
She has to go through 4 trials to prove she is the real Queen. The trials are basically mind magic where she thinks things are real, but they aren't. In the last trial they shoot her with an arrow so it feels real. Great plan, shoot the person in the prophecy on purpose.
At the end of the book, the elves have decided she is the queen in the prophecy and their armies will go to take back her kingdom for her. She is supposed to go find a healer for her guard/love who was injured as the healer died in the most recent battle.
The last line of the book is her seeing her dead brother, Bowman, and thinking he's alive. Is he really alive? Or is this another "trial"? We don't know, that's how the book ends.
I thought the book really dragged in places. I also didn't like the hero very much. He ignored her for years while being in love with her and never spoke, even though he could talk.
The heroine kept getting kidnapped or attacked.
The romance was steamy but way in the background of the book. The focus was on "who's trying to kill us now" and "how will we get out of this".
I do not plan to read further in this series.
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,end spoilers
April 27, 2023
Carleah princess of Narvalis is the only daughter born to the royal family in century's. With her set to marry a prince but has all the feels for another Fort. Fort is a silent worrier for the king, but for years has fought his feelings for her. When her family is slaughter she and fort make it out and decide to flee. When they start their journey they must find away to get an army to avenge all that have slaughter. With each place the come to they have to be cautious and look for the Tenebris army. When they get to the elves they start to learn the truth about the past and who she might be. With the elven trials she must face to see to if she is the true queen. Will she pass or fail? Will her and Fort survive what they must?
Holy cow what a mind blowing, emotional, action packed read that will make you laugh,cry, and will pull you in and won't let go. This is more than a five star read that will keep you on the edge of your seat and will have you wanting more, with and ending that will blow your mind. My favorite read this year and I can't wait for the next.
Holy cow what a mind blowing, emotional, action packed read that will make you laugh,cry, and will pull you in and won't let go. This is more than a five star read that will keep you on the edge of your seat and will have you wanting more, with and ending that will blow your mind. My favorite read this year and I can't wait for the next.
June 26, 2023
I was given a free copy of this book and I decided to give it an honest review.
Usually, I find the young, naive heroine to be thoroughly annoying. I read these stories for the male protagonist, who is competent and kicks rear ends and is just honorable enough to put his life on the line to save her. I don't find Carleah annoying. Yes, she is naive, but she doesn't want to be. She has learned what she can on the side, but she wants to continue learning and growing. Her family conspires against her, to keep her ignorant and useless in the name of protecting her. While I kind of like Carleah, I love Fort. Fort know how to handle himself, has the requisite tragic back story, and is completely devoted to Carleah. I enjoyed how the author kept me on my toes by revealing things little by little, showing me that I did not have all the facts and was resting on preconceived notions. I will definitely keep a look out for the next book in the series.
Usually, I find the young, naive heroine to be thoroughly annoying. I read these stories for the male protagonist, who is competent and kicks rear ends and is just honorable enough to put his life on the line to save her. I don't find Carleah annoying. Yes, she is naive, but she doesn't want to be. She has learned what she can on the side, but she wants to continue learning and growing. Her family conspires against her, to keep her ignorant and useless in the name of protecting her. While I kind of like Carleah, I love Fort. Fort know how to handle himself, has the requisite tragic back story, and is completely devoted to Carleah. I enjoyed how the author kept me on my toes by revealing things little by little, showing me that I did not have all the facts and was resting on preconceived notions. I will definitely keep a look out for the next book in the series.
June 29, 2023
This book is a captivating read and is packed with tons of action. This plot is an enchanting one and I was amazed by it.
This bewitching tale is loaded with mystery and suspense and there is not a dull moment in it. I was second-guessing myself throughout it.
There is so much to love in this book, and the main characters are one of them. Carleah and Fort are the main ones. They are fascinating, and their love and chemistry for one another are palpable throughout it.
One of my favourite parts of this story is the celebration and discovery of Carleah's strong spirit and leadership.
The narrative of this plot is compelling and gripping, and I cannot wait to read the continuation of this magical plot!
I highly recommend it to everyone into fantasy romance!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This bewitching tale is loaded with mystery and suspense and there is not a dull moment in it. I was second-guessing myself throughout it.
There is so much to love in this book, and the main characters are one of them. Carleah and Fort are the main ones. They are fascinating, and their love and chemistry for one another are palpable throughout it.
One of my favourite parts of this story is the celebration and discovery of Carleah's strong spirit and leadership.
The narrative of this plot is compelling and gripping, and I cannot wait to read the continuation of this magical plot!
I highly recommend it to everyone into fantasy romance!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2023
If you enjoy stories with a good fantasy plot, especially where the FMC's of royal descent, has her entire family killed and vows for revenge alongside her love interest, then yes, this would be an entertaining read for you. I'd have rather watched this, then to read it because while there was romance, it wasn't as intense as the other ongoing situations.
The romance turned into insta-love quickly, that being the MCs already had feelings for each other from Chapter One, so if you know me, I'm usually uninterested in those type of romances. I do so prefer and enemies to lovers or something more...savage.
Otherwise, I'm not a connoisseur of epic fantasy romances, so you'll have to take my word at 50-50 for this. I'm not planning to continue the series, though I'm fairly certain it ends in a cliffy that will have you eager to jump to Book 2 seeing as how the plot thickens.
The romance turned into insta-love quickly, that being the MCs already had feelings for each other from Chapter One, so if you know me, I'm usually uninterested in those type of romances. I do so prefer and enemies to lovers or something more...savage.
Otherwise, I'm not a connoisseur of epic fantasy romances, so you'll have to take my word at 50-50 for this. I'm not planning to continue the series, though I'm fairly certain it ends in a cliffy that will have you eager to jump to Book 2 seeing as how the plot thickens.
April 24, 2023
Rise of a Warrior, the initial installment in Jessica Wayne's Blade of Ice Series, lays the groundwork for what I anticipate will be a truly magnificent collection. The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with magic, supernatural creatures, murder, adventure, danger, intrigue, subterfuge, romance and some juicy sex scenes. The writing is so superb that you can all but smell the blood and hear the clashing of the blades on the battlefield. The characters are well developed and engaging. Carleah and Fort are fantastic leads, and their relationship is so complex. Overall, Rise of a Warrior is definitely a book not to be missed. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment to see where Carleah's adventure takes her!
April 25, 2023
Such an intriguing world and fantastic start to a new series! Carleah is launched into survival mode with the only known survivor of her court as they travel through dangerous territories to regroup and find allies to help regain her kingdom. Carleah was raised in a sheltered environment and learns quickly that the world around her is not what she thought it was. Fort helps lead her to the only known allies they have, while coming face to face with his brutal past. Strong characters, wonderful new world - without any spoilers, this series is very intriguing and a fun twist on mythical creatures and magic. This book ends on a cliffhanger, but well worth reading because I really want to know what comes next and watch these characters grow and thrive.
June 20, 2023
I was slow with the first 10 or so chapters due to life crap. Once I was that far in there was no way to put it down! I skipped my morning chores and finished it.
Wow! Probably the best fantasy book I have read this year. Carleah and Fort are intense together,each having their own past to come to terms with. Some darkness involved but they lean on each other to make it through each formidable challenge they face.
The world building painted a vivid picture in my imagination, with more to come in next book as they cross the realm looking for allies to help them fight a war. Fae, giants, Pegasus, and then hints of sirens and dwarfs to come. Only problem? We have to wait for august to read more! So worth it!
Wow! Probably the best fantasy book I have read this year. Carleah and Fort are intense together,each having their own past to come to terms with. Some darkness involved but they lean on each other to make it through each formidable challenge they face.
The world building painted a vivid picture in my imagination, with more to come in next book as they cross the realm looking for allies to help them fight a war. Fae, giants, Pegasus, and then hints of sirens and dwarfs to come. Only problem? We have to wait for august to read more! So worth it!
February 26, 2024
An emotional rollercoaster!
Its high fantasy with elves, gods, horror and monsters! Think lord of the rings but with romance~ i LOVED IT!
Its a lot to take in,- there's a prophecy ~the chosen one- seeking truths - beating the lies, alliance's must be made and sometimes broken! The struggle is real and it will leave you speechless!! The main heroine has been sheltered/baby her whole life and she must take everything in a matter of seconds, at her lowest- devastating loss and run with it. Its definitely a lot for her but she makes the best she can, given the circumstances and you cant really blame her. She's learning as she goes and must make fast decisions. - with her is her guardian FORT - a force to reckon with. - and her love interest. A must read!!
Its high fantasy with elves, gods, horror and monsters! Think lord of the rings but with romance~ i LOVED IT!
Its a lot to take in,- there's a prophecy ~the chosen one- seeking truths - beating the lies, alliance's must be made and sometimes broken! The struggle is real and it will leave you speechless!! The main heroine has been sheltered/baby her whole life and she must take everything in a matter of seconds, at her lowest- devastating loss and run with it. Its definitely a lot for her but she makes the best she can, given the circumstances and you cant really blame her. She's learning as she goes and must make fast decisions. - with her is her guardian FORT - a force to reckon with. - and her love interest. A must read!!
June 15, 2024
"Rise of a Warrior" by Jessica Wayne captivates with a blend of romance and fantasy. The story follows a princess, forced to flee her kingdom before an arranged marriage, protected by the stoic and valiant head guard. The tension between duty and desire is palpable as she battles to prove her worth as a warrior. Wayne's narrative, while reminiscent of "Throne of Glass," stands out with its emotional depth and gripping action. Though the plot occasionally feels predictable, the character development and engaging prose make it a worthy read for fans of romantic fantasy. A promising start to the Blade of Ice series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2023
What an incredible book! I loved everything about this story and the world that it introduces. There is no shortage of details and world building. The FMC is incredible and has so much growth in this book, she is giving me Celaena Sardothien vibes! It gave me the same feels i got from throne of glass and game of thrones! Very well written, excellent characters and boy there was some real emotional moments in there as well! I am dying to continue reading and see what becomes of our girl. Absolutely my favorite fantasy read of this year!
April 26, 2023
Amazing story, loved every page, sad it's over, and that cliffhanger!!!! WOWWWWWW
First daughter born in a millenial, Carleah is coming into her own, about to be married, even tho she desires another. One night and her whole life changes, she and Fort are on the run to get help, and to save those they can.
So many revelations and secrets revealed, I couldn't pick the best one, so I will let you decide for yourself. Long live the Rise of a Warrior!!! She is a beast and I need book 2, like now!
First daughter born in a millenial, Carleah is coming into her own, about to be married, even tho she desires another. One night and her whole life changes, she and Fort are on the run to get help, and to save those they can.
So many revelations and secrets revealed, I couldn't pick the best one, so I will let you decide for yourself. Long live the Rise of a Warrior!!! She is a beast and I need book 2, like now!
July 8, 2023
I thought this book was really good, I loved the pacing, I really didn’t want to stop enjoying it. I thought the characters were well done, who doesn’t love a hero who is in love with the heroine so much, for so long he keeps it so much to himself that he can’t talk to her, heartbreaking and hearmelting. The romance isn’t the main focus of the book, but what we get is nice and steamy. I loved this and I’m here for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2023
Not gonna lie, the beginning was kinda weak.
The FMC was constantly horny just looking at Fort, there were illogical solutions to problems (it seemed illogical to me anyway, I mean... how big was that blanket? (shoes)) and other smaller logic errors and the overall writing style just didn't sit well with me (no flow, the language, like the used cursewords, felt out of place, things like that).
But, I think the book redeemed itself at about.. 1/3 maybe? It just felt like the author actually got into it, the writing got better, the story more intense and yeah.. I just really enjoyed it.
The FMC was constantly horny just looking at Fort, there were illogical solutions to problems (it seemed illogical to me anyway, I mean... how big was that blanket? (shoes)) and other smaller logic errors and the overall writing style just didn't sit well with me (no flow, the language, like the used cursewords, felt out of place, things like that).
But, I think the book redeemed itself at about.. 1/3 maybe? It just felt like the author actually got into it, the writing got better, the story more intense and yeah.. I just really enjoyed it.
November 19, 2023
OMG Carleah & Fort!!
This story rocked my world!! I'm so invested in this series I loved every page that I turned.
The main characters feel like they are real. I felt like I was on the adventure with them. I loved the steamy parts in it, especially finding that it's Carleah's first time, wanting Fort to be the one for all the time he's been with the castle after she's had this major crush on him *I'm swooning*.
I'm wanting to read the rest of the series asap cus this was sooo good!!!... Thanks so very much Jessica 😊
This story rocked my world!! I'm so invested in this series I loved every page that I turned.
The main characters feel like they are real. I felt like I was on the adventure with them. I loved the steamy parts in it, especially finding that it's Carleah's first time, wanting Fort to be the one for all the time he's been with the castle after she's had this major crush on him *I'm swooning*.
I'm wanting to read the rest of the series asap cus this was sooo good!!!... Thanks so very much Jessica 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2023
Love the chemistry between the characters; love the whole princess and guard scenario. Such a great dynamic between them, and I like that whole trying to deny the pull between them aspect. Love the adventure and action. These characters are put through some dangerous trials! Really enjoy the writing style, and the fun world these characters have their adventures in. Plus, there’s magic! Looking forward to the next book!!
May 19, 2023
Carleah is the first princess born to the Narvalis line in centuries and leads a sheltered life. Because she is so rare, she needs to marry into a royal family that can protect her from any threats. However, her heart lies elsewhere with a guard by the name of Fort, who has never spoken a word since he was found within their kingdom as a child. She doesn't completely comprehend she's been living her life under threat of death until that threat becomes real, and Fort is the only one who is able to protect her and help her escape. Thus their adventure begins as she is thrust into a world she never realized existed so close to hers while they make their way to the only person who may be able to help her regain her kingdom - the prince to whom she was betrothed before all this began. Yet, along the way, as her feelings for Fort grow, she discovers even he isn't without his secrets - secrets that could get both of them killed.
Such an exciting and steamy beginning to this series. It's filled with action and excitement, secrets and betrayal, and interesting, frightening, and captivating fantasy characters that helped to keep me on the edge of my seat. I'm never disappointed by this author's storytelling ability, and this one was just as gripping as her others. I'm excited to read the next chapter in the series.
Such an exciting and steamy beginning to this series. It's filled with action and excitement, secrets and betrayal, and interesting, frightening, and captivating fantasy characters that helped to keep me on the edge of my seat. I'm never disappointed by this author's storytelling ability, and this one was just as gripping as her others. I'm excited to read the next chapter in the series.
July 28, 2023
i always enjoy Jessica Waynes books and Rise of A Warrior is just amazing. Carleah is just a great character she is the first Princess born to the Narvalis line in Centuries and very protected. and shes in love with Fort who has been mute since he was found as a child. this is a big no no since to save her line she has to marry a Royal. This book is filled with everything and it is just the first in a series. It makes me curious how much more exciting the next book will be.
April 19, 2023
I love a Pegasus and the way that it was weaved in to this story was Great! Carleah is a force to be reckoned with, as is Fort. The couple go through so many difficult events together and come together, making a perfect match. This story is outstanding and I could not put it down. Great Fantasy, I Highly Recommend! I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!
April 28, 2023
Incredible! 🌟
What an amazing installment, with a great world building and wonderful characters!, I loved Carleah and Fort so much! ❤️🔥
The intrigue, angst and twists and turns will keep you enthralled from the start, and the chemistry and romance will make you swoon!!! 🤗🥰
Can't wait to know what Jessica has in store for us, but I know is going to be epic!!! 😍❤️
What an amazing installment, with a great world building and wonderful characters!, I loved Carleah and Fort so much! ❤️🔥
The intrigue, angst and twists and turns will keep you enthralled from the start, and the chemistry and romance will make you swoon!!! 🤗🥰
Can't wait to know what Jessica has in store for us, but I know is going to be epic!!! 😍❤️
December 1, 2023
A really good story with lots of turns that just keep you on the edge. A possible queen, a forbidden love and a quest for allies leads to questions, uncovering secrets and some revelations. The world created is riveting, alluring and fascinating. Looking forward to the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 26, 2023
Jessica has an amazing fantasy mind and such a gifted, talented writing ability. She grabs your attention and makes you live the fantasy as it plays out. This is a good representation of what she is capable of.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2023
Rise of a Warrior
Love Jessica’s books, this one is a really good SYFY. Dummy me read book one before 2 & 3 are written - can’t wait for them to be completed. I recommend this book to any SYFY fans.
Love Jessica’s books, this one is a really good SYFY. Dummy me read book one before 2 & 3 are written - can’t wait for them to be completed. I recommend this book to any SYFY fans.
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