Member Reviews
One thing I love is a good fantasy I love a book that can make me forget what's going on in the world and go into an imaginative world where the impossible happens and you meet characters and creatures you would never meet for real and this book had ot all
I had fun reading this. I am a big romantasy girly and I loved the Snow White retelling vibes of this. I found it to be fast paced and fun to read. It wasn't anything particularly unique or special which can be difficult in such a saturated market what with the popularity of this genre on BookTok. I do want to read more and see if maybe one of the other novels is more my cup of tea. I do find it incredibly unique that this is a standalone in a series of fairytale retellings. That honestly bumps up the rating for me as I love having a shorter standalone novel sometimes. Long series are great but they can be a big undertaking. This was cute, sweet and refreshing.
Personally this book just didn’t do it for me and it wasn’t what I expected, I was really excited when I first read the synopsis but as I read through the book I just couldn’t connect with it like I thought I would.
I had such a good time reading this Snow White retelling. Magic, a powerful female main character, a morally gray male lead, what more could I want? I love reading a standalone fantasy with world building without a huge time commitment. This fit that bill! Heartless Hunter, Spark of the Everflame and Powerless vibes. I loved the first 80 percent of the book but the ending was rushed. I wish the romance had a little more time to develop.
I love the idea of a Fae retelling of Snow White, so I was excited for the chance to read this book. It was an enjoyable, fast paced read. It included many tropes that are popular now, but maybe too many? Thank you for the opportunity to give this a read!
Carved in Ice and Glass is a Snow White retelling. I enjoyed it. I can say that I didn’t quite get into it like books I’ve previously read from the author. But it was still enjoyable nonetheless. I’m certain for others this could be a five star book, it just didn’t pull me in. I will continue to read this author, however, because her writing has really impressed me.
I liked the premise of this being a fairytale and the slow burn. I didn’t feel like much happened on their journey and there could have been more of twists and turns as it was extremely predictable. I also could have done without the spice.
I enjoyed the animal characters and how independent and strong the princess was. She was a great character!
This was a very good twist on the typical Snow white story. I had forgotten that there originally was a hunter in Snow white. I had to go and watch the classic movie to remember that detail.
Snow is hiding from the Queen, her evil step mother, when a Hunter who has sworn a fae oath promises to bring Snow's heart to the Queen. So many secrets are revealed throughout as the story goes on, and little details that are important later are also revealed but played down so when the time comes, you don't even remember them. Those key features were very well written and hidden throughout the book.
I am only giving it a 3 star rating because for what ever reason, it just couldn't hold my attention. There was something missing throughout the book and I can't quite put my finger on it... I almost got bored instead of lost in the pages like I wanted. However, it is a good read, and I will recommend it to all of my followers looking for a Snow White retelling that holds so much more magic and secrets than the original.
This retelling of the Snow White exceeded my expectations.
Usually, I can't say that I'm a huge fan of retelling, mostly because most of the ones I read fall into two categories: they don't really have a lot to do with the original story and only a few elements are used, and while I liked many books from this category, I feel like calling them a retelling is misleading and the other category, where the story just feels like re-reading the original, with a very few and small twists. Maybe I just didn't find the good ones yet.
However, this book impressed me. It had lots of elements from the original story: the heart in the box, the apples, obviously the hunter and the stepmother and many others, but I feel like I would spoil the book. But in this book Snow White is a determined woman that knows what she wants and how to get there, she's not naive and innocent anymore. The book is also filled with fantasy elements, elves and magic.
I really liked this book. It is quite fast paced and finished it really fast, but I didn't feel like it was too rushed.
⭐⭐⭐
Carved in Ice and Glass.
By R.L. Perez.
⭐3/5
Carved in Ice and Glass by R.L. Perez presents a captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale Snow White, imbued with a fantastical twist that is sure to enchant readers. The narrative, tailored with a more intricate fantasy element, deftly weaves a new tapestry around a familiar tale, offering a fresh perspective and immersive experience.
While exploring the narrative, it becomes evident that the tension between the main characters during the initial and middle sections of the book could have been further developed to enhance the reader's engagement. The dynamics between the characters, especially in these crucial segments, play a vital role in shaping the overall narrative's depth and complexity.
With its thematic elements and narrative progression, Carved in Ice and Glass fits well within the realms of Young Adult literature, catering to an audience that leans towards older teens, the suitability of which may also hinge on the reader's maturity levels. It is important to note the presence of adult themes, particularly more pronounced towards the concluding phase of the book, which adds a layer of depth and intensity to the overall storytelling.
Reflecting on my experience with this book, I extend my gratitude to NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to delve into and evaluate this captivating piece of literature. From the moment the alluring cover caught my eye to the final pages, the story proved to be a gratifying read that surpassed my expectations. Anticipation of delving into the recommended (standalone) books, "The Enemies Ever After Set," now stirs within me, promising further immersion into this enchanting
narrative world.
Carved in Ice and Glass is a fae retelling of the Snow White fairytale.
The more the story developed and secrets were unravelled, the better the book became. This retelling doesn't necessarily stand out amongst others, but the fae and adventure elements were strong, creative, and varied.
I did miss the innocence of Snow White's character which is traditionally at the core of who she is - this stubborn version of her was difficult to like at first. More detailed setting descriptions would also have made the story more immersive.
This is designed to appeal to readers who enjoy fairytale retellings and the fantasy genre, particularly fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope.
Please note the book contains moderate violence and sexual content which wouldn't be suitable for younger readers.
eARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.
This book looked and sounded really interesting and good, so I was excited to get approved, but it just really did not work for me.
This was everything I wanted in a Snow White retelling. The characters were all done so well and I really loved it.
Yes, I really shouldn't request so many review copies while also buying more and more books. I created quite a book mess the last couple of weeks. However, fairytale retellings are my thing. Once in a while I just want a story where a happily ever after is guaranteed. So, when I saw this retelling of Snow White on Netgalley, I just had to request a copy. I mean, did you see that pretty cover? And luckily the author granted me a review copy.
This retelling was entirely different from what I had expected and I think it's a positive thing in general, but not something I really enjoyed. That's a me problem and not a book problem. The book is well written, the plot is a nice mix of the original fairytale and all the well known elements of that fairytale and loads of new and original content and loads of politics. The magic system in this book is also amazing, especially because so much is shown instead of just plain explained.
My main issue with the story is that both characters are characters I'm not a big fan of. In this story Snow White knows what she wants. She's been planning for years to get her throne back. She's gathered allies and she has become insanely good at scheming, plotting and deceiving. I think a lot of readers will love her. Especially because she's everything but a prototype innocent and slightly naive Snow White.
The Hunter, who of course is gonna be Snow White's love interest by the end of the story, is a ruthless assassin. He has never really questioned his kills. He has never really questioned the false queen in general, partly because she has the ability to manipulate him, until he meets the force that is Snow White. That means the book is filled with banter, with surprising each other, with loads of raw force and with two characters constantly challenging each other.
If you normally dislike EVERY Snow White character, you might want to give this book a chance. It might surprise you in a very positive way!
This was a fast-paced romantasy that was a blend of enemies-to-lovers and fairy tale retelling. The author did create a magical experience and just wanted more. The romance was sweet but I thought everything happened rather quickly. Will I read another by this author? Definitely.
Thanks Willow Haven Press via NetGalley.
I found this(thank you!) it sounded right up my ally. It was interesting but it was also slow-not to the point where I couldnt finish though.. I do think it’s worth a shot it has an interesting storyline. I really enjoyed this!
“My whole life, I’ve had a difficult time feeling content with where I am.”
“Carved in Ice and Glass,” by R. L. Perez
This was a very good snow-white retelling. I loved the two main characters and their romance. I always ship snow white and the huntsman. The story was interesting, and I liked the vigilant vibe of snow white which reminded me of Once Upon a Time show. I will definitely be reading more books in the Enemies Ever After series. 4 out of 5 stars.
-Snow White Retelling
-Magic
-Enemies To Lovers
Thank you for the ARC, Netgalley.
I’m not usually big into re-imaginings of storybook/disney characters, but this one had a really unexpected premise that I really enjoyed. I love Theron’s arc and how willing he was to see that the way things have always been are not the right way of going about things and that a certain bias had unexpectedly solidified within him as well. I wish there was a little more spice
My only critique is the fae lore. I like that they’re fae, but historically the winter court is unsheelie sidhe and the summer court is seelie sidhe, whereas the seelie seem to rule both in this world and that’s just an odd choice I guess.
Random notes from my read:
- Really liking this take on Snow White
- Theron is hot
- I really wish there was more backstory about the father and him meeting Calista
- Arabella??
- LOVE how the poison apple and kiss were handled. Really cool idea
- Theron’s decision kind of bums me out
Many thanks to Netgalley for providing the DRC and allowing me to provide my honest review
I LOVE fantasy books, and if you're reading this, chances are you do, too. I picked up "Carved in Ice and Glass" because it promised an enemies-to-lovers romance, forced proximity, and a fairytale retelling of Snow White. I'm happy to say it delivered!
I read a LOT of fantasy (like, 150+ books a year. Send help!). Fairytale retellings are among my favorites, but lately, they haven't drawn me in like they used to. Part of the problem could be that they all seem to feature the same tropes (I blame you, ACOTAR), but I think the main issue is that I start each fairytale knowing how it will end. A handsome prince rescues a beautiful princess, and they live Happily Ever After. The End.
That is NOT what happens in this story.
Eira is more than a pretty face, and she doesn't need a Prince Charming to fight her battles for her. I love that this version of Snow White is cunning, sarcastic, and can go toe-to-toe against the Queen's huntsman. Speaking of the Queen's huntsman, I like how Theron's grumpiness complimented Eira's wit. I think the author did an amazing job creating a love interest that is worth the FMC falling in love with while not undermining the rugged warrior aspect of their character, which I think many authors fail to properly balance.
I also like the setting of this story. Eira, Theron, and their animal companions navigate unfamiliar woods, battle unseelie fae, and bargain with pixies before infiltrating the Queen's palace. The author's attention to detail and expansive world-building is especially impressive given the limited page number.
The only reason I'm not giving this book five stars is because I feel that the story could have been better fleshed out. It isn't the author's fault—this book is a standalone in the Enemies Ever After series, and it's marketed as a short, steamy retelling. Even so, I wish that more time was spent building the relationships between the characters. We barely got to know any of the side characters, and I think increasing their page time would have been an effective way to show the tension between humans and fae. I also think the ending was a little rushed, but I like how it brought the story to a natural conclusion.
Overall, "Carved in Ice and Glass" stands out as a unique and original retelling of Snow White. The portrayal of Eira as a strong, independent protagonist is a refreshing departure from other romantasies in the book community. This story helped restore my love (and faith!) in fairytale retellings.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and Netgalley; all opinions are my own.
Wow this book was spectacular! I loved the elements of the original Snow White story, but the subtle differences and unique plot elements were what made this story come alive as its own. The story had true enemies to lovers, which is my favorite trope, especially in fantasy books. The high stakes and magical elements were also what made this story interesting. Thank you Willow Haven Press for sending me a copy of this book.