Reviewed by Kelly on
In Ice Kissed, we see Bryn still troubled by the investigation of the Skojare Queen's disappearance while still punishing herself for allowing Konstanin and his accomplice to escape. With word of her injuries reaching the King, war has been declared on Konstanin with both high society and guards alike being trained for combat. Bryn blames herself but is beginning to realise that Konstanin isn't the enemy, but a scapegoat of the kingdom where tensions have increased tenfold. Her friendship with Ridley is tense at best, scared to take the emotional risk of telling him how she feels, instead she gives into temptation and settles for a night of passion before journeying to find the missing queen once more.
Where in Frostfire, Bryn was capable, but in Ice Kissed she's fierce, determined and we see her human emotions being torn apart by her kingdom and the man she's hesitant to admit she's fallen in love with. Bryn reminds me of a mild version of Celaena Sardothien, not afraid to stand up for what she believes in and seemingly sees emotion as a form of weakness she no longer wants or needs. The only aspect that I find disappointing with Bryn is her lack of character development. She seems to have two personas, outspoken and brooding. I loved seeing her relinquish control in her moment of weakness with Ridley, but hopefully she finds a greater balance with her emotions, or lack thereof in the finale.
The pacing is more action packed than Frostfire, and I loved being transported to the watery Skojare kingdom, along with the flirtatious, verging on sleazy prince Kennet. But like her own homeland, transparency within the Skojare is non existent. Guards with a hidden agenda and a cold hearted king that is seemingly in the midst of an emotional breakdown. But in a testament to Bryn's character, she refused to give up, possibly due to guilt in blaming herself for Konstanin escaping custody. I needed to know what Konstanin knew, and why he has involved himself with warning others against an unknown enemy. I felt answers weren't provided and the reader is strung along when all will be revealed come the finale. Hopefully the big reveal as the storyline unravels won't disappoint.
Ice Kissed is another well written and engaging installment in the Kanin Chronicles, but sadly readers are still left with more questions than answers. I loved the defining point of Bryn and Ridley's relationship and exploring the Skojare kingdom, but it felt like a cleverly disguised sequel that doesn't add much to the overall storyline. I enjoyed it nonetheless. Readers will be expecting a well crafted finale that finally gives us the answers we so desperately seek. A big task, but I'm more than confident that Amanda Hocking will deliver with her trademark style and flare.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 11 May, 2015: Finished reading
- 11 May, 2015: Reviewed