Book review of This Frozen Heart

by Jes Drew (Author)

Updated at: 05/02/2025

In Jes Drew's This Frozen Heart, the second installment of the Seasons of Legend series, a fiery rebel and a disciplined soldier find themselves unexpectedly entwined. Gerta, a fierce protector of her clan in the icy tundra, clashes with Kay, the newly appointed captain tasked with subduing her people. Their conflict intensifies when a blizzard strands them alone, forcing an uneasy alliance against the unforgiving landscape. But the true threat lies beyond the biting winds – a mythical Queen of Winter, hunting for hearts. This enemies-to-lovers novella, a Snow Queen reimagining, explores themes of survival, freedom, and unexpected love amidst a breathtakingly harsh and magical setting. A standalone story, it delivers a captivating blend of action, romance, and fantasy.

4.2 / 23 ratings

Review This Frozen Heart

This Frozen Heart, a delightful reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen, swept me away to a land of endless winter and captivating characters. Jes Drew expertly crafts a compelling narrative, seamlessly blending the familiar fairytale elements with unique twists that kept me thoroughly engaged from beginning to end. The enemies-to-lovers trope, a personal favorite, is handled with grace and wit, resulting in a heartwarming romance that blossoms amidst the harsh, unforgiving landscape.

Gerta, the fierce and independent rebel, and Kay, the disciplined and pragmatic soldier, are wonderfully contrasting characters whose initial animosity gives way to a complex and believable connection. Their banter is sharp and entertaining, adding a layer of humor to the otherwise frosty setting. I found myself chuckling at their frequent clashes and the awkward, endearing moments of forced proximity – being handcuffed together during a blizzard certainly adds a unique spin to the classic meet-cute! Their individual strengths and flaws are well-developed, making them both relatable and sympathetic despite their opposing allegiances.

The pacing of the story is brisk and engaging, perfect for a cozy read on a snowy afternoon (or any day, really!). While the novella format meant some aspects were necessarily condensed, the core elements of the Snow Queen narrative were beautifully preserved and enriched by Drew's creative additions. The world-building is rich and atmospheric, vividly painting a picture of the treacherous tundra and its inhabitants. The sense of danger and isolation is palpable, enhancing the emotional stakes of Gerta and Kay's perilous journey.

While some reviewers mentioned a slightly disjointed plot or rushed ending, I personally didn't find these to be major detractors. The story’s brevity felt appropriate for the novella format, and the overall emotional arc was satisfying. The focus remained firmly on the burgeoning relationship between Gerta and Kay, and their personal growth throughout their trials. The inclusion of the Snow Queen herself, though briefly depicted, added a layer of mystical intrigue that nicely complemented the central romance.

Overall, This Frozen Heart is a highly enjoyable read, especially for fans of fairytale retellings and enemies-to-lovers romances. It's a charming, fast-paced story that successfully captures the essence of the original tale while adding a modern flair and a touch of heartwarming romance. The atmospheric descriptions and well-developed characters create an immersive experience that lingers long after the final page is turned. I highly recommend it as a light yet captivating escape, perfect for curling up with on a cold evening and allowing yourself to be swept away to a land of snow, rebellion, and unexpected love.

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