The Ice Goddess

The story of Evangeline, her twin Emmett, and a stranger named Kendall, set in mid 1700’s England, is an intertwined tale of three distinct personalities having to grow up, regardless of age, and not being able to do it without each other’s assistance. That assistance, however, is unwanted on the part of all three main players, and does not come without a price from each of them.

The prologue and epilogue are used in the most incredibly brilliant way!  At first, the reader thinks that the tale will be a constant shifting of voice; something irritating to many. But it’s not. This first-person glimpse of each character serves to give a clear view of their beliefs, desires, and quirks. The book then continues beautifully in the third-person POV. This is a unique use that could become a norm. Each of the three characters has a harsh journey to maturity, having to overcome very different flaws, customary for their time period and station in life. 

The tale falls into the trap of dragging the story well out beyond what is needed. Evangeline’s anxiety and reserve sometimes appears contrived, as if it’s truly an excuse, and not an ingrained personality trait. A more thorough background would help, but careful trimming or coalescing would, too. Emmett and Kendall’s tales, though mixed with Evangeline’s, are precise and wonderful, and falling for either man is inevitable. With some tightening, this story could become a heart-wrenching tale of being forced to grow up. Even if you’re already an adult.

Julie York