Review: Ice Apprentices: The Frozen Curse by Jacob North

Ice Apprentices: The Frozen Curse is the second book in the Ice Apprentices trilogy – and what an unforgettable return to this icy, magical, dangerous world it turned out to be! I was immediately swept into this incredible fantasy adventure which completely captured me from the opening lines and has left me eager for more.

On a forbidden trip to Central Tundra, 14-year-old Oswin Fields witnesses a woman being dragged into the Stalagmite Cabin but when he enters the Cabin to avoid detection by his adoptive mother, he discovers that the woman has disappeared. Narrowly avoiding being sent to prison when he is caught trespassing by High Watcher Greyheart, Oswin returns to begin his second year at Corridor, the training grounds for Ice Apprentices.

Shortly after being reunited with best friend, Ennastasia, they witness an attack on Grandmaster Yarrow which sees her taken to the Icefirmary and High Watcher Greyheart taking control at Corridor, imposing unwelcome restrictions on the apprentices. Despite these constraints, Oswin and Ennastasia are determined to discover who is behind the attack on Grandmaster Yarrow. Could this have anything to do with the early return of the Freeze – and the threat of another Great Freeze which will put everyone in Tundra in danger of death?

And so begins an action-packed, compulsive adventure as Oswin and Ennastasia search for the truth behind the early emergence of the Freeze, a truth that brings terrifying danger and incredible revelations. I was completely swept into this adventure which had me on the edge of my seat and eagerly turning pages as peril increased and truths were slowly revealed. I really enjoyed the feeling of never knowing who to trust and the shock I felt at some revelations, but loved that I felt I really got to know character motivation behind choices made.

Oswin and Ennatasia have built the most wonderful, strong and witty friendship which, whilst challenged at times, sees each accepting the other for who they truly are. They are incredibly courageous and determined and are prepared to take perilous risks to save the people of Tundra. But I also loved that these two take risks with their friendship often leading to a deepening bond and understanding of each other. I also really liked that Ennatasia opens herself up to another friendship and that she stands up to someone who asserts so much control over her life.

Whilst this could be read as a standalone, I think there will be a much richer reading experience from having read Ice Apprentices first. This is a richly imagined, masterfully built world with an epic scope that truly immerses the reader in its history, geography, politics and diverse society. I have loved finding out more about the magic system, the reasons for the changes in climate with the Freeze and the Thaw, and now really want to find out more about the oddities! And, after that ending, I am desperate to read the next adventure.

A riveting return to this stunning, icy world where courageous friends battle danger and secrets that will change them forever.

Thank you to the Publisher, Simon & Schuster, for sending me an early copy in exchange for my honest opinion.