WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
Hey, my bookish babes! You know I’m all about cozy vibes and magic this time of year, and what better way to escape the cold than with some seriously dreamy winter fantasy reads? These winter fantasy book recs will take you to enchanted, icy realms where the snow sparkles and magic is everywhere! So grab your comfiest blanket, light a candle that smells like pine, and let’s dive into these winter fantasy book recs. 🧣✨
1. The Winter of the Witch by Katherine Arden
Rating: 4.9/5
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction
Tropes: Russian Folklore, Winter Magic, Heroine’s Journey
Main Characters: Vasilisa Petrovna, Morozko, The Bear
What It's About:The stunning conclusion to The Winternight Trilogy, The Winter of the Witch takes us deeper into medieval Russia, where Vasilisa must wield her magical gifts to protect her homeland from dark forces. With an ancient winter demon and powerful magic at play, this final chapter is a magical and fierce winter adventure.
Review:OMG, if you haven’t picked up The Winternight Trilogy, what are you even doing?! The winter magic in this book is just chef’s kiss. Vasilisa is such a badass, and the Russian folklore brings all the icy, mystical vibes that’ll have you enchanted. The snowy landscapes feel SO real—like you’ll want to bundle up just reading it. If you’re in the mood for an epic winter adventure with magic, folklore, and a heroine who slays (literally), you NEED this one!
2. Frostblood by Elly Blake
Rating: 4.5/5
Genre: YA Fantasy, Adventure
Tropes: Elemental Magic, Enemies to Lovers, Prophecy
Main Characters: Ruby, Arcus
What It's About:In a world where Frostbloods rule, Ruby has the rare ability to control fire. After being imprisoned by the cruel Frost King’s soldiers, Ruby finds herself caught up in a rebellion that could overthrow the icy regime. With the mysterious and broody Arcus by her side, Ruby must master her magic—and her feelings—if she wants to survive.
Review:Okay, so Frostblood had me hooked from the first page! The whole fire vs. ice magic thing? LOVE IT. And the tension between Ruby and Arcus is giving me life—enemies to lovers with all the slow-burn goodness. Also, the snowy setting? Ugh, it’s perfect. You can practically feel the chill as Ruby navigates this icy world. If you’re into action-packed fantasy with a sizzling romance, you’ll devour this one. Total binge-worthy material!
3. Winter's Orbit by Everina Maxwell
Rating: 4.6/5
Genre: Sci-Fi Fantasy, LGBTQ+ Romance
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, Political Intrigue, Slow-Burn Romance
Main Characters: Kiem, Jainan
What It's About:Prince Kiem is thrown into an arranged marriage with Jainan, a widowed diplomat from a distant, icy planet. As they try to navigate their new relationship, they’re drawn into political drama and dangerous secrets that could put their entire empire at risk.
Review:Omg, this book is SO much more than just a winter romance—it’s got space politics, slow-burn romance, and such a unique wintery setting. The icy planet totally feels like a character in itself, and the way Kiem and Jainan’s relationship develops? Swoon. If you’re in the mood for a winter fantasy that blends romance, political intrigue, and an epic, frozen landscape, you’re going to adore this. It’s a perfect cozy-up-and-read-with-tea kind of book.
4. The Ice Palace by Tarjei Vesaas
Rating: 4.4/5
Genre: Literary Fiction, Magical Realism
Tropes: Friendship, Loss, Icy Mystery
Main Characters: Siss, Unn
What It's About:Two girls in a remote Norwegian village form a deep bond, but when one of them disappears into a mystical ice palace, the other is left grappling with grief and the mysteries of the frozen world around her.
Review:The Ice Palace is like reading a dream—it’s haunting, magical, and full of winter vibes. The frozen setting is sobeautifully written that you can almost hear the crunch of snow under your feet. The story is a slow burn, but it’s so worth it for the emotional depth and the stunning descriptions. If you want something quieter and a bit more introspective, but with ALL the winter magic, this one’s a must-read.
5. The Ice Dragon by George R.R. Martin
Rating: 4.3/5
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Illustrated Novel
Tropes: Dragons, Winter Magic, Heroic Quest
Main Characters: Adara, The Ice Dragon
What It's About:Adara was born during the worst freeze her world has ever seen, and she’s always felt a connection to the cold and the legendary ice dragon. When war threatens her home, Adara and her ice dragon might be the only ones who can save it.
Review:Dragons + winter magic = YES PLEASE! The Ice Dragon is a short, illustrated novel that’s perfect if you want a quick but totally immersive winter read. The artwork is gorgeous, and the story is like a fairy tale with dragons and snowstorms. Adara is such a cool (pun intended) character, and the bond she has with the ice dragon is so heartwarming. If you’re into magical creatures and icy quests, this little book is a gem!
6. The Polar Bear Explorers’ Club by Alex Bell
Rating: 4.7/5
Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Adventure
Tropes: Exploration, Found Family, Magical Creatures
Main Characters: Stella Starflake Pearl, Shay, Beanie
What It's About:Stella Starflake Pearl has always dreamed of being an explorer, and when she’s finally allowed to join the Polar Bear Explorers’ Club on an expedition to the Icelands, she embarks on the adventure of a lifetime. With magical creatures and icy challenges ahead, Stella and her new friends must prove they’re ready for anything.
Review:This book is SO cute and magical! It’s technically middle grade, but honestly, it’s perfect for anyone who loves magical adventures and wintery settings. The Icelands are filled with enchanting creatures, and the friendships in this book are pure gold. Stella is such a brave, loveable heroine, and her journey is full of snowy fun and heartwarming moments. If you’re looking for something light, adventurous, and full of winter magic, you’ll love The Polar Bear Explorers’ Club. It’s like a wintery hug in book form!
Which icy realm are you escaping to first, babes? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to tag me in your #WinterFantasy posts @apolloimperium! ❄️💖📚
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