by Christine Cohen
publisher’s synopsis
A village trapped in winter, a tyrannical god, and a girl who will do anything to keep her family alive… Ever since Cora’s father disappeared through the ice, whispers about her family’s “curse” have grown increasingly louder. Desperate to help her mother and siblings survive another bleak season in the Winter King’s frozen grasp, Cora begins to bend (and even break) the rules she has kept since she was a little girl.
But when she discovers a secret that’s much bigger than herself, she realizes too late that she has put herself–and those she loves–in even greater peril.
The Winter King is a deep, engaging, and enjoyable novel.
Cora is a fascinating main character in that she isn’t an admirable person. She’s deeply flawed, and as the book goes on we see her become bitter and manipulative. But her flaws cause us to see our own, partly because Cora’s motivations resonate with us. We’d do anything to protect our family, just like Cora. And I think that connection between the reader and Cora really makes Cora’s flaws and arc all the more impactful.
The other characters were great. Nils is awful, as he is supposed to be. The little bit of romance is sweet, even if the characters are maybe a little young. (I mentally read them older than sixteen)
The worldbuilding was delightful. Cohen nailed the wintry vibe, while also layering some fantasy elements. (Druagr anyone?) The plot will keep you reading as Cora tries to provide for her family, and ends up finding herself in something bigger than herself. And I really liked the theme of searching for Truth.
If you’re looking for a good read with some great vibes, that also has deep themes and will make you think, consider The Winter King.
Cautions: light romance; two kisses; brief, non-detailed allusion to a character having an affair in the past; brief mention of a character being illegitimate; two instances of a swear word used for its original meaning; brief violence
Hailey Huntington 
Leave a reply to Noah Cancel reply