“On Silver Winds” by Ava Smiddy is a fantasy reimagining of the classic tale of the Snow Queen with major “Frozen” vibes. The story follows Princess Adeline Beira, in the everwinter kingdom of Eisalaan, as she prepares for her 22nd birthday - a point where she will need to declare her intentions of pursuing her mother’s (the Snow Queen’s) throne or abdicate her title as Heir. Adeline’s older sister, Mareda, has already declared her intentions and is thrilled at the idea of Adeline - having no ambitions to follow in her cold mother’s (Queen Selma’s) footsteps - wanting to pursue a more quiet life outside of the palace.
However, the kingdom is thrown into upheaval when the 600-year-old King Kai emerges from the depths of the frozen lake. Adeline and her family quickly learn that Eisalaan is beginning to thaw, and her kingdom’s way of life is being threatened. As King Kai and his people are accepted into the throws of Queen Selma’s court, it seems that the lake is not the only thing that is beginning to thaw; Queen Selma begins to show a side of herself that has Adeline questioning her decision to bow out as an Heir.
Amidst the family drama and the secrets King Kai is keeping, Adeline is tasked with training with the King. You know how things go from here - they train daily, getting to know each other, and the foundation of their feelings are cemented.
Things come to a head when Adeline must decide where she fits in the grand scheme of things - and where she is going to make a difference with her people…even if that means it’s not by King Kai’s side.
This book was such a unique retelling of a beloved fairytale and was incredibly well-written for a first-time novel. I loved the court politics and the family drama - although I felt Mareda’s character could have been a little more front and center and developed.
I absolutely love the slow burn romance between King Kai and Adeline. He falls in love with her and wants to protect her from the harms of the court (at the risk of his own kingdom and people), but also realizes she must stand on her own feet (and doesn’t try to damselize her). I did feel that their break-up scene was entirely forced and not necessary.
The pacing was pretty decent - until the end. I reached the final chapters and I feel like a lot happened all at once…and that there wasn’t much in the way of closure for Adeline and the events that unfolded. Like, a decision is made and suddenly it’s the epilogue. I get that the epilogue provided some set-up for the next book in the duet, but I wish there had been more fight at the end.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book - so much so that I probably would have given it five stars had it not been for the breakneck speed of the ending. If you enjoy books that are steeped in folklore, examine royal politics and family drama, have its fair share of secrets and betrayal, and give the perfect amount of spice to thaw a frozen heart, you will want to check out Ava Smiddy’s “On Silver Winds.”
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