Heir of Shadows and Ice

Claiming Elfhame, Book 1

De: J.M. Wallace

Narrado por: Ali Dane

These Hollow Vows meets Red Queen in the first book of this stunning new series about a halfling, fae-mortal girl caught in a web of royal faerie intrigue and the threat they pose to the mortal realm.

The world will succumb to frost and be reborn in fire. That is what the witch promised...

Since then, Kelera has spent her life denying the Fae blood that runs in her veins, shutting away the magic that calls to her.

But when trouble strikes the heart of the kingdom, she finds she must do whatever it takes to help. For the chance to save herself, her people, and to prove her loyalty to the mortal realm, Kelera must venture into the heart of Elfhame and navigate her way through the malevolent Unseelie Court at the risk of her own life.

When she is captured by the most malicious of the Unseelie Princes, Kelera’s only choice is to do what she must to survive. Even if it means embracing the magic she has been holding at bay.

Immersed in the dangers of Elfhame and faced with the brothers who each vie for the Unseelie crown, Kelera must navigate not only the treacherous court, but also the traitorous feelings blooming in her heart, and decide if taking back her power is worth the risk.

Heir of Shadows and Ice is the first book in the thrilling fantasy series, Claiming Elfhame. Step into a world of danger, intrigue, magic, and mayhem as Kelera journeys to save those she holds most dear.

This is a New Adult series with themes of violence and mild language as well as intimacy. Recommended for Mature Audeinces."

©2022 J.M. Wallace (P)2024 J.M. Wallace

Hear Me Out...

I want to start by saying that I don't usually write lengthy reviews, however, something in me wants to voice my opinion about this piece.

Pros:
1. In my opinion, the storyline and "idea" behind the plot were VERY original. I really enjoyed that the plot wasn't the same ol' Fae retelling.
2. The FMC shows growth through the story, which is refreshing.
3. The slow burn is...slow! Good and bad I suppose (see cons)
4. Great world building!
5. What's going on with Alexander?! Like why was your shirt all ruffled, bro? Hopefully we hear more on that topic in the upcoming books!


Cons:
1. The story didn't flow like I had hoped it would. I'm not sure how to explain it but I can tell you that I started to panic when I realized that there was only a few hours left and the story still hadn't picked up like I wanted it to.
2. There doesn't seem to be enough depth to the characters and I'm having a hard time connecting. The FMC is very bland in my opinion. As far as the MMC although he's morally grey (which is always a plus), he doesn't charm me. Something is missing??
3. I don't feel the chemistry between the FMC and MMC. I wish there was some more passion. Although a slow burn is a plus, sometimes things fizzled out for a while.
4. The narrator is great, however, she needs to have more emotion and different voices when alternating the characters.
5. The Scottish/Irish(?) accent. I normally love this accent but for some reason the narrator drove me crazy when she did it.

Lots of pros and cons. I'm looking forward to sticking with this author and seeing how not only the characters grow, but perhaps how she does as well. She clearly has some awesome potential and I'm here for it!!

Loved it!

I loved this story and can’t wait to get the next in the series. Fantastic world building, character development, and plot and performance!

another wonderful story narrated by Ali Dane

looking for fae secrets, political intrigue, slow burn, and a great narrator?! give this audio book a listen asap

amazing world building.

This was an exciting trip into Elfhame, where Kelera is forced to go and try to rescue her best friend after she is kidnapped by one of the Fae princes. Of course, nothing goes according to plan and she herself becomes stuck there.

Samiel is ruthless in his fight for power, and isn't afraid to use everyone else for his gains. While Kelera is better off under another prince, Adrastus, there seems to be a fight for everything between the brothers, especially Kelera's company.

As she learns information about her own heritage and Samiel's horrible plans, Kelera finds herself allying with Adrastus despite his cold demeanor towards her. While they fight for the kingdom of Elfhame, will they also find solace in one another for more than political reasons?

Amazing

Just amazing! The beginning was a little slow but after about chapter two it picked up where I couldn’t put it down. I cannot wait to see what happens now! The narrator was just amazing as well. She did an amazing job!

The Journey

I loved the journey Wallace took me on. I wish the next one was out on audible! One of the best fae books I have read 😊

Slow Burn Fantasy

I enjoyed this book. It gave me slight ACOTAR vibes but with a different sort of storyline. It definitely kept me interested and I can’t wait for the next one.

Favorite Narrator (and amazing story)

Ali Dane is by far one of the best narrators I’ve ever encountered. Her voice is so soothing and she gives life to the characters through different intonations, tones, and even accents. It is always clear which character is speaking.

The book itself was also phenomenal! I can’t wait to read book 2. This fantasy romance, with just a hint of spice, will keep you guessing and take your breath away!

Fantastic! I need book 2!

Wow. First, the story is fantastic! I didn’t want to stop listening. I was on the edge of my seat! There was a lot going on and with all the twists and turns, it all came to a very intriguing and climactic ending! Making me wanting more!

Second, the narration was phenomenal. Ali’s voices was easily distinguishable between characters. And she had quite a few characters to do! She does a fantastic job of making you feel the emotions of the characters and bringing them to life. I’ve listened to several other audiobooks that she narrated and I know when I see her name it will be a great audiobook.

🤍🤍🤍

why is this book not more popular? it's so good.. cant wait till the next one.. the narrator did a great job bringing the story to life.