Review of 'A Winter’s Promise'

Interestingly, A Winter’s Promise follows a world separated into arks, where societies differ, as does the magic to create something unique.

Storytelling

I have to say, this was quite an unexpected read. I don’t know what I expected when I began reading this, but I don’t think it was this. And that’s a good thing!

I like entering a book not knowing what I’m going to get. Sometimes, when you read a lot, tropes become second nature, which can sometimes lead to predictability.

A Winter’s Promise is an entirely unique story following Ophelia as she is betrothed to an heir at another ark, another kingdom where their magic differs from hers. Ophelia can mirror walk and go from one place to another as long as she can visualize the place she is going. Among these gifts, she has another ability: she can read the memory of objects and see into their past and those who once carried the object.

Her gifts have made her valuable to this new court and put her in the crosshairs of those who would like to destroy her betrothed.

There is definitely a lot of world-building here, so much so that it sometimes makes the plot drag. Still, considering the amount of subterfuge and court politics, it is easy to understand why Dabos focuses much of her time building up the world and the magic system.

The many intricacies in world-building do require the reader to pay close attention. Still, what’s critical here and why it works and holds the attention is that, just like the reader, Ophelia has to learn everything, too. We’re on the journey with her, making it easy to form a connection with the character and get to know her.

Strong Characterization

Ophelia is a rather serious character, but it leads to part of her charm. She is clever, resourceful, and true to herself. More importantly, Ophelia asks questions. She understands that she is in danger by association and that being a foreigner is part of what puts her life in danger.

However, Ophelia is not one to just lie down and take it. No, Ophelia has her own magic and secrets. She can play the game, and once she learns the rules, she becomes one of the better players, learning politics and finding a way to keep herself safe from those who would harm her.

Final Thoughts

A Winter’s Promise is an entirely unpredictable and unique start to a new series. It does have a world-building, but the layers that go into the storytelling and the strong characterization make for a fascinating read.

• Writing Quality : 9/10
• Character Development : 9/10
• "Couldn't Put It Down"-ness : 7/10
• Intellectual Depth: 9/10
• Originality: 9.5/10
• Overall Rating: 3.8 out of 5.

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About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband, son and daughter and their two cats.