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A review by elizalicart
Fire in Frost by Alicia Rades
challenging
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
Fire in Frost takes readers into the world of Crystal Frost, a teenage girl grappling with her newfound psychic abilities amidst the challenges of her everyday adolescent life. Supported by her mother and friends, she navigates the possibilities that her unique powers have thrown her way. The book tackles both mature and juvenile topics, mimicking the chaotic time of life for teens Crystal's age. On top of that, Rades succeeds in creating a consistently creepy atmosphere throughout, almost to the extent that I had to keep my lights on while reading!
Although, one of the book's standout aspects was its sensitive exploration of an abusive relationship. Rades navigates Kelli's conflicting emotions towards Nate with authenticity, portraying the complexities of love, fear, and protection in such a situation. The gradual escalation of the abuse, how it affects others, and Nate's gaslighting tactics are depicted in a realistic and impactful manner, adding depth to the character dynamics.
However, most characters lacked individual depth. Kelli received the most characterisation, while Crystal (the protagonist), Emma, and even Derek could have quite easily switched places (exchanging the psychic power, of course), and the story would not have changed. Perhaps this makes Crystal relatable—any reader could picture themself in her shoes—but I feel it made her bland. The pacing of the plot is also somewhat slow, lacking in tension and urgency in such a way that I was battling between intrigue and boredom most of the way through. The stakes surrounding Kelli's situation and the danger posed by Nate could have been more clearly defined to create a sense of impending danger to drive the plot and its characters forward.
Looking ahead, the book does set the stage for development of Crystal's psychic abilities through aiding in police investigations, which could add a compelling layer to future instalments. Overall, Fire in Frost is a solid start to a series. While it may benefit from tighter pacing, heightened stakes, and deeper characterisation, its exploration of the supernatural makes it a worthwhile read for fans of paranormal fiction and coming-of-age stories alike.
Although, one of the book's standout aspects was its sensitive exploration of an abusive relationship. Rades navigates Kelli's conflicting emotions towards Nate with authenticity, portraying the complexities of love, fear, and protection in such a situation. The gradual escalation of the abuse, how it affects others, and Nate's gaslighting tactics are depicted in a realistic and impactful manner, adding depth to the character dynamics.
However, most characters lacked individual depth. Kelli received the most characterisation, while Crystal (the protagonist), Emma, and even Derek could have quite easily switched places (exchanging the psychic power, of course), and the story would not have changed. Perhaps this makes Crystal relatable—any reader could picture themself in her shoes—but I feel it made her bland. The pacing of the plot is also somewhat slow, lacking in tension and urgency in such a way that I was battling between intrigue and boredom most of the way through. The stakes surrounding Kelli's situation and the danger posed by Nate could have been more clearly defined to create a sense of impending danger to drive the plot and its characters forward.
Looking ahead, the book does set the stage for development of Crystal's psychic abilities through aiding in police investigations, which could add a compelling layer to future instalments. Overall, Fire in Frost is a solid start to a series. While it may benefit from tighter pacing, heightened stakes, and deeper characterisation, its exploration of the supernatural makes it a worthwhile read for fans of paranormal fiction and coming-of-age stories alike.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse
The primary investigation concerns domestic abuse, so this is consistently explored throughout the book.