A review by constant2m
Ice Crown by Kay L. Moody

5.0

Ice Crown is a fantastic beginning to what promises to be an intriguing series. Talise was born in the Storm, the poorest and most dangerous place in the world, populated by criminals and families of criminals. The only way out is to train at the academy, a life reserved for the most talented with the elemental magics. And the only way to stay out of the Storm and bring one's family out of poverty is to win the academy's greatest honor, being chosen by the emperor as the Master Shaper. Talise is talented, but a new student quickly joins the academy with as great or greater a gift. As a result, Talise has to attempt a type of magic that has never been successfully executed before. Will that be enough or will she die trying?

I loved the characters. I loved the setting. And I loved the intrigue. Talise has so much to gain and so much to lose, but her reasons for both are compelling. She is also likable, making me cheer for her even when it seems like the odds are stacked against her. I wish we knew more about her mother or what caused her family to be in the Storm in the first place. Is the emperor cruel or just strict? And what will happen if Talise wins the competition? What will happen if she loses? I suppose we'll all have to keep reading to find out.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.