Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow

Synopsis:

Blessed—or cursed—with an ability to understand animals, the Lass (as she's known to her family) has always been an oddball. And when an isbjorn (polar bear) seeks her out, and promises that her family will become rich if only the Lass will accompany him to his castle, she doesn't hesitate. But the bear is not what he seems, nor is his castle, which is made of ice and inhabited by a silent staff of servants. Only a grueling journey on the backs of the four winds will reveal the truth: the bear is really a prince who's been enchanted by a troll queen, and the Lass must come up with a way to free him before he's forced to marry a troll princess.

Review:
When I first began this book, I didn't care for it much. I thought it to be a bit confusing and just slow. But after a few chapters it really picked up and I didn't want to put it down. Not only was this story a weave of an old Nordic Tale, but it was also the authors own creation.

What I loved most about this is the imagination and creativity that must have gone into creating this. Of course I knew what the creatures were, but that is just my own knowledge, but for those who don't, this book is truly magical. I also loved how it kept us guessing. Halfway through I was still trying to figure it all out and I loved that...it wasn't predictable in the least bit. Also, I loved the character of the Lass (I will not give away her true name, the name that is only uttered twice) and how strong and intelligent she was. She rose above her mother's uncaring ways and became her own person and, in the end, became everything her mother wanted for herself.

Overall I thought this was a fantastic book. Even though I didn't care for it in the beginning, I can safely say I will be reading this book again. I fell in love with a completely different world and language with this book, as I hope many more will do.