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Upon a Frosted Star
When the snow falls, she will be free…
The invitations always arrive the same way – without warning, appearing around the city on the first snowfall of the year, simply inscribed with ‘Tonight.’
When struggling artist, Forster, finds an invitation, he’s bewitched by the magic of the evening, swept up in the glamour of this notorious annual party and intrigued as to who is behind them.
Determined to find out more about the mysterious host, Forster discovers an abandoned manor house silent with secrets and a cursed woman who is desparate to be free…
The invitations always arrive the same way – without warning, appearing around the city on the first snowfall of the year, simply inscribed with ‘Tonight.’
When struggling artist, Forster, finds an invitation, he’s bewitched by the magic of the evening, swept up in the glamour of this notorious annual party and intrigued as to who is behind them.
Determined to find out more about the mysterious host, Forster discovers an abandoned manor house silent with secrets and a cursed woman who is desparate to be free…
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 21, 2023
About the author
M.A. Kuzniar
3 books190 followersM.A. Kuzniar is also published under the name Maria Kuzniar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
February 18, 2024
Ok, so I loved the premise. In a Manor House in the country a most secret and extravagant party is thrown every year.
Forster and his best friends Rose and Marvin are always on the look out for the elusive invitations which tell of the theme and date of the next spectacular event.
The parties are thrown by a mysterious woman, who usually turns up to perform a ballet dance before melting away into the shadows.
Who is she? Forster becomes entranced and infatuated, determined to know more of this girl.
Once we know of Etta’s secret I felt it started to drag, it was very piney - Forster is constantly yearning and whining. And yes it was unfair, such is life, but I got a bit tired reading about it.
And then the ending
All very dramatic and a bit too much for me. But then I’m basically dead inside 😂
Forster and his best friends Rose and Marvin are always on the look out for the elusive invitations which tell of the theme and date of the next spectacular event.
The parties are thrown by a mysterious woman, who usually turns up to perform a ballet dance before melting away into the shadows.
Who is she? Forster becomes entranced and infatuated, determined to know more of this girl.
Once we know of Etta’s secret I felt it started to drag, it was very piney - Forster is constantly yearning and whining. And yes it was unfair, such is life, but I got a bit tired reading about it.
And then the ending
All very dramatic and a bit too much for me. But then I’m basically dead inside 😂
Want to read
September 23, 2023A fairytale that's going to be a mix of the Great Gatsby meets Swan Lake? I hope this is going to be as magical as it sounds.
December 5, 2023
I read Midnight in Everwood by this author a couple of years ago and really enjoyed it. I was excited to see that she had written another book and immediately added Upon a Frosted Star to my tbr. Swan Lake is my favorite ballet so the premise of the book instantly had my interest. The prose was was absolutely stunning and very well suited for the fairytale vibes and atmosphere of the story.
I liked all of the characters. Each had their flaws, but still remained likeable even when I found some of their decisions to be frustrating. The pacing was a little slow at times which may be an issue for some readers. This book worked well for me and I think it was a great choice for a winter read. If you enjoy magical realism and purple prose, this one is worth picking up.
I liked all of the characters. Each had their flaws, but still remained likeable even when I found some of their decisions to be frustrating. The pacing was a little slow at times which may be an issue for some readers. This book worked well for me and I think it was a great choice for a winter read. If you enjoy magical realism and purple prose, this one is worth picking up.
April 10, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ stories for this advanced copy.
I was a big fan of Midnight in Everwood so I was excited to read the next book from Kuzniar. However, it didn’t share the same magical quality as Everwood and I felt the cons outweighed the pros.
Frosted Star is told from the perspective of Forster who attends a lavish party with his friend Marvin and falls for a mysterious ballet dancer he sees that night. As he tries to find out who she is he realises she has a much darker past than he could begin to imagine.
I loved the setting of the book and the wintery feel it had throughout. The lavish parties jumped off the page and made me wish to be there. I also enjoy the way Kuzniar beautifully writes dialogue.
My issues came with the characters as they all felt underwritten. Beginning with Forster, it was an interesting choice to have the story told from the male perspective and after a while I grew bored and felt he was too hollow of a character to hold the story.
My favourite character was Detta but I feel she did not have enough time in this book. It isn’t until around a third that the narrative changes to her perspective and we slowly begin to gain insight into how she ended up the way she is. I would have loved to have had more of the story from her perspective and much earlier in the book as by page 100 I was forcing myself to continue reading.
It also felt at times as if Marvin and Rose had no real need to be apart of the story, especially towards the end. They offered no real connection to Forster and Marvin never held much of an antagonist position.
A character I would have loved more of is Rothbart. He had the potential to be a much bigger villain but as we rarely had Detta’s POV in the book, we did not get much Rothbart either.
I also had issues with the pacing of the book. As mentioned previously, it often felt like a struggle to continue reading this book to get to something interesting with many of the chapters feeling like filler. I believe the ending has a lot of potential but only if there is more build up to it throughout the story.
Overall, I think the book is just fine, but does not hold a candle to Everwood. The magic spark is not there and having the story told from a male perspective did not work for me.
I was a big fan of Midnight in Everwood so I was excited to read the next book from Kuzniar. However, it didn’t share the same magical quality as Everwood and I felt the cons outweighed the pros.
Frosted Star is told from the perspective of Forster who attends a lavish party with his friend Marvin and falls for a mysterious ballet dancer he sees that night. As he tries to find out who she is he realises she has a much darker past than he could begin to imagine.
I loved the setting of the book and the wintery feel it had throughout. The lavish parties jumped off the page and made me wish to be there. I also enjoy the way Kuzniar beautifully writes dialogue.
My issues came with the characters as they all felt underwritten. Beginning with Forster, it was an interesting choice to have the story told from the male perspective and after a while I grew bored and felt he was too hollow of a character to hold the story.
My favourite character was Detta but I feel she did not have enough time in this book. It isn’t until around a third that the narrative changes to her perspective and we slowly begin to gain insight into how she ended up the way she is. I would have loved to have had more of the story from her perspective and much earlier in the book as by page 100 I was forcing myself to continue reading.
It also felt at times as if Marvin and Rose had no real need to be apart of the story, especially towards the end. They offered no real connection to Forster and Marvin never held much of an antagonist position.
A character I would have loved more of is Rothbart. He had the potential to be a much bigger villain but as we rarely had Detta’s POV in the book, we did not get much Rothbart either.
I also had issues with the pacing of the book. As mentioned previously, it often felt like a struggle to continue reading this book to get to something interesting with many of the chapters feeling like filler. I believe the ending has a lot of potential but only if there is more build up to it throughout the story.
Overall, I think the book is just fine, but does not hold a candle to Everwood. The magic spark is not there and having the story told from a male perspective did not work for me.
September 21, 2023
What better way to cope with a heatwave than reading a book with plenty of snow? It certainly cooled me down!
The more I read of this book, the more spell-bound I became. This is a tragic love story woven in history with a bit of gothic thrown in there as well. At first I thought I would not like it because the plot moves so slowly but, as the mystery of the glamourous parties becomes unravelled, I felt as addicted as Forster.
Forster’s relationship is an addiction and I loved how he attempted to resist temptation. Yet, he is haunted by the woman he sees at these apparently random parties. The way that Kuzniar describes these gatherings are exotic and lavish. I loved the magic and fantasy elements that come through yet at the same time, Forster’s loneliness and isolation as an outsider becomes more prevalent at these events. It is one of these parties that changes Forster forever.
There is an increasing sense of urgency as the novel progresses. Solving a mystery, a curse and desiring the winter temperatures, Kuzniar’s re-telling of ‘Swan Lake’ was magical and haunting. I felt as invested in the story as Forster was with finding a solution, revelling in the flashbacks of the enchanting theatrical spectacle that is linked to Forster’s tale.
This read is perfect for snuggling up in the winter evenings, especially as the plot is so weather-dependent. The writing is beautiful and captivating; I was engrossed by the tragic fairy tale that saw romance mixed with magic. Kuzniar’s slow pace at the beginning just helped set the scene for a book that uses the passage of time as a countdown. Whilst life continues to move around him, it is like Forster is trapped and forever waiting.
I loved this magical tale and the gothic foundations. It was a great read and well-written. If you are after a winter’s tale, then look no further.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The more I read of this book, the more spell-bound I became. This is a tragic love story woven in history with a bit of gothic thrown in there as well. At first I thought I would not like it because the plot moves so slowly but, as the mystery of the glamourous parties becomes unravelled, I felt as addicted as Forster.
Forster’s relationship is an addiction and I loved how he attempted to resist temptation. Yet, he is haunted by the woman he sees at these apparently random parties. The way that Kuzniar describes these gatherings are exotic and lavish. I loved the magic and fantasy elements that come through yet at the same time, Forster’s loneliness and isolation as an outsider becomes more prevalent at these events. It is one of these parties that changes Forster forever.
There is an increasing sense of urgency as the novel progresses. Solving a mystery, a curse and desiring the winter temperatures, Kuzniar’s re-telling of ‘Swan Lake’ was magical and haunting. I felt as invested in the story as Forster was with finding a solution, revelling in the flashbacks of the enchanting theatrical spectacle that is linked to Forster’s tale.
This read is perfect for snuggling up in the winter evenings, especially as the plot is so weather-dependent. The writing is beautiful and captivating; I was engrossed by the tragic fairy tale that saw romance mixed with magic. Kuzniar’s slow pace at the beginning just helped set the scene for a book that uses the passage of time as a countdown. Whilst life continues to move around him, it is like Forster is trapped and forever waiting.
I loved this magical tale and the gothic foundations. It was a great read and well-written. If you are after a winter’s tale, then look no further.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2023
So much potential but it ended up being not as good as expected.
The plot keeps going in circles and the repetitive pattern is annoying. Painting, parties, dreams. repeat.
You could sense the inspiration of the Great Gatsby additionally to Swan Lake. The author tried to depict ambition and parties but it lacked the spark to ignite it. The descriptions too seemed similar and never did they capture my attention or bedazzled me.
The timeline stretches on several years but I don’t think the writing captured the passing of time. Some events had to be regular occurrences like Forster’s birthdays but not the rest.
From the beginning, I was much more invested in Rose’s and Marvin’s story that I didn’t really care for the ballerina. The first encounter is a complete miss! I was surprised by Forster’s obsession with her because it didn’t read as THE moment when he met her!
The characters are all so bland! I was first glad that the main voice was a man’s but it lacked depth. His family history serves as suspense in the first part and there’s actually nothing more to it! He paints, he is estranged from his family and he loves the ballerina… those are his sole traits!
Detta’s chapters arrive too late and were honestly kind of useless! We don’t have the answers we seek until the very end, sort of.
It scratched the surface of many things I like: retellings, lyrical descriptions, art, tragical love, found family etc but it wasn’t good enough imo.
Midnight in Everwood was way more graphic and magical! I’m used to reading books with lush descriptions, slow plots and atmospheric writing. That was not it.
2.7
The plot keeps going in circles and the repetitive pattern is annoying. Painting, parties, dreams. repeat.
You could sense the inspiration of the Great Gatsby additionally to Swan Lake. The author tried to depict ambition and parties but it lacked the spark to ignite it. The descriptions too seemed similar and never did they capture my attention or bedazzled me.
The timeline stretches on several years but I don’t think the writing captured the passing of time. Some events had to be regular occurrences like Forster’s birthdays but not the rest.
From the beginning, I was much more invested in Rose’s and Marvin’s story that I didn’t really care for the ballerina. The first encounter is a complete miss! I was surprised by Forster’s obsession with her because it didn’t read as THE moment when he met her!
The characters are all so bland! I was first glad that the main voice was a man’s but it lacked depth. His family history serves as suspense in the first part and there’s actually nothing more to it! He paints, he is estranged from his family and he loves the ballerina… those are his sole traits!
Detta’s chapters arrive too late and were honestly kind of useless! We don’t have the answers we seek until the very end, sort of.
It scratched the surface of many things I like: retellings, lyrical descriptions, art, tragical love, found family etc but it wasn’t good enough imo.
Midnight in Everwood was way more graphic and magical! I’m used to reading books with lush descriptions, slow plots and atmospheric writing. That was not it.
2.7
August 18, 2023
— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Upon A Frosted Star
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): M. A. Kuzniar
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Historical Fantasy/Fairytale/Romance
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 21st September 2023
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝: 18th August 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★
”‘You promised that you would never fall in love with me.’ Detta’s gaze turned searching. Forster hesitated, uncertainty warring within him.
‘I’ll break your heart,’ she whispered.
‘It’s mine to risk,’ he told her.”
Two years ago I finished Midnight In Everwood and have been starved for more of Kuzniar’s writing and world building ever since. Midnight In Everwood was my favourite read of 2021, even leading me to name my Animal Crossing island Everwood! It had a huge impact on me and I fell in love with it, which made Upon A Frosted Star one of my most anticipated reads of the year.
Whilst Midnight In Everwood is mainly a book about female friendship, Upon A Frosted Star is a romance that could make the stars collide. I loved Kuzniar’s adult debt for a multitude of reasons and though this novel is different, the authors writing still captures that same magical feeling I felt when reading Everwood, the same feeling where I feel like there’s more to the world than mundanity and magic is everywhere if you know what to look for.
Upon A Frosted Star is a historical fantasy described as The Great Gatsby meets Swan Lake, which is so wonderfully fitting. Whilst Everwood is a retelling of The Nutcracker, Upon A Frosted Star captures the heart achingly beautiful spirit of the Swan Princess fairy tale. A mysterious ballerina who only appears at snowfall and the besotted artist who continues to paint and search for her. It’s so incredibly romantic I could weep!
”‘You are extraordinary, and I could no more regret meeting you than the sun could regret her shine.’”
As hoped and expected, this book is magical, wondrous, and full of lush and descriptive writing that makes me crave sugar and winter. I think that Upon A Frosted Star has less tangible magic in this story compared to Everwood, but I felt the fairy tale like quality was deeper, richer, and more ingrained within the story.
Upon A Frosted Star does tie in ever so slightly with Midnight In Everwood, Upon A Frosted Star is set mainly in the 1920s with flashbacks to 1912 whilst Midnight In Everwood begins in 1906. There’s also passing mentions of Marietta Stelle and Dr Drosselmeir.
Whilst Upon A Frosted Star is mainly set in and around London, there is a section mentioning Wales which got me ridiculously excited! There may not be magical worlds in this book, but sometimes the only magic we need is found at home.
I feel like this review has done nothing but compare Kuzniar’s adult debut with this newest release when Upon A Frosted Star does stand on its own merit. I simply adore everything about both novels. Upon A Frosted Star holds the excitable Great Gatsby-esque parties that seem imbued with true magic. It captures the gorgeously savage magic of the ballet. And most of all, it is a love story that leaves the real world feeling inadequate to my tender heart.
—Kayleigh🤍
♡Booksta
♡Twitter
♡Threads
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Upon A Frosted Star
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): M. A. Kuzniar
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Historical Fantasy/Fairytale/Romance
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 21st September 2023
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝: 18th August 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★
”‘You promised that you would never fall in love with me.’ Detta’s gaze turned searching. Forster hesitated, uncertainty warring within him.
‘I’ll break your heart,’ she whispered.
‘It’s mine to risk,’ he told her.”
Two years ago I finished Midnight In Everwood and have been starved for more of Kuzniar’s writing and world building ever since. Midnight In Everwood was my favourite read of 2021, even leading me to name my Animal Crossing island Everwood! It had a huge impact on me and I fell in love with it, which made Upon A Frosted Star one of my most anticipated reads of the year.
Whilst Midnight In Everwood is mainly a book about female friendship, Upon A Frosted Star is a romance that could make the stars collide. I loved Kuzniar’s adult debt for a multitude of reasons and though this novel is different, the authors writing still captures that same magical feeling I felt when reading Everwood, the same feeling where I feel like there’s more to the world than mundanity and magic is everywhere if you know what to look for.
Upon A Frosted Star is a historical fantasy described as The Great Gatsby meets Swan Lake, which is so wonderfully fitting. Whilst Everwood is a retelling of The Nutcracker, Upon A Frosted Star captures the heart achingly beautiful spirit of the Swan Princess fairy tale. A mysterious ballerina who only appears at snowfall and the besotted artist who continues to paint and search for her. It’s so incredibly romantic I could weep!
”‘You are extraordinary, and I could no more regret meeting you than the sun could regret her shine.’”
As hoped and expected, this book is magical, wondrous, and full of lush and descriptive writing that makes me crave sugar and winter. I think that Upon A Frosted Star has less tangible magic in this story compared to Everwood, but I felt the fairy tale like quality was deeper, richer, and more ingrained within the story.
Upon A Frosted Star does tie in ever so slightly with Midnight In Everwood, Upon A Frosted Star is set mainly in the 1920s with flashbacks to 1912 whilst Midnight In Everwood begins in 1906. There’s also passing mentions of Marietta Stelle and Dr Drosselmeir.
Whilst Upon A Frosted Star is mainly set in and around London, there is a section mentioning Wales which got me ridiculously excited! There may not be magical worlds in this book, but sometimes the only magic we need is found at home.
I feel like this review has done nothing but compare Kuzniar’s adult debut with this newest release when Upon A Frosted Star does stand on its own merit. I simply adore everything about both novels. Upon A Frosted Star holds the excitable Great Gatsby-esque parties that seem imbued with true magic. It captures the gorgeously savage magic of the ballet. And most of all, it is a love story that leaves the real world feeling inadequate to my tender heart.
—Kayleigh🤍
♡Booksta
♡Threads
December 9, 2023
A wonderful winter read which is perfect to read when it snows outside. The entire tale was full of mystery until the last pages and I enjoyed the flow of the story. I also feel that the spirit of the time and the great gatsby spirit was nicely captured. Loved it! However, I think the grand finale could have been a tad more dramatic :)
January 24, 2024
I was looking forward to reading this book so much and it sadly left me feeling really flat.
It started off really well. We had a male pov, which I haven't come across loads in fantasy books, so that was refreshing and the initial set up with the magical, enchanting party that happens once a year was great, however the plot quickly became quite repetitive and dare I say, boring? This also may, in part, have been due to the very slow pacing.
Forster, unfortunately, did not strike me as a strong enough or interesting enough character to carry the story and he didn't have enough depth or development. For example, we knew he had been estranged from his family, but this only worked to explain his presence in London with Daisy and Marvin and didn't seem to actually influence his character in any real way.
Speaking of Daisy and Marvin, it was nice to have other characters to read about other than Forster, but they didn't particularly serve any true purpose in the story, since Forster didn't take them into his confidence until quite close to the end. Marvin was clearly designed to be a secondary antagonist, but didn't really come across as anything other than a jealous, spiteful individual, who got a very convenient redemption arc towards the end.
Sadly, there was nowhere near enough about Detta or Rothbart. Dettas' chapters, where she explores her history were reasonably interesting and entertaining, but I feel like both she and her chapters could have been fleshed out a bit more. In regards to Rothbart, he was nowhere near a strong enough villain for the story. I think the story could have really benefitted from some chapters from his pov and perhaps a stronger motive. He never felt terrifying, cruel or antagonistic enough and there never felt like there was enough suspense or danger around him.
My final big issue with this book was that there was never enough urgency surrounding Dettas' situation. Forster finds out very early on that he is on a time crunch, yet spends the majority of the book wasting time painting and staying nearby for Detta instead of looking for a solution. He just seems really blasé about the whole thing and as a result, there is no real sense of jeopardy, which leaves the story feeling bland and uninteresting.
The book was ok and I definitely liked Detta as a character, as well as the enchanting party settings she created. The writing of those scenes in particular was beautiful, visual and I could just feel the wonder and enchantment, but sadly, this didn't hit the mark for me and fell short of it's predecessor.
It started off really well. We had a male pov, which I haven't come across loads in fantasy books, so that was refreshing and the initial set up with the magical, enchanting party that happens once a year was great, however the plot quickly became quite repetitive and dare I say, boring? This also may, in part, have been due to the very slow pacing.
Forster, unfortunately, did not strike me as a strong enough or interesting enough character to carry the story and he didn't have enough depth or development. For example, we knew he had been estranged from his family, but this only worked to explain his presence in London with Daisy and Marvin and didn't seem to actually influence his character in any real way.
Speaking of Daisy and Marvin, it was nice to have other characters to read about other than Forster, but they didn't particularly serve any true purpose in the story, since Forster didn't take them into his confidence until quite close to the end. Marvin was clearly designed to be a secondary antagonist, but didn't really come across as anything other than a jealous, spiteful individual, who got a very convenient redemption arc towards the end.
Sadly, there was nowhere near enough about Detta or Rothbart. Dettas' chapters, where she explores her history were reasonably interesting and entertaining, but I feel like both she and her chapters could have been fleshed out a bit more. In regards to Rothbart, he was nowhere near a strong enough villain for the story. I think the story could have really benefitted from some chapters from his pov and perhaps a stronger motive. He never felt terrifying, cruel or antagonistic enough and there never felt like there was enough suspense or danger around him.
My final big issue with this book was that there was never enough urgency surrounding Dettas' situation. Forster finds out very early on that he is on a time crunch, yet spends the majority of the book wasting time painting and staying nearby for Detta instead of looking for a solution. He just seems really blasé about the whole thing and as a result, there is no real sense of jeopardy, which leaves the story feeling bland and uninteresting.
The book was ok and I definitely liked Detta as a character, as well as the enchanting party settings she created. The writing of those scenes in particular was beautiful, visual and I could just feel the wonder and enchantment, but sadly, this didn't hit the mark for me and fell short of it's predecessor.
November 6, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Wow - I haven't read this author's first book, but now I am so desperate to, because this was some of the most gorgeous, evocative writing that I have ever read. I thought it was incredibly magical, it's the perfect wintery book (I felt completely immersed in this frosty, sparkling version of the 1900s). I would love to attend one of these mysterious events, they sound incredible and even just the way the author describes food is stunning. Everything was so decadent, and I just loved this world.
The characters I have to say, were a little... lacklustre, in comparison. I did like them, but sometimes, particularly Forster, I struggled to feel any of his emotions; he felt quite subdued, and even more so when you place him next to the vibrant Detta, or even his friends Marvin and Rose, as you could easily feel the tension and pining between them.
I would absolutely recommend this however; it was compelling, immersive, and the stunning imagery alone makes this worth reading. I also really want to go and see a ballet performance now!
Wow - I haven't read this author's first book, but now I am so desperate to, because this was some of the most gorgeous, evocative writing that I have ever read. I thought it was incredibly magical, it's the perfect wintery book (I felt completely immersed in this frosty, sparkling version of the 1900s). I would love to attend one of these mysterious events, they sound incredible and even just the way the author describes food is stunning. Everything was so decadent, and I just loved this world.
The characters I have to say, were a little... lacklustre, in comparison. I did like them, but sometimes, particularly Forster, I struggled to feel any of his emotions; he felt quite subdued, and even more so when you place him next to the vibrant Detta, or even his friends Marvin and Rose, as you could easily feel the tension and pining between them.
I would absolutely recommend this however; it was compelling, immersive, and the stunning imagery alone makes this worth reading. I also really want to go and see a ballet performance now!
March 14, 2024
Original thoughts:
Hope to come back with a coherent review but gorgeous? stunning?? scrumptious and dark and poetic??? 5 stars I think but so many thoughts ahhhhh
Final review:
It took me ages to finish reading this book, but I am so thankful I took the time to slow down. “Upon a Frosted Star” is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. I delighted in every delectable bite, every poetic line, every stunning setting. This book is full of color and pain, poetry and melancholy. It’s intimate and peaceful and lyrical. I may have only read less than 400 pages, but I attended every luxurious party thrown, danced in every snowstorm, and longingly waited for the return of the swan like I belonged between the pages. This story is such a perfect combination of “The Great Gatsby” and “Swan Lake” while still being it’s own magical story and I loved it so much. 5 stars hands down.
Hope to come back with a coherent review but gorgeous? stunning?? scrumptious and dark and poetic??? 5 stars I think but so many thoughts ahhhhh
Final review:
It took me ages to finish reading this book, but I am so thankful I took the time to slow down. “Upon a Frosted Star” is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. I delighted in every delectable bite, every poetic line, every stunning setting. This book is full of color and pain, poetry and melancholy. It’s intimate and peaceful and lyrical. I may have only read less than 400 pages, but I attended every luxurious party thrown, danced in every snowstorm, and longingly waited for the return of the swan like I belonged between the pages. This story is such a perfect combination of “The Great Gatsby” and “Swan Lake” while still being it’s own magical story and I loved it so much. 5 stars hands down.
January 5, 2024
Sorry folks, if you liked this book, this review is not for you. I… have no words for how upset I am with this book? The pacing was so off… it started off slow and was 2 stars for the longest time, then picked up and was 3 stars, and then the ending plummeted it down to a 1.5 star. Honestly the 0.5 comes from the fact that I love the cover so much. Forster is such a pick me. Detta has like no personality? We should have left the insta-love trope behind in 2012. This book was the perfect example of purple prose (and not in a good way). And WTF was that ending? For what purpose? Why??? I dragged myself through this whole book for what?? And there’s no actual explanation? UGH! I’m big mad. Not for me.
January 14, 2024
**4,25/5**
September 22, 2023
I loved the idea of a book based around Swan Lake.
Just like the ballet there are star crossed lovers who have to defeat an evil magician. Kuzniar’s books are essentially fairy tales for adults. Just like all fairy tells, dark and bad things can and do happen to characters.
I was really rooting for the lovers, and it became a bit of a page turner towards the end. I’m looking forward to seeing what other readers thought but I was personally disappointed with the ending and found it a bit of a cop-out and very fast. I could think of a much better ending, that still fitted with the authors final philosophy but that would also have been more satisfying for those that love the ballet.
Other than the ending it was a very enjoyable read. Even the new epilogue that’s been added to the final version doesn’t satisfy.
Just like the ballet there are star crossed lovers who have to defeat an evil magician. Kuzniar’s books are essentially fairy tales for adults. Just like all fairy tells, dark and bad things can and do happen to characters.
I was really rooting for the lovers, and it became a bit of a page turner towards the end. I’m looking forward to seeing what other readers thought but I was personally disappointed with the ending and found it a bit of a cop-out and very fast. I could think of a much better ending, that still fitted with the authors final philosophy but that would also have been more satisfying for those that love the ballet.
Other than the ending it was a very enjoyable read. Even the new epilogue that’s been added to the final version doesn’t satisfy.
April 10, 2023
I wanted to love this - after all, what a beautiful cover - but I really didn't. The writing is on the verge of purple prose, clichéd and sadly unconvincing.
The characters were bland and two-dimensional and the plot really lagged. I skimmed through to the end but found even that hard going.
Looking forward to seeing the reactions of more readers. It may just be that this is not my genre of choice and many people go on to love it.
The characters were bland and two-dimensional and the plot really lagged. I skimmed through to the end but found even that hard going.
Looking forward to seeing the reactions of more readers. It may just be that this is not my genre of choice and many people go on to love it.
December 7, 2023
My Mum always told me that if I can’t say anything nice I should say nothing at all. Therefore, I will be saying nothing at all.
July 2, 2024
I was told this was a romantic “fairytale”. Lies. I’m going to need time to process this story. On another note, Forster is such a romantic and kind person 🥹♥️
*Recommend in Audiobook
*Recommend in Audiobook
August 13, 2024
This book was fun. It was slow at times and a lot of it was repetitive, but it ended exactly how I wanted it to. Fun
March 13, 2023
Thank you to Kuzniar and HQ Stories for sending me an ARC for an honest review.
This book made me forget I was reading. This was so beautifully written. The magic and the descriptions were so breathtaking.
Things I loved;
✨️The imagery
✨️The magic
✨️The romance - a cursed and impossible love
✨️I had The Notebook vibes in the end
✨️I can see the Great Gatsby and Swan Lake come together in perfect harmony.. beautiful
✨️The friendship between Forster, Rose, and Marvin - filled with banter and drama
✨️Mystery solving !!
✨️Dual POV (1st in Hers, set flashbacks, 3rd in His)
The main theme I sensed throughout this book was loneliness and how art and dancing helped our main characters find each other and understood each other. Their story soans over 4 years during every winter, every snowfall.... little but precious time for our two loves.
"𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙧 𝙢𝙚."
𝘿𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨. "𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙙."
"𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚,' 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮. " 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙖 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨." 𝙃𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧.
The ending was so unexpected, and it'll be one that will stay with me.
I loved how Kuzniar mentioned (though briefly) a character from her previous book, Midnight in Everwood.. very clever !!
I thought it had a slow pace in some places, and I didn't like how the three friends drifted apart halfway through.
This book made me forget I was reading. This was so beautifully written. The magic and the descriptions were so breathtaking.
Things I loved;
✨️The imagery
✨️The magic
✨️The romance - a cursed and impossible love
✨️I had The Notebook vibes in the end
✨️I can see the Great Gatsby and Swan Lake come together in perfect harmony.. beautiful
✨️The friendship between Forster, Rose, and Marvin - filled with banter and drama
✨️Mystery solving !!
✨️Dual POV (1st in Hers, set flashbacks, 3rd in His)
The main theme I sensed throughout this book was loneliness and how art and dancing helped our main characters find each other and understood each other. Their story soans over 4 years during every winter, every snowfall.... little but precious time for our two loves.
"𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙧 𝙢𝙚."
𝘿𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨. "𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙙."
"𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚,' 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮. " 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙖 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨." 𝙃𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧.
The ending was so unexpected, and it'll be one that will stay with me.
I loved how Kuzniar mentioned (though briefly) a character from her previous book, Midnight in Everwood.. very clever !!
I thought it had a slow pace in some places, and I didn't like how the three friends drifted apart halfway through.
May 15, 2024
This one wasn’t my favorite retelling. If you enjoy YA retellings and combining of stories then this one might be perfect for you. Lots of Gatsby to be had with glamorous parties and lavash characters. The storylines blend well and while it wasn’t my favorite it might be yours. I recommend giving this one a try.
May 19, 2023
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
The concept of this book was so intruiging! It felt like a magical retelling of the Swan Princess. But it fell a bit flat for me.
The magical elements were there and the story strong. The setting was also beautifully written and it made me all the more excited for the read as I could really imagine myself there.
However, the characters felt quite underdeveloped and somewhat flat. I wish more work had gone into creating more rich back stories that wove into the plot.
Which takes me to my second point. The pacing, which started of good, but that I then struggled with throughout the book. It just felt like there was a great main story but so much filler content that it made me a bit annoyed when reading.
Overall it is an alright read, I'm just sad it didn't live up to its expectations as I was very excited about the premiss of this book.
The concept of this book was so intruiging! It felt like a magical retelling of the Swan Princess. But it fell a bit flat for me.
The magical elements were there and the story strong. The setting was also beautifully written and it made me all the more excited for the read as I could really imagine myself there.
However, the characters felt quite underdeveloped and somewhat flat. I wish more work had gone into creating more rich back stories that wove into the plot.
Which takes me to my second point. The pacing, which started of good, but that I then struggled with throughout the book. It just felt like there was a great main story but so much filler content that it made me a bit annoyed when reading.
Overall it is an alright read, I'm just sad it didn't live up to its expectations as I was very excited about the premiss of this book.
January 5, 2024
I wanted to love this book but I’m super disappointed :/
A magical great gatsby/swan lake romance novel is literally my dream cosy winter read. Don’t get me wrong, the concept is totally enchanting, but the delivery is so weak. It’s full of clichés and cringey metaphors that felt so forced to me.
I found the relationships (in particular the romance) to be unconvincing and the ending rushed and anticlimactic.
Odette’s POV were my favourite chapters, but they were few and far between.
I need somebody to rewrite this novel with the exact same premise in a totally different style please!!!
A magical great gatsby/swan lake romance novel is literally my dream cosy winter read. Don’t get me wrong, the concept is totally enchanting, but the delivery is so weak. It’s full of clichés and cringey metaphors that felt so forced to me.
I found the relationships (in particular the romance) to be unconvincing and the ending rushed and anticlimactic.
Odette’s POV were my favourite chapters, but they were few and far between.
I need somebody to rewrite this novel with the exact same premise in a totally different style please!!!
December 9, 2023
Send help I'm in love with this
June 4, 2024
So sad but such a beautiful story. My eyes hurted after reading this 😭 the relationship between Forster and Detta was so adorable and so many good quotes…
December 31, 2023
I swear there was more focus on the subplot than the actual plot of this book, and that's only when it wasn't busy having nothing happen for 200 pages
May 15, 2024
Loved this book. Very unusual.... But oh so sweet. What a lovely story 💛💛
January 14, 2024
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this, but I feel quite mixed about it. I was really looking forward to it after reading Midnight in Everwood, but I definitely think my enjoyment of this book paled in comparison to that one. This did have a nice wintery atmosphere, though, and if you liked Midnight in Everwood, definitely give this a try.
I think the main problem for me was that I didn't really connect with the characters. Forster was sweet, and I enjoyed seeing him grow as an artist, but there wasn't really much else about him that drew me in. Detta had an interesting story, but for some reason, I just wasn't really invested in her as a character. I wanted more of her history and how she navigated her curse, but I don't think we got enough detail. Rose and Malvin felt like spare parts after Forster finally found Detta, which frustrated me. I think maybe if Forster's friendship with them had been developed a bit more, I might have connected to him a bit more. I did enjoy the relationship between Forster and Detta. There were some really sweet aspects to it, and I was rooting for them, but again, not overly invested.
I also think that the mystery and magic of the lavish parties were broken way too quickly. It was the aspect that initially drew me in, and I felt underwhelmed when we saw behind the curtain. I wanted to spend more time in the magical, mystifying parties, but I felt like once Forster found Detta, they were mostly forgotten about. I felt the same about the magic, I just wanted more. I think I would have liked it if we had spent some more time with Rothbart, exploring his history with Detta and the other ballerinas, delving into his magic.
Kuzniar's writing is lush and atmospheric and definitely the strongest aspect of this story. She is great at giving the story a fairy tale vibe with the prose, and the wintery vibes were lovely.
The ending was also another aspect I didn't love. Not only did it feel a bit rushed, but it also just annoyed me because it made the whole journey feel so pointless. If I had been more connected to the characters and their relationship, I think I wouldn't have felt that way as much, but since I wasn't really invested in them, it just didn't really hit. I did like how dark the ending was and how Kuzniar stayed true to the dark fairy tale influences of the story, but I think the rest of the book needed some more development for it to really work for me.
Overall, I did like this book, and I will definitely read from the author again, I'm just not sure this one will really stick with me. I did like the writing and the vibes, and I'm glad I read it during winter.
I enjoyed this, but I feel quite mixed about it. I was really looking forward to it after reading Midnight in Everwood, but I definitely think my enjoyment of this book paled in comparison to that one. This did have a nice wintery atmosphere, though, and if you liked Midnight in Everwood, definitely give this a try.
I think the main problem for me was that I didn't really connect with the characters. Forster was sweet, and I enjoyed seeing him grow as an artist, but there wasn't really much else about him that drew me in. Detta had an interesting story, but for some reason, I just wasn't really invested in her as a character. I wanted more of her history and how she navigated her curse, but I don't think we got enough detail. Rose and Malvin felt like spare parts after Forster finally found Detta, which frustrated me. I think maybe if Forster's friendship with them had been developed a bit more, I might have connected to him a bit more. I did enjoy the relationship between Forster and Detta. There were some really sweet aspects to it, and I was rooting for them, but again, not overly invested.
I also think that the mystery and magic of the lavish parties were broken way too quickly. It was the aspect that initially drew me in, and I felt underwhelmed when we saw behind the curtain. I wanted to spend more time in the magical, mystifying parties, but I felt like once Forster found Detta, they were mostly forgotten about. I felt the same about the magic, I just wanted more. I think I would have liked it if we had spent some more time with Rothbart, exploring his history with Detta and the other ballerinas, delving into his magic.
Kuzniar's writing is lush and atmospheric and definitely the strongest aspect of this story. She is great at giving the story a fairy tale vibe with the prose, and the wintery vibes were lovely.
The ending was also another aspect I didn't love. Not only did it feel a bit rushed, but it also just annoyed me because it made the whole journey feel so pointless. If I had been more connected to the characters and their relationship, I think I wouldn't have felt that way as much, but since I wasn't really invested in them, it just didn't really hit. I did like how dark the ending was and how Kuzniar stayed true to the dark fairy tale influences of the story, but I think the rest of the book needed some more development for it to really work for me.
Overall, I did like this book, and I will definitely read from the author again, I'm just not sure this one will really stick with me. I did like the writing and the vibes, and I'm glad I read it during winter.
October 3, 2023
3.5⭐ A magical blend of The Great Gatsby and Swan Lake filled with mystery, intrigue and an almost gothic undertone.
Thank you so much to Netgalley, HQ and the author for sending me a review copy of this book. Here is my honest and unbiased review.
Having seen a couple of ballets including The Nutcracker and Swan Lake as a child and enjoying the author's previous and similarly magical book, Midnight in Everwood, I was excited to read Upon a Frosted Star. As described, this is a blend The Great Gatsby and Swan Lake with Detta, the ballerina turned swan character that draws from the Swan Lake story also serving as a gender-swapped Gatsby: the mysterious and faceless host of grand, magic filled parties that only happen once a year. The author brilliantly uses magical realism to blend the two, capturing the glittering decadance and mystery of Gatsby with the hauntingly beautiful yet twisted Swan Lake and captivating the reader.
I enjoyed the book and the pacing and liked the romance between the main characters but would have loved to have had more of Detta's POV. The world was beautifully created and Rothbard was as sinister and manipualtive as his namesake but I would have liked to see more of his past and to have delved more into the magic itself. I could really feel the emotions of the characters and at times the book was so heartbreaking I cried which is always a sign of a book being executed well.
This was set to have a higher rating however, for me, the ending felt quite quick, rushed almost, and it wasn't the satsifying end I wanted. I think I also reduced my rating of Midnight in Everwood for this same reason (although the ending being unsatisfying is more to do with my personal preference than a critique of the ending itself)
Thank you so much to Netgalley, HQ and the author for sending me a review copy of this book. Here is my honest and unbiased review.
Having seen a couple of ballets including The Nutcracker and Swan Lake as a child and enjoying the author's previous and similarly magical book, Midnight in Everwood, I was excited to read Upon a Frosted Star. As described, this is a blend The Great Gatsby and Swan Lake with Detta, the ballerina turned swan character that draws from the Swan Lake story also serving as a gender-swapped Gatsby: the mysterious and faceless host of grand, magic filled parties that only happen once a year. The author brilliantly uses magical realism to blend the two, capturing the glittering decadance and mystery of Gatsby with the hauntingly beautiful yet twisted Swan Lake and captivating the reader.
I enjoyed the book and the pacing and liked the romance between the main characters but would have loved to have had more of Detta's POV. The world was beautifully created and Rothbard was as sinister and manipualtive as his namesake but I would have liked to see more of his past and to have delved more into the magic itself. I could really feel the emotions of the characters and at times the book was so heartbreaking I cried which is always a sign of a book being executed well.
This was set to have a higher rating however, for me, the ending felt quite quick, rushed almost, and it wasn't the satsifying end I wanted. I think I also reduced my rating of Midnight in Everwood for this same reason (although the ending being unsatisfying is more to do with my personal preference than a critique of the ending itself)
September 21, 2023
1920s London & Forster, struggling artist, finds an invitation to the most glamorous party of the year held by a reclusive & mysterious host. Upon appearance of the first proper snowfall of the year, the invitations appear without warning, simply inscribed with ‘Tonight’ & a clue to the theme. Forster attends the party with his flatmate, Marvin, & their friend, Rose & it's as magical as he could ever have dreamt. When he catches sight of a beautiful dancer who then disappears without trace, Forster knows that she is his muse & he vows to find out who she is. His search leads him to an abandoned manor house with a lake & a swan who sadly swims alone.
I absolutely loved the author's previous book, Midnight in Everwood, so I was so pleased to get a chance to read & review this reimagining of Swan Lake. The author still has that sumptuous turn of phrase (which can be an acquired taste), & the food is described so deliciously that I always crave a piece of cake or chocolate after reading. The cover is also lovely. The main issue with this for me was that Forster, the main narrator is a bit, well, boring. Detta's chapters fly by as her character is vibrant but Forster's are the same thing over & over: paint a bit, search for the party invite, attend the party, look for Detta, & repeat. They are a perfect representation of "She's everything, He's just Ken". It made the story not as compelling as Midnight in Everwood which is a shame. The ending was also a little abrupt - all that build-up & just a short epilogue.
Thanks to NetGalley & publishers, HQ, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
I absolutely loved the author's previous book, Midnight in Everwood, so I was so pleased to get a chance to read & review this reimagining of Swan Lake. The author still has that sumptuous turn of phrase (which can be an acquired taste), & the food is described so deliciously that I always crave a piece of cake or chocolate after reading. The cover is also lovely. The main issue with this for me was that Forster, the main narrator is a bit, well, boring. Detta's chapters fly by as her character is vibrant but Forster's are the same thing over & over: paint a bit, search for the party invite, attend the party, look for Detta, & repeat. They are a perfect representation of "She's everything, He's just Ken". It made the story not as compelling as Midnight in Everwood which is a shame. The ending was also a little abrupt - all that build-up & just a short epilogue.
Thanks to NetGalley & publishers, HQ, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
October 3, 2023
This story was such a pretty idea. It wasn't perfectly executed, but I still really enjoyed it.
The premise, imagery and characters were the story's strong point. I cared about everyone in the story (whether I was rooting for them or hoping for their downfall). They acted on motivations that were clear and made sense. Even the 'good' characters had their moments of making bad choices and it added to their relationships.
Where I found myself disappointed with the story was in the plot. There were elements that never quite got resolved of fully explored (Forster's family issues, the reason the illusionist finally stopped performing or the details of his magic & history). Other parts of the story were resolved, but still didn't quite satisfy (the confrontation with the villain didn't feel very climactic to me, and the ending didn't have the weight I'd expected it too). I'm not entirely sure what the problem was (the pacing, perhaps?) but the events didn't hang together quite right. The ending had all the ingredients to be really emotionally impactful, but I wasn't hugely affected. Lastly, the writing was not quite as beautiful as a story like this needs. It wasn't bad at all - it just didn't have the glitter to enhance the story or descriptions.
Despite my minor complaints, I would recommend the tale - especially to anyone who likes ballet, romance and a sprinkling of fantasy.
The premise, imagery and characters were the story's strong point. I cared about everyone in the story (whether I was rooting for them or hoping for their downfall). They acted on motivations that were clear and made sense. Even the 'good' characters had their moments of making bad choices and it added to their relationships.
Where I found myself disappointed with the story was in the plot. There were elements that never quite got resolved of fully explored (Forster's family issues, the reason the illusionist finally stopped performing or the details of his magic & history). Other parts of the story were resolved, but still didn't quite satisfy (the confrontation with the villain didn't feel very climactic to me, and the ending didn't have the weight I'd expected it too). I'm not entirely sure what the problem was (the pacing, perhaps?) but the events didn't hang together quite right. The ending had all the ingredients to be really emotionally impactful, but I wasn't hugely affected. Lastly, the writing was not quite as beautiful as a story like this needs. It wasn't bad at all - it just didn't have the glitter to enhance the story or descriptions.
Despite my minor complaints, I would recommend the tale - especially to anyone who likes ballet, romance and a sprinkling of fantasy.
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