Omen of Ice (Omen of Ice #1)

The druids of the Aphelian order have been sworn to protect the members of the Winter Court ever since war between the courts resulted in the diminishment of all Fae magic except for that of the Winter Court Fae. When 18-year-old druid Keltania is called to serve, her charge Valen—the violet-eyed, ice-magic-wielding nephew of the Winter Lord—would rather drink and party than be coddled by a glorified babysitter. But a magical misstep meant to offer Valen protection mystically links the Fae and Keltania; through this link, the duo share emotions and power, and they must soon leave the castle in order to break their bond as perilous circumstances and hidden secrets threaten the lives of druid and Fae alike. A focus on over-the-top character interactions and banter overshadows worldbuilding, resulting in a generic-feeling fantasy. Still, this series starter by Accardo (Transcendent), by turns adventurous and romantic, offers a plethora of romantasy scenarios carried by its leads’ undeniable chemistry, an ambient setting, and amorous storytelling. Characters read as white. Ages 14–up. Agent: Nicole Resciniti, Seymour Agency. (Aug.)