Although I am the author the review posted below is by fantasy book review for my book. The original review can be seen on their website or the website of my publishers, along with many other reviews. Regards Sean Beech
For nearly three hundred years now the Moon lands have known peace. But the Ice Crown of Man been stolen and also the Ancient Howl of the Fennigan Wolves. Their theft robs both races of the power to unite their peoples! But who is responsible; the mysterious Fey; the magical Mages or the lands' erstwhile enemy, the dreaded Dark Knights?
The Ice Crown blew me away; full to the brim with much that is fresh and original. Sean Beech showcases an imagination that sets him apart from the mainstream; this is a work of exemplary style and substance. Robin Hobb is an author that I hold in the highest regard, one of the finest exponents of character-driven fantasy. Sean Beech does not pale by comparison.
The story opens well and we are quickly and efficiently introduced to the major characters in the story, characters that are instantly lifelike and well realised. This is a strength that helps the reader to become quickly drawn into the Land of the Moon and the events that have, and will, transpire. The Ice Crown is, as already mentioned, very strong on characterisation; there is not a weak character to be found - we have Morkin; the level headed and kind-hearted prince; Luxor, his powerful and loyal protector and friend. Add to this an unforgettable fat tax collector called Grabbit and the carefree 150-year-old mage called Ranabin and you have the foundations upon which this fine tale unfolds.
After the fine opening I thought The Ice Crown might settle down into the regular fantasy formula... I was wrong. It was here that the author impressed me most with the introduction to the story of the wolves, or to give them their full title, the Wolves of Fennigan - an intelligent race, capable of speech, and integral to the story. It was moments like this that made the book so enjoyable - just when you thought you had a handle on the story the author goes up another gear and surprises and delights in equal measure.
"So they had hunted, like they had in the past, before man had come to these lands. They had stalked their prey, keeping downwind to close the distance. Smelling it, delighting in its scent and the taste it would surely bring to their hungry mouths when they finally caught it."
The Ice Crown: Chapter 4
The motives behind the writing of this book (see below) are admirable. I would recommend this book very, very highly to any fantasy fan.
50% of the author's profits from the sale of this book will be donated to the independent charity, the National Literacy Trust; to help change lives through literacy. Sean Beech believes that every child and adult should be encouraged and supported in his or her desire to learn and read.
"I am determined in whatever way I can to help improve the reading standards for all in this country, and to that end 50% of my profits from the sale of this and any future works will be donated to charities involved solely in the pursuit of this goal."