In M.A. Kuzniar's Upon a Frosted Star, a captivating reimagining of Swan Lake for the winter season, artist Forster finds himself drawn into a world of mystery and magic. An enigmatic invitation to a lavish annual party leads him to a secluded manor and a cursed woman desperately seeking freedom. This spellbinding tale, blending the glamour of The Great Gatsby with the timeless romance of Swan Lake, unfolds amidst the falling snow. Kuzniar, the bestselling author of Midnight in Everwood, weaves a dark fairy tale filled with festive fun, true love, and the discovery of Christmas magic. Prepare to be enchanted by this winter's must-read.
Review Upon a Frosted Star
Upon A Frosted Star left me with a whirlwind of emotions, a complex tapestry woven from enchantment and frustration. Kuzniar's prose is undeniably beautiful; she paints vivid pictures, transporting the reader to the glittering, decadent parties hosted by the mysterious Odette and the chilling, secretive manor house where her curse unfolds. The descriptions are luscious and evocative, filled with a magical realism that perfectly captures the fantastical essence of a reimagined Swan Lake. I found myself completely swept away by the atmosphere, the lavish details of the parties, the icy beauty of the winter setting – it was truly spellbinding. The author’s skill in creating a sense of wonder is undeniable, and moments like Odette's performances and the overall ambiance of these exclusive gatherings felt genuinely magical, sparking a childlike sense of awe within me.
However, the magic wasn’t enough to fully compensate for some shortcomings. While the initial mystery surrounding Odette and her annual soirees hooked me, the pace significantly slowed in the middle. The plot sometimes felt bogged down, with large stretches of time passing with little narrative advancement. I found myself wishing for a more compelling central conflict, a more substantial driving force beyond Forster's somewhat obsessive pursuit of Odette. His character, while sympathetic in his artistic struggles and yearning for connection, occasionally felt passive, his reactions to Odette’s situation lacking the dynamism I craved. Their relationship, while undeniably romantic in its intensity, occasionally felt rushed and lacked the depth of connection to fully justify the emotional weight placed upon it.
The ending, though certainly impactful and true to the melancholic undertones of the original Swan Lake, felt abrupt and somewhat unsatisfying. While I appreciate a story that doesn't shy away from tragedy, the resolution felt rushed, leaving several loose ends untied. It left me wanting more exploration of certain character arcs and a more gradual unraveling of the central mystery. The feeling lingered that the potential for a richer, more complex narrative was present but not fully realized.
Despite its flaws, Upon A Frosted Star is not without its charms. It's a book that excels in atmosphere and sensory detail, creating a world that's both alluring and haunting. Kuzniar's ability to evoke a specific mood and feeling is truly remarkable. For those who prioritize immersive world-building and evocative language over breakneck pacing and a tightly plotted narrative, this book might be a perfect fit. If you're looking for a wintery read to curl up with, filled with magical realism and a touch of gothic romance, it's definitely worth considering. However, readers seeking a fast-paced plot with a satisfying resolution might find themselves slightly disappointed. The experience was a bittersweet one, leaving a lingering impression despite its imperfections.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.08 x 1.1 x 7.8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 384
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: HQ