Notes from the Shelf

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This post contains spoilers.

Book Summary

The North Wind is a fantasy romance novel with an enemies-to-lovers slow burn, inspired by Greek mythology and themes of sacrifice, survival, and fate. Set in a frozen kingdom protected by a magical barrier, this romantasy weaves together mystery, power struggles, and forbidden love. It is a stand-alone novel but also the start of a series, each focusing on one of the Anemoi (the Four Winds) who were banished to the four corners of the world.

Wren of Edgewood is no stranger to suffering. With her parents gone, it’s Wren’s responsibility to ensure she and her sister survive the harsh and endless winter, but if the legends are to be believed, their home may not be safe for much longer.

For three hundred years, the land surrounding Edgewood has been encased in ice as the Shade, a magical barrier that protects the townsfolk from the Deadlands beyond, weakens. Only one thing can stop the Shade’s fall: the blood of a mortal woman bound in wedlock to the North Wind, a dangerous immortal whose heart is said to be as frigid as the land he rules. And the time has come to choose his bride.

When the North Wind sets his eyes on Wren’s sister, Wren will do anything to save her—even if it means sacrificing herself in the process. But mortal or not, Wren won’t go down without a fight.

My Thoughts

The North Wind by Alexandria Warwick definitely gave me Hades and Persephone vibes, with a dark, icy twist. The slow burn romance was beautifully done. I loved how their relationship evolved gradually, starting from tension and resistance. It also reminded me of Beauty and the Beast: Wren is forced to live with the North Wind, who’s cold, gruff, and standoffish, but not without reason.

As Wren gets to know the kingdom’s struggles, its people, and eventually the North Wind himself, their bond forms organically and believably. The enemies-to-lovers arc was satisfying and full of emotional depth.

Another layer I enjoyed was the mystery surrounding the Wind brothers—especially the West Wind. There’s a constant tension about whom Wren can trust, which adds intrigue and keeps the stakes high. The story explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and belonging in a way that really resonated with me.

By the end, Wren finds purpose and sees the positive impact she has by being part of the kingdom. It’s a satisfying journey from survival to self-discovery.

Also, I have to gush a bit—I bought the special edition from Once Upon a Book Club, but I couldn’t wait. I devoured the ebook from Libby in just three days, and the moment the box arrived, I dove in for a second read. I never re-read books, but The North Wind gripped me and wouldn’t let go.

Final Thoughts

The North Wind by Alexandria Warwick is a must-read for romantasy fans craving a dark, immersive love story with mythological roots and a fierce heroine. If you enjoy tales like ACOTAR, Beauty and the Beast, or Hades and Persephone, you’ll likely be swept away by this icy slow-burn romance.

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