Once Upon a Frosty Winter by Gail Haris is a delightful addition to the growing genre of modern fairy tales, set against the charming backdrop of Mistletoe Creek, Tennessee. This novel, part of a collaborative series featuring eleven authors, takes familiar fairy tale tropes and spins them into a contemporary narrative filled with intrigue, romance, and a touch of holiday magic. Haris’s story is a captivating exploration of love, revenge, and the complexities of human relationships, all wrapped in a cozy winter setting that invites readers to curl up with a warm drink and lose themselves in the tale.

The central character, Hilda Queen, is introduced as the quintessential villainess—beautiful, wealthy, and the subject of town gossip. Her characterization is rich and multi-layered; she is not merely a one-dimensional antagonist but a woman shaped by her circumstances. The whispers of her past, including the tragic death of her husband and the scandal surrounding her stepdaughter, Eira White, paint a portrait of a woman who is both feared and misunderstood. Haris does an excellent job of weaving Hilda’s backstory into the narrative, allowing readers to empathize with her plight even as they grapple with the town's perception of her.

On the other side of the narrative is Jax Frost, a character whose ambitions are as frosty as his name suggests. Jax is determined to carve out his legacy within the Old Man Winter family, and his partnership with Eira to take down Hilda adds a layer of complexity to his character. Initially, Jax appears to be a typical hero, but as the story unfolds, his motivations and vulnerabilities are revealed. His relationship with Eira is particularly compelling; it evolves from a shared desire for revenge to a deeper emotional connection that challenges their initial intentions.

The theme of revenge is prevalent throughout the novel, serving as a catalyst for character development and plot progression. Eira’s quest for vengeance against her stepmother is relatable and poignant, reflecting the universal struggle of feeling overshadowed and wronged. However, Haris skillfully balances this theme with the idea of redemption and forgiveness. As Eira and Jax navigate their feelings for each other, they begin to question their motivations and the consequences of their actions. This internal conflict adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a simple tale of good versus evil.

Haris’s writing style is engaging and accessible, with a warm, inviting tone that mirrors the cozy winter setting. The descriptions of Mistletoe Creek are vivid and enchanting, making it easy for readers to visualize the quaint town adorned with holiday decorations. The author’s ability to create a sense of place enhances the overall reading experience, immersing readers in the festive atmosphere. The dialogue is sharp and witty, often laced with humor that lightens the more serious moments of the story.

One of the standout aspects of Once Upon a Frosty Winter is its exploration of the concept of family—both biological and chosen. The relationships between characters are nuanced and reflect the complexities of familial bonds. Hilda’s relationship with her stepdaughter is fraught with tension, yet it also reveals the potential for healing and understanding. Similarly, Jax’s connection to the Old Man Winter legacy highlights the importance of heritage and the desire to forge one’s path while honoring the past.

The novel also touches on themes of identity and self-discovery. As Eira and Jax confront their feelings for each other, they are forced to reevaluate their identities outside of their familial roles and societal expectations. This journey of self-discovery is relatable and resonates with readers, making their eventual growth and transformation all the more satisfying.

In terms of pacing, Haris strikes a commendable balance between plot development and character exploration. The story unfolds at a steady pace, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged without feeling rushed. The climax is both thrilling and emotionally charged, culminating in a resolution that feels earned and satisfying. Haris does not shy away from the complexities of love and forgiveness, allowing her characters to grow in ways that feel authentic and true to their journeys.

Comparatively, Once Upon a Frosty Winter shares thematic elements with other modern fairy tale retellings, such as Queen of Snow by Amanda Hocking and The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer. However, Haris distinguishes her work through the depth of her character development and the emotional resonance of her themes. While other authors may focus on action and adventure, Haris places a strong emphasis on the emotional journeys of her characters, making her story feel more grounded and relatable.

Overall, Once Upon a Frosty Winter is a heartwarming tale that captures the spirit of the holiday season while exploring deeper themes of love, revenge, and redemption. Gail Haris has crafted a story that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, making it a perfect read for those seeking a cozy escape during the winter months. With its rich character development, engaging plot, and beautiful setting, this novel is sure to resonate with fans of contemporary fairy tales and holiday romances alike.

For those interested in diving into this charming story, it is available on various platforms, including Amazon and Goodreads.