This snuck up on me, and before I knew it, I was finished. This was a brilliantly woven story about a girl who finds companionship with Death after being cursed for her cold heart. 

Seventeen-year-old Smitha has the wealth, status, and beauty that make her the envy of her town—until she rejects a strange man’s marriage proposal and disastrous consequences follow. Smitha becomes cursed, and frost begins to encompass everything she touches. Banished to the hills, hunted by villagers, and chilled to the very core of her soul, she finds companionship with Death, who longs to coax her into his isolated world. But Smitha’s desire for life proves stronger than despair, and a newfound purpose gives her renewed hope. Will regrets over the past and an unexpected desire for a man she cannot touch be enough to warm Smitha’s heart, or will Death forever still it?

My Thoughts

I did not like this at first. Smitha was such a cold fish, that I was just hoping she would have a character growth SOON. But as I kept reading, I found it harder and harder to set down. After being cursed and cast out of her village, she wanders the wilderness for 3 years before being found by Prince Imal, a Sheik who has come to her for help in providing water for his people. During her time alone, she finds an uneasy companionship with Death, who wants her to join him in his isolated world. After being found by Imal and the capitain of his guard, Lo, she finds a people who appreciate her, and come to find friendship with them.

How often I had played the part of the fool, but I learned from it every time.

The character development was brilliant, in my opinion. From having started out disliking Smitha, I soon found myself feeling sorry for her. After a while, she became a favorite of mine. She became this selfless character, where before she was cursed for her selfishness and oftentimes cruel nature.

I just wanted to remember what it felt like to touch someone.

I also adore Lo, whom becomes a vital friend for Smitha, in helping her battle her loneliness and showing he cares for her, curse and all.

My only draw back was the writing at the beginning of the book. It felt weak at first, and a few sentences felt redundant. However, the writing vastly improves as the story goes on.

For happiness has wings, and when burdened by the things a man should want, Garen could not reach it.

I loved this book and would definitely recommend it!

My Rating: 4/5 stars

I received an arc copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.