Crown of Ice (30 page)

Authors: Vicki L. Weavil

Tags: #Juvenile Fiction, #Fairy Tales & Folklore, #Adaptations, #Legends; Myths; Fables, #Norse, #Fantasy & Magic, #myths and legends, #snow queen, #teen romance, #frozen, #paranormal romance, #teen and young adult, #Fantasy, #Fairy Tales, #hans christian andersen, #Retelling, #teen and young adult fantasy, #Science Fiction And Fantasy

BOOK: Crown of Ice

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“Holger?” I know this is the answer as soon as the question leaves my mouth. “But I thought that you couldn’t venture into the lands of ice and snow?

“Only because Mael Voss held them under his control. I am free now to journey where I wish.”

I extend my hand. “It occurs to me I haven’t yet thanked you properly, Sephia.”

The enchantress clasps my fingers for a moment. “There is no need. Follow your path into the world and learn all you can. Then return and visit me one day. Tell me tales of every place your feet have trod. That will be my thanks.”

“I’ll do that.” I smile and squeeze Sephia’s hand.

She lifts our clasped fingers to her breast before releasing her grip. “I wish you safe journeys.”

I honor her with a sincere, if awkward, curtsey before I turn and walk back to Freya. “I hope to have some wonderful stories to share,” I say as I swing up onto the mare’s back and take up the reins.

“I am certain that you will.” Sephia calls to me as Freya trots past her.

I turn to wave farewell. Sephia has disappeared—there’s no one standing by the oak. Although the tree’s leaves are still tightly cocooned buds, about its base springs a ring of violet crocuses.

I face forward, gazing down the tree-lined path. “Come, Luki, let’s explore the world.”

Luki yips excitedly and leaps in front of Freya.

“Lead the way, my friend,” I tell the wolf. “We’ve much to do, and I don’t have forever.” I urge Freya into a trot.

I don’t know what lies ahead, but I know Sephia’s right. I’ve much to learn.

And I can’t wait to begin my education.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I wish to thank the following people for their contributions to this book and their support of my writing career:

Georgia McBride and the entire team at Month9Books—thank you for taking a chance on a book by an unknown author and giving it, and me, your unqualified support. Thanks also to my editor, Lindsay Leggett— your expertise is deeply appreciated.

Jennifer Mishler, my insightful and supportive agent—thanks for believing in my books and always being available to answer my questions, as well as for your hard work on my behalf. Thanks also to the entire team at Literary Counsel.

Many heartfelt thanks to my critique partners—Revo Boulanger, Lindsey Duga, Steve Katzen, and Richard Pearson. You are wonderful authors and I look forward to adding your books to my shelves. Thanks for the sage advice and unwavering support.

Thank you, everyone at AQC (
http://agentqueryconnect.com/
) — the best writing community online.

Authors Judith Hillman Paterson and Adina Gewirtz—thank you for your expert advice on improving my craft and your ongoing support of my writing career.

The Third Friday Book Club—I raise a glass to you my friends. Your enthusiasm for my writing always lifts me up.

Thanks to Joey Francisco, who suggested the title for this book. You are missed, Joey.

Rebecca Brown—special thanks for being a supportive reader and friend, not to mention listening while I talked (and talked) about writing and publishing.

My family, especially my parents—thanks for your support throughout my life. Mom and Dad—special thanks for making sure your “read-a-holic” daughter always had enough books.

Kevin, my husband—thanks for being my best beta reader and fan. Your love and your belief in me and my writing mean the world to me.

Finally, I must acknowledge the genius storyteller without whom CROWN OF ICE could not exist—thank you, Mr. Hans Christian Andersen.

VICKI L. WEAVIL

Vicki L. Weavil was raised in a farming community in Virginia, where her life was shaped by a wonderful family, the culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and an obsession with reading. Since obtaining her undergraduate degree in Theatre from the University of Virginia, she’s gone on to acquire two masters degrees, living in places as diverse as New York City and rural North Carolina. She’s currently the library director for a performing and visual arts university. Vicki loves good writing in any genre, and has been known to read seven books in as many days. She enjoys travel, gardening, and the arts. Vicki lives in North Carolina with her husband, son, and some very spoiled cats.

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