A Whimsical, Darkly Enchanting Winter Fantasy with a Powerful Christmas Allegory

Book Blurb

“Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good fright…”

What if St. Nicholas was really a young, mad trickster—and you had the one thing he wanted? What if the only person willing to protect you had a past filled with failure and ghosts he can’t outrun? And what if you suddenly gained the ability to see a hidden world living in the cracks of your own?

Helen Bell is a quiet student with a painful past and no social life to speak of. Most people barely notice she exists, and she survives by keeping her head down and focusing on school—until one strange encounter changes everything.

When Helen begins seeing invisible beings walking among humans, she assumes she’s losing her mind. But when a handsome Winter guardian rescues her from danger and a terrible force begins hunting her through the city, Helen realizes she’s been pulled into a hidden war where truth, power, and survival are deeply intertwined.

Zane Cohen is a retired Winter Patrolman who would rather cause mischief than return to a life of duty—but Helen isn’t meant for the deadly games of the Rime Folk. As ancient truths awaken and a deadly Winter duel looms, Zane is forced back into the fight, determined to protect Helen even if it costs him everything.

A Portal Fantasy That Feels Like Winter Itself

A Soul as Cold as Frost by Jennifer Kropf is a richly imaginative portal fantasy that blends whimsy, danger, and heart with a distinctly wintry atmosphere. From the first pages, the story immerses readers in cold air, snow-laden streets, peppermint sweetness, and the quiet menace of a world where truth itself is under threat.

Helen is a quietly resilient protagonist—overlooked, underestimated, and stronger than she realizes. Her journey from invisibility to courage is compelling, especially as she’s thrust into a fantastical realm where morality isn’t black and white and doing the “right” thing often comes at a cost.

What Makes It Stand Out?

This book shines in its worldbuilding. Winter is not just a setting—it’s a fully realized realm with its own folklore, rules, customs, and creatures. The Rime Folk, Winter guardians, and eerie traditions feel both fresh and nostalgic, evoking comparisons to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Alice in Wonderland, and Spirited Away without losing originality.

Another standout element is the Christian allegory woven throughout the narrative. Rather than feeling heavy-handed, it’s integrated thoughtfully, centering on themes of truth, sacrifice, redemption, and courage. The story’s Christmas influence isn’t just aesthetic—it’s thematic and deeply intentional.

Strengths

• Immersive Winter Atmosphere – The sensory detail makes the cold, magic, and wonder feel tangible.
• Creative Portal Fantasy World – Winter is strange, beautiful, and unsettling in the best way.
• Meaningful Allegory – Themes of truth, faith, and redemption are woven naturally into the story.
• Wholesome Yet Adventurous – A rare blend of family-friendly fantasy with real stakes.

Minor Weaknesses

• Occasional Pacing Lulls – Some sections slow as the story lingers in exploration and reflection.
• Abstract Stakes – A few readers may wish for clearer consequences surrounding the orb and its significance.

Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✧ (4.5/5)

A Soul as Cold as Frost is a beautifully crafted winter fantasy—whimsical, eerie, and heartfelt. With its imaginative worldbuilding, rich symbolism, and cozy-yet-dark tone, it’s a standout read for the holiday season and beyond.

Who Should Read It?

✔ Fans of portal fantasy like Narnia, Alice in Wonderland, and Spirited Away.
✔ Readers looking for a meaningful Christmas fantasy with depth and heart.
✔ Families and young YA readers (10+) who enjoy adventurous, allegorical fantasy with striking imagery.

Get Your Copy

Ready to step into Winter? Get A Soul as Cold as Frost by Jennifer Kropf now!