Vampire Academy: Frostbite: 2

Delivery was in a timely fashion. Highly Recommend buyer. Vampire academy is a very entertaining read. Frostbite is the second book of the series. Im now up to shadowkissed and thoroughly enjoying it.

Now I'm pretty sure that after you read the first book in this series that you all formed you're own opinion. I for one can say that I thought that this was an amazing series that gives all Vampire books a new meaning.

Ever since Rose and Lissa came back to the Academy it's been getting a bit too much for Rose as she keeps on slipping into Lissa's mind and keeps seeing what's going on when she is with her boyfriend Christian. Other than that Rose has some serious guy issues considering the one guy that she does like is into someone else and then her best mate Mason has a huge crush on her and isn't afraid to show her his feelings. Even though she tries her hardest to push her feelings for Dimitri aside she can't help but feel sad considering she is on her own most of the time.

After a near by Strigoi attack put's the Academy on high alert considering it was so close to them, the Academy end up going on a skiing holiday for Christmas considering that it would be the best option and also there is more security for the students. However even though the Guardians are thinking of ways to help protect the Moroi race, Rose tries her hardest to become helpful in her own way but after accidently giving out information that could put some students in danger it's up to her and Christian to help save them. Will Rose ever learn to keep her mouth closed when it needs to be or will the other students be in more danger than they actually realise.

Trust me when I say that you don't want to miss this as there is a lot more to come. you won't be sorry that you took a chance with this series.

These graphic novels can be read by both those who’ve read the series and those who haven’t. Leigh Dragoon made sure that the essence of Frostbite is in the pages of the graphic novel. However, I highly recommend you read the books. While Leigh does a wonderful job adapting the story to a graphic novel, some of the complexity of the characters/situation gets left behind. After-all, there is only so much you can fit into a graphic novel. So, while the graphic novel series can be read without reading the series itself, those who’ve read the novels will probably enjoy these a lot more because we are seeing characters that we’ve only pictured in our minds drawn out for us to actually see. Regardless, Leigh did an amazing job taking a 327 page novel and adapting it into a 144 page graphic novel.

Even though the book starts off with a run down of the key players of the story, these books can not be read as a stand-alone. You need to read the Vampire Academy graphic novel before reading Frostbite. The recap you get in the beginning is more of a refresher than to actually catch you up to speed. Once the refresher is out of the way the book moves onto the story itself and all the extra filler that’s in the novel is removed to make way for the key points of the story. So, in the end we get the heart of the story. Not to mention the artwork that Emma Vieceli did is amazing. It’s really great seeing the characters come to life. Especially since this is the installment where we get to meet Adrian! Seeing the characters drawn out really helped me envision them better. For some reason I did not picture Eddie as a beefy blonde. I honestly pictured him as a skinny brunette. So apparently I missed something when I read the series. HaHa

I’m not normally a fan of graphic novels. I’ve tried a few from different series that I’d enjoyed reading but they just didn’t work out for me. I don’t know what it was but I wound up not finishing them. However, there’s just something about these ones that hold my attention every time. Even though I know what’s going to happen, the illustrations pull me in and have me on the edge of my seat or swooning every time. However, I did take a star away because it lost some of it’s complexity when it was converted to the graphic novel. This story has so much heartache, so much confusion and internal battle, and you just don’t fully feel that with the graphic novel. Regardless though, this is a great graphic novel.

If you are a Vampire Academy fan than you have got to get your hands on these graphic novels. You will not be disappointed.

2282133
Frostbite

Richelle Mead
Goodreads / the store

WHEN LOVE AND JEALOUSY COLLIDE ON THE SLOPES, WINTER BREAK TURNS DEADLY...

Lissa Dragomir is a Moroi princess: a mortal vampire with a rare gift for harnessing the earth's magic. She must be protected at all times from Strigoi; the fiercest vampires - the ones who never die. The powerful blend of human and vampire blood that flows through Rose Hathaway, Lissa's best friend, makes her a dhampir. Rose is dedicated to a dangerous life of protecting Lissa from the Strigoi, who are hell-bent on making Lissa one of them.

Rose has serious guy trouble. Her gorgeous tutor, Dimitri, has his eye on someone else, her friend Mason has a huge crush on her, and she keeps getting stuck in her best friend Lissa's head while she's making out with her boyfriend, Christian.

Then a nearby Strigoi attack puts St. Vladimir's on high alert, and the Academy whisks its students away on a mandatory holiday ski trip. But the glittering winter landscape and posh Idaho resort only provide the illusion of safety. When three students run away to strike back against the deadly Strigoi, Rose must join forces with Christian to rescue them. Only this time, Rose - and her heart - are in more danger than she ever could have imagined...
Travel Companion:

If I traveled with the main character Rose Hathaway, she would be:
The Thrill Seeker

She would go to all the places for adrenaline junkies. She would dive from high cliffs into shallow waters. She would be the one who wouldn't hesitate to join in a fight to defend her friends. Rose would be the one to choose the deadly, life-threatening adventures. (Which might result in a broken bone or two.) And she would be great at fighting. She would end up as a martial arts instructor if she wasn't busy protecting her best friend.
We would meet her recklessly jumping off a cliff. Of course, we would chicken out and back off. We would be impressed by Rose's reckless attitude and her fearlessness. We would become her friends after we take our own leap.

Rose was still the same Rose. Reckless and crazy. Fearless and defiant.

Everything was always fast and intense with me.
Page 213 'Frostbite'

But she became more reluctant because of what she saw at her Qualifier exam. I would be reluctant as well. She had to worry about the safety of her friends. And what she saw showed that the wards wouldn't always protect the Moroi from danger. She wanted to fight, but she also had a small part of her telling her not to fight.
Dare I say it? Gulp. She became cautious. (But not enough to cancel out all of her fighting spirit and recklessness.) Her emotions were a tumultuous mess, though. She had Lissa's dark emotions flowing into her. She had the fear of losing Lissa or Dimitri or any of her friends.
And at the ending...she became wiser. Older. She gained knowledge. She finally learned to use a silver stake. She also went through trauma and true struggle. Starvation. Dehydration. She watched her friends suffer. She suffered. And she grew wiser because of this. And more wary of the world around her.
I loved how Rose started to change in this book. In 'Vampire Academy', she was reckless. Nothing held her back. But with the pain she saw, she slowly became cautious. She became reluctant to throw herself into dangerous situations and dance around. She learned to not act like a child. (Even though she still was a child in the end.) She learned through experience. What she did that was right. What she did that was wrong. The filter she needed started to fall into place.

She still was outspoken. (I don't think you can get rid of that.) She still was Rose, but she was a different Rose. A wiser Rose. A Rose who knew better. Rose learns by experience, by seeing things turn out terribly. She learns from that. The things she learned in this book were what made her who she was in the end. A haunted soul, almost like Christian. (If that is even possible.)

The Adventure Begins (And Ends):

The plot was what drew me in. The plot had more action in this book. More tension. I had to continue the book. I read way more that I should have in one sitting. The plot was a roller coaster ride. The threat of Strigoi looming above. The attacks. The unrest with the Moroi. Those who wanted to fight versus those who wanted the guardians to fight. The characters were placed in the face of adversity. They had to fight back or surrender. It was their personal choice.
So much was happening in this book. The plot was fast-paced. It was great that it was fast, though. You had to keep reading to catch on to everything. You couldn't blink. Who was killed? What was their importance to someone else? What happened?
I'll Wait For You At the Gate:

The romance. This was what I expected. The ending scene was amazing. Those two bonding and becoming closer than ever. Dimitri showing he cared. Even if he knew he shouldn't love Rose. The chemistry started to grow.
They had problems. Dimitri couldn't be with Rose. Rose wanted to be with Dimitri. She kept wanting him. Her passion for him was crazy.
And the tension. Rose now had a competitor. And Dimitri acted differently. He joked more with Girl B. (Haha. Spoilers.) He was relaxed with her. The jealousy was apparent. (If only Dimitri saw...sigh...)
And Rose kept stringing along Mason. (It was expected. Book one had Mason crushing on Rose, and Rose wanted a distraction from Dimitri's rejection.) She did like Mason, though. Why didn't she just let Mason be, though?
I wanted Dimitri and Rose to talk more. I can see why they don't, though. Rose was busy being a teenager in a world of Strigoi, Moroi, and dhampirs. And Dimitri was busy being an adult.
I just wanted some ship action! Gimme!

Perks and Upgrades:

We met Rose's mom in this book. At first, I hated her like Rose did. She was never there. She was always cold and cut off from Rose. As the book progressed, I started to see Rose's mom as a person not just as a missing mom character. She had a personality as with all the other characters. She was quick on her feet. Smart. A great leader. I started to like her.
The moment I realized I gained respect for her mom as a mom was on the plane ride back to safety. She acted like a mother then. She held her child together as her child broke down. And I respected that.

_______________

Mason... When I read that part, I started to tear up. And what Rose's mom did on the plane? I started to tear up even more. The ending gave me feels.

No. The feels!

It was terrible what Rose saw. And, as Dimitri has said time and time again, she really is a child sometimes. And children haven't seen struggle. Sure, she survived in the human world for a while with Lissa, but she hasn't seen true struggle. She hasn't seen death in the flesh.
She showed her loyalty in that scene. She stayed by his side through thick and thin. She wouldn't leave. And that showed that she cared about him even if she didn't love him.

“I can’t.” The words hurt coming out. “I can’t leave him alone. I have to protect him.”
"You have,” said Dimitri.
Page 308 'Frostbite'
You Have Arrived at Your Destination:

The ending had such a bittersweet feeling to it. Rose went through so much in the ending. She lost so much. She gained some, but she lost more.
It was an action-filled ending. An ending with a lot of tension and fear. I was clinging to my phone. I was worried about the teens. What would happen to them? I had to force myself to read. I feared for them. Worried for them. (That is a terrible thing for me to go through but a sign of a great book.) And the escape slammed into me. It was terrible. I couldn't handle it. I started to tear up in grief. Rose's emotions were my own for a bit.
I wanted the ending to be different. I wanted Rose to be happier. I wanted to go and change the ending. (Which is rare, guys. I don't want to change endings often. Or at all. This book really affected me.) I hated how this book ended.
But, at the same time, I wanted more. Next book, please!

Overall, this was a great sequel. I got the action I wanted. The plot was interesting. Rose changed into a different person. There was the blooming romance. It was a solid sequel. A great follow-up to a great first book.
I can't wait for what happens next!

Rating:

4/5

*This review contains spoilers (because it's hard to reread a book/series and not spoil some stuff)

The second book in the Vampire Academy series opens with a brief summary of the world and the first book. It's like that part in last week's episode that you see right before a new episode starts of whatever show you are watching.

The stakes are higher than ever when it is discovered that there has been what seems like an organized Strigoi attack on one of the royal families. Strigoi working together has never been heard of since they were so quick to betray each other. Once it gets out about the attack, in order to keep students during the holidays, St. Vladmir's set up a mandatory ski trip for all students and allowed families to attend as well.

Of course this couldn't be a paranormal romance book without any romance. There are some tense moment between Rose and Dimitri early. Things get worse once they get to the ski resort. During the trip we discover Rose has to more love interests, even though Dimitri is the only she wants. Honestly Adrian started to grow on me.

By the end of the book Rose finally lived up to and followed through with everything she had to say in the first book. She also finally realizes being a guardian isn't as glamorous as she thought it was. As a result of everything that happens Rose becomes more serious about everything she feels she must do in order to protect her friends, especially Lissa.

This book was so exciting! I loved this book the first time around and was able to relive the experience all over again.

This is the second book in the Vampire Academy series that follows Rose Hathaway, a dhampir guardian in training at St Vladimir’s Academy.

After a Strigoi attack on a Moroi family, St Vladimir’s Academy goes into high alert. To make security easier for the Christmas holidays, all of the students take a mandatory trip to a Moroi ski lodge in Idaho where all their families will be welcome to come. It is a safety measure that also gives the students a true vacation and a chance to see their families.

Rose is excited at the prospect of beating Mason on the ski slopes. They have had a friendly rivalry for years and it could become something more than friends if Rose could get Dimitri out of her mind. It is a rather complicated situation.

Rose’s mother is also at the ski lodge as the Moroi she protects is there. Rose and her mother have an interesting relationship. They are more similar than they realize and have a hard time talking to each other.

We see a different side of Dimitri at the ski resort and his friendship with Christian’s aunt Tasha. Rose gets jealous of Tasha because of her presumed relationship with Dimitri. I like Tasha because she doesn’t rely on the dhampirs to keep her safe and so has learned to protect herself with her magic.

Rose and Lissa also meet Adrian at the ski lodge, a Moroi interested in both Rose and Lissa for various reasons. He also has some rather uncanny abilities that make Rose suspicious of him.

Mia changes throughout the course of the book from a Moroi attempting to entrench herself with the royalty to someone who isn’t all that bad. A lot of things needed to take place for that to happen and Mia comes out the stronger for it.

Rose deals with a lot in this book and makes some hard choices. While I can understand why she did what she did, she is still more than a little bit impulsive. Rose is fiercely loyal to her friends and dedicated completely to Lissa.

This review first appeared at Orandi et Legendi (http://catholicamanda.com).

Ugh... How to explain my feelings and thoughts on this book? Basically, I loved it. These aren't the best books in the world and I know vampires tend to have a kind of no-fly zone around them, meaning a lot of people avoid vampire books, I'm normally one of them, but these books are just so much fun. They're quick paced, with fast flowing writing, kickass characters, and intriguing plots. They're the kind of books that make you smile the whole time, and that you don't want to put down because you're having so much fun with it. There's romance to root for and characters that drive you crazy but not too crazy, there's also some pretty cool vampires(they have MAGIC, and some are dead and some are not really dead), and yeah, I have no other way to describe them than that they are fun.

Are these books that are going to leave you thinking long after you've closed them? Probably not. But they're books you're most likely not going to want to put down and you're going to want to just fly through the series(if you're like me) and...you'll just have fun and reading is supposed to be fun.

Okay, I guess I should get into some spefics now, besides that the book is lots of fun to read... I definitely liked it more than the first(my review here) and I'm more convinced than ever that the main reason I didn't love the first was that I'd seen the movie and therefore knew where it was going.

In this one you see some changes in the main characters, Rose isn't so tough, as in she's drowning a bit in her feels. She has a lot going on and Lissa is kind of not on purpose ignoring her, plus then you have everything going on with Dimitri(who I'm still not sure whether I like or not) and her mom's back in town, and no matter how hard she tries to be responsible she can't seem to stop making mistakes. I still love Rose, she's still badass and snarky and she knows when she's made a mistake and she generally tries to do better. She also doesn't let romance dictate her life, which is something I appreciate in YA. I didn't like Lissa as much in this book, in the first you really felt I think that they would both do anything for each other and I felt like Lissa was kind of falling down on the job in this book. I appreciated in the first that she didn't just let Rose do everything but she doesn't really try that hard to do anything in this one.

Plot-wise, it got interesting in this one. There was more Strigoi, which I loved, and more magic, which I loved, and slightly more action, which I loved. It was just all around an awesome book.

Overall: I loved this one and it's proving my theory that this is one of those series that get better and better by the book. It still feels a bit as if it's still working on setting up the bigger plot but this one already steps up the action.

Would I Recommend This? Yes!
To Whom? Anyone looking for a fun series to marathon read.
Will I read more from this author(or series)? Definitely.

Frostbite picks up where Vampire Academy left off and not only does it not disappoint but it provided me the opportunity to fall even deeper in love with the characters and their stories. Frostbite not only had the typical drama I expected (and love) about all of these YA books, but Richelle Mead is not afraid of turning things around and hitting you with some major plot twists you never even dreamed of coming. This only cements my love for her as an author.

In this second installment, students from St. Vladimirs travel to an exclusive "safe" ski lodge for a little fun (and protection) during winter break. As you can expect Rose, our fierce, protective, bad ass favorite character is out once again looking for "trouble," while Lissa it seems is still being "medicated" to control her powers. Although I have to admit, I'm not sure how well that's going to work out in the end. I feel like suppressing the amount of power she possesses is a recipe for a major backfiring kind of disaster.

With this new book comes an introduction to a couple of new characters. We meet Tasha, Christian's aunt, who has a very interesting background story of survival. I'm on the fence when it comes to Tasha because I don't know whether to love her heroism or hate her for loving Dimitri and trying to take him away from Rose! We're also introduced to Adrian, another royal vamp. Suspiciously, he stays pretty much drunk or high all the time. Adrian is certainly an intriguing character and I cannot wait to see where his story leads because I have a sneaking suspicion he's going to be around for quite some time!

Dimitri fans don't worry you still get plenty of him in this story, and boy do I ever love him. Don't get be wrong, he frustrates the hell out of me at times, but at the same time I also see all those emotions be thinks he's so well at bottling up and I move right on from frustration to understanding. The chemistry and banter back and forth with Rose makes putting down the books of this series incredibly hard. Their scenes together are some of my most favorite parts of this series so far.

Without giving too much away, and ruining your experience with Frostbite I'm going to leave this review saying once again it's filled with LOT's of twists and turns I never saw coming. Without a doubt Ms. Mead has a gift for weaving an incredible story and I promise as soon as you close Frostbite you're not going to be able to help from one-clicking Shadow Kiss and immediately starting. The Vampire Academy Series is simply irresistible!

I found myself wanting some more of that sassy attitude in this novel.

The action was definitely turned up a few notches, but also was the seriousness… I guess to help set up some of the landscape for further installments in this series. But still, the biggest draw card for me attempting this second novel was Rose’s witty banter and bitchy one liners.
I didn't get the LOL’s as I did from Vampire Academy. That is not to say it was completely amiss from Frostbite – there are definite shining moments and I found myself enjoying it more that the first.

The blurb for this book makes it sound like a love triangle, and completely downplays the build up of the Strigoi threat. I’m glad I hadn’t actually perused the Goodreads page otherwise I may have not picked it up. Going in blind, without any expectation Frostbite falls into my guilty pleasure category. It’s no literary masterpiece by thoroughly entertaining.

Maybe because this the second book a serial I didn't feel like there was enough to this novel story-wise. A great arc and wrapped up some topics, but definitely did not feel like a stand-alone, or something you could understand if you read out of order.

The tone felt a little more mature and developed. Giving me less opportunity to get pulled from the narrative with subsequent eye-rolling. I’m not a huge fan of vampire novels – I feel they are somewhat overdone, but the Vampire Academy series, with its snarky vocabulary and a mix of elemental magic kept me glued to the page.

A great quick escapist read to pleasure a cold winter’s night on the lounge (while cuddling up to your boyfriend or furbaby).

Whoa. This book was awesome. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the first book, but Frostbite really took me on quite the adventure and I could not put it down. I was swept away and caught up in Rose’s thrilling story and I can’t believe how totally engrossed in the book I became!

First off — I love being able to see how Rose is growing. A popular theme in this book is how she’s still a child, she’s still young, but (even pointed out by herself) her classmates and even Dimitri admit in the end how much she’s really becoming more and more responsible bit by bit and her desire to learn and protect is helping her become a great guardian.

Then there’s the love triangle — It really did play off well! I’m totally for Rose & Dimitri (as I think we’re all supposed to be), but throwing Mason in the mix as a more likely suitor was quite the curveball. Mason is such a likable guy as well, but more in an obvious way. He’s the classic good guy, charming, flirtatious – And he really is someone else to root for as well. All the while though, I still found myself really pulling for Dimitri to come around! It’s the forbidden aspect of it, the temptation, and you can just feel the chemistry.

Then of course, the whole story line that develops here. I won’t give any spoilers away but I was totally sucked in throughout the entire end of the book. It was a mile a minute pace with Rose as the freshly self-appointed heroine and it’s a heart-pounding conclusion. I gasped, I cried, I shouted out loud (hey, that happens a lot). I was not let down by how jam-packed it was!

Oh and how could I forget this — I was totally engrossed in the development of everyone’s powers. It was really interesting to get to know more about how Lissa can use the spirit power and weird connections and forces it allows her to use. I really like the magical side of the story a lot and it’s so refreshing that it’s not “just another vampire story”. It’s very unique as far as anything I’ve ever read and surprisingly getting me hooked!

*Audiobook note* The narrator is horrible! More often than not, she made Rose sound like a whiny brat. And after the narrator from the frist book did such a great job (she uses a Russian accent, changed her voice up per character), this new narrator for book 2 really made for an annoying reading experience.

Usually when you read a series, it takes a while to get back into the story and get refreshed on everything that has happened in previous books. FROSTBITE had one of the BEST summarizes I read. Describing the world, the difference in the vampires and their abilities was something that I could have benefitted from the very first book.
Even though Rose had me rolling my eyes with some of her childish, sarcastic ways, she does a lot of growing up throughout the book which I was glad to see. New characters were added and look forward to learning more about them and their futures as the series unfolds.
Like the first book, I still felt there were a lot of “information dumps” which kept taking me out of the flow and mood of the story, making me want to skip ahead. Details are great, but too much doesn’t allow the reader the ability to cultivate their own visions of particular situations… not to mention can cause complete boredom!
Though I’m still patiently waiting for this series to “blow me away” (because it hasn’t happened yet) I look forward to seeing what kind of trouble Rose and her friends get into next… and where exactly Dmitri fits into Roses life… because I’m still holding out hope for the impossible…..

Wow what a book! This is a books about friendship, love and loyalty.

Characters & Storyline: 4/5
I really enjoyed this book the second time round and could really appreciate the smaller details about each different character. You love the main characters and you hate the strigoi. The storyline is exciting and takes you through so many emotions. You laugh, cry, giggle and want to smack them when the characters are making stupid decisions.

Rose - Rose has grown up a bit but still has so much to learn. I feel sorry for her while she sorts out her feelings for Dimitri while trying to live and be young but yet be responsible at the same time. I loved her little romance with Mason. you really go on a rollercoaster with this fiery character.

Lissa - I love Lissa but really wish she would pay some attention to what is going on with Rose. she is sweet, funny and gentle. I feel so bad that Lissa is trying to find herself without her entire family and love the fact that she always does have Rose.

Christian - Christian is his wonderful charming snarky self and I love him with Lissa. I really enjoyed his character is this book.

Dimitri - Dimitri dimitri dimitri... always caught between a rock and a hard place. Emotions versus duty. I love how he handles Rose in his finer moments. Dimitri is hard not to love and totally go to mush about when he is being tender with Rose.

Mason - Mason is just adorable. I feel sorry for him that he is over-shadowed by Dimitri. He deserves so much better. My heart aches for Mason on so many levels but you will have to read this book to find out why!

Tasha - I wasn't so sure of her the first time round and I can't say that much more the second time round. She is fun, brave and a force to be reckoned with. I found it funny that she didn't pick up on Rose's jealousy.

Adrian - I loved Adrian 20 times more this time round. He is my favourite character throughout all of Richelle's books. He is funny, smart and doesn't care for the rules. Not quite your bad boy, but he doesn't fit into the good boy category either. Did I mention I mention I love Adrian to pieces...

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 4/5
The plot of frostbite is good and the pace is great. Richelle has an easy writing style. Her characters need some development but lucky I do know there is lots to come. Chapter 22 had me crying! I don't think I cried the first time I read this chapter but I was so heartsore this time round. The ending is so sweet - That is all you are getting from me!

Cover talk: 4/5
I liked the cover. The gates and that font just sell me every time.

Final Thoughts:
I love this series. It is a great YA PNR and it is definitely worth a read. I think this is one of those books that definitely get better every time you read them.

In the middle of reading the second Game of Thrones book, A Clash of Kings, I needed a little “no thinking” reading, so I started Frostbite. I enjoyed Vampire Academy enough to read through the series and numerous people told me they binge-read the whole series in just a week. It definitely was a lot quicker read than A Clash of Kings!

Likes:

All my favorite characters are present and active in the book. Sometimes a series drops off some characters since they are not the main part of the story, so I was glad that everyone was involved.

Rose’s mother had a larger role in the book and it was interesting to learn more about her and her life choices. I am assuming that as the series goes on we will get to know her better and see Rose’s understand grow.

Dimitri, oh my steamy boy. He is so rough sometimes but then a huge softy. He is just so dark and mysterious that you have to figure him out!

Mason was so cute in this book too. He really takes his crush on Rose up a notch, I know that this was kinda love triangle, but it didn’t really bother me, maybe because of the outcome.

The story flowed fairly well, there was a point in the middle where I felt a little bored, but not enough to stop reading. The ending was written really well, a complete plot and no huge cliffhanger, but enough to keep you reading the series.

Gripes:

Oh Rose, you make such horrible decisions sometimes. I know that I did that as a teen too, I was impulsive and passive-aggressive, just like Rose. Looking back at both her and myself in high school, I just want to scream “stop!” So although I am counting this as a gripe, I know that it is pretty realistic.

Rose Hathaway is trying to move on. The events of the last few months were draining and Rose is trying to get on track, move forward with her training, and forget about Dmitri, who has obviously moved on. A high profile and uncommonly bold strigoi attack has everyone on edge and guardians flood St. Vladimir's, including Rose's mother. The school isn't taking any chances and makes the skiing trip to Idaho mandatory to keep the students together while allowing their parents to come visit them. Lissa is very busy with her new boyfriend and Dmitri is also busy with Tasha, so Rose decides to have some fun and ignore them. After yet another strigoi attack happens that directly affects one of the students, leading three of Rose's classmates going on a crusade after the strigoi. Feeling responsible because she told them the location, Rose follows them to get them to come home. Hopefully Rose will get there before they've gotten themselves into bigger trouble than they can handle.

Frostbite is steeped in a lot of teen drama, but Rose rises above it and develops so much since the first book. Instead of stupidly running to fight a whole gang of Strigoi, she's the voice of reason, trying to get her foolish friends to wake up and come home. After her up close and personal experience with a Strigoi, it has put her abilities and skills into perspective. Just because they are exceptional for guardian students doesn't mean they are any match for superpowered evil vampires. Rose is less of a daredevil, but her personality is as fiery as ever. She's the same Rose with a little more sense and caution. Rose tries to move on and forget about Dmitri because their relationship goes against both of their goals as guardians. She tries to make it work with Mason, which is nice, but ultimately unsatisfying. She deals with a lot of stresses: jealousy over Dmitri and Tasha, jealousy over Lissa and Christian, and anger at her mom. Although there are some missteps, Rose deals with all of these impressively.

The relationship between Rose and Lissa is strong, but changing. Lissa has a new boyfriend and platonic relationships change and adjust to accommodate in the face of new love. I experienced this as a teen and it can be hard, so Rose's feelings rang true to me. My friendship at the time didn't survive that change, but I'm glad Rose and Lissa's did. Rose gives the lovebirds some space and tries to amuse herself, but it's difficult when strong emotions can cause her to see through Lissa's eyes. Awkward! Unfortunately, to distract herself she befriends drunkard and playboy Adrian, making others judge her harshly as slutty or stupid. Of course Adrian isn't judged as harshly and his behavior is expected for a rich Moroi young man. Frostbite only marginally explores the sexist double standards in vampire society, but I'm glad it continued at all.

Frostbite is awesome. It develops the characters and relationships while amping up the volume on the suspense and horror. The ending is heartbreaking and extremely memorable. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.

When Dimitri and Rose discover a gruesome mass murder of Moroi and dhampirs in a home which should have been protected by magic wards. In the snow outside the home, Rose discovers a silver stake which was used to break the wards. Because of the magic infused in stakes, evil Strigoi are not able to touch them. This means one thing…the Strigoi are being helped by humans. Since humans can touch magic and come out in the daylight, this means all of the rules have changed.

In an effort to protect the children of St. Vladimir’s Academy and their families over the Christmas break, the school rents out a Moroi owned ski lodge and invites everyone to spend Christmas there. The ski lodge is also protected by wards, and with the combined force of guardians to protect it, it becomes as safe as the school.

At the ski lodge, Rose contemplates dating her friend Mason, a dhampir classmate training to be a guardian. Mason is kind, funny and completely in love with Rose. She knows he is who she should be with, but her crush on her instructor Dimitri is too strong.

If that weren’t enough boy problems, Rose attracts the attention of a rich, and perpetually drunk, Moroi by the name of Adrian. Adrian has a wild and reckless reputation and is a few years older than Rose. Rose keeps turning down his advances, but Adrian doesn’t give up easy—causing jealousies to bloom in both Mason and Dimitri.

Rose also has to deal with her own jealousy when Christian’s aunt Tasha shows up. She and Dimitri are old friends and she makes him an offer that’s hard to refuse.

In light of the increasing Strigoi attacks, controversies erupt among the Moroi. Some, such as Tasha, feel that Moroi should be using their magic to fight alongside the dhampirs rather than cowering. Others want to force dhampir teens to graduate after their sophomore years, sending them into guardian service two years early. Some of Rose’s classmates, only months from graduation are itching to fight. Feeling frustrated over the in action as well as from the mixed messages from Rose, Mason leads to group to go on the hunt for Strigoi. Can Rose save him in time?

Overall, I give Frostbite…

Plot – 4 bookmarks
Character Development – 4 bookmarks (We are steadily seeing Rose mature)
Love Story – 4 bookmarks
Fight Scenes – 4 ½ bookmarks
Political Intrigue – 4 bookmarks

Dream Cast (otherwise known as who I pictured while reading) - Rose (Sophia Bush), Lissa (Blake Lively), Dimitri (Ben Barnes), Christian (Michael Steger), Jenna Boyd (Mia), Ed Westwick (Adrian), Tinsel Korey (Tasha), Prince Harry (Mason)

Now I know why people were trying to get me to read this series a long time ago; it just gets better and better. And I hope it continues to get better! I have several WONDERFUL things to say, as well as a few DREADFUL ones that need to be said but I promise the wonderful outweighs the dreadful.

After the events that occurred in Vampire Academy the students of St. Vladimir’s start to get back into their regular routines. Rose is off to be tested by a famous Guardian, only to find that he and his Moroi family were murdered by Strogoi. After this opposing threats to the Moroi comes to light the faculty decides to send everyone to a ski resort for the winter break. Relationships form and grow stronger, Lissa’s madly in love with Christian, Rose is fighting her feelings for Dimitri, Mason is still one of her biggest fans, but who is this new Moroi royal who’s come to play? After the Moroi are attacked even in daylight the guardians start to wonder how these attacks are taking place. Deciding to take matters in their own hands the students decide to go out on their own and do a little hunting.

I love how the tone in Frosbite stayed the same as in Vampire Academy. Less bullying perhaps, less dead animals, but there was still that constant dread that the Strogoi were going to attack any minute. I have this nasty feeling that all the events of the series are going to take place within the year and I’m not sure how I feel about that…Such big events should be more spaced out, BUT it is a YA novel/series after all. Imagine, Rose and Lissa’s entire world changing in the course of a year. It’s worse than Harry Potter. At least big things happened only once a year at their school.

As serious as it is there’s still a high school playfulness about Rose and her friends. Like any other teenager they all look forward to winter break; especially winter break at a fancy ski resort. All-expense paid, mostly stress free…. It’s kind of nice how the seriousness is taken away by common high school events.

Let’s get to the juicy part…. The new Moroi royal – Adrian Ivashkov.HOLY MOTHER!
I thought Dimitri was hot, now I can’t even categorize them on a scale.
Where Dimitri is classic, strong silent zen master, all-out badass, and has a SEXY Russian accent, Adrian is charismatic, arrogant, full of himself, and even a TAD BIT stalkerish. And when I say tad, I mean VERY MINIMAL…mostly. He just has this charm you’re instantly attracted to and wish he would pay attention to you the way he pays attention to Rose. Two very different boys pining after one very special Dhampir. I seriously can’t decide who I like or WANT more…Dimitri or Adrian…AHHHHH!!!!!!As for the dreadful stuff…the ending was pretty bad. And I mean bad as in like I cried. I’M NOT GONNA TELL YOU WHY! But it was sad….it was just….really sad. You remember in the Harry Potter Order of the Phoenix film, where Sirius died (OH SPOILER SIRIUS DIES) and the whole movie goes silent and you see Harry kicking and screaming but there’s only faint music in the background. Yeah, this scene is THAT INTENSE. I literally felt like everything happened in slow motion and it was just downhill from there….

The PLUS side to all of that is the last chapter is REALLY FREAKING GOOD! And that’s all I’m going to say to that affect. Onto book 3 – Shadow Kiss. 2 down and four to go! Don’t think or know if I’m going to read the spin-off series…

4/5 Hearts of Love
Again, because I can’t give it an extra point just because Adrian is so yummy!

Frostbite is the second installment in the Vampire Academy. Rose is back in training to become a guardian working overtime to catch up in her classes as well as her physical training. Lissa has been spending all her time with Christian as their budding relationship takes it to a new level. While Lissa is busy Rose is feeling a little jealous missing her best friend and not really having anyone she can vent to. She also can’t deny she’s in love with Dimitri but it’s clear to him that nothing will happen. When Rose heads off with Dimitri to be tested what should have been a just a test turns out to be anything but. The pair arrive to find several Guardians as well as Moroi murdered by Strigoi but it’s clear from searching the crime scene that they are working with humans which is unheard of.

After hearing about the brutal attack the school decides to send the Royals, as well as their families off to a protected ski resort in Idaho for the break. What should be a relaxing vacation for the students is anything but for Rose she’s been torn in all directions by guys who want her but the one she can’t have. At least she gets along with Mason while Adrian is determined to win her over with his charm. Toss in Rose’s mother who she hasn't seen in ages it’s going to be anything but relaxing. When another family is attacked hitting close to home some of the novice’s head off to get the Strigoi since the Guardians aren’t doing anything. Rose will have to find them before they are found by the Strigoi.

I think Rose is a great character while she has her flaws but I think that’s what I like about her. She’s easy to connect with you can’t help cheering her on through the whole book. I like Lissa she’s a perfect match for Rose they complement each other and I can’t wait to see what she can do with her powers. As much as I like Mason he’s just not perfect for Rose like Dimitri is and I keep hoping one day he’ll see the light and follow his heart. We also got a taste of Tasha who is Christians Aunt she’s an interesting character that I hope to see more of in future books. I think she has the potential to change the way they fight the Strigoi with her ideas but I could be way off.

For December my goal is to read the rest of the series. Frostbite had big expectation after the first one and I was nervous it wouldn't be able to meet them. I was instantly drawn into Rose’s story it’s fast paced from start to finish. Frostbite is an intricate story that mixes action, emotions, romance, and enough suspense to leave you guessing till the end. The characters are easy to relate to and engaging you can’t help falling for them. I was on the sparkly vampire band wagon for a long time but Vampire Academy is quickly stealing my heart. I love the concept for the two types of vampires as well as the Dhampir I think the author has taken the vampire concept and put her own unique twist which I love. It's one of my new favorite series that I couldn't put down. I can’t wait to start the next one because I’m dying to know what’s going to happen next to Rose and Dimitri. I have all of them loaded on my kindle ready to go.

I loved this. But I'm going to warn you again, there is going to be huge spoilers in this because I just have to talk it. Serious, ruin the end of the book for you spoilers.

You get a lot more in this one that you got in the first one. It still opens up lots a questions that don't really get answered because it is written in a very series like manor. You are satisfied with how much you get but it wouldn't be able to stand on its own very well.

You meet the characters better in this one, its not just focused on Rose and Lissa though they are still the main characters. Lissa becomes a more complete and confident person, and Rose starts to struggle with a many guy issue, she has three of them throughout this book. She also starts to crumble a little bit mentally, but there are good reasons for this. One to do with her and Lissa's bond which isn't really completely touched on in this book, but the events towards the end also have the right to leave her tad unstable.

You get to see more of her friend Mason, which was both good and devastating at the same time. He is just a totally lovable and though I don't think he and Rose should be together, he totally deserved someone better than her, she kinda jerked him around a little bit. I was heartbroken when he died. That scene at the end where Rose is standing over his body covered in blood and holding a sword because she just avenged his death and shes so in shock she doesn't realise that help has come and shes about to go at them for coming near him, was really well written.

We also get to meet Adrian for the first time, and so far I think he is my favourite character. Most of the parts that had me laughing out loud had to do with him. One of my favourite lines which Rose says about Adrian is "I don't think anyone had expected Adrian to suddenly take an abrupt trip to Crazyville." You also meet Rose's mother for the first time. They have a really awkward relationship. I didn't really think she was developed all that well, but is hard to completely understand guardians personalities and feelings when part of their roles as guardians is to hide all those things and stay calm, level headed and focus only on those they are protecting.

You also get more action from the Strigoi which livened up the plot a lot more because they didn't really make much of an appearance in the first book and they are such a big deal in this world which has been created. A lot more action happened in this one than in the first, but because it is written for a series lots of things arent answered or shown completely yet. They probably wont be until the end.

Originally posted on my blog: [...]

Since most of you guys have read the VA series, this will be mostly my reactions rather than a "review".

I loved Rose's attitude and kick ass demeanor in Vampire Academy and we get to see more of that in Frostbite! I like Rose because she has such a fiery and snarky personality. But she doesn't stay the same, you see her start to mature in this one and I loved that. Speaking of things I love, Dimitri, guardian and duster-clad warrior god is ever present and providing the best forbidden love tension ever. Adding to the tension is fellow dhampir and friend of Rose's: Mason. Mason is just so.. adorable in his feelings for Rose and you can't help but like him. But of course since he is in the way of my Dimitri and Rose forever plan, I couldn't like him too much. Even if he is awesome.

In Frostbite we meet one of my favorite characters. Adrian Ivashkov. *silly grin* Eee! He is an insanely handsome Moroi that will make your heart melt. Oh and he's one of the Royal Moroi, really rich, kinda arrogant and drinks too much. Those all sound like "bad" qualities but the "I know I'm amazing" attitude just suits him and I love it. He may act all arrogant but he's not a jerk -- he just likes getting a rise out of Rose. And, somehow in books, I gravitate to those cocky, swoony boys! Plus, Adrian is much more than meets the eye. Underneath all the smoking, and drinking, and arrogant exterior is someone who is really worth getting to know. Adrian also kind of reminds me of Damon from Vampire Diaries (the show). Hair included. Because did I mention he has fantastically rumpled hair? =)

This was the only one in the series I'm giving a 4 star and that's because I felt like it was a little slow at parts. I feel like I could tell what was going to happen. However, I still enjoyed the story wholeheartedly. I just loved Richelle Mead's writing and all her characters! I may have even gotten choked up at one point. =\

Anyway, great sequel and awesome characters!

*sigh* I still love these books. Frostbite has a kind of New Moon feel to it for me. It has at times been my least favorite book in the series as book 2's often are. But at the same time there's so much that happens in Frostbite that is pivotal to the overall story, to each individual character's growth, to moving the plot along, and to turning this into more than a cute vampire novel series. It's really the glue that binds the whole series together and completely sets the scene for book 3, Shadow Kiss, which is probably the most pivotal book in the series. The prologue does a great job of spelling out this fantastic world that Richelle Mead has created. I can't tell you how many friends that I've forced this series on who told me they were so thankful for the prologue because while they really enjoyed Vampire Academy, they were a bit confused. So if you were confused at all after finishing Vampire Academy, the prologue breaks everything down quite nicely.

I just love Rose. She's such a strong character. She's impulsive and rash, but she's so passionate and loyal. Rose is stuck in this place where she can't really talk to anyone about what all she's feeling. She hasn't had a chance to really tell Lissa about her feelings for Dimitri and what has gone down between them--especially because Lissa has been pretty wrapped up in her new relationship with Christian. It's completely real to see Lissa and Rose drift apart during this time period as friendships often do when one friend has started a new relationship. Rose starts off Frostbite being extremely naive and even bordering on childish and immature, but she grows so, so much in this book. She sees death in all of it's brutal and ugly glory which forces her to grow up. She learns that she's not invincible and neither are like heroic figures like Arthur Showenberg. As always, Dimitri has a way of putting her in her place without making her feel like complete and utter crap--even when she deserves it.

Speaking of Dimitri, it sometimes surprises me how childish Rose can act and yet it doesn't really change the way he feels about her. Dimitri still plays the wise mentor, but Rose continues to see him for what and who he really is thus shaking him to his core. He tries to remain in control at all times, but some things are just beyond being controlled. Rose being one of those things, and his feelings for her being another. However, Dimitri is presented with another potential suitor and decisions must be made about what he'll do with his life and if he'll follow this new path set before him--one that's not restricted and won't put anyone in danger for pursuing.

I've always been impressed with the foreshadowing that Richelle Mead uses in this series. And things really begin to pick up in Frostbite as far as that's concerned. We've got stuff going on with the bond, false ideas, changing politics, and all kinds of things that are really eluded to in Frostbite that, again, without knowing the rest of the series a reader would easily miss. Going back through the series is really the only way to completely pick up on all of this stuff, and even after as many times as I've read this series, I still find something new each time. Specifically I love how Richelle Mead will tell the reader something that the character believes is fact. Because the character believes these things as fact, the reader takes them as fact as well. It's a great way to lay down the groundwork for some false ideas that will turn into plot twists and such in the later books. But how do you tell fact from fiction without knowing the ending? Ha! I love it!

Along with Rose and Dimitri--my favorite characters--we have the same secondary characters as before, Lissa and Christian (Lissa and Christian are probably main characters, but for me they're secondary), Mia, Mason, and with the addition of a few more, Rose's mom, Adrian--oh Adrian!--Eddie, who's mentioned in the first book, but doesn't have a large role, Tasha, etc. The secondary characters continue to grow, and the new additions shine. Eddie's character is so different from Frostbite to the end of the series that with this re-read I almost didn't recognize him. He seems like a totally different person. Obviously Rose and her mom have issues and seeing that relationship play out was interesting. Nothing brings out Rose's childish side like her mother. Lissa begins to step up and come into her own with the other royals. She's able to discuss Moroi politics with them on a level that serves as mediator and peacemaker during a few of the meetings which is a huge step up from the girl we saw in Vampire Academy.

I keep thinking that Adrian has blonde hair, but Frostbite clearly states that he's a brunette. (Is it okay to call a guy a brunette?) I love how Adrian immediately picks Rose out yet throughout Frostbite during my first reading of it, I was so distraught that he might actually be going after Lissa too since he does seem to be a player. Not that I wanted him to go stepping in between Rose and Dimitri either. But I seriously couldn't help but fall for Adrian's charm--even early on.

The ending was one of those that had my heart pounding. Do you remember that feeling of playing hide-and-seek when you were little and just sitting in the dark trying to be utterly silent so as to not give away your position but feeling the increased steady drum of your heart? I totally felt this exact way reading the ending of Frostbite. This ending was so brilliant because it's such a pinnacle point for so many of the characters, specifically Rose, Mia, Eddie, Christian, Mason, Dimitri, Rose's mom. It was the humbling experience that Rose needed and turned the series from cute vampire series to something a bit more serious. I loved how resolution doesn't come easy to Rose. She doesn't just miraculously get out of this dangerous situation, she has to fight her way out, and every single moment of that fight is tough and difficult.

Frostbite easily gets 4 Stars from me. I still adore this book and this series. Have you read Frostbite? What did you think? Let me know!

For more reviews, check out Somewhere Only We Know - [...]

From start to beginning, I absolutely loved this book, and that's saying a lot because I really didn't care for the first book and almost didn't read the second. But I'm so happy I did.

Rose grew up so much. Of course she's still cocky and gets into occasional trouble, but she understands she needs to learn a lot more about being a Guardian, and she usually thinks before acting now. I also hate love triangles, but this one was definitely needed in order for Dimitri to really understand and accept his feelings for Rose.

And I won't lie, the ending brought a couple tears. Good and bad. It wasn't cookie cutter like I expected it to be. Rose and a couple of her friends are put in a horrible situation, and there's a heartbreaking death. Rose copes with it in a realistic way, which leads to her to actually understand her mother. And even though they're still not close in the end, they're definitely on better terms and Rose doesn't keep pushing her away.

And then there's the good tears which of course came from Dimitri and Rose, but I'm not going to give spoilers. This book is one-hundred percent worth reading, especially if you were on the fence about the first book like I was.

Like the first in the series, this graphic novel followed pretty well along the original series' story line. I could have done without all the "catch up" that was at the beginning, but I assume that's for people who might not have read the novels or jumped in the middle of the graphic novels.

The art still amazes me and I was happy to see that the art reflected my ideas of the characters as I read the original novels.

If you enjoyed Vampire Academy, or the first of these graphic novel versions, you're sure to enjoy this one as well.

Mead's Vampire Academy series gets a great deal more interesting when Rose and Dimitri find a household of Moroi royals slaughtered. It seems the Strigoi, who were generally known to hunt alone, are now organizing together and may even be aided by humans. As Dimitri says, "This changes everything." Now the Moroi are talking about ways to better protect themselves and maybe even use offensive magic. Lissa is also interested in learning more about her Spirit gift and may have even found someone else like her. And, to top things off, Rose's estranged guardian mother shows up, which prompts Rose to discover some tough things about herself.
These plots make the saga more interesting than it initially appeared in the first book. Lissa and Rose's relationship is strained by Lissa's having a boyfriend and Rose not wanting to burden Lissa's fragile psyche with her own problems. The politics of the Moroi royals are intriguing, as is the growing threat of the Strigoi. Rose can be irritating sometimes, but she is an authentic teenager, particularly considering her situation and increasingly adult responsibilities. Information revealed about certain characters and some intriguing new characters also enhance the narrative. Young Adult readers will have already been captivated by this series, and adults reading this will probably become more engaged with it.

It's always frustrating to read a book starring astoundingly dim characters. And in Frostbite, the characters are sooooooooooo stupid. And I don't think those eleven o's adequately represent how stupidly the characters behave in this volume. People are dying left and right and everyone decides that it's the perfect time for a ski resort vacation. Like doomed characters in a horror movie, Rose and company knowingly venture into dangerous territory where evil Strigoi are known to live. Even worse, Richelle Mead continues to treat us readers as if we're unintelligent. The writing is still weak--Mead or her editor expect us to believe "examinated" is a word--and foreshadowing takes the obvious form of the narrator thinking, "You know, there's SOMETHING important about this information I just learned, but it can't be revealed yet so I'm just going to strongly allude to it." Newsflash: characters and readers alike can be smart. Don't over simplify.

And still...I quite enjoyed this. While the first half is bogged down by teenagers behaving too teenagerly, the final part is super fun. Mead introduces Adrian, a Moroi vampire described as "charismatic." His charisma drips off the page--he is sexy, charming, and awesome. The stakes are slowly rising too, boding well for the rest of the series.

As I was reading this, I was struck by the thought that Paranormal Romance is such a bizarre genre. It rapidly oscillates between trivial love games and matters of life and death. This blend of fluff and serious can make the genre endlessly exasperating. I don't think Mead managed to adequately balance these two acts in Frostbite. But this book served to develop Rose into a loveable heroine. I've always adored young upstart heroes and heroines that surprise wizened adults with their success. Rose's growth in this book leads to such a moment. For me, it was worth sticking through ski slope shenanigans, hot tub parties, and ludicrously unintelligent decisions to reach that point. (And okayyy, maybe I kinda liked those hot tub parties.)

Frostbite gets five fabulous frustrating stars. My God was I going bonkers while reading this book, seriously! A good bonkers, but bonkers all the same. Frostbite was one of those books that has you yelling at the characters, things like "STOP, I KNOW WHAT'S COMING. JUST STAY PUT AND LISTEN FOR ONCE." and of course the characters don't listen because they're simply fictional characters that can't be rewritten. Either way this book was amazing, even better than Vampire Academy in my opinion. If you liked the action in Vampire Academy you'll love it in this because it's multiplied in every way imaginable. More kick ass Rose scenes, more steamy Dimitri scenes, and man oh man do Christian and Lissa get a bit frisky. I really enjoyed the pacing of Frostbite, I flew through it (literally read the whole book on Saturday) and I'm dying for the third.

With sequels new characters are always risky, some can be pointless and others feel forced. With Frostbite I really enjoyed all of the new characters Richelle introduced to us. Tasha, Christian's aunt, is introduced to us which is really cool. I really wanted to learn more about him and we get to! Whenever you hear about this series you hear about the infamous teams! Team Aiden or Team Dimitri? Well we finally get to meet this Aiden guy that's so famous and he's pretty freaking cool if you ask me. I'm not sure if I'm swooning over him yet, we'll have to see if he charms me as his character shows throughout the books. We also learn a lot more about Lissa and her 'abilities', so far I'm feeling lucky I'm not in her situation. We also get to see more of Rose and her kickassness(?)! I love her and all of her flaws, she's just a really cool chick. We see her go through some insane things in this book and grow up a bit which I really enjoyed. The world of the vampires is explained in a much simpler way and I feel comfortable that I can keep track of what's going on now, which is always a plus.

Frostbite was an emotional roller coaster it had me on the edge of my seat (couch) the entire time and I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this frustratingly awesome book to all you vampire/paranormal lovers out there. I'm now going to crawl back into my hole and wait until I can go get the rest of the series from my cousin.

Favorite Quotes

"By the way, my name's Rose Hathaway. I'm seventeen years old, training to protect and kill vampires, in love with a completely unsuitable guy, and I have a best friend whose weird magic could drive her crazy.
Hey, no one said high school was easy."

"You can't force love, I realized. It's there or it isn't. If it's not there, you've got to be able to admit it. If it is there, you've got to do whatever it takes to protect the ones you love."

Isaiah rolled his eyes. "Good God. What a Noble lot. You're all Spartacus, aren't you?"

As a fan of Young Adult Vampire fiction, such as Stephanie Meyer's Twilight saga for example, the Vampire Diaries by L J Smith and the Morganville Vampires etc. I was so excited to discover Vampire Academy! `VA' is a spellbinding supernatural read filled with deadly danger, sinister secrets and spinechilling suspense. I would highly recommend this series to all who love Vampires and are looking for something else to read within the Young Adult genre, since the "sparkly Vampire" success.

When love and jealousy collide on the slopes...winter break turns deadly

St. Vladimir's Academy is on high alert since a massive Vampire attack. This year's trip to the wintry peaks of Idaho has become mandatory. Rose Hathaway can't escape guy troubles, which resembles that of a love triangle akin to Bella, Edward and Jacob. Her relationship with gorgeous tutor Dimitri can never be and her closest friend has now confessed that he has a crush on her... The glittering winter landscape is so picturesque but there is danger lurking in the shadows, and in Rose's heart. Forbidden temptation lies behind the iron gates.

Exciting, intense and addictive I was sucked into this story so quickly that it did not take me long to read and finish it. Unable to put the book down, I was entranced by Rose's connection with her best friend and the guy whom she loves ~ so similar to Bella Swan and her loyal friend Jacob versus the drop-dead gorgeous Vampire Edward Cullen. If you love Twilight, Vampire Diaries and love triangles then you will really love Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series that contains electrifying drama and shocking revelations!

"I wished the kiss could have gone on forever. Breaking the embrace, he ran a few fingers through my hair and down my cheek..."

I have to say I'm actually surprised that this book was able to improve over the first Vampire Academy book. I believe I gave the first book 3.5 stars but this one has earned the extra star here. This review will be pretty much spoiler free.

Much like the first book Frostbite was a quick fun read. I normally don't zip through books within 1-2 days which is refreshing that this series again doesn't get bogged down with minor details. I was also glad that Rose's snarky attitude was tamed down a bit as it was way over the top in the first book at times. I also found my self enjoying the chemistry between Rose and Dimitri even if the relationship is still on the creepy side.

I wouldn't really say there is anything bad about this book, the writing is pretty good for a YA but the plot has more holes in it then a Minnesota road in spring and it takes Rose a ridiculously long time to catch up on things that are painfully obvious. I will give props to the author for having the guts to kill off somewhat main characters which adds some suspense to the story. Overall I'd say give the series a shot. So far it's an entertaining light read.

Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

FROSTBITE is an A+ graphic novel! Amazing! ~ Under the Covers

OH.MY.GOD!!! I loved this graphic novel! Even though FROSTBITE is not my favorite book of the VA series, I definitely thought that Mead, Dragoon and Viceli really upped their game in the second book of this graphic novel series. I'll break it down into parts so it's a little clearer...

THE COVER:

The cover features Rose and Christian front and center, surrounded by those red-eyed Strigoi! Rose is definitely looking badass and Christian - *sigh* I love Christian - is looking like he's ready to kick someone's ass with his Fire powers. I am loving this cover, way more than the first book.

THE SET UP:

In the first beginning pages of the graphic novel, they go into great detail about the world and what has already happened in the first book. They did such a great job that I think that even if you didn't read the books or even the first graphic novel, you wouldn't feel lost at all. It's a nice refresher for loyal fans and a great recap for new ones. A+ job on that!

THE ART:

I know I said that I wasn't too thrilled about the art in the first graphic novel. I'm going to eat my words. In this one, I thought the pictures were far more clearer, the angles and POVs moved the story forward and the action sequences definitely kicked some serious ass! The one character that I'm still a little meh about is Lissa. She looks better in this one for sure, but it's something about her elongated nose that doesn't fit her face. Christian grew on me more and more. And Mason - oh, Mason! - he looked cute as a button!

And then there's the introduction of a major character that I TOTALLY FORGOT ABOUT! Someone smack me on the side of the head! How could I forget? I think I was just really focused on the whole thing with Mason and knowing what's going to happen that I forgot about my boyfriend, Adrian Ivashkov.

Adrian, Adrian, Adrian. Let me just spit it out - HE LOOKED SMOKING!!! Definitely my favorite visual adaptation in the novels so far! He looked exactly how I pictured him in my head! Another A+ job on him!

THE STORY:

The major thing I was looking forward to was seeing how they would depict the Mason part. One word: Amazing! And for some reason, at that one particular scene, I just happened to get something in my eye. Really. It was weird.

THE BOTTOM LINE:

I LOVED IT! It had everything I loved about the books and more! After reading this, I'm tempted to go back and reread the entire VA series caused it reminded me of how much I've enjoyed it.

So this book starts immediately after the end of book 1. We still get to follow Rose, as she tries to understand what it means to be "shadow-kissed" how to help Lissa with her spirit power issues, and how to figure out boys.

All of our cast is back. Rose is still as stubborn, crazy and reckless as before. And just as bad-ass. Lissa is dealing with no longer being able to use magic, while balancing best friend time with boyfriend time. Dimitri is back, and hotter than ever. Mia even turns up, with her annoying, yet sad self. Mason turns out to profess his unrequited love for Rose. And theres a new cutie in town, that I think will make more appearences in the following books- Adrian. He's another royal, though pretty arrogant and feisty, but he keeps a deep, dark secret hidden.

The plot consists of the Strogi (bad, dead vampires) attacking the good guys. While the Morei (alive vampires) and Dhympirs (half alive vampire, half human) fight about how to solve the problem. Some think the Morei should learn to fight so they are no longer victims. Some think they should use up all the dhympirs, even the children and mothers, to protect them.
Because of the attacks, the entire school, and even others that are adults, gather together at a Ski Lodge resort to hide. But then something worse happens- the Strogies attack again- and close this time.

Some bad stuff happens, some good stuff happens... and its all very entertaining and heart wrenching.

I still wish there was more romance between Dimitri and rose- and I feel like if Adrian turns out to be a new love interest- creating a love triangle- I think Ill have to vote for him, bec there just isn't enough emotion coming from Dimitri.

Overall, this book was pretty dang good! Even better than the first. A little more romance, a faster plot, and even more action!

That's a small novel that will not create any upheaval in the Vampire world. And yet it is an interesting novel but probably not for the reasons you may think of.

It is interesting because it is told exclusively from a female point of view and you male readers will be irritated, as usual, by the fact that these women are looking at you as if you were - and you are - sex symbols and sex objects maybe even those special objects, vibrating or not, that are used to substitute your main male attribute.

Then this main character is a teenager and she is absolutely irritatingly childish, capricious, over reactive and so on and so on, the list could be long. You will thus be either thrilled if you are a girl or bored if you are a boy, except if you like being taken advantage of by girls, till you reach the last twenty-five pages when action is finally on the move and yet the end will be mishy-mashy-mushy.

The only innovation is the most racist invention I have heard of, with two races of vampires and a special half human half vampire race of guardians of one of the two vampire races. The Strigoi are the bad killing vampires who want to exterminate the other vampiristic race and humanity too why not, and certainly the guardians. These Strigoi can only reproduce in the traditional vampiristic way by exchanging blood with a human or a Moroi or a Dhampir.

Then the Moroi are the royal, monarchic vampiristic families that are good: they do not kill, they just mesmerize some humans into submission and they feed on them without killing them, at least as long as they are young enough to fabricate the blood these Moroi need. These Moroi can sexually reproduce.

And finally the mixed blood, the Dhampir who are the guardians of the Moroi, because the Moroi are unable to look after themselves, like the Emoi in the Time Machine by H.G. Wells. These dhampir are mixed blood human and Moroi or Moroi and dhampir.

This rewriting of the vampire myth along a purely racial line that is basically racist since one race cannot survive but by destroying the other is kind of reactionary if not even plain politically incorrect.

Have a good trip to the planet of racist vampirism and teenage sexual hunting.

Dr Jacques COULARDEAU

Oh.my.God. I loved this book-I devoured it actually. Frostbite was sooo much more than Vampire Academy. I think this partly has to do with the fact that most characters were already introduced in the first book so you are already aware of their story. I really like the fact that Richelle Mead put a Prologue into this book quickly detailing what happened in the first book-not spend the first several chapters rehashing the previous one like some authors tend to do. There will be spoilers in this review so if you haven't read it(which I'm certain almost everyone has by now!!)I wouldn't suggest continuing onward :P

Lissa pissed me off far less in this book than the first. The first book I found her needy, whiny, annoying and just not a great main(ish) character. Rose actually annoyed me quite a bit in the first book as well and to be honest the only characters I left actually liking a lot were Dimitri and Christian. I loved that Christian and Lissa are together now. I thought Christian was so dark and mysterious and the perfect contrast to Lissa's bubbly personality.

The plot and storyline are great in this book. After the Strigoi joined forces with the humans and are planning attacks, all of the students and their families are packed up and sent to an elite ski resort. While there we meet Adrian. Adrian has the spirit power like Lissa however he doesn't really know what it is until Lissa explains it to him. Rose is caught in a bit of a situation with three men in this book: Mason(who she has recently started seeing to try to get over Dimitri), Adrian(who she denies she likes but I know the real truth, lol) and Dimitri(who is amazing. Duh.).

A few students decide they want to leave the resort to chase Strigoi and prove they can defeat them with magic and early Guardian skills and Rose decides to follow. This is where the story really picks up and I could not actually put it down until I finished it. The entire hostage scene was very well written, it depicted a lot of emotion from the students and my heart actually shrivelled a little when Mason died trying to save Rose. I never would have thought I'd cry reading this novel, but I sobbed! Also Rose reunited with her mother and that is a very raw, realistic relationship. Her mother has essentially abandoned her for 5 years and knows next to nothing about her. Throughout the book it shows the struggle Rose has trying to connect with her again.

The end of the book is honestly the best part-Dimitri shows Rose for real, that he has feelings for her :) The ending is great: it will keep me reading the series but it's not something I would DIE to read right this second. I hate when their are massive cliffhangers in a book. I know I can just rush out to pick up the book now if I really wanted it but when the book was released that wouldn't have been the case.

Frostbite has a kick, just like the title suggests. Rose's snarky attitude is starting to cost her. Everywhere she turns, she runs into choices - about her mom, Lissa & Christian, Dimitri, Mason... not to mention Adrian! What a character! This book could stand alone, the author provides plenty of filler for a new reader to catch up on what they might have missed in Vampire Academy. That was my least favorite part - all the filler details. What I loved was Rose's character development. I learned so much about her. BFF forever!! The story picks up pace until it's sprinting. The closer I got towards the end, the harder it was to put down.

My Rating: I gotta break it down 'cause I hate giving the same rating to entirely different books:

2.5 - Filler details. I didn't need 'em and they made me yawn.
5 - Character development. Holy Cow!! This book is an essential piece of Rose's life!!
4.5 - Action. Even when I guessed what was coming, I was biting my nails. Wonderful!
3.5 - Pace. Those filler moments really set the pace for me. It started too slowly and took time to build up speed.

Overall: 4 - Good book!

The thing is... I need to discuss some details. So, this is where newbies to VA should stop and consider adding it to their TBR. (Go for it!) All you VA nuts out there...

let's talk about Frostbite!!!

This section contains Spoilers!!

Ok... first my complaint. I found myself dragging my way through the first half because I kept running into more detailed descriptions of what I had learned in VA. I am still conflicted on how I feel about that. Either my intelligence is being insulted or I am not being left behind... veeeery thoroughly. Do I say "thanks"? or "no thanks!" I started skipping entire paragraphs once the author began her review voice.

Rose - OMG!! She has always had so much attitude towards the Moroi system and rules in general. In Frostbite she learns so many hard lessons!! Her willingness to accept who she is and adjust made me just love her.

There's her mom. I totally picture this little ball of tight energy - a grown up version of Rose, just a little shorter and a little colder. Like post-hard knocks. And Rose has so much resentment towards her... that fighting scene? The one where the two of 'em are "training" and Rose is pushing her mom's buttons? How awesome was that?!?! Ha! It seemed like "black eye" was a language Rose understood, too, you know? Like suddenly she can see things (albeit reluctantly) from her mom's point of view.

Then there's Dimitri. Darn his stiff Russian exterior!! He's so set on being responsible and a good trainer, let alone guardian that he's downright COLD! Which is totally amplified with Tasha hanging around. I seriously wanted to strangle Dimitri for actually showing a casual, chatty side. I mean, I was gawking. I didn't think it was possible and here he goes showing hidden layers of tenderness... TO THE WRONG PERSON!!

Of course, this is what pushes Rose into examining whether she should hook up with someone closer to her age, too. The differences between Mason and Dimitri are too great. Mason pushes Rose into being responsible with his misplaced confidence, which is deliciously complicated. Talk about fighting yer inner bad-girl!!

Now Rose is sent into some sort of tailspin, wondering if she's really a rebel at all. Ha! She test her theory and BAM!! Bad idea! Innocent Mason jumps at the chance to prove to himself and Rose and all that stupid Moroi system that he's got a great idea and the guts to pull it off! *groan*

We can't forget Adrian, though, right? I mean, all these comments about "now you get to meet Adrian" and how Adrian competes for hottest fictional character and stuff... I had some high expectations for him. And what is he? Some hot guy that's full of himself and his position in this Moroi system who smokes and drinks... constantly. His cocky flirtations seriously got under my skin so that I was throwing him off as enthusiastically as Rose was. After all the hype, I was sooooo relieved she didn't fall for his smooth ways. I was half afraid she'd be tripping over herself over him, especially as insecure as she was at that moment.

As I'm writing this, I'm into the thick of Blood Promise and I realize Adrian's character is being revealed nice -n- slowly, peeling back layers upon layers of worthy dude underneath this smoke haze. I can't help liking him where I'm at in the series. But back in Frostbite? I was giving him pure cold shoulder. And I say that was his fault. He's just getting what he asked for. Back then.

*Pause* for a moment of awe that the author created people I can feel so strongly about!! Wow!

As for the action... the stuff that picked up speed and got to rolling faster than fast so that I was chewin' on my fingers, tense for everyone. Part of what made that entire situation amazing was that the answers were obvious. A moroi was going to have to use magic to get them out of that situation. I mean, I was screaming in frustration when they just allowed themselves to get captured. They really did take that too calmly. But they hadn't made the Human-Strigoi connection that the author set the reader up to see before they did. You know? They were thinking "humans, no problem - irritating, but not life-threatening."

I was frustrated in the torture chamber, too, because I felt so certain that they'd get too weak to fight back at all. There was such a time pressure crunch, it just about drove me crazy. I accepted that the answers weren't obvious to the characters involved, and I'm curious whether anyone disagrees. It took Rose an agonizingly long time to think of it, too.

And I did NOT expect them to lose anyone. Seriously... that was a blow that made it hard for me to review Frostbite immediately afterwards. I was in mourning.

I wondered whether everyone would deal with the death as just part of the job, too. Sort of sad, but sort of expected. And I can't tell you how awesome it was and continues to be that each person is honored as the wonderful character they were/are and not schluffed off as "doin' their duty".

Basically... this book was amazing as far as digging underneath everyone's skin and getting to know 'em all better. I can't imagine what it would have been like to read this book when it came out and have to wait for the next. ARGH!! But happily... I'm reading on my way! They are all so REAL to me!!

When you love a series as much as I did with the Vampire Academy, I will look for anything to revisit the characters again. Also, since I am starting to read more graphic novels lately, this book was able to fill both needs at one time.

While the book does not go as in depth as the books do, they are a good refresher book to help you remember things that happened in the actual novels. While we refresh our memories through this book, we also get some amazing artwork that helps bring the characters alive in our minds through sight. The artwork is amazing in my opinion. The artists really did outdo themselves with bringing little details to life with their art.

If you are wanting to read this series as a graphic novel instead of the actual book, then this book gives you a story without going overboard. I also feel that this is a great way to refresh your memory if you were fans of this series in regular print work. Overall a great addition to have if you are a serious Vampire Academy fan or if you are just starting out on the adventure.

I hate doing this to you guys, reading all the books in a series right in a row, but with these books I can't help it. I'm completely drawn into the series and come hell or high water, I don't think I can stop continuing on so please forgive me if you get a little tired of my Vampire Academy reviews, but I'm hoping that you guys love the books as much as I do!

In Frostbite, we find our characters just as we left them after Vampire Academy ended. Lissa and Christian are getting hot and heavy, Mason is completely head over heels in love with Rose and as you know, Rose is falling hard for her instructor Dimitri. As these sordid love affairs are brewing, a Strigoi attack has left the Dhampir and Moroi world on high alert. In an effort to protect the students of St. Vladimir's the've decided to bus, or rather jet, the students an their families out to a ski resort for a little protected rest and relaxation. I'm sure you can imagine that things did not go according to plan as in this book, everything they know about the Strigoi is turned upside down and Rose gets first hand knowledge at how dangerous these vamps can be.

I really did enjoy this book more than Vampire Academy. That's not to say I didn't like book one, but in Frostbite, I already had a grasp of the vocabulary and the background stories so it made it easier to read and understand. The story was a little more intense as well and I can only anticipate them getting more and more exciting and dangerous as the stories continue.

Once again, Mead presented a beautifully written story that while sometimes a little predictable, was hard to put down. Something about these books takes me until about page 100 and then I don't put the book down until I finish it. That happened with the first book as well and I'm not exactly sure what happens 100 pages into her books, but something sparks and I couldn't stop reading.

My favorite characters were still my favorites and Frostbite made me love Rose even more. In this book, she shows her age a little bit at times and she has to face the harsh reality that being a guardian isn't about jumping into situations because you think you're a badass and can take on the world. She learns through her time with Dimitri and her mother that the Strigoi are a force to be reckoned with and not easily taken down. By the end of Frostbite, Rose is much wiser than her fellow students and while it takes tragedy for this to happen to her, I enjoyed this part of her story.

As I predicted, I was pulling hard for Dimitri and Rose to get together. Every chapter I was hoping was the chapter that would lead them to continue their steamy romance, and I was constantly thinking KISS KISS!! Needless to say I got a little frustrated at times. Dimitri and Rose are swiftly becoming one of my favorite book couples!

If you are a little late on the uptake like I am in reading Vampire Academy, I most definitely recommend that you keep reading after book one. This book was worth the read!

8 out of 10

Happy Reading :)

Allison
[...]

I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. This books picks up shortly after the first book in the series. Rose is still in training with Dimitri and feelings run strong between the two but cannot be acted upon, with both of them being Lissa's (a Moroi princess and Rose's best friend) future guardians. There are some attacks on the Moroi royal families. This sends fear of what should be done to stop the Strigoi. Some feel it is time for the Moroi to fight beside their guardians and learn offensive magic, whilst others believe its not their place to fight. While the adults argue, some of the students sneak away to deal with the threat themselves.

The thought process of Rose is easy to be sympathetic with and believable. The characters are great and very individual to themselves. I continue to enjoy the vampire hierarchy in this book, combined with the differences of Strigoi, vdampir, and Moroi.

**Mild Spoiler**: There is one character death that was sad to witness but Rose's reaction to it was very well written. I am excited to continue with this series. It has definitely exceeded expectations.

This was better than the first book but I still find that none of it really sticks in my mind once I'm done. I only finished this book two days ago and yet already I find that I have trouble recalling exactly what happened. I still find Rose mostly annoying though she did have some moments where I thought maybe she was learning something. But then a Rose/Dmitri scene would come along and it would become glaringly evident how juvenile she can be. If I thought Dmitri was even the slightest bit interesting, I'd be offended on his behalf that the author seems hell bent on making him Rose's one true love. Since I still find him just as bland as I did in book one, I feel like he's a good match for Rose because then at least it saves any of the other male characters - you know, the ones who actually have personalities -from being wasted on Rose. I think I might have enjoyed this series more if Lissa had been the female lead instead of Rose. I also really like Christian so their relationship is one I could potentially get behind.

This book picks up at St.Valdmir the school for vampires where Rose and Dimitri goes out to this place where Rose her to take her Guardian test to find a royal family killed by their enemies. Rose and Dimitri has to go back to the school and inform them of there findings. In the mean time the school put the Guardians on high alert and locks down the school.

It's winter break and they still has plans to go to this ski resort regardless of the attacks that is happening. The parents that is able to come, flies in to spend the time with their kids. A lot of the parents are Guardians so that's a good thing because they can protect there love ones.

Ms. Hathaway is one and this is Rose mother, she wasn't there to raise Rose so there's a lot of tension between the two. When Rose mother appears in one of her classes to tell her story of a Guardian, Rose sits there and listens but challenges her about her knowledge to find herself out of line and getting kicked out once again.

Lisa and Christian are still a couple and Christian auntie Tasha appears at the school to step on a lot of people feet. She tries to stay clear of all the ones she know from her last visit. But she didn't know she was stepping on Rose toes with her liking of Dimitri.

Dimitri put his trust in Rose to tell her that another attack had happen and where the enemy was about and she goes back and tells the one person she thought she could trust and that was the biggest mistake she could have made.

A friend of Rose who goes by the name Mason calls Rose on her way of life and challenges her to a run on the ski and confesses his love for her. But she don't feel the same and realize that her heart belongs to Dimitri but before she could tell him this something happens.

This books is so good and it's the 2nd in the series, I highly recommend this to all readers.

find time to fit in this book. It's been sitting on my shelf forever! I somehow forgot how much I enjoyed the first book (I read so many) and when I started in on this one, I fell in love all over again.
Rose is getting the hang of being a student again at Vladimir's Academy, she has been doing double time to get caught up, she has made some good friends, and things have been going well, except for the love and lust with Dmitri. Rose has settled into the idea of a nice peaceful winter break, right after her big field test. Everything changes when Rose encounters trouble on her field test and a mass murder of Moroi's puts every on edge.

The school is now on lockdown and everyone's holiday plans are canceled. The students must stay together. The school enforces this by planning a ski trip for all the students that is mandatory. A ski trip sounds fun with your best friend, your hot instructor crush, his new girlfriend, the mother you never see, and a boy who has a crush on you, oh and don't forget the Strigoi threat is still looming. With all the temptation of fun, of course Rose finds trouble!

I really enjoyed this installment as much as the first. It was a little slow at the beginning but once it started rolling and all heck broke loose, it was thrill after thrill. This book seems to get a little bit darker than the first and we see a side of Rose and her friends that was not expected.

I can't help but love all the characters, even the new ones. The author just keeps bringing them in and I keep falling. I really liked seeing more layers of Rose in this book. We get to see her relationship troubles with her mom, and her struggles with some emotional baggage. She is still snaky which is the main reason I love her so, and of course still kicks butt. We also see a lot more of some of the other students. We see more of Christian and really get up close and personal with Mason, a boy who has it bad for Rose. Then we have a new character, an older more troubled, and a tad bit on the dark side Moroi named Adrian, who currently owns my heart.

The action is nonstop, the thrills are exciting, the romance is alluring, and the story is intriguing, what is there not to love. I really do love this series. I am going to try to get through so more of them in the new future!

Going off of the title and summary, this book sounds a little weak. The whole winter break thing seems really "kiddie." Don't judge a book by its cover, though. The second novel in the Vampire Academy series has quite the bite. I know, I know. Bad pun. I'm sorry but I just couldn't help myself. :)

A couple of extra layers are added to the plot established in Vampire Academy. We get more the of the forbidden love (our fave) between Rose and Dmitri, some new characters are introduced, including a certain parent whom I won't disclose, and we find out just how ruthless the evil Strigoi vampires are in Frostbite. Rose grows up a lot in this book. Of course, she has her dumb moments but the events at the end leave her forever changed.

Kudos to Richelle Mead for her neat endings. I loved the raven at the end of Vampire Academy and Dmitri's last line in Frostbite leaves readers wanting to start book three immediately.

Just One Gripe:
We've settled amongst ourselves how to pronounce Moroi (more-eye) but how do you say Strigoi? Stri-go-ee? Stri-go-eye? We can't decide!

The Best Thing About This Book:
Rose's fighting. If we doubted her guardian ability before, we definitely don't now.

Over two years ago I started reading this series. I read the first book Vampire Academy and loved it. I don't know why I didn't continue on with the series, but I really wish I had kept reading them. Now that I am back to reading them, I am just glad to have the whole set so I don't have to stop again!

We return back to St. Vladimir Academy shortly after the last one left off. Rose is still training with Dimitri and protective of Lissa. Lissa is still in love Christian and Mia is still the witch of the group. Now though, the Strigoi are getting bolder and smarter though. When they target the Royal families by working with humans, many will die, and few will make it until the end of the book.

While Rose tended to get on my nerves just a tad bit with her whining and attitude, I found that I was willing to embrace it because it is that personality that makes her Rose. Without the bad attitude, she wouldn't be the character we love. I could understand some of the resentment she had towards her Mother, but I still wanted to slap Rose at times and to tell her to show her Mother some respect. For all of her Mother's fault, she is still her Mother and a strong fighter at that.

Mason was great in this book. I really wanted him to have a happy ending, but I just didn't want it to be with Rose. Dimitri will always be the one I hope Rose ends up with no matter what. I just feel a better chemistry is evolving between Dimitri and Rose. Mason though does have some strong traits that made me swoon. I loved his loyalty to his friends, and his love for Rose felt to me to be more than just a crush. I seriously cried for hours after his final scene in the book. When Rose protected him and wouldn't let anyone near them was truly heartbreaking. In a way, I wish the author wouldn't have put me through this but I do know it was a story that helped the book progress.

Dimitri is still Dimitri. He is still sexy and fierce, but he does show a softer side in this book. I loved seeing him struggle with his emotions towards Rose. It just goes to show how much he is holding back where Rose is concerned. They both have feelings for each other, but they also know they can't act on them. When Dimitri is presented with a chance to have a different job opportunity along with a different female, I felt what Rose was feeling in her heart. I was jealous, angered, and overall disappointed at the thought of him leaving. When his decision is revealed though, it is sweet and so Dimitri.

I think I loved this book even more than the first one. The author knows how to write perfectly and makes reading the series exciting and suspenseful. The romance is sweet, hot and perfect as well with plenty of action on the battle field to keep it balanced. Another hit from a well loved author and a series that I will continue reading this time!

What would you do if everything you knew came to an abrupt end? If no place were safe anymore? If death and heartbreak became all-encompassing? This is the premise of Frostbite, the second book of the Vampire Academy series. After escaping from the threats in the previous novel, Rose is trying to find some normality in her life at St. Vladimir's school. However, the massive Strigoi attacks prevent such a thing. Add the shattering of her relationship with Dimitri, the intrussive thoughts from Lisa's mind, and the arrival of mysterious characters, and it becomes a matter of time until Rose breaks down. It seems as though danger follow's her whenever she goes, a danger that overpowers anything she had experienced before. Death is a shadow that embraces even the most powerful; it is closer than ever.
Frostbite sets the tone for the rest of the Vampire Academy series. While the first book dealt more with the school drama and politics, in Frostbite, it is the personal claustrophobia and the feelings of loneliness which prevail, all set to emphasize the continuous heartbreak and loss. Frostbite is the book where the real coming of age begins, as Rose is forced to deal with situations that change her outlook of life forever. Guilt and regret are always present, generating despair in the protagonist as she finds herself unable to escape from the terrors that surround her.
I loved this book as it set a glimpse of the darkness that prevailed in the rest of the series. Richelle Mead excels in creating dark and gloomy atmospheres; I found myself sharing the rollercoaster of emotions that Rose experimented. All decisions made throughout the novel carried consequences, even the most fatal ones, which made the coming of age more real. I highly recommend that you read Frostbite even if the first book wasn't entirely to your liking. New characters are added to the series and others get a more predominant role. The novel uses these additions to work on Rose's and Dimitri's character development. The story is compelling, with both light and dark moments, although the later ones prevail as the dominant mood of the novel. The title is a reference to the setting in the ski-lodge but it also works as a metaphor for the feelings that accompany the loss of innocence and the facing of death.

It's always frustrating to read a book starring astoundingly dim characters. And in Frostbite, the characters are sooooooooooo stupid. And I don't think those eleven o's adequately represent how stupidly the characters behave in this volume. People are dying left and right and everyone decides that it's the perfect time for a ski resort vacation. Like doomed characters in a horror movie, Rose and company knowingly venture into dangerous territory where evil Strigoi are known to live. Even worse, Richelle Mead continues to treat us readers as if we're unintelligent. The writing is still weak--Mead or her editor expect us to believe "examinated" is a word--and foreshadowing takes the obvious form of the narrator thinking, "You know, there's SOMETHING important about this information I just learned, but it can't be revealed yet so I'm just going to strongly allude to it." Newsflash: characters and readers alike can be smart. Don't over simplify.

And still...I quite enjoyed this. While the first half is bogged down by teenagers behaving too teenagerly, the final part is super fun. Mead introduces Adrian, a Moroi vampire described as "charismatic." His charisma drips off the page--he is sexy, charming, and awesome. The stakes are slowly rising too, boding well for the rest of the series.

As I was reading this, I was struck by the thought that Paranormal Romance is such a bizarre genre. It rapidly oscillates between trivial love games and matters of life and death. This blend of fluff and serious can make the genre endlessly exasperating. I don't think Mead managed to adequately balance these two acts in Frostbite. But this book served to develop Rose into a loveable heroine. I've always adored young upstart heroes and heroines that surprise wizened adults with their success. Rose's growth in this book leads to such a moment. For me, it was worth sticking through ski slope shenanigans, hot tub parties, and ludicrously unintelligent decisions to reach that point. (And okayyy, maybe I kinda liked those hot tub parties.)

Frostbite gets five fabulous frustrating stars. My God was I going bonkers while reading this book, seriously! A good bonkers, but bonkers all the same. Frostbite was one of those books that has you yelling at the characters, things like "STOP, I KNOW WHAT'S COMING. JUST STAY PUT AND LISTEN FOR ONCE." and of course the characters don't listen because they're simply fictional characters that can't be rewritten. Either way this book was amazing, even better than Vampire Academy in my opinion. If you liked the action in Vampire Academy you'll love it in this because it's multiplied in every way imaginable. More kick ass Rose scenes, more steamy Dimitri scenes, and man oh man do Christian and Lissa get a bit frisky. I really enjoyed the pacing of Frostbite, I flew through it (literally read the whole book on Saturday) and I'm dying for the third.

With sequels new characters are always risky, some can be pointless and others feel forced. With Frostbite I really enjoyed all of the new characters Richelle introduced to us. Tasha, Christian's aunt, is introduced to us which is really cool. I really wanted to learn more about him and we get to! Whenever you hear about this series you hear about the infamous teams! Team Aiden or Team Dimitri? Well we finally get to meet this Aiden guy that's so famous and he's pretty freaking cool if you ask me. I'm not sure if I'm swooning over him yet, we'll have to see if he charms me as his character shows throughout the books. We also learn a lot more about Lissa and her 'abilities', so far I'm feeling lucky I'm not in her situation. We also get to see more of Rose and her kickassness(?)! I love her and all of her flaws, she's just a really cool chick. We see her go through some insane things in this book and grow up a bit which I really enjoyed. The world of the vampires is explained in a much simpler way and I feel comfortable that I can keep track of what's going on now, which is always a plus.

Frostbite was an emotional roller coaster it had me on the edge of my seat (couch) the entire time and I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this frustratingly awesome book to all you vampire/paranormal lovers out there. I'm now going to crawl back into my hole and wait until I can go get the rest of the series from my cousin.

Favorite Quotes

"By the way, my name's Rose Hathaway. I'm seventeen years old, training to protect and kill vampires, in love with a completely unsuitable guy, and I have a best friend whose weird magic could drive her crazy.
Hey, no one said high school was easy."

"You can't force love, I realized. It's there or it isn't. If it's not there, you've got to be able to admit it. If it is there, you've got to do whatever it takes to protect the ones you love."

Isaiah rolled his eyes. "Good God. What a Noble lot. You're all Spartacus, aren't you?"

As a fan of Young Adult Vampire fiction, such as Stephanie Meyer's Twilight saga for example, the Vampire Diaries by L J Smith and the Morganville Vampires etc. I was so excited to discover Vampire Academy! `VA' is a spellbinding supernatural read filled with deadly danger, sinister secrets and spinechilling suspense. I would highly recommend this series to all who love Vampires and are looking for something else to read within the Young Adult genre, since the "sparkly Vampire" success.

When love and jealousy collide on the slopes...winter break turns deadly

St. Vladimir's Academy is on high alert since a massive Vampire attack. This year's trip to the wintry peaks of Idaho has become mandatory. Rose Hathaway can't escape guy troubles, which resembles that of a love triangle akin to Bella, Edward and Jacob. Her relationship with gorgeous tutor Dimitri can never be and her closest friend has now confessed that he has a crush on her... The glittering winter landscape is so picturesque but there is danger lurking in the shadows, and in Rose's heart. Forbidden temptation lies behind the iron gates.

Exciting, intense and addictive I was sucked into this story so quickly that it did not take me long to read and finish it. Unable to put the book down, I was entranced by Rose's connection with her best friend and the guy whom she loves ~ so similar to Bella Swan and her loyal friend Jacob versus the drop-dead gorgeous Vampire Edward Cullen. If you love Twilight, Vampire Diaries and love triangles then you will really love Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series that contains electrifying drama and shocking revelations!

"I wished the kiss could have gone on forever. Breaking the embrace, he ran a few fingers through my hair and down my cheek..."

I have to say I'm actually surprised that this book was able to improve over the first Vampire Academy book. I believe I gave the first book 3.5 stars but this one has earned the extra star here. This review will be pretty much spoiler free.

Much like the first book Frostbite was a quick fun read. I normally don't zip through books within 1-2 days which is refreshing that this series again doesn't get bogged down with minor details. I was also glad that Rose's snarky attitude was tamed down a bit as it was way over the top in the first book at times. I also found my self enjoying the chemistry between Rose and Dimitri even if the relationship is still on the creepy side.

I wouldn't really say there is anything bad about this book, the writing is pretty good for a YA but the plot has more holes in it then a Minnesota road in spring and it takes Rose a ridiculously long time to catch up on things that are painfully obvious. I will give props to the author for having the guts to kill off somewhat main characters which adds some suspense to the story. Overall I'd say give the series a shot. So far it's an entertaining light read.

Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

FROSTBITE is an A+ graphic novel! Amazing! ~ Under the Covers

OH.MY.GOD!!! I loved this graphic novel! Even though FROSTBITE is not my favorite book of the VA series, I definitely thought that Mead, Dragoon and Viceli really upped their game in the second book of this graphic novel series. I'll break it down into parts so it's a little clearer...

THE COVER:

The cover features Rose and Christian front and center, surrounded by those red-eyed Strigoi! Rose is definitely looking badass and Christian - *sigh* I love Christian - is looking like he's ready to kick someone's ass with his Fire powers. I am loving this cover, way more than the first book.

THE SET UP:

In the first beginning pages of the graphic novel, they go into great detail about the world and what has already happened in the first book. They did such a great job that I think that even if you didn't read the books or even the first graphic novel, you wouldn't feel lost at all. It's a nice refresher for loyal fans and a great recap for new ones. A+ job on that!

THE ART:

I know I said that I wasn't too thrilled about the art in the first graphic novel. I'm going to eat my words. In this one, I thought the pictures were far more clearer, the angles and POVs moved the story forward and the action sequences definitely kicked some serious ass! The one character that I'm still a little meh about is Lissa. She looks better in this one for sure, but it's something about her elongated nose that doesn't fit her face. Christian grew on me more and more. And Mason - oh, Mason! - he looked cute as a button!

And then there's the introduction of a major character that I TOTALLY FORGOT ABOUT! Someone smack me on the side of the head! How could I forget? I think I was just really focused on the whole thing with Mason and knowing what's going to happen that I forgot about my boyfriend, Adrian Ivashkov.

Adrian, Adrian, Adrian. Let me just spit it out - HE LOOKED SMOKING!!! Definitely my favorite visual adaptation in the novels so far! He looked exactly how I pictured him in my head! Another A+ job on him!

THE STORY:

The major thing I was looking forward to was seeing how they would depict the Mason part. One word: Amazing! And for some reason, at that one particular scene, I just happened to get something in my eye. Really. It was weird.

THE BOTTOM LINE:

I LOVED IT! It had everything I loved about the books and more! After reading this, I'm tempted to go back and reread the entire VA series caused it reminded me of how much I've enjoyed it.

So this book starts immediately after the end of book 1. We still get to follow Rose, as she tries to understand what it means to be "shadow-kissed" how to help Lissa with her spirit power issues, and how to figure out boys.

All of our cast is back. Rose is still as stubborn, crazy and reckless as before. And just as bad-ass. Lissa is dealing with no longer being able to use magic, while balancing best friend time with boyfriend time. Dimitri is back, and hotter than ever. Mia even turns up, with her annoying, yet sad self. Mason turns out to profess his unrequited love for Rose. And theres a new cutie in town, that I think will make more appearences in the following books- Adrian. He's another royal, though pretty arrogant and feisty, but he keeps a deep, dark secret hidden.

The plot consists of the Strogi (bad, dead vampires) attacking the good guys. While the Morei (alive vampires) and Dhympirs (half alive vampire, half human) fight about how to solve the problem. Some think the Morei should learn to fight so they are no longer victims. Some think they should use up all the dhympirs, even the children and mothers, to protect them.
Because of the attacks, the entire school, and even others that are adults, gather together at a Ski Lodge resort to hide. But then something worse happens- the Strogies attack again- and close this time.

Some bad stuff happens, some good stuff happens... and its all very entertaining and heart wrenching.

I still wish there was more romance between Dimitri and rose- and I feel like if Adrian turns out to be a new love interest- creating a love triangle- I think Ill have to vote for him, bec there just isn't enough emotion coming from Dimitri.

Overall, this book was pretty dang good! Even better than the first. A little more romance, a faster plot, and even more action!

That's a small novel that will not create any upheaval in the Vampire world. And yet it is an interesting novel but probably not for the reasons you may think of.

It is interesting because it is told exclusively from a female point of view and you male readers will be irritated, as usual, by the fact that these women are looking at you as if you were - and you are - sex symbols and sex objects maybe even those special objects, vibrating or not, that are used to substitute your main male attribute.

Then this main character is a teenager and she is absolutely irritatingly childish, capricious, over reactive and so on and so on, the list could be long. You will thus be either thrilled if you are a girl or bored if you are a boy, except if you like being taken advantage of by girls, till you reach the last twenty-five pages when action is finally on the move and yet the end will be mishy-mashy-mushy.

The only innovation is the most racist invention I have heard of, with two races of vampires and a special half human half vampire race of guardians of one of the two vampire races. The Strigoi are the bad killing vampires who want to exterminate the other vampiristic race and humanity too why not, and certainly the guardians. These Strigoi can only reproduce in the traditional vampiristic way by exchanging blood with a human or a Moroi or a Dhampir.

Then the Moroi are the royal, monarchic vampiristic families that are good: they do not kill, they just mesmerize some humans into submission and they feed on them without killing them, at least as long as they are young enough to fabricate the blood these Moroi need. These Moroi can sexually reproduce.

And finally the mixed blood, the Dhampir who are the guardians of the Moroi, because the Moroi are unable to look after themselves, like the Emoi in the Time Machine by H.G. Wells. These dhampir are mixed blood human and Moroi or Moroi and dhampir.

This rewriting of the vampire myth along a purely racial line that is basically racist since one race cannot survive but by destroying the other is kind of reactionary if not even plain politically incorrect.

Have a good trip to the planet of racist vampirism and teenage sexual hunting.

Dr Jacques COULARDEAU

Oh.my.God. I loved this book-I devoured it actually. Frostbite was sooo much more than Vampire Academy. I think this partly has to do with the fact that most characters were already introduced in the first book so you are already aware of their story. I really like the fact that Richelle Mead put a Prologue into this book quickly detailing what happened in the first book-not spend the first several chapters rehashing the previous one like some authors tend to do. There will be spoilers in this review so if you haven't read it(which I'm certain almost everyone has by now!!)I wouldn't suggest continuing onward :P

Lissa pissed me off far less in this book than the first. The first book I found her needy, whiny, annoying and just not a great main(ish) character. Rose actually annoyed me quite a bit in the first book as well and to be honest the only characters I left actually liking a lot were Dimitri and Christian. I loved that Christian and Lissa are together now. I thought Christian was so dark and mysterious and the perfect contrast to Lissa's bubbly personality.

The plot and storyline are great in this book. After the Strigoi joined forces with the humans and are planning attacks, all of the students and their families are packed up and sent to an elite ski resort. While there we meet Adrian. Adrian has the spirit power like Lissa however he doesn't really know what it is until Lissa explains it to him. Rose is caught in a bit of a situation with three men in this book: Mason(who she has recently started seeing to try to get over Dimitri), Adrian(who she denies she likes but I know the real truth, lol) and Dimitri(who is amazing. Duh.).

A few students decide they want to leave the resort to chase Strigoi and prove they can defeat them with magic and early Guardian skills and Rose decides to follow. This is where the story really picks up and I could not actually put it down until I finished it. The entire hostage scene was very well written, it depicted a lot of emotion from the students and my heart actually shrivelled a little when Mason died trying to save Rose. I never would have thought I'd cry reading this novel, but I sobbed! Also Rose reunited with her mother and that is a very raw, realistic relationship. Her mother has essentially abandoned her for 5 years and knows next to nothing about her. Throughout the book it shows the struggle Rose has trying to connect with her again.

The end of the book is honestly the best part-Dimitri shows Rose for real, that he has feelings for her :) The ending is great: it will keep me reading the series but it's not something I would DIE to read right this second. I hate when their are massive cliffhangers in a book. I know I can just rush out to pick up the book now if I really wanted it but when the book was released that wouldn't have been the case.

Frostbite has a kick, just like the title suggests. Rose's snarky attitude is starting to cost her. Everywhere she turns, she runs into choices - about her mom, Lissa & Christian, Dimitri, Mason... not to mention Adrian! What a character! This book could stand alone, the author provides plenty of filler for a new reader to catch up on what they might have missed in Vampire Academy. That was my least favorite part - all the filler details. What I loved was Rose's character development. I learned so much about her. BFF forever!! The story picks up pace until it's sprinting. The closer I got towards the end, the harder it was to put down.

My Rating: I gotta break it down 'cause I hate giving the same rating to entirely different books:

2.5 - Filler details. I didn't need 'em and they made me yawn.
5 - Character development. Holy Cow!! This book is an essential piece of Rose's life!!
4.5 - Action. Even when I guessed what was coming, I was biting my nails. Wonderful!
3.5 - Pace. Those filler moments really set the pace for me. It started too slowly and took time to build up speed.

Overall: 4 - Good book!

The thing is... I need to discuss some details. So, this is where newbies to VA should stop and consider adding it to their TBR. (Go for it!) All you VA nuts out there...

let's talk about Frostbite!!!

This section contains Spoilers!!

Ok... first my complaint. I found myself dragging my way through the first half because I kept running into more detailed descriptions of what I had learned in VA. I am still conflicted on how I feel about that. Either my intelligence is being insulted or I am not being left behind... veeeery thoroughly. Do I say "thanks"? or "no thanks!" I started skipping entire paragraphs once the author began her review voice.

Rose - OMG!! She has always had so much attitude towards the Moroi system and rules in general. In Frostbite she learns so many hard lessons!! Her willingness to accept who she is and adjust made me just love her.

There's her mom. I totally picture this little ball of tight energy - a grown up version of Rose, just a little shorter and a little colder. Like post-hard knocks. And Rose has so much resentment towards her... that fighting scene? The one where the two of 'em are "training" and Rose is pushing her mom's buttons? How awesome was that?!?! Ha! It seemed like "black eye" was a language Rose understood, too, you know? Like suddenly she can see things (albeit reluctantly) from her mom's point of view.

Then there's Dimitri. Darn his stiff Russian exterior!! He's so set on being responsible and a good trainer, let alone guardian that he's downright COLD! Which is totally amplified with Tasha hanging around. I seriously wanted to strangle Dimitri for actually showing a casual, chatty side. I mean, I was gawking. I didn't think it was possible and here he goes showing hidden layers of tenderness... TO THE WRONG PERSON!!

Of course, this is what pushes Rose into examining whether she should hook up with someone closer to her age, too. The differences between Mason and Dimitri are too great. Mason pushes Rose into being responsible with his misplaced confidence, which is deliciously complicated. Talk about fighting yer inner bad-girl!!

Now Rose is sent into some sort of tailspin, wondering if she's really a rebel at all. Ha! She test her theory and BAM!! Bad idea! Innocent Mason jumps at the chance to prove to himself and Rose and all that stupid Moroi system that he's got a great idea and the guts to pull it off! *groan*

We can't forget Adrian, though, right? I mean, all these comments about "now you get to meet Adrian" and how Adrian competes for hottest fictional character and stuff... I had some high expectations for him. And what is he? Some hot guy that's full of himself and his position in this Moroi system who smokes and drinks... constantly. His cocky flirtations seriously got under my skin so that I was throwing him off as enthusiastically as Rose was. After all the hype, I was sooooo relieved she didn't fall for his smooth ways. I was half afraid she'd be tripping over herself over him, especially as insecure as she was at that moment.

As I'm writing this, I'm into the thick of Blood Promise and I realize Adrian's character is being revealed nice -n- slowly, peeling back layers upon layers of worthy dude underneath this smoke haze. I can't help liking him where I'm at in the series. But back in Frostbite? I was giving him pure cold shoulder. And I say that was his fault. He's just getting what he asked for. Back then.

*Pause* for a moment of awe that the author created people I can feel so strongly about!! Wow!

As for the action... the stuff that picked up speed and got to rolling faster than fast so that I was chewin' on my fingers, tense for everyone. Part of what made that entire situation amazing was that the answers were obvious. A moroi was going to have to use magic to get them out of that situation. I mean, I was screaming in frustration when they just allowed themselves to get captured. They really did take that too calmly. But they hadn't made the Human-Strigoi connection that the author set the reader up to see before they did. You know? They were thinking "humans, no problem - irritating, but not life-threatening."

I was frustrated in the torture chamber, too, because I felt so certain that they'd get too weak to fight back at all. There was such a time pressure crunch, it just about drove me crazy. I accepted that the answers weren't obvious to the characters involved, and I'm curious whether anyone disagrees. It took Rose an agonizingly long time to think of it, too.

And I did NOT expect them to lose anyone. Seriously... that was a blow that made it hard for me to review Frostbite immediately afterwards. I was in mourning.

I wondered whether everyone would deal with the death as just part of the job, too. Sort of sad, but sort of expected. And I can't tell you how awesome it was and continues to be that each person is honored as the wonderful character they were/are and not schluffed off as "doin' their duty".

Basically... this book was amazing as far as digging underneath everyone's skin and getting to know 'em all better. I can't imagine what it would have been like to read this book when it came out and have to wait for the next. ARGH!! But happily... I'm reading on my way! They are all so REAL to me!!

When you love a series as much as I did with the Vampire Academy, I will look for anything to revisit the characters again. Also, since I am starting to read more graphic novels lately, this book was able to fill both needs at one time.

While the book does not go as in depth as the books do, they are a good refresher book to help you remember things that happened in the actual novels. While we refresh our memories through this book, we also get some amazing artwork that helps bring the characters alive in our minds through sight. The artwork is amazing in my opinion. The artists really did outdo themselves with bringing little details to life with their art.

If you are wanting to read this series as a graphic novel instead of the actual book, then this book gives you a story without going overboard. I also feel that this is a great way to refresh your memory if you were fans of this series in regular print work. Overall a great addition to have if you are a serious Vampire Academy fan or if you are just starting out on the adventure.

I hate doing this to you guys, reading all the books in a series right in a row, but with these books I can't help it. I'm completely drawn into the series and come hell or high water, I don't think I can stop continuing on so please forgive me if you get a little tired of my Vampire Academy reviews, but I'm hoping that you guys love the books as much as I do!

In Frostbite, we find our characters just as we left them after Vampire Academy ended. Lissa and Christian are getting hot and heavy, Mason is completely head over heels in love with Rose and as you know, Rose is falling hard for her instructor Dimitri. As these sordid love affairs are brewing, a Strigoi attack has left the Dhampir and Moroi world on high alert. In an effort to protect the students of St. Vladimir's the've decided to bus, or rather jet, the students an their families out to a ski resort for a little protected rest and relaxation. I'm sure you can imagine that things did not go according to plan as in this book, everything they know about the Strigoi is turned upside down and Rose gets first hand knowledge at how dangerous these vamps can be.

I really did enjoy this book more than Vampire Academy. That's not to say I didn't like book one, but in Frostbite, I already had a grasp of the vocabulary and the background stories so it made it easier to read and understand. The story was a little more intense as well and I can only anticipate them getting more and more exciting and dangerous as the stories continue.

Once again, Mead presented a beautifully written story that while sometimes a little predictable, was hard to put down. Something about these books takes me until about page 100 and then I don't put the book down until I finish it. That happened with the first book as well and I'm not exactly sure what happens 100 pages into her books, but something sparks and I couldn't stop reading.

My favorite characters were still my favorites and Frostbite made me love Rose even more. In this book, she shows her age a little bit at times and she has to face the harsh reality that being a guardian isn't about jumping into situations because you think you're a badass and can take on the world. She learns through her time with Dimitri and her mother that the Strigoi are a force to be reckoned with and not easily taken down. By the end of Frostbite, Rose is much wiser than her fellow students and while it takes tragedy for this to happen to her, I enjoyed this part of her story.

As I predicted, I was pulling hard for Dimitri and Rose to get together. Every chapter I was hoping was the chapter that would lead them to continue their steamy romance, and I was constantly thinking KISS KISS!! Needless to say I got a little frustrated at times. Dimitri and Rose are swiftly becoming one of my favorite book couples!

If you are a little late on the uptake like I am in reading Vampire Academy, I most definitely recommend that you keep reading after book one. This book was worth the read!

8 out of 10

Happy Reading :)

Allison
[...]

I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. This books picks up shortly after the first book in the series. Rose is still in training with Dimitri and feelings run strong between the two but cannot be acted upon, with both of them being Lissa's (a Moroi princess and Rose's best friend) future guardians. There are some attacks on the Moroi royal families. This sends fear of what should be done to stop the Strigoi. Some feel it is time for the Moroi to fight beside their guardians and learn offensive magic, whilst others believe its not their place to fight. While the adults argue, some of the students sneak away to deal with the threat themselves.

The thought process of Rose is easy to be sympathetic with and believable. The characters are great and very individual to themselves. I continue to enjoy the vampire hierarchy in this book, combined with the differences of Strigoi, vdampir, and Moroi.

**Mild Spoiler**: There is one character death that was sad to witness but Rose's reaction to it was very well written. I am excited to continue with this series. It has definitely exceeded expectations.

This was better than the first book but I still find that none of it really sticks in my mind once I'm done. I only finished this book two days ago and yet already I find that I have trouble recalling exactly what happened. I still find Rose mostly annoying though she did have some moments where I thought maybe she was learning something. But then a Rose/Dmitri scene would come along and it would become glaringly evident how juvenile she can be. If I thought Dmitri was even the slightest bit interesting, I'd be offended on his behalf that the author seems hell bent on making him Rose's one true love. Since I still find him just as bland as I did in book one, I feel like he's a good match for Rose because then at least it saves any of the other male characters - you know, the ones who actually have personalities -from being wasted on Rose. I think I might have enjoyed this series more if Lissa had been the female lead instead of Rose. I also really like Christian so their relationship is one I could potentially get behind.

This book picks up at St.Valdmir the school for vampires where Rose and Dimitri goes out to this place where Rose her to take her Guardian test to find a royal family killed by their enemies. Rose and Dimitri has to go back to the school and inform them of there findings. In the mean time the school put the Guardians on high alert and locks down the school.

It's winter break and they still has plans to go to this ski resort regardless of the attacks that is happening. The parents that is able to come, flies in to spend the time with their kids. A lot of the parents are Guardians so that's a good thing because they can protect there love ones.

Ms. Hathaway is one and this is Rose mother, she wasn't there to raise Rose so there's a lot of tension between the two. When Rose mother appears in one of her classes to tell her story of a Guardian, Rose sits there and listens but challenges her about her knowledge to find herself out of line and getting kicked out once again.

Lisa and Christian are still a couple and Christian auntie Tasha appears at the school to step on a lot of people feet. She tries to stay clear of all the ones she know from her last visit. But she didn't know she was stepping on Rose toes with her liking of Dimitri.

Dimitri put his trust in Rose to tell her that another attack had happen and where the enemy was about and she goes back and tells the one person she thought she could trust and that was the biggest mistake she could have made.

A friend of Rose who goes by the name Mason calls Rose on her way of life and challenges her to a run on the ski and confesses his love for her. But she don't feel the same and realize that her heart belongs to Dimitri but before she could tell him this something happens.

This books is so good and it's the 2nd in the series, I highly recommend this to all readers.

find time to fit in this book. It's been sitting on my shelf forever! I somehow forgot how much I enjoyed the first book (I read so many) and when I started in on this one, I fell in love all over again.
Rose is getting the hang of being a student again at Vladimir's Academy, she has been doing double time to get caught up, she has made some good friends, and things have been going well, except for the love and lust with Dmitri. Rose has settled into the idea of a nice peaceful winter break, right after her big field test. Everything changes when Rose encounters trouble on her field test and a mass murder of Moroi's puts every on edge.

The school is now on lockdown and everyone's holiday plans are canceled. The students must stay together. The school enforces this by planning a ski trip for all the students that is mandatory. A ski trip sounds fun with your best friend, your hot instructor crush, his new girlfriend, the mother you never see, and a boy who has a crush on you, oh and don't forget the Strigoi threat is still looming. With all the temptation of fun, of course Rose finds trouble!

I really enjoyed this installment as much as the first. It was a little slow at the beginning but once it started rolling and all heck broke loose, it was thrill after thrill. This book seems to get a little bit darker than the first and we see a side of Rose and her friends that was not expected.

I can't help but love all the characters, even the new ones. The author just keeps bringing them in and I keep falling. I really liked seeing more layers of Rose in this book. We get to see her relationship troubles with her mom, and her struggles with some emotional baggage. She is still snaky which is the main reason I love her so, and of course still kicks butt. We also see a lot more of some of the other students. We see more of Christian and really get up close and personal with Mason, a boy who has it bad for Rose. Then we have a new character, an older more troubled, and a tad bit on the dark side Moroi named Adrian, who currently owns my heart.

The action is nonstop, the thrills are exciting, the romance is alluring, and the story is intriguing, what is there not to love. I really do love this series. I am going to try to get through so more of them in the new future!

Going off of the title and summary, this book sounds a little weak. The whole winter break thing seems really "kiddie." Don't judge a book by its cover, though. The second novel in the Vampire Academy series has quite the bite. I know, I know. Bad pun. I'm sorry but I just couldn't help myself. :)

A couple of extra layers are added to the plot established in Vampire Academy. We get more the of the forbidden love (our fave) between Rose and Dmitri, some new characters are introduced, including a certain parent whom I won't disclose, and we find out just how ruthless the evil Strigoi vampires are in Frostbite. Rose grows up a lot in this book. Of course, she has her dumb moments but the events at the end leave her forever changed.

Kudos to Richelle Mead for her neat endings. I loved the raven at the end of Vampire Academy and Dmitri's last line in Frostbite leaves readers wanting to start book three immediately.

Just One Gripe:
We've settled amongst ourselves how to pronounce Moroi (more-eye) but how do you say Strigoi? Stri-go-ee? Stri-go-eye? We can't decide!

The Best Thing About This Book:
Rose's fighting. If we doubted her guardian ability before, we definitely don't now.

Over two years ago I started reading this series. I read the first book Vampire Academy and loved it. I don't know why I didn't continue on with the series, but I really wish I had kept reading them. Now that I am back to reading them, I am just glad to have the whole set so I don't have to stop again!

We return back to St. Vladimir Academy shortly after the last one left off. Rose is still training with Dimitri and protective of Lissa. Lissa is still in love Christian and Mia is still the witch of the group. Now though, the Strigoi are getting bolder and smarter though. When they target the Royal families by working with humans, many will die, and few will make it until the end of the book.

While Rose tended to get on my nerves just a tad bit with her whining and attitude, I found that I was willing to embrace it because it is that personality that makes her Rose. Without the bad attitude, she wouldn't be the character we love. I could understand some of the resentment she had towards her Mother, but I still wanted to slap Rose at times and to tell her to show her Mother some respect. For all of her Mother's fault, she is still her Mother and a strong fighter at that.

Mason was great in this book. I really wanted him to have a happy ending, but I just didn't want it to be with Rose. Dimitri will always be the one I hope Rose ends up with no matter what. I just feel a better chemistry is evolving between Dimitri and Rose. Mason though does have some strong traits that made me swoon. I loved his loyalty to his friends, and his love for Rose felt to me to be more than just a crush. I seriously cried for hours after his final scene in the book. When Rose protected him and wouldn't let anyone near them was truly heartbreaking. In a way, I wish the author wouldn't have put me through this but I do know it was a story that helped the book progress.

Dimitri is still Dimitri. He is still sexy and fierce, but he does show a softer side in this book. I loved seeing him struggle with his emotions towards Rose. It just goes to show how much he is holding back where Rose is concerned. They both have feelings for each other, but they also know they can't act on them. When Dimitri is presented with a chance to have a different job opportunity along with a different female, I felt what Rose was feeling in her heart. I was jealous, angered, and overall disappointed at the thought of him leaving. When his decision is revealed though, it is sweet and so Dimitri.

I think I loved this book even more than the first one. The author knows how to write perfectly and makes reading the series exciting and suspenseful. The romance is sweet, hot and perfect as well with plenty of action on the battle field to keep it balanced. Another hit from a well loved author and a series that I will continue reading this time!

What would you do if everything you knew came to an abrupt end? If no place were safe anymore? If death and heartbreak became all-encompassing? This is the premise of Frostbite, the second book of the Vampire Academy series. After escaping from the threats in the previous novel, Rose is trying to find some normality in her life at St. Vladimir's school. However, the massive Strigoi attacks prevent such a thing. Add the shattering of her relationship with Dimitri, the intrussive thoughts from Lisa's mind, and the arrival of mysterious characters, and it becomes a matter of time until Rose breaks down. It seems as though danger follow's her whenever she goes, a danger that overpowers anything she had experienced before. Death is a shadow that embraces even the most powerful; it is closer than ever.
Frostbite sets the tone for the rest of the Vampire Academy series. While the first book dealt more with the school drama and politics, in Frostbite, it is the personal claustrophobia and the feelings of loneliness which prevail, all set to emphasize the continuous heartbreak and loss. Frostbite is the book where the real coming of age begins, as Rose is forced to deal with situations that change her outlook of life forever. Guilt and regret are always present, generating despair in the protagonist as she finds herself unable to escape from the terrors that surround her.
I loved this book as it set a glimpse of the darkness that prevailed in the rest of the series. Richelle Mead excels in creating dark and gloomy atmospheres; I found myself sharing the rollercoaster of emotions that Rose experimented. All decisions made throughout the novel carried consequences, even the most fatal ones, which made the coming of age more real. I highly recommend that you read Frostbite even if the first book wasn't entirely to your liking. New characters are added to the series and others get a more predominant role. The novel uses these additions to work on Rose's and Dimitri's character development. The story is compelling, with both light and dark moments, although the later ones prevail as the dominant mood of the novel. The title is a reference to the setting in the ski-lodge but it also works as a metaphor for the feelings that accompany the loss of innocence and the facing of death.

I'm trying to not read this series one after another so that I don't get sick and tired of the characters, so after reading some other books, I picked this one up. I didn't like this as much as the first one, though I think the ending rocked.

I really really don't like Rose. I think I've made it clear in my last review, but she's is so childish and petty. I have to keep reminding myself that she's a teenager, but sometimes that doesn't work. I admire her determination and loyalty and spunk, even her rebelliousness sometimes, but the way she's always jealous is just annoying. Grow up! The world isn't about you!

I didn't read the blurb before I read this book, but now that I read it, I realize this book is so predictable, not that it wasn't. I knew what was going to happen, who Adrian was and all that, but just like the first one, something about this book just pulled me in from beginning to finish. The pacing was perfect, with the beginning sucking me in almost immediately. The fact that it's such an easy and fast read might have something to do with it as well.

Dimitri definitely is not swoon-worthy. The more Rose thinks he's a God the more I'm kind of disgusted. Statutory rape anyone? Cuz Rose is definitely not eighteen. At the same time, he didn't feel all that powerful to me. I guess I can see why Rose "love" him, with him being older and more experienced and all, but it feels more like an infatuation than love.

Despite everything, the ending was amazing. I can't believe what happened, but I really couldn't put it down. I felt sorry for Rose at the end. Poor Rose. It was a pretty epic ending. And gory too. Creeps me out just thinking about it.

I'll definitely read the next one. I feel like I am now invested in the storyline and the characters. I can't wait to see how Moroi society changes, and I want the Victor plotline to pick up again. Four more books to go!

Ning @ Reading by Kindle Fire

I enjoyed Vampire Academy a lot. As the first book in the series, I thought it was excellent. So imagine my surprise/glee when I started Frostbite and I realized that they really do just keep on getting better.

Frostbite really gripped me from the first few pages. I loved the new characters that were introduced in this book, like Aiden and Christian's aunt, and I loved getting more of Mason and Christian. There's so many characters in this series and I can totally understand why it'd be difficult to make them all seem real, but Richelle Mead didn't let it stop her. She clearly didn't want any of her characters to be flat.

I also enjoyed reading the characters outside of St. Vladimir's. As much as I love boarding schools, I really liked being able to see even more of the awesome world Richelle Mead built. Even if it was just a ski lodge and a town a little outside of it, it was still cool to see how the moroi/strigoi/dhampirs functioned outside of St. Vladimir's.

And jeez, the main storyline was totally epic. The climax blew me away and I definitely cried. A lot. I won't get into any spoilers, but I just felt so bad for Rose and all she's been through, and she's just so brave and strong and awesome. Seriously - Rose is an amazing protagonist. She definitely has her flaws, but that's what makes her so real.

The further delving into the bond between Rose and Lissa, as well more explanation to why it existed was really neat. Richelle Mead really thought about what she wanted the bond to achieve and why it existed, and that was evident.

I also loved getting more of a backstory on Rose herself. Her mother played a role in this book and it was interesting to actually read her first hand, rather than reading Rose's vague reminiscences of what childhood she had.

And, ooh, Dimitri! I mean, I don't really have anything else to say about that, but I love all the bickering between him and Rose. It was cute. It was also very natural feeling. While I liked Aiden in this book (sort of), I wasn't really all that into him. He's way too cocky, but I'd have to see how he is in future books to really make up my mind.

Overall, Frostbite was fantastic. It exceeded the first in awesomeness. When I finished it, I knew I had to run out to the store and buy Shadow Kiss right away.

I think that I can easily say (at the moment) that Vampire Academy is my new favorite series! I may even venture to say that Frostbite was better than the first book! Maybe it's because we already know the main characters, maybe it's because the bulk of the book was set at a ski resort - which is one of my favorite places in the world! (I live in Colorado for a reason!!)

The book starts out at St Vladimir's, with Rose and Dimitri (*swoon*) on their way to Rose's test with another Guardian. It turns out that all Dhampir Guardians take a big skills test before their final year of training, sort of a PSAT for Vampire Body Guards. Only, when they get to the test location they find the scene of a pretty brutal massacre. And worse? The strigoi may be using humans to attack the Moroi Royal Families.

This leads way for the entire population of St Vlad's to take a giant ski trip together, figuring that there is safety and strength in numbers. Of course, stuck in such a small space leads to lots of sexual tension! Lissa and Christian are going strong, Rose is in love with Dimitri who may be in love with Christian's aunt. Mason is in love with Rose, and Mia (Rose's archenemy) is in love with Mason. And everyone seems to think the mysterious Adrian and Rose have something going on.

What I love about this book:

* Dimitri. At the moment, the Russian Dhampir is at the top of my book crush list! (Well, near the top - there is a certain boy from a French Boarding School who really has my heart.)
* The Ski trip! Really, a great way to add in new characters that would have no business being at the school. I just loved the whole trip; it made me anxious for winter so I can hit the slopes!
* Rose's Mom. This was a relationship that I didn't expect to see in this book; the interaction between Rose and her Mother. I think that Richelle wrote it really well, the hostility and anger that Rose has for being abandoned, her mothers desire to do what's best for her daughter. The whole thing was great!
* Mason, and his love for Rose. I just adore his affection for her.

What I didn't love:

*That Lissa (or the bond) didn't have a huge role in this book, I felt it centered more around Rose/Mason/Dimitri and Lissa was just a side thought.
* Mason's Aunt Tasha. Maybe it was just that she was taking Dimitri's attention away from Rose, but she really just got under my skin.

All in all, Frostbite was an excellent book! I couldn't seem to put it down.

Review updated June 1st, 2015.

Though it's true that the plot of this novel does sound a little juvenile in places, I can assure you that's far from fact. This novel is a lot darker than its predecessor, Vampire Academy, and it will definitely keep you hooked until the very end. In all honesty, I actually preferred this sequel and I cannot wait to dive into the next book as soon as humanly possible.

Through Dimitri's training, Rose has grown up a lot since we first met her in Vampire Academy, and those changes really shine through in this novel. Though it's true that she is still very young in a lot of ways, her ability to act with reason has improved greatly. Unfortunately, she does still have a habit of making some rash decisions and the tragedy that occurs towards the end of this novel - though not entirely her fault - could have had a different outcome if she just asked for help. Nevertheless, I absolutely adore Rose and I can't wait to see how she grows throughout the rest of the series.

And then there's Dimitri (cue swooning). I don't know how this man manages to ensnare me so completely, especially considering his near-relationship with Rose is quickly coming to a head. A decision was made at the very end of this novel that will shape them throughout the rest of the series, and while I can't talk about it for fear of spoilers, I will say that I'm still standing firm with my guess that the road ahead is not going to be easy for these two.

I didn't talk about Christian in my review of Vampire Academy, but he was a much more prominent character in this sequel. In all honesty, I'm not entirely sure what I think of him. His walls are practically impenetrable for everyone other than Lissa, and while I understand his need to keep people at a distance, it makes it very difficult to connect with him. Don't get me wrong, he has the makings of an absolutely fantastic character, but I think he needs to start opening up. With the introduction of his aunt, Tasha Ozera, I think that change may come sooner rather than later. I absolutely loved Tasha, and found her take on Moroi magic to be a good outlook. Why should they all hide behind their guardians, especially if they're willing to fight? I can see offensive Moroi magic becoming a major political debate, and I can't wait to see what comes out of it.

The story itself is more heavily based around the Strigoi in this novel, and it was interesting to learn a little more about them. Of course, the fact that they're getting smarter - and thus, more dangerous - is a little terrifying, and I have a feeling we haven't even begun to scratch the surface when it comes to the things that the Strigoi are capable of. Something big is going to go down in the next couple of books and I can't even begin to imagine what Mead has in store for her characters.

Overall, Frostbite made for a wonderful sequel. Though the subject matter is a little darker than Vampire Academy, the setting and characters lighten it up considerable. Mead has mastered the art of making us feel comfortable in her world and I'm beyond excited to explore more of it.

Frostbite is the Vampire Academy follow up and while it not my favorite book so far, I certainly enjoyed it. The story starts off pretty quickly but just as fast as it starts, it begins to slow down. However, after a certain point in the story, it picks up and I couldn't read fast enough. Rose is still charming as ever, Dimitri is still an untouchable God, and Lissa and Christian are sickeningly cute as expected. Even newcomer Adrian left an impression on me.

I wasn't expecting the ending and I found myself shedding some tears and worried about what it would mean for Rose. I can't wait to see what happens next. Onto Shadow Kiss!

You can check out the review at www.booksandswoons.com

After a Strigoi attack (which Rose and Dimitri witnessed the aftermath of), the school goes under extreme lock down with extreme security. I know, its extreme! lol. The school is packed with guardians...including Rose's famous mother O.O Yeah, that was as interesting as it sounds, lol. I know they don't get along...but whoa! Anyway, to keep students extra safe, they decided to go to a ski resort place for winter break. If they only knew what would happen...

A few students, including Mason (love him!), Mia (yeah, surprise, surprise), and Mason's friend Eddie, decide to take matters into their own hands by going after the Strigoi (in Spokane, WA...I was there last weekend O.O Yikes!) themselves since the adults seemed to be doing nothing. Pretty stupid, huh? Rose thought so too, which is why she decided to go after them. Plus, she feels a little guilty because Mason really likes her and she's tried really hard to love him back the way he loves her since its impossible for her to be with Dimitri. Which I find hard to understand because I absolutely love Mason! Oh, and did I mention that Rose gets help from Christian? Who would've thought such thing was possible? lol. But they actually make a great team, even though they don't like each other. Their plan: find Mason and the rest before they run into any Strigoi and get them back to the ski place. If only it was as easy as it sounded... [spoiler]

I really liked this book. The series has a very good story line, even though I cried like a baby when...when...I cant say it again! Its just sooooo sad! Anyway, cant wait for book 3!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Spoiler Alert!

[spoiler]--The Strigoi ended up catching not just the 3 runaways, but all 5 kids! It was terrible and I was totally freaking out! But they hatched a plan and an opportunity to escape came up and I was very relieved. And then...and then one of the Strigoi killed Mason! I was soooo devastated and crying my freakin' eyeballs out (though anatomically impossible)! As I write this I can feel moister gather in my eyes :( But then Rose being the badass she is, killed the mothertrucking Strigoi! I guess there was one good thing out of this whole mess.

Frostbite is the second graphic novel to be adapted from the Vampire Academy Series. If you have not read the actual book series. I recommend that you do. There is so much more in the books that you just are not able to put into a graphic novel.

The story of this book/graphic novel is someone is picking of the royal families one at a time. The strigoi (the bad vampire's that kill human's moroi and dhampir's to gain strength) are using the unexpected to achieve this. We run into love, anger, loss, and unexpected achievement's.

In this we meet new character's.

Janine Hathaway: Rose Hathaway's mother and Guardian to one of the royal families.

Adrian Ivashkov: Lissa's cousin. Also has special abilities but if you have not read the books I will not mention what. (Also this is my favorite character in this entire series.)

Tasha Ozera: Christian's aunt and survivor of strigoi attack. (Later on in the series she plays a major role in the series.)

I loved that they were able to adapt this book into images so well without leaving out too much the important stuff. Though the ending still get's me every time. To see it in images other than my mind makes it more real in the imaginary world of VA.

I recommend reading this if you are a fan of the series. If you have not read it yet. Please read the books first starting with Vampire Academy. Then read the graphic novel's!

from Murphy's Library

Frostbite`s prologue is great for those who don't like when a sequel starts making a recap of its previous book, so they can just skip it and get into the second Vampire Academy book.

Rose is ready to take her Qualifier exame, the test/interview all novice guardians are required to pass during their junior year at St. Vladimir's Academy. Since she was away with Lissa during her junior year, she couldn't take hers, so now it is time to do it. Dimitri takes her to Arthur Schoenberg, a legend, one of the greatest Strigoi slayers in living guardian history. However, once they get there, they find out something terrible has happened: the Badica's family has been murdered, their guardians included--which means Schoenberg, the legend, was killed as well. It seems the Strigoi are going after every royal family--and Rose immediately worries about Lissa, the last Dragomir.

If that weren't enough to keep Rose's mind busy, she also has to deal with her mother, someone she barely knows, because she's at the Academy, working. Janine and Rose have a bad relationship--if you could count it as a relationship--, Rose blames her for being absent for years. When all the students go away for a ski trip, it was meant to end it up in trouble. Christian's aunt, Tasha, seems to be particularly interested on Dimitri, making Rose have a hard time swallowing her own feelings. She also meets Adrian Ivashkov, a royal Moroi who seems to be interested on her and I'm sure is gonna play an important role somehow on this story on the future. And, of course, there's Mason: he's clearly in love with Rose, and there's no way she can tell him her heart belongs to another man.

Rose grows up visibly on this book--although she still has a long way ahead her--, and I couldn't put it down. I read it on the road, while I was on my way to NY--which means I read it in less than 5 hours!--, and it put a smile on my lips when I finished reading it and looked over the bus window and saw I was at Times Square LOL I couldn't help myself and went to Borders to buy the Shadow Kiss, the third book of this series, on the same day. Yeah, I think I'm hooked on this story.

Book 2 in this fantastic series has a grisly opening. Rose gets a healthy dose of realism when she discovers a massive Strigoi attack on a Moroi family. Strigoi aren't known for working in large groups, so this attack has the school in chaos. It's winter break at St. Vladimir's but families are too scared to allow their children to come home. To keep the students safe, they congregate at a posh ski resort that is heavily guarded. More Guardians are brought in, including Rose's kick-ass, respected, Strigoi-killing mother, Janine Hathaway. Too bad Rose's opinion of her mother is anything but perfect. Mommy issues, anyone? The Moroi get together to talk strategy, and Christian's aunt Tasha brings up a great idea that is shot down due to her family's history. And maybe because the Moroi find it completely out of question. Some of the students aren't happy that the Moroi are bickering about the threat instead of acting...

Mason, Rose's fellow Guardian-in-training and best guy friend, has a major crush on her. Rose realizes that he could be good for her but is conflicted about how to handle the relationship while completely enraptured by Dimitri, someone she feels she can never have. Oh, dear irresistible, forbidden Dimitri. What is a girl to do? It doesn't help that Tasha, a beautiful, fierce, available royal is flirting with Dimitri and breaking open his hard shell via laughter. Rose is furious and very upset, but does she even have a say?

Rose is also transported into Lissa's head more due to Lissa's overwhelming emotional states. She and Christian are getting serious, and with that comes exploration. Sounds like a situation any best friend would like to find themselves in, no? Ha, not. Lissa was not as prominent in this book, and while she serves as a very important piece in this series, I'm still not enamored by her character. She is Rose's best friend, but sometimes I feel like that is a one-way street. However, Lissa learns more about Spirit in this book, and can we just say that her abilities far surpass those of any of the other magical elements. So rad. And I adore Christian. His witty, snarky comments liven up the pages of a sometimes very somber series. He's one of my favorite characters, for sure.

A new character is introduced - Adrian Ivashkov, a royal Moroi and great-nephew of the queen, Tatiana. Adrian is hot for Rose, and makes his intensions known upfront. Adrian is quite hot himself and is known as a lady killer. He's also quite the lush, and reeks of alcohol and tobacco 24/7. Self-medicating, perhaps? Rose is inexplicably drawn to him but resists his attempts. He also has the ability to visit her in her dreams, which is creepy beyond belief, but quite intriguing. Who is this guy?

Three of Rose's friend decide to leave the safe confines of the ski resort in search of the Strigoi group that is responsible for the recent kills. 3 students decide to take matters into their own hands. Not a good equation. When Rose hears of this, she asks for Christian's assistance, and they set off to save their comrades. Seeing Rose and Christian work as a team was quite exciting and I look forward to more of that! However, what Rose and crew are confronted with will forever change their lives.

Throughout this book, you see a major growth in Rose. She is no longer the party girl with a questionable reputation, one who would jump at the chance to show off. Rose is now the voice of reason and remains level-headed in the midst of danger. She has matured greatly. This series smacks you around with emotions, as well as a healthy does of action. The plot advances, the characters grow, and the world expands. Good stuff!

This is the second book in the Vampire Academy Series and I loved it!! It went a lot faster then the first one (probably bc I already knew who all of the main characters were). This was fast and again, it is not your typical Vampire book. I cannot wait to read the third book! I am fascinated with Richelle Mead and this is the second series that I am reading by her currently! She is great and I would recommend her and this series to anyone!

From the Back Cover:

Rose Hathaway's got serious guy trouble. Her gorgeous tutor Dimitri has his eye on someone else, her friend Mason has a huge crush on her, an dshe keeps getting stuck in her best friend Lissa's head while she's making out with her boyfriend, Christian.

Then a massive Strigoi attack puts St. Vladmir's on high alert, and the Academy crawls with Guardianss- including the legendary Janine Hathaway...Rose's formidable, long-absent mother. The Strigoi are closing in, and the Academy's not talking any risk. This year, St/ Vlad's holiday ski trip is mandatory.

But the glittering winter lanscape and the posh Idaho resort only provide the illusion of safety. When three students run away to strike back against the deadly Strigoi, Rose must join forces with Christian to rescue them. Only this time, Rose-and her heart-are in more danger than she ever could have imagined...

My Thoughts: Frostbite is the second book in the Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead, and I couldn't read it without comparing it with the 1st book.

Now that the readers were introduced to Mead's original vampire universe in detail in Vampire Academy, in Frostbite Richelle Mead could concentrate on the plot and character development. The main mystery/plot line in Frostbite was the exploration of the threat the Strigoi constitute, which was only alluded to in Vampire Academy.

The setting is exciting: for Christmas holidays the school goes to a very exclusive and posh ski resort, where skiing, partying and other troubles ensues.

Rose is back with more problems than ever, though most of her problems in Frostbite are mainly those of a normal girl her age: Lissa is forsaking her because she spends all her time with her new boyfriend, Christian, Mason (Rose's best guy friend) is trying hard to become more than friends with Rose, Dimitri is still forbidden and still oh so irresisitible (but now there is also Tasha (the beautiful royal aunt of Christian) who is openly flirting with him, calling him by nicknames and who manages to make Dimitri laugh!), a new boy appears on the scene to whom Rose is unexplainably drawn and who is nothing but trouble (Adrian Ivashkov), and if that wasn't enough Rose's absent mom comes to the school, and Rose's abandonment issues are seriously wracking havoc. So as you can see, life without vampire threats is eventful enough for Rose.

At times I was feeling sorry for Rose, because she really had so much on her plate and noone she could confide in or just talk things through. And now I come to the point which enraged me in Frostbite: Lissa. I understand that she is vulnerable and there is an established dynamic between her and Rose where Rose does everything to take care of her and protect her, but the way she didn't care for Rose in Frostbite made me so angry. Friendship should be about two people being attentive to each other, and I understand that Lissa not having the magical bond to Rose does not know of her moods and feelings from start, but that is why she should at least be attentive to her or talk to her! Rose needed a friend, and Lissa as her best friend was pretty much absent from the equation for most of the novel. She was neither there as emotional support nor as just a physical friend. It's nice and good that she can always count on Rose, but I felt bad on behalf of Rose seeing that not only didn't she get the same consideration, but not even the attention of an ordinary friend. Sure, so far Lissa has not proven to be such an interesting character, but as a supporting character she is Rose's best friend and she didn't live up to her role in Frostbite.

Mason, oh Mason. *sighs* If you have read my review of Vampire Academy, you know that he is one of my favourite characters (and if you have read the series I'm sure you understand why I love him :-) ). He is cute, thoughtful, caring and so helpful to Rose. He was adorable in Frostbite too, and not wanting to spoil anything at all, that's all I'm going to say.

A new addition to the set of characters is Adrian, another spoilt, rich royal, who exudes power and charm, and who is very much interested in Rose. I have a feeling he will become a major character later on, and I can't wait to read more about him, he is the type of exciting bad boy, that you know is dangerous for you but you are just addicted to the thrill :-)

Besides Lissa, the others characters truly evolve in Frostbite, one of the major one of these character developments is that of Mia's, I'm curious to see how and on which side she will end up in the next books.

All in all Frostbite was another exciting ride, Richelle Mead took her characters and us readers for a few spins, the plot was more complex and I definitely want more!

I give this book 4 stars only because of Lissa and the ending of the Strigoi mystery... (not saying anything more so as not to spoil the story for those who haven't read Frostbite yet)

Plot: 7/10
Characters: 7.5/10
Ending: 7/10
Writing: 8/10
Cover: 7/10

Frostbite picks up right after Vampire Academy ends. This installment is all about the relationships and Rose's personal growth to maturity. Things 'hit the fan', so to speak, at a ski lodge over the Christmas Holiday after a terrible Strigoi attack.

Rose knows that choices have to be made, and unfortunately those choices may not make people happy, or even herself. One of those choices is Dimitri... Her relationship with Dimitri continues to heat up, and cool down, and heat up ~ let's just say it's a roller coaster, but a fun one to read! They both know that they cannot be together, and Rose watches the possibility of Dimitri's happiness with someone else. While Rose knows that being with Dimitri could one day put Lisa's life in danger, she can't help but feel that bit of human jealousy and desire.

Rose's relationship with Lisa is also changing... Lisa and Christian are finally public about being together, which means Rose has to "share" Lisa. Of course, being half-human, Rose is a bit jealous but at the same time is happy for Lisa. Rose refuses to confide in Lisa, believing that she is doing the right thing.

Rose's mother, Janine Hathaway also makes an appearance for the first time. We learn more about their troubled and rocky relationship. There is also Mason.... good old Mason. In an attempt to live a more "normal" life, as much as possible, Rose tries to "date" Mason. However, there is always something in the way.

And we cannot forget about Adrian... the bad boy that everyone wants to hate but loves. Adrian is in a class all by himself. Rose is at first annoyed by being his "little dhampir" but soon finds another side to Adrian... maybe even a softer side than the bad boy bravado he puts on.

Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series continues to surprise and impress. She has created a world, that while it includes vampires, you don't get the typical expectations. Every character is explored in the proper time and given enough space to grow. While Rose may be only half-human she continues to relatable. An amazing series!!

I am so glad I received the second book in the Vampire Academy series from my Secret Santa, Nikki. I actually read this book before the 3rd House of Night book, Chosen, but that one was next to me when I was ready to write a review. See how lazy I truly am?

I have heard high praise for this series and from what I have seen so far, it is well-deserved. The unique vampire society and different classes of vampires is such a good change. Although recently we have seen everything from sparkly "vegetarian" vampires, vampires with tribal tattoos, vampire transfiguration, and even `ol Mr. Darcy is now a vampire. In the Vampire Academy, book one of the series, we learn about the three different types of vampires in this fictional world. The Moroi are the ruling upper class. They require blood to survive and need to stay out of the sunlight. In general, these are "good" vampires. When a Moroi and a human reproduce, you end up with a Dhampir. A Dhampir can also result from a Dhampir/Moroi cross. The Dhampir are the guardians of the Moroi. They no not require blood to survive and do not need to avoid sunlight. They are, however, superior in strength and reflexes to both humans and Moroi. The last class of vampires in this world are the Strigoi. These are "true" vampires. Not only do they share the Moroi need for blood and nocturnal lifestyles, they are killers. They are Moroi who have gone evil or human/dhampir victims who have been turned. See! I told you it was original!

As far as heroines go, Rose Hathaway is one of the most honest, kick-ass ones I have seen. She is far from perfect and she knows it. Because she is a Dhampir, she is schooled in ways to protect her Moroi charge. This is not limited to multiple ways to kill and maim. The best part of this training is her extra lessons with Dimitri, who even has me swooning. He is her mentor, and 7 or so years her elder, but it never seems creepy or perverted. Heck, my husband is 6 years older than I am. Although we met when I was 23...I suppose it's a bit different. The two share a mutual attraction and try their hardest to suppress their feelings for each other because it might get complicated if they are both assigned to protect Lissa, Rose's best friend. As her guardians, they must be willing to not only sacrifice their own lives, but each other's to protect her. Kind of messed up, but this is their way of life.

This installment of the series was even better than the first. Rose is such a perfectly flawed character. She wants to be treated like a grown-up, and yet she still catches herself being childish with many things. There are some serious plot twists that force her to look a little closer at her choices, and I love the growth her character makes.

I try not to compare books when I write my reviews, but I can't help myself with this one. I think it's because I read two so similar books, so close together. When I sit and think about Chosen (House of Night #3) and what I didn't like about it, and then look at Frostbite (Vampire Academy #2), all of the problems are gone. Both books are about teenage vampires going to school, encountering boy trouble, menacing forces, and being a teenager on top of it. Where I was annoyed with the teenagers in Chosen, the characters in Frostbite were endearing. The same goes with the dialogue. Frostbite was just more believable for me, as much as a book about teenaged vampires can be. Also, the sexual nature of Chosen seemed to go over the top. Zoey was completely slutty, for lack of a better word. She just doesn't seem to be able to say no. Rose tries to forget her feelings about Dimitri by trying to move on to another guy, but it isn't like she and Dimitri have a relationship. While she isn't being fair to the person she moves on to, she seems to honestly think those feelings will come as time goes on. When she realizes they won't, she breaks it off.

I actually wanted to go to the bookstore right away and pick up the 3rd book in the Vampire Academy series. Since I have a full bookshelf (and then some) of books I have not read yet, I decided to hold off for a while and try to get some non-teenage vampire stories off of the shelf first. Right now I am on North of Beautiful and enjoying the change! I was excited enough to look it up on Goodreads, but I really wish I hadn't. Some (insert your own expletive here) decided to post a review that showed up right on top, in crappy half-english about the major MAJOR event that happens in Book #3. Annoyed is an understatement.

~Jenn

The Strigoi are on the attack and this time they are not acting alone, they have had the unexpected help of humans and now nothing is safe, not even in the light. Rose has to face the realization of growing up and the full force of responsibility that comes with being a guardian, not only that but she also has to face her mom. With Dimitri still lingering in the picture Rose's feelings stay torn.

Nice second installment and continuation with the story. I loved the introduction of Rose's mom and the implication that ultimately brings to rose. In this book rose grows up a lot and has many self-realizations that make her see her life more clearly. I would have wished for more of Lissa and Christian in this book but they are in their own little world for the time being so it was understandable.

The one thing that bugged me was the huge amount of repetition and overlap from the first book involving what happened and certain aspects of the story. I get with having a time span in between readings but it was kind of annoying right after finishing the first one.

Before I get into the review, I am in the process of moving so I listened to Vampire Academy and Frostbite on audio book while driving from my old house to my new one. The reason I bring this up is because in the first book the voice of Dimitri has this really thick Russian accent and then in the second one it is gone...weird...if anyone else listens to it you'll have to help explain that to me. I know in the book it mentions he has a slight accent but it definitely goes from one extreme to the other in audio book land which I found very peculiar.

Ok so onto the review we find ourselves back at St. Vladimir's academy with Rose and crew. It is winter break and a recent attack has made everyone a little concerned about the students traveling, therefore they are all sent to an elite ski resort with the thought that there is safety in numbers. But if that were the case this would be a pretty boring book wouldn't it? Yep, so of course there are problems that arise, one of them at the very start of this book. A beginning that put things in perspective for Rose very quickly and sets the tone for this book in my opinion. While the first book did have some dark moments in it, Frostbite has a shadow cast down upon the entire story with the emphasis being on Rose's life and those who surround her. I feel the best comparison to what I am talking about is Harry Potter, I know you are sitting there saying "What!?!" but hear me out. Did you notice that with every Harry Potter book that came out the story got a little darker? That is what I feel like here, as Rose starts to get older, her job becomes a little tougher. Darkness is closing in on her world a little at a time and that seeps into the tone of the book. Rose is definitely not an average 17 year old girl and that becomes very apparent as this story unfolds.

However, with dark there is also light. In this book the "light" in my opinion was found in Lissa and her budding relationship with Christian. They are so happy and in love you cannot help but smile while reading about them. Lissa is having a good year and while her highs are great to read about my heart still goes out to Rose because her life might never be like that. She will always put her emotions and wants second to Lissa because it is her job and she feels a responsibility to do so. We do get a few glimpses into the Rose/Dimitri world, but not as much as I would have liked. They are both trying desperately to keep their emotions for each other in check and are both having a very difficult time doing so. And while we are on this talk of romance, there is a new character introduced, Adrian, he comes in toward the end of the novel but I have a funny feeling he is going to cause some problems in upcoming books. Time will tell for that I guess...

The end of this book was very emotional for me and my heart broke for Rose for multiple reasons, sometimes I forget that she is only 17 because she is forced to mature so quickly. She handles this responsibility like any teenager would, she makes mistakes! She acts before thinking, and is crazy stubborn, but she does learn her lessons and works very hard to better herself both physically and intellectually. That is why I love her, she is a real character. She is not perfect and you can relate to her. To sum up, I really liked this book and I am enjoying this series. If you have not picked it up you should.

Language Love:

"Icicles hung from the eaves, and the tinted windows reveled no secrets."

I like how darkness is related to the secrecy of the house in this description.

A whole new set of troubles comes Rose's way in this exciting continuation of the Vampire Academy series. A gruesome Strigoi attack happens on the day Rose was supposed to take her guardian test. A whole Moroi family and their guardians are killed, but what's more terrifying is that it seems they have humans helping them. The Moroi royals have only one solution, to run and hide in their luxury ski lodge.

All the while Rose is trying to forget what she feels for Dimitri, her hot Russian mentor, but jealousy makes it hard to keep her true feelings in check. So, she does what any girl would do, and tries to forget him by hitching up with another guy. But when another massacre occurs, even Rose has to put aside her personal problems to go and save her friends who have gone hunting for Strigoi to prove they can.

All through the book there's tension: between Rose and her mentor, between Rose and her best friend, between Rose and a new mysterious character. Just everywhere and I loved that. It kept me turning the pages. I totally agree that the Moroi shouldn't stand behind their guardians; they should take a stand beside them and fight. Hopefully this will be explore further in the following books. Also, it's been a while since a book has made me seriously tear up, but this one managed it!

I enjoyed this follow up in the Vampire Academy series. Once again we return to the world of prep school vampires. Vampirism is passed on genetically: Moroi are privileged, vampiric magic-wielders. Dhampirs are half-human, half-vampire, possessed of unusual strength. They can only bear children by Moroi, and their offspring will always be dhampir. Most male dhampirs swear fealty to a particular Morai and protect them as bodyguards. Many female dhampirs take on work as "blood whores" trading sexual services, and donating blood to Moroi for the high that it gives them. Dhampirs are treated by their Moroi counterparts as trusted servants as best, and second class citizens at worst. Finally, the Strigoi are former Moroi who have gone to the dark side. They are immortal, they enjoy killing humans, harassing Moroi, and are recognizable by their pale skin and red-rimmed eyes.

In this book, dangerous attacks by an unusually well-organized group of Strigoi have the Moroi in a panic. The students decide to hole up in a glamorous ski resort over winter break. Rose must sort through her feelings for her mentor Dimitri, and safe good-boy Mason. Not to mention her unresolved feelings towards her mother, a ruthlessly efficient bodyguard who abandoned Rose to further her own career. Lissa and her boyfriend Christian are getting more serious, much to Rose's dismay. Rose's one-way psychic link leads to some awkward moments when she can see into her friend's thoughts.

The first chapter is exposition-city, designed to help readers who've skipped the first in the series. The theme of female-dhampir-as-sluts is briefly touched upon, but not fully explored. A few of the Moroi decide they'd like to learn how to use their elemental magicks offensively ('bout darn time!) What I find hugely curious is the Uncle-Tomishness of most of the dhampir. They fawn over the Moroi in the most obsequious manner! I'd love to see a full-out dhampir rebellion. Just because they're the genetic equivalent of mules is no reason why they have to settle for second best at every turn. Those snobby Moroi deserve to be knocked off their high horses.

At the end of the book, Mason dies, believing to the last that Rose loves him. Dimitri turns down an intriguing offer of guardianship with an unconventional Moroi woman (Christian's aunt Tasha) I think it would have been so interesting if he had taken the offer. But then again, I'm a sucker for hard choices and unrequited love stories.

When I first read the first three books of the Vampire Academy series approximately two and a half years ago I did not feel book withdrawals. Instead I experienced a disappointing anxiety that I would have to wait for the fourth book to find out what happens to Rose and Dmitri. When the fourth book came out, I had the pleasure of experiencing my first author event signing when Richelle Mead had a book tour in California and Books, Inc. in Palo Alto was one of her stops. It was incredible! I purchased two books for her to sign and I brought my previous three which she also gladly autographed! I could have succumb to my eagerness to read the fourth book, but I did not want the same anxious feeling to come back. I decided to wait for the fifth and final books to come out, and only then will I come back to the world of St. Vladimir's.

Unfortunately it did take a couple of years. The friends I have introduced this series to were ahead of me, and bless them for not mentioning their impressions or stating any spoilers. On my part, it also took a lot of control to avoid Richelle Mead's website in case I might get a hint of what happens next. Even the books I preordered would immediately find its way in the corner shelf of my library where I kept my other favorite Young Adult novels. I hesitated to even glance at the covers or read the synopsis. But finally at the end of the year 2010, the sixth and final book of the Vampire Academy series was released on December 7.

Because of the lapse in time, it was only fitting to begin the story again. I had to reacquaint myself with the characters, the surroundings, the plot, and build the momentum. Doing this did not disappoint.

This only the second book but I can already see how exciting the next books will be. Richelle Mead is a goddess. I am not even exaggerating. I have no complaints, the story is perfect. I totally got sucked in. I forgot that I love Eric Northman and Sookie Stackhouse. That is huge because Southern Vamps, is the one series that I cannot stop recommending to people. There's something about the world of the Moroi, and Dhampirs figthing the blood thirsty Strigoi that fascinates me at no end, their interaction is somehow realistic. Love triangles, cliff hangers, mystery, politics, new intriguing and interesting characters, sexual tension, and drama, drama, drama. I had a hard time writing this review. I did three revisions. The problem was, I can't seem to shut up, I don't want to give away anything major. I think I finally got myself satisfied with this one, so here goes.

Book 1 ends with Victor and Natalie as the perpetrator. Book 2 posed so many complexity in Rose's life. First Dimitri accompanied her on a drove 5 hours for Rose's Qualifier's exam only to find out the guy that would be testing her was dead - massacred, together with his Moroi charge and family. There they found disturbing evidence that humans are possibly involve, she found a silver stake at the ground that clearly cut off the wards.
Second, her mother showed up and gave her a black eye when they were on sparring practice.
Third, her feelings towards Dimitri is still intact and no matter what distractions and mental pep talk she gives herself, she keep coming back to where she started.
Fourth, Lord Adrian - a new character that got some interesting and very suspicious powers.
Fifth, her non-existent feelings for Mason.
Sixth, the bond that she shared with Lissa.
But those are actually petty issues compared on what happened at the end. Another attacked three states away, made a former enemy now their ally. A tragedy caused by wrong judgement resulted in a tragedy that took a life of one of the few important people in her life. She did get her first two Molnija tattoo for decapitating two Strogi but it wasn't as glamorous and she did not feel as proud as she imagined it to be.

That last part suck but it was brilliant. I got carried away and felt Rose's pain. Something big is coming up. Rose seems to be getting moody and her personality is becoming darker. What big surprises will I get in reading book 3? Only way to find out...

Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series continues to suck me in -- no pun intended. In Frostbite, Rose and Lissa are getting back to normal after the events at the end of the first book. Rose is still conflicted by her feelings for her mentor, Dimitri and passing time with Mason, her friend and fellow dhampir -- whose feelings run far deeper than her own. At the same time, Dimitri seems to be starting a relationship with someone else -- a much older royal Moroi vampire -- and Rose's best friend Lissa and her boyfriend Christian are more in love than ever before.

All of these relationship issues take a backseat, however, when the threat of Strigoi -- evil, bloodthirsty vampires that prey on the gentle Moroi vampires -- comes frighteningly close to home. To protect the students from the threat of attack, Dimitri and the other guardians plan to relocate the school to a remote ski resort for an impromptu holiday trip.

As Dimitri and Rose's new relationships begin to develop, however, they're repeatedly brought together and reminded of their attraction for one another. Despite the attention of Mason and Adrian, an older, wealthy Moroi playboy that also has his eye on Rose, she can't seem to come to terms with her feelings for Dimitri. In fact, she realizes that her love for him might be the only thing that could prevent her from doing her duty and putting Lissa first in every situation -- as a guardian should.

But when Rose -- along with Lissa's boyfriend Christian, Mason and other students from school -- finds herself held hostage by ancient and vicious Moroi, Rose must rely on her training and her resolve to get them out alive.

This second book of the Vampire Academy series surpassed my hopes. It was even better than the first installment, and left me absolutely frantic to get my hands on the next book. Mead really seems to allow her characters growth -- even when it's painful -- and the story benefits from even these harsh learning experiences. The conflict isn't random for the sake of an exciting plot, and always is driven by the character's experience. I really appreciate her efforts to write a fantastic novel in a surreal setting without sacrificing the very "real" characters that keep the action moving.

And it goes without saying that I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of the series.

If you're wanting to read "Frostbite," then you've probably already read the first book in the series, "Vampire Academy." However, if this is the first Vampire Academy books you've ever read, it won't be too hard to follow along. The prologue pretty much explains what's going on and summarizes the most important points from book 1.

The same characters are in "Frostbite": Rose, Lissa, Christian, Dimitri, Mason, and Mia, along with a few new characters who add a LOT of interest: Janine (Rose's mom who is a well-known guardian), Adrian (a Moroi royal who flirts shamelessly with Rose and behaves like the consummate "bad boy"), and Tasha (a Moroi who wants Dimitri to be her guardian-slash-lover).

Richelle Mead handles her characters well in "Frostbite." They are allowed to grow and change, keeping the story interesting as it constantly evolves. Lissa is now taking medicine to control her magic, and she begins to take on a leadership role among the royals. Rose, while still acting much like a typical 17-year-old in the romance department, develops a maturity and better sense of responsibility regarding her relationship with Dimitri and her position as a future guardian. The result is that these characters are much more likable than before.

This is an action-packed sequel. The Strigoi, working in groups with humans, have begun a war to eradicate the royal families, killing anyone else (dhampirs and non-royals alike) who stand in their way. As panic runs rampant through the Moroi community, a group of Academy students finds themselves caught in the middle. This was an excellent sequel, and I can't wait to read the third book!

In Frostbite (Vampire Academy, Book 2), the follow-up to Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy, Book 1), Rose and Lissa continue at St. Vlad's Academy. While on a training trip, Dimitri and Rose discover that the Strigoi have become a threat to all Moroi, including those at the Academy. To protect them, legions of guardians show up, including Rose's long-absent mother. For the holidays, everyone descends upon an elite Moroi ski resort, where the powerful and opinionated argue about the future of the Moroi race and how best to protect them. While there, Rose must contend with the attention of a royal named Adrian, her unreturned affection for Dimitri, her friend Mason's growing interest, and the constant threat of a Strigoi attack.

Like the first book, FROSTBITE has a fast-paced plot filled with action. The book is written in an easily readable style, and the typos/errors of the first book are gone. Rose exhibits some character growth, and the romantic connection between Lissa and Christian is described well. This installment also includes the introduction of many interesting characters who add to the story, including Adrian, Tasha, and Rose's mother. The climax displays the true horror of the Strigoi and the threat they pose to all, both physically and emotionally, and it leaves the reader tensely turning pages to see what will happen next. Of the four books so far in the series, this one is the most engaging.

Even with these strengths, there were notable weaknesses. There wasn't much growth for Lissa's character, and there was no development in the relationship between Rose and Lissa. Despite Mead's ability to make Lissa and Christian's relationship sizzle and feel real, the connection between Dimitri and Rose still doesn't make sense; Dimitri's pull toward Rose remains unexplained. More men continue to pursue Rose sexually, so much that it becomes cliché. As for the writing, the story opens with a prologue that re-caps the events and mythology of the first book in a plodding manner. References to specific clothing designers and similar throughout will also date the book quickly.

Though I had a lot of concerns with the novel, it was still very entertaining, fast-paced, and easy to read. Of the four Vampire Academy books so far, this one has the strongest plot and the greatest amount of character development for Rose. I hope Mead expands this character development to Lissa and others in the books to come and continues to work on the Rose-Dimitri dynamic.

So when I first read Vampire Academy I was not sure if I would like or really hate it. Boy was I wrong....I loved it!!!! I love the story about Rose and Lisa and their bond together. Rose meeting Dimitri, and you automatically needing to know if they get together or not. And many other characters that Rose meets while she is at St. Vladimir's.

This book is book 2 in the series and many things are happening to Rose this year. All she wants to do is keep her grades up and graduate so she can become Lissa's guardian. She has many challenges during this year including whether or not to date Dimitri....She and the class are approaching Christmas break and all the school wants is to be able to enjoy their vacation. And that may not happen!

Rose is a very strong willed girl and she knows what she wants and what she needs to be come a guardian. She knows there are many things that are in her way with both becoming a guardian and finding her true love.

This book was amazing! You really feel for the Rose and all of her issues in her family. You know that it is more than just beef with her mom. You know that there is something happening in her family, but you just don't know what.

I am in love with this series and I'm wishing I bought them all at once. The second installment in the Vampire Academy series starts off with a bang and ends with a bigger one, it was more emotional not only because you become more invested in the characters but also because so much happens. There is also the introduction of a new character and I'm hoping he sticks around. He fits my love of the mysterious bad boy to a tee so he immediately found a place close to my heart. I found the conflict in this book was better developed and more intriguing than in Vampire Academy. The pace wasn't quite as steady as it was in Vampire Academy, it had a bit of lag time in the middle but Mead's writing still keeps your attention in the slower moments.
Everyone loves Dimitri and Rose, I do too, but I really enjoy the relationship between Rose and her best friend Lissa's boyfriend Christian. There is some jealousy and animosity between the two because they have to share Lissa's attention, but the give and take of insults and sarcasm is fun to read. I found myself looking forward to their scenes almost as much as Rose and Dimitri's. The funny thing is if it wasn't for Lissa I bet they would be the best of friends.
Frostbite was an wicked follow up to an awesome start, Vampire Academy is working it's way to the top of my most loved series list. 5 out of 5.

**Caution: this review my contain spoilers as it is the second book in a series. Proceed at your own risk**

I was never more happy to own an eReader as I was after finishing up Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead. I finished that book during Dewey's 24 Hour Read-a-Thon and immediately wanted to move into the next book in the series. As the stores were closed that wasn't a possibility but thanks to the power of the internet I was able to download a copy on to Anne the eReader. Praise be for the digital age!

Frostbite picks up shortly after Vampire Academy ends this time though the story takes us from Montana to a ski lodge in Idaho. Rose again takes the narration of the story and I think that it was a good choice. Rose is such a strong character she really brings the world that Mead has built to life. Lissa, the maori princess who Rose guards, often comes across as a bit of milkmaid and I don't think she'd be able to carry the story. Rose is flawed and unapologetic. If she believes in something she'll do what ever it takes to do what she thinks needs to be done. This is both a strength and a weakness of hers that I cherish. The tension between her and Dimitri, her teacher, is palpable and grows stronger with each turn of the page.

Mead is a gifted story teller and her world springs up around you as you read. I was immersed in this story from the first page. There was mystery, adventure and romance. I cheered for Rose during her successes and yelled at her when I saw she was making a bad choice. I've said it before but I'll say it again. I love Rose for her strengths and her flaws. She is so very real and I completely captivated by her story. I am so glad that I picked up this story and can't wait to see where the series takes us next.

As originally posted on my blog: Ticket to Anywhere

I love this series. Rose is a badass and I find myself really liking all the characters this book the action is better and so is the romance. Spoilers though

I am a little mad they killed mason though he was like one of my favorites. And I know that dimitri and her are ideally gonna end up together but I would a loved a love triangle between these 3 for just a little longer. Also mason was honest , likeable anf a true friend so it was very sad.

I really enjoyed this 2nd book in the Vampire Acadamey Series! I flew through this book! The characters were already established and you basically just get to know them even better in this book!

This book picks up where the first one left off. Rose and Dimitri are still not really talking about what happened between them, Christian and Lissa are dating now and Mia still is out to get Rose and Lissa. Mead introduces two new characters in this book...Christian's sister Tasha and Adrian who is a rich royal Moroi and he is after Rose's attention. I thought both characters brought a lot to the book. Tasha begins showing interest in Dimitri and he returns her interest which makes Rose furious with them. Adrian is a sort of bad boy, but I really enjoyed his character. I found myself wanting to see more scenes with him and Rose instead of Rose and Dimitri. I can see that this is headed toward a love triangle and it should be very interesting to see how it pans out. Also, Mead introduces Rose's mom in this book. Rose and her mom don't get along very well and I have to say I enjoyed their interaction together!

A lot of events happen toward the end of the book that change things dramatically! I loved the ending and I can't wait to see what happens next between Rose, Dimitri and Adrian! I have to say I am still not a fan of Lissa! She is my least favorite character right now. I don't know what it is about her, but she just gets on my nerves and for some reason I don't trust her!

This was a great book and I will be reading the next one very soon!

Frostbite is the second book in the amazing Vampire Academy series written by Richelle Mead. The first book was great but the second one is even better. Rose is 6 months away from her graduation; she'll be a full fledged guardian. She has to meet a very well known guardian for an evaluation, and since he can't leave the moroi he is protecting, Rose and Dimitri heads out to meet him. Only what they found wasn't what they expected. The entiere royal family and their guardians have all been slaughtered, evidences points in the direction of an alliance between strogois and humans. School is now on a high alert and many guardians comes in to protect the young ones, including Rose's mother. All school is brought on a mandatory ski trip and Rose meets Adrian who's disliked by all her friends due to his reputation. He isn't the one who will get them in trouble tho. Everything goes wrong when 3 students leave the school wanting to take out a group of strogois by themselves and of course Rose can't let that happen. She's running after them with Christian and finds more then she wished for.

I am totally in love with Rose personality, her dilemma between Dimitri and Mason, her hard time dealing with her mother, her sense of honor and how she does everything to protect the ones she loves. She isn't perfect, she got her flaws and that's what makes her so interesting. You grow with her as the series develops. It is definitely my favorite series! Even tho it's young adult rated, I promise you adult will find their share of excitement in this novel. I was very glad I already had the third book of the series in my possession, waiting for the release would have been torture!

I think I liked this second one better than the first! The story continues pretty much right where we left off with Rose and Lissa. Rose is still trying to catch up in her guardian training with Dimitri (made only slightly awkward by the events that happened at the end of the last book) and Lissa is working with a teacher specially to help her train and find out what the magic of Spirit will mean for her.

The real action starts when Rose and Dimitri take a little drive (5 hours) so that Rose can take her Qualifier exam as a guardian. When they arrive at the house where the legendary guardian lives they find that the entire Moroi royal family that lived there as well as their guardians have been murdered by the Strigoi and that humans possibly had a hand in helping them take down the magical wards guarding the house.

All the sudden things are different in the vampire world - parents of students come to the Academy for Christmas and with it comes their guardians as well (including Rose's mother, the legendary Janine Hathaway). The entire school is taken to spend the Christmas holiday at a huge ski resort in Idaho so that they can pool their guardians for protection. Lissa is spending more and more time with her boyfriend Christian and Rose is having a difficult time of thinking about anybody but Dimitri (even though he might be more into Christian's aunt Tasha than Rose) so Rose has been trying to move past those feelings by spending more time with her friend Mason.

Nothing is ever easy for Rose but she does learn and grow a great deal more in this book than in the last. She's reckless and headstrong but has her friend's best interests at heart and she's a really terrific character.

OK, I must admit it--I found this book frustrating. BUT... The frustrating aspects did serve a point, and I'm trying to decide if that makes it even more frustrating. :-) To clarify: Richelle is amazingly immature at times and I found myself mentally screaming at her for doing and saying some of the stupid things she did. But as I've already said, that made sense, given the kind of person she's supposed to be--obviously Mead did a great job writing her. Actually, Mead does a great job writing all of the characters, and I was glad to see some new ones introduced in Frostbite: namely, Janine Hathaway and Adrian Ivashkov. It is very interesting (and sometimes frustrating) to see Rose's relationship with her mother develop. And Adrian proves to be an interesting addition to the cast, as well, given that he's another person whose specialty is the spirit, and not one of the usual earthly elements...

A good portion of the book is devoted to relationships--Rose's in particular (with Mason, her mother, Dmitri), but also the growing relationship between Lissa and Christian. These relationships actually made for an interesting read a lot of the time, but I also found myself thinking, will you get to the point already? What is supposed to be going on in this book? Finally, as I reached the last third of the story, things started falling into place and really picking up speed. As I sit here and type this, I know I enjoyed the book and have gained even more appreciation for the frustration Read caused in me with Frostbite. Obviously, if I can get that invested in a story that has a tendency to drive me crazy, it must be pretty good. And in the end, much of it really was wrapped up and tied up snugly... leaving just enough to leave you dying to know what was going to happen next, but satisfied that at least some things were resolved.

In Frostbite Lissa and Rose's friendship remains strong but is suffering a bit - it's hard to be in love with someone you can't have and are unable to talk about it while your best friend is happily in love.

Rose and Dimitri are trying to fight their desire for each other. Yet unlike Rose Dimitri is better able to hide his feelings. This makes for some intense moments between the two.

Apart from the issues with friendships and forbidden love, a massacre has broken out and it sends the students, royals and guardians fleeing to a ski lodge for their own protection.

Here we meet a new face...Adrian. He's a dangerous royal playboy who has his eyes on our Rose. This makes for an interesting love triangle.

For me this book is better than the first. The characters are more fleshed out and the storyline and action more intense.

Frostbite has tons of action that keeps the reader wondering what is going to come next. This book will answer questions from book one, yet leave you with new ones.

It's the holiday season at St. Vladimir's Academy, an elite school for Moroi and Dhampir. But for Dhampir Rose Hathaway, the approach of Christmas hasn't been very restful. Her mentor and secret crush Dimitri has been preparing her for a test with another widely respected guardian. But instead of meeting him, they stumble across the aftermath of a brutal Strigoi attack. The attack strikes fear in the Moroi community, and instead of splitting up for the holidays, all Moroi arrange to meet at secluded and high class ski resort--including Rose's formidable and detached mother. Sparks will fly as the two clash, and tension mounts as the threat of the Strigoi creeps closer and closer.

Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series takes a darker turn in Frostbite as Rose matures and is exposed to more and more danger, and finds herself taking higher risks. Though there is less interaction between Rose and Lissa, it's believable as Lissa is preoccupied with a new boyfriend, Christian. Readers learn more about the Moroi and their magic in Frostbite as Christian begins campaigning for lessons in self defense by using his magic, adding the twist of political tensions between the Moroi.

The addition of a lecherous and preying older Moroi and a beautiful and scarred Moroi woman that gives Rose some competition for Dimitri's heart add a nice balance to the novel, and enable Rose to cause more chaos. But the ultimate ordeal at the end of the book will test Rose to her limits and give her a dose the responsibilities that will be required of her once she graduates...can she prove herself worthy to become her best friend's guardian?

Finally I got it! It took me so so so soooo long (over 8 months) but I finally received it. It's not surprising that I am so excited about this graphic novel because finally we could see ADRIAN IVASHKOV in it! Adrian Bubble

I love graphic novels and this one was no exception. There are some graphic novels that are just crap but I really love the Vampire Academy ones. The art is amazing and also rereading the story in great. The one thing I love about graphic novels is how you can read it in less than a day and it's like rereading the book, if you're in need of a little fix.

There's only one minor point. Somehow I liked this one better than the first one. I'm not sure why but it's how I feel. Hence the 4 stars instead of 5.
Other than that it was a pretty amazing graphic novel.
Adrian looked amazing, just like how I would picture him. And as always Dimitri looked very hot! ^_^

Every Vampire Academy fan should read these graphic novels. You won't be disappointed!

Oh the feels. I forgot how sad this one is. It's been forever since I read it last. But the first time since I've read the entire series in full and Bloodlines series too. It was fun getting that extra perspective now that I know how it ends. We meet Adrian (love him!), and Tasha. I'm loveing rereading these.

Taking place not too long after the first book ends, Frostbite is just as addictive, if not more so than the first. Your favorite dhampir, Rose is back along with a whole batch of new problems to deal with. This time, the setting is a luxury ski resort during school break. Strigoi, or the immortal, evil vampires, have been attacking other Royal Vampire clans and everyone is in a panic. So, The Vampire Academy sends all the students to the resort for additional safety.

There, we get mystery, lust, intrigue, some romance, and pretty much anything else you can imagine. It is even better than the first book, in regards to plot and even writing.

I must say, normally, a character like Rose would never appeal to me-she is, after all, supposedly drop-dead gorgeous, with the perfect figure, a tough attitude and strength and bravery, etc, etc...but she didn't annoy me like I thought she would. She has a softer side, one that pines for someone she knows she can never have, one who feels guilt and sadness when certain bad things happen to people she cares for. I truly didn't expect that and I'm glad I continued on with the series.

I don't want to go into to much detail because it really is more fun to read it and discover it for yourself, but I will say that Frostbite is a wonderful treat, fresh and exhilerating and a book that you just can't put down until you get to the last page-and then crave it some more.

Ok, so this second installment was actually way better than I heard it to be. I was afraid that it was going to be slow and disappointing but I loved it like the first book. It did have one bad flaw in the love department that is why I gave it 4 stars. I was disappointed on how Rose dealt with the Dimitri and Mason situation. Rose was made to be like a cry baby when it came to dealing on supposedly losing Dimitri for good. And when it came to Mason she just acted like a Royal Moroi brat. I did not like that at all.

I did love everything else, there was action, romance, death and more Strigoi. In this book you read about Christian's parents and the Strigoi characters come out to play. There is dangerous situation that Rose, Lissa, Mason, Christian go through and the magic of each Moroi start to show.

I am definitely continuing the series and I know it just going to get better. I'm pulling for Rose and Dimitri to be together soon ;D

The Good: Frostbite is one of the rare instances where I loved second book in a series even more than the first. The focus was split equally between action, drama and romance. Danger surrounds the royal families, so the kids at St. Vladimir's hide out at a fancy ski resort. As they cut loose from their training responsibilities, we get to see Rose and some of the others with a little more freedom to act their ages. And that means a lot of fun and teen angst. The tension between Rose and Dmitri is awesome and the addition of Adrian is fantastic. The book is not without its emotional pain and loss, however. Some surprising things take place in Frostbite, which may very well have a long term impact on some of the characters.

The Bad: Nothing. Frostbite was perfect.

rostbite is the second book in the Vampire Academy series. It begins with Rose and Demitri going to visit a legendary guardian Arthur Schoenberg to start her qualifying exams. Upon arrival, Rose and Demitri find the home of the royals that Arthur protects to have been broken into and everyone inside, including the guardians, murdered by an organized band of Strigoi. This makes the Moroi nervous and with the holidays around the corner they decide to transport the entire Academy and their families to a ski resort. Rose's mom even decides to join.

Frostbite was so much better to me than Vampire Academy. Lissa and Christian's relationship continues to develop and as a consequence Lissa has less time for Rose who starts to feel neglected.

Rose is very wishy-washy in this book. I feel she is at a turning point in her life. Will she continue to act like a child and have zero impulse control or will she grow up and start to make decisions like an adult?

If you have read Vampire Academy and are undecided about reading Frostbite read it. Vampire Academy laid the ground work for a great second installment and possible for a great series.

Thank god for these wonderful guilty pleasure books. Sure they may not have all that much substance or challenge me mentally but boy am I able to gobble them up. It's got all of the ingredients a good guilty pleasure needs; romance, fighting, hot guys, mystery, more hot guys, and vampires. What more could someone want? Yes, Richelle Mead has done it again with the second book in the Vampire Academy series. She has incorporated all the thrills of the vampire world into a plot that any teen will enjoy. There is never a dull moment in the book; everything keeps going full speed ahead so that you never know what to expect next. And that's exactly what makes it so good. Just after you think you've figured out what's going to happen next, something new gets thrown in your face and you're knocked off of your feet, scrambling to find out all of the details of the new twist. And the author writes it all so that none of it seems unrealistic. You are led to believe that all of the things in the book could actually happen just because of the flowing writing style and the characters that you can completely relate with. It's so cool to be able to read about a girl, who could quite possibly be your best friend, as she works through obstacle after obstacle with sass, spunk, attitude, and humility. So all in all, I would highly recommend the Vampire Academy series as a completely thrilling, delicious, and suspenseful guilty pleasure that will surpass all of your expectations. :D
(reposted from [...]

What can I say, VA is one of my favorite urban fantasy series, and Frostbite is just flipping amazing.
The romance, the suspenseful plot line, that snarky tone Rose talks in. How can you NOT fall in love?
Mead creates a very realistic fantasy world that just might possibly exist alongside ours. Her characters have a depth that most other fantasy books just do not. I've fallen in love with Rose and her adventures and I'm pretty sure you will too.
Frostbite is a GREAT second book. Mead is able to develop the world of VA while still maintaining the great plots that drive the book. And what amazes me every time I re-read this book is how well she introduces all the new characters. Every one with a point, a personality, and enough time to really connect with the read. AMAZING
Granted, this has some adult concepts, things like sex and violence, so it is not for a younger crowd. I'd say for anyone older than 15, this is a must read.

I loved this book. I thought the first one was great and was glad the second did not disappoint. I'm still hoping that Rose and Dmitri can find a way to be together. Christian is growing on me and we even see a softer side of Mia. I'm debating but I might actually be enjoying this series more so than the Twilight series. It might be because I don't have the irritant of Jacob Black's character. He just bothered me in the Twilight books. We start to see a little bit more of Dmitri's background and see him acting a little more human. I thought the addition of the royal, Adrian, was an interesting twist and am anxious to see where they take things.

Stop here if you don't want any spoilers.

I'm glad Rose and her mom sort of smoothed things out between the two of them and that Dmitri decided to stay at the academy even if he cannot be with Rose. It sucked that Mason was killed but I'm glad to see that Mia might actually see some happiness or at least not so much bitterness. It looks to me like Rose is somehow absorbing Lissa's dark side so it will be interesting to see what happens with that in the next book. I love this series so far and was torn when I heard there was a fourth book. I want to know what happens but I know I will also be bummed once I'm done with the series.

Characters: 4 - Since it is a part of a series the characters do get to grow. Rose's mother gets introduced and their relationship gets looked into and changes through the book.

Writing: 4 - The writing was great. Again it is told in Rose's POV. In ch.22 I started crying. I don't want to be spoiler so I will just say that the build up to it was very good that you felt what Rose was feeling. So, when it happened I couldn't help but cry.

Plot: 4 - This book was more of furthering and the changes in relationships. At times I thought it was a little slow. I still enjoyed it with seeing new people coming into the mix and how it changes people and makes them grow.

Ending: 4 - The ending was great. It had a somewhat sadness feel in the air because of what had happened while there is, I guess you would call it proud moment for Rose. Rose learns and I think starts to accept that she is more like her mom than she thought or knew.

Cover: 4 - I like this cover. The light blue and mix of a little snow on the gate go really well with the title. So, if you just looked at the cover before reading the back you know that snow is involved somehow.

After reading Vampire Academy and watching the movie, I was hooked on this series. I couldn’t wait for the box set to arrive so I could barrel through the rest of the books. In the short time I’ve been with the series, I have already found myself hooked. However, when I opened up the second book and started reading, I was slightly disappointed.

The Prologue needs to be cut from the book.

It reads like a full summary of the first book, not giving any new situation and not setting up the second book. Yes, sometimes it’s nice to get a recap, but as Mead interweaves summary and tidbits from the first book throughout this one, the Prologue just felt redundant. If readers start the book at the first chapter and bypass the Prologue completely, they wouldn’t miss anything and would probably be more excited for the rest of the story.

For more of my review, check out my website, [...]

OMG---really if that was all I could get away with putting; I would. This books was so good! This book had me going through so many emotions as i read it. First you have Rose. poor Rose. Who is madly in love with Dimitri. And Dimitri who, is TRYING to do the "right" thing... and in the process is being a major butt head. He loves her. You can tell. Then the explanation to the Badica attack; that was horrible. The torture they endured.
Then you have these 3 idiots, :( who run off trying to off the strigoi. What the heck. In result of the Mason dies. DIES.. I shed a tear or 2 in that chapter. OK, I CRIED! then you have Rose, and that moment she bonded with her mom. Something she has always wanted! They had there moment! Then, MY FAV PART, the LAST chapter...... "Roza" I can hear Dimitri saying that. Finally, Finally.. they are together! :)
I can't wait to read the rest of these books. I am hooked!

OH, yeah and Adrian, he was freaking me out. Cool to find out that he wasn't a psychopath, and was just curious about Lissa's "spirit" powers! :)

After seeing the trailer for the movie I decided to give these books a try. I read the first one ad it was okay. After bit of a break I went back to read frostbite. I was pleasantly surprised. Not needing to set up the world this book gets right into the story. At St. Vladimirs pure vampires called Moroi and the half human half vampire dhampir attend school. The dhampir learn to be guardians so they can one day protect their Moroi classmates. Strigori attacks force a gathering for the holiday season. Rose is confronted with her uneasy relationship with her mother and her feeling for her trainer and mentor Dimitri. Mead continues to build her world and these characters in this second installment that was a less twisty and more engaging than the first.

So, I can understand that the second book in the Vampire Academy series might not be everyone’s cup of tea–there’s other woman/other man drama on both sides of the pond for Rose and Dimitri.

Personally, though, angst is my favourite thing in the world and seeing Rose pine after Dimitri was my absolute favourite part of the book.

And, oh, Dimitri, you’re just as sexy as ever.

One of the things I really loved about this book was Dimitri’s willingness to straight up tell Rose when she was being immature. Sometimes she annoyed me, but the fact Dimitri always called her out on it and put her in her place stopped it really being an issue for me. There was never affirmation, or allowing her immature behaviour to go unchecked. In the end, Dimitri made her grow up, and some of my favourite scenes came out of that. I won’t specify too much, due to spoilers, but that scene after the royal ball really just kills me inside, in the best way possible.

Mead’s writing has always been one of my favourites–it’s both easy-reading and intense. Whenever Rose and Dimitri are close you can feel the tension, and I really commend her for that.

The plot continues to be strong in the second book, and the ending was perfect, in my opinion. Mead keeps things as realistic as a PNR book can be, and I never feel like people are acting outside their character limits. I’ve read this book so many times, and it never fails to entertain me.

Second shout-out to Christian, for continuing to be sexy and bad-ass.

The woman has done it again! Another great novel. I have yet to meet a book by this author that I haven't fallen in love with. Mead, in her second Vampire Academy book, has made this book even better than the first, which I thought was impossible. Now I know nothing is impossible for this author.

The character development is really good. Rose has to deal with Lissa's attention being else where. Including Dimitri? Rose shows real character getting past some of that adolescent angst.

Humor even better than last time.

The reality of what Rose does, is training to be finally really starts to sink in. The prices that she has to pay to gain the ability to kill monsters. And the price they all must pay in the end.

Other characters are introduced in this book. And all of them are just too good not to meet in this book. And that's all I'll say so that the story won't be ruined. (At least not by me!)

**** If you've read the first book, trust me you don't want to miss then. If you haven't read any of these books, start. If you love vampires, great action, and good mysteries. This is better then it gets!!! (Here's the first book, Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy, Book 1).)

One of my all time favorite series. I have honestly probably reread this entire series at a minimum of 20 times. I recommend this series to any reader especially if you love vampires . I didnt put anything really in the book on this review as I had spoilers but you will love the main characters and their love lives. I was truly invested the entire series through.

Like many, I loved the Twilight series and gave this series a try after the store suggested that I might like it since I liked Twilight. Good call the store! I couldn't put this book down and then when I finished it, immediately called local bookstores to track down the next books in the series.

I really loved the characters as well as the storyline. Rose the main character is strong and sassy. The story is very creative and pulls you in. One word of warning, book three has a major cliffhanger. I was crying seriously at the end and couldn't sleep the night after I finished reading it thinking about the story. I'm currently on pins and needles waiting for book 4. I'd suggest waiting to read book 3 until Aug so book 4 will be available.

By the way, I'm in my thirties but young at heart. :) Don't need to be in your teens to like this book.

P.S. Would love, love, love to see a movie series with this storyline. They'd be awesome hits! Something for everyone...romance for the gals, action/fighting for the guys, cool special effects, good vs. evil, etc. I can just imagine it!

My friend loaned me this series and I'm in love with it! I feel that it brings a new age in the teen science fiction and horror genre. While many of us adults enjoy the books too. It's so refreshing to have a story line that is not all love based with little else going on. I'm loving the guardian's and moroi. The first book went a little slower but this one is faster paced. You want to keep reading to see what is next. So if you have not grab book one and have book two handy because you will want to start it as soon as you finish book one. Also have three ready to.go. I feel that I can see myself there at St Vladimirs Academy surrounded by the wilderness and experiencing the every day live at the Vampire Academy!!

When Rose Hathaway and her mentor, Dimitri Belikov, take a trip outside St. Vladimir's the last thing either of them expected to encounter was a Strigoi attack. Making their way to meet the legendary guardian, Arthur Schoenberg; for Rose's Qualifier exam, the pair stumble upon a Moroi and Guardian massacre done by the Strigoi. Among those deceased is Arthur. With the news, St. Vladimir's has organized a trip to a wealthy Moroi ski lodge for winter vacation in Idaho. Aside from those attending the Academy, other Moroi and their Guardians are welcomed for strength in numbers.

What's supposed to be an enjoyable trip soon turns into terror when news of a second attack makes its way to the lodge. And to make matters worse, three of Rose's friends decide to take matters into their own hands, and leave the lodge in order to find and stop the Strigoi from attacking.

Once again, Rose takes matters into her own hands with the help of Christian, but what happens next is a surprise. Even to herself.

The plot this time revolves around the Strigoi and the attacks that they're causing. Strigoi make more of an appearance in Frostbite whereas in Vampire Academy there was talk with a teeny tiny glimpse into the world of the evil undead. More information on them are brought up throughout the book, especially one part that pertains to the ending climax. Another element to the plot involves the Moroi and their political stance on whether or not to fight along side their guardians.

Although this glimpse is a small one, it's one that will leave one wanting more into the Moroi political world.

There are many new relationships in Frostbite, but those already established continue to grow more in this novel. One of those that I throughly enjoyed was the dynamic between Rose and Christian. While they still will never become the best of friends, their dynamic is one of my favorites. The two end up teaming up to bring back those who've left the lodge, but when things go awry, the communication between them both is enough to see what a good team they really do make.

Frostbite introduces to us new characters: Adrian Ivashkov; a Moroi whom Rose meets at the ski lodge and quickly takes an interest in her, but also is seemingly different than the other Moroi. Tasha Ozera; Tasha is Christian's aunt who helped to save him once his parents came back to take their son. And Janine Hathaway; the legendary guardian and Rose's mom.

Janine and Adrian were two characters I fell in love with instantly, and wished they had been used a little bit more than they were. But seeing the roles they played with Frostbite, I hold no grudge. Tasha was a character who I just didn't connect with a lot, but I will admit that the woman is a badass, especially with a speech she makes during a royal Moroi meeting.

And, of course, no YA book is complete without its romance, and Frostbite has plenty of it! Rose still has strong feelings for Dimitri. Dimitri is trying to do the responsible thing by ignoring anything he feels for Rose. Rose thinks that there is something going on between Tasha and Dimitri (whom are old friends). Tasha has asked Dimitri to be her guardian since none of the Ozera's has a guardian along with her wanting a baby. And then we add Adrian to the whole mix with him instantly gravitating towards Rose after their first encounter.

Regardless, Frostbite is an action packed follow up that is considerably better than Vampire Academy and will have readers hooked from the very first chapter.

I loved this series (and I love vampire/paranormal books in general). It’s not completely out there from an originality perspective, but it is different enough from the seemingly thousands of vampire books publishing she’s around the same time. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Yes, Yes, Yes, YESS!!!

I'm officially obsessed with this series. The romance - YES. The characters - YES. The plot twists - YEEEES!!!

I'm going to keep this short but basically, this series is my new obsession. Every time I thought I knew where the plot was going IT WENT SOMEWHERE ELSE. It was so perfect. It went in so many directions and every time it changed directions I was on the edge of my seat. I haven't been this obsessed with a series in a really long time. Gots ta read the next book NOW!

Shortcomings -- yeah, the writing isn't the most talented and the pacing is still way too fast at times (I'd love to just enjoy some scenes and not rush into the next scene) but honestly, the plot and characters make up for everything. Four-point-five stars!

Is rather well written, except for one point that's driving me crazy: the author/narrator has apparently never heard of a fertility clinic, en vitro fertilization, or surrogacy, concepts which have been around for the last 50 years or so. Because of this lapse, the plot is dramatized with angst about loving someone, but not being able to have his children, but he has a chance with someone else, and all these Dhampir women get a bad reputation because they have to sleep with certain guys to get pregnant and carry the future of their race, and apparently the fathers aren't really in the picture because they're a bunch of bums that sleep around and hide behind their bodyguards...yeah. Not really thought out that well. But the rest of the plot is a bit intriguing. I'm curious what they'll learn about the spirit powers, and what the Strigoi have planned, and whether they'll finally put in a self-defense class for the puny Miroi...

I enjoyed this book nearly as much as the first one in the series, but I'm getting really frustrated with the lack of progress in Dimitri and Rose's forbidden romance. Instead, it seems to have taken a backseat to other plotlines, such as the turmoil between Rose and her mother and the political climate that Lissa is moving into. I find Rose's mother, Janine, intriguing in that she seems to be what Rose could become if Rose chooses duty over love. I sure wish that Janine would open up more since there seems to be a lot of great plot material there that was not exploited very much - Rose's black eye being a perfect example. The politics that Lissa is dealing with appear to be moving in the direction that I guessed might happen when I read the first book, which is an equalizing between the Moroi and Dhampir classes of their society, especially when it comes to dealing with the Strigoi.
Despite how Rose views Adrian, I actually rather like him. There is always something attractive about the flirty-jokester that entices women - afterall I don't know a woman who doesn't like to laugh. It's obvious that he really likes Rose and I find myself feeling sorry for him since Rose is definitely taken, even if not in the literal sense yet. Mason really ends up in the worst position, though, even if I don't include what happens to him in the end. Rose all but lies to him while he falls for her hard, all the while being the perfect gentlemen. In a way, Mason and Adrian are opposite in styles, and yet Rose is blind to both - not that I blame her, as she likes to say, "Dimitri is a badass." Why is it that female protagonists always seem to have hords of guys going after them? (Think - Twilight saga, Rachel Morgan series, Mercy Thompson series, House of Night series, etc.)
I wish that Rose's nazar could be explained a bit more, as there seems to be more to it than anyone is discussing. Adrian knows things that he is not spilling, and Janine sure is tight-lipped about most of her life, excluding what she does in the line of duty.

Does "Oh, my, gosh" cover it? This novel was a fantastic follow up to VA, and I can't wait to start Shadow Kiss now that I'm done with Frostbite. Rose is dealing with so much more in this novel: Dimitri liking another woman, her mom coming back, not seeing Lissa enough, Mason's feelings, and so much more. This novel really dove into everything so gracefully, and I loved watching Rose's character develop and grow. Bringing in some new characters definitely added to the mix, Janine Hathaway and Adrian Ivashkov (who has an interesting secret...).

Highlights: Rose's growth throughout the novel. She's a strong girl, and she has to grow up fast. Sometimes she still acts like a kid, but she grew immensely with everything she dealt with in this novel.

Lowlights: Possible foreshadowing? Lissa's medication not working as well...makes me a little nervous. I can't wait to see what happens with that.

It's not so much that this book is worse than the first Vampire Academy novel - it's that it felt like I was reading the same novel over again.

I can tell you the exact point when I knew I had to stop reading the series. Rose looked into a mirror and said that she found herself to be a 9 or a 10 on the looks scale.

It completely ruined my immersion and I wasn't able to get back into her head. I finished the book, and I'd be lying to say that the ending didn't affect me, but I never did read the rest of the books. Unfortunately, much of the rest of the book simply reinforced what happened in the last book in regards to the repetition of the relationship between Dimitri and Rose.

I might check out Richelle Mead's other books to see if they're a better read, but I'm done with her YA fiction.

I'm really not sure about these two on the cover. The only conclusion I can come to is that it's Christian and Lissa, though I'm sure it's supposed to be Rose and Dimitri. And while I can buy that that girl could be Lissa, the dude is definitely not Christian. Or Dimitri. Ah, well. So I picked up the second Vampire Academy book hoping for more standout world building and perhaps a little more in-depth character development. I finished Vampire Academy enthused about the series' possibilities, but a little disenchanted with the characters as well as the info-dump climax. The villain starts monologuing and I'm rolling my eyes. I do enjoy Richelle Mead's smooth writing and the upfront approach she takes to running her characters through the mill and seeing what comes out on the other side. So I went into FROSTBITE with an open mind.

Life at St. Vlad's has entered a sort of holding pattern. Rose and Dimitri have agreed to stay away from each other "socially." You know, in the interest of putting their duty as dhampir above the desires of their hearts. Dimitri is thinking of moving on, both professionally and emotionally, while Rose's friend Mason would give his right arm for a few quality minutes alone with Dimitri's girl. Christian and Lissa, on the other hand, have decided to make a go of it and their open affection is grating like fingernails on a chalkboard on Rose's nerves. Her little psychic connection with Lissa makes romantic encounters more than a little uncomfortable. So when a proposed Christmas vacation trip to a resort and ski lodge comes up, Rose jumps at the chance, eager to escape even for a little while. Add in a Strigoi attack on some veteran guardians, an unexpected visit from Rose's mother, and the beginnings of a potentially enormous power shift, and you've got quite the little powder keg. While hobnobbing among the Moiroi elite, Rose encounters well-known bad boy Adrian Ivashkov. Adrian has his own demons and they may have connections with Lissa, and hence with Rose.

This installment was a decided improvement on the first book. I enjoyed taking everyone out of their usual haunts and setting them down in a new environment to see how nicely they play. Trust Rose to make it not very nicely at all. Her face-offs with her mother were especially enjoyable, one workout scene in particular had me grinning. This scene in particular served to place me firmly on Rose's side. I understood her anger and outrage and considered it perfectly justified. When it comes to Dimitri I fear I'm a little bit through. Rose's love and longing and general forlorn-ness I totally get. Hell, I remember feeling precisely that way at her age. But Dimitri's 24. I'm somehow a little less sympathetic with his plight and wish he would just man up and decide. My opinion here is no doubt influenced by Adrian. True to form, I'm a fan of the bad boy. Clove cigarettes and constant self-medicating aside, the boy is mysterious and funny and interesting and I am a fan of whatever will bring he and Rose a little closer together. There. I've said it. You can sign me up for Team Adrian from here on out. FROSTBITE has the deeper development of Rose's character that I was hoping for and it builds up to a genuine nail-biter of a climax. I throughly enjoyed it. Point to you, Ms. Mead. On to book three.

This is not your typical Vampire novel. In my opinion, it's much more orignal and fun than most! It has a range of great characters that you can both adore and hate - that's something that really makes this book come alive! The sequal to the excellent book: Vampire Academy excedes the first and makes me even more impatient for the third novel to come out!

Rose Hathaway is a Guardian-In-Training. She's a student at St. Vladmir's High where teenagers train to either be Guardians or to be protected by Guardians (the Moroi). Her dementor is Dimitri whom Rose completely adores but my stay away from because of their difference in age and the fact that they can't be distracted when they are going to be protecting the same girl: Lissa.

Dimitri might be having his eye on someone else and Rose's friend, Mason would do anything to be with her. But aside from Rose's constant guy trouble the Moroi royalty are constantly being attacked by Strigoi (Moroi gone bad.) and ruthlessly killed in the process. They are killing royalty and common blood alike as well as the Guardians that live to protect them. They must do whatever they can to stop this group of Strigoi from killing any more of their species!

Another thing is going on as well. Rose's own mother, the great fighter and killer of Strigoi is coming to her school and Rose could not be more displeased...

Things are crazy at St. Vladimir and all could possibly end fatally...

Enjoy this novel!

Another one, just as good or even better than the first book! Ms Mead is creating a completely real world revolving around a teenager growing up, with the added bonus of involving a dark vampiric setting.

Rose is now ready to take her Qualifier, and to accompany her is her true love and mentor, Dimitri, but as they arrive at their destination they discover that issues are array. Come to find bodies of moroi and dhamphir gardians spread about.

They realize that humans are now helping the gruesome and lurid stigois. St Valdmir in panic, they recognize the safest approach is to take the students to a ski resort, where it is easily guarded. Christmas, Rose conceives, is definitely not what she had expected. She is entirely confused with her forbidden love with Dimitri, her attraction to Mason, her mother returning after years without contact whatsoever, Lissa straying away to spend more and more time with Christian, and trying to find ways to cope and comprehend with what an actual life of a guardian is after seeing it first hand the grave risks and responsibilities.

I find the characters so intriguing especially the growing up process with Rose. I sympathize with the way she always tries to be the one with the level head. She is so strong and is so hard on herself when she feels she could have done more or acted a differently in certain situations, but that's part of growing up. I can relate, as other will too, to the novels authentic grasp of maturing in life that is both real and reality. My languid heart aches for more!

For Rose Hathaway, life as a Guardian-in-training at St. Vladimir's Academy is never easy.

While her best friend, future charge, and sole remaining member of the royal family member (Lissa) may no longer be in direct danger, the Strigoi (those vampires who drink blood, possess super-strength, have red pupils, and also have no qualms about using their powers over the elements as a method of attack) are still the greatest threat facing their Moroi counterparts.

Rose and her number-one crush, instructor Dimitri Belakov, discover just how significant this threat is when they arrive at what should have been Rose's make-up Qualifier exam with famed Guardian Arthur Schoenberg. What they find instead is seven royal Moroi, massacred in their own home along with their Guardians - and evidence that the Strigoi are now being helped by humans.

With Christmas vacation drawing near, St. Vlad's is on high alert and not terribly inclined to unleash their students into the great wide world. A school field trip to an exclusive Moroi ski lodge is the perfect solution, not just for a Moroi seeking to elude the Strigoi, but also for Rose, who's looking to escape two recent female campus arrivals - one of whom has a history and penchant for flirting with Dimitri.

What guests from St. Vlad's and elsewhere will soon realize, though, is that their enemies are much closer than they think.

FROSTBITE is an engrossing, complex paranormal follow-up to VAMPIRE ACADEMY, with a page-turning plot and deeply layered characters, whose growth and development over the course of the novel is believable and (in some cases) inevitable. Though there were a few scenes that lagged, I had a hard time putting this book down even for necessities like eating and sleeping.

Reviewed by: Cat

Same great voice and humor, but was essentially just a setup for the plot of book 3. Would have liked a more complete conflict and resolution as opposed to unearthing a conspiracy and ending there. But there's nothing wrong with a stepping stone.

I'm not sure why so many other reviewers love Janine - I can't stand her. But either way, the character elicits strong feelings.

In response to many other reviewers: yes, this is "typical YA" in that teenagers complain a lot.
Have you met teenagers? They complain. It's sort of all they do.

But this is not "typical YA" in that it's a very clever and original twist on a genre that's been overdone.

Enjoyable, looking forward to 3.

I really enjoyed this book. The first book in the series offered a good opportunity to get to know everyone but all the social aspects and gossip was getting old. Regardless, I couldn't put the book down and I had a hard time taking breaks from this one too. I read Frostbite in a day and a half and went immediately to buy the third in the series. I loved the action and enjoyed seeing how Rose is growing both in maturity and her skills. I am eager to read the rest of the series.

I take it Tall Poppy Syndrome doesn't exist in the US. Rose Hathaway is hot and she knows it. I don't like false modesty, but blatant arrogance also pisses me off. Rose wouldn't survive Australia, in which our motto is "get over yourself."

But Rose's melodramas make for sweet, nourishing crack. Yes, they're trashy, but also deliciously fun to read. And in the end, isn't that what reading should be about? Good thing I have the rest of the series ready and waiting on my bookshelf. I sense entertaining reading ahead!

The series is so good it needed a graphic novel. :) I do think it's amusing the money-making trend that unsuspecting fans fall for with these graphic novels, but, yes, I'm one of them. I actually have a tattoo of one of EmmaV's artwork from this second volume Frostbite. With her permission of course. The characters.. even though are different to each readers mind, are captured pretty well by the artists hand. These novels are enjoyable. Recommended for the lazy reader, the artist and the obsessed RMead fan.

Loved it.
Rose is on her way to becoming a great guardian, as long as she can control herself better... with her absent mother visiting, her feelings for Dimitri growing, and her best friend being distracted - she's having a hard time with self control. A surge of jealousy leads to a series of bad mistakes and loved ones are put in dangers path. Rose realizes she's still got a lot to learn before she becomes a full fledged guardian

I read the first and it was great and the second is even better. You learn more about the characters that you have grown to love. I know I love a book when I get upset about a characters decisions as if the person was a close friend. Through this book I was totally engrossed in it.

There is a love triangle that is actually a little wierd since Rose is kind of a bystander caught in the middle of something she wouldn't be involved in if not for her bond with Lissa.

Then there is a love triangle which is more of a square since Dimitri and Rose are crushing on eachother but can't be together for the many reasons that Dimitri gives

Then Mason just adores Rose and since Rose can't be with Dimitri she tries to create feelings for Mason and then their is the women that wants to steal Dimitri (or as she calls him Dimka) away from Rose.

The author did another great job with the characters you learn more about them and how they work. I know that I will read this series over and over again.

Read it and am awaiting the next book. I can't wait.

Had reservations starting this series, but with this installment the storyline and characters fleshed out more and I have been drawn in to this world. I actually read this one in one setting, the story was so fast paced with action and answers to questions around every turn while giving the reader still more to try and figure out! If you haven't tried this series or didn't get hooked by the first book, give this one a go you will be drawn in.

From the first page of Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy, Book 1) I was hooked. By inventing a fresh, original take on vampires with a believable biology and a detailed world layout explained by more than simply "magic" I saw the start of a great series. By weaving in the beginnings of a forbidden romance and a intensely interesting conflict I knew that I'd devour the book within a day. And I did. I ordered Frostbite from three different places right away: Borders, the store and the library. Then I paced around for a week and jumped whenever the phone rang. When I walked to the end of the driveway and found it sitting innocently in the mailbox I ripped it open right there - talk about papercuts, but I didn't feel them, because I was hyped up on adrenaline! - I actually sat down right on the lawn and read. Mmmm. Richelle can do a sequel! Quite possibly the best vampire inspired novel I have ever read.
Read it. Devour it. Love it.

While the first book was very good, I really find myself being more drawn into the storyline this time around. Maybe it is because the characters and the world have already been fully formed and now we can focus on what is happening to them. Maybe it's just that I am growing attached to the characters themselves. I really like the lessons Rose learns in this book. A lot happens to her and she seems to do a lot of growing up. Without giving too much away, she is forced to rethink her life. Especially the feelings she has for herself and those around her.

First of all... what's with the covers of all of Richelle Mead's books? They are all horrible and most of her stories are SOOOO good! That's just me sounding off! :) This book is leaps and bounds better than Vampire Academy! The first book set up the series as it needed to do but this one was a great story. I love the chemistry and tension between Rose and Dimitri. I also love Mason's character. Be prepared for a rough ending though, as is the norm for Ms Mead's books! Richelle Mead's writing is just phenominal! Part of me just wishes that there wasn't so much agnst in all her books! It makes them hard to read and even harder to wait for the next installment of the series. (Anyone who's read her Succubus series knows what I mean!) I'll definitly pick up Shadow Kiss! Hopefully that will be the best one yet!

Vampire Academy is my guilty pleasure reading. It's super smooth and easy to read. Sucks you right in and keeps you there. The characters have great chemistry and complicated relationships. I love watching them grow and develop. The plot was well done and I didn't see the ending coming. Wow. Still thinking about it. Can't wait to dig into the next one. This is a really addictive series. I'm so glad I have 4 more to go!

As the story continues, I keep getting more and more addicted to this series. I absoluetely love these books. One thing is for sure, Richelle Mead knows how to keep her reader's eyes glued to the pages, I know mine were. I was so entralled with the story and the characters that I didn't even notice how fast the pages with thinning. The plot is well-developed and written, with some very unexpected twists thrown in. I fully enjoyed every inch of this book and I can't wait to start reading the next book in the Vampire Academy series, Shadow Kiss.

I like this series a lot. It is a great YA series that is good for all ages. The characters are great, even though I am not the biggest fan of Lissa. She definitely feels like a "royal." I love Rose but I really like Tasha now as well. I love the interaction of the characters, and how each of their relationships play out.

I really like the story surround Vampire Academy series. I think it's quite unique in YA Paranormal books.
However, I still have a hard time with the main characters. Rose still is a narcissist brat (Yes, she did grow up a bit, but not enough to change my mind about her) and Dimitri is good as a wallflower.

I still don't get the hype, but I'm still willing to give this series a chance.

So i admit, i been avoiding all the vampire books that seem to fill up bookshelves at the library and at bookstores. The whole Vampire YA Fiction has been getting old, really quickly. On that note, Richelle somehow manages to take a refreshing new look on vampires one that includes a complex relationship between guardians, good vampires, and bad vampires. The main character Rose is a little rough on the edges as she tends to lose her temper rather easily. At points, i do admit it got a little annoying until foreshadowing explained a possible reason why she's always on edge. Aside, from that minor problem the story really grabs your attention, Richelle writes in a way that doesn't talk down to the reader as many other YA Fiction Writers do and she captures an essence that makes the characters and their relationships come alive. The whole vampire war tension is portrayed well- and it really works out in the book. Richelle knows what she's doing, giving enough to keep you going but, not too much where the vampire war has already come to an end. Smart, funny, and romantic, anyone who is a fan of YA Fiction should read this book series.

Conclusion: YA Fiction has plenty of books, some which aren't that great but readable and others that are terrible. The Vampire Academy Series stands on that pedestal of good YA Fiction. Even if vampires aren't your thing, try it you may surprise yourself and actually like it.

As I stated in the previous book's review we got this on a recommendation of my then 13 year old daughter's BFF. We tore through the first book in a few days time (the both of us) & so it was off to the bookstore where we got this book (Book 2) & book 3. It took us about the same amount of time about 3 days total for both of us to read this book and the about 3 days for us to read the 3rd. The books catch your attention early & keep it with action & suspense. Good pick for you tween/teen & even yourself ... Give it a try!

Wow, I did not see the ending coming. This whole book took me by surprise. Wicked and trusted people coming out of the closet, secret groupings breaking the molds, torture, death and salvation, love and heartbreak, it had it all. Ms. Mead amped up the drama and left me rushing for book 3 the moment I finished. I continue to see these wonderfully troubled characters face their demons.

The Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead is the best vampire story ever written. It goes beyond our generic acceptence of straight-edged good and evil vampires and delivers a powerful story of romance, jealously and all the teenage angst we crave.
We meet Rosemarie Hathaway (Rose) and Vasilisa Dragomir (Lissa) in the first of this brilliant series in Vampire Academy. Rose is tough, strong-headed and so loyal to her best friend that she would die for her. Lissa is sweet, caring and content to follow her best friend to the end of the world. They are complete opposites yet they compliment each other in every aspect. Mead was able to create these dynamic characters and has sustained their original attributes through two exceptionally brilliant novels.
Rose and Lissa had run away from school because of Lissa's secrets, but they were found by the handsome, Russian, Guardian Dimitri Belikov. Taking them back to St Vladimirs turns out to be surprise after surprise for the two girls as they come to have new enemies they never had before and falling in love with boys they probably shouldn't have.
Love interest flairs up between Rose and Dimitri, Rose's new mentor (he is seven years older than Rose). As they battle with their emotions, Lissa is kidnapped by unlikely foe who puts them all in more danger than they realise.
Racing against time to find Lissa, using Rose's uncanny bond with Lissa, they manage to find the cabin that she is being stowed away in. But she isn't there. Rose realising this, runs into the forest after her with Christian, Lissa's unusual love interest.
Facing more battles than they realised, and forming bonds even stronger than that of Rose and Lissa's we are left craving more.
Which is where Frostbite comes in.
After a huge strigoi attack on the Badica family, it puts all Moroi and Dhamphir alike, in fear. Annoyed with Dimitri's way of treating her, Rose's long-absent mother turns up at the school, angering her even further.
Though and unlikely source of excitement runs through the school; an exspensive ski lodge has offered all Moroi families to come stay the christmas with them. Though even a challenge with Mason on the slopes can't take away the anger and resentment she feels toward Dimitri, his new love interest, Christian and most of all her mother.
The climax of the story begins when Mason, Mia (who's mother had been killed by the Strigoi attacks) and Eddie head out in search of the Strigoi that they so want to kill. Rose realising this, heads out in search for them, with Christian tagging along.
Finding them in the mall where the Strigoi have supposedly set up camp, Rose becomes the mother figure to them and starts to drag them home until they get lost. Though they don't have time to be afraid because they are attacked by Human's with guns. Even Rose's extensive training with Dimitri can't prepare her for what is in store for her and her friends for the next few days.
I found that the ending to Frostbite was one of my favourite endings I have ever read. Mead weaved intricately so many emotions into her final climax that you will be left pondering the ending for many days to come.

Richelle Mead is a brilliant writer and her work on the Vampire Academy series exceeds all other vampire novels. You'll left having to read them over and over again until she brings us the next installment to this thrilling saga.

Students at the Academy are given an opportunity to spend the holidays at a ski resort! However, there is a lot of tension in the air as Dimitri has to chose if he will stay on as an instructor at the academy, or if he will become a guardian for another Moroi. Rose also meets Adrian, a devil-may-care bad boy who turns out to be a powerful player in the series. Just as good as the first book, the ending will leaving you wanting to read book three! Highly recommended!

I really enjoyed this book. The first book in the series offered a good opportunity to get to know everyone but all the social aspects and gossip was getting old. Regardless, I couldn't put the book down and I had a hard time taking breaks from this one too. I read Frostbite in a day and a half and went immediately to buy the third in the series. I loved the action and enjoyed seeing how Rose is growing both in maturity and her skills. I am eager to read the rest of the series.

I take it Tall Poppy Syndrome doesn't exist in the US. Rose Hathaway is hot and she knows it. I don't like false modesty, but blatant arrogance also pisses me off. Rose wouldn't survive Australia, in which our motto is "get over yourself."

But Rose's melodramas make for sweet, nourishing crack. Yes, they're trashy, but also deliciously fun to read. And in the end, isn't that what reading should be about? Good thing I have the rest of the series ready and waiting on my bookshelf. I sense entertaining reading ahead!

The series is so good it needed a graphic novel. :) I do think it's amusing the money-making trend that unsuspecting fans fall for with these graphic novels, but, yes, I'm one of them. I actually have a tattoo of one of EmmaV's artwork from this second volume Frostbite. With her permission of course. The characters.. even though are different to each readers mind, are captured pretty well by the artists hand. These novels are enjoyable. Recommended for the lazy reader, the artist and the obsessed RMead fan.

Loved it.
Rose is on her way to becoming a great guardian, as long as she can control herself better... with her absent mother visiting, her feelings for Dimitri growing, and her best friend being distracted - she's having a hard time with self control. A surge of jealousy leads to a series of bad mistakes and loved ones are put in dangers path. Rose realizes she's still got a lot to learn before she becomes a full fledged guardian

I read the first and it was great and the second is even better. You learn more about the characters that you have grown to love. I know I love a book when I get upset about a characters decisions as if the person was a close friend. Through this book I was totally engrossed in it.

There is a love triangle that is actually a little wierd since Rose is kind of a bystander caught in the middle of something she wouldn't be involved in if not for her bond with Lissa.

Then there is a love triangle which is more of a square since Dimitri and Rose are crushing on eachother but can't be together for the many reasons that Dimitri gives

Then Mason just adores Rose and since Rose can't be with Dimitri she tries to create feelings for Mason and then their is the women that wants to steal Dimitri (or as she calls him Dimka) away from Rose.

The author did another great job with the characters you learn more about them and how they work. I know that I will read this series over and over again.

Read it and am awaiting the next book. I can't wait.

Had reservations starting this series, but with this installment the storyline and characters fleshed out more and I have been drawn in to this world. I actually read this one in one setting, the story was so fast paced with action and answers to questions around every turn while giving the reader still more to try and figure out! If you haven't tried this series or didn't get hooked by the first book, give this one a go you will be drawn in.

From the first page of Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy, Book 1) I was hooked. By inventing a fresh, original take on vampires with a believable biology and a detailed world layout explained by more than simply "magic" I saw the start of a great series. By weaving in the beginnings of a forbidden romance and a intensely interesting conflict I knew that I'd devour the book within a day. And I did. I ordered Frostbite from three different places right away: Borders, the store and the library. Then I paced around for a week and jumped whenever the phone rang. When I walked to the end of the driveway and found it sitting innocently in the mailbox I ripped it open right there - talk about papercuts, but I didn't feel them, because I was hyped up on adrenaline! - I actually sat down right on the lawn and read. Mmmm. Richelle can do a sequel! Quite possibly the best vampire inspired novel I have ever read.
Read it. Devour it. Love it.

While the first book was very good, I really find myself being more drawn into the storyline this time around. Maybe it is because the characters and the world have already been fully formed and now we can focus on what is happening to them. Maybe it's just that I am growing attached to the characters themselves. I really like the lessons Rose learns in this book. A lot happens to her and she seems to do a lot of growing up. Without giving too much away, she is forced to rethink her life. Especially the feelings she has for herself and those around her.

First of all... what's with the covers of all of Richelle Mead's books? They are all horrible and most of her stories are SOOOO good! That's just me sounding off! :) This book is leaps and bounds better than Vampire Academy! The first book set up the series as it needed to do but this one was a great story. I love the chemistry and tension between Rose and Dimitri. I also love Mason's character. Be prepared for a rough ending though, as is the norm for Ms Mead's books! Richelle Mead's writing is just phenominal! Part of me just wishes that there wasn't so much agnst in all her books! It makes them hard to read and even harder to wait for the next installment of the series. (Anyone who's read her Succubus series knows what I mean!) I'll definitly pick up Shadow Kiss! Hopefully that will be the best one yet!

Vampire Academy is my guilty pleasure reading. It's super smooth and easy to read. Sucks you right in and keeps you there. The characters have great chemistry and complicated relationships. I love watching them grow and develop. The plot was well done and I didn't see the ending coming. Wow. Still thinking about it. Can't wait to dig into the next one. This is a really addictive series. I'm so glad I have 4 more to go!

As the story continues, I keep getting more and more addicted to this series. I absoluetely love these books. One thing is for sure, Richelle Mead knows how to keep her reader's eyes glued to the pages, I know mine were. I was so entralled with the story and the characters that I didn't even notice how fast the pages with thinning. The plot is well-developed and written, with some very unexpected twists thrown in. I fully enjoyed every inch of this book and I can't wait to start reading the next book in the Vampire Academy series, Shadow Kiss.

I like this series a lot. It is a great YA series that is good for all ages. The characters are great, even though I am not the biggest fan of Lissa. She definitely feels like a "royal." I love Rose but I really like Tasha now as well. I love the interaction of the characters, and how each of their relationships play out.

I really like the story surround Vampire Academy series. I think it's quite unique in YA Paranormal books.
However, I still have a hard time with the main characters. Rose still is a narcissist brat (Yes, she did grow up a bit, but not enough to change my mind about her) and Dimitri is good as a wallflower.

I still don't get the hype, but I'm still willing to give this series a chance.

So i admit, i been avoiding all the vampire books that seem to fill up bookshelves at the library and at bookstores. The whole Vampire YA Fiction has been getting old, really quickly. On that note, Richelle somehow manages to take a refreshing new look on vampires one that includes a complex relationship between guardians, good vampires, and bad vampires. The main character Rose is a little rough on the edges as she tends to lose her temper rather easily. At points, i do admit it got a little annoying until foreshadowing explained a possible reason why she's always on edge. Aside, from that minor problem the story really grabs your attention, Richelle writes in a way that doesn't talk down to the reader as many other YA Fiction Writers do and she captures an essence that makes the characters and their relationships come alive. The whole vampire war tension is portrayed well- and it really works out in the book. Richelle knows what she's doing, giving enough to keep you going but, not too much where the vampire war has already come to an end. Smart, funny, and romantic, anyone who is a fan of YA Fiction should read this book series.

Conclusion: YA Fiction has plenty of books, some which aren't that great but readable and others that are terrible. The Vampire Academy Series stands on that pedestal of good YA Fiction. Even if vampires aren't your thing, try it you may surprise yourself and actually like it.

As I stated in the previous book's review we got this on a recommendation of my then 13 year old daughter's BFF. We tore through the first book in a few days time (the both of us) & so it was off to the bookstore where we got this book (Book 2) & book 3. It took us about the same amount of time about 3 days total for both of us to read this book and the about 3 days for us to read the 3rd. The books catch your attention early & keep it with action & suspense. Good pick for you tween/teen & even yourself ... Give it a try!

Wow, I did not see the ending coming. This whole book took me by surprise. Wicked and trusted people coming out of the closet, secret groupings breaking the molds, torture, death and salvation, love and heartbreak, it had it all. Ms. Mead amped up the drama and left me rushing for book 3 the moment I finished. I continue to see these wonderfully troubled characters face their demons.

The Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead is the best vampire story ever written. It goes beyond our generic acceptence of straight-edged good and evil vampires and delivers a powerful story of romance, jealously and all the teenage angst we crave.
We meet Rosemarie Hathaway (Rose) and Vasilisa Dragomir (Lissa) in the first of this brilliant series in Vampire Academy. Rose is tough, strong-headed and so loyal to her best friend that she would die for her. Lissa is sweet, caring and content to follow her best friend to the end of the world. They are complete opposites yet they compliment each other in every aspect. Mead was able to create these dynamic characters and has sustained their original attributes through two exceptionally brilliant novels.
Rose and Lissa had run away from school because of Lissa's secrets, but they were found by the handsome, Russian, Guardian Dimitri Belikov. Taking them back to St Vladimirs turns out to be surprise after surprise for the two girls as they come to have new enemies they never had before and falling in love with boys they probably shouldn't have.
Love interest flairs up between Rose and Dimitri, Rose's new mentor (he is seven years older than Rose). As they battle with their emotions, Lissa is kidnapped by unlikely foe who puts them all in more danger than they realise.
Racing against time to find Lissa, using Rose's uncanny bond with Lissa, they manage to find the cabin that she is being stowed away in. But she isn't there. Rose realising this, runs into the forest after her with Christian, Lissa's unusual love interest.
Facing more battles than they realised, and forming bonds even stronger than that of Rose and Lissa's we are left craving more.
Which is where Frostbite comes in.
After a huge strigoi attack on the Badica family, it puts all Moroi and Dhamphir alike, in fear. Annoyed with Dimitri's way of treating her, Rose's long-absent mother turns up at the school, angering her even further.
Though and unlikely source of excitement runs through the school; an exspensive ski lodge has offered all Moroi families to come stay the christmas with them. Though even a challenge with Mason on the slopes can't take away the anger and resentment she feels toward Dimitri, his new love interest, Christian and most of all her mother.
The climax of the story begins when Mason, Mia (who's mother had been killed by the Strigoi attacks) and Eddie head out in search of the Strigoi that they so want to kill. Rose realising this, heads out in search for them, with Christian tagging along.
Finding them in the mall where the Strigoi have supposedly set up camp, Rose becomes the mother figure to them and starts to drag them home until they get lost. Though they don't have time to be afraid because they are attacked by Human's with guns. Even Rose's extensive training with Dimitri can't prepare her for what is in store for her and her friends for the next few days.
I found that the ending to Frostbite was one of my favourite endings I have ever read. Mead weaved intricately so many emotions into her final climax that you will be left pondering the ending for many days to come.

Richelle Mead is a brilliant writer and her work on the Vampire Academy series exceeds all other vampire novels. You'll left having to read them over and over again until she brings us the next installment to this thrilling saga.

Students at the Academy are given an opportunity to spend the holidays at a ski resort! However, there is a lot of tension in the air as Dimitri has to chose if he will stay on as an instructor at the academy, or if he will become a guardian for another Moroi. Rose also meets Adrian, a devil-may-care bad boy who turns out to be a powerful player in the series. Just as good as the first book, the ending will leaving you wanting to read book three! Highly recommended!