Melanie Dickerson returns to the Dericott family in this newest fairy tale retelling. Though there are a few tie-ins, this story felt more like a stand alone book. With delightful characters, enough danger to keep things interesting, and a sweet love story that takes it's time developing and I found myself devouring this book! I love how the Dericott stories all have some intrigue, enough danger to make the setting real and to keep the reader entertained and fully involved in the story. But in the end, there will always be a happily-ever-after, even if it doesn't look the way the reader expects when you first start the book. Sir Berenger gets his story told in this newest book. He is a knight of the highest setting, wanting to serve his God, his King and country. All while maintaining the good manners and faith he was raised with. Mazy has been loved all her life, but now her father is gone and she has to face the reality of brothers who do not care either way. Their paths cross throughout the story, showing how friendship has a chance to develop into more when properly nourished. With tales of great battles fought and a single woman fighting to find a place in London, this story has everything needed to put a satisfied sigh on the lips of readers. Melanie Dickerson is a master at retelling fairy tales that leaves the reader thrilled with the knights and ladies of old. Dangerous battles, stunning stories of betrayal, good finding a way to triumph, and love stories the minstrels would croon over all come together into a thrilling story that always entertains. I thoroughly enjoyed this newest Dericott tale and can't wait for the next brother to tell his story! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Dericott Tales are always fun to read and Fortress of Snow is no exception. Mazy is a young woman who has had a close relationship with her father. He taught her many skills that are untraditional for girls, such as knife throwing, archery, fishing, and keeping the estate books. After he dies, her family consists of her brother John, who is a knight, and her step-brother Warin, who she barely knows and who wants to just marry her off as quickly as possible. Since she doesn't want that, she goes to see John and meets Sir Berenger of Dericott. He's tall, handsome, and always so very kind to everyone. He shows more concern for her than her brother does. This is the beginning of their friendship that doesn't seem like it can ever be more. There is adventure, danger, faith, and romance. I enjoyed reading Fortress of Snow.

Melanie Dickerson*s fairytale reimaginings are some of my favorites. I*m always curious to see how she puts her own spin on them. Fortress of Snow is loosely based on The Snow Queen. I didn*t know anything about this fairytale going in and that was a good thing because there are some twists in this story where it*s better not knowing what might happen next. I liked the clear battle of good versus evil. The villainess is one of those characters you love to hate. She*s particularly nasty.

The story takes place in England in the late 1300s. Mazy runs away to Strachleigh Castle to be with her brother John when her father dies unexpectedly and her oldest brother is trying to force her to marry. There she befriends Sir Berenger who is hoping to make a name for himself and earn the king*s favor. When duty calls Berenger away to Prague and Sir John is called to London, Mazy goes with John despite his indifferent treatment of her. She learns to live on her own after befriending a girl named Ro and learns to make and sell bread. She also develops some pretty great knife fighting skills which come in handy.

When Berenger returns to London, he finds Mazy all grown up. There is definitely an attraction there, but with precarious financial prospects, he accepts the offer of the King to court the beautiful Lady Bristow. He travels to her castle to see if they would suit. Mazy who is secretly in love with him is saddened over his choice. But, all is not as it seems at the castle especially with regard to Lady Bristow*s young ward. When Mazy finds out that Sir Berenger may be in danger she decides to travel to Bristow castle to warn him.

I enjoyed this story especially the second half. It started out a little slow, but once Berenger meets Lady Bristow, the story really gets going. She*s definitely a temptress with questionable intensions. Berenger is such a good and noble knight who takes his oaths and responsibilities seriously and thank heavens, because it takes all his strength to resist Lady Bristow. I loved the way he wants to protect Mazy and the kindness he shows towards Lady Bristow*s ward, Juliana.

Mazy is definitely a heroine you can cheer for. She is independent, caring, and dangerous with a knife. She does not hesitate to defend those she cares for. I loved the way she helped the widows and does not hesitate to go after Berenger when she thinks he*s in danger. Her brother Sir. John was a bit disappointing and I couldn*t help but feel sorry for Mazy and her lack of family support.

I listened to the audiobook version of the story and thoroughly enjoyed the narrator. She really made these characters and the story come alive. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley, but also listened to the audiobook. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

This fourth novel in the Dericott series stands alone, but it also continues the tale involving some of the characters from previous books. Orphaned Mazelina of Wexcombe does not find the longed-for assistance from her brothers, but Sir Berenger comes to her aid. This story contains a sinister plot and oozes suspense. The author presented relatable characters in a believable medieval environment. I like that Mazy didn't put on airs or feel she was above working with her hands. Readers can take note of the good example she models in living life. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #FortressofSnow #NetGalley

Another enjoyable tale. Mazy learns to be independent and take care of herself when life keeps throwing obstacles in he path. It has adventures, intrigues, and romance (starting off as friends and eventually falling in love). It's an enjoyable and quick read.

I received and ARC copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.