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Claus #2
Jack: The Tale of Frost
Sura is sixteen years old when she meets Mr. Frost. He’s very short and very fat and he likes his room very, very cold. Some might say inhumanly cold. His first name isn’t Jack, she’s told. And that’s all she needed to know.
Mr. Frost’s love for Christmas is over-the-top and slightly psychotic. And why not? He’s made billions of dollars off the holiday he invented. Or so he claims. Rumor is he’s an elven, but that’s silly. Elven aren’t real. And if they were, they wouldn’t live in South Carolina. They wouldn’t hide in a tower and go to the basement to make…things.
Nonetheless, Sura will work for this odd little recluse. Frost Plantation is where she’ll meet the love of her life. It’s where she’ll finally feel like she belongs somewhere. And it’s where she’ll meet someone fatter, balder and stranger than Mr. Frost. It’s where she’ll meet Jack.
Jack hates Christmas.
Mr. Frost’s love for Christmas is over-the-top and slightly psychotic. And why not? He’s made billions of dollars off the holiday he invented. Or so he claims. Rumor is he’s an elven, but that’s silly. Elven aren’t real. And if they were, they wouldn’t live in South Carolina. They wouldn’t hide in a tower and go to the basement to make…things.
Nonetheless, Sura will work for this odd little recluse. Frost Plantation is where she’ll meet the love of her life. It’s where she’ll finally feel like she belongs somewhere. And it’s where she’ll meet someone fatter, balder and stranger than Mr. Frost. It’s where she’ll meet Jack.
Jack hates Christmas.
290 pages, ebook
First published October 17, 2013
About the author
Tony Bertauski
59 books736 followersGet my books FREE. Tell me where to send them at http://bertauski.com
He grew up in the Midwest where the land is flat and the corn is tall. The winters are bleak and cold. He hated winters.
He always wanted to write. But writing was hard. And he wasn’t very disciplined. The cold had nothing to do with that, but it didn’t help. That changed in grad school.
After several attempts at a proposal, his major advisor was losing money on red ink and advised him to figure it out. Somehow, he did.
After grad school, he and his wife and two very little children moved to the South in Charleston, South Carolina where the winters are spring and the summers are a sauna (cliche but dead on accurate). That’s when he started teaching and writing articles for trade magazines. He eventually published two textbooks on landscape design. He then transitioned to writing a column for the Post and Courier. They were all great gigs, but they weren’t fiction.
That was a few years later.
His daughter started reading before she could read, pretending she knew the words in books she propped on her lap. His son was a different story. In an attempt to change that, he began writing a story with him. They made up a character, gave him a name, and something to do. As with much of parenting, it did not go as planned. But the character got stuck in his head.
He wanted out.
A few years later, Socket Greeny was born. It was a science fiction trilogy that was gritty and thoughtful. That was 2005.
He has been practicing Zen since he was 23 years old. A daily meditator, he wants to instill something meaningful in his stories that appeals to a young adult crowd as well as adult. Think Hunger Games. He hadn’t planned to write fiction, didn’t even know if he had anymore stories in him after Socket Greeny.
Turns out he did.
He grew up in the Midwest where the land is flat and the corn is tall. The winters are bleak and cold. He hated winters.
He always wanted to write. But writing was hard. And he wasn’t very disciplined. The cold had nothing to do with that, but it didn’t help. That changed in grad school.
After several attempts at a proposal, his major advisor was losing money on red ink and advised him to figure it out. Somehow, he did.
After grad school, he and his wife and two very little children moved to the South in Charleston, South Carolina where the winters are spring and the summers are a sauna (cliche but dead on accurate). That’s when he started teaching and writing articles for trade magazines. He eventually published two textbooks on landscape design. He then transitioned to writing a column for the Post and Courier. They were all great gigs, but they weren’t fiction.
That was a few years later.
His daughter started reading before she could read, pretending she knew the words in books she propped on her lap. His son was a different story. In an attempt to change that, he began writing a story with him. They made up a character, gave him a name, and something to do. As with much of parenting, it did not go as planned. But the character got stuck in his head.
He wanted out.
A few years later, Socket Greeny was born. It was a science fiction trilogy that was gritty and thoughtful. That was 2005.
He has been practicing Zen since he was 23 years old. A daily meditator, he wants to instill something meaningful in his stories that appeals to a young adult crowd as well as adult. Think Hunger Games. He hadn’t planned to write fiction, didn’t even know if he had anymore stories in him after Socket Greeny.
Turns out he did.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
December 26, 2022
The story is interesting ... how the story is told, ugh. I just really don't like this writer's "style". 🤷♂️
November 21, 2013
Last Christmas, I found Claus: Legend of the Fat Man on Amazon, read it and loved it. (If you haven't read it, you NEED to.)
In October, the author messaged me and asked me if I would be interested in reading the sequel to that story - a story about Jack. Considering how I felt when I finished Claus (wanting to know more about the character of Jack), I could not pass up this opportunity.
When I was finally able to sit down and read the story, I could not put it down. I would force myself to stay away at night, wanting and needing to finish the story.
From the first page it draws you in. And it was not what I expected. None of it was. It's Jack now, along with new characters and one particularly important character from the past. A character that, without him, this story would have never been able to take place.
It was action packed, with moments that made you think, moments that made you care, moments that taught you about love and people and ... and it was amazing and beautiful ... and, though I didn't think it was possible, much better than the first.
And the ending .... Wow! I mean, the whole ending felt that way but the very end, the last couple of paragraphs ... when I finished I literally sat there with my hand over my mouth just ... frozen.
Amazing. And another must read. I can't wait to see what happens in the third.
In October, the author messaged me and asked me if I would be interested in reading the sequel to that story - a story about Jack. Considering how I felt when I finished Claus (wanting to know more about the character of Jack), I could not pass up this opportunity.
When I was finally able to sit down and read the story, I could not put it down. I would force myself to stay away at night, wanting and needing to finish the story.
From the first page it draws you in. And it was not what I expected. None of it was. It's Jack now, along with new characters and one particularly important character from the past. A character that, without him, this story would have never been able to take place.
It was action packed, with moments that made you think, moments that made you care, moments that taught you about love and people and ... and it was amazing and beautiful ... and, though I didn't think it was possible, much better than the first.
And the ending .... Wow! I mean, the whole ending felt that way but the very end, the last couple of paragraphs ... when I finished I literally sat there with my hand over my mouth just ... frozen.
Amazing. And another must read. I can't wait to see what happens in the third.
October 3, 2014
Even thought this book is classified as Young Adult it is really more for all ages. It has a great vibe and is beautifully crafted. Many of the characters are adult and only two are actually teens.
This is the follow-up to Claus and it was really terrific. The way the story jumped ahead to modern times was wonderful. I loved seeing how the world evolved and the Elven Pawn adapted to being with humans.
I have found when reading Mr Bertauski that there are many layers to the story. They are woven together and information is doled out like sweet treats in small doses. I never really guess all the intricacies that make up the whole. With the first book I never quite caught on to what the end result and that made it thrilling. I love when a book can surprise me!
The narrative is mixed and has many voices, while most of it is from Sura's POV, you get a real feel for all the characters. It helps make a fuller more realized world with intricate characters. I loved Sura's strength, Jo's loyalty, Mr Frost with his plans and Jack who is very complicated. I was a touch disappointed that Jack lost all the growth he had at the end of the last book. He was more annoying than he had been, there was just something in the last book that was missing, the thing that kept him likable.
The story this time felt slower, there was a lot of exposition to cover and that tended make the pace drag. It is all necessary, just a bit slower than I usually like. It all comes together in the end. The last quarter of the book really picked up considerably. It is all worth it when all those little details come together to bring up the big finish. So many subplots made it almost impossible to guess how things would turn out! Again, love that surprise!
I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by James Robert Killavey, who did such a great job on the first book. He has a real feel for all the characters and the idiosyncrasies that make them up. He manages to match Jack beautifully and keeps him annoying with his grating tones. He has a great pace in his read that helps move the story along at slower moments. Really fantastic combination of reader and story!!
Overall, I enjoyed this modern retelling of the Jack Frost myth and the way it connects with the first book. Beautiful storytelling that surprises and delights at every turn. I have been enchanted by these books and definitely plan to check out other works by this inventive author!
This is the follow-up to Claus and it was really terrific. The way the story jumped ahead to modern times was wonderful. I loved seeing how the world evolved and the Elven Pawn adapted to being with humans.
I have found when reading Mr Bertauski that there are many layers to the story. They are woven together and information is doled out like sweet treats in small doses. I never really guess all the intricacies that make up the whole. With the first book I never quite caught on to what the end result and that made it thrilling. I love when a book can surprise me!
The narrative is mixed and has many voices, while most of it is from Sura's POV, you get a real feel for all the characters. It helps make a fuller more realized world with intricate characters. I loved Sura's strength, Jo's loyalty, Mr Frost with his plans and Jack who is very complicated. I was a touch disappointed that Jack lost all the growth he had at the end of the last book. He was more annoying than he had been, there was just something in the last book that was missing, the thing that kept him likable.
The story this time felt slower, there was a lot of exposition to cover and that tended make the pace drag. It is all necessary, just a bit slower than I usually like. It all comes together in the end. The last quarter of the book really picked up considerably. It is all worth it when all those little details come together to bring up the big finish. So many subplots made it almost impossible to guess how things would turn out! Again, love that surprise!
I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by James Robert Killavey, who did such a great job on the first book. He has a real feel for all the characters and the idiosyncrasies that make them up. He manages to match Jack beautifully and keeps him annoying with his grating tones. He has a great pace in his read that helps move the story along at slower moments. Really fantastic combination of reader and story!!
Overall, I enjoyed this modern retelling of the Jack Frost myth and the way it connects with the first book. Beautiful storytelling that surprises and delights at every turn. I have been enchanted by these books and definitely plan to check out other works by this inventive author!
December 25, 2013
If you like the odd, the adventurous, the sci-fi world of magical beings, then this book is for you.
~~~~~~
Sura takes a job at Frost Plantation.
She will meet Mr. Frost, who’s love of Christmas is obsessive, after all he invented Christmas, didn’t he?
Sura will find the love of her life and the home she has longed for.
She will also meet Jack, who is the opposite of Mr. Frost. Jack hates Christmas.
~~~~~~
A Christmas story so unusual, it makes the Grinch seem like child’s play.
The world building and character descriptions will have your mind working overtime trying to envision them. Tony Bertauski’s imagination knows no bounds as he takes me on a magical, sci-fi adventure after the downfall of the North Pole.
There is a love story, but to me that was just the icing on the cake. Jack is the cake.
Elves in South Carolina? Impossible? If you saw a round blue guy, what would you think?
I love a “guy” that I love to hate and Jack fits that bill to a T.
I wanted to laugh and cry with Jack, when I could get over the fact that he was a total asswipe. I felt bad for him and then I wanted to slap him up side the head. Jack didn’t have visions of sugar plums, but there were reindeer and a jolly fat man dancing in his head. The sun was so hot, but his memories were of white, fluffy snow and ice cold temperatures. He was not a pleasant “person” to be around. All that being said, I have to say that I liked Jack. The things he went through as he came “alive” made me root for him, encouraging him to hang in there, things will get better, won’t they?
I was confused for a while, trying to figure out what in the hell happened after all the badness at the North Pole, but as it came together I was even more surprised. This book is darker than Claus, but every bit as entertaining to read.
I love a surprise at the end, and Tony left me screaming for more!
When Tony says, “I’d rather sail a boat than climb a mountain”, I smiled, nodded my head and said to myself, “I’m with you Tony.”
I received this book from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Tony Bertauski
~~~~~~
Sura takes a job at Frost Plantation.
She will meet Mr. Frost, who’s love of Christmas is obsessive, after all he invented Christmas, didn’t he?
Sura will find the love of her life and the home she has longed for.
She will also meet Jack, who is the opposite of Mr. Frost. Jack hates Christmas.
~~~~~~
A Christmas story so unusual, it makes the Grinch seem like child’s play.
The world building and character descriptions will have your mind working overtime trying to envision them. Tony Bertauski’s imagination knows no bounds as he takes me on a magical, sci-fi adventure after the downfall of the North Pole.
There is a love story, but to me that was just the icing on the cake. Jack is the cake.
Elves in South Carolina? Impossible? If you saw a round blue guy, what would you think?
I love a “guy” that I love to hate and Jack fits that bill to a T.
I wanted to laugh and cry with Jack, when I could get over the fact that he was a total asswipe. I felt bad for him and then I wanted to slap him up side the head. Jack didn’t have visions of sugar plums, but there were reindeer and a jolly fat man dancing in his head. The sun was so hot, but his memories were of white, fluffy snow and ice cold temperatures. He was not a pleasant “person” to be around. All that being said, I have to say that I liked Jack. The things he went through as he came “alive” made me root for him, encouraging him to hang in there, things will get better, won’t they?
I was confused for a while, trying to figure out what in the hell happened after all the badness at the North Pole, but as it came together I was even more surprised. This book is darker than Claus, but every bit as entertaining to read.
I love a surprise at the end, and Tony left me screaming for more!
When Tony says, “I’d rather sail a boat than climb a mountain”, I smiled, nodded my head and said to myself, “I’m with you Tony.”
I received this book from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Tony Bertauski
October 23, 2013
I had already read Tony's book CLAUS, so when he emailed and asked if I wanted a free copy of JACK and wanted to review it, I jumped at the chance. While reading, I have to admit that I was confused a lot in the first part of the book; but I like that "Agatha Christie" way he writes. I had to jump back to the prologue and different parts to make sure it was okay to be confused. And, if like me you enjoy a different type of story, I highly recommend JACK. Just so you know this is not traditional Christmas-story Jack Frost and if you want that, then you may not enjoy this book. When I write reviews, I don't summarize as many other people do that. I write my opinion. This book was hard to put down and I read it in a few days. The characters are so crisp and even though you believe some are the "bad guys," you somehow root for them. At several points I thought it was time travel because two characters confused me but it all came together in the end. This story could be categorized Science Fiction but I saw it as a Fantasy. The futuristic plots made it interesting to think about and it was rather funny to see ancient characters using modern language since the story was set in modern times. Without trying to give too much away, I believe that the IPAD "copycat" situation and today's technological toys was a cool touch. That part of the book will make you think about how addicted, and somehow vulnerable, we are all with all our devices. I look forward to more stories from this author.
August 9, 2016
[I got a copy through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
However, that was a few months ago—I totally missed the Archiving deadline—so I don't know if my copy is actually an ARC, or if it's exactly the same as the one that was officially published. Apologies for my taking so long to reading the book.]
Rating this book is hard. I read other works by this author, and liked them a lot, but somehow, this one didn't elicit the same response from me. (I also preferred the first book in this series, Claus.)
There were beautiful things in this story, some of them in their sadness (Frost's part, Sura), some comical, some that were both (Jack's time among the humans, their instant rejection and his subsequent obnoxious ways). The plot itself also spins a very particular tale, and if you haven't read Claus, then you're going to miss on several details and connections.
I guess the main problem for me was that I felt disconnected from the characters, and would have wanted to get to know them more, "walk" with them some more—especially for the last 20%, when light is shed on several aspects of the plan. Perhaps I also wanted Sura and Joe to play more of a part in it? It's hard to tell, but it made me feel frustrated.
On the writing side, I noticed a few jarring tense shifts now and then. However, as I said, I don't know if my copy was the final release, or an ARC, so those may not remain in the published product.
However, that was a few months ago—I totally missed the Archiving deadline—so I don't know if my copy is actually an ARC, or if it's exactly the same as the one that was officially published. Apologies for my taking so long to reading the book.]
Rating this book is hard. I read other works by this author, and liked them a lot, but somehow, this one didn't elicit the same response from me. (I also preferred the first book in this series, Claus.)
There were beautiful things in this story, some of them in their sadness (Frost's part, Sura), some comical, some that were both (Jack's time among the humans, their instant rejection and his subsequent obnoxious ways). The plot itself also spins a very particular tale, and if you haven't read Claus, then you're going to miss on several details and connections.
I guess the main problem for me was that I felt disconnected from the characters, and would have wanted to get to know them more, "walk" with them some more—especially for the last 20%, when light is shed on several aspects of the plan. Perhaps I also wanted Sura and Joe to play more of a part in it? It's hard to tell, but it made me feel frustrated.
On the writing side, I noticed a few jarring tense shifts now and then. However, as I said, I don't know if my copy was the final release, or an ARC, so those may not remain in the published product.
January 6, 2014
Jack: The Tale of Frost is a sequel to Claus: Legend of a Fat Man. It picks up the story after the first one ended but with a different set of main characters. The story was easy to follow along with and melded quite well with the first one. Who would think that by the end you want to root for the bad guy? I heard that there was going to be a third story to the series and it is one I will definitely keep my eyes out for.
January 15, 2022
I'm glad that I read this book.
Some time ago, I read a short story from the Claus universe and really enjoyed the fun and festive vibe. I quickly read book 1 in the Claus series, and was surprised, and, to a certain degree, disappointed by how different it was. Instead of the colourful imagery and festive feel, it was a quite intense science fiction power struggle - not what I expected at all.
This book, although standalone, details Jack Frost, his past, and what became of him after his feud with 'The Fatman'. Although in the same vein as book 1, I definitely warmed to this story (bad pun intended). The characters are well written, there are some good visual descriptions of experiments / equipment, and places visited, and everything gels together nicely. The range of feelings and the way that perspectives change throughout is nicely portrayed and, although this is somewhat slow paced, it never gets boring to read. The way that characters discover things about themselves and people that they thought they knew is fascinating to read, giving you a feeling of multiple realities. You can put yourself in the place of certain characters and think, 'how would you deal with finding something like that out'?
There are some great ideas here, and I'm certainly going to continue with this series now (later in the year), starting with re reading book 1, now that I've got a feel for how this series is written.
A series for fans of gadgets, experiments and an alternative take on your festive favourites, but with a slightly darker, less jolly perspective.
Some time ago, I read a short story from the Claus universe and really enjoyed the fun and festive vibe. I quickly read book 1 in the Claus series, and was surprised, and, to a certain degree, disappointed by how different it was. Instead of the colourful imagery and festive feel, it was a quite intense science fiction power struggle - not what I expected at all.
This book, although standalone, details Jack Frost, his past, and what became of him after his feud with 'The Fatman'. Although in the same vein as book 1, I definitely warmed to this story (bad pun intended). The characters are well written, there are some good visual descriptions of experiments / equipment, and places visited, and everything gels together nicely. The range of feelings and the way that perspectives change throughout is nicely portrayed and, although this is somewhat slow paced, it never gets boring to read. The way that characters discover things about themselves and people that they thought they knew is fascinating to read, giving you a feeling of multiple realities. You can put yourself in the place of certain characters and think, 'how would you deal with finding something like that out'?
There are some great ideas here, and I'm certainly going to continue with this series now (later in the year), starting with re reading book 1, now that I've got a feel for how this series is written.
A series for fans of gadgets, experiments and an alternative take on your festive favourites, but with a slightly darker, less jolly perspective.
April 21, 2024
Interesting twist on Jack Frost.
I found this second installment to be slow taking off and more fast paced near the end. The author’s take on Jack Frost was different and very interesting. Mr. Bertauski certainly has a vivid imagination and I’m here for it. Already have the third book downloaded. Loving the sci-fi view of Christmas stories.
I found this second installment to be slow taking off and more fast paced near the end. The author’s take on Jack Frost was different and very interesting. Mr. Bertauski certainly has a vivid imagination and I’m here for it. Already have the third book downloaded. Loving the sci-fi view of Christmas stories.
January 8, 2023
Jack: The Tale of Frost is the sequel to last year’s Claus: Legend of the Fat Man and is honestly probably even better. Maybe that’s because this one focuses on my favorite character from the first, Jack. Jack is… Jack reminds me of Loki, really. And I honestly mean that as a compliment.
Mr. Frost is a mysterious elven living in South Carolina. He employs a small group of people and a whole mess of helpers, and the novel begins when his newest recruit, Sura, shows up at the plantation for her first day of work. She meets Joe, to whom she feels an unexplainable attraction. Meanwhile, simultaneously, we hear of Jack, who’s living in a homeless shelter.
This is really more Sura’s story than any other characters, though that doesn’t mean that the other characters didn’t have a lot of personality. The director of the homeless shelter, for instance, even though he wasn’t one of the main characters, had a lot of personality for the time he had on the page.
I couldn’t read this as a mystery. It was kind of funny, because I didn’t keep turning pages to see what happened next. It’s pretty easy to figure out. I kept turning pages because I got sucked in. I wanted to see how it would all play out, and what exactly would happen with Sura and company. It was a really well-written book.
I don’t necessarily know that you’d have to read Claus to enjoy this one, but I feel like knowing what happened in Claus really enhanced this story. This isn’t really a feel-good type of Christmas story where Scrooge finally learns to love by watching Tiny Tim or whatever. There are traditional Christmas elements, sure. But this is a Christmas story in the same way that Die Hard is a Christmas movie (it happens to be my favorite. It has a Christmas tree, it counts).
The ending of this book was kind of horrifying and very well done. It made me think. And it made me wonder. The plot element aside, I was impressed with the author’s ability to take all of the loose threads (and it seemed like there were many!) and tie them all up in the end. I read this quickly, but it wasn’t a book I could have skimmed through and still understood.
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion and that didn’t influence my review in any way. There were some typos in my copy, but I was warned about that in advance, and for that reason was able to look past them and still enjoy the story.
Mr. Frost is a mysterious elven living in South Carolina. He employs a small group of people and a whole mess of helpers, and the novel begins when his newest recruit, Sura, shows up at the plantation for her first day of work. She meets Joe, to whom she feels an unexplainable attraction. Meanwhile, simultaneously, we hear of Jack, who’s living in a homeless shelter.
This is really more Sura’s story than any other characters, though that doesn’t mean that the other characters didn’t have a lot of personality. The director of the homeless shelter, for instance, even though he wasn’t one of the main characters, had a lot of personality for the time he had on the page.
I couldn’t read this as a mystery. It was kind of funny, because I didn’t keep turning pages to see what happened next. It’s pretty easy to figure out. I kept turning pages because I got sucked in. I wanted to see how it would all play out, and what exactly would happen with Sura and company. It was a really well-written book.
I don’t necessarily know that you’d have to read Claus to enjoy this one, but I feel like knowing what happened in Claus really enhanced this story. This isn’t really a feel-good type of Christmas story where Scrooge finally learns to love by watching Tiny Tim or whatever. There are traditional Christmas elements, sure. But this is a Christmas story in the same way that Die Hard is a Christmas movie (it happens to be my favorite. It has a Christmas tree, it counts).
The ending of this book was kind of horrifying and very well done. It made me think. And it made me wonder. The plot element aside, I was impressed with the author’s ability to take all of the loose threads (and it seemed like there were many!) and tie them all up in the end. I read this quickly, but it wasn’t a book I could have skimmed through and still understood.
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion and that didn’t influence my review in any way. There were some typos in my copy, but I was warned about that in advance, and for that reason was able to look past them and still enjoy the story.
November 8, 2013
I think I love this book even more than the original! If you don't remember, last year I reviewed Claus: Legend of the Fat Man. It was a good book, so when Tony asked me if I would review the sequel, I said yes immediately!
While this book is a sequel, you could probably read it as a standalone. It definitely makes more sense (especially when it comes to character motivations) if you know what went on in the first book, but since there are new characters and new protagonists, you can still figure out what's going on.
Jack: The Tale of Frost stars not Jack (not really), but Sula, a girl who has some sort of connection with the Frost plantation. This year, she starts to work for Mr. Frost, who tells her that his name is not Jack. She also meets Joe, a boy working at the plantation that she feels an instantaneous connection with.
At the same time, we as the reader find out that Mr Frost is actually Pawn, Jack's only friend. He's been forced to bring Jack back to life via a clone and he's very close to succeeding. And when he does, humanity can say goodbye to the earth. But, one of the Jacks escaped and is living as a very strange homeless person (since he only has 10% of his memories).
For me, my favourite character turned out to be Jack. This is pretty ironic since he's the villain of the first book. But Jack as a partially amnesic, very strange homeless person trying to find Santa Claus (because he knows that he's from the North Pole, but not why he's in South Carolina), Jack is surprisingly sympathetic. I think he's given the chance to learn and to develop more in this book, and it was a very good choice. Plus, with only 10% of his memories, more of Jack's character comes out - he's still mean, but he's also lonely and the need for acceptance is amplified.
Sula and Joe are both interesting characters, and I like how their backstory tied into the plot of the book. I don't think I can say too much without giving away spoilers, so I shan't.
If you read the first book and liked it, you should definitely read this book. And if you're looking for a Christmas story that's different from most, this is the book for you too!
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted to Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
While this book is a sequel, you could probably read it as a standalone. It definitely makes more sense (especially when it comes to character motivations) if you know what went on in the first book, but since there are new characters and new protagonists, you can still figure out what's going on.
Jack: The Tale of Frost stars not Jack (not really), but Sula, a girl who has some sort of connection with the Frost plantation. This year, she starts to work for Mr. Frost, who tells her that his name is not Jack. She also meets Joe, a boy working at the plantation that she feels an instantaneous connection with.
At the same time, we as the reader find out that Mr Frost is actually Pawn, Jack's only friend. He's been forced to bring Jack back to life via a clone and he's very close to succeeding. And when he does, humanity can say goodbye to the earth. But, one of the Jacks escaped and is living as a very strange homeless person (since he only has 10% of his memories).
For me, my favourite character turned out to be Jack. This is pretty ironic since he's the villain of the first book. But Jack as a partially amnesic, very strange homeless person trying to find Santa Claus (because he knows that he's from the North Pole, but not why he's in South Carolina), Jack is surprisingly sympathetic. I think he's given the chance to learn and to develop more in this book, and it was a very good choice. Plus, with only 10% of his memories, more of Jack's character comes out - he's still mean, but he's also lonely and the need for acceptance is amplified.
Sula and Joe are both interesting characters, and I like how their backstory tied into the plot of the book. I don't think I can say too much without giving away spoilers, so I shan't.
If you read the first book and liked it, you should definitely read this book. And if you're looking for a Christmas story that's different from most, this is the book for you too!
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted to Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
December 31, 2013
First of all, I love that this is not a traditional sequel – it takes places roughly 200 years after Claus. While you don’t have to read Claus in order to enjoy this book, I would definitely recommend it. This book has a different feel to it than Claus did, it has a touch more of sci-fi than the winter-wonderland-fantasy of Claus.
I really like how Jack is there and clearly the focus of the story, but not really. I know that makes no sense, it is something you will understand when you read the book. I also like that Mr. Frost has grown so much since his appearance in Claus. The new characters are likable, but I felt like I didn't get to know them in the same way that I got to know the characters in Clause. At first I thought this was a negative, however, after some thinking, I realized that this is essential to the plot of the story because the characters (mostly Sura and Joe) are trying to get to know themselves and each other, all at the same time they are trying to make sense of what is going on at the plantation. By the way, once all of the pieces were in place and I understood what was happening at the plantation, I was quite creeped out (Tony has quite the knack for inserting the perfect amount of creepy so his reader stays fascinated).
This wasn’t a keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense type of mystery, but more of an engaging mystery where I was truly curious about what would happen next. Overall, I really enjoyed it.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review through the Making Connections YA Edition https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I really like how Jack is there and clearly the focus of the story, but not really. I know that makes no sense, it is something you will understand when you read the book. I also like that Mr. Frost has grown so much since his appearance in Claus. The new characters are likable, but I felt like I didn't get to know them in the same way that I got to know the characters in Clause. At first I thought this was a negative, however, after some thinking, I realized that this is essential to the plot of the story because the characters (mostly Sura and Joe) are trying to get to know themselves and each other, all at the same time they are trying to make sense of what is going on at the plantation. By the way, once all of the pieces were in place and I understood what was happening at the plantation, I was quite creeped out (Tony has quite the knack for inserting the perfect amount of creepy so his reader stays fascinated).
This wasn’t a keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense type of mystery, but more of an engaging mystery where I was truly curious about what would happen next. Overall, I really enjoyed it.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review through the Making Connections YA Edition https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
December 20, 2013
I received a copy of this ebook for review from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Last year I read Claus: Legend of the Fat Man about this time of year, and found it an interesting take on the Santa Claus mythos. The author has done even more with the idea in Jack: The tale of Frost. Instead of focusing on the elven culture of the North Pole, we take a look at the elven Pawn, now going by Mr. Frost, in South Carolina. He has built an estate, underneath which is a toy factory, churning out toys and presents for Christmas, building a fortune on the commercialization of the holiday. But with the profits, he's working on a secret project, a project that has, quite surprisingly, escaped.
Then we have Sura, a 16-year-old girl at a local high school who recently lost her mother. She gets a job working a few hours after school at Mr. Frost's estate, specifically helping in the house and grounds. But on those grounds, she meets a guy about her age who seems just as interested in her as she is in him. But her resemblance to her mother and his to his father is beyond normal, and there is something more than just your average genetics going on.
There are a lot of characters to this story, and each of them have a personality - it's definitely interesting to see all the interactions. Everything felt real, which was great. It is such a strange story, and I found it fascinating. The story moves quickly, and is definitely a fast read.
I would definitely recommend this story, especially as a holiday read.
Last year I read Claus: Legend of the Fat Man about this time of year, and found it an interesting take on the Santa Claus mythos. The author has done even more with the idea in Jack: The tale of Frost. Instead of focusing on the elven culture of the North Pole, we take a look at the elven Pawn, now going by Mr. Frost, in South Carolina. He has built an estate, underneath which is a toy factory, churning out toys and presents for Christmas, building a fortune on the commercialization of the holiday. But with the profits, he's working on a secret project, a project that has, quite surprisingly, escaped.
Then we have Sura, a 16-year-old girl at a local high school who recently lost her mother. She gets a job working a few hours after school at Mr. Frost's estate, specifically helping in the house and grounds. But on those grounds, she meets a guy about her age who seems just as interested in her as she is in him. But her resemblance to her mother and his to his father is beyond normal, and there is something more than just your average genetics going on.
There are a lot of characters to this story, and each of them have a personality - it's definitely interesting to see all the interactions. Everything felt real, which was great. It is such a strange story, and I found it fascinating. The story moves quickly, and is definitely a fast read.
I would definitely recommend this story, especially as a holiday read.
January 3, 2014
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy this book. As with Mr. Bertauski’s other books that I have read, they are not my “usual” genre but I wouldn’t miss them. This one was no different – a fun, interesting, different read that had me hooked.
This series of books is fascinating. It gives us an alternate take on the men — legends — we know. I’m not sure how Mr. Bertauski came up with this world of elven, Claus, Jack, and their advances and influences on Christmas but it is a wonderful world that makes you think. It is a world that is easy to get lost in.
This is a tough review to write because I really don’t want to give anything away. Jack is a sad little man. I felt for him. Mr. Frost is a kind man who wants to change the course of things. Freeda is not a favorite. Templeton is surly but has a purpose, one I did not see coming. Sura and Joe were interesting, unexpected additions to this world. If I go on about all that is revealed and done, then I will spoil the book.
So, I will leave it at this: It’s a good read. Try it.
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book, especially if you read Claus: Legend of the Fat Man.
Will I read it again: I don’t think so. But I definitely want to read the rest of the Claus series.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/01/re...
This series of books is fascinating. It gives us an alternate take on the men — legends — we know. I’m not sure how Mr. Bertauski came up with this world of elven, Claus, Jack, and their advances and influences on Christmas but it is a wonderful world that makes you think. It is a world that is easy to get lost in.
This is a tough review to write because I really don’t want to give anything away. Jack is a sad little man. I felt for him. Mr. Frost is a kind man who wants to change the course of things. Freeda is not a favorite. Templeton is surly but has a purpose, one I did not see coming. Sura and Joe were interesting, unexpected additions to this world. If I go on about all that is revealed and done, then I will spoil the book.
So, I will leave it at this: It’s a good read. Try it.
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book, especially if you read Claus: Legend of the Fat Man.
Will I read it again: I don’t think so. But I definitely want to read the rest of the Claus series.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/01/re...
November 11, 2013
This is going to be a very hard review to write. I have been eagerly anticipating this book every since I read Claus: Legend of the Fat Man earlier this year. Claus was easily one of my favorite reads of the year, so I was expecting a lot from this book. Sadly I did not quite find what I was hoping for. Where Claus had amazing world building with so much detail that I was totally immersed in the story, I felt that Jack lacked those exact things. I was able to fill in some gaps because I had read Claus (which in my opinion is a necessity before you read Jack) but I just did not feel like I was being drawn in like I had been while reading Claus. I don't feel like I really got to know any of the characters well enough to connect to them. I almost feel like I was just getting a glimpse into Mr. Frost's life, whereas I wanted to be a part of it. I wanted to get to know May, Templeton, Jonah, Joe and Sura. I wanted to be a part of Frost's plan, not just see the end result of it. I wanted more! This will not deter me from reading the next installment -- Frosty: Journey of a Snowman, but I do hope that Tony gives us more of what I so loved about Claus -- all those wonderful little details that made me believe that the world that he created on the North Pole could exist and could be the basis for our modern day beliefs in Santa Claus.
January 13, 2014
Sure, Jack wants to kill all humans...but that's only one part of him.
This follow up to Claus: Legend of the Fat Man, is set hundreds of years past the events that first introduced us to Jack and Claus. This one is set in current times and I enjoyed the book even more because of that aspect.
As the title suggests, it deals strictly with Jack and his current exploits, but it also gives us some more back story on Jack and Claus. I'm going to give spoilers away here, but a plan Jack set in motion hundreds of years ago is carried out to fruition in this story.
The character of Jack is just really well written. His early interactions with humans beings (when he is covered with green "hair") is incredibly captivating. Some of the more rude and simply oblivious things Jack says to the people trying to help him had me laughing my head off. Jack knows how to be snarky, even if he might not understand that he is being snarky.
I think that's why i like the character so much. He was bullied for a long time for being different and then went a little crazy (okay, a lot crazy) but he still has shades of "good" inside him. Even at the end, he still liked Willie.
I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us in the third installment.
This series is incredibly unique and very refreshing. I highly recommend it.
This follow up to Claus: Legend of the Fat Man, is set hundreds of years past the events that first introduced us to Jack and Claus. This one is set in current times and I enjoyed the book even more because of that aspect.
As the title suggests, it deals strictly with Jack and his current exploits, but it also gives us some more back story on Jack and Claus. I'm going to give spoilers away here, but a plan Jack set in motion hundreds of years ago is carried out to fruition in this story.
The character of Jack is just really well written. His early interactions with humans beings (when he is covered with green "hair") is incredibly captivating. Some of the more rude and simply oblivious things Jack says to the people trying to help him had me laughing my head off. Jack knows how to be snarky, even if he might not understand that he is being snarky.
I think that's why i like the character so much. He was bullied for a long time for being different and then went a little crazy (okay, a lot crazy) but he still has shades of "good" inside him. Even at the end, he still liked Willie.
I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us in the third installment.
This series is incredibly unique and very refreshing. I highly recommend it.
December 16, 2013
I liked Jack – it’s plain and simple. Jack was not totally there, I mean he was cloned and when they cloned him they didn’t give him all of his memories so he was searching for answers. Jack was determined to find out where he belonged and what had happened to him and in the end well, I can’t tell you what happened but I am glad I rooted for him because the conclusion was incredible. Not your traditional Christmas story, Jack: The Tale of Frost is more of a science fiction tale with elven and some technical advances that not your typical Santa Claus can pull out of his magic sack. A bit confused in the beginning of the book by the middle of the book, I got into the flow and was feeling frustrated as Jack tried to understand his dilemma. As Mr. Frost tries to control his surroundings and Sura and Joe find their place, I tried to quicken my pace so I could put the players in their proper place….like I had that much control. As the temperature dropped in Mr. Frost’s underground chambers, I grab my blanket and settle into an afternoon of cold twisted drama. Thank you Tony for sending me a copy of this book to review.
January 23, 2014
This sequel to Claus continues Jack's story in an unusual manner. Pawn has become Mr. Frost, driven from the North Pole by a programmed compulsion that controls his actions for the next 200 years. He builds a commercial toy empire in South Carolina while perfecting cloning technology. The goal is to bring back Jack.
I didn't much like Jack. I felt some sympathy for him throughout the first book; this time I felt that only at the end of the story. I liked Frost/Pawn much better. He really wasn't a pawn after all, and proved to be pretty shrewd. I enjoyed all of the characters, but the helpers were my favorite, even though I pictured them as concrete yard gnomes. Christmas has no magic here at all. I liked the well-deserved pokes at the commercial profit-making holiday machine. I also liked that Frost put some of the magic back in the holiday in the end, and found his family after all.
This is a complex story, one that's really more about people and family than technology. It's interesting and fun reading.
I didn't much like Jack. I felt some sympathy for him throughout the first book; this time I felt that only at the end of the story. I liked Frost/Pawn much better. He really wasn't a pawn after all, and proved to be pretty shrewd. I enjoyed all of the characters, but the helpers were my favorite, even though I pictured them as concrete yard gnomes. Christmas has no magic here at all. I liked the well-deserved pokes at the commercial profit-making holiday machine. I also liked that Frost put some of the magic back in the holiday in the end, and found his family after all.
This is a complex story, one that's really more about people and family than technology. It's interesting and fun reading.
December 27, 2013
One should definitely read "Claus - Legend of the Fat Man" first! This wouldn't make much sense otherwise.
I really liked both books and am looking forward to the book about Frosty.
Without giving too much away, this book focuses on a mysterious estate in South Carolina that was established shortly after the deaths of Jack, Claus, and their mother and the subsequent reconcilliation of the two elven factions at the end of the first book. The estate is owned by Mr. Frost. He is not Jack, but we don't really find out who he is for a while. We are brought into the estate via a teenaged girl, who has just started working on the estate, following the death if her single mother, who had worked there all of her life. We see some things from her point of view and some from Mr. Frost's. During the course of the story, we kind of see the where the story of the Grinch is supposed to come from and how tiny, toy-making elves originate. This is a fun read!
I really liked both books and am looking forward to the book about Frosty.
Without giving too much away, this book focuses on a mysterious estate in South Carolina that was established shortly after the deaths of Jack, Claus, and their mother and the subsequent reconcilliation of the two elven factions at the end of the first book. The estate is owned by Mr. Frost. He is not Jack, but we don't really find out who he is for a while. We are brought into the estate via a teenaged girl, who has just started working on the estate, following the death if her single mother, who had worked there all of her life. We see some things from her point of view and some from Mr. Frost's. During the course of the story, we kind of see the where the story of the Grinch is supposed to come from and how tiny, toy-making elves originate. This is a fun read!
December 18, 2013
Tony has done it again, this time taking the "Tale of Jack Frost" and making it his own. A Sci-fi Christmas delight of brilliant work.
Cloning, What's going on at the Frost Plantation. Christmas liked a little too much, but Jack who hates Christmas has been missing for years and now he back and wants revenge. But does he really want to end it all?
If you read Claus then you know what you are in for. An imaginative twist on the Christmas Tale we all watched as kids. And part 3 is coming soon..... oh boy!
Cloning, What's going on at the Frost Plantation. Christmas liked a little too much, but Jack who hates Christmas has been missing for years and now he back and wants revenge. But does he really want to end it all?
If you read Claus then you know what you are in for. An imaginative twist on the Christmas Tale we all watched as kids. And part 3 is coming soon..... oh boy!
October 21, 2013
Jack The Tale of Frost is a pretty fun sequel to Claus: Legend of the Fat Man. This time the story is set roughly 200 years after the events of CLAUS. I really enjoyed how Tony Bertauski was able to create this story arc in connection with that from the previous book. Jack the Tale of Frost kept me interested pretty much from start to finish and I really liked how it ended.
Can't wait for the next story in this "universe".
Can't wait for the next story in this "universe".
October 31, 2013
Oh my gosh this book was amazing. Thank you Tony for the advanced copy. This books had every genre imaginable and more. It read like a movie, vividly describing everything in such clear details. The plot was perfect with lots of humor, suspense and romance. I couldn't ask for a better book. Tony you just keep getting better and better. Readers please consider picking this book up as soon as possible. Parents read it to your children.
November 19, 2013
Second in the series, this book was AWESOME. As with Claus: Legend of the Fat Man, the beginning was very odd to me. I had my speculations, but I was off. WAY off. When you start reading this book the beginning might seem too odd or it might seem a little slow to you. Keep with it. The ending was fabulous. Not one that I would have guessed.
I love books that keep me guessing! This is not a horror or a thriller. It's a story with twists and turns that will keep you on your toes! :)
I love books that keep me guessing! This is not a horror or a thriller. It's a story with twists and turns that will keep you on your toes! :)
December 13, 2013
Just finished reading this in time for the Holiday. I would recommend this book.The first book gives good insights to Jack and the Elven, however, there really is no need to read the first one if you don't want to.
It's very well written and full details, the characters are easily likeable, including Jack. I love how Tony was able to write it in modern times but far enough from populations that it was easy to get lost in the plantation's problems.
It's very well written and full details, the characters are easily likeable, including Jack. I love how Tony was able to write it in modern times but far enough from populations that it was easy to get lost in the plantation's problems.
May 4, 2014
I truly enjoyed this book, and the continuing story of Pawn & Jack. This is a different take on fairy tale like stories, and has an entirely different vibe than children's stories. I found this one to be just as interesting as 'Claus: Legend of the Fat Man'. In my opinion, Tony Bertauski is a talented author. He delivers interesting & intriguing stories, and they grab your attention (and hold it) when reading his work.
December 22, 2013
I can't figure out if I liked this one or Claus better. These are amazing books with a darker side to them. The story line kept me guessing and I even skipped my TV shows to read these. One minute, you hate Jack, then the next, you feel bad for him. Little by little the story came out about the characters. I love Mr. Bertauski's style and can't wait to read more of his books.
October 28, 2013
Even better than Claus, although with a completely different feel, setting, and most of the characters. I love Tony Bertauski's style and how all of the characters are so endearing--you even root for the "bad guy". I can't wait to read more!
January 26, 2014
Terrific sequel! This book had me guessing how it would come out right up to the last page. Arguably better than the first book in the series, Claus: Legend of the Fatman. I sure hope there is a third installment in this series!
February 10, 2014
A riveting scifi/fantasy tale about the Jack Frost.
December 12, 2022
About 3 weeks ago I saw Claus, Legend of the Fat Man when I was browsing on Amazon looking for something a bit different, and this was different, in all the best ways. I loved it. When I had finished reading it I found the next book was this one Jack, The Tale Of Frost, so I ordered it straight away.
It has took e a couple of weeks to get around to reading due to a serious backlog of "Books To Be Read" (you all know the problem, right?), but once I started it that was it, I read it in two sittings.
Brilliant.
You don't have to have read Claus to be able to pick up this and enjoy it, though it may help with some of the characters, giving some background to Mr Frost and Jack himself. I am not going to fill you in here due to spoiling the plot.
Mr Frost, you don't need to know his first name, but this isn't Jack, just to get that straight. He owns The Plantation, which is where all the toys for Christmas are made by little people in brightly coloured hats, not eleves, but helpers. They are a jolly little bunch that work underground 24 hours a day every day of the years, singing along as they work. Awww Sweet, you may be thinking, not really they toys they are working on have a massive secret in them all, one which could bring the end of humanity.
In the middle of The Plantation is a huge tower, and Mr Frost lives and works at the top of the tower and has a lab in the basement of the tower. The temperature in the tower has to be cold, very very cold, and if he leaves the tower he wears a special cold suit that keeps his body temperature very low like -30 at least. This seems strange, and there are rumours around that Mr Frost is Elven, but obviously that is not true, because eleves do not exist do they? and if they did they wouldn't build their home, lab and factory in the middle of South Carolina, USA they are beings that live in the North Pole.
Sura is a 16 year old college student, she is motherless since her mum died quite recently and she never knew her father. She takes a part time job at The Plantation to help her pay her way through school and pay the rent on the home she shared with her mother, which is not much at all, a basic wooden building with very little in the way of furniture and nothing in the way of food in the cupboards. She meets Joe there, he is the same age and the son of the gardener and as the only two young people there they start to see more of each other and begin to fall in love. It is strange because she fell for him the very first time she set eyes on him and he with her. Love at first sight? or something more sinister?
Where does the titular Jack come into all this you may ask? Well this is where reading Claus first may help. He did originally live in the North Pole with his brother and his mother, but they all died together when they drowned in the icy sea. That is what was supposed but Jack managed to survive but he had lost his memory and when he was found washed up he had no idea who he was apart from his name was Jack, where he had come from, how he got there was way beyond him. He ends up living in a Homeless Shelter in the USA with all sorts of low life's and ex-cons. The person in charge of the Shelter - Will - takes pity on him and even sort of likes him in a funny way, more so because Jack is only 3 feet tall with size 27 feet, oh and he is covered in green hair, all over.
Jack however is a genius, and a multi millionaire with a hatred of warmbloods (humans to you and me) that goes back well over 400 years and he hasn't lost his memory he had kept his memories safe before the accident but of course doesn't know this straight away, these start trickling through slowly and when he realises what he thinks may have happened he knows he has to get to the Plantation before Christmas, and so begins his journey back to his memories.
There are many twists in this book, and it is written with so many layers that are interwoven just perfectly all pulled together at the end with a good tug at the thread.
I am hoping for a third book in this delicious, dark series
It has took e a couple of weeks to get around to reading due to a serious backlog of "Books To Be Read" (you all know the problem, right?), but once I started it that was it, I read it in two sittings.
Brilliant.
You don't have to have read Claus to be able to pick up this and enjoy it, though it may help with some of the characters, giving some background to Mr Frost and Jack himself. I am not going to fill you in here due to spoiling the plot.
Mr Frost, you don't need to know his first name, but this isn't Jack, just to get that straight. He owns The Plantation, which is where all the toys for Christmas are made by little people in brightly coloured hats, not eleves, but helpers. They are a jolly little bunch that work underground 24 hours a day every day of the years, singing along as they work. Awww Sweet, you may be thinking, not really they toys they are working on have a massive secret in them all, one which could bring the end of humanity.
In the middle of The Plantation is a huge tower, and Mr Frost lives and works at the top of the tower and has a lab in the basement of the tower. The temperature in the tower has to be cold, very very cold, and if he leaves the tower he wears a special cold suit that keeps his body temperature very low like -30 at least. This seems strange, and there are rumours around that Mr Frost is Elven, but obviously that is not true, because eleves do not exist do they? and if they did they wouldn't build their home, lab and factory in the middle of South Carolina, USA they are beings that live in the North Pole.
Sura is a 16 year old college student, she is motherless since her mum died quite recently and she never knew her father. She takes a part time job at The Plantation to help her pay her way through school and pay the rent on the home she shared with her mother, which is not much at all, a basic wooden building with very little in the way of furniture and nothing in the way of food in the cupboards. She meets Joe there, he is the same age and the son of the gardener and as the only two young people there they start to see more of each other and begin to fall in love. It is strange because she fell for him the very first time she set eyes on him and he with her. Love at first sight? or something more sinister?
Where does the titular Jack come into all this you may ask? Well this is where reading Claus first may help. He did originally live in the North Pole with his brother and his mother, but they all died together when they drowned in the icy sea. That is what was supposed but Jack managed to survive but he had lost his memory and when he was found washed up he had no idea who he was apart from his name was Jack, where he had come from, how he got there was way beyond him. He ends up living in a Homeless Shelter in the USA with all sorts of low life's and ex-cons. The person in charge of the Shelter - Will - takes pity on him and even sort of likes him in a funny way, more so because Jack is only 3 feet tall with size 27 feet, oh and he is covered in green hair, all over.
Jack however is a genius, and a multi millionaire with a hatred of warmbloods (humans to you and me) that goes back well over 400 years and he hasn't lost his memory he had kept his memories safe before the accident but of course doesn't know this straight away, these start trickling through slowly and when he realises what he thinks may have happened he knows he has to get to the Plantation before Christmas, and so begins his journey back to his memories.
There are many twists in this book, and it is written with so many layers that are interwoven just perfectly all pulled together at the end with a good tug at the thread.
I am hoping for a third book in this delicious, dark series
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