The Snow Queen

The Snow Queen
The Snow Queen is the fourth book in the Five Hundred Kingdoms series by acclaimed fantasy writer Mercedes Lackey. It was published in 2008 by Luna Harlequin.

Plot Synopsis
"Aleksia, Queen of the Northern Lights, is mysterious, beautiful and widely known to have a heart of ice. No one would seek her wisdom except as a last resort. But when she's falsely accused of unleashing evil on nearby villages, she realizes there's an impostor out there far more heartless than she could ever be. 

''And when a young warrior following the Tradition disappears, leaving his sweetheart and mother to fear the worst, Aleksia's powers are needed as never before. ''

Now, on a journey through a realm of perpetual winter, it will take all her skills, a mother's faith and a little magic to face down an enemy more formidable than any she has ever known."

Inspiration and Influences
In addition to the titular "Snow Queen" by Hans Christian Andersen, the book delves into the traditional tales of the Far North, from Inuit to Norse.

Connections to Other Books In the Series
The Fairy Godmother - Elena is a close friend of Aleksia, and speaks to her often via mirror to offer advice and counsel.

Fortune's Fool - Elena briefly mentions Led Belrus in suggesting to bring a Snow Maiden to Aleksia's Palace to keep her company.

Creatues, Characters and Other Oddities
Items

Dragon's Blood