The Frozen Curse: The second title in this BREATHTAKING fantasy series

Journey to the very edge of the world in the second title in this INCREDIBLE fantasy adventure series. Perfect for fans of Skandar and Philip Pullman​

Oswin starts a second year in Tundra at the school for Ice Apprentices just as the Great Freeze threatens. He may have driven back the monsters but masters and pupils are disappearing and trees with monstrous faces seem to be on the attack. When Oswin fails a test, he's kicked out of the school for good. Tundra is running out of time and soon everyone will freeze to death . . .

'An extraordinary fantasy debut' A. F. Steadman on Ice Apprentices

“North's writing has verve!” The Observer "A page-turning fantasy adventure in a world of ice, dangerous beasts and magic. " Love Reading, debut of the month.

Praise for Ice Apprentices: ‘An enchanting debut, sparkling with adventure and magic.’ Natasha Hastings, author of The Miraculous Sweetmakers

‘Spine-tingling monsters, unlikely friendships and a hero to root for from page one. North's debut is bursting with adventure and vivid characterisation.’ Fran Gibbons, author of A Clock of Stars

‘Take me to Tundra! Jacob North has created a sparkling triumph of a world, with a hero readers will want to be best friends with. I loved it.’ Rachel Morrisroe, author of Felix and the Future Agency ‘I loved the Ice Apprentices - it's a thrilling adventure. The cast of characters leap off the page and pull you into a world rich in magic, monsters and the ever-present threat of the icy world they inhabit. Oswin is brave, curious and seeks to uncover the mysteries of his own past and the skills he has been born with. Such an exciting novel!' Nazima Pathan, author of Dream Hunters ​‘It has all the ingredients of a perfect middle grade fantasy – epic magic, brilliant monsters and a completely unforgettable new hero. Jacob’s a really exciting new writer and as soon as I finished the book I wanted to read more.’ Zohra Nabi, author of The Kingdom over the Sea ‘Chills and thrills in this fantasy epic that brims with frosty magic! We're in great hands with Oswin: fantasy's most exciting new hero.’ Alex Foulkes, author of Rules for Vampires

© 2026 Simon & Schuster Audio UK (Audiobook): 9781398533974

Release date

Audiobook: 15 January 2026