20 best books on ice – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re someone who finds the world of ice fascinating, then you’re in for a treat! Whether you want to delve into the history of polar exploration, immerse yourself in thrilling tales of survival in icy landscapes, or simply learn more about the science behind this frozen phenomenon, there’s a book on ice out there for you. From gripping memoirs to stunning photography collections, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about ice that are sure to captivate your imagination and leave you craving for more!


The Ice at the End of the World

by Jon Gertner

The Ice at the End of the World: An Epic Journey into Greenland’s Buried Past and Our Perilous Future by Jon Gertner is a captivating journey into the heart of the frozen world. In this gripping narrative, Gertner takes readers on an extraordinary adventure through Greenland’s icy landscape, revealing the secrets buried within its frozen depths and shedding light on our planet’s precarious future.

Far more than just a book on ice, “The Ice at the End of the World” delves into the fascinating history of Arctic exploration, introducing us to the brave men and women who risked everything to uncover the mysteries of this icy realm. Gertner’s vivid storytelling transports us to a time when intrepid explorers faced unimaginable challenges in their quest for knowledge.

This book about ice explores not only the past, but also the present and future of Greenland’s ice sheet. Gertner reveals the staggering impact of climate change on this fragile ecosystem, painting a vivid picture of the devastating consequences that await us all if we fail to act. With a sense of urgency, he urges us to confront the reality of our changing world and to take decisive action to protect our planet.

Gertner’s prose is as brilliant and crystalline as the ice he writes about, drawing readers into a world of beauty, danger, and scientific discovery. Through his meticulous research and engaging storytelling, he brings the ice book to life, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the wonders of our planet and the urgent need to preserve them.

Prepare to be captivated by “The Ice at the End of the World” as it takes you on an awe-inspiring journey through the frozen landscapes of Greenland, leaving you with a profound understanding of the power of ice and the importance of safeguarding our planet’s future.

The Ice Museum: In Search of the Lost Land of Thule

by Joanna Kavenna

The Ice Museum: In Search of the Lost Land of Thule by Joanna Kavenna is a captivating exploration into the frozen realms of the Arctic. This extraordinary book on ice takes readers on a journey through history, mythology, and science to uncover the secrets of the enigmatic land of Thule.

Prepare to be immersed in a frozen wonderland as Kavenna delves into the rich tapestry of ice, using vivid descriptions and evocative storytelling to bring the icy landscapes to life. With each turn of the page, you’ll find yourself transported to a world of shimmering glaciers, sparkling icebergs, and ancient ice formations.

But this book about ice goes beyond its physical beauty. Kavenna weaves together a narrative that explores the cultural significance of ice, from the myths and legends surrounding Thule to the intrepid explorers who braved the frozen wilderness in search of knowledge and adventure.

From the haunting beauty of the Northern Lights to the eerie silence of the Arctic night, The Ice Museum captures the essence of this frozen realm in all its glory. Through its pages, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the power and fragility of ice, and the profound impact it has had on human civilization throughout history.

So if you’re looking for a captivating ice book that will transport you to a world of frozen wonders, look no further than The Ice Museum: In Search of the Lost Land of Thule. Get ready to embark on a mesmerizing journey through the icy depths of the Arctic, where mystery and beauty await at every turn.

The Ice Balloon: S. A. Andree and the Heroic Age of Arctic Exploration

by Alec Wilkinson

Alec Wilkinson’s The Ice Balloon is a captivating book on ice that delves into the extraordinary true story of S. A. Andree and the heroic age of Arctic exploration.

In this fascinating ice book, Wilkinson takes readers on a thrilling journey back to the late 19th century, when the world was captivated by the idea of conquering the Arctic. Andree, a Swedish engineer with a daring spirit, became obsessed with the idea of reaching the North Pole by balloon. With nothing but a small team and a grand vision, he set out to make this dream a reality.

The book chronicles Andree’s meticulous preparations, his ambitious plans, and the ultimate launch of his hot air balloon, aptly named ‘The Eagle’. Wilkinson’s vivid storytelling brings to life the harsh and unforgiving Arctic landscape, as well as the intrepid explorers who risked their lives in the pursuit of discovery.

The Ice Balloon is not just a book about ice, but a tale of courage, determination, and the human spirit. It explores the limits of human endurance and the price one is willing to pay for adventure. Wilkinson’s meticulous research and attention to detail make this book a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the history of exploration or the power of the Arctic wilderness.

So, if you’re looking for an ice book that will transport you to a time of great exploration and adventure, The Ice Balloon is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated by Andree’s audacious quest and the incredible story of his ill-fated Arctic expedition.

The Ice Child

by Camilla Läckberg

The Ice Child by Camilla Läckberg is a chilling thriller that will leave you breathless. This gripping book on ice takes readers on a bone-chilling journey through the frozen landscape of a small Swedish town. Läckberg expertly weaves a tale of suspense and mystery, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

In this icy tale, Läckberg explores the darkest corners of the human psyche, delving into the secrets and lies that lurk beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic community. As the snow-covered town becomes the backdrop for a series of gruesome crimes, the tension and suspense build, leaving readers guessing until the very last page.

The Ice Child is not just a book about ice, it is a heart-pounding thriller that will send shivers down your spine. Läckberg’s vivid descriptions of the icy landscape and bone-chilling atmosphere make the setting itself a character in the story. With her masterful storytelling and skillful character development, Läckberg creates a chilling tale that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

If you’re looking for an ice book that will keep you on the edge of your seat and have you guessing until the very end, then The Ice Child is the perfect choice. Prepare to be transported to a frozen world of secrets, lies, and suspense in this captivating thriller.

The Ice Twins

by S.K. Tremayne

Get ready to dive into a chilling world with The Ice Twins by S.K. Tremayne, a bone-chilling thriller that will leave you frozen in suspense. This gripping book is like a winter storm, complete with icy secrets and a haunting atmosphere that will send shivers down your spine.

In this psychological thriller, the story revolves around a family grappling with the devastating loss of one of their twin daughters, who tragically fell to her death. The surviving twin, Kirstie, is left scarred by the horrific event, haunted by guilt and struggling to come to terms with her sister’s absence. However, when the family decides to move to a remote Scottish island, little do they know that their journey is about to take an even darker turn.

As the family settles into their new home, they soon discover that the island holds its own chilling secrets. The isolation and eerie landscape create an atmosphere that mirrors the icy depths of the family’s grief. The tension builds as Kirstie’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, leaving her parents questioning their own sanity. Are they really seeing what they think they are? Or is the ice playing tricks on their minds?

The author skillfully weaves a web of suspense, using the icy setting as a metaphor for the frozen emotions and fractured relationships within the family. With twists and turns that will leave you breathless, The Ice Twins is a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

If you’re looking for a bone-chilling thriller that will leave you with a deep freeze of anticipation, then look no further than The Ice Twins. Prepare to be captivated by this chilling tale that will keep you guessing until the very end. It’s a book that will make you reach for a cozy blanket, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself feeling a chill even in the warmest of rooms. Dive into this icy world and let the suspense take hold!

The Ice Princess

by Camilla Läckberg

The Ice Princess by Camilla Läckberg is a chilling Scandinavian crime novel that will have you hooked from the very first page. Set in the icy backdrop of a small Swedish town, this book on ice delves into the mysterious death of a young woman who is found frozen in a bathtub. As the investigation unfolds, secrets buried beneath the frozen surface begin to surface, and a web of deceit and betrayal is slowly uncovered. With its captivating plot and icy atmosphere, this book about ice will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Ice Limit

by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

Get ready for a chilling adventure in the thrilling novel, The Ice Limit! This captivating book on ice by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child will transport you to the frozen depths of the Earth, where danger lurks at every turn.

Set aboard a state-of-the-art icebreaking ship, this book about ice takes you on a heart-pounding journey to extract a massive meteorite from the desolate reaches of the South American coast. The crew’s mission is fraught with peril as they navigate treacherous waters, battle against time, and encounter unforeseen obstacles.

But it’s not just the icy conditions that pose a threat. The authors skillfully weave a tale of suspense and mystery, as the crew soon realizes that the meteorite holds a secret of unimaginable power. As tensions rise and the crew’s lives hang in the balance, they must confront their own fears and push the limits of human endurance in order to survive.

This gripping ice book combines elements of science fiction, adventure, and thriller, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With their trademark blend of meticulous research and masterful storytelling, Preston and Child have crafted a tale that will captivate readers and leave them yearning for more.

So grab your parka and brace yourself for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the ice. The Ice Limit is a must-read for anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure that will chill you to the bone.

The Ice Beneath Her

by Camilla Grebe

The Ice Beneath Her: A Chilling Thriller

Step into a world where secrets freeze and suspense runs colder than ice. Camilla Grebe’s The Ice Beneath Her is a bone-chilling thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

This gripping novel introduces us to a haunting tale set in Stockholm, Sweden. A young woman is found brutally murdered, her body hidden beneath a layer of ice in a luxurious mansion. As the police investigate, they realize they are dealing with a killer who is as cunning as the frost itself.

The story unfolds through the eyes of three main characters: Detective Peter Lindgren, profiler Hanne Lagerlind-Schön, and Emma Bohman, a young woman who becomes entangled in the investigation. With each chapter, the tension builds, and the layers of deception become as thick as the ice that conceals the truth.

Grebe masterfully crafts a narrative that delves into the depths of human psychology, exploring themes of love, obsession, and the darkness that can lurk in even the coldest of hearts. As the characters’ lives intertwine, secrets are exposed, and the chilling truth begins to thaw.

This book on ice is not just a mere crime novel; it is a psychological rollercoaster that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew. With its atmospheric setting and complex characters, The Ice Beneath Her is a bone-chilling masterpiece that will keep you guessing until the very last page.

If you’re a fan of chilling thrillers, this book about ice is a must-read. Prepare to be swept away into a world where the frost bites deep and the truth lies frozen beneath the surface.

The Ice House

by Laura Lee Smith

The Ice House is a captivating novel that will transport you to the frosty depths of a small town. This mesmerizing book on ice will whisk you away to a world where frozen landscapes and icy hearts collide.

With its vivid prose and chilling atmosphere, this book about ice will leave you shivering with anticipation. Step into the frozen shoes of the characters as they navigate the frostbitten paths of their lives, revealing their deepest desires and darkest secrets.

Through the author’s skillful storytelling, you will feel the icy tendrils of suspense and intrigue curl around you. The ice book is a tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning each page to uncover the mysteries hidden beneath the frozen surface.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the icy beauty of this remarkable novel. Dive into the pages of The Ice House and let its enchanting story take hold of your imagination. This thrilling book on ice is an absolute must-read for those seeking a chilling and unforgettable literary experience.

The Ice Queen

by Alice Hoffman

The Ice Queen is a mesmerizing book on ice that will transport you to a frosty world of enchantment. Written by the talented Alice Hoffman, this captivating novel tells the story of a woman whose life becomes intertwined with the mystical power of ice and its chilling beauty.

In this extraordinary book about ice, Hoffman weaves a tale of self-discovery and redemption, as our protagonist grapples with the icy depths of her own heart. Set against a backdrop of winter landscapes and frozen lakes, the author’s lyrical prose captures the essence of the frozen world, evoking a sense of wonder and magic.

The ice book takes us on an emotional journey, exploring themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of nature. As the protagonist learns to embrace the cold, she discovers a hidden strength within herself, thawing the icy walls around her heart and discovering the beauty that lies beneath the surface.

With her exquisite storytelling and vivid imagery, Hoffman crafts a tale that will leave you spellbound. The book on ice is an exploration of the human spirit and the power of resilience, reminding us that even in the coldest of times, there is warmth and hope to be found.

So, if you’re looking for a breathtaking journey into a world of ice and enchantment, look no further than The Ice Queen. Let yourself be swept away by Hoffman’s exquisite prose and discover the magic that lies within this captivating book about ice.

The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street

by Susan Jane Gilman

The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street is a deliciously captivating tale that will have you craving more with every turn of the page. This mouthwatering novel is like a frosty treat for the soul, packed with adventure, hardship, and ambition.

In this extraordinary book on ice, Susan Jane Gilman takes us on a thrilling journey through the life of Lillian Dunkle, a feisty and determined young girl who rises from the depths of poverty to become the ice cream queen of America. But this is not just a book about ice; it’s a story of resilience, passion, and the pursuit of the American dream, sprinkled with the flavors of betrayal and redemption.

From the icy streets of New York City to the sweltering heat of Miami Beach, Lillian’s life is a rollercoaster ride of triumphs and tribulations. Along the way, she faces hardships as chilling as an arctic blast, but her indomitable spirit and cunning wit keep her going.

This ice book will transport you to a world where dreams are as fragile as a snowflake, yet as enduring as an iceberg. It will make you laugh, cry, and crave a scoop of your favorite flavor as you follow Lillian’s incredible journey. Whether you’re a fan of ice cream or not, this book about ice is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the frozen delights we often take for granted.

So grab a cone, find a cozy spot, and prepare to be swept away by The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street. It’s an ice book that will leave you feeling chilled to the bone, yet warmed by the power of the human spirit.

The Ice Child

by Elizabeth McGregor

The Ice Child by Elizabeth McGregor is a captivating book on ice that will transport you to a frozen world filled with mystery and intrigue.

Set in the icy wilderness of Alaska, this book about ice follows the journey of Emma, a young woman who finds herself drawn to the chilling beauty and secrets hidden within the glaciers.

As Emma embarks on a treacherous expedition to study the ice, she uncovers a shocking discovery that could change everything she thought she knew about the frozen landscape. With each page, the tension builds, and the reader is left on the edge of their seat, eagerly turning to the next chapter in this thrilling ice book.

McGregor’s vivid descriptions bring the icy world to life, making the reader feel as if they are stepping onto the frozen tundra themselves. The author’s meticulous research shines through, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the story.

If you’re looking for a captivating read that will transport you to a world of frozen wonder, then The Ice Child is the perfect choice. Get ready to immerse yourself in an ice-cold adventure like no other.

The Ice Cream Girls

by Dorothy Koomson

The Ice Cream Girls by Dorothy Koomson is a mesmerizing tale that will leave you breathless with its chilling secrets and frozen emotions. This gripping novel, often referred to as the ‘book on ice’, delves into the lives of two women bound together by a dark and sorrowful past.

Set against a backdrop as cold as the Arctic, this compelling ‘book about ice’ explores the complex relationship between Serena and Poppy, two childhood friends who were convicted of a heinous crime they both claim they didn’t commit. As the story unravels, layers of deception, betrayal, and manipulation are revealed, creating a bone-chilling atmosphere that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Koomson’s masterful storytelling transforms this ‘ice book’ into a powerful exploration of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of keeping secrets frozen deep within. With each turn of the page, the author skillfully peels back the layers of the characters’ lives, exposing the raw emotions and hidden truths that have kept them trapped in a perpetual winter of their own making.

Prepare to be captivated by the frozen landscapes and the emotionally charged narrative that makes The Ice Cream Girls a standout in its genre. Koomson’s evocative prose and her ability to create characters that are as complex and flawed as ice crystals dancing in the wind will leave you spellbound until the very last page.

The Ice Maiden

by B.D. Smith

The Ice Maiden is a captivating book on ice that will transport you to a world of chilling suspense and frozen intrigue. This book about ice is a thrilling adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning each page to uncover the mysteries that lie within.

Step into a realm of icy wonder as you follow the journey of the protagonist through a frozen landscape. The author, B.D. Smith, expertly weaves a tale of danger and survival against the backdrop of a desolate, ice book setting.

With vivid descriptions that will make you feel the biting cold and see the shimmering ice crystals, The Ice Maiden is a mesmerizing tale that will immerse you in a world where ice reigns supreme. Prepare to be enthralled by the author’s ability to bring this icy world to life in such a compelling manner.

Whether you are a fan of thrillers, mysteries, or simply enjoy a good book on ice, The Ice Maiden is sure to leave you spellbound. Don’t miss out on this chilling masterpiece that will captivate your imagination and leave you yearning for more.

The Ice Princess

by Elizabeth Hoyt

The Ice Princess by Elizabeth Hoyt is a mesmerizing tale that will send shivers down your spine. This enchanting book on ice delves into a world of mystery and passion, where danger lurks beneath the frozen surface. Prepare to be captivated by a story that will leave you breathless with its icy allure.

The Ice House

by Tim Clare

The Ice House: A Chilling Adventure

Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey through the frozen depths of imagination with Tim Clare’s spellbinding masterpiece, The Ice House. This mesmerizing tale is not just a book on ice; it is a captivating odyssey into a world where frosty enchantment collides with heart-stopping suspense.

Within the pages of this extraordinary novel, Clare unveils a mysterious ice book, an artifact pulsating with untold power. As the protagonist stumbles upon this frozen marvel, a chilling chain of events is set into motion. The icy tendrils of destiny wrap around our hero, drawing them inexorably into a breathtaking adventure that will test their courage, resilience, and sanity.

Every page of The Ice House crackles with the frigid beauty of Clare’s prose, capturing the essence of a winter wonderland in vivid detail. The author’s mastery of description transports readers to a realm of dazzling ice sculptures, shimmering glaciers, and treacherous frozen landscapes, where danger lurks beneath the surface.

But this isn’t just another book about ice; it’s a tale of survival and self-discovery amidst the harshest of conditions. As our protagonist battles the elements and confronts their deepest fears, they must confront the icy demons that lurk within themselves. With each turn of the page, the tension mounts, leaving readers on the edge of their seats, desperate to unravel the secrets hidden within the frosty pages of the ice book.

In The Ice House, Clare masterfully weaves a tapestry of suspense, mystery, and raw emotion, drawing readers ever deeper into a world where nothing is as it seems. Brace yourself for a bone-chilling adventure that will leave you shivering with anticipation, unable to tear yourself away from the icy grip of this extraordinary literary masterpiece.

The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street

by Susan Jane Gilman

The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street is a delectable literary treat that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the frosty world of ice cream. This captivating novel by Susan Jane Gilman is like a scoop of pure indulgence, sprinkled with rich characters and a captivating storyline.

Set in the frosty streets of Orchard Street, this book about ice serves up a tantalizing tale of survival and ambition. The protagonist, Lillian Dunkle, is a scrappy young Russian immigrant who rises from the depths of poverty to become the fiercely determined Ice Cream Queen.

As the story unfolds, readers are transported into the icy realm of Lillian’s empire, witnessing the challenges she faces and the sacrifices she makes to achieve her dreams. From the sweltering heat of New York summers to the frozen delights of winter, Gilman’s vivid descriptions make the ice book come alive, immersing readers in a world of frozen desserts and frozen hearts.

But The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street is not just a book on ice; it is a tale of resilience and the pursuit of the American dream. Lillian’s journey is filled with triumphs and tragedies, as she navigates the treacherous landscape of business and relationships, all while staying true to her icy roots.

With its vibrant prose and captivating storyline, this book about ice is a delicious read that will leave readers craving more. So grab a cozy blanket, settle in with a pint of your favorite ice cream, and prepare to be swept away by the enchanting world of The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street.

The Ice Twins

by S.K. Tremayne

Welcome to the chilling world of The Ice Twins by S.K. Tremayne, a bone-chilling book on ice that will send shivers down your spine! Brace yourself for a heart-stopping tale of mystery, deception, and a family torn apart by grief and the treacherous secrets hidden beneath the frozen surface.

The Ice Beneath Her

by Camilla Grebe

The Ice Beneath Her is a chilling and gripping thriller that will leave you frozen in suspense. This mesmerizing book on ice takes you on a bone-chilling journey into the depths of a murder investigation. Set in the icy landscape of Stockholm, this mesmerizing tale immerses you into a world where secrets lie beneath the surface, just like the frozen waters of a lake.

The Ice Limit

by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

The Ice Limit: An Epic Adventure on Frozen Frontiers

Prepare yourself for a chilling journey into the heart of a frozen mystery with The Ice Limit – a thrilling novel that will send shivers down your spine. This captivating tale, penned by the dynamic duo of Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, will transport you to the icy corners of the world where danger lurks beneath the surface.

Step into a world of ice and intrigue as the authors weave a gripping narrative that combines elements of suspense, mystery, and scientific exploration. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Antarctic, this book on ice will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving you on the edge of your seat.

As you delve deeper into the story, you’ll encounter a diverse cast of characters – each with their own motivations and secrets. From the enigmatic billionaire Palmer Lloyd to the brilliant and eccentric scientist Dr. Sam McFarlane, you’ll find yourself captivated by the web of intrigue that surrounds them.

But the true star of this captivating ice book is the mysterious object known as the “meteorite.” With its origins shrouded in secrecy, this extraordinary discovery holds the power to change the world forever. As a team of explorers embarks on a treacherous journey to retrieve it, they soon realize that they are not the only ones with their sights set on this precious relic.

Prepare to be enthralled by the authors’ vivid descriptions of the icy landscapes, as they transport you to a world where danger lurks around every corner. With every twist and turn, you’ll find yourself immersed in a race against time, where survival is not guaranteed.

So, if you’re searching for an exhilarating adventure that will leave you breathless, look no further than The Ice Limit. Brace yourself for a book about ice that will chill you to the core and leave you yearning for more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about ice offer a fascinating exploration of the frozen world. From gripping Arctic expeditions to the science behind glaciers, these books provide a captivating insight into the beauty and power of ice. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or environmental issues, there’s a book on this list that will satisfy your curiosity. So, grab one of these books and immerse yourself in the chilling allure of ice.