After Maxie’s mother goes through yet another divorce, fifteen-year-old, Maxie is sent to Montreal to visit her aunt. She feels lost, abandoned and like she doesn’t fit in with her slim cousins, who even know the ins and outs of skiing. While out skiing, there is an avalanche. She wakes to find a handsome man taking care of her. Philippe is studying to be a doctor, but what breaks Maxie’s heart, is the fact another girl is there, Renee’, his girlfriend. They believe Maxie suffered hypothermia. Maxie so wishes Philippe didn’t have a girlfriend. Her aunt comes to get her, and Maxie must sadly say bye to Philippe. Years later, after 9/11, the scene with the avalanche creeps into her mind, and Maxie sees a therapist. Thoughts of Philippe stir in her head. She can’t forget how he came to her rescue. Maxie is surprised when, years later, she runs into Philippe, in Las Vegas, during a convention. He has not forgotten Maxie. Three years later, Maxie is on her way to help some of the children with their skiing when Philippe enters her life once more. They had kept in touch with a few emails but there he stood, handsome as ever. He has come quite a way since he first began his education as a doctor, and has learned more about the extensive research being done on spinal work. He was in the U.S. now alone since Renee’ broke his heart. He wants to forget the past and get on with the future. He and Maxie never forgot that one special day they met. They both had gone through a transformation but was it enough to keep them together always?

Snow, Fire and Ice is a well-written story. Maxie’s life starts off similar to many young teenagers who are trying to find something in life to make them happy. I wanted to reach through the pages when she spoke of how people had made fun of her name or because she was slightly different in her weight then other girls. She finds love at a young age, and never forgets that one special love through the years. Randi del Marco sketches a believable story that is heartwarming, moving, and an absolute joy to read. Maxie is a character that stays with readers even after the story is finished. I love it when two people, who were truly meant to be, finally find a way in reaching out and discovering that one special love all over again. This coming of age tale is a fantastic read.

Reviewed by: Linda L.