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Winter Saga #1
Winter's Shadow
Blake Duchamp...
He's all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim's Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.
But Blake isn't all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.
The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself.
He's all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim's Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.
But Blake isn't all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.
The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself.
424 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2011
23 people are currently reading
6702 people want to read
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December 4, 2013
Actual Rating: 1.49
When I started reading this book, I wasn't sure what to expect. I had hope that it would be one of the exceptions in the YA paranormal romance genre but instead it was another example of unoriginal mediocre storytelling. It's as though there is some sort of paint-by-numbers tool for writing romance and characters and this author used it.
The premise is completely unoriginal. An ordinary girl, Winter, who isn't quite so ordinary, meets and instantly falls in love with the stunningly handsome hero, Blake. Blake instantly falls in love with Winter but he must stay away from her because being with him is dangerous, not unlike Stefan Salvator from The Vampire Diaries, Daniel Grigori from Fallen, and Edward Cullen from Twilight.
As the plot unfolds, the love story does not gain any originality. The characters, within a week of knowing each other, are confessing their love, and are ready to die for each other. What made it worse than some of the other YA insta-loves is that Winter and Blake have zero chemistry. I don't even believe that these characters are in lust with each other because lust requires some chemistry.
I found Blake to be very bland. I was told he was beautiful and sexy but I just didn't see it. He wasn't as bad as Patch from Hush, Hush, who makes inappropriate comments and sexual advances towards the Nora, or Daniel from Fallen, who flips the Luce off when he first sees her, but he still plays hot and cold, first drawing Winter in, then pushing her away, then drawing her in again, and so forth. I do give the author credit for not including a useless love triangle, which was the only original part of the love story.
The characterization in this novel is awful and sadly unoriginal. I don't think a single character was believable, nor did any of the deeper relationships between the characters feel authentic. I felt no affection between Winter and her sister, Lucy, and I couldn't understand why Winter was friends with Jasmine. Jasmine is the second most annoying friend in YA literature after Vee from Hush, Hush. She is pushy, selfish, and, at times, insulting and mean. Usually, there is at least one secondary character I like or shows promise, but in this novel there was none.
Winter has surpassed both Nora from Hush, Hush and Luce from Fallen as the stupidest YA heroine of all time. Yes, she is dumber than Luce. There wasn't one single mystery that I didn't figure out at least several chapters ahead of Winter. Additionally, there were several times where she puts herself in danger by being a complete idiot. Her stupidity definitely drives the plot of this novel. For example, Blake warns Winter not to go to the second floor of his house, yet she ignores his warning when any person with an ounce of intelligence would have listened to him. At least the author doesn't try to tell us Winter is smart and parade her awesome grades around as proof.
Winter is not the only less than intelligent character in this novel. As an example, the book starts out with a caretaker for an old church explaining to Winter that it has been damaged in a fire, and that the church has been ruled as unsafe by the local counsel. He also tells her that only "spit and faith" are holding the roof up. Yet he not only allows her to go in, but he also leaves her alone after warning her that she needs to be careful. Not only is this an example of Winter's stupidity for entering the church, and an example of the caretaker's stupidity for letting her, but it's also one of those unrealistic plot devices that are common to YA literature.
Hearle also falls into many pitfalls that plague new writers. He is a very wordy author, often times taking an entire paragraph to say something that was explained in the first sentence, or didn't need to be explained at all. There were also quite a few instances of massive info dumps when information could have been woven throughout the story.
The flashbacks in this novel were also problematic because they didn't add anything to the story. The insights provided by the flashbacks were more succinctly explained by the hero in massive info dumps later on. The few things that were not later explained by Blake were not crucial to the plot nor did they help develop the characters. The author has admitted that the flashbacks were added after the story was completed as a way of adding more magic to the first half of the book which explains a lot.
As for the writing style itself, I'm conflicted because Hearle is able to craft some very beautiful sentences, but I felt that it was written in a way that kept me at a distance from the characters. I had a difficult time connecting with them. I also felt that the style of writing was more suited to historical fiction or fantasy rather than a story about a sixteen year old girl in modern times. It seemed to fit better during the flashbacks, but I still felt like I was being kept at arms length from the characters. Perhaps if the characters had been better written the writing style wouldn't have been a problem in that regard.
Lastly, I believe that this novel, more than any other YA novel I've read, was insulting to my intelligence. Over and over again, the author would reveal things as though they were a complete surprise many chapters after I had figured the mystery out. Even worse, the author would connect dots that didn't need to be connected because the point was painfully obvious. I don't typically feel insulted when the author keeps characters in the dark about something I've already figured out so long as it makes sense for the characters to remain ignorant (which in this book it didn't), and when the reveal is supposed to be a surprise to the character but not the reader. In this novel, with all of the over explaining for the reader's benefit, it was clear to me that the revelations were meant to be a surprise for the reader as well as the character, which made me feel like my intelligence was being grossly underestimated.
There are many other flaws and unoriginal plot points that I won't go into as this review is already rather long. I will say that the mythology is original, but it wasn't enough to make up for the poor characterization and romance. I was not blown away by Hearle's supernatural creatures or worlds, but your mileage may vary. I do give him credit for at least trying to be original, however, if you replace his beings with vampires or fallen angels, you're left with the same problematic characters, romances, and unrealistic plot developments that are found in many of the other YA literature published these days.
Parting words: No man who sacrifices cats is sexy.
When I started reading this book, I wasn't sure what to expect. I had hope that it would be one of the exceptions in the YA paranormal romance genre but instead it was another example of unoriginal mediocre storytelling. It's as though there is some sort of paint-by-numbers tool for writing romance and characters and this author used it.
The premise is completely unoriginal. An ordinary girl, Winter, who isn't quite so ordinary, meets and instantly falls in love with the stunningly handsome hero, Blake. Blake instantly falls in love with Winter but he must stay away from her because being with him is dangerous, not unlike Stefan Salvator from The Vampire Diaries, Daniel Grigori from Fallen, and Edward Cullen from Twilight.
As the plot unfolds, the love story does not gain any originality. The characters, within a week of knowing each other, are confessing their love, and are ready to die for each other. What made it worse than some of the other YA insta-loves is that Winter and Blake have zero chemistry. I don't even believe that these characters are in lust with each other because lust requires some chemistry.
I found Blake to be very bland. I was told he was beautiful and sexy but I just didn't see it. He wasn't as bad as Patch from Hush, Hush, who makes inappropriate comments and sexual advances towards the Nora, or Daniel from Fallen, who flips the Luce off when he first sees her, but he still plays hot and cold, first drawing Winter in, then pushing her away, then drawing her in again, and so forth. I do give the author credit for not including a useless love triangle, which was the only original part of the love story.
The characterization in this novel is awful and sadly unoriginal. I don't think a single character was believable, nor did any of the deeper relationships between the characters feel authentic. I felt no affection between Winter and her sister, Lucy, and I couldn't understand why Winter was friends with Jasmine. Jasmine is the second most annoying friend in YA literature after Vee from Hush, Hush. She is pushy, selfish, and, at times, insulting and mean. Usually, there is at least one secondary character I like or shows promise, but in this novel there was none.
Winter has surpassed both Nora from Hush, Hush and Luce from Fallen as the stupidest YA heroine of all time. Yes, she is dumber than Luce. There wasn't one single mystery that I didn't figure out at least several chapters ahead of Winter. Additionally, there were several times where she puts herself in danger by being a complete idiot. Her stupidity definitely drives the plot of this novel. For example, Blake warns Winter not to go to the second floor of his house, yet she ignores his warning when any person with an ounce of intelligence would have listened to him. At least the author doesn't try to tell us Winter is smart and parade her awesome grades around as proof.
Winter is not the only less than intelligent character in this novel. As an example, the book starts out with a caretaker for an old church explaining to Winter that it has been damaged in a fire, and that the church has been ruled as unsafe by the local counsel. He also tells her that only "spit and faith" are holding the roof up. Yet he not only allows her to go in, but he also leaves her alone after warning her that she needs to be careful. Not only is this an example of Winter's stupidity for entering the church, and an example of the caretaker's stupidity for letting her, but it's also one of those unrealistic plot devices that are common to YA literature.
Hearle also falls into many pitfalls that plague new writers. He is a very wordy author, often times taking an entire paragraph to say something that was explained in the first sentence, or didn't need to be explained at all. There were also quite a few instances of massive info dumps when information could have been woven throughout the story.
The flashbacks in this novel were also problematic because they didn't add anything to the story. The insights provided by the flashbacks were more succinctly explained by the hero in massive info dumps later on. The few things that were not later explained by Blake were not crucial to the plot nor did they help develop the characters. The author has admitted that the flashbacks were added after the story was completed as a way of adding more magic to the first half of the book which explains a lot.
As for the writing style itself, I'm conflicted because Hearle is able to craft some very beautiful sentences, but I felt that it was written in a way that kept me at a distance from the characters. I had a difficult time connecting with them. I also felt that the style of writing was more suited to historical fiction or fantasy rather than a story about a sixteen year old girl in modern times. It seemed to fit better during the flashbacks, but I still felt like I was being kept at arms length from the characters. Perhaps if the characters had been better written the writing style wouldn't have been a problem in that regard.
Lastly, I believe that this novel, more than any other YA novel I've read, was insulting to my intelligence. Over and over again, the author would reveal things as though they were a complete surprise many chapters after I had figured the mystery out. Even worse, the author would connect dots that didn't need to be connected because the point was painfully obvious. I don't typically feel insulted when the author keeps characters in the dark about something I've already figured out so long as it makes sense for the characters to remain ignorant (which in this book it didn't), and when the reveal is supposed to be a surprise to the character but not the reader. In this novel, with all of the over explaining for the reader's benefit, it was clear to me that the revelations were meant to be a surprise for the reader as well as the character, which made me feel like my intelligence was being grossly underestimated.
There are many other flaws and unoriginal plot points that I won't go into as this review is already rather long. I will say that the mythology is original, but it wasn't enough to make up for the poor characterization and romance. I was not blown away by Hearle's supernatural creatures or worlds, but your mileage may vary. I do give him credit for at least trying to be original, however, if you replace his beings with vampires or fallen angels, you're left with the same problematic characters, romances, and unrealistic plot developments that are found in many of the other YA literature published these days.
Parting words: No man who sacrifices cats is sexy.
June 9, 2011
4.5Stars
Aussie Book challenge 2011 #8
I've been looking forward to Winter's Shadow for so long, wanting it to be exactly what I hoped it would be, so I'm thrilled to say that it did not disappoint. This is very much, a Tina book;)
M.J Hearle writing is exquisitely remarkable. He smoothly invites his reader in with ease and anticipation from the very first chapter, on. The tone of the book is set in a very mysterious teasing way. The suspense is thick and distant, almost like you could grasp the meaning behind it all, but with it's quick turns made it hard to predict. The flow of the story was drawn at a leashed pace, your only meant to understand once the character does, but I think that's what I loved the most, it was never dull and I was completely engrossed.
Winter is a great protag. It's mainly told through her point of view but we do get some of Blake's thoughts as well as some chapters from the 1800's, which I also really loved since it painted the picture that much clearer. The moment Winter Adams looked into those emerald green eyes, the minute he saved her life, Winter was apart of something bigger then she could ever realize. The significance of her role, which we don't find out till later in the book, was fascinating and I really loved that twist.
But I think that Blake is the one who owned this one for me. It's not a surprise to those who know me. I've always been easily swooned by the haunted male character who is fiercely protective, intense, complicated, dangerous but still tries to hold on to that goodness he desperately clings too. What he did for Winter was beautiful.
The concept was very well crafted. It was both paranormal and magical but it's not any one element I could put in a category. This one seems to be fresh and unique and I have to give props to Hearle for use of imagination and creativity. The last few chapters, once everything started to unfold, was completely memorizing and I really didn't want it to end. I'm definitely gonna need to pick a copy of this book once it hits shelves over here.
Overall, I just loved this. It's haunting and creepy and intriguing in all the ways paranorm is meant too. I had a lot of fun reading Winter and Blake's story and all I have left to say is, it can't end here. Just no! I'm gonna need a sequel to this gem and I'm gonna need it soon.
More Please!!
(Special thanks to our book angel Nic (twinie) for sending this on tour. You my friend, Rock! Crystal, your next!)
Aussie Book challenge 2011 #8
I've been looking forward to Winter's Shadow for so long, wanting it to be exactly what I hoped it would be, so I'm thrilled to say that it did not disappoint. This is very much, a Tina book;)
M.J Hearle writing is exquisitely remarkable. He smoothly invites his reader in with ease and anticipation from the very first chapter, on. The tone of the book is set in a very mysterious teasing way. The suspense is thick and distant, almost like you could grasp the meaning behind it all, but with it's quick turns made it hard to predict. The flow of the story was drawn at a leashed pace, your only meant to understand once the character does, but I think that's what I loved the most, it was never dull and I was completely engrossed.
Winter is a great protag. It's mainly told through her point of view but we do get some of Blake's thoughts as well as some chapters from the 1800's, which I also really loved since it painted the picture that much clearer. The moment Winter Adams looked into those emerald green eyes, the minute he saved her life, Winter was apart of something bigger then she could ever realize. The significance of her role, which we don't find out till later in the book, was fascinating and I really loved that twist.
But I think that Blake is the one who owned this one for me. It's not a surprise to those who know me. I've always been easily swooned by the haunted male character who is fiercely protective, intense, complicated, dangerous but still tries to hold on to that goodness he desperately clings too. What he did for Winter was beautiful.
The concept was very well crafted. It was both paranormal and magical but it's not any one element I could put in a category. This one seems to be fresh and unique and I have to give props to Hearle for use of imagination and creativity. The last few chapters, once everything started to unfold, was completely memorizing and I really didn't want it to end. I'm definitely gonna need to pick a copy of this book once it hits shelves over here.
Overall, I just loved this. It's haunting and creepy and intriguing in all the ways paranorm is meant too. I had a lot of fun reading Winter and Blake's story and all I have left to say is, it can't end here. Just no! I'm gonna need a sequel to this gem and I'm gonna need it soon.
More Please!!
(Special thanks to our book angel Nic (twinie) for sending this on tour. You my friend, Rock! Crystal, your next!)
April 18, 2011
Favourite Quote: Blake titled his head at her as if she was a particularly tricky problem to solve. Their eyes locked, and for one delirious moment Winter had the sense again that Blake wanted to kiss her. It was an irrational, impossible, wonderful instinct - an instinct her body reinforced through its reaction. Flushed with heat, her pulse quickened, and everything stood out in exquisite detail. The stars in the sky, Owl Mountain, a tooth of darkness in the distance, a stray lock of Blake's hair stirring in the breeze, the sensual curve of his lips, and his eyes. Most of all his eyes.
Isn't that quote gorgeous? Winter's Shadow is a dark and appealing read that is so beautifully written. It's pages are full of intrigue and mystery that make it hard to put it down.
Hearle writing is hypnotic. He has a great eye for details especially when it came to describing the setting.
Through the broken pane of the stained glass window she could see the remnants of an ancient graveyard, all but hidden by the tall grass and weeds that had crept in from the surrounding woods. Blackened tombstones rose above the grass here and there like strange fungi, weathered by the elements and the passage of time. Standing over of the graves, dressed in a simple gray suit, was a young man.
The pace starts very slowly, maybe a little too slow in the first half but it does pick up and then you find yourself completely captivated by this tale. The plot is refreshingly different from other paranormal reads out there. Hearle has certainly created an interesting and unique concept that is full of dark and eerie secrets that gently unravel ensuring you are kept in suspense until the end.
Winter's Shadow is mainly told from Winter's POV. We do get flashbacks to 1878 and Blake's narrative briefly that allows us to understand the story better. Both Winter and Blake are likeable and well crafted characters. However, Blake would be the standout out character for me. He was a complex and alluring character.
The ending was satisfying but at the same time wanting more. I am left hoping there is more to Winter's and Blake's story.
Overall, Winter's Shadow is a strong debut novel. It you are looking for an exceptional paranormal romance that is smart, spellbinding and original than you shouldn't miss this.
Isn't that quote gorgeous? Winter's Shadow is a dark and appealing read that is so beautifully written. It's pages are full of intrigue and mystery that make it hard to put it down.
Hearle writing is hypnotic. He has a great eye for details especially when it came to describing the setting.
Through the broken pane of the stained glass window she could see the remnants of an ancient graveyard, all but hidden by the tall grass and weeds that had crept in from the surrounding woods. Blackened tombstones rose above the grass here and there like strange fungi, weathered by the elements and the passage of time. Standing over of the graves, dressed in a simple gray suit, was a young man.
The pace starts very slowly, maybe a little too slow in the first half but it does pick up and then you find yourself completely captivated by this tale. The plot is refreshingly different from other paranormal reads out there. Hearle has certainly created an interesting and unique concept that is full of dark and eerie secrets that gently unravel ensuring you are kept in suspense until the end.
Winter's Shadow is mainly told from Winter's POV. We do get flashbacks to 1878 and Blake's narrative briefly that allows us to understand the story better. Both Winter and Blake are likeable and well crafted characters. However, Blake would be the standout out character for me. He was a complex and alluring character.
The ending was satisfying but at the same time wanting more. I am left hoping there is more to Winter's and Blake's story.
Overall, Winter's Shadow is a strong debut novel. It you are looking for an exceptional paranormal romance that is smart, spellbinding and original than you shouldn't miss this.
September 18, 2011
I’d wanted to read Winter’s Shadow for a while now, when I heard that the Paranormal Wasteland’s blog was doing a blog tour of this book I signed up immediately.
Winter has been assigned the task of taking photographs of Pilgrim’s Lament, one of the oldest church buildings in Owl Mountain for the school paper. Winter had taken a couple of great shots and was almost done until she sees a beautiful man standing outside the church. Winter feels herself being drawn to the stranger, whilst distracted by this alluring stranger, Winter manages to trip over a piece of timbre and then bangs into a column of the church causing the roof of the old church to collapse. As everything begins to fall around her, Winter thinks her days are numbered, there’s no way she can escape now, but she finds herself lying outside the church still in one piece. The strange man had saved her, but how could he have saved her so quickly? Since that eventful day strange things have been happening, Winter’s sure she can see dark shapes and shadows lurking about and things which she’s sure she’s seen before either in her dreams or on the TV and she always seems to have a sense of foreboding and what is Blake the mysterious stranger hiding?
I really was looking forward to reading Winter’s Shadow, but I just couldn’t get into it, I nearly gave up a few times, but decided to trudge along. I found Blake infuriatingly secretive and was interested in finding out what the deal was with him. The pace of the story did pick up ever so slightly in the second half of the book, but sadly not enough for me to increase my ratings for this book. I also think that one of the reasons I didn’t enjoy this book as much is because my enthusiasm I once had for paranormal books has simmered down considerably from before.
Thank you to Paranormal Wastelands and M.J Hearle for giving me this opportunity to read this book. If you’re interested in reading this book, you can still sign up here
Winter has been assigned the task of taking photographs of Pilgrim’s Lament, one of the oldest church buildings in Owl Mountain for the school paper. Winter had taken a couple of great shots and was almost done until she sees a beautiful man standing outside the church. Winter feels herself being drawn to the stranger, whilst distracted by this alluring stranger, Winter manages to trip over a piece of timbre and then bangs into a column of the church causing the roof of the old church to collapse. As everything begins to fall around her, Winter thinks her days are numbered, there’s no way she can escape now, but she finds herself lying outside the church still in one piece. The strange man had saved her, but how could he have saved her so quickly? Since that eventful day strange things have been happening, Winter’s sure she can see dark shapes and shadows lurking about and things which she’s sure she’s seen before either in her dreams or on the TV and she always seems to have a sense of foreboding and what is Blake the mysterious stranger hiding?
I really was looking forward to reading Winter’s Shadow, but I just couldn’t get into it, I nearly gave up a few times, but decided to trudge along. I found Blake infuriatingly secretive and was interested in finding out what the deal was with him. The pace of the story did pick up ever so slightly in the second half of the book, but sadly not enough for me to increase my ratings for this book. I also think that one of the reasons I didn’t enjoy this book as much is because my enthusiasm I once had for paranormal books has simmered down considerably from before.
Thank you to Paranormal Wastelands and M.J Hearle for giving me this opportunity to read this book. If you’re interested in reading this book, you can still sign up here
June 23, 2011
AHHHH this book is SO SO SO good that I don't even know where to start. Which leads me to wonder if just saying that is the best thing I can do? Wondering if there is anyway that I can find the words to describe the level of awesomeness with in these pages?
But that's NOT good enough. So I'm going to try here...
First and Foremost, this is M.J. Hearle's debut novel, and this is not only the best debut novel I've ever read, but probably one of the BEST books I've ever read...period With equal parts suspense, love, swoon-worthiness, fright factor, heart wrenching moments you are left on the edge of your seat. This book will leave you white knuckle gripping the pages, feverishly reading in to the wee hours of the night(until your husband kicks you out of the bedroom and you revert to the living room because there is no need for sleep when your reading this), heart pounding, blood flowing, as you turn each and every page.
Winter's character is flawlessly written in the fact that she sees so many flaws in herself. She is shy, self-conscious, and kind of a self made loner. With her pale freckled skin, red hair, and lopsided mouth when she looks in the mirror she doesn't see anything worth looking at. Maybe that's why I relate to her, I dunno, but I love her. I love how she doubts herself, because that is something that I do everyday. How it is so hard for her to believe that Blake actually finds her attractive. How nervous she is when she is around him. It all just works so perfectly. I mean isn't that how most teenage girls feel?
Then there is Blake... *swoon swoon swoon*
I love the mystery behind him. In fact all the mystery behind the entire book just makes it that much better. You are constantly left guessing WHAT the supernatural element is.
At one point I wouldn't have been the least bit surprised if a ghost flew by the window, a vampire rang the doorbell, an incubus answered the door, a pixie let the werewolf off it's chain, while a faerie sits in the corner brushing her kitty, only to reveal that the kitty is actually a changeling! Yes....I really did think of all of these creatures while trying to figure it out.
Where any of my guesses right you ask? HAHAHAS come on now you don't really think that I'm gonna tell you now do you?
You will just have to read and find out! yes I am aware that I am evil...but you love me for it *winks*
But back to Blake and Winter. Their relationship, while tragically tangled, is smooth and perfect. The best part is how at one point I'm reading, loving it, flying through the pages, and then DA da dummmmm, and before I even realized that I had time to get emotionally attached there is an ache in my chest and a tear escaping my eyes as I audibly gasp. M.J.Hearle sneaks up behind you and compels you to a point you no longer feel like a bystander looking in. No you have become the story...the story has become you. This is by far the best Paranormal YA I've read in the last few months.
With a twist at the end that leaves you begging for more....I can't CAN'T wait for the next book in this series to come out. And you can bet you finest possession that I WILL be re-reading this book. Because once just simply isn't enough for a book with this much wonderment.
Look out world there is a new supernatural kid on the block and he isn't going anywhere!
One last note before we hit the road here. Unfortunately this book is only released in Australia right now. But never fear you can get a chance to read it through a tour that's going on HERE! Thanks to the fine people at Pan Macmillan AU & M.J. Hearle for making that possible. Also for all you publisher's out there M.J. Hearle is in the market for a US publisher, so please if your reading this do yourself a favor and look him up! I wouldn't steer ya wrong this book is beyond words...
But that's NOT good enough. So I'm going to try here...
First and Foremost, this is M.J. Hearle's debut novel, and this is not only the best debut novel I've ever read, but probably one of the BEST books I've ever read...period With equal parts suspense, love, swoon-worthiness, fright factor, heart wrenching moments you are left on the edge of your seat. This book will leave you white knuckle gripping the pages, feverishly reading in to the wee hours of the night(until your husband kicks you out of the bedroom and you revert to the living room because there is no need for sleep when your reading this), heart pounding, blood flowing, as you turn each and every page.
Winter's character is flawlessly written in the fact that she sees so many flaws in herself. She is shy, self-conscious, and kind of a self made loner. With her pale freckled skin, red hair, and lopsided mouth when she looks in the mirror she doesn't see anything worth looking at. Maybe that's why I relate to her, I dunno, but I love her. I love how she doubts herself, because that is something that I do everyday. How it is so hard for her to believe that Blake actually finds her attractive. How nervous she is when she is around him. It all just works so perfectly. I mean isn't that how most teenage girls feel?
Then there is Blake... *swoon swoon swoon*
I love the mystery behind him. In fact all the mystery behind the entire book just makes it that much better. You are constantly left guessing WHAT the supernatural element is.
At one point I wouldn't have been the least bit surprised if a ghost flew by the window, a vampire rang the doorbell, an incubus answered the door, a pixie let the werewolf off it's chain, while a faerie sits in the corner brushing her kitty, only to reveal that the kitty is actually a changeling! Yes....I really did think of all of these creatures while trying to figure it out.
Where any of my guesses right you ask? HAHAHAS come on now you don't really think that I'm gonna tell you now do you?
You will just have to read and find out! yes I am aware that I am evil...but you love me for it *winks*
But back to Blake and Winter. Their relationship, while tragically tangled, is smooth and perfect. The best part is how at one point I'm reading, loving it, flying through the pages, and then DA da dummmmm, and before I even realized that I had time to get emotionally attached there is an ache in my chest and a tear escaping my eyes as I audibly gasp. M.J.Hearle sneaks up behind you and compels you to a point you no longer feel like a bystander looking in. No you have become the story...the story has become you. This is by far the best Paranormal YA I've read in the last few months.
With a twist at the end that leaves you begging for more....I can't CAN'T wait for the next book in this series to come out. And you can bet you finest possession that I WILL be re-reading this book. Because once just simply isn't enough for a book with this much wonderment.
Look out world there is a new supernatural kid on the block and he isn't going anywhere!
One last note before we hit the road here. Unfortunately this book is only released in Australia right now. But never fear you can get a chance to read it through a tour that's going on HERE! Thanks to the fine people at Pan Macmillan AU & M.J. Hearle for making that possible. Also for all you publisher's out there M.J. Hearle is in the market for a US publisher, so please if your reading this do yourself a favor and look him up! I wouldn't steer ya wrong this book is beyond words...
July 10, 2011
0_o The cover is stunning but also the story seems very interesting.
*edit* post-reading
Maybe if I was still a sixteen-year-old I would say this book is amazing. Sadly,I'm not 16 and I'm not impressed.
Cover and the blurb are to blame and also my high expectations because so many people are saying how amazing Winter's Shadow was. Don't get me wrong,I really,really wanted to like it.
I dislike those love at first sight romances. I think it needed so much more character interaction between Blake and Winter for me to believe how much they cared for each other. Maybe they should know each other at least a month before declaring their undying love to one another. But no. It was enough just after one week. One more thing,there was this part where Blake tells Winter he is a monster and she is like You are not a monster. I am not afraid of you... *Ding,ding,ding Twilight alert* Let the poor man breath Winter,slow down.
*edit* post-reading
Maybe if I was still a sixteen-year-old I would say this book is amazing. Sadly,I'm not 16 and I'm not impressed.
Cover and the blurb are to blame and also my high expectations because so many people are saying how amazing Winter's Shadow was. Don't get me wrong,I really,really wanted to like it.
I dislike those love at first sight romances. I think it needed so much more character interaction between Blake and Winter for me to believe how much they cared for each other. Maybe they should know each other at least a month before declaring their undying love to one another. But no. It was enough just after one week. One more thing,there was this part where Blake tells Winter he is a monster and she is like You are not a monster. I am not afraid of you... *Ding,ding,ding Twilight alert* Let the poor man breath Winter,slow down.
March 25, 2011
Well, they weren't lying in the Media Release for Winter's Shadow when they said that there wasn't any of the normal paranormal culprits here. I'm not sure if the characters (and I use that word loosely) are based on any popular myths but I sure as hell haven't encountered them before, making Winter's Shadow one of the more unique Young Adult novels out there. Winter has a talent that she's never really noticed until she meets Blake who is like her kryptonite. And one hell of a hot kryptonite he is. There's so many secrets he's hiding, I loved being able to find them out with Winter. Some are kind of obvious but some come out of nowhere.
Hearle does a great job writing Winter's Shadow from a female perspective being that he is male. I've had some bad experiences with males writing Young Adult so I'm rather picky with what I'll read. I'm very impressed with Hearle's skills and it was nice to get away from the deception and bitchiness that seems to litter so many YA novels recently. Not that I don't like them but sometimes you just need a break. Unfortunately though, I found the style of writing a little stiff for Young Adult. Maybe it won't feel that way to those better educated, I just thought some of the words and phrasing seemed a bit mature when narrating about a girl who is almost flunking school.
Winter's Shadow stays interesting all the way throughout with great characters supporting the protagonists. There are flashbacks to Paris during the late 1800's that run alongside Winter's story giving us more of an idea of who Blake is. I really enjoyed these as there are only a few of them and they don't interfere with the main story, only support it. The ending was very sad but then the last chapter creates an opening that is just begging for some closure. I'm not a fan of open ends so I'd like something more whether it be a sequel or just a few more lines in the final published edition. All in all, Winter's Shadow is a wonderfully unique story that paranormal YA fans will lap up.
Cover: Really pretty, not very unique these days though. Love the colours.
Hearle does a great job writing Winter's Shadow from a female perspective being that he is male. I've had some bad experiences with males writing Young Adult so I'm rather picky with what I'll read. I'm very impressed with Hearle's skills and it was nice to get away from the deception and bitchiness that seems to litter so many YA novels recently. Not that I don't like them but sometimes you just need a break. Unfortunately though, I found the style of writing a little stiff for Young Adult. Maybe it won't feel that way to those better educated, I just thought some of the words and phrasing seemed a bit mature when narrating about a girl who is almost flunking school.
Winter's Shadow stays interesting all the way throughout with great characters supporting the protagonists. There are flashbacks to Paris during the late 1800's that run alongside Winter's story giving us more of an idea of who Blake is. I really enjoyed these as there are only a few of them and they don't interfere with the main story, only support it. The ending was very sad but then the last chapter creates an opening that is just begging for some closure. I'm not a fan of open ends so I'd like something more whether it be a sequel or just a few more lines in the final published edition. All in all, Winter's Shadow is a wonderfully unique story that paranormal YA fans will lap up.
Cover: Really pretty, not very unique these days though. Love the colours.
July 10, 2011
It starts out in familiar territory: a dark brooding hero and a girl with a sad, sad past are inexplicably drawn to each other. Said romantic hero has a secret and must keep the girl at arms length~ just to keep her safe. It's then interspersed with glimpses into someone's past. Now, between the present day troubles and the past ones, I'd much rather have reading about the latter, Madeleine and her love, especially since Blake and Winter's story was old hat.
THANKFULLY, things took an interesting turn when the cats showed up. Picture this:
Then throw in some of what made Soul Screamers (books three and four) special, when the Other World was explored. It was both these elements that pulled Winter Shadow out from what would have been "been there and done that" territory into something a little better and more interesting.
Initially there's a good deal that's predictable in it, with the story only really becoming its own sometime after the first two-thirds. Not bad.
THANKFULLY, things took an interesting turn when the cats showed up. Picture this:
Then throw in some of what made Soul Screamers (books three and four) special, when the Other World was explored. It was both these elements that pulled Winter Shadow out from what would have been "been there and done that" territory into something a little better and more interesting.
Initially there's a good deal that's predictable in it, with the story only really becoming its own sometime after the first two-thirds. Not bad.
August 11, 2011
Winter's life changed the moment she first saw Blake Duchamp. Not that she was aware of it. The only thing that Winter was aware of was his physical perfection and those hypnotic green eyes of his that shown with their own magical light. That, and his other-worldly charm.
This is the first young adult, paranormal romance book that I've read that's been written by a man. Bearing that in mind, at first I was afraid that I wouldn't like it, even though the back blurb had caught my interest. Actually, the book called to me. It wanted me to read it. So when I finally did I found myself pleasantly surprised by how much I really liked it.
I had a little bit of a hard time getting into Winter's Shadow at first. What I was reading wasn't bad, just a little slow moving. Then POW! All of a sudden the good stuff started happening. Where I was once taking my time reading, suddenly I was hooked and needed to devour it. I swear, the pages started flying through my fingers!
Winter was your typical shy girl. She had insecurities about her looks and purposely made herself "invisible" by having a shinning star for her best friend. She knew that she was often thought of as "that girl who hangs with Jasmine", and was just fine with that. I thought it wonderful that she was so self aware. She recognized her faults. She also recognized the faults of others and considered them part of their personalities. Whether it be Jasmine's daily dramas in her self-centered little world or her sister Lucy's stickybeakishness. She was wise for her young age.
Another thing that really struck home for me was the way Winter was with her sister. I really loved it. Her behavior was so realistic and spot on that it still boggles my mind that Hearle was able to capture it in words and put it on paper.
Blake was quite a mystery through most of this book. You knew that there was something up with him but what was it? He was hiding something that was for sure. That was another reason why I gobbled this book down. The mystery of what both he and the strange happenings that kept occurring were was something that I needed to find out.
I had two issues with this book that brought it from a five to a four for me. The first one is the way the book made me feel. Or should I say not feel? While yes I felt excited and drawn into the plot, I didn't feel all the emotion that the characters were feeling. I didn't feel the romance that was happening between our two main characters. For example, my favorite line in the book is from a love letter that Blake wrote to another girl. I mean, I read the words but the sensations weren't palpable for me like Winter's feelings for Jasmine or Lucy. The second problem that I had for this book is very simple. I guessed the answer to big "second floor" mystery about halfway through the book. It sorta took away from the big action scene for me.
Though I guessed the great twist in the ending before I read it I would read this book again. The world that Hearle created is extremely original. I truly have not read anything like it before. Trust me when I say that M.J. Hearle is an author that we are going to hear more from.
***At the moment this book is only released in Australia.
This is the first young adult, paranormal romance book that I've read that's been written by a man. Bearing that in mind, at first I was afraid that I wouldn't like it, even though the back blurb had caught my interest. Actually, the book called to me. It wanted me to read it. So when I finally did I found myself pleasantly surprised by how much I really liked it.
I had a little bit of a hard time getting into Winter's Shadow at first. What I was reading wasn't bad, just a little slow moving. Then POW! All of a sudden the good stuff started happening. Where I was once taking my time reading, suddenly I was hooked and needed to devour it. I swear, the pages started flying through my fingers!
Winter was your typical shy girl. She had insecurities about her looks and purposely made herself "invisible" by having a shinning star for her best friend. She knew that she was often thought of as "that girl who hangs with Jasmine", and was just fine with that. I thought it wonderful that she was so self aware. She recognized her faults. She also recognized the faults of others and considered them part of their personalities. Whether it be Jasmine's daily dramas in her self-centered little world or her sister Lucy's stickybeakishness. She was wise for her young age.
Another thing that really struck home for me was the way Winter was with her sister. I really loved it. Her behavior was so realistic and spot on that it still boggles my mind that Hearle was able to capture it in words and put it on paper.
Blake was quite a mystery through most of this book. You knew that there was something up with him but what was it? He was hiding something that was for sure. That was another reason why I gobbled this book down. The mystery of what both he and the strange happenings that kept occurring were was something that I needed to find out.
I had two issues with this book that brought it from a five to a four for me. The first one is the way the book made me feel. Or should I say not feel? While yes I felt excited and drawn into the plot, I didn't feel all the emotion that the characters were feeling. I didn't feel the romance that was happening between our two main characters. For example, my favorite line in the book is from a love letter that Blake wrote to another girl. I mean, I read the words but the sensations weren't palpable for me like Winter's feelings for Jasmine or Lucy. The second problem that I had for this book is very simple. I guessed the answer to big "second floor" mystery about halfway through the book. It sorta took away from the big action scene for me.
Though I guessed the great twist in the ending before I read it I would read this book again. The world that Hearle created is extremely original. I truly have not read anything like it before. Trust me when I say that M.J. Hearle is an author that we are going to hear more from.
***At the moment this book is only released in Australia.
December 3, 2012
For those who follow our blog you all know by now that we love and I mean LOVE Aussie books and Aussie authors, this book is no exception. Winter's Shadow is writing at it's finest and I am so in love with M.J. Hearle.
Winter's Shadow starts off with Winter's meeting with Blake our resident hottie/bad boy/mysterious guy. He is everything that you want in your paranormal bad boy and when he saves Winter's life she quickly becomes entranced by him. Their chemistry is off the charts and I loved how the author dragged out their story. And I say dragged out in the best way possible. It felt like breathing, every sentence was in inhale and an exhale just so beyond brilliant. Blake and Winter were amazing characters, they complimented each other very well and well I have a soft spot for guys who protect their ladies. Blake is fierce and scary but you can't help but fall for him and his tormented ways. Winter, and can I just say that I love that name, was not your typical heroine and I loved her for that. The story has a very unique twist and I have to say it was amazing! I can't say I have ever read a book like this before and it just goes to show you that Aussie's definitely have something in their water.
M.J. Hearle has crafted something that is so unique and different and I can't wait to read the sequel!! If you are looking for a new and refreshing paranormal then you really need to grab this book!
Winter's Shadow starts off with Winter's meeting with Blake our resident hottie/bad boy/mysterious guy. He is everything that you want in your paranormal bad boy and when he saves Winter's life she quickly becomes entranced by him. Their chemistry is off the charts and I loved how the author dragged out their story. And I say dragged out in the best way possible. It felt like breathing, every sentence was in inhale and an exhale just so beyond brilliant. Blake and Winter were amazing characters, they complimented each other very well and well I have a soft spot for guys who protect their ladies. Blake is fierce and scary but you can't help but fall for him and his tormented ways. Winter, and can I just say that I love that name, was not your typical heroine and I loved her for that. The story has a very unique twist and I have to say it was amazing! I can't say I have ever read a book like this before and it just goes to show you that Aussie's definitely have something in their water.
M.J. Hearle has crafted something that is so unique and different and I can't wait to read the sequel!! If you are looking for a new and refreshing paranormal then you really need to grab this book!
August 10, 2020
2016 Reading Challenge:24. Un libro cuyo protagonista tenga tu ocupación.
Hubo cosas que me gustaron y otras que no, pero de forma general, el libro estuvo bien :).
Hubo cosas que me gustaron y otras que no, pero de forma general, el libro estuvo bien :).
March 21, 2011
It has been six months since Winter’s parents died. Six months and Winter is barely coping with the swamp of school work and a guilty conscience. Her sister, Lucy, has put her life and university studies on hold to become Winter’s guardian . . . and how does Winter repay her? By getting behind in her school work and being forced to join the school paper for extra credit in photography.
And so one morning Winter finds herself atop Owl Mountain, taking photos of an old church for the upcoming newspaper edition. It is here that Winter first spies the mysterious new boy in town, Blake Duchamp. Not only does Winter meet him, she is saved by him – from the church’s collapsing roof. Blake is Winter’s knight in shining armour – disconcertingly handsome, kind, and for some strange reason he’s interested in Winter . . .
Blake lives in the haunted Velasco House. Residents of Hagan’s Bluff have been whispering warnings about the Velasco place for as long as Winter can remember . . . but as his story unfolds, it becomes clear that the only ghosts living in Velasco are the ones Blake bought with him, literally. Someone lives in the rooms above – playing music and laughing at Blake’s folly as he tries to resist the temptation that Winter poses.
Because Blake is dangerous. He is doomed and damned, and the last thing Winter needs is to fall in love with him . . .
M.J. Hearle’s debut novel is an ode to Gothicism – a sinister feast of fancy that draws comparisons to every dark tale, from ‘Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ to ‘Jane Eyre’ and Edgar Allan Poe.
I will warn readers that ‘Winter’s Shadow’ has a slow start. Hearle revels in writing ambiance . . . before any of the action really begins; he takes time to tease-out the intrigue. He casts his characters in doom and desperation and sets the stage for a Machiavellian tale. It’s sinisterly delightful, if a little slow going.
Juxtaposed with Winter and Blake’s narrative is a flashback story set in 1878 and travelling between Paris, Munich and many places in between. The reader follows the tragic journey of Madeleine Bonnaire . . . a woman who flees her tormenting husband, only to fall in love with the equally dangerous and mysterious Ariman. I must admit, the story of Madeleine often seemed jarring and disconnected from Winter and Blake’s tale, and it’s not until roughly page-236 that the pieces of Madeleine’s puzzle start to fall into place and connect with the present-day. Readers will enjoy trying to guess the correlation between Madeleine’s past and Winter’s present, but it’s a curveball you won’t see coming until it’s too late . . .
I really loved the character of Blake Duchamp. Hearle offers Blake’s perspective haphazardly throughout the book, but never gives anything away. In fact, having Blake narrate only adds to his intrigue. Blake spends most of the book thinking himself unworthy of Winter’s affections. Meanwhile, mysterious laughter drifts down from the top-storey rooms of Velasco house, a maniacal manifest of Blake’s inner cynic;
A horrible rasping sound echoed from the floor above, shattering the silence of the old house. The cats scampered away in terror, disappearing into the shadows. The sound grew in volume. Laughter.
It was laughing at him.
I was constantly guessing about Blake’s character. Did I trust him? Should Winter be with him? What is he hiding and is he really as bad as he thinks himself to be? I kept trying to guess at Blake’s ‘secret’, and while I came pretty close in my assumptions, Hearle really does excel in making the character (and his mythical background) all his own. The world-building is quite artful and original (not a vampire or werewolf in sight!);
Winter dreamt that she awoke in the middle of the night to see Blake standing at the foot of her bed, his eyes burning with green fire, illuminating the darkness.
He didn’t say anything, just stood there watching her sadly. It made her heart ache to see him looking so mournful, and she tried to tell him that it was all right, that everything would be fine, but when she spoke no sound came out of her mouth. There was just the roar of the ocean and the sound of bells chiming in the distance.
If I have any complaints about ‘Winter’s Shadow’, it’s the (lack of) scene-setting. I have been reading some fantastic Australian fantasy novels lately. Between Jessica Shirvington, Kirsty Eagar and Marianne de Pierres, the land of Oz has been churning out some stellar young adult paranormal/fantasy books. One of the reasons I love reading Australian YA is the scene-setting – I loved Eagar’s ‘Saltwater Vampires’ for the way she manipulated the iconic Australian beach into something dark and sinister, an unlikely backdrop for her vampire tale to play out. So I went into ‘Winter’s Shadow’ excited that another author would utilize the Aussie scenery.
The story is set in the fictional town of Hagan’s Bluff. The opening chapters were promising, as Winter ventures to Owl Mountain for a school photography assignment. It seemed certain that Hagan’s Bluff would be a little Australian country town. But as the story unfolds it becomes (un)clear that Hagan’s Bluff could be in England, America or Australia – it’s a hazy background, at best. And I found myself wishing that Hearle had utilized landscape more – especially because he makes so many references to the importance of setting in Gothicism. Hearle mentions the moors in Emily Brontë’s ‘Wuthering Heights’, and Winter draws a comparison between Blake’s Velasco house and the house of Usher in Poe’s famous short story. I just think he missed a few opportunities to enrich the story and cast a more sinister backdrop for Winter’s tale to unfold. If he’d only written about the screaming magpies of the morning or the twisted limbs of the Owl Mountain gumtrees . . . anything to orientate the reader by casting a more precise scene and grounding the characters.
‘Winter’s Shadow’ is an incredible YA debut from Aussie author M.J. Hearle. I'm not sure if this debut is a stand alone, or the first in a series? I really hope there’s more to come, if only because Hearle has tapped into a fancifully frightening fantasy topic that’s unique to for the YA genre. ‘Winter’s Shadow’ is a gloriously Gothic young adult tale of love, redemption, and the monster in all of us . . .
And so one morning Winter finds herself atop Owl Mountain, taking photos of an old church for the upcoming newspaper edition. It is here that Winter first spies the mysterious new boy in town, Blake Duchamp. Not only does Winter meet him, she is saved by him – from the church’s collapsing roof. Blake is Winter’s knight in shining armour – disconcertingly handsome, kind, and for some strange reason he’s interested in Winter . . .
Blake lives in the haunted Velasco House. Residents of Hagan’s Bluff have been whispering warnings about the Velasco place for as long as Winter can remember . . . but as his story unfolds, it becomes clear that the only ghosts living in Velasco are the ones Blake bought with him, literally. Someone lives in the rooms above – playing music and laughing at Blake’s folly as he tries to resist the temptation that Winter poses.
Because Blake is dangerous. He is doomed and damned, and the last thing Winter needs is to fall in love with him . . .
M.J. Hearle’s debut novel is an ode to Gothicism – a sinister feast of fancy that draws comparisons to every dark tale, from ‘Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ to ‘Jane Eyre’ and Edgar Allan Poe.
I will warn readers that ‘Winter’s Shadow’ has a slow start. Hearle revels in writing ambiance . . . before any of the action really begins; he takes time to tease-out the intrigue. He casts his characters in doom and desperation and sets the stage for a Machiavellian tale. It’s sinisterly delightful, if a little slow going.
Juxtaposed with Winter and Blake’s narrative is a flashback story set in 1878 and travelling between Paris, Munich and many places in between. The reader follows the tragic journey of Madeleine Bonnaire . . . a woman who flees her tormenting husband, only to fall in love with the equally dangerous and mysterious Ariman. I must admit, the story of Madeleine often seemed jarring and disconnected from Winter and Blake’s tale, and it’s not until roughly page-236 that the pieces of Madeleine’s puzzle start to fall into place and connect with the present-day. Readers will enjoy trying to guess the correlation between Madeleine’s past and Winter’s present, but it’s a curveball you won’t see coming until it’s too late . . .
I really loved the character of Blake Duchamp. Hearle offers Blake’s perspective haphazardly throughout the book, but never gives anything away. In fact, having Blake narrate only adds to his intrigue. Blake spends most of the book thinking himself unworthy of Winter’s affections. Meanwhile, mysterious laughter drifts down from the top-storey rooms of Velasco house, a maniacal manifest of Blake’s inner cynic;
A horrible rasping sound echoed from the floor above, shattering the silence of the old house. The cats scampered away in terror, disappearing into the shadows. The sound grew in volume. Laughter.
It was laughing at him.
I was constantly guessing about Blake’s character. Did I trust him? Should Winter be with him? What is he hiding and is he really as bad as he thinks himself to be? I kept trying to guess at Blake’s ‘secret’, and while I came pretty close in my assumptions, Hearle really does excel in making the character (and his mythical background) all his own. The world-building is quite artful and original (not a vampire or werewolf in sight!);
Winter dreamt that she awoke in the middle of the night to see Blake standing at the foot of her bed, his eyes burning with green fire, illuminating the darkness.
He didn’t say anything, just stood there watching her sadly. It made her heart ache to see him looking so mournful, and she tried to tell him that it was all right, that everything would be fine, but when she spoke no sound came out of her mouth. There was just the roar of the ocean and the sound of bells chiming in the distance.
If I have any complaints about ‘Winter’s Shadow’, it’s the (lack of) scene-setting. I have been reading some fantastic Australian fantasy novels lately. Between Jessica Shirvington, Kirsty Eagar and Marianne de Pierres, the land of Oz has been churning out some stellar young adult paranormal/fantasy books. One of the reasons I love reading Australian YA is the scene-setting – I loved Eagar’s ‘Saltwater Vampires’ for the way she manipulated the iconic Australian beach into something dark and sinister, an unlikely backdrop for her vampire tale to play out. So I went into ‘Winter’s Shadow’ excited that another author would utilize the Aussie scenery.
The story is set in the fictional town of Hagan’s Bluff. The opening chapters were promising, as Winter ventures to Owl Mountain for a school photography assignment. It seemed certain that Hagan’s Bluff would be a little Australian country town. But as the story unfolds it becomes (un)clear that Hagan’s Bluff could be in England, America or Australia – it’s a hazy background, at best. And I found myself wishing that Hearle had utilized landscape more – especially because he makes so many references to the importance of setting in Gothicism. Hearle mentions the moors in Emily Brontë’s ‘Wuthering Heights’, and Winter draws a comparison between Blake’s Velasco house and the house of Usher in Poe’s famous short story. I just think he missed a few opportunities to enrich the story and cast a more sinister backdrop for Winter’s tale to unfold. If he’d only written about the screaming magpies of the morning or the twisted limbs of the Owl Mountain gumtrees . . . anything to orientate the reader by casting a more precise scene and grounding the characters.
‘Winter’s Shadow’ is an incredible YA debut from Aussie author M.J. Hearle. I'm not sure if this debut is a stand alone, or the first in a series? I really hope there’s more to come, if only because Hearle has tapped into a fancifully frightening fantasy topic that’s unique to for the YA genre. ‘Winter’s Shadow’ is a gloriously Gothic young adult tale of love, redemption, and the monster in all of us . . .
April 5, 2011
Forced to trudge all the way up Owl Mountain to take photo's of an old church for her school newspaper, Winter spies more than a pile of old rubble behind her camera lens. A young man with the most hypnotic, luminous emerald eyes - eyes that literally root a person to the spot. Eyes that scream more than 'human'. When Black Duchamp saves Winter's life only moments later from the collapsing church - everything changes.
Blake is new to town, having just bought the old haunted Velasco place. The one with a tainted history. We soon learn there's definitely something strange about that house, however it seems more likely that it's something tied to Blake rather than a grisly murder from decades past. Since meeting Blake, Winter can't help but notice strange things suddenly happening in her life and the fact that she keeps seeing three frightening shadows following her that definitely don't appear to embody a warm and fuzzy side. But what exactly is Blake? Should she trust him? Or has he really come to town with a much more sinister plan in play?
There's a creepy sense of foreboding lingering throughout the novel. We're giving deliciously vague hints as to what thing is lurking in Blake's attic, what dark secrets lie behind emerald eyes and what surprising forces our young heroine is truly capable of. The not-knowing is what makes it what makes it such a page-turner, because you want to uncover it's spooky secrets and finally be able to unlock the mysteries that have taunted you every page.
The mythology Hearle has crafted is fantastic. With a constant stream of paranormal romances rushing the YA market every year, many seem to tackle the same thing - vampires, werewolves, etc. But let's just say Blake won't be sprouting a tail anytime soon. His secrets are dangerous, he belongs to a world far removed from what Winter has grown up with, but are his intentions to harm her or save her?
Throughout the novel we're given flashbacks to a woman who lived in the 1800's, whose story inexplicably has ties to the present day. The flashbacks and sporadic insights into Blake's thoughts were a great addition, fueling the intrigue and mystery. We're given tantalising hints urging you to try piece together the puzzle, but while you may gain some idea what is going on, on the whole you're left sitting there thinking 'WHAT?!' - and then you reach the point where everything finally begins to tie together and you realise what brilliant talent the author has.
The second half of the book moves faster than the first, as the action intensifies and revelations are made. The first half is slower paced and sets the tone of the book. While in the beginning I did find some of the narration to seem a little 'mature' for Winter since she's not exactly doing well in school, I soon got lost in the writing as I turned each page and more clues came to light. I wanted solve this captivating tale and when I finally did, I was not disappointed.
The ending is saddening, but gives hope and it's definitely set up for a sequel. I think I read that this is the first book in a trilogy, so I'm excited to see everything we learned explored more in the following books. The supernatural element is definitely something I want to see more.
Winter's Shadow is a suspenseful novel that offers a haunting romance and compelling mythology unlike any I had read before. I was left me perched on the edge of my seat as the mystery unfolded. I love seeing Australian authors making their own imprint on the YA genre and Winter's Shadow is a welcome addition to paranormal romance lovers, offering it's own new and exciting story that I'm sure many people will love!
Blake is new to town, having just bought the old haunted Velasco place. The one with a tainted history. We soon learn there's definitely something strange about that house, however it seems more likely that it's something tied to Blake rather than a grisly murder from decades past. Since meeting Blake, Winter can't help but notice strange things suddenly happening in her life and the fact that she keeps seeing three frightening shadows following her that definitely don't appear to embody a warm and fuzzy side. But what exactly is Blake? Should she trust him? Or has he really come to town with a much more sinister plan in play?
There's a creepy sense of foreboding lingering throughout the novel. We're giving deliciously vague hints as to what thing is lurking in Blake's attic, what dark secrets lie behind emerald eyes and what surprising forces our young heroine is truly capable of. The not-knowing is what makes it what makes it such a page-turner, because you want to uncover it's spooky secrets and finally be able to unlock the mysteries that have taunted you every page.
The mythology Hearle has crafted is fantastic. With a constant stream of paranormal romances rushing the YA market every year, many seem to tackle the same thing - vampires, werewolves, etc. But let's just say Blake won't be sprouting a tail anytime soon. His secrets are dangerous, he belongs to a world far removed from what Winter has grown up with, but are his intentions to harm her or save her?
Throughout the novel we're given flashbacks to a woman who lived in the 1800's, whose story inexplicably has ties to the present day. The flashbacks and sporadic insights into Blake's thoughts were a great addition, fueling the intrigue and mystery. We're given tantalising hints urging you to try piece together the puzzle, but while you may gain some idea what is going on, on the whole you're left sitting there thinking 'WHAT?!' - and then you reach the point where everything finally begins to tie together and you realise what brilliant talent the author has.
The second half of the book moves faster than the first, as the action intensifies and revelations are made. The first half is slower paced and sets the tone of the book. While in the beginning I did find some of the narration to seem a little 'mature' for Winter since she's not exactly doing well in school, I soon got lost in the writing as I turned each page and more clues came to light. I wanted solve this captivating tale and when I finally did, I was not disappointed.
The ending is saddening, but gives hope and it's definitely set up for a sequel. I think I read that this is the first book in a trilogy, so I'm excited to see everything we learned explored more in the following books. The supernatural element is definitely something I want to see more.
Winter's Shadow is a suspenseful novel that offers a haunting romance and compelling mythology unlike any I had read before. I was left me perched on the edge of my seat as the mystery unfolded. I love seeing Australian authors making their own imprint on the YA genre and Winter's Shadow is a welcome addition to paranormal romance lovers, offering it's own new and exciting story that I'm sure many people will love!
January 15, 2013
3.5 stars
One of the things which made me angry:
Imagine that you were kidnapped and you refused to do what your kidnappers wanted you to. One of them would say:
‘This here is a very special artefact. It’s called a Witching Stone,’ he continued, letting the medallion swing in the air like a pendulum. ‘There doesn’t appear to be anything remarkable about it, but if you look closely at the ruby you can see a light hidden in its depths. Can you see it, Winter?’
What would you do? Would you:
A.close your eyes
or B. study the ruby, fascinated by the light it emanates?
A few pages later:
‘Continue? What were you doing to me?’ Winter asked, trying to clear her head of the strange fog that clouded it.
insert the villain's answer
‘You’re trying to hypnotise me?’
No, Winter, they were trying to distract you, so that they could surprise you with a big present. Don't you like surprises?
There were some scenes (including the one above) when I thought: "Winter, where have you left your brain? Please don't be so stupid." but fortunately not many.
The narrative is flowing and compelling, Hearle knows his way with words, but the plot is sometimes a little predictable. The thing which bothered me the most was the romance. Blake is almost flawless, gorgeous and physically perfect, while Winter is just an average girl (I mean her looks and intelligence), neverthless she is beautiful in Blake's eyes. And of course they fall in love with each other impossibly fast. He has a secret, he is dangerous for her... Well, you can see where I'm going.
However, I liked it. The romance annoyed me a bit, still the story managed to draw me in and that's what matters. The supernatural aspect of this novel was what I found the best, but I can't tell you more about it without spoilers.
And what's up with the sequels? This book doesn't need any, it shouldn't have any!
One of the things which made me angry:
Imagine that you were kidnapped and you refused to do what your kidnappers wanted you to. One of them would say:
‘This here is a very special artefact. It’s called a Witching Stone,’ he continued, letting the medallion swing in the air like a pendulum. ‘There doesn’t appear to be anything remarkable about it, but if you look closely at the ruby you can see a light hidden in its depths. Can you see it, Winter?’
What would you do? Would you:
A.close your eyes
or B. study the ruby, fascinated by the light it emanates?
A few pages later:
‘Continue? What were you doing to me?’ Winter asked, trying to clear her head of the strange fog that clouded it.
insert the villain's answer
‘You’re trying to hypnotise me?’
No, Winter, they were trying to distract you, so that they could surprise you with a big present. Don't you like surprises?
There were some scenes (including the one above) when I thought: "Winter, where have you left your brain? Please don't be so stupid." but fortunately not many.
The narrative is flowing and compelling, Hearle knows his way with words, but the plot is sometimes a little predictable. The thing which bothered me the most was the romance. Blake is almost flawless, gorgeous and physically perfect, while Winter is just an average girl (I mean her looks and intelligence), neverthless she is beautiful in Blake's eyes. And of course they fall in love with each other impossibly fast. He has a secret, he is dangerous for her... Well, you can see where I'm going.
However, I liked it. The romance annoyed me a bit, still the story managed to draw me in and that's what matters. The supernatural aspect of this novel was what I found the best, but I can't tell you more about it without spoilers.
And what's up with the sequels? This book doesn't need any, it shouldn't have any!
March 18, 2012
How can you love a book so much and hate it so much as well with the same passion all the same time? That's what Winter's Shadow did to me and that means that it was that awesome. I got hooked from start to finish and could hardly put it down. My good friend had to pry me away from it. I won't go into all the details but just what I thought. The premise and plot were great; it was different and nothing that I had expected. I couldn't put my finger on what exactly Blake was. That was pretty good because the blurb on the cover didn't give anything away. I'm not going to compare it with Twilight or any other books out there either. It's irritating that every YA Paranormal Romances simply had to be compared alongside Twilight. C'mon, Twilight had its glorious moments. Move aside and make way for the new!
Back to review. The story had enough of mystery, creepiness and eeriness to arouse the solid and avid bookworm in me. There were many books that do not grip me from the beginning and after a few chapters in, I would simply cast them aside until the time comes when I would pick it up again. Winter's Shadow wasn't one of them. Congratulations, you are enlisted in my Book of Fame. I'm pretty generous with my reviews. *ahem*
Winter is a really beautiful name. I like Winter enough. She's a pretty strong character and nothing at all like Bella. Why would people say that she's like Bella, I have no effing idea. Bella is Bella. Winter is Winter. But, demerit points for her when she ditched Jasmine. Love is the greatest after all. Who can blame her. Blake is swoonworthy and NOT similar to Edward Cullen for pete's sake! There are two different characters. If people keep similarizing (if that's even a word!) beautiful, mysterious, self proclaimed dangerous male leads to Edward "Sparkling" Cullen, I think I would have already given up reading YA Paranormals. As Mr. Hearle has pointed in one of his blog post, all these similarizing traits and relationship angle thingies are simply frameworks with empty canvases. They are foundations and basic tools authors use to start painting the sceneries and transforming them into something of their very own. So, quit comparing this and other books to Twilight.
As much as I loved the story and the characters - bonus points for no hate-table characters -, I could fairly predict certain things (can't think of another word for "thing" at the moment) in the novel. I will not hint or reveal what they are here as I do not want to spoil the story for those haven't read it yet. Another thing that bothered me slightly was Winter and Blake's relationship. I felt that their time spent getting to know each other was not long enough to fully convince me (even Winter herself said so. See?). Maybe I should adjust my logicality mode into paranormal mode. Nothing is normal in books. They are supposed to be unearthly after all. That's what books are for - to me at least. But Mr. Hearle seems to know what I was thinking because I found a passage in the book that summed up perfectly what I was questioning:
"I don’t think time matters. You might have known each other for a hundred years or a minute and it wouldn’t have changed a thing about the way he felt about you. People go their whole life without finding something that special."
Other than that, I have no more complaints about Winter's Shadow. It is a tender, poignant and touching story that succeeded in invoking painful emotions within me. The ending tore at my heart and I felt like I could literally feel Winter's heartbreak. And that is why I hate this book so much. I hate the ending because I love the story too much to want it to end that way. It is so cruel to leave readers hanging like that. Very cruel indeed Mr. Hearle. *pouts*
I'm craving for the sequel, Winter's Light, but have to wait at least a whole freaking year for it to be released. If only I have some tiny hints to what is awaiting me in Winter's Light, I might be a tad comforted over my frustrations on the ending. I just refuse to accept what became of *him*. Arghh!!
And thus, I end my review and ramblings.
Back to review. The story had enough of mystery, creepiness and eeriness to arouse the solid and avid bookworm in me. There were many books that do not grip me from the beginning and after a few chapters in, I would simply cast them aside until the time comes when I would pick it up again. Winter's Shadow wasn't one of them. Congratulations, you are enlisted in my Book of Fame. I'm pretty generous with my reviews. *ahem*
Winter is a really beautiful name. I like Winter enough. She's a pretty strong character and nothing at all like Bella. Why would people say that she's like Bella, I have no effing idea. Bella is Bella. Winter is Winter. But, demerit points for her when she ditched Jasmine. Love is the greatest after all. Who can blame her. Blake is swoonworthy and NOT similar to Edward Cullen for pete's sake! There are two different characters. If people keep similarizing (if that's even a word!) beautiful, mysterious, self proclaimed dangerous male leads to Edward "Sparkling" Cullen, I think I would have already given up reading YA Paranormals. As Mr. Hearle has pointed in one of his blog post, all these similarizing traits and relationship angle thingies are simply frameworks with empty canvases. They are foundations and basic tools authors use to start painting the sceneries and transforming them into something of their very own. So, quit comparing this and other books to Twilight.
As much as I loved the story and the characters - bonus points for no hate-table characters -, I could fairly predict certain things (can't think of another word for "thing" at the moment) in the novel. I will not hint or reveal what they are here as I do not want to spoil the story for those haven't read it yet. Another thing that bothered me slightly was Winter and Blake's relationship. I felt that their time spent getting to know each other was not long enough to fully convince me (even Winter herself said so. See?). Maybe I should adjust my logicality mode into paranormal mode. Nothing is normal in books. They are supposed to be unearthly after all. That's what books are for - to me at least. But Mr. Hearle seems to know what I was thinking because I found a passage in the book that summed up perfectly what I was questioning:
"I don’t think time matters. You might have known each other for a hundred years or a minute and it wouldn’t have changed a thing about the way he felt about you. People go their whole life without finding something that special."
Other than that, I have no more complaints about Winter's Shadow. It is a tender, poignant and touching story that succeeded in invoking painful emotions within me. The ending tore at my heart and I felt like I could literally feel Winter's heartbreak. And that is why I hate this book so much. I hate the ending because I love the story too much to want it to end that way. It is so cruel to leave readers hanging like that. Very cruel indeed Mr. Hearle. *pouts*
I'm craving for the sequel, Winter's Light, but have to wait at least a whole freaking year for it to be released. If only I have some tiny hints to what is awaiting me in Winter's Light, I might be a tad comforted over my frustrations on the ending. I just refuse to accept what became of *him*. Arghh!!
And thus, I end my review and ramblings.
May 26, 2011
*This book was sent to me from the publisher Pan Macmillian Australia*
I loved this book. It drew me in and I couldn’t stop reading--I had to know what was going on!
This is a hauntingly beautiful debut. Author M. J. Hearle weaves together a stunning gothic tale that mesmerised me and captivated me from the beginning.
While I’ll be the first to admit the story starts out slow, weaving together and setting the story up, it’s in no way boring or uninteresting. The mystery and little bits and pieces that are thrown in here and there keep you entertained and eager to know what truly is going on. The idea of this story and the theme of the plotline are unique and not like a lot of books out there--the story is eerie and exciting at the same time.
Hearle writes beautifully. His writing flows and paints a dark picture that is beautiful. I admit I was a tad worried going into this book. Sometimes I find that male writers never really capture the essence of the heroine when their lead character is female. And yet Hearle has no problems here what-so-ever. I honestly loved Winter. He’s written her perfectly, making her easy to emphasise with and with a feminine voice. She was a terrific heroine, everything I could have asked for in this tale; realistic and normal, and yet brave and interesting--exactly what you need in these kind of supernatural tales. She reacted how I expect a normal person would when thrust into this kind of world making her someone that you actually enjoy following along on her journey.
As for Blake, well he was intriguing to say the least. One of the things I actually enjoyed so much about this book was the mystery surrounding Blake. Throughout the majority of the tale we never know exactly what Blake is or who he is---we simply know he’s different and that he draws Winter who can’t deny he’s like no one she’s ever known. Blake was a very haunted young man, with many a secret. He was mysterious and it was impossible not to feel the drawl he had that Winter felt.
I only have one issue with this book, and it’s one that tends to impact on my feelings about a lot of books, especially paranormal YA. I’m not the biggest fan of the quick lust/desire-at-fist-sight, I-need-you-from-the-very-beginning type of romance. It’s impossible not to see, and feel, the passion in this book. It saturates the pages and heightens the emotions, however the characters barely know one another. Taking place over the course of a week, is it really possible to feel that deeply about a person so soon? I must say however that Hearle doesn’t rely on this and place such a big importance on this as other writers do. It’s there, it is, but it’s not there to the same extent as I have seen a lot in the past. It’s not sickening (thank god) and it didn’t bother me as much as it normally would, seeing as the brilliance of this novel made up for it.
This book is a tantalizing read with a great range of characters from the main two, Winter and Blake, to the few others that help to give the book flavour and difference. The ending is gripping and exciting and I could not stop reading! I needed to know what was going to happen next and the last few chapters had me needing the second, yet to be named book, stat!
This book will entice you and draw you in and I recommend it to fans of the gothic and paranormal alike!
I loved this book. It drew me in and I couldn’t stop reading--I had to know what was going on!
This is a hauntingly beautiful debut. Author M. J. Hearle weaves together a stunning gothic tale that mesmerised me and captivated me from the beginning.
While I’ll be the first to admit the story starts out slow, weaving together and setting the story up, it’s in no way boring or uninteresting. The mystery and little bits and pieces that are thrown in here and there keep you entertained and eager to know what truly is going on. The idea of this story and the theme of the plotline are unique and not like a lot of books out there--the story is eerie and exciting at the same time.
Hearle writes beautifully. His writing flows and paints a dark picture that is beautiful. I admit I was a tad worried going into this book. Sometimes I find that male writers never really capture the essence of the heroine when their lead character is female. And yet Hearle has no problems here what-so-ever. I honestly loved Winter. He’s written her perfectly, making her easy to emphasise with and with a feminine voice. She was a terrific heroine, everything I could have asked for in this tale; realistic and normal, and yet brave and interesting--exactly what you need in these kind of supernatural tales. She reacted how I expect a normal person would when thrust into this kind of world making her someone that you actually enjoy following along on her journey.
As for Blake, well he was intriguing to say the least. One of the things I actually enjoyed so much about this book was the mystery surrounding Blake. Throughout the majority of the tale we never know exactly what Blake is or who he is---we simply know he’s different and that he draws Winter who can’t deny he’s like no one she’s ever known. Blake was a very haunted young man, with many a secret. He was mysterious and it was impossible not to feel the drawl he had that Winter felt.
I only have one issue with this book, and it’s one that tends to impact on my feelings about a lot of books, especially paranormal YA. I’m not the biggest fan of the quick lust/desire-at-fist-sight, I-need-you-from-the-very-beginning type of romance. It’s impossible not to see, and feel, the passion in this book. It saturates the pages and heightens the emotions, however the characters barely know one another. Taking place over the course of a week, is it really possible to feel that deeply about a person so soon? I must say however that Hearle doesn’t rely on this and place such a big importance on this as other writers do. It’s there, it is, but it’s not there to the same extent as I have seen a lot in the past. It’s not sickening (thank god) and it didn’t bother me as much as it normally would, seeing as the brilliance of this novel made up for it.
This book is a tantalizing read with a great range of characters from the main two, Winter and Blake, to the few others that help to give the book flavour and difference. The ending is gripping and exciting and I could not stop reading! I needed to know what was going to happen next and the last few chapters had me needing the second, yet to be named book, stat!
This book will entice you and draw you in and I recommend it to fans of the gothic and paranormal alike!
April 11, 2012
This book was a breath of fresh air and I can't believe not many people have taken the time to read it!! I found it to be highly unique and very interesting indeed.
The story follows the life of Winter who is the photographer for her school newspaper. On assignment at an abandoned Church she sees an alluring and enigmatic man standing by a grave. Enter Blake, who is literally not like anyone that Winter has ever met. She becomes intrigued by him and soon discovers his secret and what he can do. Her life is literally turned upside down.
Full of suspense, mystery, twists and turns and one killer cliffhanger that will have you literally crying and screaming out NOOOOOO!! I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a paranormal romance but with a unique twist!! Loved it!!
The story follows the life of Winter who is the photographer for her school newspaper. On assignment at an abandoned Church she sees an alluring and enigmatic man standing by a grave. Enter Blake, who is literally not like anyone that Winter has ever met. She becomes intrigued by him and soon discovers his secret and what he can do. Her life is literally turned upside down.
Full of suspense, mystery, twists and turns and one killer cliffhanger that will have you literally crying and screaming out NOOOOOO!! I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a paranormal romance but with a unique twist!! Loved it!!
maybe-reads
October 26, 2011Yet another Australian book I'll have to wait for (just like with Burn Bright). . .
April 12, 2014
Winter’s Shadow felt too much like other YA titles on the market for me to really enjoy it. While I’m proud that more Aussie authors are taking their place on the YA shelves, the first half of this debut novel from M.J. Hearle felt lacking and a little useless.
I really felt that M.J. Hearle tried to write something that was ‘out of the norm’ for YA readers, but despite his original ideas for the mythology and creatures that feature in Winter’s Shadow, the book followed the same forumala I’ve seen time and time again…
Girl meets mysterious guy and even though she’s nothing stunning and he’s model-worthy, he seems to take an interest in her! Cue the annoying best friend and cut to near death situation featuring our heroine. Mysterious Guy saves her – he just had to despite his senses telling him it was a bad idea – and Heroine and Mysterious Guy start hanging out. Turns out Heroine has something that makes her different from everyone else in Mysterious Guy’s eyes – she’s got powers, too, and she didn’t even know it. Oh, and her parents are dead.
I fall into these traps way too easily, it seems. The first half of the book, in hindsight, felt pretty useless. The book is over 400 pages long and I felt a good number of those pages could have been sized down. Most of the real ‘action’ only happened in the second half. This would be alright if there seemed to be some strong character building, but even though I knew the basic facts about Winter and her history, I felt like I didn’t ‘know’ her or even want to know her. She seemed a little too generic for me. I wasn’t fond of Blake, either. I felt this was a huge hole in the story – that I didn’t like either of these characters – and I think that really changed my opinion of the book.
If you’ve been following my goodreads updates for this book, you’ll see that it’s taken over a week for me to read Winter’s Shadow. I just couldn’t muster up the patience to delve back into it after I finished a few chapters (On the topic of chapters, another thing that irked me was how frequently they changed.) I had figured out the mystery of the attic pretty early on in the story, as well as the twist with the identity of the Bane. Though there was really nothing to keep my interest in the story going, I kept chugging on in hopes that the ending would make it all worthwhile.
I’m really disappointed that I didn’t enjoy Winter’s Shadow, especially since I’ve heard such rave reviews about the book from fellow readers and even enjoyed reading M.J.’s own blog on writing, etc. and got myself amped for this ones release. It’s my understanding that there’s a second book coming out, but I don’t think I’ll pick it up.
Winter’s Shadow will have an audience who adores it, I have no doubt about that, but unfortunately I’m just not part of it. As I’ll say below, I recommend it to people who haven’t read this YA storyline over and over again over the past few years.
Recommended to: Readers who are delving into paranormal/supernatural YA for the first time and aren’t overly familiar with the predictable plots.
August 5, 2011
With M.J Hearle's debut we are introduced to a talented novelist with an unmistakable flair for storytelling. If not wanting to set a book down while reading it is a barometer for deciding great fiction, then Winter's Shadow scores top marks. Hearle brings together elements of the Gothic, dark fantasy, paranormal romance, and horror genres and the result is something quite unique and compelling, from the pen of a truly gifted and talented writer.
Hearle's ability to portray a young woman so convincingly is impressive in itself and demonstrates a rare talent, reflecting an empathetic and compassionate author. Despite Winter's suffering, or perhaps because of it, Hearle gives us a protagonist who possesses a certain self-reliance and inner strength forged mainly from necessity, in many respects much like Bronte's Jane. Winter's awakening is conveyed through thoughtful and carefully crafted prose, Hearle masterfully giving us the story of an independent young woman undertaking a journey of discovery and awakening as she finds her place in the world.
The 'mad woman in the attic' motif is a powerful literary device and Hearle uses this with great skill, providing the reader with tantalising hints of the spectre lurking in the attic during the exposition and rising points of the novel, setting the stage for a truly frightening spectacle at the climax. Hearle's earlier descriptions of Claudette Duchamp might reflect a deliberate parallel to Jean Rhys' Antoinette Cosway: a mind once youthful and optimistic, eventually broken, mentally corrupted and ending in despair as Bertha Mason, confined to the attic of Thornfield Hall, or in this case Claudette imprisoned in the Velasco Place. Thus Winter's Shadow is not your run-of-the-mill paranormal romance: Hearle gives far more credit to his younger readers, and his refusal to patronise them with predictable plot devices, dumb action sequences and contrived love stories shines through, setting Hearle apart from his contemporaries and engendering a sense of endearment between author and reader.
The result is something fresh and much smarter than the usual suspects, leaving us waiting in anticipation for the sequel. Five stars.
Hearle's ability to portray a young woman so convincingly is impressive in itself and demonstrates a rare talent, reflecting an empathetic and compassionate author. Despite Winter's suffering, or perhaps because of it, Hearle gives us a protagonist who possesses a certain self-reliance and inner strength forged mainly from necessity, in many respects much like Bronte's Jane. Winter's awakening is conveyed through thoughtful and carefully crafted prose, Hearle masterfully giving us the story of an independent young woman undertaking a journey of discovery and awakening as she finds her place in the world.
The 'mad woman in the attic' motif is a powerful literary device and Hearle uses this with great skill, providing the reader with tantalising hints of the spectre lurking in the attic during the exposition and rising points of the novel, setting the stage for a truly frightening spectacle at the climax. Hearle's earlier descriptions of Claudette Duchamp might reflect a deliberate parallel to Jean Rhys' Antoinette Cosway: a mind once youthful and optimistic, eventually broken, mentally corrupted and ending in despair as Bertha Mason, confined to the attic of Thornfield Hall, or in this case Claudette imprisoned in the Velasco Place. Thus Winter's Shadow is not your run-of-the-mill paranormal romance: Hearle gives far more credit to his younger readers, and his refusal to patronise them with predictable plot devices, dumb action sequences and contrived love stories shines through, setting Hearle apart from his contemporaries and engendering a sense of endearment between author and reader.
The result is something fresh and much smarter than the usual suspects, leaving us waiting in anticipation for the sequel. Five stars.
July 6, 2011
I received this book as part of Darkfallen's "travelling book" as it is only being released in Australia.
I have to say I am very glad I signed up to be one of many readers of this book. This is an amazingly well written book. I love how the story progresses with the blooming romance between Winter and Blake along with suspense of who/what is chasing Winter and why; combined with Blake's tormented past and those who want to see his end. Excitement is throughout this book making it hard to put down; from the chase at the beginning to the battle at the end. Ah, what a book!
Now for the questions and the hopeful answers to be answered in a sequel:
1) Will Blake be able to return to Winter?
2) Will Sam return and what will his state of mind be?
3) Will Winter learn more about her gift as the "key" and what the "key" can actually do?
4) We learned of two worlds. Are there others and how will they play a part in the story?
5) Will the Skivers return or is Winter in the clear?
Here's to hoping for a sequel! And here's to hoping that this book will be picked up by a publisher and released in the US for everyone to enjoy!
Further, a link was provided for those who may wish to purchase this amazing book: http://thenile.com.au/books/MJ-Hearle...
Thanks Darkfallen for the opportunity to read such a great book!
I have to say I am very glad I signed up to be one of many readers of this book. This is an amazingly well written book. I love how the story progresses with the blooming romance between Winter and Blake along with suspense of who/what is chasing Winter and why; combined with Blake's tormented past and those who want to see his end. Excitement is throughout this book making it hard to put down; from the chase at the beginning to the battle at the end. Ah, what a book!
Now for the questions and the hopeful answers to be answered in a sequel:
1) Will Blake be able to return to Winter?
2) Will Sam return and what will his state of mind be?
3) Will Winter learn more about her gift as the "key" and what the "key" can actually do?
4) We learned of two worlds. Are there others and how will they play a part in the story?
5) Will the Skivers return or is Winter in the clear?
Here's to hoping for a sequel! And here's to hoping that this book will be picked up by a publisher and released in the US for everyone to enjoy!
Further, a link was provided for those who may wish to purchase this amazing book: http://thenile.com.au/books/MJ-Hearle...
Thanks Darkfallen for the opportunity to read such a great book!
August 3, 2011
First of all... A BIG THANK YOU TO Bloggerhood of the Traveling Book Tour: Winter's Shadow Edition at Paranormal Wastelands and Pan Macmillan AU.
Second... My review
When I read the summary, it looked interesting, but I wasn't sure what to think of it. So I was glad that I got to read it and see that it was really a good book.
A book that succeeds to get me into feeling the emotions of the characters, imagining the scenery and frustrating me when things don't go well for the characters always equals success in my eyes.
Though I didn't get to connect as much as I wanted with the characters, I still loved them and I actually pray that somehow in a near future we could hope for some kind of novella or sequel of this book to know more about them.
I also love how the book gave us glimpse from the past. Things made more sense sometimes to understand what was going on in the present.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. And I'd buy it if it was ever to be in store on this side of the planet.
Alert to anyone interested: M.J. Hearle is currently looking for a US publisher and I think it would be awesome if he succeeded.
Second... My review
When I read the summary, it looked interesting, but I wasn't sure what to think of it. So I was glad that I got to read it and see that it was really a good book.
A book that succeeds to get me into feeling the emotions of the characters, imagining the scenery and frustrating me when things don't go well for the characters always equals success in my eyes.
Though I didn't get to connect as much as I wanted with the characters, I still loved them and I actually pray that somehow in a near future we could hope for some kind of novella or sequel of this book to know more about them.
I also love how the book gave us glimpse from the past. Things made more sense sometimes to understand what was going on in the present.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. And I'd buy it if it was ever to be in store on this side of the planet.
Alert to anyone interested: M.J. Hearle is currently looking for a US publisher and I think it would be awesome if he succeeded.
April 24, 2015
Este libro se puede resumir en
y en
De verdad.
Qué grata sorpresa me he llevado con Winter's Shadow. No pensaba que me iba a gustar tanto. Really. Me ha encantado tanto la historia como los personajes y, en general, tooooodo!! Los Skivers estos me han recordado un montón a las tres moiras (o como se llamen) de Hércules cuando... cuando...
Cosa que lleva a más lágrimas.
¿Qué decir de Blake? Este personaje se ha llevado completamente mi corazón y... y... y...
No puedo esperar para leer el siguiente. 4'5 estrellas. ¡Totalmente recomendable!
y en
De verdad.
Qué grata sorpresa me he llevado con Winter's Shadow. No pensaba que me iba a gustar tanto. Really. Me ha encantado tanto la historia como los personajes y, en general, tooooodo!! Los Skivers estos me han recordado un montón a las tres moiras (o como se llamen) de Hércules cuando... cuando...
Cosa que lleva a más lágrimas.
¿Qué decir de Blake? Este personaje se ha llevado completamente mi corazón y... y... y...
No puedo esperar para leer el siguiente. 4'5 estrellas. ¡Totalmente recomendable!
June 22, 2011
She first saw those piercing green eyes, that saw deep into her soul, only minutes before her world came crashing down around her. He was nothing more then a shadow through her camera lens before he became her saviour and she was indebted to him more then she would know.
He spent his life on the run, moving about from place to place, running from those who chased him, running from the danger he possessed. Now, however, he was running out of time, her life was over before she knew it, but he would make it right, or at least he would try to. But you can't out run death.
Winter's Shadow is a love story that takes you through history reviling a past of family betrayal, passion, murder, monsters, magic and love. Blake makes the intimate sacrifice for love and in return Winter has the rest of her very long life to morn his gift. A dark, dangerous and original story of demon's and love that is a brilliant debut novel.
He spent his life on the run, moving about from place to place, running from those who chased him, running from the danger he possessed. Now, however, he was running out of time, her life was over before she knew it, but he would make it right, or at least he would try to. But you can't out run death.
Winter's Shadow is a love story that takes you through history reviling a past of family betrayal, passion, murder, monsters, magic and love. Blake makes the intimate sacrifice for love and in return Winter has the rest of her very long life to morn his gift. A dark, dangerous and original story of demon's and love that is a brilliant debut novel.
July 15, 2011
What starts off as a cliched love story , suddenly takes a mysterious and spooky turn .. Guess that is the best way i can describe this story . Absolutely love the cover , the color combination used ,the
picturesque is just breath taking . When i began reading this book it looked like it was just another paranormal love story but with certain dark twists to it , but as i read further i realised it was just no other love story . It was darker and spookier than what i had imagined it to be . Right now i'm kind of short on words to describe how i feel after reading this book , but i can definitely say that you wont be disappointed after reading this book . The supernatural element or the plot of the book was its most outstanding feat . Never before heard or seen creatures created by the author just added more awesomeness to the book . And to be honest , the ending made me cry a little . LOVED IT !!!!
picturesque is just breath taking . When i began reading this book it looked like it was just another paranormal love story but with certain dark twists to it , but as i read further i realised it was just no other love story . It was darker and spookier than what i had imagined it to be . Right now i'm kind of short on words to describe how i feel after reading this book , but i can definitely say that you wont be disappointed after reading this book . The supernatural element or the plot of the book was its most outstanding feat . Never before heard or seen creatures created by the author just added more awesomeness to the book . And to be honest , the ending made me cry a little . LOVED IT !!!!
June 13, 2011
I won this book through GoodReads FirstReads and was at first a little hesitant. I love the idea of YA paranormal but so many are badly written that I was worried that this would be another book with a good premise that it failed to live up to. I was wrong. This book is amazing. Winter is a fantastic main character. She is realistic, not a stereotype, and while she is not always strong (who is?), she is stronger than most of the protagonists populating YA paranormal novels. I also loved how the novel is strongly connected to the Gothic. It had all the elements of a good Gothic novel, which helped to create fantastic suspense and a really intriguing male protagonist. All in all, I can't wait until the sequel comes out. If this is M.J. Hearle's first novel then I can't wait to see what his second is like!
September 14, 2011
First of all, the cover...stunning.
Great story. Creepy, romantic and something different. The creatures in the book remind me alot of the Dementers in Harry Potter. I wonder if the author drew some inspiration from them. I loved Blake, he was intense and mysterious. I could have read more about his life growing up, really enjoyed it. The ending??? What will happen next. Cant wait to find out.
Great story. Creepy, romantic and something different. The creatures in the book remind me alot of the Dementers in Harry Potter. I wonder if the author drew some inspiration from them. I loved Blake, he was intense and mysterious. I could have read more about his life growing up, really enjoyed it. The ending??? What will happen next. Cant wait to find out.
August 24, 2011
Sometimes you do come across a book that touch you really really much and stays in your heart, this one does to me.
I only can say READ IT!! You will love the story and hate the story :-)
This is a very good writer and I´m really looking forward to read other books from him.
I only can say READ IT!! You will love the story and hate the story :-)
This is a very good writer and I´m really looking forward to read other books from him.
Read
June 21, 2016A unique mythology. Enjoyed it.
March 9, 2019
I wasn't going to write a review but i think it needs to be said. This book is good. Before you question it i hate romance in books so much. But i rated this 4 stars so i really enjoyed.
It was going to be 5 but how they killed so many cats just no.
I would suggest for people to read this
It was going to be 5 but how they killed so many cats just no.
I would suggest for people to read this
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