Because of Winter

by Nikki Brochetti

An unexpected dual-timeline historical mystery

"I was hooked from the first page!
An absolute page-turner, blending unforgettable characters with a gripping plot that kept me intrigued from start to finish.
My favorite read of 2024!!"
-Reader Review

What if the key to your future lies buried in the past?

Annapolis, Maryland, present day.
Lorna Brooks is still reeling from her husband's death when she begins seeing him in dreams, revealing clues about a 200-year-old mystery that’s torn his family apart.

Guided further by a newly discovered novel, she’s drawn into the past. But will uncovering hidden secrets bring much-needed healing, or unleash unforeseen chaos?

And is a mysterious man in town a chance for a renewed heart, or does he harbor secrets of his own?

Annapolis, Maryland, 1775.
Caroline Brooks, a spirited revolutionary, is determined to make her mark in a world that grants women few paths to independence.

Could financial freedom come from a priceless relic said to bring immense luck?

She’ll need just that after the sheriff accuses her of murder.

An immersive story that seamlessly weaves past and present, Because of Winter is filled with long-buried secrets and unexpected twists. It also celebrates the quiet courage of healing and the treasures uncovered in life's darkest seasons.

“I never wanted to put this story down and can’t stop thinking about it now that it’s over.”
-Reader Review

“With well-researched details taking place in the beautiful and historic towns of Annapolis, Maryland and Wilmington, North Carolina, the book unveils a suspenseful plot that is full of surprises, and a cast of wonderful characters. I can’t recommend this story enough!”
-Reader Review

384 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2024

About the author

As a former journalist and longtime fiction devotee, Nikki has always been intrigued by the power of a memorable story. How it can heal us. How it can grow us. And how it can unite us.
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If the story also happens to involve unforgettable characters, uncovering hidden secrets, and a few mysterious old homes woven throughout—all the better.
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Nikki grew up in Pennsylvania where she fell in love with her father's best friend's son.
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They live together in Annapolis, Maryland, with their four daughters, spoiled Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and mischievous Labrador.
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​In her free time, Nikki enjoys stand-up paddleboarding, quiet morning jogs, watching her daughters in their many endeavors, lunch dates with her husband at their favorite Irish pub, and delving into any good book she can get her hands on.

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved reading this locally set story!

[Gina Notes · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

Because of Winter was a beautiful quiet novel blending historical fiction, mystery and a bit of romance. As a Maryland resident, I found all of the history of Annapolis and surrounding areas fascinating and enjoyed the recap at the end which dove into which aspects of the book were based on fact or fiction. This was definitely a page-turner and the plot was engaging and well thought out, bouncing back and forth between the revolutionary era and present day. I would have liked a little more development of the characters and would have liked to have known them and their relationships a bit deeper. But overall, I really enjoyed this cozy work of historical fiction!

Special thanks to the author, Nikki Brochetti, for gifting me a copy of this book! I very much enjoyed reading it!

[Cindy Merritt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS BOOK! I haven’t stayed up reading into the night in a long time (since college!) but I did with this story. The characters were well developed, realistic, and engaging. The mystery was intriguing and kept me turning pages. The history around Annapolis was so interesting!

I’ve purchased several of these to give as gifts - perfect timing for the book’s release. I can’t wait for Nikki’s next book! I’ll be first in line to buy it.

[Lisa Brochetti · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Because of Winter” by Nikki Brochetti is a captivating novel that seamlessly blends personal struggles with historical events. The story explores the resilience and strength of women across different generations, offering a poignant reflection on perseverance & love. Her writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, drawing readers into a richly detailed world where history and personal experiences intertwine. I love her use of similes throughout the story! With well-developed characters and a compelling narrative, this book is a must-read for those who enjoy historical fiction with deep emotional resonance.

[Jessica Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because of Winter is a mesmerizing debut novel that transports us between the early American era and modern day Annapolis where main character Lorna navigates a tragic loss. Mystery, romance, and drama abound! Vivid natural and historical descriptions immerse the reader and the twists keep you guessing until the very end. A solid read with which to snuggle by the fire with a cup of cocoa.

[Jack Kruse · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has lived in Annapolis, I found this book fascinating. It's equal parts history, mystery, and tragedy. It's obvious that Brochetti did her research as she excavates the multiple historical layers of Maryland's capital. The author does a great job creating engrossing characters that drive this tale.

[Kristen Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the way Nikki weaves present day and historical fiction together- expertly writing two books in one. She navigates the complexity of family relationships and the heartbreak of life with stories of hope and forgiveness. Her descriptions are beautiful and her characters compelling that I’d love to meet them in real life.

[Whitney Blanche · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part mystery and part historical fiction, this was a beautiful and quiet novel that I loved to sink into every evening. The story and writing felt soothing and it was the perfect cozy read for winter. I absolutely loved the book within a book trope. (Is that a trope?) In Because Of Winter our MC Lorna reads a book titled Where The Foxgloves Bloom about her late husband’s ancestor and we get to read that same book alongside Lorna. It was such a unique way to present the past portion of the story and it really resonated with me. Because Of Winter is a beautiful story of grief and found family and I highly recommend.

[Jennifer Curtis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our book club read this book and we all loved it. It has something for everyone – strong female characters, interesting and historical nods to Annapolis and Wilmington, love interests, mystery and intrigue.

[Rhiannon Frix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely captivating and intriguing. This book was such a great read being from the area but also very well written and interesting. I highly recommend this book to everyone, loved the historical aspect as well.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this down.
It checked off all my boxes.
Love, the human spirit, mystery mixed with some history...this book is so relatable and had the perfect ending.

[Rebecca Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annapolis story

This is a fantastic story, especially if you know Annapolis, MD! Love the historical as well as the present day story.

[Nanette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun to read with local lore and more fun that some of it is true. Great story. Great writing. Can't wait to meet the author at our book club in a few weeks!

[Lisa Wells · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favorites in a while. Historical fiction set in Annapolis and actually, two stories in one. Locals must read!

[Tammie Gunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is her first book its set in my hometown of Maryland . I like to support local authors. Great story and i could not put it down.