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Winter Rose
A dark and haunting tale of a young girl trapped in Winter, longing to be free. When Rose and her sister are left to fend for themselves and an ailing mother, they must fight both nature and the darkness of the soul to survive. A "Winter Rose" by Rachel Anne Marks is a hauntingly beautiful coming of age story, reminiscent of "Winter’s Bone" by Daniel Woodrell. With lush prose and realistic characters, Marks crafts a tale that focuses on the difficult subjects of abandonment and poverty, and yet rises above these dark subjects through the use of magical realism and hope. The end result was a novella that I couldn’t put down.—Merrie Destefano, author of " The Resurrection Chronicles" and " Harvest of Dreams." About the Rachel A. Marks is a writer and artist, a surfer and dirt-bike rider, chocolate lover and keeper of faerie secrets. She teaches her four kids at home and tries not to act like a nerd during science class. She was voted most likely to survive a zombie apocalypse, but hopes she'll never have to test the theory.
59 pages, Paperback
First published November 21, 2011
10 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
Rachel A. Marks
12 books530 followersRachel A. Marks is an award-winning author and professional artist, a SoCal girl, cancer survivor, a surfer and dirt-bike rider, chocolate lover and keeper of faerie secrets. She was voted: Most Likely to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse, but hopes she'll never have to test the theory. Her debut series
The Dark Cycle,
described as Dickens' Oliver Twist meets TV's Supernatural, begins with the Amazon Bestseller, DARKNESS BRUTAL.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 8, 2012
Great freebie read! I love it when a novella reads more like a full size story, and the writing is so good you can't help but get sucked in. This was NOT a fluffy cowboy romance. It was an emotionally charged, gritty American-historical romance that painted a vivid landscape of the hard-times faced during the deep winter months of late 1800's America.
Did I mention that the writing was seriously GOOD?! Ms Marks is an author-to-watch. I'll need to check her out. Written in first-person POV (point of view) by a 15 y/o girl named Rose, we see how life unfolds for her mother, older sister and herself after her drunkard father abandons them to their own survival just as winter sets in. There is a realistic tone to the story, and I don't doubt that this scenario could and did happen. Beware that the author doesn't sugarcoat the time period, but she doesn't get overly graphic either (which I appreciated!)
This is not a paranormal read, but I liked how the sisters got a reputation among the local mining men for being ice witches, and some even claimed to have seen their ghosts at night walking the mines and causing havoc. It made for some great thought provoking moments in the story.
The romance is slow coming and quite tender when it does evolve, which make sense in such hard times. Don't expect a bunch of horny sex-minded characters, the romance was much more of a love story with an happy-ever-after ending.
I highly recommend it to fans of American historicals that don't mind the steam level turned down to low. It's only 80-100 pages, and the heat is only kisses, but it does read like a full size story. I got this for free in December, so if you didn't get it back then I am sure many (including me) would be happy to Kindle lend it to you.
Did I mention that the writing was seriously GOOD?! Ms Marks is an author-to-watch. I'll need to check her out. Written in first-person POV (point of view) by a 15 y/o girl named Rose, we see how life unfolds for her mother, older sister and herself after her drunkard father abandons them to their own survival just as winter sets in. There is a realistic tone to the story, and I don't doubt that this scenario could and did happen. Beware that the author doesn't sugarcoat the time period, but she doesn't get overly graphic either (which I appreciated!)
This is not a paranormal read, but I liked how the sisters got a reputation among the local mining men for being ice witches, and some even claimed to have seen their ghosts at night walking the mines and causing havoc. It made for some great thought provoking moments in the story.
The romance is slow coming and quite tender when it does evolve, which make sense in such hard times. Don't expect a bunch of horny sex-minded characters, the romance was much more of a love story with an happy-ever-after ending.
I highly recommend it to fans of American historicals that don't mind the steam level turned down to low. It's only 80-100 pages, and the heat is only kisses, but it does read like a full size story. I got this for free in December, so if you didn't get it back then I am sure many (including me) would be happy to Kindle lend it to you.
December 17, 2011
I was taken aback by this piece. It was beautifully written, the rhythm and language of the author's word choice was something akin to a stake being pounded into your heart. And yet through the pain, you love it. At first I was bothered by the predictable storyline, the superficial bad guys, the heavy personal conflicts that didn't change...but then the writing swept me in and I forgot all the other similar stories I've read because as I was reading, there was only this story. These characters. This conflict.
I realized through this story that the reason that cliche is overused is that cliche works. We only notice BADLY done cliche.
Winter Rose was not badly done. In fact, it was done SO well that even my cynical I've-read-too-many-stories mind forgot to dissect the story as I was reading. I read because I was horrified and I read because I cared. No matter what criticisms I could come up about the story, those criticisms are mere excuses for a story well told.
Fantastic writing. Honest characters. Five stars.
I realized through this story that the reason that cliche is overused is that cliche works. We only notice BADLY done cliche.
Winter Rose was not badly done. In fact, it was done SO well that even my cynical I've-read-too-many-stories mind forgot to dissect the story as I was reading. I read because I was horrified and I read because I cared. No matter what criticisms I could come up about the story, those criticisms are mere excuses for a story well told.
Fantastic writing. Honest characters. Five stars.
July 4, 2012
Wow...just WOW!! This was an AMAZEBALLS novella!! The writing is breathtakingly beautiful with it's lyrical figurative style and aching quality. I felt transported right into the harsh winter of Rose's life.
The story itself at times had me gripping my kindle tighter and tighter as I feared for Rose, wept with her, and my heart broke for her and her sister.
Luke...oh man, what do I say about Luke? He can be my hero and protector anyday...but what I loved the most is how unconventional their meeting is and unlike the typical damsel in distress.
My only complaint is this isn't a full novel or that there isn't a sequel. As harsh and painful as the world was, I still wanted to spend more time in it with Rose and Luke!!
The story itself at times had me gripping my kindle tighter and tighter as I feared for Rose, wept with her, and my heart broke for her and her sister.
Luke...oh man, what do I say about Luke? He can be my hero and protector anyday...but what I loved the most is how unconventional their meeting is and unlike the typical damsel in distress.
My only complaint is this isn't a full novel or that there isn't a sequel. As harsh and painful as the world was, I still wanted to spend more time in it with Rose and Luke!!
March 7, 2012
There are some tales told that finish up too sugar coated for their own good, and there are stories like Winter Rose that have you fixed on every word and every sentence by its powerful yet gritty writing.
The tale of Rose, her sister Becca and their mother is chilling, raw and bitter. Just like the cold winter on the mountain where they live in a cabin to fend for themselves after their drunken father abandons them. Both daughters have harrowing histories with their father, they hope he doesn't return. Ever.
Then one day Rose finds something unexpected in her animal trap and a hint of positivity suddenly shines through unlike the sun that never visits their mountain. His name is Luke.
But the harsh life the sisters lead isn't over yet. Sacrifices must be made and Rose is still haunted by her terrifying past.
This short story will capture your heart, and is a must read for anyone who enjoys American Historical stories.
The tale of Rose, her sister Becca and their mother is chilling, raw and bitter. Just like the cold winter on the mountain where they live in a cabin to fend for themselves after their drunken father abandons them. Both daughters have harrowing histories with their father, they hope he doesn't return. Ever.
Then one day Rose finds something unexpected in her animal trap and a hint of positivity suddenly shines through unlike the sun that never visits their mountain. His name is Luke.
But the harsh life the sisters lead isn't over yet. Sacrifices must be made and Rose is still haunted by her terrifying past.
This short story will capture your heart, and is a must read for anyone who enjoys American Historical stories.
May 6, 2012
I adored this short story! The prose style is lyrical without getting in the way, meaning that it pulls you into the story instead of throwing you out of it. Though the plot doesn't twist, the characters build enough tention that it's an emotionally satisfying resolution. It's a read-in-one-sitting, can't-put-it-down sort of book, so don't pick it up unless you have an hour or two available!
Rose and her sister, through rough circumstances, find themselves alone and vulnerable to abuse from the men of the nearby mining camp... what follows is the beautiful telling of love and healing.
Rose and her sister, through rough circumstances, find themselves alone and vulnerable to abuse from the men of the nearby mining camp... what follows is the beautiful telling of love and healing.
November 2, 2012
Loved this one!!!!!
February 18, 2012
With a beginning as heart rending as its ending is heart warming, Winter Rose, is a must read. Though its very nature (a novella) makes it a quick read, it is not light on content.
Rose has had to face many traumatic events, but there's an inner strength to her that refuses to give up. Her mother's illness, her father's abuse and abandonment, and her sister's subsequent prostitution to feed their family have all culminated into a rage that drives Rose to the brink of destruction. Rose is eventually forced to draw a line between what is self-defense and what is outright murder. Her decision on which side of the line she steps will forever help shape her future.
Marks' telling is beautiful and, at times, difficult in its descriptiveness. She torments you to the point of being uncomfortable as she shows you Rose's beginnings, she creates a sense of frustration as you watch Rose stumble along her path of decision, and she fills your heart with hope for a brighter future for Rose if she'll only take the chance.
If you're looking for a quick read that will stay in your mind and heart long after you've set it down, then you need to go get Winter Rose by Rachel A. Marks. And keep reading!
Disclosures: I received this book for free in exchange for a review.
Rose has had to face many traumatic events, but there's an inner strength to her that refuses to give up. Her mother's illness, her father's abuse and abandonment, and her sister's subsequent prostitution to feed their family have all culminated into a rage that drives Rose to the brink of destruction. Rose is eventually forced to draw a line between what is self-defense and what is outright murder. Her decision on which side of the line she steps will forever help shape her future.
Marks' telling is beautiful and, at times, difficult in its descriptiveness. She torments you to the point of being uncomfortable as she shows you Rose's beginnings, she creates a sense of frustration as you watch Rose stumble along her path of decision, and she fills your heart with hope for a brighter future for Rose if she'll only take the chance.
If you're looking for a quick read that will stay in your mind and heart long after you've set it down, then you need to go get Winter Rose by Rachel A. Marks. And keep reading!
Disclosures: I received this book for free in exchange for a review.
November 2, 2012
Beautiful and haunting. The way Rachel Marks weaves her world and characters makes any writer jealous!! A story of strength, perseverance, and love!! Who could ask for anything more...except for it to be made into a full novel!!
May 7, 2012
Absolutely beautiful!
November 1, 2012
Loved this story so much! So much well done emotion. There was terror, hearthache, fear, revulsion, and at the heart a hopefulness and love. Really a great read!
March 1, 2018
This is such a short read/listen and I can't believe how emotional I got with it. That says a lot for Rachel and Starla. The perfect words and the exact voice for the characters. Wow. I kept tearing up at the end. It's a slow gradual change, but it's there. Such great growth at the right pacing for Rose. I'm blown away at the tremendous journey in such a short frame, yet it didn't feel as though we were making huge leaps. The growth was done with a gentle progression with the perfect moments in time.
****FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW****
****FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW****
July 17, 2018
I am presuming this is historical fiction, though there isn't an easy period identifier. Maybe there is if you are American.
A dark tale unfolds of two sisters and a mother left in a mountain cabin's isolation. Their ill-tempered father swaggers off down the snowy mountain and reports on their location to the miners - with tragic results. One of the sisters tells her story.
Some readers will enjoy this novella more than I did, but it isn't a light read. I recommend this only for adult readers due to mature content and violence.
I downloaded an e-ARC from the author via Instafreebie. This is an unbiased review.
A dark tale unfolds of two sisters and a mother left in a mountain cabin's isolation. Their ill-tempered father swaggers off down the snowy mountain and reports on their location to the miners - with tragic results. One of the sisters tells her story.
Some readers will enjoy this novella more than I did, but it isn't a light read. I recommend this only for adult readers due to mature content and violence.
I downloaded an e-ARC from the author via Instafreebie. This is an unbiased review.
September 9, 2017
This was just ok for me. I read it because I needed a season in the title for a challenge and I found this in my calibre library - I must have picked it up at some point. I think it was the writing style that didn't really work for me, between that and the length there were many unanswered questions. The story had potential, but it isn't very happy. There starts to be some light and that is where I started thinking it might be ok. Then a little more darkness before an abrupt, but happier, ending. If the ending had been fleshed out just a little, I might have rated it higher.
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May 6, 2012I'm not going to rate this because I didn't finish it. I found it so relentlessly depressing and bleak that I just couldn't keep reading. It starts off with violence, abuse ("when he tore into my clothes, called me names I can't even bare [sic] to think of")and incest, progresses to rape and forced sexual slavery, goes on to murder with an ax... I am hoping it got better but I couldn't keep going.
To be fair the writer is skillful but if the first 25% of a book is nothing but misery I am not inclined to keep reading. A lot of people seem to like this. In fact I came here to see what others thought but, from what I've read so far, I'm afraid I'm too much of a wimp to keep going. I don't expect books to be consistently happy but I do not have any use for miz-lit and this was just too miserable for me to want to keep reading.
To be fair the writer is skillful but if the first 25% of a book is nothing but misery I am not inclined to keep reading. A lot of people seem to like this. In fact I came here to see what others thought but, from what I've read so far, I'm afraid I'm too much of a wimp to keep going. I don't expect books to be consistently happy but I do not have any use for miz-lit and this was just too miserable for me to want to keep reading.
February 27, 2016
I don't think that it was advertised as a Kindle Single, but it is equivalent to about 52 print pages. It is a love story and a story of survival. The product descriptions states, "A dark and haunting tale of a young girl trapped in Winter, longing to be free. When Rose and her sister are left to fend for themselves and an ailing mother, they must fight both nature and the darkness of the soul to survive." I can't describe it any better without giving away what occurs. The story is extremely well-written and flows quickly. It is a touching, brutal, and haunting, all in one. Though a quick read, it is a story that stays with you. I highly recommend this story to anyone who can get their hands on it!!
December 27, 2013
Holy crap. Soooooooooo good. The writing was spectacular and I didn't put the book down from the first word to the last. A beautiful story with an intricate mix of beautiful and dark elements that had me completely riveted from one page to the next. The array of emotions running through me as I read were never ending. I was exhausted by the roller coaster ride that had me up and down, slithering into dark tunnels where it seemed as if there were no escape only to burst back into light that wore halos of hope. Loved. It. Love Rachel Marks. She is so talented. SO. TALENTED.
October 23, 2017
A gripping read
It moved fast and held my attention from start to finish. The story was like the arrival of spring, as the protagonist thawed from ice to warm flesh and blood. There was non stop action and plenty of weird emotion. It ended nicely too. I always like a story with a satisfying ending that seems complete. And this one did. I could believe this story might really happen. I think of it as suitable for mature teens and young adults and yet it is no children's book. Unusual, gritty, terrifying and somehow pure. I loved the detail of the iris flower at the end.
It moved fast and held my attention from start to finish. The story was like the arrival of spring, as the protagonist thawed from ice to warm flesh and blood. There was non stop action and plenty of weird emotion. It ended nicely too. I always like a story with a satisfying ending that seems complete. And this one did. I could believe this story might really happen. I think of it as suitable for mature teens and young adults and yet it is no children's book. Unusual, gritty, terrifying and somehow pure. I loved the detail of the iris flower at the end.
June 5, 2012
I can't say the plot is terribly unique, but the writing truly makes that not matter. Rachel Marks has voice. And her writing is smooth. I had a complete grasp of the setting and main character from the first paragraphs and the characterization only got stronger as the story continued. I'm very much looking forward to reading a full novel by Marks and seeing what she's capable of when given the space to write an even deeper story.
January 17, 2015
For my taste, I actually give it a 3.5 stars. It was a nice and quick read. It’s like your 21st century fairy tale. A story of a girl who struggles through physical and emotional turmoil ends with her prince charming. I picked this book up to read between books and I'm glad I did. I recommend it if you are looking for a quick read for the day or two.
August 24, 2012
It was a short story that was well written. Loved it and thought it was very easy to read. Really good story line, really scary, not in a monster go boo thing, but scary. Great story!!!! Must read and recommended!!!!
November 29, 2019
A rather depressing short story but it grabbed me in. It starts with a father walking out on his two daughters and sick wife, taking all their food, leaving them in a shack on a snow covered mountain and it gets worse. The little romance between Rose and Luke is near the end.
October 16, 2016
Very well written. My only issue is that I feel that I am not sure if Luke was first interested in Rose's sister, Becca, before her. The scenes when he was sitting/resting next to Becca to console her and where Rose was noticing Becca and Luke's "link"...not sure how I felt about that.
April 12, 2012
I picked this up as a freebie off Amazon earlier this year.
This was a great novella. There was a lot packed in a small space. I did cry... Twice... Which is usually unheard of, for me.
This was a great novella. There was a lot packed in a small space. I did cry... Twice... Which is usually unheard of, for me.
June 11, 2012
My only complaint....it ended too soon!!
September 4, 2012
A well written novella!
November 6, 2014
Great short story! proof of living past your demons
May 11, 2012
Dark but really good. I loved the imagery and feeling in the book :)
June 4, 2012
Quick read, I wasn't sure at first if I would like it but it was good.
November 10, 2025
A horrifyingly beautiful tale about trusting the people you fear the most, Winter Rose does have some explicit topics, such as sexual assault, abuse, and death. But it also has witches. A powerful story wrapped up neatly in a small novella, I couldn't put it down once I started it, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Check out my full review here! Posted 11/19/2025
https://mutatedlibrary.wordpress.com/...
Check out my full review here! Posted 11/19/2025
https://mutatedlibrary.wordpress.com/...
May 20, 2018
A story of humanity wonderfully written.
This is a short story, but it's full of the worst and best of humanity. A story of two sisters trying to survive in terrible conditions, and finding the healing and hope only God and love can give.
This is a short story, but it's full of the worst and best of humanity. A story of two sisters trying to survive in terrible conditions, and finding the healing and hope only God and love can give.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews