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A Fractured Winter
A missing girl.
Threatening notes.
Sinister strangers.
Olivia's idyllic family life in a Swiss mountain village is falling apart. She thought she'd managed to escape the past, but it's coming back to haunt her.
Has somebody discovered her secret - why she had to leave Scotland more than ten years ago?
What is her connection to Marie, a lonely schoolgirl in a Yorkshire seaside town, and Lucy, a student at a Scottish university?
A story of the shadows of the past, the uncertainties of the present and how you can never really know anybody.
Threatening notes.
Sinister strangers.
Olivia's idyllic family life in a Swiss mountain village is falling apart. She thought she'd managed to escape the past, but it's coming back to haunt her.
Has somebody discovered her secret - why she had to leave Scotland more than ten years ago?
What is her connection to Marie, a lonely schoolgirl in a Yorkshire seaside town, and Lucy, a student at a Scottish university?
A story of the shadows of the past, the uncertainties of the present and how you can never really know anybody.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2018
228 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Alison Baillie
2 books26 followersAlthough she was born in Yorkshire, she has always felt Scottish. Her parents were both Scottish and she studied English at the University of St Andrews and afterwards taught English at several High Schools in the Edinburgh area. She has also taught English as a Foreign Language in Finland and Switzerland.
She loves reading crime fiction, especially Scottish and Scandinavian, going to crime writing festivals, travelling, walking in the mountains and being with my friends and family.
"Sewing the Shadows Together" is her first novel. Her second novel, "A Fractured Winter" will be published in late spring of 2018.
She loves reading crime fiction, especially Scottish and Scandinavian, going to crime writing festivals, travelling, walking in the mountains and being with my friends and family.
"Sewing the Shadows Together" is her first novel. Her second novel, "A Fractured Winter" will be published in late spring of 2018.
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January 31, 2019DNF - Throwing in the towel at 32%. - No Rating
Annoying main character. Boring story-line that is moving at a snails pace. And now that a psychic has been introduced as a major player in the story, well, I think it's safe for me to bail now.
Annoying main character. Boring story-line that is moving at a snails pace. And now that a psychic has been introduced as a major player in the story, well, I think it's safe for me to bail now.
May 18, 2018
A fissure is forming high in the Alps outside of Zug, Switzerland. An avalanche of suppressed emotions, a past life of dark secrets, and a tall stranger will leave imprints embedded in the lives of unsuspecting individuals in Wildenwil.
Olivia Keller has traveled many a road since leaving her home in Edinburgh. She rarely speaks of those irregular pieces in her puzzled past. It remains in the darkest corners of her mind. But like a sharp pebble in one's shoe, there's always a painful reminder of one's tragic beginnings.
Olivia is a talented linguist fully fluent in German and the Swiss dialect. She met her husband, Christian, a German language teacher, while they both taught at a high school in Edinburgh. They soon married and traveled back to the Zug area where Christian had been born. Taking up residence in Wildenwil, the young couple went on to have a family: Julian, Marc, and Lara. Nothing could be more idyllic than living in the picturesque area along Lake Zug. (I've actually been there. Jaw dropping beauty.) A very peaceful existence until things go a bit awry.
A young neighbor girl goes missing one late afternoon. There have been no clues as to her whereabouts for weeks. Soon another girl doesn't come home from school. Fear brings strange thoughts to the town's people, especially to Olivia. Abduction rests on their lips with the uncertainty of perhaps an international ring. Rumors spread from village to village.
Curiosity turns Olivia's head when an unusual group of people take over the Grand Wildenbach Hotel turning it into a spa and resort. Each visit to the up-and-coming hotel brings Olivia in closer proximity to the tall, slender owner, Aurelia. Olivia finds herself taking Aurelia into her confidence about episodes from her past....a past that had previously been kept safeguarded.
Alison Baillie presents a storyline filled with time shifts from Olivia's past life. She encompasses Swiss holidays and customs into her telling that adds just the right flavor to this plot. This is a very character-driven story that sets up the present uncertain situations while drawing out incidences from the past. Olivia is one multi-faceted, complicated, elusive woman.
While A Fractured Winter begins somewhat as a Heidi adventure, it curves out into heavier territory. I did have some reservations in the pairing of Olivia and Christian. Christian had quite the stern personality and I actually shook my head as to what the draw was. Quite an abrasive fellow. As readers, we will also observe Olivia's difficulty with relationships in general. But then, you'll come to realize why.
A refreshingly different setting with a story scape within an alps adventure. Brisk are the mountain winds and brisk is the storyline that develops on quite a treacherous slope.
Olivia Keller has traveled many a road since leaving her home in Edinburgh. She rarely speaks of those irregular pieces in her puzzled past. It remains in the darkest corners of her mind. But like a sharp pebble in one's shoe, there's always a painful reminder of one's tragic beginnings.
Olivia is a talented linguist fully fluent in German and the Swiss dialect. She met her husband, Christian, a German language teacher, while they both taught at a high school in Edinburgh. They soon married and traveled back to the Zug area where Christian had been born. Taking up residence in Wildenwil, the young couple went on to have a family: Julian, Marc, and Lara. Nothing could be more idyllic than living in the picturesque area along Lake Zug. (I've actually been there. Jaw dropping beauty.) A very peaceful existence until things go a bit awry.
A young neighbor girl goes missing one late afternoon. There have been no clues as to her whereabouts for weeks. Soon another girl doesn't come home from school. Fear brings strange thoughts to the town's people, especially to Olivia. Abduction rests on their lips with the uncertainty of perhaps an international ring. Rumors spread from village to village.
Curiosity turns Olivia's head when an unusual group of people take over the Grand Wildenbach Hotel turning it into a spa and resort. Each visit to the up-and-coming hotel brings Olivia in closer proximity to the tall, slender owner, Aurelia. Olivia finds herself taking Aurelia into her confidence about episodes from her past....a past that had previously been kept safeguarded.
Alison Baillie presents a storyline filled with time shifts from Olivia's past life. She encompasses Swiss holidays and customs into her telling that adds just the right flavor to this plot. This is a very character-driven story that sets up the present uncertain situations while drawing out incidences from the past. Olivia is one multi-faceted, complicated, elusive woman.
While A Fractured Winter begins somewhat as a Heidi adventure, it curves out into heavier territory. I did have some reservations in the pairing of Olivia and Christian. Christian had quite the stern personality and I actually shook my head as to what the draw was. Quite an abrasive fellow. As readers, we will also observe Olivia's difficulty with relationships in general. But then, you'll come to realize why.
A refreshingly different setting with a story scape within an alps adventure. Brisk are the mountain winds and brisk is the storyline that develops on quite a treacherous slope.
June 15, 2023
Olivia and her family live near the scenic Lake Zug, Switzerland. Her husband, Christian, works in the local high school. The same school where Olivia’s eldest son, Julian attends. Christian is Julian’s step-father, and the relationship between the two is rocky to say the least. Olivia and Christian have two younger children together, Marc and Lara.
“She’d thought she was safe, that she’d managed to escape from her past.”
Things are going along fairly well for the little family until one day Olivia finds a threatening note which begins to fracture her perfect facade. Olivia has a secret. She doesn’t want anyone finding out the true reason she moved to Switzerland from Scotland eleven years before.
Then, Sandra, one of Lara’s friends goes missing after school one day in November. Sandra is just eight years old.
The ‘fractures’ in the fractured winter are beginning to appear…
Now we backtrack to a young schoolgirl in Yorkshire. The year is 1984 and Marie is a friendless and emotionally fragile little girl. Her parents are much older than the parents of other children her age. Her religious mother dotes upon her, but her father’s moods are volatile and Marie walks on eggshells in the attempt to evade his wrath. The family are poor and Marie wonders why no friends or relatives ever visit. As she grows into an intelligent teenager, Marie feels suffocated in her home. She wants to go to university to study to be a teacher. When she is sixteen her parents show her a birth certificate.
This explains why she has never felt like she belonged. Her ‘parents’ explain how she was born to a teenage mother who didn’t want her. They were older and childless, and agreed to take care of her only if they changed her name and moved away.
Fast forward to the year 1998. Lucy Sheridan is attending university at St. Andrew’s. She is doing very well academically, but has little to no social life. Her roommate persuades her to go on a date with a rich, handsome, and popular young man. Naive and gullible, Lucy finds herself pregnant after just one date…
Olivia’s world is changing. Her beloved Saint Bernard dog dies, her eldest son Julian seems more distant every day. Her husband, Christian, has become impatient, short-tempered, and condescending towards her. Her son, Julian, is displaying volatile moodiness and anger. Unhappy and fearful for her own young children after Sandra’s disappearance, Olivia turns to her beloved books as a means of escape.
Nearby Olivia’s house is the creepy old Grand Wildenbach Hotel. In disrepair, it has now been purchased by an older woman and is being extensively renovated. Drawn to it, Olivia visits the hotel and is invited in by the owner, Aurelia. This woman, a complete stranger, seems to understand Olivia and provides her with a ‘motherly’ support.
“In the warm comforting presence of Aurelia, everything seemed possible.”
Older rock star, Stevie Dawber has a home in the area. Olivia strikes up a friendship with him, sensing his loneliness. Always curious about her birth father, Olivia wonders if Stevie could be him. Christian doesn’t like the fact that Olivia is spending time with ‘unsavory types’ like Stevie and Aurelia.
Always wondering what happened to little Sandra, Olivia begins to suspect everyone around her. She is tense, and deeply unhappy. Will life ever be the same?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The author’s affection for her adopted homeland is evident in the story. I enjoyed reading about the Swiss customs and could almost feel the winter chill and hear the crunch of the snow underfoot. On reflection, I think this is the first novel I’ve read that was set in Switzerland (with the exception of “Heidi” which I read as a child).
At times, I found myself becoming a bit impatient with Olivia who seemed too gullible and lacking in confidence. She seemed too unaware of the intense ‘creepiness’ factor of the old hotel and its inhabitants. Also, I didn’t warm to her husband Christian at all. I wished she would throw something at him on several occasions. Times when he was controlling and condescending. In fact, all the men in her life seemed lacking in warmth. Olivia was a woman desperately in need of a support system. I liked how Olivia turned to books throughout her life. They were always there when she needed them.
This story shows how feelings of guilt, lack of self-esteem, and no sense of self-worth, can impact a life. “A fractured winter” evoked a strong sense of disquiet in the reader.
With many suspicious characters, several red-herrings, and a high ‘creepiness’ factor, this novel will be loved by many. Recommended to readers who enjoy a thriller with damaged characters, a stunning setting, secrets, creepy hotels, and a satisfying resolution. Overall, an enjoyable read!
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this novel from the author, Alison Baillie, and her publisher, Williams & Whiting. This in no way influenced my rating of the book, nor hindered me from expressing my honest opinions.
“She’d thought she was safe, that she’d managed to escape from her past.”
Things are going along fairly well for the little family until one day Olivia finds a threatening note which begins to fracture her perfect facade. Olivia has a secret. She doesn’t want anyone finding out the true reason she moved to Switzerland from Scotland eleven years before.
Then, Sandra, one of Lara’s friends goes missing after school one day in November. Sandra is just eight years old.
The ‘fractures’ in the fractured winter are beginning to appear…
Now we backtrack to a young schoolgirl in Yorkshire. The year is 1984 and Marie is a friendless and emotionally fragile little girl. Her parents are much older than the parents of other children her age. Her religious mother dotes upon her, but her father’s moods are volatile and Marie walks on eggshells in the attempt to evade his wrath. The family are poor and Marie wonders why no friends or relatives ever visit. As she grows into an intelligent teenager, Marie feels suffocated in her home. She wants to go to university to study to be a teacher. When she is sixteen her parents show her a birth certificate.
This explains why she has never felt like she belonged. Her ‘parents’ explain how she was born to a teenage mother who didn’t want her. They were older and childless, and agreed to take care of her only if they changed her name and moved away.
Fast forward to the year 1998. Lucy Sheridan is attending university at St. Andrew’s. She is doing very well academically, but has little to no social life. Her roommate persuades her to go on a date with a rich, handsome, and popular young man. Naive and gullible, Lucy finds herself pregnant after just one date…
Olivia’s world is changing. Her beloved Saint Bernard dog dies, her eldest son Julian seems more distant every day. Her husband, Christian, has become impatient, short-tempered, and condescending towards her. Her son, Julian, is displaying volatile moodiness and anger. Unhappy and fearful for her own young children after Sandra’s disappearance, Olivia turns to her beloved books as a means of escape.
Nearby Olivia’s house is the creepy old Grand Wildenbach Hotel. In disrepair, it has now been purchased by an older woman and is being extensively renovated. Drawn to it, Olivia visits the hotel and is invited in by the owner, Aurelia. This woman, a complete stranger, seems to understand Olivia and provides her with a ‘motherly’ support.
“In the warm comforting presence of Aurelia, everything seemed possible.”
Older rock star, Stevie Dawber has a home in the area. Olivia strikes up a friendship with him, sensing his loneliness. Always curious about her birth father, Olivia wonders if Stevie could be him. Christian doesn’t like the fact that Olivia is spending time with ‘unsavory types’ like Stevie and Aurelia.
Always wondering what happened to little Sandra, Olivia begins to suspect everyone around her. She is tense, and deeply unhappy. Will life ever be the same?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The author’s affection for her adopted homeland is evident in the story. I enjoyed reading about the Swiss customs and could almost feel the winter chill and hear the crunch of the snow underfoot. On reflection, I think this is the first novel I’ve read that was set in Switzerland (with the exception of “Heidi” which I read as a child).
At times, I found myself becoming a bit impatient with Olivia who seemed too gullible and lacking in confidence. She seemed too unaware of the intense ‘creepiness’ factor of the old hotel and its inhabitants. Also, I didn’t warm to her husband Christian at all. I wished she would throw something at him on several occasions. Times when he was controlling and condescending. In fact, all the men in her life seemed lacking in warmth. Olivia was a woman desperately in need of a support system. I liked how Olivia turned to books throughout her life. They were always there when she needed them.
This story shows how feelings of guilt, lack of self-esteem, and no sense of self-worth, can impact a life. “A fractured winter” evoked a strong sense of disquiet in the reader.
With many suspicious characters, several red-herrings, and a high ‘creepiness’ factor, this novel will be loved by many. Recommended to readers who enjoy a thriller with damaged characters, a stunning setting, secrets, creepy hotels, and a satisfying resolution. Overall, an enjoyable read!
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this novel from the author, Alison Baillie, and her publisher, Williams & Whiting. This in no way influenced my rating of the book, nor hindered me from expressing my honest opinions.
May 3, 2018
I adored Allison Baillies first book Sewing The Shadows Together. It really struck a chord with me and I got very emotional when I read it. It’s one of my very favourite books of recent years and so it was with great excitement, but also with some trepidation, that I started the book I seem to have been waiting for ages for!! Yes, A Fractured Winter is the much anticipated second novel from Alison Baillie and thankfully I loved it just as much as Sewing The Shadows Together!
A Fractured Winter is set mostly in Switzerland where the stunningly described landscape and community really stood out for me. This atmospheric setting was a huge contribution to my enjoyment of the storyline and I think it’s one of the main reasons that it worked so well. When a child disappears from close to where Olivia lives with her husband and children, it seems to have a strangely unexpected effect on her. When she starts to receive strange anonymous notes, she wonders why now? Has the past she’s tried so hard to escape finally caught up with her?
This was an addictive read for me from the moment I picked it up. As well as Olivia’s life in Switzerland, we follow Marie as she struggles with her parents in the seaside town of Scarborough and Lucy, who is attending University in Saint Andrews then begins work as a teacher in the beautiful Scottish city of Edinburgh. I recognised so many landmarks from my own time living there that I became completely involved straightaway, entranced by the surroundings as well as the dramatic journeys of the characters we were following.
And talking about characters there are some brilliant, quirky and unconventional personalities here who all arouse suspicion in the reader. Who is sending Olivia the letters? And why? And do any of them have anything to do with the missing girl? As Olivia gets more unsettled by the events happening around her Swiss village home, she becomes obsessed by finding out answers to those questions. I loved the way that Alison Baillie gradually built up the tension as we watched Olivia begin to unravel the mystery. Or is it Olivia herself who starts to unravel? I had a real empathy for the predicaments she found herself in and I became very fond of her even though sometimes she made some VERY questionable decisions!
Alison Baillie has cemented her position as one of my very favourite authors with this book. I don’t know how she does it but she seems to know exactly what I want to read! It’s like she takes everything that reaches out to me emotionally and wraps it all up in a wonderfully readable piece of fiction. I’m sure she doesn’t write her books just for me but it certainly feels like it!
I can’t tell you how relieved I am that I love this book. Top marks from me and I hope I don’t have to wait so long for Alison Baillies next book!
A Fractured Winter is set mostly in Switzerland where the stunningly described landscape and community really stood out for me. This atmospheric setting was a huge contribution to my enjoyment of the storyline and I think it’s one of the main reasons that it worked so well. When a child disappears from close to where Olivia lives with her husband and children, it seems to have a strangely unexpected effect on her. When she starts to receive strange anonymous notes, she wonders why now? Has the past she’s tried so hard to escape finally caught up with her?
This was an addictive read for me from the moment I picked it up. As well as Olivia’s life in Switzerland, we follow Marie as she struggles with her parents in the seaside town of Scarborough and Lucy, who is attending University in Saint Andrews then begins work as a teacher in the beautiful Scottish city of Edinburgh. I recognised so many landmarks from my own time living there that I became completely involved straightaway, entranced by the surroundings as well as the dramatic journeys of the characters we were following.
And talking about characters there are some brilliant, quirky and unconventional personalities here who all arouse suspicion in the reader. Who is sending Olivia the letters? And why? And do any of them have anything to do with the missing girl? As Olivia gets more unsettled by the events happening around her Swiss village home, she becomes obsessed by finding out answers to those questions. I loved the way that Alison Baillie gradually built up the tension as we watched Olivia begin to unravel the mystery. Or is it Olivia herself who starts to unravel? I had a real empathy for the predicaments she found herself in and I became very fond of her even though sometimes she made some VERY questionable decisions!
Alison Baillie has cemented her position as one of my very favourite authors with this book. I don’t know how she does it but she seems to know exactly what I want to read! It’s like she takes everything that reaches out to me emotionally and wraps it all up in a wonderfully readable piece of fiction. I’m sure she doesn’t write her books just for me but it certainly feels like it!
I can’t tell you how relieved I am that I love this book. Top marks from me and I hope I don’t have to wait so long for Alison Baillies next book!
April 14, 2018
What a wonderful story set mainly in the Swiss Alps, The author has done a fantastic job writing this book. I was thinking what I could compare the beautiful flow of the writing to and the first thing that sprung to mind was slowly drinking a glass of cold Guinness savouring every minute as you go down the glass but also leaving a trace of the velvity substance behind. The book draws you in and the descriptions are such that you can picture yourself there among the pine trees crunching through the thick snow. I love reading and this book is certainly up there with my best ever reads. I won't go through the story because you can read the blurb to get the basics of the book. Thank you to the Helen Boyce of TBC and the author for the ARC. Highly recommended.
April 14, 2018
When a neighbour’s small daughter is abducted from their idyllic Swiss village, Olivia becomes obsessive about the safety of her own children, particularly Lara, the missing girl’s best friend. Events from Olivia’s past loom large in her mind. This is a psychological thriller in which the beautiful setting is almost a character in itself. It’s a study in watching a person’s past come back to trouble her. It begins with a feeling of unease which ramps up until there’s a definite knowledge that something is very wrong. Only Olivia seems to see that – and the reader. At the climax of the story, things come very close to home for Olivia. I enjoyed this story very much. I love the author’s clear and easy style. Always a pleasure to read.
April 25, 2018
A missing person mystery set in the Swiss mountains, Scarborough and Edinburgh.
I thought the descriptions of the Alps and the surrounding scenery were wonderful and I found the Swiss traditions mentioned very interesting to read about. The mystery side of the story was quite well paced with a few twists and turns, but at times seemed a little bizarre and far-fetched. The actions of the main character for a supposedly intelligent woman were, I thought, quite harebrained and implausible. The constant questioning of herself became somewhat repetitive and I just wanted to give her a good shake and tell her to get on with life! The ending was neatly and satisfactorily tied up, perhaps too much so. Nevertheless, it made for quite enjoyable, pleasant and easy reading.
I thought the descriptions of the Alps and the surrounding scenery were wonderful and I found the Swiss traditions mentioned very interesting to read about. The mystery side of the story was quite well paced with a few twists and turns, but at times seemed a little bizarre and far-fetched. The actions of the main character for a supposedly intelligent woman were, I thought, quite harebrained and implausible. The constant questioning of herself became somewhat repetitive and I just wanted to give her a good shake and tell her to get on with life! The ending was neatly and satisfactorily tied up, perhaps too much so. Nevertheless, it made for quite enjoyable, pleasant and easy reading.
April 3, 2018
I loved this book, brilliant characters with interesting histories and a fantastic setting in the Swiss Alps. Author describes the scenery so well you could almost be there
April 9, 2018
What a brilliant book, I loved it! Alison Baillie really knows how to tell a story!
This book is set mainly in Switzerland, and it is written so well you really feel you are in the Alps with the characters. Olivia lives there with her husband Christian, their two younger children, and Olivia's authentically moody teenage son Julian. Olivia's seemingly idyllic life is shattered when two young local girls go missing at the same time her mysterious past seems to be catching up with her.
I don't want to go into too much detail as that would be giving the storyline away! I love a good family saga, with well drawn (often dodgy!) characters, where we chart the effect of their actions throughout the years. We go back and forth between Switzerland, Edinburgh and Scarborough, finding out what led to Olivia's torment in the present day. Alison has a real knack of creating a sense of place in her books, adding to the atmosphere and authenticity.
I loved the ageing rock star character of Stevie, every time he appeared I pictured him as Bill Nighy - if there's ever a movie of this book he is a shoe in for the part!
There are quite a few twists and surprises in this story, I felt there was an underlying sense of darkness and tension most of the way through, unsettling the reader and I certainly didn't guess the fate of the two missing girls.
A beautifully written book, I would recommend this to everyone, and if you haven't already done so, you must read Alison's first book Sewing the Shadows together, as it is just as brilliant!
This book is set mainly in Switzerland, and it is written so well you really feel you are in the Alps with the characters. Olivia lives there with her husband Christian, their two younger children, and Olivia's authentically moody teenage son Julian. Olivia's seemingly idyllic life is shattered when two young local girls go missing at the same time her mysterious past seems to be catching up with her.
I don't want to go into too much detail as that would be giving the storyline away! I love a good family saga, with well drawn (often dodgy!) characters, where we chart the effect of their actions throughout the years. We go back and forth between Switzerland, Edinburgh and Scarborough, finding out what led to Olivia's torment in the present day. Alison has a real knack of creating a sense of place in her books, adding to the atmosphere and authenticity.
I loved the ageing rock star character of Stevie, every time he appeared I pictured him as Bill Nighy - if there's ever a movie of this book he is a shoe in for the part!
There are quite a few twists and surprises in this story, I felt there was an underlying sense of darkness and tension most of the way through, unsettling the reader and I certainly didn't guess the fate of the two missing girls.
A beautifully written book, I would recommend this to everyone, and if you haven't already done so, you must read Alison's first book Sewing the Shadows together, as it is just as brilliant!
September 11, 2018
LOVED IT
This was a great read. I was hooked from the first chapter – one of those books when I don’t make the bed or wash the dishes until I get to the last page. It’s the story of a woman beset by fears; keeping her children safe, influence by people outside her circle and suspicions of the people she knows. Set in Switzerland and Edinburg we learn of her childhood and how it sets her up for her later reactions. Highly recommended.
This was a great read. I was hooked from the first chapter – one of those books when I don’t make the bed or wash the dishes until I get to the last page. It’s the story of a woman beset by fears; keeping her children safe, influence by people outside her circle and suspicions of the people she knows. Set in Switzerland and Edinburg we learn of her childhood and how it sets her up for her later reactions. Highly recommended.
July 1, 2018
I absolutely LOVED Alison Baillie’s debut novel – Sewing The Shadows Together so was THRILLED to be offered the opportunity to read her second novel, A Fractured Winter.
This novel is set in both Switzerland and Edinburgh – but the main story happens in Switzerland. Mystery is everywhere as the reader is faced with secrets from the past, loss, fear, change, a search for answers, revelations, consequences and manipulation …but so much more!
I have to say, I just LOVE Alison Baillie’s writing style – so enchanting, despite the subject matter – I was immediately drawn in as the tension and suspense pushed and pulled me with each page turned. There was an air of mystery that just hung over me, setting my synapses on fire as I eagerly read and experienced the story unfolding. This novel was rich with atmosphere and a true sense of place – I was in Switzerland – I was in Edinburgh, breathing the air ..ooooh, it was fabulous!! I also loved the sense of jeopardy that coursed through my veins… I felt it – the storyline delivered a sinister and alarming vibe. OMG it was brilliant!
Character-wise I felt like I came to know each individual. Everyone had a purpose and even those I wasn’t particularly drawn to, I had to know what happened…I cared….I needed to know! Olivia annoyed me at the best of times – her naivety made me want to shake her, but I could also empathise with her. Very well written! Christen was also annoying 🤣🤣 I thought he was a bit of a know-it-all and a little too old-fashioned at times, but again, this WORKED and really made me want Olivia to come out winning in the end. In fact, a lot of the characters gave me mixed emotions, and that is exactly what kept me turning the pages. This was definitely a character-driven story and I think this is something that Alison masters in her writing.
Would I recommend this book? Oh my giddy aunt, you bet I would. Beautifully written, dark, mysterious with some twists that had me jumping up in my seat! I am sad I finished this book so quickly as it was such a pleasure to read! If you haven’t read Alison’s books before, you really need to sort that out – she is AMAZING!
This novel is set in both Switzerland and Edinburgh – but the main story happens in Switzerland. Mystery is everywhere as the reader is faced with secrets from the past, loss, fear, change, a search for answers, revelations, consequences and manipulation …but so much more!
I have to say, I just LOVE Alison Baillie’s writing style – so enchanting, despite the subject matter – I was immediately drawn in as the tension and suspense pushed and pulled me with each page turned. There was an air of mystery that just hung over me, setting my synapses on fire as I eagerly read and experienced the story unfolding. This novel was rich with atmosphere and a true sense of place – I was in Switzerland – I was in Edinburgh, breathing the air ..ooooh, it was fabulous!! I also loved the sense of jeopardy that coursed through my veins… I felt it – the storyline delivered a sinister and alarming vibe. OMG it was brilliant!
Character-wise I felt like I came to know each individual. Everyone had a purpose and even those I wasn’t particularly drawn to, I had to know what happened…I cared….I needed to know! Olivia annoyed me at the best of times – her naivety made me want to shake her, but I could also empathise with her. Very well written! Christen was also annoying 🤣🤣 I thought he was a bit of a know-it-all and a little too old-fashioned at times, but again, this WORKED and really made me want Olivia to come out winning in the end. In fact, a lot of the characters gave me mixed emotions, and that is exactly what kept me turning the pages. This was definitely a character-driven story and I think this is something that Alison masters in her writing.
Would I recommend this book? Oh my giddy aunt, you bet I would. Beautifully written, dark, mysterious with some twists that had me jumping up in my seat! I am sad I finished this book so quickly as it was such a pleasure to read! If you haven’t read Alison’s books before, you really need to sort that out – she is AMAZING!
June 2, 2018
“A Fractured Winter” is a riveting mystery which you won’t be able to put down once you start it. I, for one, read it in one day because I just had to find out what was going on, and that’s definitely a sign of great writing! Olivia lives a peaceful life in a dream-worthy part of Switzerland, quiet and remote, where everyone knows each other and virtually no crimes occur. Only, one day she receives a note which reminds her of the past which she was trying so hard to escape. Soon, with a disappearance of Olivia’s daughter’s best friend, a chain of events starts to unravel, threatening to shatter the carefully guarded world she had built for herself and her family…
The idea of telling Olivia’s story in flashbacks, seamlessly connecting her past with her present, worked perfectly in this case, and I loved diving back into events of the past to find out who Olivia really is and what exactly she is hiding. The feeling of suspicion and paranoia slowly building as the narration progressed, was presented in such a way that the reader starts suspecting every person of malice together with the main heroine. The setting - beautifully vivid and picturesque - made the reading even more enjoyable, and the ending had me on the edge of my seat, hoping for the best possible outcome for Olivia and little Lara.
Fans of good mystery/thriller, this read is perfect for you. Pick it up, you’ll thank me later.
The idea of telling Olivia’s story in flashbacks, seamlessly connecting her past with her present, worked perfectly in this case, and I loved diving back into events of the past to find out who Olivia really is and what exactly she is hiding. The feeling of suspicion and paranoia slowly building as the narration progressed, was presented in such a way that the reader starts suspecting every person of malice together with the main heroine. The setting - beautifully vivid and picturesque - made the reading even more enjoyable, and the ending had me on the edge of my seat, hoping for the best possible outcome for Olivia and little Lara.
Fans of good mystery/thriller, this read is perfect for you. Pick it up, you’ll thank me later.
May 9, 2018
Oh my giddy aunt what a beautiful written well crafted story it was certainly worth the wait! I loved Alison's debut novel Sewing The Shadows Together but this story takes a whole new dimension which has totally blown me away.
I am sitting here struggling to put my thoughts into words has I don't want to give to much away. But being a massive fan of psychological thrillers and this one is truly amazing. It will eat you up inside until the very last page. There is nothing not to like and will have you guessing until the end.
Set mainly in Switzerland we follow an atmospheric read about secret's,drama and some very emotional scenes.when we meet Olivia and follow one incredible intense story with stunning descriptions that will make you feel right there in the story. Each chapter leaves you wanting more has the story alternates back to what happened weaving a story about the past and present giving us brilliant character buildup and tension. Leaving me dying to know what the connection is with the missing girl and the threatening notes.
This is one very engaging and gripping read that I highly recommend Giving it 5 well deserved stars.
I am sitting here struggling to put my thoughts into words has I don't want to give to much away. But being a massive fan of psychological thrillers and this one is truly amazing. It will eat you up inside until the very last page. There is nothing not to like and will have you guessing until the end.
Set mainly in Switzerland we follow an atmospheric read about secret's,drama and some very emotional scenes.when we meet Olivia and follow one incredible intense story with stunning descriptions that will make you feel right there in the story. Each chapter leaves you wanting more has the story alternates back to what happened weaving a story about the past and present giving us brilliant character buildup and tension. Leaving me dying to know what the connection is with the missing girl and the threatening notes.
This is one very engaging and gripping read that I highly recommend Giving it 5 well deserved stars.
April 5, 2018
I received this book from the author herself. Having previously read her Sewing the Shadows Together I was looking forward to reading this book.
I was not disappointed. Alison's writing was superb as usual and the story pulls the reader along and has you saying to yourself, just one more chapter.
This is a story that involves one protagonist bur different time frames, which all involve and intrigue the reader.
Her sense of description is superb, you can imagine yourself in the Swiss Alps and equally at home in the UK.
A story that involves secrets from the past, cults and missing children. A brilliant book , a worthy 5 stars from me. Well worth the reading
But don't listen to me. Just buy a copy and dive in! You wont be disappointed but you will have to wait. It is not published till May 1st.
Not far away!
I was not disappointed. Alison's writing was superb as usual and the story pulls the reader along and has you saying to yourself, just one more chapter.
This is a story that involves one protagonist bur different time frames, which all involve and intrigue the reader.
Her sense of description is superb, you can imagine yourself in the Swiss Alps and equally at home in the UK.
A story that involves secrets from the past, cults and missing children. A brilliant book , a worthy 5 stars from me. Well worth the reading
But don't listen to me. Just buy a copy and dive in! You wont be disappointed but you will have to wait. It is not published till May 1st.
Not far away!
February 5, 2019
# A Fractured Winter#Netgalley
I found this Novel spellbinding, poor Oliver, suddenly getting notes from her spouse, it sure doesn’t take her long to realise the marriage is over. Then when a body is discovered. Suddenly she starts wondering if it’s anything to do with why they suddenly left Scotland, there’s so much I would like to say. Without going into too much detail. And spoilers which is something I don’t do. This is so gripping and I couldn’t put it down. Very good will be looking for more books by this author
I found this Novel spellbinding, poor Oliver, suddenly getting notes from her spouse, it sure doesn’t take her long to realise the marriage is over. Then when a body is discovered. Suddenly she starts wondering if it’s anything to do with why they suddenly left Scotland, there’s so much I would like to say. Without going into too much detail. And spoilers which is something I don’t do. This is so gripping and I couldn’t put it down. Very good will be looking for more books by this author
February 4, 2019
MY REVIEW
Olivia and her husband Christian live in Switzerland, with children Julian, Marc and Lara.
All is peaceful and happy until, Olivia finds an anonymous note left for her, someone knows her secret!
Then, Sandra, a local child and one of Lara’s friends goes missing after school. They are all distraught, but this affects Olivia badly and she worries about the safety of her own children, almost obsessively.
The story, flips back to Scarborough in 1984 and little Marie is a sad little girl, with no friends and a volatile relationship with her father, due to his moods, her mother tries to keep the peace but life is fraught.
She’s and intelligent girl though and decides to go to university and when she plans to go overseas, her parents show her her birth certificate and her already fragile relationship with her parents is nearly broken.
We then travel to 1998 in Edinburgh and Lucy is attending university, but a little naive and a bit needy, Lucy finds herself pregnant after just one date. What links these girls?
Back to 2016, Switzerland and Olivia meets Aurelia, who is renovating the nearby Grand Wildenbach Hotel, Olivia is drawn to Aurelia and the hotel and the motherly comfort she receives.
But, always wondering what happened to little Sandra, Olivia begins to suspect everyone around her, becoming more and more tense and unhappy.
Alison Baillie has written a marvellously descriptive tale with details of the Swiss culture, food and the landscape which helps add to the atmosphere and then to Olivia’s believable emotional tension.
I felt it showed how feelings of guilt and low self esteem can affect a persons life and the decisions they make and, giving me, as the reader, a slightly unsettled feeling, which is a credit to Alison Baillie’s very clever writing.
There are a few ‘suspicious’ characters, and the creepiness is high right to the very end.... I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves a psychological thriller. A creepy, moody and atmospheric read.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Olivia and her husband Christian live in Switzerland, with children Julian, Marc and Lara.
All is peaceful and happy until, Olivia finds an anonymous note left for her, someone knows her secret!
Then, Sandra, a local child and one of Lara’s friends goes missing after school. They are all distraught, but this affects Olivia badly and she worries about the safety of her own children, almost obsessively.
The story, flips back to Scarborough in 1984 and little Marie is a sad little girl, with no friends and a volatile relationship with her father, due to his moods, her mother tries to keep the peace but life is fraught.
She’s and intelligent girl though and decides to go to university and when she plans to go overseas, her parents show her her birth certificate and her already fragile relationship with her parents is nearly broken.
We then travel to 1998 in Edinburgh and Lucy is attending university, but a little naive and a bit needy, Lucy finds herself pregnant after just one date. What links these girls?
Back to 2016, Switzerland and Olivia meets Aurelia, who is renovating the nearby Grand Wildenbach Hotel, Olivia is drawn to Aurelia and the hotel and the motherly comfort she receives.
But, always wondering what happened to little Sandra, Olivia begins to suspect everyone around her, becoming more and more tense and unhappy.
Alison Baillie has written a marvellously descriptive tale with details of the Swiss culture, food and the landscape which helps add to the atmosphere and then to Olivia’s believable emotional tension.
I felt it showed how feelings of guilt and low self esteem can affect a persons life and the decisions they make and, giving me, as the reader, a slightly unsettled feeling, which is a credit to Alison Baillie’s very clever writing.
There are a few ‘suspicious’ characters, and the creepiness is high right to the very end.... I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves a psychological thriller. A creepy, moody and atmospheric read.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2019
A Fractured Winter is a first read for my by Alison Baillie. I love the way she writes though and it is very easy to follow along with this psychological thriller. The characters are well developed and ones you can relate to. With out society being so crazy these days, I can definitely understand Olivia's fear about her daughter/children being taken. It is a very real world issue.
Olivia becomes very protective of her daughter, Lara, after her best friend comes up missing. When other girls turn up missing, Olivia gets even more worried. Olivia has focused her whole days on making sure that her children are ok. Olivia can't even think about going back to teaching because she wants to be available to make sure that her children are safe. Olivia is consumed with their safety.
We get a little family drama with Olivia's son, Julian. His father has come into the picture and there are some mysterious things going on there that leave the reader guessing where things might go with them. I don't want to give the story line away because it is really good reading and you will want to get the mystery and surprise like I did.
I never would have guess the ending to this story and where the missing girls were found. There are lots of twists and turns in this story that will have you wondering where things will go now. I do have to say that I love how Alison Baillie wrote the setting in the Alps so descriptively. I felt that I was in the Alps the whole time I was reading this one. Very well done! You will not regret picking this one up and reading it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for a copy of this book!
Olivia becomes very protective of her daughter, Lara, after her best friend comes up missing. When other girls turn up missing, Olivia gets even more worried. Olivia has focused her whole days on making sure that her children are ok. Olivia can't even think about going back to teaching because she wants to be available to make sure that her children are safe. Olivia is consumed with their safety.
We get a little family drama with Olivia's son, Julian. His father has come into the picture and there are some mysterious things going on there that leave the reader guessing where things might go with them. I don't want to give the story line away because it is really good reading and you will want to get the mystery and surprise like I did.
I never would have guess the ending to this story and where the missing girls were found. There are lots of twists and turns in this story that will have you wondering where things will go now. I do have to say that I love how Alison Baillie wrote the setting in the Alps so descriptively. I felt that I was in the Alps the whole time I was reading this one. Very well done! You will not regret picking this one up and reading it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for a copy of this book!
May 2, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It's a slow burner, set mainly in Switzerland, but with flashback chapters to Scarborough and Edinburgh. I thought the sense of place was terrific. I have never been to Switzerland, but it was so well described, I almost feel like I have been. And I loved finding out about the various Swiss traditions.
I liked Olivia, the central character, but thought she was too trusting, particularly taking account of the missing girl and the threatening notes. But she was clearly just trying to make connections, be accepted, after her formative years which were full of rejection. I was conflicted about Christian. I spent much of the book disliking him for his selfishness and the way he treated Olivia, but then when it mattered, he was there.
There are more characters playing important roles in the story so I won't describe them all, but they are all beautifully described. I particularly loved Stevie, the aging, faded rockstar!
I found it hard to put this book down because I wanted to know what happened. The whole thing has a slightly sinister feel to it helped, I think, by its setting. I certainly didn't guess what Olivia's secret was, or what had happened to the missing girl - I was particularly shocked about that. In a good way!
This book is very atmospheric, and touches on self doubt, emotional abuse, rejection and cults. It builds well towards the conclusion, throwing in a few red herrings along the way, and is populated by well described, well rounded characters. Highly recommend.
I liked Olivia, the central character, but thought she was too trusting, particularly taking account of the missing girl and the threatening notes. But she was clearly just trying to make connections, be accepted, after her formative years which were full of rejection. I was conflicted about Christian. I spent much of the book disliking him for his selfishness and the way he treated Olivia, but then when it mattered, he was there.
There are more characters playing important roles in the story so I won't describe them all, but they are all beautifully described. I particularly loved Stevie, the aging, faded rockstar!
I found it hard to put this book down because I wanted to know what happened. The whole thing has a slightly sinister feel to it helped, I think, by its setting. I certainly didn't guess what Olivia's secret was, or what had happened to the missing girl - I was particularly shocked about that. In a good way!
This book is very atmospheric, and touches on self doubt, emotional abuse, rejection and cults. It builds well towards the conclusion, throwing in a few red herrings along the way, and is populated by well described, well rounded characters. Highly recommend.
November 28, 2020
The pace is good. The plot is satisfactory with a few red herrings to lead the reader in different directions and there is well placed confusion as to who are the good guys really are and who the bad guys are. The settings feel authentic and are well described.
The main character, seems to be manipulated very easily in my opinion.
We are told repeatedly that the main character is bright beautiful and intelligent, but she displays very little intelligence in her life choices or her behavior or actions. She makes terrible choices and decisions about men and friends. She is inconsistent and confused. She makes huge leaps of logic based on nothing but assumptions. The things she does and the people she trusts, for an intelligent woman, appear to be based on instinct and feelings rather than thought.
Would someone who is described as very intelligent allow herself to be taken in as easily ? Some of the plot seems a little unrealistic and far fetched.
But the book was an easy and pleasant read..
The main character, seems to be manipulated very easily in my opinion.
We are told repeatedly that the main character is bright beautiful and intelligent, but she displays very little intelligence in her life choices or her behavior or actions. She makes terrible choices and decisions about men and friends. She is inconsistent and confused. She makes huge leaps of logic based on nothing but assumptions. The things she does and the people she trusts, for an intelligent woman, appear to be based on instinct and feelings rather than thought.
Would someone who is described as very intelligent allow herself to be taken in as easily ? Some of the plot seems a little unrealistic and far fetched.
But the book was an easy and pleasant read..
May 14, 2018
‘A Fractured Winter’ is a dark woven mystery about a woman with a diverse history on a confusing middle-aged journey. As Olivia’s seemingly idyllic life is shattered by a missing child, her past begins to catch up with her, and when she meets a sinister group of people near her alpine home, the narrative tumbles into a psychological suspense with some wonderfully well-formed characters ranging from an aging rock-star to an arrogant entrepreneur.
The story takes place in a fictitious alpine setting. As I am personally based in Switzerland, I can say that Baillie’s competent description of the landscape and its inscrutable population is fabulously described.
Having read Baillie’s first work ‘Sewing the Shadows Together,’ her well-crafted writing continues to improve, and I’m definitely looking forward to a third novel.
The story takes place in a fictitious alpine setting. As I am personally based in Switzerland, I can say that Baillie’s competent description of the landscape and its inscrutable population is fabulously described.
Having read Baillie’s first work ‘Sewing the Shadows Together,’ her well-crafted writing continues to improve, and I’m definitely looking forward to a third novel.
Read
May 17, 2018this is Alison's second book, a fractured winter is brillantly written and deserves the 5 stars and i loved the cover to this book. Alison's writing is superb and it has you gripped and hooked from the beginning its a right page turner,
Olivia and her family live near lake Zug in Switzerland, she married to christian and they have 2 kids together and Julian is christian's stepson,christian also works as a teacher at Julian's school, Julian starts working part time and Olivia and Julian are unsure about who this person is until Olivia meets the person.........
Olivia as a past that she thought she had escaped from, she as secrets she doesn't want anyone finding out the reason why she moved out of Scotland 11 years ago.
in parts of the book it goes back to her past to tell you about what happened and gives you more of an idea of what what her secret is...........
Olivia and her family live near lake Zug in Switzerland, she married to christian and they have 2 kids together and Julian is christian's stepson,christian also works as a teacher at Julian's school, Julian starts working part time and Olivia and Julian are unsure about who this person is until Olivia meets the person.........
Olivia as a past that she thought she had escaped from, she as secrets she doesn't want anyone finding out the reason why she moved out of Scotland 11 years ago.
in parts of the book it goes back to her past to tell you about what happened and gives you more of an idea of what what her secret is...........
June 9, 2018
There are two main strands to this story that interweave.
Two young Swiss girls go missing, one of which is the best friend of Olivia's youngest daughter. The investigation into their disappearance centers mainly on one of the girl's family, although there are several other possibilities raised.
Olivia seems to have the perfect life living with her Swiss husband and her three children. The combination of a malicious note and the girl's disappearance starts a disintegration of her well-ordered life. Through a series of flashbacks, we see Olivia's vulnerability beneath the facade. Further life events push her away from her family and into danger.
The two strands come together as Olivia discovers what happened to the girls and who sent the malicious notes.
I especially like the scenery descriptions and the Swiss traditions explained within the narrative.
Enjoyable read.
Two young Swiss girls go missing, one of which is the best friend of Olivia's youngest daughter. The investigation into their disappearance centers mainly on one of the girl's family, although there are several other possibilities raised.
Olivia seems to have the perfect life living with her Swiss husband and her three children. The combination of a malicious note and the girl's disappearance starts a disintegration of her well-ordered life. Through a series of flashbacks, we see Olivia's vulnerability beneath the facade. Further life events push her away from her family and into danger.
The two strands come together as Olivia discovers what happened to the girls and who sent the malicious notes.
I especially like the scenery descriptions and the Swiss traditions explained within the narrative.
Enjoyable read.
April 25, 2018
A Fractured Winter
Set in Switzerland the story starts with the disappearance of a young girl from a sleepy village. This disappearance sets off a chain of events for one woman, Olivia, taking her back to her birth and upbringing in England. The title of the book also describes the plot well as it is a fractured one with many fissures and cracks off the main plot line.
The story unfolds and is well told. My only issue was that I did not like Olivia at all- she came across as weak willed and easily led. Having said that I would still recommend this book to readers as my dislike of Olivia was purely personal! Happy to give this book 4 stars.
Set in Switzerland the story starts with the disappearance of a young girl from a sleepy village. This disappearance sets off a chain of events for one woman, Olivia, taking her back to her birth and upbringing in England. The title of the book also describes the plot well as it is a fractured one with many fissures and cracks off the main plot line.
The story unfolds and is well told. My only issue was that I did not like Olivia at all- she came across as weak willed and easily led. Having said that I would still recommend this book to readers as my dislike of Olivia was purely personal! Happy to give this book 4 stars.
May 1, 2018
A Fractured Winter grabbed my attention from page one and I read it in a couple of sittings, really wanting to know how the book would end and the characters would fare.
The book is set in the Swizz Alps and the descriptions of this cold and snowy landscape made me feel as though I was there. The characters are fascinating and really came a live for me. I especially felt for the main character Olivia and her husband Christian.
I had not read a Alison Baillie book before, but having thoroughly enjoyed A Fractured Winter ,I will definitely read her previous novel Sewing The Shadows Together.
I would recommend this book, and have already done so to family and friends.
The book is set in the Swizz Alps and the descriptions of this cold and snowy landscape made me feel as though I was there. The characters are fascinating and really came a live for me. I especially felt for the main character Olivia and her husband Christian.
I had not read a Alison Baillie book before, but having thoroughly enjoyed A Fractured Winter ,I will definitely read her previous novel Sewing The Shadows Together.
I would recommend this book, and have already done so to family and friends.
April 21, 2018
It’s not very often that I rate a book five stars but in this case it totally deserves a five star review . Right from the first page I just knew I was going to love this book. The story is set mainly in Switzerland with flashbacks to Scotland . The descriptions of the scenery and life in Switzerland is so well described that at times I almost felt I was there. Absolutely brilliant.
In received an advanced E- copy of this book from TBConFB. My thanks to TBC and the author Alison Baillie for giving me this opportunity. My review is entirely my own honest opinion .
In received an advanced E- copy of this book from TBConFB. My thanks to TBC and the author Alison Baillie for giving me this opportunity. My review is entirely my own honest opinion .
May 2, 2018
Wow! The first book I have read by this author and I can’t wait to read her other work. This story had everything that I love in a book; a great plot, real to life characters, suspense and a dark nest of secrets. The details of the locations was exquisite and I really felt that I was an onlooker as events took place. It was a challenging read but for all the right reasons. I thoroughly recommend this book to readers who enjoy a cleverly written and atmospheric story with a great plot full of mystery and dark suspense.
October 19, 2018
Highly recommended.
Quite a lot going on in this story but it is all woven together wonderfully, and the threads come together to provide a good end. Well written, with vivid descriptions that paint clear pictures for the reader to enjoy (Alps, Switzerland and Edinburgh). Characters are well constructed, believable and easy to identify. Suspense and mystery build steadily and certainly kept me turning the pages. Personally, I'm not a fan of flashbacks so these took a slight edge off for me, but didn't prevent me from enjoying the story. Otherwise, highly recommended.
Quite a lot going on in this story but it is all woven together wonderfully, and the threads come together to provide a good end. Well written, with vivid descriptions that paint clear pictures for the reader to enjoy (Alps, Switzerland and Edinburgh). Characters are well constructed, believable and easy to identify. Suspense and mystery build steadily and certainly kept me turning the pages. Personally, I'm not a fan of flashbacks so these took a slight edge off for me, but didn't prevent me from enjoying the story. Otherwise, highly recommended.
April 24, 2018
"A Fractured Winter" by Alison Baillie is a cleverly woven tale of twisted secrets and lies.
The atmosphere is so well written that I felt that I was there experiencing the main characters highs and lows.
As the story progressed it surprised me many times to the direction it was leading.
I really enjoyed this book, but the final chapter did feel a bit slushy and contrived. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
The atmosphere is so well written that I felt that I was there experiencing the main characters highs and lows.
As the story progressed it surprised me many times to the direction it was leading.
I really enjoyed this book, but the final chapter did feel a bit slushy and contrived. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
May 3, 2018
A brilliant tale of intrigue taking the reader back to the past to explain the present. This story is a mystery but also a life story. The writing is beautifully descriptive and I really got a sense is the beautiful scenery and the cold landscape. The characters are well rounded and enjoyable. The story kept me wanting to devour more and needing to know what would happen next. . I also did not expect the ending. .
May 8, 2018
To start....I really liked the cover photo, it left me feeling isolated and chilly. As I got through the book I realised I really wasn't keen on the main character at all, so much so I wanted to slap her! I realise that simply means that Alison is a good writer who has created a very real persona complete with failings. (The best character was the woman who ran the creche in Edinburgh, but then again I may be slightly prejudiced on that score.) It's an eminently readable book which I enjoyed.
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