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Winterhouse #3
The Winterhouse Mysteries
Danger, intrigue, and the power of family combine in The Winterhouse Mysteries , the fast-paced conclusion to Ben Guterson and Chloe Bristol's illustrated, enchanting Winterhouse middle grade trilogy.
It’s springtime at Winterhouse and Elizabeth is settling into the joyful chaos of her new home. But it isn’t long before she and Freddy are drawn into an ominous new mystery. Guests at the hotel start behaving oddly, and Elizabeth’s powers manifest in thrilling―sometimes frightening―new ways. As unnatural tremors shake the foundations of Winterhouse, Elizabeth hears cries for help from Gracella Winters, a villain she’d thought dead and gone for good.
Elizabeth’s discovery of a rare book containing secrets of an ancient ritual leads to a tragic someone at the hotel is trying to help Gracella rise again. Can Elizabeth and Freddy banish these threats and protect the future of Winterhouse once and for all?
Christy Ottaviano Books
It’s springtime at Winterhouse and Elizabeth is settling into the joyful chaos of her new home. But it isn’t long before she and Freddy are drawn into an ominous new mystery. Guests at the hotel start behaving oddly, and Elizabeth’s powers manifest in thrilling―sometimes frightening―new ways. As unnatural tremors shake the foundations of Winterhouse, Elizabeth hears cries for help from Gracella Winters, a villain she’d thought dead and gone for good.
Elizabeth’s discovery of a rare book containing secrets of an ancient ritual leads to a tragic someone at the hotel is trying to help Gracella rise again. Can Elizabeth and Freddy banish these threats and protect the future of Winterhouse once and for all?
Christy Ottaviano Books
400 pages, Paperback
First published December 31, 2019
177 people are currently reading
2397 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 333 reviews
February 6, 2024
I really enjoyed this, what a cracking wrap up to the series. Had a blast with this whole series.
April 11, 2020
This series started so good, yet, for some reason, the author chose to basically rehash the same plot over and over again. Why bring back a villian that's already been defeated twice? Why not create a new mystery and go on new adventures? Unfortunately, the plot was just too similar to the other books in the series and made me lose interest overall. I loved the first book, the second and third books were a real let down for me.
April 30, 2020
I'm so happy to have finished this awesome trilogy. It's a little sad to say goodbye to these characters, but these three books were so much fun to read. I will say that this final installment was a little lackluster, but in the end it worked itself out and was a great conclusion to Elizabeth's story. Highly recommend this trilogy if you're looking for a something thrilling and magical. :)
December 20, 2024
5.43 on CAWPILE
March 16, 2022
While I did quite enjoy reading the first of Ben Guterson's three Winterhouse novels (which is of course just titled Winterhouse), even in book one, even in the first novel, the cardboard thin quality of the villains, of basically ALL of the villains and that they are so obviously depicted and described by the author, by Guterson as being just so horrible and so inherently evil that not only main protagonist Elizabeth Somers (and her sidekick Freddy) but really (and in my humble opinion) every single reader easily and proverbially can (or at least should) be able to quasi smell these miscreants, these villains from thousands of miles away so to speak, this is indeed, this has most definitely been rather textually annoying, frustrating and as such also quite reading pleasure and interest lessening. And sadly, the above (the woeful one dimensionality of Ben Guterson's villains), this is even more strongly a reading issue in the two sequels, and with in the third novel, with in The Winterhouse Mysteries readers totally and abolutely knowing right from the start that Gracella is coming back and that Elizabeth and Freddy willl need to stop her once and for all, somehting that might of course make sense as an ending for both The Winterhouse Mysteries and the entire series but also something that for me should definitely be narrationally rendered by Ben Guterson as less obvious and less same old, same old.
Because I for one do textually think and believe that Ben Guterson basically just rehashes pretty much the same type of plot with mirror image villains in all three of his Winterhouse novels, and while The Winterhouse Mysteries certainly presents an I guess decent enough ending for the series, with Elizabeth and Freddy finally and lastingly getting rid of and defeating Gracella and company (and hopefully forever this time), I have most certainly not found the Winterhouse novels as a series with their tediously one-sided villains (and also with protagonists and heroes that sometimes and even far too often feel rather one sided and on the surface as well) in any way spectacular and all that enjoyable, but instead mostly rather tedious and often dragging reading experiences, and that indeed I am more than happy to finally be done with The Winterhouse Mysteries (and with the entire series), and furthermore, that there hopefully will not be any more Winterhouse instalments considered by Ben Guterson in the future, since if there will be, my completist self will likely even if grudgingly consider reading them.
Because I for one do textually think and believe that Ben Guterson basically just rehashes pretty much the same type of plot with mirror image villains in all three of his Winterhouse novels, and while The Winterhouse Mysteries certainly presents an I guess decent enough ending for the series, with Elizabeth and Freddy finally and lastingly getting rid of and defeating Gracella and company (and hopefully forever this time), I have most certainly not found the Winterhouse novels as a series with their tediously one-sided villains (and also with protagonists and heroes that sometimes and even far too often feel rather one sided and on the surface as well) in any way spectacular and all that enjoyable, but instead mostly rather tedious and often dragging reading experiences, and that indeed I am more than happy to finally be done with The Winterhouse Mysteries (and with the entire series), and furthermore, that there hopefully will not be any more Winterhouse instalments considered by Ben Guterson in the future, since if there will be, my completist self will likely even if grudgingly consider reading them.
March 1, 2020
I feel as if this series has so much wonderful potential, yet, for some reason, Guterson chose to basically rehash the same plot points over and over again. It was a real let down.
Things that were interesting: The sub-plots surrounding the mine, and Damien Crowley, were interesting. Also, having the 35,000 piece puzzle just be more than a jigsaw puzzle was fascinating. That was an item that appeared in all the books, and as a reader you just thought it was a diversion for the guests. To have it be more was intriguing.
Things that fell short: The ending, yet again, was much the same as the other two books. Change a few words, adjust the setting, but it was essentially the same ending again. To me, this just seems so lazy. Each book could have stood on its own with a different mystery, a different big puzzle to solve instead of rehashing the same ideas over and over.
I loved the first book, the second and third books had moments that were good, but, in my view, the endings were sloppy and lazy and a real let down as a reader.
Things that were interesting: The sub-plots surrounding the mine, and Damien Crowley, were interesting. Also, having the 35,000 piece puzzle just be more than a jigsaw puzzle was fascinating. That was an item that appeared in all the books, and as a reader you just thought it was a diversion for the guests. To have it be more was intriguing.
Things that fell short: The ending, yet again, was much the same as the other two books. Change a few words, adjust the setting, but it was essentially the same ending again. To me, this just seems so lazy. Each book could have stood on its own with a different mystery, a different big puzzle to solve instead of rehashing the same ideas over and over.
I loved the first book, the second and third books had moments that were good, but, in my view, the endings were sloppy and lazy and a real let down as a reader.
April 21, 2022
A wonderful finale to a magical MG trilogy for anyone who enjoys riddles any mysteries.
April 10, 2023
3'5⭐YOUTUBE / INSTAGRAM
¡Fin de la trilogía del Hotel Winterhouse! La verdad es que ha sido una lectura middle-grade entretenida, para pasar un rato a gusto con el libro entre manos, disfrutando de la historia, las ilustraciones y la ambientación del hotel, que para mí es lo mejor de todo.
Me gusta que la trama esté plagada de pequeños rompecabezas y misterios (normalmente relacionados con las palabras). En esta tercera entrega, además, se cierran varias hilos que han estado ahí a lo largo de los dos libros anteriores y me ha gustado esa sensación satisfactoria de cierre que deja.
Sé que hay gente que habría preferido más originalidad en lo que se refiere al villano, y en parte estoy de acuerdo, pero bueno, tampoco es extraño que en las sagas middle-garde el villano sea recurrente.
También debo destacar el trabajazo general de traducción que hay detrás de todas esas rimas, juegos de palabras, anagramas, etc. No obstante, me apena que, habiendo tanto esfuerzo detrás de esa parte, luego nadie (ni traductora, correctora, editora, NADIE) se haya dado cuenta de que hay títulos inventados cuando los libros a los que se refieren están publicados en catalán, de modo que habría sido muy fácil y mucho más útil para el lector poner los títulos con los que se encuentran esos libros en cualquier librería.
¡Fin de la trilogía del Hotel Winterhouse! La verdad es que ha sido una lectura middle-grade entretenida, para pasar un rato a gusto con el libro entre manos, disfrutando de la historia, las ilustraciones y la ambientación del hotel, que para mí es lo mejor de todo.
Me gusta que la trama esté plagada de pequeños rompecabezas y misterios (normalmente relacionados con las palabras). En esta tercera entrega, además, se cierran varias hilos que han estado ahí a lo largo de los dos libros anteriores y me ha gustado esa sensación satisfactoria de cierre que deja.
Sé que hay gente que habría preferido más originalidad en lo que se refiere al villano, y en parte estoy de acuerdo, pero bueno, tampoco es extraño que en las sagas middle-garde el villano sea recurrente.
También debo destacar el trabajazo general de traducción que hay detrás de todas esas rimas, juegos de palabras, anagramas, etc. No obstante, me apena que, habiendo tanto esfuerzo detrás de esa parte, luego nadie (ni traductora, correctora, editora, NADIE) se haya dado cuenta de que hay títulos inventados cuando los libros a los que se refieren están publicados en catalán, de modo que habría sido muy fácil y mucho más útil para el lector poner los títulos con los que se encuentran esos libros en cualquier librería.
February 15, 2020
Neatly wraps up the three-book series. Far from predictable. Filled with word puzzles, surprises, and the quirky Winterhouse in the vein of the first two books. When I finished Book 2, I was concerned that the series was going in a direction that was too dark/paranormal for the kids who fell in love with the first book. In this third book, there is not doubt that redemption and grace play a much larger role. Come back to Winterhouse one more time. You won't be sorry.
August 10, 2020
3.5. This is probably best read than listened to die to the visual puzzle involved.
This is the third book of the Winter House Series. Is it a trilogy? Anyway it's a great series and I'm sure kids will love it as it's not even too bad for adults.
This is the third book of the Winter House Series. Is it a trilogy? Anyway it's a great series and I'm sure kids will love it as it's not even too bad for adults.
December 1, 2021
This was such a cute series and I'm a bit sad that it's over. Elizabeth and Freddy are so smart and I love all the puzzles they find in Winterhouse. I also think their friendship is adorable and I'm happy there's no romance or even crushes, they're only twelve after all. Winterhouse continues to be an amazing place and one of my top choices of fictional places I'd visit if I could.
Elizabeth gets a bit darker in this one, using her new powers for "pranks" that come close to hurting others. She might be under the influence of a certain person we thought was gone and she and Freddy will have to figure out how to stop the evil for good.
These are pretty short and have a good pace. The narrator on the audiobook is cute and I'm definitely on the look out for more books from this author.
Elizabeth gets a bit darker in this one, using her new powers for "pranks" that come close to hurting others. She might be under the influence of a certain person we thought was gone and she and Freddy will have to figure out how to stop the evil for good.
These are pretty short and have a good pace. The narrator on the audiobook is cute and I'm definitely on the look out for more books from this author.
January 20, 2020
Absolutely LOVE this trilogy...what a terrific ending! (At least I think it is the end...)
November 22, 2020
This is def one my fav MG series!
December 5, 2022
Wat was het weer heerlijk om Winterhuis Hotel te bezoeken!
Was deze serie er maar toen ik vroeger de leeftijd van de doelgroep had. Zeker weten dat ik deze boeken meerdere malen had gelezen. Precies het sfeertje wat ik fijn vindt om te lezen, het voelt aan als een dekentje en een kopje thee. Ook de mysteries in de boeken vind ik erg leuk om over te lezen. Ik kan me goed verplaatsen in het hoofdpersonage.
Echt wel een favoriete kinderserie van me, samen met Pages & Co, De Tempeljagers en Het Ministerie van Oplossingen!
Was deze serie er maar toen ik vroeger de leeftijd van de doelgroep had. Zeker weten dat ik deze boeken meerdere malen had gelezen. Precies het sfeertje wat ik fijn vindt om te lezen, het voelt aan als een dekentje en een kopje thee. Ook de mysteries in de boeken vind ik erg leuk om over te lezen. Ik kan me goed verplaatsen in het hoofdpersonage.
Echt wel een favoriete kinderserie van me, samen met Pages & Co, De Tempeljagers en Het Ministerie van Oplossingen!
October 18, 2024
It all came together so well!! I love the artwork in here too, it really helped build suspense throughout the book.
September 28, 2022
When I got done reading this (which was earlier today) I realized I never really reviewed the first two books of this series. My review of book 1 was short and boring because I had just gotten Goodreads and wasn't great at reviewing yet, and when I reviewed it I hadn't actually finished it because I was busy. And as for the second one, well, I just never got around to reviewing it. 😂 So, I'm gonna review them all in this review, since I felt the same about all three books.
And those feelings are that I absolutely LOVED these books!!!💕
***************
The Plot (and my feelings about it) :
Elizabeth Somers is a orphan living with her mean Aunt and Uncle. She hates her life, until her Aunt and Uncle send her away to the Winterhouse hotel, home of Lake Luna and the wonderful candy Flurschen, over Christmas. 💕 She meets a boy named Freddy and they both begin to uncover the mystery surrounding Winterhouse. Eventually, (in book two I think?) Elizabeth starts living at Winterhouse, after learning Norbridge, the hotel owner, is really her Grandfather. As time goes on, Elizabeth starts to realize every little thing seems to hold a mystery, and all the mysteries surround one person: Norbridge's deceased sister, Gracella, and Elizabeth starts to develop magical powers, related to the Falls lineage. 😱 In this book, book 3, Elizabeth 's power starts to manifest itself in New , powerful ways, as the fight against Gracella comes to an end.
I thought this plot was exciting, mysterious, and fun. There was SO much stuff to go to it. The mysteries wouldn't end, and I loved it. There was also all kinds of puzzles and wordplay in this book and it was so fun. Elizabeth and Freddy were both great at uncovering all the secrets of Winterhouse. I know if it were me I would take forever to get halfway through the mysteries, and then I'd give up. 😂😂😂 The plot moved nicely, I thought, and all the mysteries and problems were well resolved by the end.
**************
The Characters (and my feelings about them) :
I personally LOVED every single character in this book. (Exept Gracella, ofc. 😅👍) Here's an overview of some of them:
Elizabeth - She is our main Character, and I must say, I love her. She is smart, nerdy, independent, brave, and kind. She had flaws, and Imo, she was pretty realistic. She was such a nerd and I could relate to her in so many ways. She was a fun character to follow, and I loved reading her thoughts. She loved to read,and I think anyone on GR would absolutely love her character for that reason.😂 She was just...I loved her. 💕😊
Freddy - FREDDY THOOOO. He was great. He was so smart, funny, interesting, and lovable. Like, all I can say is that I love him. Words cannot explain. 😂👍 He and Elizabeth together was just ❤. Yay. HE WAS JUST PERFECT!! AHH 😍
Norbridge - I liked this character. He was quite funny, and a great Grandfather to Elizabeth. He taught her some great lessons, and he was always there for her. 💕 At times he didn't completely support uncovering the mysteries, and that was kinda annoying, but I still liked him.
Leona - I loved Leona! She is the Winterhouse librarian, and a kind, curious soul.
The Bellhops - IT WOULD BE A C R I M E TO NOT MENTION MY FAVORITE BELLHOPS, SAMSON AND JACKSON!!! WOOO!!! I love them both sm. Especially Samson. They were both so funny and kind. For some reason I absolutely love side characters such as Bellhops, Guards, Butlers, and Maid. *chefs kiss* 😍💕👍
Elena - And of course!!! Elena was cool. She annoyed me sometimes though. I felt really bad when she got turned into an old woman.😱👎
Hyrum - OK THIS IS THE LAST ONE I MENTION. I PROMISE. 😂 I loved Hyrum. His stress about school was relatable. And him being related to Elizabeth was SUCH A SHOCKERRRRR 😲😲😲
*****************
The Writing and Illustrations (and how I felt about them) :
I really liked the writing! It was understandable, fun, and it fit the story. Like I mentioned, there is a lot of word games in here, like anagrams (I have tried to make a anagram of my name. It's impossible, like what do I do with two Ys!?!?😂), palindromes, hidden words, word ladders (although there weren't many word ladders in book three, I just realized 👀) and etc. AND THE ILLUSTRATIONS !!! MMWAH! 💕 I LOVED THEM!! They were really different, but SO FUN!
******************
And, in conclusion, some random thoughts and a sum up of my very long review:
Ok, first of all, someone NEEDS to make a cartoon series out of these books!!!! Like, they NEED to!!!!! That would be SO. STINKIN. CUTEEEE!!!! I WOULD SO WATCH!!!!💕💕💕💕
Also, Winterhouse is my home. Ok? That's all. Even though...(I CAN'T SAY IT!!) ...it doesn't exsist. There. I said it. 😥 But fr. I love Winterhouse and all its little secrets. I want to live there, and become part of the t e a m (Elizabeth, Freddy, and Elana) like, legit, Winterhouse is my dream....😍💕
This was one of those books where, after it ended, my imagination continued making the story. Even though it's not my story. I love those types of books. 💕 I kinda HAD to do that with this book, though, because I needed more cute Elizabeth and Freddy moments. I mean moments like this excerpt from the book:
And after quick hugs with both her friends, she departed the Tower--only to find herself stopping halfway down the corridor when she heard Freddy's voice behind her: "Elizabeth!"
She turned around to see him following. "Didn't we say goodbye, like, five seconds ago?" she laughed.
Freddy pushed at his glasses and smiled awkwardly. "I know." He glanced back toward the door to the Tower. " It's just, I wanted to tell you... " Freddy stopped speaking; he was unable to finish his sentence.
"What?"
"You were right, you know," Freddy said. "Out there when we saw that red cloth. About making sure we looked into things, and keeping Winterhouse protected, and all of that."
Elizabeth shrugged. "You and I both love this place. We're a team, right? We want to make sure Winterhouse is okay."
"But you really put yourself out there to make it happen. You're the one, Elizabeth. You saved Winterhouse. Just like you did twice before. I guess I just wanted to say, I don't know, thank you or let you know I think it's cool, everything you've done."
Quickly, as if to conceal something he felt but couldn't say, Freddy lifted his arm and held his fist out for Elizabeth to tap. Instead, she leaned forward and, with all the delicate and tender precision she might use to turn the page on a precious book, put a kiss on Freddy's cheek.
His eyes widened as Elizabeth backed away, smiling.
"Wow," Freddy said, putting a hand to his face.
"Nice palindrome," Elizabeth said. She resumed walking down the corridor. "I'll see you at the skating rink!" she added, before bursting into a run.
I just... It's so pure. 😍💕😍💕 Also, sorry for such a long review!! XDDD
Alright, lastly, I recommend this to EVERYONE. PLEASE. READ IT. I'M NOT KIDDING.
And those feelings are that I absolutely LOVED these books!!!💕
***************
The Plot (and my feelings about it) :
Elizabeth Somers is a orphan living with her mean Aunt and Uncle. She hates her life, until her Aunt and Uncle send her away to the Winterhouse hotel, home of Lake Luna and the wonderful candy Flurschen, over Christmas. 💕 She meets a boy named Freddy and they both begin to uncover the mystery surrounding Winterhouse. Eventually, (in book two I think?) Elizabeth starts living at Winterhouse, after learning Norbridge, the hotel owner, is really her Grandfather. As time goes on, Elizabeth starts to realize every little thing seems to hold a mystery, and all the mysteries surround one person: Norbridge's deceased sister, Gracella, and Elizabeth starts to develop magical powers, related to the Falls lineage. 😱 In this book, book 3, Elizabeth 's power starts to manifest itself in New , powerful ways, as the fight against Gracella comes to an end.
I thought this plot was exciting, mysterious, and fun. There was SO much stuff to go to it. The mysteries wouldn't end, and I loved it. There was also all kinds of puzzles and wordplay in this book and it was so fun. Elizabeth and Freddy were both great at uncovering all the secrets of Winterhouse. I know if it were me I would take forever to get halfway through the mysteries, and then I'd give up. 😂😂😂 The plot moved nicely, I thought, and all the mysteries and problems were well resolved by the end.
**************
The Characters (and my feelings about them) :
I personally LOVED every single character in this book. (Exept Gracella, ofc. 😅👍) Here's an overview of some of them:
Elizabeth - She is our main Character, and I must say, I love her. She is smart, nerdy, independent, brave, and kind. She had flaws, and Imo, she was pretty realistic. She was such a nerd and I could relate to her in so many ways. She was a fun character to follow, and I loved reading her thoughts. She loved to read,and I think anyone on GR would absolutely love her character for that reason.😂 She was just...I loved her. 💕😊
Freddy - FREDDY THOOOO. He was great. He was so smart, funny, interesting, and lovable. Like, all I can say is that I love him. Words cannot explain. 😂👍 He and Elizabeth together was just ❤. Yay. HE WAS JUST PERFECT!! AHH 😍
Norbridge - I liked this character. He was quite funny, and a great Grandfather to Elizabeth. He taught her some great lessons, and he was always there for her. 💕 At times he didn't completely support uncovering the mysteries, and that was kinda annoying, but I still liked him.
Leona - I loved Leona! She is the Winterhouse librarian, and a kind, curious soul.
The Bellhops - IT WOULD BE A C R I M E TO NOT MENTION MY FAVORITE BELLHOPS, SAMSON AND JACKSON!!! WOOO!!! I love them both sm. Especially Samson. They were both so funny and kind. For some reason I absolutely love side characters such as Bellhops, Guards, Butlers, and Maid. *chefs kiss* 😍💕👍
Elena - And of course!!! Elena was cool. She annoyed me sometimes though. I felt really bad when she got turned into an old woman.😱👎
Hyrum - OK THIS IS THE LAST ONE I MENTION. I PROMISE. 😂 I loved Hyrum. His stress about school was relatable. And him being related to Elizabeth was SUCH A SHOCKERRRRR 😲😲😲
*****************
The Writing and Illustrations (and how I felt about them) :
I really liked the writing! It was understandable, fun, and it fit the story. Like I mentioned, there is a lot of word games in here, like anagrams (I have tried to make a anagram of my name. It's impossible, like what do I do with two Ys!?!?😂), palindromes, hidden words, word ladders (although there weren't many word ladders in book three, I just realized 👀) and etc. AND THE ILLUSTRATIONS !!! MMWAH! 💕 I LOVED THEM!! They were really different, but SO FUN!
******************
And, in conclusion, some random thoughts and a sum up of my very long review:
Ok, first of all, someone NEEDS to make a cartoon series out of these books!!!! Like, they NEED to!!!!! That would be SO. STINKIN. CUTEEEE!!!! I WOULD SO WATCH!!!!💕💕💕💕
Also, Winterhouse is my home. Ok? That's all. Even though...(I CAN'T SAY IT!!) ...it doesn't exsist. There. I said it. 😥 But fr. I love Winterhouse and all its little secrets. I want to live there, and become part of the t e a m (Elizabeth, Freddy, and Elana) like, legit, Winterhouse is my dream....😍💕
This was one of those books where, after it ended, my imagination continued making the story. Even though it's not my story. I love those types of books. 💕 I kinda HAD to do that with this book, though, because I needed more cute Elizabeth and Freddy moments. I mean moments like this excerpt from the book:
And after quick hugs with both her friends, she departed the Tower--only to find herself stopping halfway down the corridor when she heard Freddy's voice behind her: "Elizabeth!"
She turned around to see him following. "Didn't we say goodbye, like, five seconds ago?" she laughed.
Freddy pushed at his glasses and smiled awkwardly. "I know." He glanced back toward the door to the Tower. " It's just, I wanted to tell you... " Freddy stopped speaking; he was unable to finish his sentence.
"What?"
"You were right, you know," Freddy said. "Out there when we saw that red cloth. About making sure we looked into things, and keeping Winterhouse protected, and all of that."
Elizabeth shrugged. "You and I both love this place. We're a team, right? We want to make sure Winterhouse is okay."
"But you really put yourself out there to make it happen. You're the one, Elizabeth. You saved Winterhouse. Just like you did twice before. I guess I just wanted to say, I don't know, thank you or let you know I think it's cool, everything you've done."
Quickly, as if to conceal something he felt but couldn't say, Freddy lifted his arm and held his fist out for Elizabeth to tap. Instead, she leaned forward and, with all the delicate and tender precision she might use to turn the page on a precious book, put a kiss on Freddy's cheek.
His eyes widened as Elizabeth backed away, smiling.
"Wow," Freddy said, putting a hand to his face.
"Nice palindrome," Elizabeth said. She resumed walking down the corridor. "I'll see you at the skating rink!" she added, before bursting into a run.
I just... It's so pure. 😍💕😍💕 Also, sorry for such a long review!! XDDD
Alright, lastly, I recommend this to EVERYONE. PLEASE. READ IT. I'M NOT KIDDING.
February 14, 2021
*2
The concluding book in the Winterhouse trilogy, The Winterhouse Mysteries follows Elizabeth, Freddy, and friends for another holiday—this time, Easter—as a dark force looms, bringing a final threat to the hotel.
Much like the second book, The Winterhouse Mysteries felt a bit too repetitive. In essence, the plot, the villain, the motivations, and the conclusion essentially repeat the events of the first book with slight variations. At the same time, the major revelations and puzzle—the identity of the final magical object in Winterhouse—were not only predictable, but obvious. As such, the inability for the characters to solve the major mystery in the book was frustrating. Additionally, the ending was too quick and failed to adequately (or believably, in some cases) wrap things up.
The plot lacked any sort of dynamism and ingenuity, and paired with characters that felt more one-dimensional than previous installments, The Winterhouse Mysteries was a bit of a disappointment.
The concluding book in the Winterhouse trilogy, The Winterhouse Mysteries follows Elizabeth, Freddy, and friends for another holiday—this time, Easter—as a dark force looms, bringing a final threat to the hotel.
Much like the second book, The Winterhouse Mysteries felt a bit too repetitive. In essence, the plot, the villain, the motivations, and the conclusion essentially repeat the events of the first book with slight variations. At the same time, the major revelations and puzzle—the identity of the final magical object in Winterhouse—were not only predictable, but obvious. As such, the inability for the characters to solve the major mystery in the book was frustrating. Additionally, the ending was too quick and failed to adequately (or believably, in some cases) wrap things up.
The plot lacked any sort of dynamism and ingenuity, and paired with characters that felt more one-dimensional than previous installments, The Winterhouse Mysteries was a bit of a disappointment.
April 19, 2021
“Everything’s as normal as ever at Winterhouse.”
This is a great trilogy and it came to a satisfying, if a bit drawn-out, conclusion.
I loved going back to Winterhouse, and this time in the spring! It’s Easter week and Elizabeth must once again defend Winterhouse from Gracella.
The Winterhouse books are very clever and fun. I love the witty wordplay and puzzles - they're reminiscent of The Mysterious Benedict Society in that aspect. The atmosphere of hotel setting is also wonderful.
The driving force in the books - Gracella attempting to come back - was a little stale by this one, but I still enjoyed it.
“If you take nothing else with you when you leave Winterhouse…take this moment. Remember that you were here and how you felt just now. Because these moments sustain us. They inspire us. And it is so easy to forget.”
Definitely recommended to readers of all ages.
This is a great trilogy and it came to a satisfying, if a bit drawn-out, conclusion.
I loved going back to Winterhouse, and this time in the spring! It’s Easter week and Elizabeth must once again defend Winterhouse from Gracella.
The Winterhouse books are very clever and fun. I love the witty wordplay and puzzles - they're reminiscent of The Mysterious Benedict Society in that aspect. The atmosphere of hotel setting is also wonderful.
The driving force in the books - Gracella attempting to come back - was a little stale by this one, but I still enjoyed it.
“If you take nothing else with you when you leave Winterhouse…take this moment. Remember that you were here and how you felt just now. Because these moments sustain us. They inspire us. And it is so easy to forget.”
Definitely recommended to readers of all ages.
July 10, 2024
Gracella is probably the flattest villain I've ever encountered. Why is she villainous, you might ask? Because people didn't accept her interests. That's like if Troy Bolton from high school musical became an evil sorcerer determined to destroy his basketball team, all because they didn't accept the fact that he wanted to audition for the musical.
I don't know if I find this writer creative or extremely uncreative. He's uncreative because this is the THIRD book in the series, and he still uses the villain he introduced in book 1. Somewhere I find it creative how he managed to use the same plot (Elizabeth comes to the hotel, mysterious guests and word puzzles, GRACELLA OH NO, Gracella is defeated by Elizabeth) in 3 slightly different books.
3/5☆
I don't know if I find this writer creative or extremely uncreative. He's uncreative because this is the THIRD book in the series, and he still uses the villain he introduced in book 1. Somewhere I find it creative how he managed to use the same plot (Elizabeth comes to the hotel, mysterious guests and word puzzles, GRACELLA OH NO, Gracella is defeated by Elizabeth) in 3 slightly different books.
3/5☆
December 30, 2021
Not as pacey and exciting as the previous two - I think he was struggling to tie it altogether for the finale, maybe? But still a good ending for the characters. Someone really needs to pay these kids for all the actual work they do, though 😂
March 10, 2020
I really enjoyed this series as a whole. This book took awhile to get into the plot a little drawn out. Included more word puzzles which was fun. Good overcomes the evil. Would read the series again.
July 1, 2020
Actual rating 2.5. A fun mystery but bogged down with a repetitive plot. I did like the character growth we saw in Elizabeth though. So good. Would definitely recommend to middle grade readers.
January 7, 2024
A wonderful continuation! Idk if it's the end of a trilogy or if the author is writing more, but it was another great book with twists- some that I did guess and some that I didn't!
November 15, 2020
Da mir die ersten beiden Bände der Winterhaus-Trilogie unbeschreiblich gut gefallen haben, habe ich mich auf das Finale tierisch gefreut. Auch bei diesem Band war es sofort um mich geschehen, als ich das Cover das erste Mal sah. Sieht es nicht umwerfend aus? Also ich liebe es! Ich feiere die Cover aller drei Bände einfach so richtig. Unter den Schutzumschlägen verbergen sich übrigens auch wahre Hingucker.
Die äußere Gestaltung von Band 3 konnte mich also schon mal vollkommen verzaubern. Ich war nun sehr gespannt, ob mich auch das, was zwischen den Buchdeckeln schlummert, genauso begeistern wird.
Ostern steht vor der Tür und obwohl es mittlerweile Frühling ist, herrschen draußen immer noch frostige Temperaturen. Während es noch kräftig schneit, fiebert Elizabeth dem Wiedersehen mit ihrem besten Freund Freddy ungeduldig entgegen. Er wird zusammen mit seinen Eltern die Osterferien im Hotel Winterhaus verbringen – Elizabeths neues Zuhause. Ein Zuhause voller Geheimnisse und Magie. Bereits vor Freddys Ankunft ereignen sich seltsame Dinge und auch während seines Aufenthalts hören die unerklärlichen Vorkommnisse nicht auf. Die Erde bebt immer wieder, einige Hotelgäste verhalten sich äußerst merkwürdig...Elizabeth wird das Gefühl einfach nicht los, dass an Ostern etwas passieren wird. Irgendetwas, das mit Gracella zusammenhängt. Aber kann das wirklich sein? Gracella ist doch schließlich verschwunden. Oder vielleicht doch nicht?
Elizabeth glaubt immer mehr daran, dass Gracella versucht zurückzukehren wird. Dies muss unbedingt verhindert werden! Gemeinsam mit Freddy beginnt sie zu ermitteln...
Da es bei mir nun schon wieder über ein Jahr ist, dass ich den zweiten Band gelesen habe, hatte ich zu Beginn ganz leichte Startschwierigkeiten, muss ich gestehen. Bei der Winterhaus-Serie sollte man auf jeden Fall die chronologische Reihenfolge der Bände einhalten, da sie sehr aufeinander aufbauen! Um dem Geschehen im dritten Teil mühelos folgen zu können, braucht man meiner Ansicht nach das Vorwissen aus den beiden Vorgängern.
Meine Einstiegsprobleme waren glücklicherweise im Nu überwunden. Nachdem ich einmal komplett in die besondere Winterhaus-Welt zurückgefunden hatte, gab es kein Halten mehr für mich und ich wollte nur noch eines tun: Lesen! Da ich das Buch dann auch tatsächlich kaum mehr aus der Hand gelegt habe, habe ich es richtiggehend verschlungen und für meinen Geschmack leider viel zu schnell wieder beendet. Echt schade, dass dies der letzte Band ist. Ich würde so, so gerne noch weitere Abenteuer im einmaligen Hotel Winterhaus erleben. Ich finde diese Reihe einfach nur großartig. Auch das Finale konnte mich Anfang bis Ende verzücken und begeistern.
Ben Guterson ist mit „Die Magie von Winterhaus“ in meinen Augen ein rundum gelungener Abschlussband geglückt, der wie die zwei vorherigen Bände eine packende Geschichte voller Mysterien und Magie erzählt und von Beginn an eine fantastische Stimmung verströmt. Die Atmosphäre in dieser Trilogie zählt ganz klar zu meinen Highlights. Sie ist so wunderbar magisch und rätselhaft und so schön winterlich. Ihr könnt mir glauben: Die Einbände und auch der Titel versprechen definitiv nicht zu viel – die Winterhaus-Trilogie ist die perfekte Lektüre für die kalte Jahreszeit! Der dritte Teil spielt zwar an Ostern, aber da nach wie vor Schnee liegt und es eisig kalt draußen ist, beschert uns auch dieser Band ein richtig tolles Winter-Feeling.
Von der Kulisse könnte ich euch mal wieder endlos etwas vorschwärmen. Die Schauplätze im herrschaftlichen Hotel Winterhaus werden erneut grandios beschrieben, sag ich euch. Ich wäre beim Lesen abermals nur zu gerne in das Buch hineingekrochen, um mir diesen beeindruckenden Ort selbst mal anzuschauen. Vor allem in der riesigen Bibliothek würde ich nur zu gerne mal ausgiebig stöbern. Hach, ich liebe einfach dieses außergewöhnliche Hotel, das so etwas herrlich Rätselhaftes, zugleich aber auch sehr Heimeliges versprüht.
Diesen wundersamen Ort darf unsere Protagonistin Elizabeth inzwischen ihr Zuhause nennen, worum sie ihr bester Freund Freddy sehr beneidet. Auf Freddy müssen wir aber zum Glück auch dieses Mal nicht lange verzichten. Zusammen mit seinen Eltern wird er die Osterferien in Winterhaus verbringen, sodass wir Leser*innen auch in Band 3 gemeinsam mit ihm und Elizabeth lauter knifflige Botschaften knacken, mysteriöse Fährten nachgehen und in den Genuss von unterhaltsamen Wortspielereien kommen werden. Liebhaber von Codes und Sprachspielen werden wieder ganz auf ihre Kosten kommen, so viel kann ich euch ja schon mal verraten.
Elizabeth und Freddy habe ich schon längst unheimlich liebgewonnen. Allerdings muss ich sagen, dass ich Elizabeths Verhalten dieses Mal nicht immer gänzlich nachvollziehen konnte. Vor allem bei einer bestimmten Szene, die mit dem riesigen Puzzle in der Hotellobby zusammenhängt, habe ich irgendwie nicht verstanden, warum Elizabeth so gehandelt hat. Wirklich gestört hat es mich aber nicht beim Lesen. Ich mochte unsere Buchheldin, aus deren Sicht wir erneut alles in der dritten Person erfahren, erneut super gerne und haben sie für ihre Scharfsinnigkeit abermals richtig bewundert.
Vor Freddys Schlauheit kann man wahrlich ebenfalls nur den Hut ziehen. Dass er auch in diesem Band wieder mit von der Partie ist, hat mich wahnsinnig gefreut. Ihn habe ich ganz besonders fest in mein Herz geschlossen.
Die weiteren Charaktere haben mir ebenfalls wieder ausgesprochen gut gefallen. Wir dürfen auf lauter bekannte Gesichter treffen wie Elizabeths liebenswerter Großvater Norbridge, der der Besitzer von Winterhaus ist; die sympathische Bibliothekarin Leona oder die zwei schrulligen Herren Mr. Rajput und Mr. Wellington, die beide nach wie vor mit Feuereifer dabei sind, das Riesenpuzzle im Hotelfoyer fertigzustellen.
Natürlich werden auch ein paar neue Figuren eingeführt. So dürfen wir zum Beispiel die Eltern von Freddy kennenlernen.
Ich fand wirklich alle Charaktere wieder absolut bezaubernd. Manche sind so hinreißend verschroben, manche so schön suspekt und allesamt tragen dazu bei, dass man unvergessliche Lesestunden mit dem Buch verbringt.
Bezüglich der Handlung möchte ich eigentlich gar nicht mehr so viel sagen. Stellt euch einfach mal darauf ein, dass ihr das Buch gar nicht mehr aus der Hand legen möchtet, da ihr so gefesselt von den Geschehnissen seid und endlich Antworten auf die ganzen Unklarheiten haben möchtet. Ich persönlich habe die Story insgesamt zwar als recht ruhig empfunden, aber durchweg am mitfiebern war ich dennoch und auch ins Schmunzeln bin ich des öfteren geraten.
Das herzerwärmende Ende konnte mich ebenfalls völlig überzeugen. Es schließt die Trilogie fabelhaft ab und hat mich das Buch glücklich und wehmütig zugleich zuklappen lassen. Ich werde Winterhaus und die Charaktere zweifellos sehr vermissen.
Eine letzte Sache noch, ehe ich zu meinem Fazit komme: Die faszinierenden schwarz-weiß Illustrationen von Chloe Bristol dürfen selbstverständlich nicht unerwähnt bleiben. Mir haben ihre zahlreichen Bilder abermals unglaublich gut gefallen. Ich stehe einfach total auf den besonderen Zeichenstil von Chloe Bristol. Er hat etwas leicht Skurriles, finde ich, und irgendwie auch etwas Unheimliches und passt vortrefflich zu den Winterhaus-Geschichten. Ob die Vignetten an den Kapitelanfängen, die kleineren Bilder, die ganz – oder die doppelseitigen Illustrationen – ich bin von allen Zeichnungen einfach nur mal wieder hellauf begeistert.
Fazit: Ein ganz famoser Abschlussband voller Rätsel, Wortspiele und Magie! Ben Guterson hat mit „Die Magie von Winterhaus“ ein wundervolles Finale aufs Papier gebracht, welches Jung und Alt einen zeitlos schönen Lesegenuss beschert und die Winterhaus-Trilogie würdig abschließt. Mir hat das Buch ein zauberhaftes Leseerlebnis beschert. Auch Band 3 erzählt eine tolle Geschichte über Freundschaft, Familie und Geheimnisse und lässt an keiner Stelle Langeweile aufkommen. Ein traumhaftes Setting, eine winterliche und gemütliche Atmosphäre, charmante Figuren, viele Buchstabenspiele, zahlreiche stimmungsvolle Illustrationen – klingt gut? Nun, das ist es auch! Die Winterhaus-Trilogie ist wahrlich etwas ganz Besonderes – ich werde sie auf jeden Fall in sehr guter Erinnerung behalten. Der dritte Band erhält von mir volle 5 von 5 Sternen!
Die äußere Gestaltung von Band 3 konnte mich also schon mal vollkommen verzaubern. Ich war nun sehr gespannt, ob mich auch das, was zwischen den Buchdeckeln schlummert, genauso begeistern wird.
Ostern steht vor der Tür und obwohl es mittlerweile Frühling ist, herrschen draußen immer noch frostige Temperaturen. Während es noch kräftig schneit, fiebert Elizabeth dem Wiedersehen mit ihrem besten Freund Freddy ungeduldig entgegen. Er wird zusammen mit seinen Eltern die Osterferien im Hotel Winterhaus verbringen – Elizabeths neues Zuhause. Ein Zuhause voller Geheimnisse und Magie. Bereits vor Freddys Ankunft ereignen sich seltsame Dinge und auch während seines Aufenthalts hören die unerklärlichen Vorkommnisse nicht auf. Die Erde bebt immer wieder, einige Hotelgäste verhalten sich äußerst merkwürdig...Elizabeth wird das Gefühl einfach nicht los, dass an Ostern etwas passieren wird. Irgendetwas, das mit Gracella zusammenhängt. Aber kann das wirklich sein? Gracella ist doch schließlich verschwunden. Oder vielleicht doch nicht?
Elizabeth glaubt immer mehr daran, dass Gracella versucht zurückzukehren wird. Dies muss unbedingt verhindert werden! Gemeinsam mit Freddy beginnt sie zu ermitteln...
Da es bei mir nun schon wieder über ein Jahr ist, dass ich den zweiten Band gelesen habe, hatte ich zu Beginn ganz leichte Startschwierigkeiten, muss ich gestehen. Bei der Winterhaus-Serie sollte man auf jeden Fall die chronologische Reihenfolge der Bände einhalten, da sie sehr aufeinander aufbauen! Um dem Geschehen im dritten Teil mühelos folgen zu können, braucht man meiner Ansicht nach das Vorwissen aus den beiden Vorgängern.
Meine Einstiegsprobleme waren glücklicherweise im Nu überwunden. Nachdem ich einmal komplett in die besondere Winterhaus-Welt zurückgefunden hatte, gab es kein Halten mehr für mich und ich wollte nur noch eines tun: Lesen! Da ich das Buch dann auch tatsächlich kaum mehr aus der Hand gelegt habe, habe ich es richtiggehend verschlungen und für meinen Geschmack leider viel zu schnell wieder beendet. Echt schade, dass dies der letzte Band ist. Ich würde so, so gerne noch weitere Abenteuer im einmaligen Hotel Winterhaus erleben. Ich finde diese Reihe einfach nur großartig. Auch das Finale konnte mich Anfang bis Ende verzücken und begeistern.
Ben Guterson ist mit „Die Magie von Winterhaus“ in meinen Augen ein rundum gelungener Abschlussband geglückt, der wie die zwei vorherigen Bände eine packende Geschichte voller Mysterien und Magie erzählt und von Beginn an eine fantastische Stimmung verströmt. Die Atmosphäre in dieser Trilogie zählt ganz klar zu meinen Highlights. Sie ist so wunderbar magisch und rätselhaft und so schön winterlich. Ihr könnt mir glauben: Die Einbände und auch der Titel versprechen definitiv nicht zu viel – die Winterhaus-Trilogie ist die perfekte Lektüre für die kalte Jahreszeit! Der dritte Teil spielt zwar an Ostern, aber da nach wie vor Schnee liegt und es eisig kalt draußen ist, beschert uns auch dieser Band ein richtig tolles Winter-Feeling.
Von der Kulisse könnte ich euch mal wieder endlos etwas vorschwärmen. Die Schauplätze im herrschaftlichen Hotel Winterhaus werden erneut grandios beschrieben, sag ich euch. Ich wäre beim Lesen abermals nur zu gerne in das Buch hineingekrochen, um mir diesen beeindruckenden Ort selbst mal anzuschauen. Vor allem in der riesigen Bibliothek würde ich nur zu gerne mal ausgiebig stöbern. Hach, ich liebe einfach dieses außergewöhnliche Hotel, das so etwas herrlich Rätselhaftes, zugleich aber auch sehr Heimeliges versprüht.
Diesen wundersamen Ort darf unsere Protagonistin Elizabeth inzwischen ihr Zuhause nennen, worum sie ihr bester Freund Freddy sehr beneidet. Auf Freddy müssen wir aber zum Glück auch dieses Mal nicht lange verzichten. Zusammen mit seinen Eltern wird er die Osterferien in Winterhaus verbringen, sodass wir Leser*innen auch in Band 3 gemeinsam mit ihm und Elizabeth lauter knifflige Botschaften knacken, mysteriöse Fährten nachgehen und in den Genuss von unterhaltsamen Wortspielereien kommen werden. Liebhaber von Codes und Sprachspielen werden wieder ganz auf ihre Kosten kommen, so viel kann ich euch ja schon mal verraten.
Elizabeth und Freddy habe ich schon längst unheimlich liebgewonnen. Allerdings muss ich sagen, dass ich Elizabeths Verhalten dieses Mal nicht immer gänzlich nachvollziehen konnte. Vor allem bei einer bestimmten Szene, die mit dem riesigen Puzzle in der Hotellobby zusammenhängt, habe ich irgendwie nicht verstanden, warum Elizabeth so gehandelt hat. Wirklich gestört hat es mich aber nicht beim Lesen. Ich mochte unsere Buchheldin, aus deren Sicht wir erneut alles in der dritten Person erfahren, erneut super gerne und haben sie für ihre Scharfsinnigkeit abermals richtig bewundert.
Vor Freddys Schlauheit kann man wahrlich ebenfalls nur den Hut ziehen. Dass er auch in diesem Band wieder mit von der Partie ist, hat mich wahnsinnig gefreut. Ihn habe ich ganz besonders fest in mein Herz geschlossen.
Die weiteren Charaktere haben mir ebenfalls wieder ausgesprochen gut gefallen. Wir dürfen auf lauter bekannte Gesichter treffen wie Elizabeths liebenswerter Großvater Norbridge, der der Besitzer von Winterhaus ist; die sympathische Bibliothekarin Leona oder die zwei schrulligen Herren Mr. Rajput und Mr. Wellington, die beide nach wie vor mit Feuereifer dabei sind, das Riesenpuzzle im Hotelfoyer fertigzustellen.
Natürlich werden auch ein paar neue Figuren eingeführt. So dürfen wir zum Beispiel die Eltern von Freddy kennenlernen.
Ich fand wirklich alle Charaktere wieder absolut bezaubernd. Manche sind so hinreißend verschroben, manche so schön suspekt und allesamt tragen dazu bei, dass man unvergessliche Lesestunden mit dem Buch verbringt.
Bezüglich der Handlung möchte ich eigentlich gar nicht mehr so viel sagen. Stellt euch einfach mal darauf ein, dass ihr das Buch gar nicht mehr aus der Hand legen möchtet, da ihr so gefesselt von den Geschehnissen seid und endlich Antworten auf die ganzen Unklarheiten haben möchtet. Ich persönlich habe die Story insgesamt zwar als recht ruhig empfunden, aber durchweg am mitfiebern war ich dennoch und auch ins Schmunzeln bin ich des öfteren geraten.
Das herzerwärmende Ende konnte mich ebenfalls völlig überzeugen. Es schließt die Trilogie fabelhaft ab und hat mich das Buch glücklich und wehmütig zugleich zuklappen lassen. Ich werde Winterhaus und die Charaktere zweifellos sehr vermissen.
Eine letzte Sache noch, ehe ich zu meinem Fazit komme: Die faszinierenden schwarz-weiß Illustrationen von Chloe Bristol dürfen selbstverständlich nicht unerwähnt bleiben. Mir haben ihre zahlreichen Bilder abermals unglaublich gut gefallen. Ich stehe einfach total auf den besonderen Zeichenstil von Chloe Bristol. Er hat etwas leicht Skurriles, finde ich, und irgendwie auch etwas Unheimliches und passt vortrefflich zu den Winterhaus-Geschichten. Ob die Vignetten an den Kapitelanfängen, die kleineren Bilder, die ganz – oder die doppelseitigen Illustrationen – ich bin von allen Zeichnungen einfach nur mal wieder hellauf begeistert.
Fazit: Ein ganz famoser Abschlussband voller Rätsel, Wortspiele und Magie! Ben Guterson hat mit „Die Magie von Winterhaus“ ein wundervolles Finale aufs Papier gebracht, welches Jung und Alt einen zeitlos schönen Lesegenuss beschert und die Winterhaus-Trilogie würdig abschließt. Mir hat das Buch ein zauberhaftes Leseerlebnis beschert. Auch Band 3 erzählt eine tolle Geschichte über Freundschaft, Familie und Geheimnisse und lässt an keiner Stelle Langeweile aufkommen. Ein traumhaftes Setting, eine winterliche und gemütliche Atmosphäre, charmante Figuren, viele Buchstabenspiele, zahlreiche stimmungsvolle Illustrationen – klingt gut? Nun, das ist es auch! Die Winterhaus-Trilogie ist wahrlich etwas ganz Besonderes – ich werde sie auf jeden Fall in sehr guter Erinnerung behalten. Der dritte Band erhält von mir volle 5 von 5 Sternen!
December 14, 2020
Erst bei diesem 3. Teil dieser Jugendbuchreihe sind mir die vielen Parallelen zu "Harry Potter" aufgefallen. Waisenkind wächst bei Tante & Onkel auf, die nicht wirklich nett sind. Als es 11 ist, kommt es an einen neuen Ort und trifft dort auf einen alten weisen Mann, der eine Art (Groß-)Vaterfigur wird sowie auf einen Jungen der zum besten Freund wird. Außerdem entdeckt das Waisenkind, dass es Zauberkräfte besitzt, und rettet damit sein neues Zuhause (mehrfach) vor einer Person, die mithilfe von magischen Gegenständen zu neuem Leben erweckt werden will. Dabei wird das Waisenkind ebenfalls immer wieder dazu verführt, auf die dunkle Seite zu wechseln.
Erneut war ich begeistert von der Geschichte um Elizabeth und Freddy, die wieder jede Menge Buchstabenrätsel parat hat (ein Lob an den Übersetzer, der/die sich jeweils passende deutsche Entsprechungen ausdenken musste) und einfach eine schöne spannende Story erzählt, die trotz all ihrer Magie immer noch nachvollziehbar und irgendwie auch glaubwürdig bleibt, auch wenn sich das vielleicht wie ein Widerspruch anhört.
Schade, dass es von dieser Reihe nun keine Fortsetzung geben wird, doch es wurde ein sehr guter Abschluss für unsere Helden gefunden!
Erneut war ich begeistert von der Geschichte um Elizabeth und Freddy, die wieder jede Menge Buchstabenrätsel parat hat (ein Lob an den Übersetzer, der/die sich jeweils passende deutsche Entsprechungen ausdenken musste) und einfach eine schöne spannende Story erzählt, die trotz all ihrer Magie immer noch nachvollziehbar und irgendwie auch glaubwürdig bleibt, auch wenn sich das vielleicht wie ein Widerspruch anhört.
Schade, dass es von dieser Reihe nun keine Fortsetzung geben wird, doch es wurde ein sehr guter Abschluss für unsere Helden gefunden!
December 14, 2021
Well, at least with this one he broke the pattern of the other two a bit.
It is entertaining but the truth is that the series could have saved a book. It seemed unnecessarily long to me, the whole situation.
The family union and the affections outside the blood ties that the author reveals among his characters is remarkable; I value that very much.
It is entertaining but the truth is that the series could have saved a book. It seemed unnecessarily long to me, the whole situation.
The family union and the affections outside the blood ties that the author reveals among his characters is remarkable; I value that very much.
October 4, 2022
es ist so so großartig, ich würde so gerne noch weiterlesen !! 🫂💛🕯️✨ bisher meine liebste trilogie, würd ich behaupten – die atmosphäre, die liebenswerten charaktere, die besondere aufmachung der kapitelnamen, die vielen rätsel und die wunderschönen illustrationen durchs ganze buch! 💛💫📖✨
November 17, 2023
see, i love this series and i love this book. but, this one didn’t have the same level of mystery as the other ones. there was one chapter with the real action, the clues were solved easily and when they were solved it wasn’t a big deal in the book, the clues weren’t as good, and overall just felt very long for the amount of mystery we got, although i still enjoyed it immensely. it seemed really long, but when i read it it didn’t feel like it dragged on.
January 15, 2021
Elizabeth Somers is looking forward to Easter at Winterhouse when the guests, including her friend Freddy, return and the hotel is full of activity. Elizabeth becomes fearful after hearing some odd noises by the old mine where Gracella's body is buried. When terrifying rumblings start shaking the hotel and Elizabeth hears noises coming from Freddy's workshop, she suspects Gracella may be trying to return. With guests and residents behaving oddly and her friendship with Freddy changing, Elizabeth is feeling frustrated and somewhat alone. Elizabeth must figure out who is trying to help Gracella.
I could not put this book down. At first I had trouble getting into it because the writing is so pedestrian and I was annoyed with Elizabeth for going off on her own and not telling an adult. If I saw a red cloth hanging from a tree while skiing, I'd worry someone was lost and tell someone at the hotel not assume something sinister was happening. I wasn't crazy about some of the young teen angst and I was able to figure out some of what was going on but the story was still fun. I especially like the word play and puzzles. That's what makes this story stand out and not just a Harry Potter wannabe. I had fun trying to figure out anagrams and solve the mysteries. I both like and dislike the world this story is set in. It seems European but with American culture and close to Asia. The people are multicultural and diverse which is great but my adult brain keeps trying to place the setting in a specific location and can't do it which drives me crazy.
Elizabeth is a normal girl who happens to have some kind of special powers. I wish this was more defined and given a name beyond "the feeling." She needs a teacher who can help guide her the right way. I suspect with Gracella, her teen angst was magnified by being a part of this illustrious family and then her husband preyed on that feeling to instruct her in the dark arts. Elizabeth could go down that route but I think she won't because she knows the dangers and she loves Winterhouse. She's just unsure of herself still because she's young and the whole idea of heir to the hotel is new. Freddy is really smart and I think very sure of himself because He's growing up and recognizes some of Elizabeth's faults. He's a good enough friend to call her on misuse of her power even though she doesn't like it. Elana is Elizabeth's friend from the previous book. I don't remember her at all but now she's an elderly woman thanks to Gracella using Elana's youth to regain her own powers. Elizabeth feels sorry for Elana and remains a friend throughout. I wonder though, is Elana trying to bring Gracella back in hopes of getting her youth back?
Norbridge is kind and listens better to Elizabeth now. He's trying to protect his guests from feeling scared but in lying to them, he isn't doing any favors. His magic tricks are still fun and enchanting. I think he means well. Lenora the librarian is a bit crusty and rude at times. Mr. Wellington and Mr. Rajput are no longer fun. They're obsessed beyond all reason with finishing that puzzle. I can't imagine even attempting a puzzle that large let alone trying to finish it in such a short amount of time. They're putting too much stress on themselves and taking it out on everyone. Mr. Rajput is especially cranky and mean.
We also officially meet Lena Falls and her mother Kiona. Lena is seen creeping about near Gracella's old room. It seems she's trying to communicate something with someone who will understand, but what? I suspect Gracella is manipulating Lena. Her story is very tragic. We also meet Freddy's parents who seem nice enough but over protective. I think they're trying to make up for lost time and worry about Freddy's safety.
Newcomers to the story include Hyrum Crowley, Elizabeth's student teacher. He seems way too interested in the gothic tales of Damien Crowley and the history of the Winterhouse hotel and Winters family. He's seen suspiciously lurking around places he probably shouldn't be. I suspect he is up to no good. Professor Egil T. Fowls with his eyeroll inducing name is also acting suspicious. I don't trust either of them. Sir Reginald Eton-Paley is the most suspicious of them all. He's a book collector who wants to get his hands on a book that to the outside world doesn't exist. Elizabeth knows of one copy- in Gracella's room! She feels uneasy around him. I suspect a lot of his stories are exaggerated or untrue. He may not even be who he says he is. Sir Reginald is up to something and I think he wants to steal that book.
This series is OK for kids who aren't ready for Harry Potter yet or for girls who want a female protagonist. Kids who like wordplay and puzzles would also enjoy this. This series isn't really for adults too though. I probably won't recommend it to my nieces and nephews at this point but maybe when they're a little older they might like it.
I could not put this book down. At first I had trouble getting into it because the writing is so pedestrian and I was annoyed with Elizabeth for going off on her own and not telling an adult. If I saw a red cloth hanging from a tree while skiing, I'd worry someone was lost and tell someone at the hotel not assume something sinister was happening. I wasn't crazy about some of the young teen angst and I was able to figure out some of what was going on but the story was still fun. I especially like the word play and puzzles. That's what makes this story stand out and not just a Harry Potter wannabe. I had fun trying to figure out anagrams and solve the mysteries. I both like and dislike the world this story is set in. It seems European but with American culture and close to Asia. The people are multicultural and diverse which is great but my adult brain keeps trying to place the setting in a specific location and can't do it which drives me crazy.
Elizabeth is a normal girl who happens to have some kind of special powers. I wish this was more defined and given a name beyond "the feeling." She needs a teacher who can help guide her the right way. I suspect with Gracella, her teen angst was magnified by being a part of this illustrious family and then her husband preyed on that feeling to instruct her in the dark arts. Elizabeth could go down that route but I think she won't because she knows the dangers and she loves Winterhouse. She's just unsure of herself still because she's young and the whole idea of heir to the hotel is new. Freddy is really smart and I think very sure of himself because He's growing up and recognizes some of Elizabeth's faults. He's a good enough friend to call her on misuse of her power even though she doesn't like it. Elana is Elizabeth's friend from the previous book. I don't remember her at all but now she's an elderly woman thanks to Gracella using Elana's youth to regain her own powers. Elizabeth feels sorry for Elana and remains a friend throughout. I wonder though, is Elana trying to bring Gracella back in hopes of getting her youth back?
Norbridge is kind and listens better to Elizabeth now. He's trying to protect his guests from feeling scared but in lying to them, he isn't doing any favors. His magic tricks are still fun and enchanting. I think he means well. Lenora the librarian is a bit crusty and rude at times. Mr. Wellington and Mr. Rajput are no longer fun. They're obsessed beyond all reason with finishing that puzzle. I can't imagine even attempting a puzzle that large let alone trying to finish it in such a short amount of time. They're putting too much stress on themselves and taking it out on everyone. Mr. Rajput is especially cranky and mean.
We also officially meet Lena Falls and her mother Kiona. Lena is seen creeping about near Gracella's old room. It seems she's trying to communicate something with someone who will understand, but what? I suspect Gracella is manipulating Lena. Her story is very tragic. We also meet Freddy's parents who seem nice enough but over protective. I think they're trying to make up for lost time and worry about Freddy's safety.
Newcomers to the story include Hyrum Crowley, Elizabeth's student teacher. He seems way too interested in the gothic tales of Damien Crowley and the history of the Winterhouse hotel and Winters family. He's seen suspiciously lurking around places he probably shouldn't be. I suspect he is up to no good. Professor Egil T. Fowls with his eyeroll inducing name is also acting suspicious. I don't trust either of them. Sir Reginald Eton-Paley is the most suspicious of them all. He's a book collector who wants to get his hands on a book that to the outside world doesn't exist. Elizabeth knows of one copy- in Gracella's room! She feels uneasy around him. I suspect a lot of his stories are exaggerated or untrue. He may not even be who he says he is. Sir Reginald is up to something and I think he wants to steal that book.
This series is OK for kids who aren't ready for Harry Potter yet or for girls who want a female protagonist. Kids who like wordplay and puzzles would also enjoy this. This series isn't really for adults too though. I probably won't recommend it to my nieces and nephews at this point but maybe when they're a little older they might like it.
August 23, 2023
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