A review by phantomgecko
The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon

dark mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

A novel labeled "horror" that is actually horrifying. Kind of a slow burn horror in a lot of ways. When a story is told nonchronologically, there needs to be delicate unveiling of plot points to build tension well. This book does that well. What happens in the past gently (hauntingly) informs what happens in the future and vice versa.

The spookiness of the story is not a new idea, v Pet Sematary. But the inclusion of
Spoilera non-supernatural antagonist
is really delightful. Like, chef kiss. Also a fan of the dual but intertwined mysteries: how did Gertie die? And where's Alice?

SpoilerAlso, although a supernatural evil is heavily implied, I felt like it wasn't the only option. Martin going crazy was a strong possibility in my mind. Definitely one of the most tense bits for me was centered on the barn. I legit thought Martin had accidentally killed and skinned his daughter in a delusional state. Chilling.

Overall, I'd say the ending was frustrating, though. Ruthie deciding not to go to college? Bleh. Destroying the pages? Yeah! A certain someone going ahead and sharing all those pages anyway? C'mon, dude.


Frustrating ending, but it doesn't ruin the book for me. Delicious resolution before the frustrating bits.
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