The Winter People Overview
Title: The Winter People
Author: Rebekah L. Purdy
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Summary:
Salome Montgomery is terrified of winter—the cold, snow, and ice, but especially the frozen pond she fell through as a child. Haunted by mysterious voices and images of beings that saved her, she remembers their warning to stay away from the pond. For eleven years, she has avoided the winter woods and the darkness nearby. When her grandparents’ failing health takes them to Arizona, Salome inherits the responsibility of maintaining their estate, including certain “special gifts” left at the back of the property.
As Salome tries to avoid the winter world, she finds herself drawn into it again, especially when she meets the enigmatic Nevin trespassing on her family’s property. Nevin is burdened with dark secrets about the forest creatures, and his presence turns Salome’s life upside down. She must decide between her longtime crush, Colton, who might help cure her fear of winter, and Nevin, who, along with his bodyguard Gareth, protects her from the growing darkness. A dangerous evil is lurking, ready to strike at any moment and possibly end her life.
Review of The Winter People
If you’re into paranormal romance with a touch of fairy tale magic, you’re in for a treat with The Winter People. The book captivates you right from the beginning with its mysterious vibe, urging you to unravel the secrets hidden beyond a snowy gate.
The story starts dramatically with six-year-old Salome falling through ice, lured by a sinister voice that wants her dead. Unknown beings come to her rescue, and eleven years later, she’s left with a paralyzing fear of winter. Her life takes a turn when her grandparents leave for Arizona, leaving her to manage their house, and the mysteries start unfolding.
Salome soon meets Nevin, the only person who seems to understand her fears. She also goes on a date with her childhood crush, Colton. But things get even more complicated with Gareth’s arrival, as he’s tasked with protecting her from emerging dangers. As she nears her 18th birthday, threats against her become more intense, raising questions about who or what is after her—and why.
As the story unravels its mythology, a love quadrangle emerges, but it’s engaging rather than confusing. Initially, it’s hard to decide whether to root for Colton, Gareth, or Nevin, but that’s part of the fun. If you love romance and adventure, the twists and turns will keep you hooked until the end. Plus, you won’t need to wait for a sequel to see how it all wraps up.
Apart from the romance, the characters, especially Salome, are well-drawn. While some might see her as a damsel in distress, she’s refreshingly human with significant anxiety issues. In an era of “strong” female leads, it’s different to see a character who is visibly afraid and struggles with anxiety. Salome’s journey is about facing and overcoming her fears, making her story relatable and compelling.
While the book is an enjoyable read, it does have a few minor flaws. The occasional curse words feel out of place in an otherwise clean romance story. Additionally, some side characters could have used more development; there’s one, in particular, whose motivations needed more exploration. Despite these nitpicks, they don’t detract much from the overall experience. If you’re fond of fairy tales or enjoyed Twilight, give The Winter People a try—it won’t disappoint.
Adaptation Idea
This book would make a fantastic two-part TV mini-series, similar to shows like Merlin, Labyrinth, or The 10th Kingdom. The extended format would allow the rich mythology to shine. The CW Network, known for its original mini-series, could do a great job with this genre.
Overall Rating
Overall: “You had me at hello.”
Romance: “In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”
Where to Buy
You can purchase The Winter People on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
