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54 pages 1 hour read

The Winter People

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014

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Book Brief

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Jennifer McMahon

The Winter People

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

West Hall, Vermont • 1908

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon intertwines past and present through the stories of Sara Harrison Shea in 1908 and modern-day characters as they uncover mysteries in a Vermont farmhouse. The narrative delves into themes of family, legend, and the supernatural, offering a chilling exploration of grief and the unexplained.

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Readers have praised Jennifer McMahon's The Winter People for its chilling atmosphere, compelling plot, and well-developed characters, making it a gripping read for fans of supernatural thrillers. However, some found the dual timelines and interwoven narratives confusing at times. Despite this, the novel successfully intertwines suspense with emotional depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Winter People?

Fans of eerie, atmospheric thrillers with a historical twist will relish The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon. Readers who enjoy Stephen King's The Shining or Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects for their blend of suspense, supernatural elements, and richly layered storytelling will find this novel captivating.

Character List

Sara Harrison Shea

A 31-year-old woman living in West Hall, Vermont in 1908, known for her resourcefulness and unique ability to foresee events, including her marriage to Martin Shea. Her life is deeply affected by personal tragedies and her connection to the supernatural.

Sara's husband, who grew up overshadowed by his brother and finds himself similarly overshadowed by Sara's strong presence. He is a practical man who struggles to manage the challenges posed by their farm and personal life.

The young daughter of Sara and Martin, characterized by her close bond with her mother and mysterious ability to interact with supernatural elements. Her life and fate have a profound impact on her family.

The half-Quebecois, half-Indigenous caregiver of Sara, known for her mystical abilities and controversial influence on the family. Her complex role blends guidance and antagonism within the community.

A modern-day artist grappling with profound grief after losing her husband and son. She becomes entangled in the mysterious history of West Hall, driven by her creative exploration of loss and the supernatural.

A determined 19-year-old living in West Hall, characterized by her ambition and potential. Her journey involves uncovering family secrets and understanding the significance of her roots.

Ruthie's adoptive mother, known for her strength and self-reliance, who manages to maintain the homestead while fulfilling a significant protective role in her family. Her lifestyle reflects her deep dedication to her children.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

West Hall, Vermont • 1908

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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