Winterwood is a fast read that is written in more of a lyrical style. It took me about a hundred pages to really connect with the characters and stories. Once I did I enjoyed the story overall. It was a short and interesting read, but not a major hit with me. I had 99% of the ending figured out by 190 pages and was appalled at myself for not having it figured out earlier. It was pretty obvious.

There was one major issue I had with the book. One of the main settings is a residential camp for troubled boys. I have a daughter with mental health issues that has frequented longer term facilities and I can guarantee that none of them would be run like this camp. It was unrealistic that there would be that much access to alcohol and so little supervision if the camp was really a rehabilitative camp. It was actually insulting to the individuals that work tirelessly at such facilities. The story could have been rewritten to be more realistic, it would have been harder but it would have made for a better story overall.

I also absolutely love the cover, both the original cover and the Owlcrate edition that I own.