Winter's Shadow by M.J. Hearle

Title: Winter's Shadow

Author: M.J. Hearle

Genre: Young Adult/Paranormal Romance

Publisher:  Pan Macmillan1

Publication Date: 1st June 2011

ISBN: 9780330404471

Stand alone or series: Series.
Pages: 424 pages

Book Received from: Pan Macmillan (Proof Copy/ARC)

First Lines: Madeleine Bonnaire fled beneath the flickering street lamps of Rue Descartes.

Synopsis:
Blake Duchamp... 

He's all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim's Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.  

But Blake isn't all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.

The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself.

My Thoughts:
With so many books in the YA genre these days, you would think that Authors would have exhausted every paranormal option out (Don't get me wrong I love what is out there!).  But thankfully no!!  M.J. Hearle has brought a fantastic and original story to the mix.

Winter's Shadow is told mainly from Winter's point of view but we also get glimpses of Blake's side, as well as flashbacks to the 1800's about a woman named Madeleine.  I really liked how M.J. Hearle had mixed things up abit with the three point of views.  It helps the reader understand the motivations of each character so the reader isn't left too much in the dark.  Yet, it's still obvious that it is Winter's story

Another thing I enjoyed about reading this were the relatively short chapters.  I found myself staying put longer than usual just to sneak in one more chapter, even though there were a million things to do!

Winter's Shadow was a compelling and suspense filled book that kept me hooked from beginning to finish!  M.J. Hearle has brought a fresh perspective to the YA paranormal book genre and I look forward to reading more of his work!

Fave Line:  There were a few favourite lines but I think this one was the best! 'Wielding her furry guardian like a weapon, Winter passed into the front hallway.'  Classic stuff!!