Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Winter Haven by Athol Dickson



If you've ever read an Athol Dickson novel, you'll know that his stories are intense and intriguing. I was privileged to read an advance copy of Winter Haven, and it's no exception.


About Winter Haven:

Thirteen years ago, Vera Gamble's brother, Siggy, left their home never to be seen again - until his body washes ashore on the tiny island town of Winter Haven, Maine. As his only surviving kin, Vera travels north to claim the body - and finds herself tangled in the impossible: Her brother has not aged a day since last she saw him.

Determined to uncover what happened in those lost years, Vera soon discovers there are other secrets haunting the island: tales of lost colonies, a witch bent on vengeance, and a forest where no creature dares to live. Hemmed in by unearthly fog and distrusted by the locals, Vera's only ally is the owner of a grand but dilapidated mansion poised on a rocky cliff. Will her desperate questions find answers, or will Winter Haven claim yet one more dark legend?


An unusual premise, dramatic plot twists, compelling characters, and a climax that leaves you wondering how you didn't see it coming - like puzzle pieces deftly scattered each plays a part in making Winter Haven into a masterpiece. This is probably the first suspense novel I've read in a long time that actually gripped me to the point that I found myself holding my breath. If you love a good suspense novel, you will definitely want to check it out.

Winter Haven is published by Bethany House Publishers and releases in April.

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