Scan barcode
seshathawk's review against another edition
3.0
This book has been on my to-read list for ages and I finally got it from the library last month in an attempt to knock some easy reads off of the list.
After spending a lot of the year reading non-fiction (way more than I've ever read before) and delving into more genres (science fiction, romance, urban fantasy) than usual, I went to this book as something quick and easy, a little break for my brain at the end of the year.
YA or middle grade fantasy used to be my favorite genre, and this was a nice way to revisit my love for it. Simple and straightforward, no wasted words, and we understand what everyone is thinking and feeling without lingering on it for pages and pages. It was short and enjoyable.
Going past the technical, probably what I enjoyed most about the book was the main character, Fer. I liked that ultimately, despite people trying to manipulate her and her confusion about what was going on, she succeeded by trusting herself and listening to her instincts. I feel like that's a good lesson to impart on girls; we often say the opposite, to think it out and be more logical.
A good book to end the year with. I look forward to the sequels.
After spending a lot of the year reading non-fiction (way more than I've ever read before) and delving into more genres (science fiction, romance, urban fantasy) than usual, I went to this book as something quick and easy, a little break for my brain at the end of the year.
YA or middle grade fantasy used to be my favorite genre, and this was a nice way to revisit my love for it. Simple and straightforward, no wasted words, and we understand what everyone is thinking and feeling without lingering on it for pages and pages. It was short and enjoyable.
Going past the technical, probably what I enjoyed most about the book was the main character, Fer. I liked that ultimately, despite people trying to manipulate her and her confusion about what was going on, she succeeded by trusting herself and listening to her instincts. I feel like that's a good lesson to impart on girls; we often say the opposite, to think it out and be more logical.
A good book to end the year with. I look forward to the sequels.
mackle13's review against another edition
3.0
When I saw the blurb I can't say I was overly impressed, but I do like me some faeires and the author wrote another series, The Magic Thief, which I enjoyed, so I figured I'd give it a shot. In the end, it's a cute story with a strong role model for girls, but there's nothing particularly stand out about it.
I do like the way that Prineas takes faerie lore and both manages to stick with it generally, but also change it enough to make it her own - like the Mór being an analog to the Morrigan, what with being a warrior and the crows and all.
I think my biggest complaint, though, is that the characters are all sort of one note, even Fer, our heroine. The blurb describes her as spunky, and she is definitely willful, but all of her emotions and thoughts just felt too surface. Not in the sense that we're told she's spirited but never see it, but more in the sense that any fears or doubts or anything she has are thought and then dismissed. They never go beyond fleeting ideas, and so she never seemed fully real or developed.
Same goes for Rook and Gran and, well, everyone, really. They have their primary character trait, and that's pretty much it.
Also, I felt things just came a bit too easy for Fer. Yes, there's some reason for that in the story, but that doesn't change the fact that it's less exciting reading about an adventure and a triumph when things never really seem like they could fail. And the ending was pretty anti-climactic, I felt.
Lastly, I was a bit bothered and disappointed by the continuing tradition of equating beauty with goodness. Fer, more than once, thinks something along the lines of "she's so beautiful, how could she be bad?" I wouldn't mind if it was used subversively, but it wasn't. For a story which seems targetted for girls, it's a bit sad to see so much focus on that old trope.
All that said - it was a quick read, and it was an entertaining story. Part of it was because I liked some of the world stuff. I do think that it's possible that this could grow into a better series, and I'm not opposed to continuing the series. I didn't actively dislike the book - I'm just a bit disappointed because I think it could've been better.
Sort of 2.5.
I do like the way that Prineas takes faerie lore and both manages to stick with it generally, but also change it enough to make it her own - like the Mór being an analog to the Morrigan, what with being a warrior and the crows and all.
I think my biggest complaint, though, is that the characters are all sort of one note, even Fer, our heroine. The blurb describes her as spunky, and she is definitely willful, but all of her emotions and thoughts just felt too surface. Not in the sense that we're told she's spirited but never see it, but more in the sense that any fears or doubts or anything she has are thought and then dismissed. They never go beyond fleeting ideas, and so she never seemed fully real or developed.
Same goes for Rook and Gran and, well, everyone, really. They have their primary character trait, and that's pretty much it.
Also, I felt things just came a bit too easy for Fer. Yes, there's some reason for that in the story, but that doesn't change the fact that it's less exciting reading about an adventure and a triumph when things never really seem like they could fail. And the ending was pretty anti-climactic, I felt.
Spoiler
While I kind of like the idea of the climax really being about her accepting who she is, I would've liked at least some kind of real final battle, too. I mean, it just read like that kind of story - until it wasn't.Lastly, I was a bit bothered and disappointed by the continuing tradition of equating beauty with goodness. Fer, more than once, thinks something along the lines of "she's so beautiful, how could she be bad?" I wouldn't mind if it was used subversively, but it wasn't. For a story which seems targetted for girls, it's a bit sad to see so much focus on that old trope.
All that said - it was a quick read, and it was an entertaining story. Part of it was because I liked some of the world stuff. I do think that it's possible that this could grow into a better series, and I'm not opposed to continuing the series. I didn't actively dislike the book - I'm just a bit disappointed because I think it could've been better.
Sort of 2.5.
fairytale42's review against another edition
5.0
She does it again - makes a world that feels safe, comfortable, and nostalgic, but also gives us some danger, a bit of suspense and mystery, and just - ah. There are just some books that are like stepping into a hot bath - this is one of them. I feel all homey and warm when I read this book. You've got two worlds, with magic and healing, and tricksters and huntresses and it's so good. Truly, this is a wonderful book to read on a rainy day, with a mug of something hot to drink. <3
ghost_rider's review against another edition
5.0
This book was pure magic, the kind that sweeps you away to an entirely different world. The more Fer explored the strange and beautiful world of the fae, the more I wished I could live there. The descriptions of the magic, the land, and its many unique inhabitants were so enchanting. I liked that Fer’s main strength came from her kindness and compassion, not just sheer bravery and force. Winterling may have been written for kids but it was just as wonderful to me as an adult, and by now I’m already on to the next one in the series.
kailiasage's review against another edition
4.0
I’ve been on a middle grade reading kick recently and when I heard about this book, I knew I just had to read it. An middle grade fantasy novel combined with a gorgeous cover makes for a great read, I’ve discovered!
I was sucked into the world that Sarah Parineas creates from the very beginning and I couldn’t stop reading the book until I got to the end. The plot weaves magic and friendship, courage and belief and so much more together to really deliver a good read. There is a lot going on in the world that the author creates without overbearing descriptions and boring dialogue.
Fer was an absolute perfect protagonist for this book! Not only was she fierce and determined, she was a kid too and often times, she didn’t always know what to do and she got scared too. It made her not only admirable but realistic too. The other characters that were a part of this novel were wonderful too. They had their own minds and personalities and had different ways of helping Fer and contributing to the plot.
Overall, Winterling was a perfect fantasy novel full of adventure and excitement, woven with bits of fantasy and folklore elements. It’s a great way to get kids reading and is a quick, fun read.
I was sucked into the world that Sarah Parineas creates from the very beginning and I couldn’t stop reading the book until I got to the end. The plot weaves magic and friendship, courage and belief and so much more together to really deliver a good read. There is a lot going on in the world that the author creates without overbearing descriptions and boring dialogue.
Fer was an absolute perfect protagonist for this book! Not only was she fierce and determined, she was a kid too and often times, she didn’t always know what to do and she got scared too. It made her not only admirable but realistic too. The other characters that were a part of this novel were wonderful too. They had their own minds and personalities and had different ways of helping Fer and contributing to the plot.
Overall, Winterling was a perfect fantasy novel full of adventure and excitement, woven with bits of fantasy and folklore elements. It’s a great way to get kids reading and is a quick, fun read.
aklibrarychick's review against another edition
5.0
Gosh, I feel like I'm always late for the prom. I discover amazing books and I'm so excited about them and I realize, heck, this came out eight years ago. Where was I? Oh yeah, eight years ago I had a toddler and three kids in elementary. I was a little busy.
But I digress - I still want to rave about this book, which was just about a perfect fantasy. It contained enough of the real world to keep it grounded, and enough fantasy to give it wings. The worlds that Prineas creates are complex and lush, and Fer is a very believable and likable heroine. She seems to bring in elements from a number of different folklore and fairy tale traditions and blends it all together into a cohesive world. I love GrandJane and her vast knowledge of herbs, honey, and the spells that make them more effective, and also her grudging knowledge about the other worlds accessible through the Way.
I just finished listening to this audiobook last night, and I am beyond delighted to learn there are two more books. I already downloaded the second audiobook in the trilogy, and am eager to dive back into that world.
But I digress - I still want to rave about this book, which was just about a perfect fantasy. It contained enough of the real world to keep it grounded, and enough fantasy to give it wings. The worlds that Prineas creates are complex and lush, and Fer is a very believable and likable heroine. She seems to bring in elements from a number of different folklore and fairy tale traditions and blends it all together into a cohesive world. I love GrandJane and her vast knowledge of herbs, honey, and the spells that make them more effective, and also her grudging knowledge about the other worlds accessible through the Way.
I just finished listening to this audiobook last night, and I am beyond delighted to learn there are two more books. I already downloaded the second audiobook in the trilogy, and am eager to dive back into that world.
aba1802's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
hopeful
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
ashleyjapan's review against another edition
3.0
This story was pretty good. It had its own take on the world of the Fae/Fey and the connections between it and ours. The supporting cast was great, and the pacing was pretty good. Fer seems to come into her own just on time. I'm not raving about this book, but it was a solid good read and I do plan on continuing the series with no reservations about it.
michelle_abelha's review against another edition
5.0
Full of nature-based magic with an emphasis on the interconnectedness of all life and our shared responsibility. Loved it!
elevetha's review against another edition
3.0
I lost my review previously because it didn't save properly so this is a re do.
Underdeveloped characters and unanswered questions abounded but as there will be a sequel I am hoping that my questions will be answered in the next book.
Fer felt like she wanted to be a strong awesome character but never quite accomplished that goal. I never felt that I got to know her as my main character. She needed more personality. I liked Rook\Robin but I needed backstory. PLEASE, I BEG OF THEE, PRINEAS. GIVE ME BACKSTORY.
And Phouka!! Him too. Give him backstory. I just know that those two tricksy boys have awesome stories to be told.
I was truly gleeful when I realized that though Fer is a changeling girl from another world, [b:Winterling|11594289|Winterling (Winterling, #1)|Sarah Prineas|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1377967120s/11594289.jpg|14278755] was not just a re-hash of Titania\Oberon's illegitimate\legitimatedaughter child. Yay! Thank you, Sarah!
What was up with the magic stick of green spring that showed up near the end of the book? Odd.
I am awaiting my sequel of [b:The Summerkin|9755855|Summerkin (Winterling, #2)|Sarah Prineas|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1350583061s/9755855.jpg|14645141] of 2013.
Underdeveloped characters and unanswered questions abounded but as there will be a sequel I am hoping that my questions will be answered in the next book.
Fer felt like she wanted to be a strong awesome character but never quite accomplished that goal. I never felt that I got to know her as my main character. She needed more personality. I liked Rook\Robin but I needed backstory. PLEASE, I BEG OF THEE, PRINEAS. GIVE ME BACKSTORY.
And Phouka!! Him too. Give him backstory. I just know that those two tricksy boys have awesome stories to be told.
I was truly gleeful when I realized that though Fer is a changeling girl from another world, [b:Winterling|11594289|Winterling (Winterling, #1)|Sarah Prineas|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1377967120s/11594289.jpg|14278755] was not just a re-hash of Titania\Oberon's illegitimate\legitimate
What was up with the magic stick of green spring that showed up near the end of the book? Odd.
I am awaiting my sequel of [b:The Summerkin|9755855|Summerkin (Winterling, #2)|Sarah Prineas|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1350583061s/9755855.jpg|14645141] of 2013.