Winterkill by Kate A. Boorman

Winterkill
by Kate A. Boorman
Official Site | Goodreads | Twitter






Format: Kindle/ ARC
Published: Sept. 9th 2014 by Abrams, Amulet Books
Genre: YA

Amazon | Kindle | Book Depository

"Emmeline knows she’s not supposed to explore the woods outside her settlement. The enemy that wiped out half her people lurks there, attacking at night and keeping them isolated in an unfamiliar land with merciless winters. Living with the shame of her grandmother’s insubordination, Emmeline has learned to keep her head down and her quick tongue silent.

When the settlement leader asks for her hand in marriage, it’s an opportunity for Emmeline to wash the family slate clean—even if she has eyes for another. But before she’s forced into an impossible decision, her dreams urge her into the woods, where she uncovers a path she can’t help but follow. The trail leads to a secret that someone in the village will kill to protect. Her grandmother followed the same path and paid the price. If Emmeline isn’t careful, she will be next." -Goodreads

Review:

“I am Honesty, I am Bravery. I am Discovery.” (18)

An enclosed community is awaiting La Prise, and with 16 year-old Emmeline coming of age, a revelation awaits as well.

The book begins in an air of mystery; why are they watching the wall? What are they protecting, and or, protecting against? Who are The Lost People?

These are all questions we seeks answers for as we delve deeper into the social and governing structure of a village fearful of The Malmaci, a mythical beast that treks the surrounding woods. Emmeline is wayward, and she knows how that panned out for her Grandmother before her, yet she can’t help but to give into her curiosities. These curiosities grow into determination as The Lost People call to her.

“‘What is more important here, Emmeline, is that fearful people are easily led.’” (265)

I’m not going to lie, this book was weird, but in an eerie almost horror-like way, as the secrets and sanity of The Council (the settlement leaders) are revealed. I absolutely LOVE how the author personified Emmaline and her characterization and voice is my favorite aspect of the book. As truths are uncovered, and Emmaline fights for her rights, her family and even her life, she becomes braver and must quickly decide who to trust and who not to trust. The ending chapters are of the greatest suspense, as La Prise (Winter) is right on the community’s heels and their governing body discovers and wants to rid of “The Lost People.” 

“I dreamt time and again of a hawk circling its prey. Emmeline, you were the prey.” (262)

The middle of the book really dragged on, for me, it just seemed like people were going through day-to-day routines and every little detail about it was being described. It got to the point where I was going through it in one sitting just to be finally finished with the book, I’m just glad it picked up at the end. I would’ve liked a bit more action, or adventure, and a little more clarity (a lot of things left me confused, especially with the jargon used.) 

If you’re into reading a book with a creepy dystopian-like vibe, then by all means pick up this book before La Prise gets here!

“We survive together, or we perish.” (31)

-----
Galley provided by Netgalley via Amulet Books

 

*Quotes are from uncorrected advanced galleys and may change before going to press. Please refer to the final printed book for official quotes.