Winterwood by Shea Ernshaw Book Review

Winterwood by Shea Ernshaw possesses the most lyrical writing I have read in modern literature. Her writing reminds me very much of the writing of Charlotte and Emily Bronte. 

Ernshaw gives such a distinct voice to inanimate objects. The Wood was my favourite character. The Wood breathed with life and haunted me throughout the story. I kept wanting to enter and be a part of it but at the same time held a healthy respect for it. I could have read a book just about the wood, it was that captivating. 

I enjoyed all the witchy vibes throughout this story. I loved each of the stories of the various Walkers (witches) and the different moons they were born under. I have always been fascinated with moons so that was a personal fascination. The unique spells at the end of each Walker biography were funny, witty, and out there. 

The main characters were good in this, but the villains were where it was at! While reading I was afraid of the bullies and what they might do to the various characters they interacted with. The humans were scarier than any witch, forest, or dark power in this story. 

There were two things that were not up to par with the rest of the story, for me. I did not sense a strong relationship between the two main characters. I felt their relationship had great respect for one another, but I saw it more as a brother/sister or best buddies type relationship. Lastly, I found the story rather predictable. I know many were shocked by parts of this book, but I never felt that way. 

Overall, Winterwood is a stunning, lyrical piece of work perfect for those who love forests and witch stories. This book is perfect for readers who enjoyed The Hazel Wood and Serpent and Dove.