Readers have praised Jennifer McMahon's The Winter People for its chilling atmosphere, compelling plot, and well-developed characters, making it a gripping read for fans of supernatural thrillers. However, some found the dual timelines and interwoven narratives confusing at times. Despite this, the novel successfully intertwines suspense with emotional depth.

Fans of eerie, atmospheric thrillers with a historical twist will relish The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon. Readers who enjoy Stephen King's The Shining or Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects for their blend of suspense, supernatural elements, and richly layered storytelling will find this novel captivating.

The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon intertwines past and present through the stories of Sara Harrison Shea in 1908 and modern-day characters as they uncover mysteries in a Vermont farmhouse. The narrative delves into themes of family, legend, and the supernatural, offering a chilling exploration of grief and the unexplained.

- The Winter People is set in the small town of West Hall, Vermont, a fictional place crafted by the author, but inspired by her own experiences and fascination with the history and eerie atmosphere of New England locales.
- Jennifer McMahon, the author of The Winter People, is known for weaving supernatural elements with mystery and suspense, a signature style that captures readers' imaginations by blending reality with the paranormal.
- The book draws inspiration from Gothic novels and New England folktales, incorporating themes of death, grief, and the afterlife, creating a chilling narrative that pays homage to classic horror traditions while offering a modern twist.

Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Melancholic / Contemplative

**Sara Harrison Shea**  
A 31-year-old woman living in West Hall, Vermont in 1908, known for her resourcefulness and unique ability to foresee events, including her marriage to Martin Shea. Her life is deeply affected by personal tragedies and her connection to the supernatural.

**Martin Shea**  
Sara's husband, who grew up overshadowed by his brother and finds himself similarly overshadowed by Sara's strong presence. He is a practical man who struggles to manage the challenges posed by their farm and personal life.

**Gertie Shea**  
The young daughter of Sara and Martin, characterized by her close bond with her mother and mysterious ability to interact with supernatural elements. Her life and fate have a profound impact on her family.

**Auntie**  
The half-Quebecois, half-Indigenous caregiver of Sara, known for her mystical abilities and controversial influence on the family. Her complex role blends guidance and antagonism within the community.

**Katherine**  
A modern-day artist grappling with profound grief after losing her husband and son. She becomes entangled in the mysterious history of West Hall, driven by her creative exploration of loss and the supernatural.

**Ruthie Washburne**  
A determined 19-year-old living in West Hall, characterized by her ambition and potential. Her journey involves uncovering family secrets and understanding the significance of her roots.

**Alice Washburne**  
Ruthie's adoptive mother, known for her strength and self-reliance, who manages to maintain the homestead while fulfilling a significant protective role in her family. Her lifestyle reflects her deep dedication to her children.

Jennifer McMahon

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Novel

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Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Winter People and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Winter People Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Winter People Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1908” - Part 2: “January 2: Present Day”

Prologue-Part 2

The Winter People Prologue-Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “1908” - Part 4: “January 3: Present Day”

Parts 3-4

The Winter People Parts 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “1908” - Part 6: “January 4: Present Day”

Parts 5-6

The Winter People Parts 5-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “1908” - Part 10: “1908”

Parts 7-10

The Winter People Parts 7-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 11: “January 4: Present Day “ - Part 17: “1939”

Parts 11-17

The Winter People Parts 11-17 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Winter People Character Analysis

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Themes

The Winter People Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Winter People Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Winter People Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Winter People Essay Topics

The Winter People

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read The Winter People?

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