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The Winter Before
Isaac Stone has stood out ever since he was a boy.With a past as mysterious as the web of horrific scars marring his body, he’s no stranger to the attention of the locals in Woodlake, Montana. But he’s grown now, and a peaceful life in the mountains, far from small-town gossip, shouldn’t be impossible to find. Should it?Olivia Parker has big dreams that will take her far away from the small town she grew up in. But when she inherits a rundown cottage near secluded Briars Creek, she can’t resist the thrill of a new adventure and creating a home of her own. A home that’s right across the creek from Isaac.In place of the boy Olivia once knew, is a rugged man with emotional walls as imposing as the mountains around them. But Olivia is determined to unravel the secrets and in the seclusion of the mountainside, their connection sparks.And although Olivia is a bright spot in a lonely existence, Isaac is afraid his past demons are enough to cast them both in shadow.Winter Before is a stand-alone N/A contemporary romance novel.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2021
130 people are currently reading
777 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
March 29, 2021
This very well could be my favorite book so far this year!! It was exciting, emotional and just a bit heartbreaking. Poor Isaac has has such a hard life starting with a fire that altered his life forever. The aftermath of that tragedy leaves him essential a monster in the eyes of most of the people that see him, all but a select few. One of those is a little girl named Olivia. Their story is difficult yet beautiful. I loved watching them grow and develop not only as individuals but also has a couple. The ending brought tears to my eyes.
December 6, 2021
Heart squeezing
Absolutely loved this story so a 5 star for me but it does have some inconsistencies and odd moments here and there. Fell in love with Issac
Absolutely loved this story so a 5 star for me but it does have some inconsistencies and odd moments here and there. Fell in love with Issac
April 18, 2022
3.75
April 9, 2021
I absolutely loved reading this book. Once I started reading I could not put it down. This author definitely knows how to draw you in and keep your attention until the very end. And what an amazing ending it was. My heart was in my throat whilst I waited with my breath held to read how the book ended. It was truly an amazing read and one I will not forget. Fantastic book and highly recommended.
May 9, 2021
Maryse's book blog giveaway. Won book from author.
The Winter Before by Karen Crompton a great book.
A new to me author that I hope to read future books by.
A powerful new adult storyline that kept me intriqued from beginning to end.
Great character development perfect for the storyline. Emotional and heartbreaking. A reclusive hero and heroine with her own issues.
The Winter Before by Karen Crompton a great book.
A new to me author that I hope to read future books by.
A powerful new adult storyline that kept me intriqued from beginning to end.
Great character development perfect for the storyline. Emotional and heartbreaking. A reclusive hero and heroine with her own issues.
April 16, 2021
This was sweet. Isaac was badly burned as a child. Olivia inherits a house next door to him. They become friends. I do think she pushes him too much and I wasn’t a fan of the kid’s epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2021
2.5 Stars.
This wasn’t a terrible book, but I really couldn’t get into it for several reasons. The characters were very flat in my opinion, the book had very little steam (zero sexual tension and non-explicit sex scenes), and the dialogue was incredibly corny. For example:
“Before he could say anything else, she added, “And you can keep your damn money. Mrs. Ackerman wanted me to have that box. Not you. In fact, you’re the last person she would want to have it, so stick your money where the sun don’t shine, and don’t bother asking me again!”
… stick it where the sun don’t shine? 😐 cringe.
“You’re late,” he muttered.
No. I’m not.”
“Yes. You are.”
She shook her head. “Nuh-uh.”
… are we 12?
“I got us coffee.” Olivia held up the two cups she was holding, as if pointing out the obvious would soften his rough exterior. “If that’s alright with you, Mr. Grumpy Pants.”
Again… 12?
“Seriously, dude, you need to reassess your outlook on life. That crap was pretty. Admit it!”
…. That crap was pretty?
It’s always an uncomfortable read for me when the author tries too hard to be cute or witty or funny, which I think was the case here. I just kept picturing the author being either 15 or 75.
Lastly, it was written in third person POV. This style is so antiquated, and I didn’t realize how much I don’t like it until now because most of the romances I’ve read haven’t used it. It was so hard to connect with the characters.
I will give the author kudos for making an “ugly” hero, though. This is something that most authors are too afraid to do. It was refreshing to read a book that had ‘real’ characters with real names.
This wasn’t a terrible book, but I really couldn’t get into it for several reasons. The characters were very flat in my opinion, the book had very little steam (zero sexual tension and non-explicit sex scenes), and the dialogue was incredibly corny. For example:
“Before he could say anything else, she added, “And you can keep your damn money. Mrs. Ackerman wanted me to have that box. Not you. In fact, you’re the last person she would want to have it, so stick your money where the sun don’t shine, and don’t bother asking me again!”
… stick it where the sun don’t shine? 😐 cringe.
“You’re late,” he muttered.
No. I’m not.”
“Yes. You are.”
She shook her head. “Nuh-uh.”
… are we 12?
“I got us coffee.” Olivia held up the two cups she was holding, as if pointing out the obvious would soften his rough exterior. “If that’s alright with you, Mr. Grumpy Pants.”
Again… 12?
“Seriously, dude, you need to reassess your outlook on life. That crap was pretty. Admit it!”
…. That crap was pretty?
It’s always an uncomfortable read for me when the author tries too hard to be cute or witty or funny, which I think was the case here. I just kept picturing the author being either 15 or 75.
Lastly, it was written in third person POV. This style is so antiquated, and I didn’t realize how much I don’t like it until now because most of the romances I’ve read haven’t used it. It was so hard to connect with the characters.
I will give the author kudos for making an “ugly” hero, though. This is something that most authors are too afraid to do. It was refreshing to read a book that had ‘real’ characters with real names.
April 16, 2022
Karen has a new book coming out, join her Facebook group Krazy for Karen Crompton for early looks at all reveals!!
NEW FAVOURITE BOOK ALERT!
This book was incredible! A beautiful slow burn romance focusing on a broken hero, who is scarred both emotionally and physically from his childhood.
Issac was such an inspiring character and I fell in love with him the moment he was introduced, Issac is a brooding recluse, who’s shut himself away from the people of his small town.
Olivia was his sunshine, although she too had her own demons she was fighting. Olivia never gave up on Issac and although this story contained sadness and dramatics, it really was a true love story of hope and happiness.
This is a slow burn romance, with forced proximity due to Olivia moving into a house that was left to her in someone’s will. This book contained a mystery that meant I couldn’t put it down and I read it in one sitting, it was so exciting and intriguing.
Everyone who follows me on bookstagram (all you read is love) knows how much I love small town romance, especially when it features a recluse, so as soon as I opened the book I knew I was in for a treat and this book really did not disappoint.
This is my first book by Karen and it most definitely won’t be my last! Thank you for creating such beautiful character, your writing was filled with talent and your imagination is awe inspiring.
5* romance that deserves a planetarium of stars and I will definitely recommend to everyone I come across!
Tropes:
Grumpy/Sunshine
Recluse
Scarred Hero
Small Town
Forced Proximity
NEW FAVOURITE BOOK ALERT!
This book was incredible! A beautiful slow burn romance focusing on a broken hero, who is scarred both emotionally and physically from his childhood.
Issac was such an inspiring character and I fell in love with him the moment he was introduced, Issac is a brooding recluse, who’s shut himself away from the people of his small town.
Olivia was his sunshine, although she too had her own demons she was fighting. Olivia never gave up on Issac and although this story contained sadness and dramatics, it really was a true love story of hope and happiness.
This is a slow burn romance, with forced proximity due to Olivia moving into a house that was left to her in someone’s will. This book contained a mystery that meant I couldn’t put it down and I read it in one sitting, it was so exciting and intriguing.
Everyone who follows me on bookstagram (all you read is love) knows how much I love small town romance, especially when it features a recluse, so as soon as I opened the book I knew I was in for a treat and this book really did not disappoint.
This is my first book by Karen and it most definitely won’t be my last! Thank you for creating such beautiful character, your writing was filled with talent and your imagination is awe inspiring.
5* romance that deserves a planetarium of stars and I will definitely recommend to everyone I come across!
Tropes:
Grumpy/Sunshine
Recluse
Scarred Hero
Small Town
Forced Proximity
June 22, 2021
3.5 STARS
BLURB: Olivia was very close to her teacher, Mrs. Eleanor Ackerman. Mrs. Ackerman dies, leaving her run down cottage to Olivia. Olivia moves into the cottage to fix it up and meets her neighbor, Isaac. Isaac was badly burned in a fire that killed his mother when he was young and stays out of sight a majority of the time due to the burn scars on his face and body. Olivia requests help from Isaac to fix the cottage and they grow closer. Olivia sees past the burn scars and learns about Isaac as a person.
I was in a major book funk before starting this. I needed something easy and sweet after the dark stories I had been reading. This was both easy and sweet. However, as the story progressed I liked it less and less. It was cheesy, yes, and a little over the top at the end. I was leaning towards 4 stars until the last 5% of the book. I didn't like the way the big revelation occurred and I think it could have been better, overall.
BLURB: Olivia was very close to her teacher, Mrs. Eleanor Ackerman. Mrs. Ackerman dies, leaving her run down cottage to Olivia. Olivia moves into the cottage to fix it up and meets her neighbor, Isaac. Isaac was badly burned in a fire that killed his mother when he was young and stays out of sight a majority of the time due to the burn scars on his face and body. Olivia requests help from Isaac to fix the cottage and they grow closer. Olivia sees past the burn scars and learns about Isaac as a person.
I was in a major book funk before starting this. I needed something easy and sweet after the dark stories I had been reading. This was both easy and sweet. However, as the story progressed I liked it less and less. It was cheesy, yes, and a little over the top at the end. I was leaning towards 4 stars until the last 5% of the book. I didn't like the way the big revelation occurred and I think it could have been better, overall.
June 8, 2021
Oliva Parker has always drawn to Issac and even though because of his scars and past people haven't made it easy for him. But Oliva doesn't have it any better with a family that judges her and makes her question herself. However, Oliva and Issac are strong and good people, and when her beloved Teacher dies and leaves her a house with Issac as her neighbor things finally lookup for these two. And that's when the story really picks up and makes each page turn more intense and interesting.
November 27, 2024
DNF after 58%
This was just not for me. The characters were fine, the romance was sweet but boring, the POV jumping was extremely annoying and overall I just think that I enjoy my romances with a bit of drama and angst and this was just... not that. It felt flat. I loved "Making Faces" by Amy Harmon which had a similar setting much more than this and I think I might re-read that book again instead of struggling through the second half of "The Winter Before".
This was just not for me. The characters were fine, the romance was sweet but boring, the POV jumping was extremely annoying and overall I just think that I enjoy my romances with a bit of drama and angst and this was just... not that. It felt flat. I loved "Making Faces" by Amy Harmon which had a similar setting much more than this and I think I might re-read that book again instead of struggling through the second half of "The Winter Before".
March 24, 2021
With a prologue that is so attention grabbing, this is one story that will leave you dying to know how it all ends!!
Issac Stone...the boy who grew to be a man from tragic beginnings. His scars, both emotional and physical run deep This hero is one who longs to be unexceptional but, you'll discover is anything but...
Olivia Parker...sweet, sassy, and strong. Issac has always been a mystery she's wanted to solve since childhood. Now that their neighbors, she comes barreling into his secluded life bringing light to his dark and lonely existence. Will her friendship and love be enough to finally tear down Isaac's walls forever...
I found myself utterly enthralled by this story where a reclusive hero and a spunky heroine find love while trying to solve a bit of a mystery as a dubious villain lurks in the shadows. Issac and Olivia relationship is a slow burn with meaningful and life changing moments that are just so beautiful as their story unfolds...
This book was a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed. So good I read it within hours not wanting the story to end. The epilogue will leave you in blissful happy tears as Olivia and Isaac's beautiful story comes full circle. I loved it! Get this gem on your TBR NOW! You'll be glad you did!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
Issac Stone...the boy who grew to be a man from tragic beginnings. His scars, both emotional and physical run deep This hero is one who longs to be unexceptional but, you'll discover is anything but...
Olivia Parker...sweet, sassy, and strong. Issac has always been a mystery she's wanted to solve since childhood. Now that their neighbors, she comes barreling into his secluded life bringing light to his dark and lonely existence. Will her friendship and love be enough to finally tear down Isaac's walls forever...
I found myself utterly enthralled by this story where a reclusive hero and a spunky heroine find love while trying to solve a bit of a mystery as a dubious villain lurks in the shadows. Issac and Olivia relationship is a slow burn with meaningful and life changing moments that are just so beautiful as their story unfolds...
This book was a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed. So good I read it within hours not wanting the story to end. The epilogue will leave you in blissful happy tears as Olivia and Isaac's beautiful story comes full circle. I loved it! Get this gem on your TBR NOW! You'll be glad you did!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
May 15, 2021
I did enjoy this book although at times it was a bit overly descriptive and wordy. The characters were likeable and the story entertaining and drew you in. I feel there were some unresolved questions though like did the villain get his comeuppance? How Isaac changed after he recovers etc. I would read this author again.
April 16, 2021
5* Epic Love Stars
The story of Olivia and Isaac was emotional and heartfelt. It is a slow burn romance that will having you rooting for them to be together despite the hardships that present themselves. It will consume you from the first page read until the last word written.
I highly recommend this beautiful love story that will tug at your heartstrings.
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I will be reading more of her wonderful storytelling.
The story of Olivia and Isaac was emotional and heartfelt. It is a slow burn romance that will having you rooting for them to be together despite the hardships that present themselves. It will consume you from the first page read until the last word written.
I highly recommend this beautiful love story that will tug at your heartstrings.
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I will be reading more of her wonderful storytelling.
June 22, 2023
I loved this book so much. I wanted to keep Isaac and give him all the hugs that I could. I love the broken hero trope, and this one does it so well. It’s not spicy, but that didn’t seem to matter because the plot was just that good. ❤️❤️❤️
March 9, 2022
This book really reminded me of Archer's Voice (one of my fave stories) and I enjoyed it very much. It was thrilling short and quick-paced, I was in a somewhat block lately and didn't have much passion for reading but I can definitely say I've now found it again thank heavens🥰
My only problem here was I didn't like much how the story portrayed the aspect of Isaac's mental health. And I had a difficulty with how it was written (povs which didn't exactly exist apart from the epilogue/ it was written in thied person but describing every character and that was a bit confusing) and I didn't like much the epilogue.... I didn't care much about what happened 25 years later but just till 5 years max..🥲
My only problem here was I didn't like much how the story portrayed the aspect of Isaac's mental health. And I had a difficulty with how it was written (povs which didn't exactly exist apart from the epilogue/ it was written in thied person but describing every character and that was a bit confusing) and I didn't like much the epilogue.... I didn't care much about what happened 25 years later but just till 5 years max..🥲
April 24, 2022
A la señora le faltó papel porque vaya final hija
3.6
3.6
March 16, 2021
Olivia and Isaac just about tore my heart apart with their angst and feelings of inadequacy. They have a combined past that neither has shared with the other, but they’ve also been marching surely toward each other since they were little kids. If only Isaac is able to let go of his insecurities enough to let Olivia and her love break through his walls. If only he’s able to accept that she could and does love him. If only....
This was a good story. It had the slow burn between two uncertain souls that wanted to burn like a wildfire, but were afraid to. And the death of a beloved former teacher is what starts them on the path to togetherness and forever. They’ve got unlikely allies, a tormentor willing to do the absolute worst, and judgments to cast aside before they can find that forever though. And when they finally do admit their feelings, is it too late? I wanted to cry when Isaac cruelly broke Olivia’s heart, but she was so much stronger than he gave her credit for, in so many ways. And that epilogue made the whole story worth the mystery and the wondering and the worry that I went through while Olivia and Isaac found their way to their happy.
This was a good story. It had the slow burn between two uncertain souls that wanted to burn like a wildfire, but were afraid to. And the death of a beloved former teacher is what starts them on the path to togetherness and forever. They’ve got unlikely allies, a tormentor willing to do the absolute worst, and judgments to cast aside before they can find that forever though. And when they finally do admit their feelings, is it too late? I wanted to cry when Isaac cruelly broke Olivia’s heart, but she was so much stronger than he gave her credit for, in so many ways. And that epilogue made the whole story worth the mystery and the wondering and the worry that I went through while Olivia and Isaac found their way to their happy.
April 18, 2021
I enjoyed Isaac and Olivia’s story, both their individual stories as well as the relationship they shared. It was a little slow moving at times, but then it got to a point I wanted to get to the end to see what would happen. The epilogue was a little heart stopping, but I’m so glad it eventually ended the way it did!
March 2, 2022
This book was ok. I enjoyed parts of it, and I really loved how Olivia pulled Isaac out of his shell...and also there is a mystery that is solved at the end that I didn't see coming.
Other than that, though, the book was slow going for me. Grumpy/sunshine and recluse are two of my fave tropes, so I expect more and also had heard good things from other readers.
The book was also clearly written by an author in England or Australia, as she used words like "carpark", "torch" and "timber" instead of American terms. I knew what she meant, but it kind of pulled me out of the story since the book took place in Montana.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book by any means, but if someone wanted a grumpy/sunshine or recluse recommendation, I have others I would recommend before this one.
Other than that, though, the book was slow going for me. Grumpy/sunshine and recluse are two of my fave tropes, so I expect more and also had heard good things from other readers.
The book was also clearly written by an author in England or Australia, as she used words like "carpark", "torch" and "timber" instead of American terms. I knew what she meant, but it kind of pulled me out of the story since the book took place in Montana.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book by any means, but if someone wanted a grumpy/sunshine or recluse recommendation, I have others I would recommend before this one.
August 29, 2021
It was my first time reading from this author and I’m so glad I found her! The Winter Before is based in a small town following Olivia and Isaac who have known each other since they were little however had never had any kind of friendship due to Isaac hiding away from the world from some past trauma. Their paths collided again and Olivia’s sass, tenacity and loving heart started to open a new unexpected chapter for Isaac’s life. The story addresses trauma, bullying, prejudice, family secrets, facing greatest fears, strength and above all unconditional love. It was a really beautiful story.
October 30, 2021
This was a beautiful story. A broken, scarred man, a girl haunted by a situation from her past, and the circumstances that bring them back into each other’s lives. It was equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming. Totally gave me beauty and the beast vibes. And that epilogue put my heart through the wringer. 😅 I really enjoyed this story.
“Sometimes the world around us makes too much noise for us to hear properly.”
“Sometimes the world around us makes too much noise for us to hear properly.”
March 30, 2025
Awesome tearjerker with secrets!
Great read, easy pace of story. Grabs your curiosity and draws you in to know more of each character. The secret keeps the mystery but the love has you in tears. Excellent romance and definitely for anyone who enjoy love stories.
Great read, easy pace of story. Grabs your curiosity and draws you in to know more of each character. The secret keeps the mystery but the love has you in tears. Excellent romance and definitely for anyone who enjoy love stories.
November 15, 2021
THE WINTER BEFORE is a standalone contemporary romance that will break your heart, than mend it whole again. I didn't want to put it down till I finished the last page.
Isaac Stone is a tragic little boy who has grown into adulthood only to retreat more & more into himself. He was a recluse living a quiet & peaceful life in the mountains of Woodlake, Montana. His life was about to take a drastic change, hopefully for the better. His only neighbor was Mrs. Ackerman who also had once been his teacher, and had been one of the only friends he had in Woodlake. Her passing had left him alone, but the woman had planned just what she would do with her passing. She left her home to Miss Olivia Louise Parker. The town was in a bit of a shock, but no one was more surprised than Olivia herself.
Olivia could not believe that she owned a home of her own. Her parents didn't like her living by herself in such a reclusive spot, but she was thrilled. She also knew her nearest neighbor was Isaac Stone. Olivia had always been fascinated by Isaac from the time the small boy had arrived in Woodlake to live with his Grandpa, after the passing of his mother. She went seeking his help her first day in her new house. He wasn't very talkative, but he did fix her power. The powers that be must have planned for these two because they found each others company more than either would have thought. In their own little world they found happiness. But in the outside world was when they ran into trouble. Olivia was a beautiful, nice & caring person. Mrs. Ackerman had somehow known that these two people where meant for each other. There were plenty of obstacles, difficulties & troubles, but nothing difficult is ever easy. I recommend this book!
Isaac Stone is a tragic little boy who has grown into adulthood only to retreat more & more into himself. He was a recluse living a quiet & peaceful life in the mountains of Woodlake, Montana. His life was about to take a drastic change, hopefully for the better. His only neighbor was Mrs. Ackerman who also had once been his teacher, and had been one of the only friends he had in Woodlake. Her passing had left him alone, but the woman had planned just what she would do with her passing. She left her home to Miss Olivia Louise Parker. The town was in a bit of a shock, but no one was more surprised than Olivia herself.
Olivia could not believe that she owned a home of her own. Her parents didn't like her living by herself in such a reclusive spot, but she was thrilled. She also knew her nearest neighbor was Isaac Stone. Olivia had always been fascinated by Isaac from the time the small boy had arrived in Woodlake to live with his Grandpa, after the passing of his mother. She went seeking his help her first day in her new house. He wasn't very talkative, but he did fix her power. The powers that be must have planned for these two because they found each others company more than either would have thought. In their own little world they found happiness. But in the outside world was when they ran into trouble. Olivia was a beautiful, nice & caring person. Mrs. Ackerman had somehow known that these two people where meant for each other. There were plenty of obstacles, difficulties & troubles, but nothing difficult is ever easy. I recommend this book!
January 1, 2022
This story is about finding love and beauty in the unexpected. This story is filled with tragedy, happiness, and fears. The couple in this story had to navigate some deep-rooted issues in each other to find and give in to love. This book is full of triggers, but it is a divine story. I also loved that in the epilogue, I finally understood the book's title.
Isaac stone, there is quite a history to this man or boy as he once was. He has had a tragic life if the rumors are to be believed. Olivia Parker remembers much of the past surrounding this newcomer to town. Olivia still wonders about the mystery that is the recluse, Issac.
The folks in Woodlake, Montana, are pretty unique; some are outspoken, and some are more bashful but definitely have a variety of characters. Olivia gets a memory as she attends yet another town funeral. She seems to draw the attention of a local bad boy and the sheriff's son Kyle. You'll never guess who gets all of the late Mrs. Ackermans things in a twist of fate.
We finally get Isaac's perspective. Isaac likes to run. It is his escape from his miserable, anxiety-ridden existence. He also builds stuff at the local hardware store. She has an interesting first encounter with Isaac. Isaac and her start to bond over a tenuous friendship. Their friendship turns into a lot more slowly developing as they spend time in their own little bubble. This book is full of surprises, from truth bombs to some steamy scenes to heartbreak. I thought the end when I jumped twenty-five years in the future was the explanation of losing Isaac. Still, the author tricks you with the wording so read carefully.
Isaac stone, there is quite a history to this man or boy as he once was. He has had a tragic life if the rumors are to be believed. Olivia Parker remembers much of the past surrounding this newcomer to town. Olivia still wonders about the mystery that is the recluse, Issac.
The folks in Woodlake, Montana, are pretty unique; some are outspoken, and some are more bashful but definitely have a variety of characters. Olivia gets a memory as she attends yet another town funeral. She seems to draw the attention of a local bad boy and the sheriff's son Kyle. You'll never guess who gets all of the late Mrs. Ackermans things in a twist of fate.
We finally get Isaac's perspective. Isaac likes to run. It is his escape from his miserable, anxiety-ridden existence. He also builds stuff at the local hardware store. She has an interesting first encounter with Isaac. Isaac and her start to bond over a tenuous friendship. Their friendship turns into a lot more slowly developing as they spend time in their own little bubble. This book is full of surprises, from truth bombs to some steamy scenes to heartbreak. I thought the end when I jumped twenty-five years in the future was the explanation of losing Isaac. Still, the author tricks you with the wording so read carefully.
March 29, 2021
The Winter Before is such a unique storyline that it takes you by surprise. A story that wraps itself tight around you and won't let go. This isn't just a love story, this is an adventure, a story full of self discovery, inspiration and unconditional love. It is about trust and allowing people to finally see the person that you are, scars and all. Isaac and Olivia's story touched my heart in way that I don't think a story has before. It captured my heart, mind and soul and took me on a journey packed full of emotions. Their story is poignant, intense, heart wrenching and soul-stirring. There is passion, determination, doubt, suspense, secrets, confrontation and then there is a love so powerful it will leave you breathless. This book is an experience, one that everyone needs to discover. It will leave a mark on your soul and will be a memory captured forever in your mind. The Winter Before is a story that I just didn't want to end and leaves me with a heavy heart to say goodbye to two characters that stole my heart completely.
April 24, 2021
Excellent read! I'm going to be honest, I wasn't sure I was going to like this book when I began reading. It just seemed so much waxing poetic and details that seemed to slow down the story in the beginning. But what it was doing was its job, telling a story, setting the scenery for you so well, really putting a reader in the middle of this world of the story. It was the story of Olivia and Isaac, from the beginning when a little troubled boy fell in love with a golden haired girl. He grew into a troubled man who needed the right person to lead him out of the darkness and love him unconditionally. Many secrets will come to light from clues left behind in a mysterious locked box from an old woman who died and left everything to Olivia. It really was an emotional read for me. In the end, I seriously have to give this book five stars. Just that ending blowing my mind the way it did, was five stars. I was truly crying in the end and ready to chuck my Kindle across the room, I was so shocked. Five stars, madam! Truly this book was beautifully written. I ended up truly loving this book.
April 2, 2021
Loved. Loved. And loved! I happened upon The Winter Before quite by accident and read a sample. It got me hooked straight away - initially by the original writing, followed quickly by the characters, who are both immensely likable and believable. The storyline itself surprised me by it's richness and originality, the pace was pleasingly consistent and the writing vibrant - full of creative descriptions and original metaphors which left me smiling throughout the read. I curled up and binge-read The Winter Before over two thoroughly enjoyable evenings, and was sad to see it end. Sweet escapism at it's best. Well done Karen Crompton!
May 27, 2021
This book was written so beautifully.. I mean it pulled on the heartstrings from beginning to end. Isaac has been the town's recluse for as long as he can remember and he was ok with it until Olivia.. Olivia was always the pretty girl but one night changed that for her. She now had to battle the darkness and learn to live her life again. She was the light in the darkness that Isaac needed. The push he needed to find true happiness and live again. These two were magical together and thanks to old woman who knew it to, it happened. I found myself all wrapped up into this beautiful love story, holding my breath and waiting what would happened next. Both of these tortured souls found peace with each other and was able to have love in their hearts. I was not expecting tears but I will say there were times especially at the end when I found them flowing down my face. I devoured this book and I know it will stay with me for awhile. Beautiful book with characters you will fall in love with!!!
July 1, 2022
This is another book that is a 2.5 for me but I rounded it up. I guess I'm in a generous mood.
Olivia has just inherited a house from an old teacher. The property is rundown and only has one neighbour, Isaac. Isaac was badly burned in a house fire that killed his mother when he was a child. Due to the bullying and the staring he gets because of his extensive scarring, he tends to keep to himself. That is until he gets a pretty new neighbour.
The main drawback of this book for me was the lack of chemistry between Isaac and Olivia. Halfway through the book, their interactions were still awkward and stilted. Anytime we were getting somewhere the author would throw something in that knocked them back to square one. It doesn't help that Isaac does unintentionally come across as a jerk sometimes. I mean it makes sense seeing as he's isolated himself for most of his life. But this is a romance and the hero walking away from the heroine whilst she's still talking isn't the kind of thing you want to read.
There were also other little things that killed some enjoyment. Like how Olivia's character wasn't very consistent or all that fleshed out. Or how the third person pov would switch every other paragraph sometimes. But other than that, it was an okay read. It killed some time whilst I was procrastinating from doing some cleaning. I finished the book but did none of the cleaning so I guess the book won.
Olivia has just inherited a house from an old teacher. The property is rundown and only has one neighbour, Isaac. Isaac was badly burned in a house fire that killed his mother when he was a child. Due to the bullying and the staring he gets because of his extensive scarring, he tends to keep to himself. That is until he gets a pretty new neighbour.
The main drawback of this book for me was the lack of chemistry between Isaac and Olivia. Halfway through the book, their interactions were still awkward and stilted. Anytime we were getting somewhere the author would throw something in that knocked them back to square one. It doesn't help that Isaac does unintentionally come across as a jerk sometimes. I mean it makes sense seeing as he's isolated himself for most of his life. But this is a romance and the hero walking away from the heroine whilst she's still talking isn't the kind of thing you want to read.
There were also other little things that killed some enjoyment. Like how Olivia's character wasn't very consistent or all that fleshed out. Or how the third person pov would switch every other paragraph sometimes. But other than that, it was an okay read. It killed some time whilst I was procrastinating from doing some cleaning. I finished the book but did none of the cleaning so I guess the book won.
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