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A Man in Winter
Eric Hoffer Award Finalist
A mesmerizing psychological mystery from an author who brings a refreshing new voice to horror. This is a quick read, but one that keeps the reader thoroughly intrigued and entertained from beginning to end.
—Catherine Cavendish, author of In Darkness, Shadows Breathe and Dark Observation (coming in September 2022)
Arthur, whose life was devastated by the brutal murder of his wife, must come to terms with his diagnosis of dementia. He moves into a new home at a retirement community, and shortly after, has his life turned upside down again when his wife’s ghost visits him and sends him on a quest to find her killer so her spirit can move on. With his family and his doctor concerned that his dementia is advancing, will he be able to solve the murder before his independence is permanently restricted?
A Man in Winter examines the horrors of isolation, dementia, loss, and the ghosts that come back to haunt us.
A mesmerizing psychological mystery from an author who brings a refreshing new voice to horror. This is a quick read, but one that keeps the reader thoroughly intrigued and entertained from beginning to end.
—Catherine Cavendish, author of In Darkness, Shadows Breathe and Dark Observation (coming in September 2022)
Arthur, whose life was devastated by the brutal murder of his wife, must come to terms with his diagnosis of dementia. He moves into a new home at a retirement community, and shortly after, has his life turned upside down again when his wife’s ghost visits him and sends him on a quest to find her killer so her spirit can move on. With his family and his doctor concerned that his dementia is advancing, will he be able to solve the murder before his independence is permanently restricted?
A Man in Winter examines the horrors of isolation, dementia, loss, and the ghosts that come back to haunt us.
118 pages, Paperback
Published July 9, 2022
3 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Katie Marie
46 books12 followersKatie Marie is a horror enthusiast and writer from Norfolk, England.
She has been published in several anthologies and magazines, including The Horrorzines Book of Ghost Stories which won Best Anthology in the 23rd Annual Critters Readers' Poll.
Katie started writing while studying for her Law Degree at Aberystwyth University in the early 2000’s and several years and stories later she received her Masters Degree and published her first novel.
You can connect with Katie on Facebook at facebook.com/katiemariewriter or on Twitter @KatieMarieWrite. You can also visit her website, katiemariewriter.com to sign up for emails about new releases, short stories and blogs gushing about the horror genre.
She has been published in several anthologies and magazines, including The Horrorzines Book of Ghost Stories which won Best Anthology in the 23rd Annual Critters Readers' Poll.
Katie started writing while studying for her Law Degree at Aberystwyth University in the early 2000’s and several years and stories later she received her Masters Degree and published her first novel.
You can connect with Katie on Facebook at facebook.com/katiemariewriter or on Twitter @KatieMarieWrite. You can also visit her website, katiemariewriter.com to sign up for emails about new releases, short stories and blogs gushing about the horror genre.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 16, 2024
REVIEW TO COME😭😭😭!!!!!!!
June 29, 2022
I like this authors writing style, it's straight to the point, smooth and without filler.
This story is told from the perspective of a man with dementia after he loses his wife to a brutal murder, so I was unsure what real and what was not but that made it such page-turner as I was wanting to know the conclusion.
This isn't one of those blood and gore horror novels, this is more psychological.
If you're into that, you'll dig it.
Me? I'm not that big on psychological horror, but I can appreciate decent writing.
I received an advanced readers copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, the book is out on the 12th July.
This story is told from the perspective of a man with dementia after he loses his wife to a brutal murder, so I was unsure what real and what was not but that made it such page-turner as I was wanting to know the conclusion.
This isn't one of those blood and gore horror novels, this is more psychological.
If you're into that, you'll dig it.
Me? I'm not that big on psychological horror, but I can appreciate decent writing.
I received an advanced readers copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, the book is out on the 12th July.
July 11, 2022
What a jewel this book is. It's a murder mystery with heart. I grew to love Arthur, his grumpy ways but also his undying love for his wife Molly. A year following his wife's death, Arthur now suffers with dementia. After moving into a senior community, Arthur is soon visited by the ghost of his wife pleading with him to find her killer. But who would believe an old man who struggles to remember even the simplest of things?
This ended up being a much more tender-hearted and tragic book than just a thriller. It was heartbreaking to see Arthur struggle with his mental health and fear of losing his independence. I also enjoyed the murder mystery aspect of the plot.
This book was a pleasant surprise. I really enjoyed it.
A Man in Winter will be published July 12, 2022.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Brigid's Gate Press for sending me a free copy.
This ended up being a much more tender-hearted and tragic book than just a thriller. It was heartbreaking to see Arthur struggle with his mental health and fear of losing his independence. I also enjoyed the murder mystery aspect of the plot.
This book was a pleasant surprise. I really enjoyed it.
A Man in Winter will be published July 12, 2022.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Brigid's Gate Press for sending me a free copy.
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June 16, 2022Please note, I no longer rate on Goodreads.
Is there such a thing as tenderhearted horror? Well there is now. Katie Marie’s ghost story, A Man in Winter, connected with me on such an emotional level.
In my opinion, the world of fiction needs more stories told from the POV of the elderly, and Katie Marie certainly delivers on that score.
I read this novella in two or three sittings and thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing is smooth; the story-telling sound.
My heart bled for Arthur, and his dead wife, too. A dementia diagnosis can be devastating. It not only changes the life of the sufferer but also those who love them. The thin line between reality and hallucination is a tricky one. Confusion and a sense of unreality adds to the stress of the condition, and then of course, there is the unwillingness of those surrounding them to believe that what they're experiencing is real. Is Arthur really seeing his dead wife, or is it all part of the illusion? Read it and see.
Is there such a thing as tenderhearted horror? Well there is now. Katie Marie’s ghost story, A Man in Winter, connected with me on such an emotional level.
In my opinion, the world of fiction needs more stories told from the POV of the elderly, and Katie Marie certainly delivers on that score.
I read this novella in two or three sittings and thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing is smooth; the story-telling sound.
My heart bled for Arthur, and his dead wife, too. A dementia diagnosis can be devastating. It not only changes the life of the sufferer but also those who love them. The thin line between reality and hallucination is a tricky one. Confusion and a sense of unreality adds to the stress of the condition, and then of course, there is the unwillingness of those surrounding them to believe that what they're experiencing is real. Is Arthur really seeing his dead wife, or is it all part of the illusion? Read it and see.
June 19, 2022
A mesmerizing psychological mystery from an author who brings a refreshing new voice to horror.
A Man in Winter by Katie Marie is the story of an elderly man – Arthur – who is in the throes of early dementia and whose wife – Molly - was horrifically murdered two years previously when burglars broke into their home. Arthur’s daughter, Sophie, and her husband help her father move into a bungalow in a retirement complex in the hope he will be free of the terrible memories associated with the cottage he lived in with his wife for so many years. But Arthur can’t forgive himself for not being there the night Molly was killed. When he forgets to take the medication he needs to help delay the full onset of his dementia, Molly visits him. She has a mission. Only one of her murderers has been caught. There was a second one and Arthur is the only person who can find him and bring him to justice. The only problem is, if Arthur takes his pills, Molly doesn’t appear and he can’t help her.
This is an apparently gentle tale – at first. But the more the story progresses, the further we are taken into Arthur’s mind as he battles his inner turmoil and tries desperately to get at the truth before it’s too late. The clock is ticking…
I loved the way the author takes us deeper and deeper into Arthur’s world. She skillfully weaves an elaborate web of threads, intertwining one with the other until the reader is as unsure as Arthur as to what is real and what is not. A Man In Winter is also told with real heart. Sophie’s love and concern for her dad come across with strength and sincerity and feeling. This is a quick read, but one that keeps the reader thoroughly intrigued and entertained from beginning to end.
A Man in Winter by Katie Marie is the story of an elderly man – Arthur – who is in the throes of early dementia and whose wife – Molly - was horrifically murdered two years previously when burglars broke into their home. Arthur’s daughter, Sophie, and her husband help her father move into a bungalow in a retirement complex in the hope he will be free of the terrible memories associated with the cottage he lived in with his wife for so many years. But Arthur can’t forgive himself for not being there the night Molly was killed. When he forgets to take the medication he needs to help delay the full onset of his dementia, Molly visits him. She has a mission. Only one of her murderers has been caught. There was a second one and Arthur is the only person who can find him and bring him to justice. The only problem is, if Arthur takes his pills, Molly doesn’t appear and he can’t help her.
This is an apparently gentle tale – at first. But the more the story progresses, the further we are taken into Arthur’s mind as he battles his inner turmoil and tries desperately to get at the truth before it’s too late. The clock is ticking…
I loved the way the author takes us deeper and deeper into Arthur’s world. She skillfully weaves an elaborate web of threads, intertwining one with the other until the reader is as unsure as Arthur as to what is real and what is not. A Man In Winter is also told with real heart. Sophie’s love and concern for her dad come across with strength and sincerity and feeling. This is a quick read, but one that keeps the reader thoroughly intrigued and entertained from beginning to end.
December 1, 2022
A Man in Winter is a small book length wise that packs a big punch.
The author dives right into the thick of the plot from page one and within the first few pages we can feel the fear and uncertainty that Arthur feels as a result of his dementia diagnosis while trying to put up a brave front for his family.
The visits by the ghost of Arthur's late wife Molly and the description of her ghostly body's gradual decay in front of him hints at the gradual deterioration of his own faculties. By the end of the book I was questioning whether Arthur was really visited by his late wife's ghost or was it all a figment of his imagination as a result of his diagnosis. I guess it is upto the readers to decide.
The cover picture and the title are both so hauntingly apt to the story being told!
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Brigids Gate Press LLC and the author Katie Marie for the e-Arc of the book.
The author dives right into the thick of the plot from page one and within the first few pages we can feel the fear and uncertainty that Arthur feels as a result of his dementia diagnosis while trying to put up a brave front for his family.
The visits by the ghost of Arthur's late wife Molly and the description of her ghostly body's gradual decay in front of him hints at the gradual deterioration of his own faculties. By the end of the book I was questioning whether Arthur was really visited by his late wife's ghost or was it all a figment of his imagination as a result of his diagnosis. I guess it is upto the readers to decide.
The cover picture and the title are both so hauntingly apt to the story being told!
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Brigids Gate Press LLC and the author Katie Marie for the e-Arc of the book.
June 22, 2022
While this was not my normal style of book, I am glad that I picked it up to read. The authors writing style is smooth and almost relaxing at times, with no use of unnecessarily long and complicated words, and no flowery descriptions of everything. And while you may not think it to be a conventional horror, there is something quite horrific for the main character who is sliding into his dementia, and is not sure what is real and what is not.
What I liked most was how I felt at the end of the book, left unsure of the actions of the main character, and not sure what was real and what was not. A clever piece of story telling on a subject that should scare us all.
What I liked most was how I felt at the end of the book, left unsure of the actions of the main character, and not sure what was real and what was not. A clever piece of story telling on a subject that should scare us all.
June 16, 2022
I actually read this novella immediately after another book by Brigids Gate Press just to see if it would offset its predecessor. And lo and behold, I’m the first one to rate and review it for GR. Nice. Ok, let’s do this…
Dementia is a scary, scary thing. The author of this story puts the reader in a mind of a man with dementia. A recent widower who begins to see visions of his dead wife. Increasingly unsettling apparitions who insist on being avenged.
You kind of get the idea of where the story’s going fairly straight away, but it’s well done enough and engaging enough to not mind that so much. The journey into madness is harrowing and the nicer the characters (and the characters here are very nice), the tougher it is for the readers.
Overall, a decent enough of a quick read. Thanks Netgalley.
Dementia is a scary, scary thing. The author of this story puts the reader in a mind of a man with dementia. A recent widower who begins to see visions of his dead wife. Increasingly unsettling apparitions who insist on being avenged.
You kind of get the idea of where the story’s going fairly straight away, but it’s well done enough and engaging enough to not mind that so much. The journey into madness is harrowing and the nicer the characters (and the characters here are very nice), the tougher it is for the readers.
Overall, a decent enough of a quick read. Thanks Netgalley.
July 29, 2022
I loved this book. Arthur is the man in the winter of his life. Alone since the passing of his wife, and facing the very real horror of dementia, he makes for an extremely likable but very unreliable narrator. Katie Marie does a fabulous job of giving the reader enough background to make him seem the hero, without slowing the pace of the story. With every turn of the page, I felt that Arthur was that much closer to the end of his mind, but would he be able to solve the mystery of his wife’s death in time.
Although I short in length (I read it in two sittings) this novella told the whole story. It is a fantastic tale that tugs at your heart strings and gives you a few frights along the way.
I would recommend this to fans of the style of A Man Called Ove , the content of Gillian Flynn, and the pacing of Laura Lippman. Very well done indeed!
Although I short in length (I read it in two sittings) this novella told the whole story. It is a fantastic tale that tugs at your heart strings and gives you a few frights along the way.
I would recommend this to fans of the style of A Man Called Ove , the content of Gillian Flynn, and the pacing of Laura Lippman. Very well done indeed!
July 18, 2022
Arthur, whose life was devastated by the brutal murder of his wife, must come to terms with his diagnosis of dementia. He moves into a new home at a retirement community, and shortly after, has his life turned upside down again when his wife’s ghost visits him and sends him on a quest to find her killer so her spirit can move on. With his family and his doctor concerned that his dementia is advancing, will he be able to solve the murder before his independence is permanently restricted?
A Man in Winter examines the horrors of isolation, dementia, loss, and the ghosts that come back to haunt us.
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press, LLC
I just reviewed A Man in Winter by Katie Marie. #AManinWinter #NetGalley
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press, LLC
I just reviewed A Man in Winter by Katie Marie. #AManinWinter #NetGalley
July 22, 2022
This is an excellent book. It is written from the perspective of a man whose wife was murdered. She comes to him as a ghost and begs him to find her murderer. I like how the book shows you how love endures. The husband is in a race against Time. He’s determined to solve her murder before h
September 5, 2022
I received a free copy through NetGalley in turn for an honest review.
A quick and easy read that still has impact. It is not just a horror mystery story with a ghost needing resolution of a crime to move on, it's also a psychological story about a man, grieving his deceased wife and feeling guilty about not being there to help her when she needed him, now diagnosed with dementia and feeling his mind slip away little by little. I really liked how these two aspects play off of each other through the not so reliable narrator .
A quick and easy read that still has impact. It is not just a horror mystery story with a ghost needing resolution of a crime to move on, it's also a psychological story about a man, grieving his deceased wife and feeling guilty about not being there to help her when she needed him, now diagnosed with dementia and feeling his mind slip away little by little. I really liked how these two aspects play off of each other through the not so reliable narrator .
August 19, 2022
Arthur has dementia and he lost his wife one year ago, she died during a house invasion, and this book is told by him how he sees things and interprets them, since he has dementia, maybe what he sees and thinks are not the full truth, so he is not a reliable narrator.
The story keeps you interested in knowing more, actually this book reminded me of the movie “the father” with Olivia Coleman, it gets really sad and we can see the confusion on Arthur, without spoilers I can say, if you’re like me and you like to me submerged in your books not fully understanding what is going on, or better thinking that you do, then realize that maybe you didn’t, but written in a very nice way, you will like Arthur, and really, if you’re like me, I think, you will like all the characters.
Actually I got a bit lost on my ARC-TBR shelf and I kind of left this one behind, if I knew I would like this book this much I would have tackled this before.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC and this is my honest opinion.
The story keeps you interested in knowing more, actually this book reminded me of the movie “the father” with Olivia Coleman, it gets really sad and we can see the confusion on Arthur, without spoilers I can say, if you’re like me and you like to me submerged in your books not fully understanding what is going on, or better thinking that you do, then realize that maybe you didn’t, but written in a very nice way, you will like Arthur, and really, if you’re like me, I think, you will like all the characters.
Actually I got a bit lost on my ARC-TBR shelf and I kind of left this one behind, if I knew I would like this book this much I would have tackled this before.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC and this is my honest opinion.
August 27, 2022
I really enjoyed reading A Man in Winter at first the story starts off really gentle. We are introduced to Arthur who is making the transition from independent to assisted living since the death of his beloved wife. Arthur has recently been diagnosed with dementia and is determined to fight back and stay himself. He fears becoming a stranger to his daughter and grandchildren still getting over the loss of their beloved Grandma.
The story soon picks up pace, there is a shocking twist to the passing of Arthur's wife and then she begins visiting him from beyond the grave. Is it real or just Arthur's illness making him see her? To me it felt very real but I loved the ambiguity. Soon the tale ramps up into a thriller. I think I read this in two sittings and the ending is really explosive!
The story soon picks up pace, there is a shocking twist to the passing of Arthur's wife and then she begins visiting him from beyond the grave. Is it real or just Arthur's illness making him see her? To me it felt very real but I loved the ambiguity. Soon the tale ramps up into a thriller. I think I read this in two sittings and the ending is really explosive!
February 28, 2023
This book was shocking in a very unexpected way. It tells a sad and depressing story mainly about loss: an old man not only loosing his wife due to a brutal murder, but slowly loosing his memories and sense of reality to progresive dementia as well. Right until the end, you never know what's real, if the appearance of the dead wife demanding the old man to take revenge on her murderer is some supernatural ghost thing or just the disturbing imagination of a frail mind. Experiencing the effects of dementia by sharing the old man's confusion, anger and shame really was very unsettling, and I can't event closely imagine what it must be like to suffer from dementia or be close to a demented person.
September 2, 2023
Book Review
My Ratings - 4.8/5
In "A Man in Winter" by Katie Marie, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster through the life of Arthur, a man who has endured profound loss and now grapples with the looming shadows of dementia. The story masterfully navigates the delicate balance between reality and the supernatural, as Arthur's wife's ghost appears, thrusting him into a mission to uncover the truth behind her tragic murder.
Marie's prose weaves a vivid tapestry of Arthur's struggles as he moves into a retirement community, a new chapter in his life that seems to mirror the winter landscape that envelops him. The portrayal of Arthur's battle with dementia is both tender and heart-wrenching, capturing the disorienting experience of losing one's grasp on reality and the agonizing frustration that accompanies it.
The novel's exploration of isolation is deeply poignant. Arthur's sense of loneliness is palpable as he navigates the confines of his own mind, further exacerbated by the weight of his wife's murder and the strain it places on his relationships. The delicate portrayal of his interactions with his family and doctor serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those grappling with dementia, as well as the frustration experienced by their loved ones.
As Arthur embarks on his quest to uncover the truth and bring peace to his wife's spirit, readers are taken on a suspenseful journey that intertwines past and present. The narrative deftly merges the supernatural with the stark reality of Arthur's condition, blurring the lines between memory, perception, and the ethereal.
"A Man in Winter" stands as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and determination, even in the face of overwhelming odds. It's a story that navigates the delicate terrain of loss, memory, and the search for closure, all set against the backdrop of a haunting winter landscape. Katie Marie's evocative storytelling invites readers to contemplate the depths of the human experience, leaving an indelible impact that lingers long after the final page.
My Ratings - 4.8/5
In "A Man in Winter" by Katie Marie, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster through the life of Arthur, a man who has endured profound loss and now grapples with the looming shadows of dementia. The story masterfully navigates the delicate balance between reality and the supernatural, as Arthur's wife's ghost appears, thrusting him into a mission to uncover the truth behind her tragic murder.
Marie's prose weaves a vivid tapestry of Arthur's struggles as he moves into a retirement community, a new chapter in his life that seems to mirror the winter landscape that envelops him. The portrayal of Arthur's battle with dementia is both tender and heart-wrenching, capturing the disorienting experience of losing one's grasp on reality and the agonizing frustration that accompanies it.
The novel's exploration of isolation is deeply poignant. Arthur's sense of loneliness is palpable as he navigates the confines of his own mind, further exacerbated by the weight of his wife's murder and the strain it places on his relationships. The delicate portrayal of his interactions with his family and doctor serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those grappling with dementia, as well as the frustration experienced by their loved ones.
As Arthur embarks on his quest to uncover the truth and bring peace to his wife's spirit, readers are taken on a suspenseful journey that intertwines past and present. The narrative deftly merges the supernatural with the stark reality of Arthur's condition, blurring the lines between memory, perception, and the ethereal.
"A Man in Winter" stands as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and determination, even in the face of overwhelming odds. It's a story that navigates the delicate terrain of loss, memory, and the search for closure, all set against the backdrop of a haunting winter landscape. Katie Marie's evocative storytelling invites readers to contemplate the depths of the human experience, leaving an indelible impact that lingers long after the final page.
June 19, 2023
Dementia is a diagnosis that rocks not just the world of the individual diagnosed, but their family as well. In “A Man in Winter” author Katie Marie explores the pain, the heartbreak, and the horrors that one man experiences as he relives a nightmare fueled by his dementia.
Arthur recently lost his wife to a tragic home invasion. He wasn’t home, but he dreams of that night. Survivor’s guilt plagues him. But honestly, what can he do? There isn’t much that he can do, because what’s done is done. There is no going back and getting a second chance to reschedule the surgery that he needed. He doesn’t get an opportunity to be there when she needed him the most. The police say that the culprit was caught. Justice has been served. But has it? What if there were two men there that night? According to the ghost of his wife, there were. So now what?
Author Marie makes an impact the minute you begin reading this book. From the beginning, you are engaged in this novel as the author shows you where it all began. The main character is saying goodbye to the cottage that he has called home for most of his life. The place that he shared with his wife until she was taken from him. It’s understandable that his family would decide that continuing to live in that cottage would not be beneficial to his mental health. Honestly, how many people would want to live in a “murder house”?
His diagnosis of dementia has already taken place, and while he’s not ready to let go of his independence, other accommodations have been made for him. A nice retirement community. When you read the description of this place, you’ll believe that it sounds absolutely lovely. He has his privacy, and his own space, and can come and go as he pleases. He even has a friendly neighbor. Prepare for a brow-raising moment though when you find out a connection that this new neighbor has.
A Man in Winter is written in the first person. So you’ll be experiencing this story through the eyes of Arthur. The author allows you to share and feel the things that Arthur feels. The impulse of revelation and excitement when you believe that you have found the other person responsible. Expertly the author will tease out reactions from you in connection to certain situations. Be careful. Some scenes will have you thinking “A-ha!” but is the truth something else? Remember, Arthur has dementia. Is what he’s seeing and hearing actually real? Or is his mind influencing him to believe something that…unfortunately just isn’t true?
Arthur will do anything for the woman he loves. Her ghost is pleading with him to help her so that she can move on. She doesn’t want to be tied to this world and be stuck. Arthur wants her to be happy. He’s seeking redemption for his perceived failure. Meanwhile, his daughter’s heart is breaking.
This novel is riveting from beginning to end. What is real? What is just in his head? Has justice actually been served? Or is there another killer out there waiting for justice to be served? Is his neighbor in cahoots with the other killer? Or is she just a friendly older woman looking to be there for him as new to the facility?
The horror aspect of this novel comes in two different forms. The potential of that justice may not have been totally served. That there is still potentially a killer out there. Then there is the fear that what he’s seeing isn’t really there. The author will subtly pull you into this book with the introduction of the ghost. Arthur’s desire for her to be there will infect you and have you right there along with him. Let’s be honest, it’s not unheard of. There is documentation of people seeing those of the dearly departed. Yet, due to Arthur’s condition – few believe him. They believe that it is dementia accelerating.
Watch for certain scenes that the author Katie Marie plants in this book. They will absolutely shock you and have your jaw on the floor. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself questioning what you believe as you read this book. There will be elements that will have you backtracking, but the questioning… won’t end.
While this book focuses on Arthur and his struggles to deal with his illness, and the loss of his wife, it’s not all dark and troubled. The author takes time to write in more lighthearted moments as well. Family outings with his daughter, Sophie, and her two kids. Arthur remembers happier times and moments before the loss of his wife. Humor is sprinkled in to help lighten the mood and bring a smile to your face.
The realism of the characters is well done and expertly highlights the struggle of one man as he does battle with what is real and what is not. As you read this book and take in the details, you will be inclined to think – this could be someone’s actual life playing out on these pages.
When you come to the end of this book you will be left with questions that will have this book sticking with you long after you’ve turned the final page. You get a twisted ending with your jaw slack with shock and horror, and questions battering your mind. They will go unanswered by the author, but that may be so that we the readers can draw our own conclusions.
Not every book is going to have a “happy ending,” but in this case the ending being more of “it’s complicated” fits it beautifully and perfectly. Dementia brings no happiness, but at the very end…there will be what’s most important for all. Peace.
Pros:
Gripping storyline
Pageturner
Realistic
Suspenseful
Cons:
Left with questions
Lesson of the story: When combined with a degenerative disease of the mind, regret can be one of the most dangerous things one can imagine.
Cover Score: 9.0/10
Book score: 9.0/10
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Arthur recently lost his wife to a tragic home invasion. He wasn’t home, but he dreams of that night. Survivor’s guilt plagues him. But honestly, what can he do? There isn’t much that he can do, because what’s done is done. There is no going back and getting a second chance to reschedule the surgery that he needed. He doesn’t get an opportunity to be there when she needed him the most. The police say that the culprit was caught. Justice has been served. But has it? What if there were two men there that night? According to the ghost of his wife, there were. So now what?
Author Marie makes an impact the minute you begin reading this book. From the beginning, you are engaged in this novel as the author shows you where it all began. The main character is saying goodbye to the cottage that he has called home for most of his life. The place that he shared with his wife until she was taken from him. It’s understandable that his family would decide that continuing to live in that cottage would not be beneficial to his mental health. Honestly, how many people would want to live in a “murder house”?
His diagnosis of dementia has already taken place, and while he’s not ready to let go of his independence, other accommodations have been made for him. A nice retirement community. When you read the description of this place, you’ll believe that it sounds absolutely lovely. He has his privacy, and his own space, and can come and go as he pleases. He even has a friendly neighbor. Prepare for a brow-raising moment though when you find out a connection that this new neighbor has.
A Man in Winter is written in the first person. So you’ll be experiencing this story through the eyes of Arthur. The author allows you to share and feel the things that Arthur feels. The impulse of revelation and excitement when you believe that you have found the other person responsible. Expertly the author will tease out reactions from you in connection to certain situations. Be careful. Some scenes will have you thinking “A-ha!” but is the truth something else? Remember, Arthur has dementia. Is what he’s seeing and hearing actually real? Or is his mind influencing him to believe something that…unfortunately just isn’t true?
Arthur will do anything for the woman he loves. Her ghost is pleading with him to help her so that she can move on. She doesn’t want to be tied to this world and be stuck. Arthur wants her to be happy. He’s seeking redemption for his perceived failure. Meanwhile, his daughter’s heart is breaking.
This novel is riveting from beginning to end. What is real? What is just in his head? Has justice actually been served? Or is there another killer out there waiting for justice to be served? Is his neighbor in cahoots with the other killer? Or is she just a friendly older woman looking to be there for him as new to the facility?
The horror aspect of this novel comes in two different forms. The potential of that justice may not have been totally served. That there is still potentially a killer out there. Then there is the fear that what he’s seeing isn’t really there. The author will subtly pull you into this book with the introduction of the ghost. Arthur’s desire for her to be there will infect you and have you right there along with him. Let’s be honest, it’s not unheard of. There is documentation of people seeing those of the dearly departed. Yet, due to Arthur’s condition – few believe him. They believe that it is dementia accelerating.
Watch for certain scenes that the author Katie Marie plants in this book. They will absolutely shock you and have your jaw on the floor. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself questioning what you believe as you read this book. There will be elements that will have you backtracking, but the questioning… won’t end.
While this book focuses on Arthur and his struggles to deal with his illness, and the loss of his wife, it’s not all dark and troubled. The author takes time to write in more lighthearted moments as well. Family outings with his daughter, Sophie, and her two kids. Arthur remembers happier times and moments before the loss of his wife. Humor is sprinkled in to help lighten the mood and bring a smile to your face.
The realism of the characters is well done and expertly highlights the struggle of one man as he does battle with what is real and what is not. As you read this book and take in the details, you will be inclined to think – this could be someone’s actual life playing out on these pages.
When you come to the end of this book you will be left with questions that will have this book sticking with you long after you’ve turned the final page. You get a twisted ending with your jaw slack with shock and horror, and questions battering your mind. They will go unanswered by the author, but that may be so that we the readers can draw our own conclusions.
Not every book is going to have a “happy ending,” but in this case the ending being more of “it’s complicated” fits it beautifully and perfectly. Dementia brings no happiness, but at the very end…there will be what’s most important for all. Peace.
Pros:
Gripping storyline
Pageturner
Realistic
Suspenseful
Cons:
Left with questions
Lesson of the story: When combined with a degenerative disease of the mind, regret can be one of the most dangerous things one can imagine.
Cover Score: 9.0/10
Book score: 9.0/10
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January 10, 2025
Katie Marie’s A Man in Winter is a haunting and deeply moving novel that masterfully blends elements of psychological drama, mystery, and the supernatural. Tackling themes of loss, memory, and the enduring bonds of love, the book offers an emotionally charged exploration of one man’s struggle to reconcile his fractured past with a rapidly deteriorating present.
Arthur, the protagonist, is a character whose pain and vulnerability leap off the page. The brutal murder of his wife left him shattered, and now, with a dementia diagnosis threatening his autonomy, he faces a new kind of loss: the erasure of his identity and independence. Katie Marie portrays his internal battle with incredible sensitivity, making his journey both heartbreaking and profoundly relatable.
The novel takes an intriguing turn when Arthur begins to see the ghost of his wife. Her spirit, unable to rest, implores him to uncover the truth behind her murder. Is this a genuine supernatural event, or is it a manifestation of Arthur’s illness and unresolved grief? This ambiguity adds layers of tension and mystery to the story, keeping readers guessing.
The investigation into his wife’s death provides the narrative’s driving force, but the heart of the book lies in Arthur’s emotional journey. His determination to find her killer is both an act of love and a desperate attempt to prove to himself—and others—that he still has agency in his life. Katie Marie captures his moments of clarity and confusion with poignancy, painting a vivid picture of the challenges faced by those living with dementia.
The supporting characters, including Arthur’s concerned family and his doctor, add depth to the story. Their perspectives provide a counterpoint to Arthur’s quest, emphasizing the tension between his need for independence and their desire to protect him. This dynamic creates a rich emotional tapestry, highlighting the complexity of caregiving and the fear of losing a loved one to illness.
Katie Marie’s prose is evocative and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the isolating chill of winter—a metaphor for Arthur’s solitude and the encroaching fog of dementia. The setting of the retirement community, initially stark and unfamiliar, gradually becomes a stage for Arthur’s quest, underscoring the contrast between his internal battles and the seemingly mundane world around him.
A Man in Winter is more than just a mystery; it’s a meditation on love, memory, and the resilience of the human spirit. The story’s twists and revelations are satisfying, but its greatest achievement lies in its ability to humanize the struggle with dementia while offering a gripping, ghostly tale. Katie Marie has crafted a powerful and thought-provoking novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page.
This book is a must-read for fans of character-driven mysteries and anyone seeking a poignant exploration of life’s fragility and the enduring power of love.
Arthur, the protagonist, is a character whose pain and vulnerability leap off the page. The brutal murder of his wife left him shattered, and now, with a dementia diagnosis threatening his autonomy, he faces a new kind of loss: the erasure of his identity and independence. Katie Marie portrays his internal battle with incredible sensitivity, making his journey both heartbreaking and profoundly relatable.
The novel takes an intriguing turn when Arthur begins to see the ghost of his wife. Her spirit, unable to rest, implores him to uncover the truth behind her murder. Is this a genuine supernatural event, or is it a manifestation of Arthur’s illness and unresolved grief? This ambiguity adds layers of tension and mystery to the story, keeping readers guessing.
The investigation into his wife’s death provides the narrative’s driving force, but the heart of the book lies in Arthur’s emotional journey. His determination to find her killer is both an act of love and a desperate attempt to prove to himself—and others—that he still has agency in his life. Katie Marie captures his moments of clarity and confusion with poignancy, painting a vivid picture of the challenges faced by those living with dementia.
The supporting characters, including Arthur’s concerned family and his doctor, add depth to the story. Their perspectives provide a counterpoint to Arthur’s quest, emphasizing the tension between his need for independence and their desire to protect him. This dynamic creates a rich emotional tapestry, highlighting the complexity of caregiving and the fear of losing a loved one to illness.
Katie Marie’s prose is evocative and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the isolating chill of winter—a metaphor for Arthur’s solitude and the encroaching fog of dementia. The setting of the retirement community, initially stark and unfamiliar, gradually becomes a stage for Arthur’s quest, underscoring the contrast between his internal battles and the seemingly mundane world around him.
A Man in Winter is more than just a mystery; it’s a meditation on love, memory, and the resilience of the human spirit. The story’s twists and revelations are satisfying, but its greatest achievement lies in its ability to humanize the struggle with dementia while offering a gripping, ghostly tale. Katie Marie has crafted a powerful and thought-provoking novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page.
This book is a must-read for fans of character-driven mysteries and anyone seeking a poignant exploration of life’s fragility and the enduring power of love.
January 30, 2025
Billed as a horror story but delivered through the terrors of getting old and fears around living with progressive illness like Lewy body dementia.
Old age seems always to be reflected in literature with comic tones but this novella tackles head-on issues around compounded losses. Those being difficult in themselves, together a complete change in someone’s life. Like the death of a life long partner, a move into less independent living, the loss of memories and general forgetfulness. It is a powerful read and a frightening reality for many families and their loved ones.
The plot is very clever because overlying the story of a degenerate illness, evolves this supernatural element. Focused over Arthur’s guilt for not protecting Molly, his wife, he was in hospital while their home as burgled and was sadly killed. His condition already leaves him confused but when he sees his dead wife physically interacting with him he has no desire to take his medication to offset such illusions.
I loved this duality in the story. A credible ghost like tale but always offering doubt against such an interpretation; when medical reasons for Arthur’s worsening mental health is given by professionals, carers and accepted by loved ones.
As a reader you feel as trapped as the wonderfully crafted characters. Unable to help a deteriorating Arthur, we can understand why he would wish to continue to interact with Molly and bring her some closure. Indeed in his mind and in ‘her reasoning’, free her trapped spirit.
But we are also empathetic with his daughter, losing her Dad before her own eyes to this dreadful disease. Wanting him to be safe and taking his medication.
This makes reading this short story so engaging and involves all your senses.
How do you want it all to end?
Is there ever a good outcome?
What price Independent living?
A book to seek out. It will grab you and its vice like grip will not let you go easily. The horror works on two levels. The horror set in the familiar is most scary. This horror bleeds into the reality of old age, we all potentially face!
Old age seems always to be reflected in literature with comic tones but this novella tackles head-on issues around compounded losses. Those being difficult in themselves, together a complete change in someone’s life. Like the death of a life long partner, a move into less independent living, the loss of memories and general forgetfulness. It is a powerful read and a frightening reality for many families and their loved ones.
The plot is very clever because overlying the story of a degenerate illness, evolves this supernatural element. Focused over Arthur’s guilt for not protecting Molly, his wife, he was in hospital while their home as burgled and was sadly killed. His condition already leaves him confused but when he sees his dead wife physically interacting with him he has no desire to take his medication to offset such illusions.
I loved this duality in the story. A credible ghost like tale but always offering doubt against such an interpretation; when medical reasons for Arthur’s worsening mental health is given by professionals, carers and accepted by loved ones.
As a reader you feel as trapped as the wonderfully crafted characters. Unable to help a deteriorating Arthur, we can understand why he would wish to continue to interact with Molly and bring her some closure. Indeed in his mind and in ‘her reasoning’, free her trapped spirit.
But we are also empathetic with his daughter, losing her Dad before her own eyes to this dreadful disease. Wanting him to be safe and taking his medication.
This makes reading this short story so engaging and involves all your senses.
How do you want it all to end?
Is there ever a good outcome?
What price Independent living?
A book to seek out. It will grab you and its vice like grip will not let you go easily. The horror works on two levels. The horror set in the familiar is most scary. This horror bleeds into the reality of old age, we all potentially face!
May 4, 2023
‘just a helpless old man with a bad hip and dodgy eyesight’ - variations of horror
UK author Katie Marie studied law at Aberystwyth University in Wales, and has gained notoriety for her ghost stories and horror stories. Her books to date include FIREFLY, GREY WINGS, and now A MAN IN WINTER, in addition to multiple anthologies. The author demonstrates her ability to create the dark atmospheres of her novel as she opens the gate to her story: ‘We pulled up outside the cottage and even from the road you could see it was a hollow shell. The windows were curtainless and dirty, the faded paint was peeling on the frames. It wasn’t the home it had been. Sophie helped me out of the car and let me walk up the garden path alone. The garden was still neat; it had been my domain…The front door creaked as it opened directly into the living room. It was bare…’ And so Arthur revisits his home after his wife Molly was murdered and the tale begins.
Though brief this book is a sound presentation of a horror story that deals with response to tragic death, advancing dementia, and ghosts of the past in a sensitive, refreshingly unique manner. The plot: ‘Arthur, whose life was devastated by the brutal murder of his wife, must come to terms with his diagnosis of dementia. He moves into a new home at a retirement community, and shortly after, has his life turned upside down again when his wife’s ghost visits him and sends him on a quest to find her killer so her spirit can move on. With his family and his doctor concerned that his dementia is advancing, will he be able to solve the murder before his independence is permanently restricted?’
Katie Marie makes the horror real, but in creating a man dealing with loss of his beloved wife while attempting to cope with the equal horror of advancing dementia, she takes horror stories to a new level. This is an important, sensitive author to watch. Very highly recommended
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
UK author Katie Marie studied law at Aberystwyth University in Wales, and has gained notoriety for her ghost stories and horror stories. Her books to date include FIREFLY, GREY WINGS, and now A MAN IN WINTER, in addition to multiple anthologies. The author demonstrates her ability to create the dark atmospheres of her novel as she opens the gate to her story: ‘We pulled up outside the cottage and even from the road you could see it was a hollow shell. The windows were curtainless and dirty, the faded paint was peeling on the frames. It wasn’t the home it had been. Sophie helped me out of the car and let me walk up the garden path alone. The garden was still neat; it had been my domain…The front door creaked as it opened directly into the living room. It was bare…’ And so Arthur revisits his home after his wife Molly was murdered and the tale begins.
Though brief this book is a sound presentation of a horror story that deals with response to tragic death, advancing dementia, and ghosts of the past in a sensitive, refreshingly unique manner. The plot: ‘Arthur, whose life was devastated by the brutal murder of his wife, must come to terms with his diagnosis of dementia. He moves into a new home at a retirement community, and shortly after, has his life turned upside down again when his wife’s ghost visits him and sends him on a quest to find her killer so her spirit can move on. With his family and his doctor concerned that his dementia is advancing, will he be able to solve the murder before his independence is permanently restricted?’
Katie Marie makes the horror real, but in creating a man dealing with loss of his beloved wife while attempting to cope with the equal horror of advancing dementia, she takes horror stories to a new level. This is an important, sensitive author to watch. Very highly recommended
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
August 19, 2022
Arthur has dementia and he lost his wife one year ago, she died during a house invasion, and this book is told by him how he sees things and interprets them, since he has dementia, maybe what he sees and thinks are not the full truth, so he is not a reliable narrator.
The story keeps you interested in knowing more, actually this book reminded me of the movie “the father” with Olivia Coleman, it gets really sad and we can see the confusion on Arthur, without spoilers I can say, if you’re like me and you like to me submerged in your books not fully understanding what is going on, or better thinking that you do, then realize that maybe you didn’t, but written in a very nice way, you will like Arthur, and really, if you’re like me, I think, you will like all the characters.
Actually I got a bit lost on my ARC-TBR shelf and I kind of left this one behind, if I knew I would like this book this much I would have tackled this before.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC and this is my honest opinion.
The story keeps you interested in knowing more, actually this book reminded me of the movie “the father” with Olivia Coleman, it gets really sad and we can see the confusion on Arthur, without spoilers I can say, if you’re like me and you like to me submerged in your books not fully understanding what is going on, or better thinking that you do, then realize that maybe you didn’t, but written in a very nice way, you will like Arthur, and really, if you’re like me, I think, you will like all the characters.
Actually I got a bit lost on my ARC-TBR shelf and I kind of left this one behind, if I knew I would like this book this much I would have tackled this before.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC and this is my honest opinion.
July 18, 2022
Arthur, whose life was devastated by the brutal murder of his wife, must come to terms with his diagnosis of dementia. He moves into a new home at a retirement community, and shortly after, has his life turned upside down again when his wife’s ghost visits him and sends him on a quest to find her killer so her spirit can move on. With his family and his doctor concerned that his dementia is advancing, will he be able to solve the murder before his independence is permanently restricted?
A Man in Winter examines the horrors of isolation, dementia, loss, and the ghosts that come back to haunt us.
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press, LLC
I just reviewed A Man in Winter by Katie Marie. #AManinWinter #NetGalley
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press, LLC
I just reviewed A Man in Winter by Katie Marie. #AManinWinter #NetGalley
August 25, 2022
Told from the pov of an aged man suffering from the onset of dementia, A Man in Winter is an impressive psychological suspense story that is hard to put down. A murder mystery woven into the plot further adds to the suspense, as does the supernatural addition of the man’s dead wife visiting him. While I’m not a massive fan of reading paranormal, even though I believe in ghosts, in this case, it worked wonderfully. I also admire that although the plot lacks thrill, it moves quickly and stays interesting. Full of suspense as well as a haunting look into how cruel dementia can be, A Man in Winter is a must-read. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2022
Art’s wife was killed in a horrific manner while he was in the hospital and she was alone. His grief and guilt for not being there is overwhelming. Not to mention the dementia that is taking hold of his body. When he begins to see her spirit begging him to find the other person who was not arrested for her murder, he takes matters into his own hands to help her spirit finally rest. This book was a quick read. It kept my attention and it was very quick moving and interesting but the super long chapters about did me in. I did like the fast pace of it. I felt however that the ending was easily figured out and I was left with a lot of questions.
August 2, 2022
My first NetGalley read!
-This story was told from the perspective of a man with dementia after he loses his wife to a brutal murder.
-This was a great example of a horror story without gore, monsters, and bloodbaths. Sometimes the thing to fear the most is your own mind as you lose control of it. Dementia is a scary and cruel disease for both the person suffering with it, and their loved ones left standing on the sidelines.
-The writing style is smooth and concise. The author doesn’t ramble on in the descriptive passages.
-What I liked the most was the ambiguity of the story - what was real vs what was not.
-This story was told from the perspective of a man with dementia after he loses his wife to a brutal murder.
-This was a great example of a horror story without gore, monsters, and bloodbaths. Sometimes the thing to fear the most is your own mind as you lose control of it. Dementia is a scary and cruel disease for both the person suffering with it, and their loved ones left standing on the sidelines.
-The writing style is smooth and concise. The author doesn’t ramble on in the descriptive passages.
-What I liked the most was the ambiguity of the story - what was real vs what was not.
June 9, 2023
The book is written from Arthur’s point of view, which worked well for his story. We only knew what he knew and, because of his dementia, what he forgot. I sometimes wondered if what he thought transpired did or if it was part of his dementia. Exploring this difficult topic through a murder mystery was intriguing and gave me (as the reader) a different viewpoint.
I felt for Arthur as he tried desperately to help his wife. He knew she was a ghost, but love knows no bounds. The ending was fitting and satisfying (which doesn’t always happen in these types of books).
Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
I felt for Arthur as he tried desperately to help his wife. He knew she was a ghost, but love knows no bounds. The ending was fitting and satisfying (which doesn’t always happen in these types of books).
Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
March 5, 2024
The diagnosis of dementia is horrific in itself, but imagine you are also dealing with the guilt of your late wife's murder, hallucinations, adverse drug effects, and perhaps said murdered come to keep you quiet. Overall it was an interesting story, and I appreciated the aspect of an elderly MC and the unreliable narrator trope via a unique dementia perspective. I felt like I was reading a book that was refreshingly and novel. I did want a little more character development, the why behind the original crime, and a clearer ending.
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press for the opportunity to review this ARC.
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press for the opportunity to review this ARC.
March 5, 2024
The diagnosis of dementia is horrific in itself, but imagine you are also dealing with the guilt of your late wife's murder, hallucinations, adverse drug effects, and perhaps said murdered come to keep you quiet. Overall it was an interesting story, and I appreciated the aspect of an elderly MC and the unreliable narrator trope via a unique dementia perspective. I felt like I was reading a book that was refreshingly and novel. I did want a little more character development, the why behind the original crime, and a clearer ending.
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press for the opportunity to review this ARC.
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Brigids Gate Press for the opportunity to review this ARC.
January 13, 2025
This is a great quick read, I did enjoy the book and I found the authors writing to be concise and to the point. Being in the perspective of someone with dementia was a great choice and it really did make you think...what is real? What is the dementia talking? I liked that Arthur was an unreliable character and you couldn’t be sure.
For me though I guess I like my thrillers/suspense/horrors with a bit more element of surprise in them. It was obvious from very early on where the book was headed. That being said it was still an intriguing book that kept me reading until the end.
For me though I guess I like my thrillers/suspense/horrors with a bit more element of surprise in them. It was obvious from very early on where the book was headed. That being said it was still an intriguing book that kept me reading until the end.
July 14, 2022
This book is very interesting it work the way cat work at beginning it seem all so simple we don't sense anything is wrong everything seem simple & perfect then slowly like a cat it attack on you jump in subject & took hold of mind it is showing so wonderful effects on mind I really like the way it described situation it is presenting all in thrilling way not showing it as unpleasant thing till end it is interesting. Great job by writer!
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