Reviews of Winter of the Wolf
"Remarkable…a supernaturally tinged whodunit that will enrapture mystery fans.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“Blends spiritual elements with its mystery...Winter of the Wolf is an emotional novel in which discovering the truth sets a mourning teenager free.”
—Foreword Reviews
"With the focus of this story being on family and spirituality Handler has created something that will resonate deeply with readers. [Bean] is a strong main character who readers will feel a strong bond with. If you have experienced loss this book could help you to find a way to work through those emotions while feeling supported by the characters you are taking this journey with.”
—The Nerdy Girl Express
"In The Winter of the Wolf, readers feel the tragedy of loss, of suicide, of grief, of questioning, of seeking spiritual understanding, of finally accepting the suicidal death of a loved one. And ultimately, readers get a feeling of peace and acceptance in the end.”
—Nina Lewis, Grandma Ideas
"A heartbreaking story about family, love, loss, friendship, and spirituality."
— Kids Bookshelf
"Winter of the Wolf addresses grief, spirituality, and mystery in a unique and beautiful story.”
— Little Red’s Reviews
"I really enjoyed this book. Right from the beginning I was hooked….an impactful and eye opening read.”
— Runaway Irish Girl
"This novel tackles the heavy topic of death and how Bean and her family each handle Sam’s passing.”
— Openly Bookish
"I am all in all head over heels for this succinct telling of a family’s journey through trauma…5 stars."
— Unabridged Bren
"Wow! Winter of the Wolf was such an emotional read. I get so invested in a story that has a mystery element but also draws me in emotionally. It was beautiful to read!"
— She Just Loves Books
"A must read emotional thriller that includes deep themes of suicide and guilt. Our characters must wade through their heavy emotions and experiences to find the answers that are on the other side. A must read for those that enjoy mystery and thrillers, you won’t be disappointed."
— Adventures in Lit
"The book starts out strong and looks at a family and their grief and the reader feels for them."
— Red Carpet Crash
"Winter of the Wolf by Martha Hunt Handler is a very well written story that was agonizing, emotional, and compelling read that struck me from the very first pages of the book."
— Nurse Bookie
"I cannot begin to describe how beautifully Ms Handler has written this story. At times, it was hard for me believe this was a piece of fiction...Ms Handler is a master storyteller. The writing is absolutely beautiful. A lot of work has been put into writing this book and I personally think this book is one of the best books I have ever read. Too good to believe this is a debut novel!"
— The Book Decoder
"Winter of the Wolf kept me guessing throughout, and really kept me involved with Bean’s feelings and her journey to figure out what happened to Sam."
— Buried in a Bookshelf
"Such a great book and it covers a lot of issues teens could learn about. They sometimes exhibit risky behaviors because they think its safe, or they'll be OK and a lot of times that's just not the case. Highly recommend."
Stranded in Chaos
"Overall, this book was a quick read, and I think it can be a great introduction for someone young dealing with grief, to feeling empowered and knowing that there is hope. That moving forward is possible."
— Jas Being Jas
“A very good book."
Jazzy Book Reviews
"Winter of the Wolf is in my top ten books as one of the best of the year!"
— Cheryl’s Book Nook
“A well written spiritual mystery"
— Lori’s Book Loft
"Brimming with spirituality and a heart-breaking mystery at its centre, Martha Hunt Handler’s debut novel, Winter of the Wolf, takes the reader on an emotionally unforgettable journey...Ultimately, The Winter of the Wolf, is a quiet and impactful novel that relishes in the beauty of nature and the spirit. It is unlike any other current young adult novel and is a story that will leave a lasting impression."
— The Nerd Daily
"Winter of the Wolf isn’t a long read but there is a lot there when it comes to showing death, grief, and how it impacts what you believe in."
— Quibbles & Scribbles
“[Winter of the Wolf] is a heartfelt read, at times I felt helpless and sad myself but it is so much more. It is about moving on and finding peace with yourself and others. Beautifully written."
— Books from Dusk Til Dawn
"A wonderful book that I would happily read again."
— Steph’s Book Blog
“A gripping, emotional story"
—Riana Shahid
"Martha Hunt Handler’s writing perfectly depicts grief after losing a beloved family member….Winter of the Wolf is one of the most accurate books I have read at depicting loss."
— The Bloom Stack
"The extensive character development creates relatable characters and because it is written in language that is easy to understand, the story flows easily from page to page, making it an exciting page-turner...Winter of the Wolf is a must-read and recommended for anyone dealing with grief and in need of comfort, spiritual guidance and one viewpoint surrounding the mystery of life after death."
— SA Examiner
“An empathic and heartfelt story that will endear you to Bean, her family and to understanding the Innuit customs and rituals about life and death."
— Just Reviews
"For all readers who have had to endure grief, this book is definitely gonna melt your hearts! Brilliant."
— Rain’n’Books
"I highly recommend Winter of the Wolf for ages teen and up. It offers a powerful exploration of growing up spiritually, emotionally, and physically, as well as showing how a family can evolve after such a tragic loss."
— My Shelf
"This is an incredible story of forgiveness, understanding and spiritual beliefs with an important underlying message to teens...Winter of the Wolf is a well written novel that is suitable for young adults and adults alike."
— Working Mommy Journal
"This is one of those rare novels that walks the line between education and entertainment with perfect grace. Despite the grave beginnings, it soars to a hopeful finish that left me feeling fulfilled and inspired."
— Theresa Smith Writes
"Cunningly plotted and expertly executed, Winter of the Wolf features strong spiritual themes, a tale that explores the place of intuition in our connectedness with nature and loved ones"
— The Book Commentary