Book 1 of The Winter Tales
Blake Duchamp…He’s all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim’s Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.
But Blake isn’t all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. He is her only protection against the gathering darkness. The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger.
Himself.
Download the first 80 pages of Winter’s Shadow: Winter’s Shadow
Praise for Winter’s Shadow
‘Winter’s Shadow is a beautifully written, original and imaginative tale. It took no time at all before I was completely hooked, and if this is the debut novel, then it is eerie to think what might come next from this author – and I can’t wait!’ - KYLIE
‘Get out your crowbar, prise off the lid from the Paranormal YA coffin and let the sunlight in! MJ Hearle brings a refreshing new voice to this genre with his debut novel, Winter’s Shadow. No vampires, zombies or ghouls – instead he has created an engaging young heroine in Winter Adams, a mysterious and compelling hero in Blake Duchamp and a new breed of supernatural beings with their own unique mythology that will have readers wanting more.’ – JANE
‘A truly original supernatural story, grounded in reality. I was drawn into this from the first page and couldn’t put it down until the end. The characters are simply beautiful and the story telling is effortless. A rare find in this genre.’ – LEAH
‘Loved this book! It ticks all the boxes for supernatural romance: a brooding, dark love interest; an innocent heroine with a special gift; a dark secret in an attic in a spooky old house; murder and mayhem. It’s one of the most imaginative mythologies I’ve come across in a story of its kind in years. Highly recommended!’ – JOEL
‘It would be too easy to dismiss Winter’s Shadow as just another paranormal novel, with its stunning cover and doomed romance plot. However, there is so much that makes it stand above the glut: a genuinely relatable heroine whose quirks (like christening her scooter Jessie) endear her further and a hero who has dark secrets and no magic solutions but a kind heart and a willingness to do right (‘One day, I hope to find a good reason to die.’).Backed up by an original, spine-tingly mythology and heart-in-your-mouth action, this book is so much more than I’ve come to expect from the supernatural genre.I will be giving this book to everyone I know who was left unsatisfied by the Twilight franchise, as well as fans of Isobelle Carmody, so they can indulge in an entertaining and terrifically spooky read.’
- LIBBY
‘At turns terrifying, romantic, and heartbreaking. The most thrilling aspect of Winter’s Shadow is the genuine sense of discovery. This is a brand new supernatural mythology and with the introduction of Winter Adams, we have one of the most compelling heroines of recent memory.’ – GRETA
‘Despite being one of the most original examples in this genre, what lingers after turning the last page isn’t the magic and monsters, which are a welcome change from all the werewolves and vampires that crowd the shelves, but the sensitively evoked feelings of love, loss, self-doubt and alienation that any teenager (and anyone who’s ever been a teenager) can identify with.’ – CATE
‘Heartbreaking love story and one of the best chase scenes I’ve read anywhere! I loved it.’
- KATIE
‘Couldn’t put the book down. I really hope there is a second one on the way.. I’m not a fast reader and I finished it in 3 days. I would have loved to see more chapters on Blake’s history or more writing from his point of view. but that’s me. I really like to get into the Characters. i’m hoping that’s coming in the next book.’ – SOUZAN
Oh my gosh, your publisher just asked if I could review your book a couple weeks ago!!! (I think. I’m pretty sure I remember that red hair) Now I’m super excited!
Brilliant! Hope you enjoy it! I’m hard at work trying to get the first draft of the sequel finished at the moment. There’s not enough hours in the day.
I just finished and reviewed your novel – which will be going up on my blog today! Man oh man, I am really hoping there is a sequel on its way, which after reading the above comment, there will be one (Woot), hoping that comes out very soon after the first, my gosh it was A-mazing with a capital A!!! An absolutely compelling novel that I really feel the urge to swoon about!
She Known As Jess!
Why thank you, Jess. I’m very glad you enjoyed it. It’s a wonderful treat to read such a positive comment. As soon as the sequel’s ready for review I’ll be sure you get a copy. Thanks again!
I can’t wait to get that copy in my hands that you speak of and devour it completely =D Cheers, and thanks for keeping me in mind for when the review copies come out!!! =D
Excited about this but…. do you happen to know when this is coming to the US? I have yet to find any publishing information for us overly excited bloggers in the U.S.
Alas, I have no US publisher locked down yet. Feel free to campaign on my behalf.
Hello,
Still no word on a US publication date yet but I thought I’d shoot this link through to you as it has free International shipping.
http://www.fishpond.com.sg/Books/Winters-Shadow-MJ-Hearle/9780330404471?cf=3&rid=397442304&i=1&keywords=winter%27s+shadow
Hey MJ,
I”d like to say I’m not jealous that you beat me to the printers, but I’d be flat-out lying
Seriously though, congrats on the book. My mum’s picking me up a copy at the launch on Friday, I’m looking forward to giving it a read.
Cheers,
Felix (The Writer Formerly Known as Chris Parlevliet)
Cheers Felix (AKA Chris)
Great to hear from you. Hope you like the book. It’s all luck at the end of the day. How’s your writing coming along?
Where is my free copy you bum!!!!!
Uncle Mike
It’s in the mail. Honestly.
better be
Ah family and freebies…..lol
Looking forward to enjoying the book launch
I’m looking forward to having you here
Loved your book cant wait 4 the next one going to tell all my friends about this book .
Cheers Bev!
Read the excerpt and am thrilled that you have the first 80 pages online, because I live in the States! How can I get my hands on a copy of your book??
Glad you enjoyed the first 80 pages. It only gets better! I haven’t got a US publisher yet (my agent is trying hard to sell me over there at the moment) so the best way for you to get a copy is to go to the home page and use one of the purchasing links to order.
Thanks for the interest!
Hi Micheal,
This is your number one fan here, Michelle. Well meeting you last night was such a privilege and I was so overwhelmed you gave me a poster and signed it. Well as I told you last night yours was the first book I have ever been able to read as it was so suspenseful and thrilling all the way from the beginning to the end, and you should be ever so proud that you have inspired a fifty year old women to read ( I thank you ). I think you are a brilliant author and also you seem like a lovely person and your grandmother is a beautiful lady also and it was an honor for me to have met you both. I had such a wonderful time and can’t wait for the next book, so get your finger out and get to work and I mean that in the nicest way LOL.
Cheers for now.
Michelle
It was a pleasure meeting you, Michelle. I’m absolutely delighted my little book had such a powerful effect on you. Hopefully, the sequel won’t disappoint. Stay tuned to my blog for details (I may even let slip a couple of plot hints as to where Winter’s story goes next!!
Thanks again!
You have just slapped me in the face with unique paranormal awesomeness. I got a review copy (which I have no idea what to do with because it’s more like a manuscript than an ARC
) and if I’d known 2 months ago how deeply compelling and artistic WINTER’S SHADOW would be, I’d have ripped open the package and delved right into its pages from day one. I’m sorry for holding out on this precious gem for so long. Seriously though. It’s books like THESE that gives me hope that the paranormal YA genre is headed in the right direction.
Can’t wait for the sequel. My review will be up in a few weeks . . . though my first DRAFT review is already written on Goodreads. Needless to say (but will say anyway), I’m sold.
Why thank you Cass
What a brilliant comment! You’ve made my day. I’m currently polishing the sequel at the moment (in fact I should be doing it right now!) so it should be available this time next year. Be sure to spread the Winter’s Shadow love with all your friends. I’m looking forward to reading your review so shoot me a link when its up.
Thanks again!
Loved this book! The anticipation for the sequel is killing me; will Blake be able to come back from the dead lands? Will winter really be safe from the skivers? It would be cool if we found out a bit more about Winter parents, like if they were somehow safe in Krypthia or a twist of some sort and the big one will Blake be able to live on earth now that his body is gone? If so does that mean his crazy sister will be back too? Oh goodie, oh goodie I hope this turns into a long series of books for us to read. : )
Ah…you’ll just have to wait and see Renee (laughs wickedly while rubbing his hands together)
I’m totally looking forward to reading this one. It’s on the TBR and it’s looking at me with puppy eyes
Plus it’s fantastic to see a MALE AUSSIE YA author out there!! *dances* I though you were a dying breed. ^-^
Cheers Saskia,
I look forward to hearing what you think when you finish the book. Drop me a line.
An incredibly read, I must say. I am spreading around the words to my friends. The one’s who read anyway… You’ve started a whole new phase for me, which can be looked at from both negative and positive points of views, I want mmore books. I want all of your books. Haha! My parents already had enough problems with trying to reign my excitement over paranormal books and now my love for them has just grown. I thank you, mister Hearle, for creating a world that doesn’t revolve around sparkling vampires and sexy, shirtless wolves. Although it was quite a treat. Your books delved me into a world I thought could never be possible. I’ve had dreams in the world of Krypthia, before I knew your book existed. I was shocked but excited. I wish I could put my imagination to good use, but alas I am only sixteen and probably will just get overlooked. Anyhow, I am congratulating on your ride to success! You are a great author and I hope others will realise this.
Many thanks,
- Marissa Kaandorp.
Hey Marissa,
Thanks again for your compliments. It was a wonderful treat this morning to find them waiting in my inbox. Feel free to comment any time.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. I’m really glad you enjoyed the book. I used to have dreams about the Krypthia as well. In a way, it’s the dreams that led to me writing the book. I wouldn’t worry about being overlooked – if you have a fertile imagination sooner or later something amazing will occur to you. Then all you have to do is write it down. Easy, huh?
M. J.
really enjoyed Winters Shadow!!! can’t wait for the next book, i really want to know what happens to Winter!!!
Cheers Bri,
Keep your eyes peeled for the sequel Winter’s Light. It will be out mid next year and is even better (in my opinion) than the first book.
will there be another book after the second???
There certainly will be and it’s going to be epic!
I live in the US and I got your book from a friend in Australia and I have to say I LOVE your story and how you brought something different to the YA Genre. I am posting the book on my blog and I will be giving away my copy so others in the US can enjoy it just like I have. Please get me posted as to when the sequel will be coming out. Thank you again for the fresh of breathe air in reading Winter’s Shadow.
Hi Taneesha,
And firstly can I say – love the profile pic! I really appreciate you spreading the Winter’s Shadow love. It was a tough story to write so getting such positive feedback from readers such as yourself is very gratifying. I’ve literally just posted the manuscript of the sequel to my agent and am waiting nervously to hear the feedback. For what it’s worth – my girlfriend and parents have read the book and think it’s better than the first. Hopefully others will as well.
Thanks again for commenting and look forward to more correspondence.
Cheers,
M. J.
I just discovered you at Talli Roland’s this afternoon (left a comment there) and just downloaded the first pages you offered as a sample of your book. I’m excited to read them. The book certainly garnered some great reviews. I’m a young 71; first book recently published, it took that long! But still young enough to remember the fairy tales of my childhood, The Twilight Zone, and early Ray Bradbury. But in the past few decades I haven’t read any supernatural tales. Still, I have an open mind and will now open it to the pages of your novel. I applaud you!
Hi Ann,
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it. Talli writes a fantastic blog doesn’t she? I was very lucky she gave me the opportunity to guest post. Congratulations on being published – what’s the name of your novel? I’d love to read it. Thank you as well for downloading the first 50 pages of Winter’s Shadow. Any fan of the Twilight Zone or Ray Bradbury will hopefully find something of value in my book.
Thanks again.
M. J.
My novel is actually a memoir: In the Mirror. On Amazon under my author name, Ann Carbine Best. I see you’ve gotten rave reviews for YOUR novel, and from what I’ve read, I can see why!
Hi Ann,
I’ll jump on Amazon now and check it out. Thanks for the kind words.
HI! I loved your book.
Just thought you would like to see the review i wrote about it!
Let’s start by giving this book a 4.6-5. You’ll soon learn that my ratings will mostly be a point something so you’ll just have to hold on tightly!
Books Name: Winter’s Shadow (Formerly SHADE- Just wanted to put it out there as i thought that was a very interesting change)
Published: Pan Macmillian Australia
Author: M.J Hearle
WARNING: This book does not contain Werewolves, Vampires fairies or other supernatural creatures you do know. If you not fine with that, then you should be. It’s nice to see a change in the atmosphere around here. Go Australia!
Oh yes, the blurby bit:
Blake Duchamp…
He’s all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim’s Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.
But Blake isn’t all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.
The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself
REVIEW TIME! NON SPOILERY!
At first, you might think this is just another Twilight book. Yes that’s what i thought. Well, my librarian did actually say that if you like Twilight, then you will probably like this book. I do like Twilight but i was kinda sick of all those paranormal romance’s that included a Plain Jane girl with a totally hot tall and handsome prince charming. I gave it try because i was my friends book adviser, as funny as it sounds XD. She only liked to read books like “Hush Hush by Becca Flitzpatrick” so i gave Winter’s Shadow a try. Guess what? I Loved it.
Yes, i know, it starts of with every other paranormal romance book, and just when i thought i knew where it was going. BAM, i did not. The are small comparisons that can relate to twilight, but doesn’t nearly every novel have some kind of form of that? I don’t regret reading it at all. It’s a fantastic read that i’m sure paranormal readers will enjoy. Hearle’s writing was enjoyable and i had no trouble reading it. There was just enough description to set the scene and mood. I admit, i did get quite cranky when Hearle flitted back and forth through time periods, though the scenes weren’t anything stupid at all. So i was utterly fine. I’m looking forward to Winter’s Light, the next book in the series.
I know that not only people that haven’t read the book are reading this, so if you have i would love to know what your think about this book.
Now, time for the SPOILER TIME. No, i’m not spoiling the whole story, i’m just discussing the things to myself that i did and didn’t like which would probably spoil things.
So DON”T read if you haven’t finished.
Okay okay, it was pretty obvious that CLAUDETTE was stuck upstairs and that meant i realised things more then Plain Jane did over there. Though at the start, i just thought it was actually a monster when Hearle described her as “IT” and that did catch me. Also what caught me was the Skivers, and those, i love.
Interesting on how he came up with his new supernaturals! I love them but i did really wish the guy would not always say, “You should stay away from me! I’m a monster,” and the girls reaction would be, “Your not a monster to me!” in a hand to forehead faint call. Why can’t it be, “I’m a hot guy but most people think i’m a monster,” an the girl, “You are such a Jerk, can’t wait to rip your head off.” Maybe that’s just me? :O oh well though!
Hi ForeverReading,
Thanks so much for your review. I appreciate the honest criticism, and glad the book (mostly) worked for you. I think you’ll enjoy the sequel even more because it completely moves away from the Twilight paradigm into something new. I can’t say just what yet, but I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Cheers,
M. J.
Hi M.J
WOW thankyou so much for replying.
There is no such this as a perfect book and if i ever found one, then i don’t think it would be called “perfect” anymore. Everything has faults and thats just what makes it real. Your book is not what i expected and i can’t wait to see what you will do in the sequel! I REALLY can’t wait for the sequel! Thankyou so much for getting me back into reading. I had a moment in my life when i just looked at books and groaned. You saved me from that! Thankyou!
Foreverreading-Chami
I’m absolutely delighted to have played a part in getting you reading again. There’s so many great stories out there. And thanks again for your support. Writing books is a lonely job fraught with insecurity and self-doubt. Reading positive comments like yours makes it much easier to face the blank page with confidence.
Cheers!
I write as well but i’m not as good as you since i’m still a teenager. Your one of my inspirations for Australian Authors! Don’t ever stop writing or you’ll just make me comment on your page every single day until you start again.
Just keep plugging away Chami. Write a little every day and I’m sure it won’t be long before we see your name gracing a book cover.
Thankyou
We’ll at least that taught my friend a lesson and she’s finally reading!
My Friend finally read Winter’s Shadow and she loved it! But she didn’t like the ending because of what happened to Blake. I thought it was a interesting twist and i doubt that we’ve seen the last of him!
Thankyou again
I’m sorry your friend was sad about what happened to Blake, Chami, but please let her know his fate may not be final. I won’t say anything else only that the sequel to Winter’s Shadow holds many surprises and sometimes dead isn’t really dead. And then again, sometimes it is…
I am seriously campaigning to get your book in the States!!!
Thanks Paula – little books like mine need all the help they can get!
M.J I’m in the US… how do I get a copy of the book! I am dying to read it
Hi Christina,
At the moment I don’t have a US publication deal so your best bet is to try one of the links on my ‘Store’ page to get it shipped to you. Otherwise, cross your fingers and hope I get a deal soon (that’s what I’m doing!).
Thanks for your interest.
M. J.
Hi Christina,
I just discovered this site which apparently has free delivery to the US. Maybe give it a try?
http://www.fishpond.com.sg/Books/Winters-Shadow-MJ-Hearle/9780330404471?cf=3&rid=397442304&i=1&keywords=winter%27s+shadow
can’t wait!!!!!
I’m commenting to make you understand of the useful encounter my cousin’s princess developed checking your web site. She came to understand numerous things, including what it’s like to have an excellent giving style to make many people without difficulty know some specialized topics. You truly exceeded our own desires. Thanks for supplying the warm and friendly, safe, educational and also unique tips on that topic to Jane.
I’m very glad I could be of help. Stop by the site anytime.
Hi M.J.
Thanks for stopping by Novels On The Run, I do have Winter’s Shadow here to read, need to crack it open.
Michelle
No probs, I enjoy your writing. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on Winter’s Shadow.
Mmm loving the same pages! Very interesting!
Mmm loving the sample pages! Very interesting!
It gets better
ahh! stupid computer posted twice!
I really love this book. The characters are honest and well developed. Saying that anticipation for a sequel is killing me!! Any ideas on a release date?
On a side note. Is there anything you need from your fans to further your success?? (and get me more book??
)
Hey Melissa,
Glad you liked the book. Winter’s Light should be hitting shelves May 2012 so not long now to wait. The best thing you can do to support the book is just to tell your friends and family about it. Publishing is a word of mouth business. Send out an email with a link to my website where they can download the first 50 pages for free. Also you can point them towards the Winter’s Shadow facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Winters-Shadow/131161630290034 and ask them to “Like” it. Thanks again for your kind words and support.
Had your book in my collection for a little while, down here in Australia and i have them organised in alphabetical order by surname due to having soooo many.. Finally got to yours and I am about to start reading it. From all the reviews it sounds AH.Mazing so can’t wait to get into it
Hoping there is a sequel
Candice
Cheers mate 
x
P.s. I also have a list of all the books in my collection so i dont buy 2 of the same (because I have soo many, but i break down author’s names, eg: M J Hearle, I’d try googling what “M J” is.. any help with that?
Hi Candice,
Thanks for writing. Hopefully the book lives up to your expectations. Make sure you shoot me a message with your thoughts when you finish.
There is a sequel and it’s called Winter’s Light. It will be released in May this year (2012). Without spoiling it for you, the story takes Winter into a very dark and dangerous place but one I’m confident readers will have a great time exploring.
As for the ‘M’ in MJ is stands for ‘Michael’ (or Mike or Mick).
Cheers!
GA! I read this, then recommended it to a mate, and we are both willing to kill to get the second book!
When does it come out?! Any idea?
Hey Gina,
Glad you enjoyed the book. The sequel comes out in May 2012 so not long to wait now. Make sure you follow the blog as I’ll post the exact date as soon as I know. Or ‘Like’ the Winter’s Shadow facebook page which I also update with info. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Winters-Shadow/131161630290034
Cheers,
MJ
Loved this book. I read a lot about a book a day, but this one i always remember and can read over and over. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
What a lovely comment! Thanks so much Emma. Hopefully the second book will work just as much for you. MJ
I think it will. Can’t wait to add it to my collection.
Great read!!
Cheers Andrew, I’m really glad you liked it.
Hi MJ,
I hope all is going well:D
I was just wondering if my envelope made it ok to you with the prints for signing for the giveaway/interview I have posted on blog in April. I sent them to the address you gave me:D
Have a nice day.
Michelle
Hi Michelle,
I got the prints yesterday. The secretary at my office had forgotten to let me know that they’d arrived. I’ll sign them and post them back to you today.
Cheers,
MJ
Phew!! No problems. I have extended the giveaway end date. Just releaved they got to you ok. Take your time I think I made date 28th May.
Have a lovely weekend:D
Michelle