I really enjoyed this book! I had not read a book by this author before but I will definitely look out for more of her work. I think she is a great writer and this was the most atmospheric book I have read in months. Snow, forests, a lake, an old and empty orphanage with a gruelling history, what more could one want? At times I got so consumed by the book that it felt like I was in the middle of winter, that I lived in Vermont and that I would have to wear my thickest winter coat when leaving the house - none of these things are true (sadly).

I really liked Alex and warmed to her despite me wanting to shake her occasionally and tell her to look after herself better. I very much felt for her friend Lola throughout this, because I can totally see how Alex was somewhat self-destructive at times. However, I love how she was consumed by her case, how she wanted to do Tommy justice, how she really wanted to tell the children's stories.

I have to admit, the twist disappointed me. Not because it was a bad twist, but because I really didn't want it to be that way, I was hoping for a different outcome. However, I also enjoyed Alex' screw-that attitude at the end and I clapped in delight, so I guess that made up for it.