Winter: The Story of a Season by Val McDermid

This is a review of Winter: The Story of a Season, a soon-to-be-published book by Val McDermid.

Winter is not my favorite time of year. In fact I consider it the worst of all seasons but I found it interesting to read an opposite opinion from one of my favorite writers. I especially enjoy Val McDermid’s Karen Pirie and Allie Burns series.

But moving on to Winter, this is a book of relatively short essays on memories of growing up in Scotland, discussions of winter festivals in Scotland and of course the role of winter in her writing process.

I thank both Netgalley (https://www.netgalley.com ) and Grove Atlantic (https://groveatlantic.com/) for the chance to read this before publication. The book will be published on January 13, 2026.

I read this book, despite my dislike of the season. I’m glad I read it and I hope you will give it a try. Anyone with an interest is Scotland or the author would probably enjoy this book.