For me, this was such a lovely, gentle book. I read it over a day and it really evoked some lovely memories for me, knowing the places mentioned in the book. Unusually for someone from Scotland this is the first book by Val McDermid that I have read, but it won't be the last. I love books that bring new words for me to learn and this book did that for me. I think I will now go on the read the other books in the series. I will keep and read them in the relevant season. A joyous read.

One of my top five books of this year. Full of the things that make the art of wintering a worthwhile study: There are food treats, stunning scenery, tales of celebrations past and present, and plenty more reasons to embrace the shorter days in this gem of a book by Val McDermid. Illustrated with beautiful artwork by Philip Harris, ‘Winter’ is the perfect excuse to escape the daily grind and invest in a little me time…for the full experience just add a steaming mug of hot chocolate, or a glass of your favourite tipple. Happy Wintering!

What a beautiful book I've been reading Val Mcdermid's crime novels most of my adult life, particularly loving the Scottish noir themes. This book is a collection of special memories and celebrations throughout Winter in Scotland: The beauty of the Firth of Forth, the traditions of Hogmanay, the poetry of Burns, and the hearty food of timeless traditions. I enjoyed this so much and it's a book I will be returning to time and time again when you need that bit of comfort and direction in the dark months, Val Mcdermid's writing is sublime.

A wonderful book to bring back memories of places and times gone by. Great to read on cold winter days and recall places you had forgotten brought back to life. Wonderful memories of how Hogmanay used to be spent in such detail , my family finally could finally believe how I used to spend this celebration in such a different way. It was like a travel through winter and places with wonderful memories. Loved this book!

Winter is definitely my favourite season and Val McDermid nails why. Join her for bracing walks, and a season of intense creativity as she shares everything that makes the season special to her and her childhood memories spanning from Halloween to the appearance of springs first bulbs. A really charming book that should help anyone see the beauty of the season with all its wildness and wonder.