2025 Booker Shortlist: The Land in Winter

Next up is The Land in Winter. You can read our short reviews here: The Land in Winter. The novel made it onto 3 of our predictions lists and it was in the top six books from our collective ratings. The Booker judges had this to say about the book…

In the depths of Britain’s coldest winter, two neighbouring women forge a friendship in the countryside. It’s 1962 and they have both just become pregnant. Around them, the men are struggling: maimed by father figures, haunted by the past, hampered by the destructiveness of their own desires. As a winter storm wreaks havoc on their lives, these characters become pivotal figures in a community precariously balanced between history and future: between the damage wrought by the war and the freedom for women that lies ahead. In beautifully atmospheric prose, Andrew Miller brings suspense and mystery to this seemingly inconsequential chapter in British history.’

What does our panel think of the odds of this book being this year’s winner? Keep reading to find out

Jen’s Thoughts:
Why it Could Win: For me, this was the best written novel. It evoked a brilliant sense of atmosphere and of all the slow, reflective books on the list, this was by far the best.
Why it Might Not Win: This is my runner up for winner and I think it stands a good chance at taking the prize. But, I think about her book will take it.

Nicole’s Thoughts: I love this book, I think it’s the dark horse on this list.
Why it Could Win: When you are reading it, you are there. It’s well-written and interesting.
Why it Might Not Win: Something flashier will win.

Tracy’s Thoughts: A thoughtful, atmospheric, clean novel.
Why it Could Win: It’s just so beautifully crafted and written.
Why it Might Not Win: Readers may find the style old-fashioned.

Anita’s Thoughts:
Why it Could Win: Andrew Miller is in such command of every aspect of this book that it’s hard not to be impressed. From the atmosphere to the language to the characters, there’s not a word out of place. Beautiful writing!
Why it Might Not Win: The book doesn’t really lead the reader to a larger conclusion about the world and in that sense it does not remind me of other Booker winners.

Lisa’s Thoughts: I don’t love every book that is slower and meditative (I’m looking at you, Orbital), but I did really love this one. Something about the way the author wrote about the winter felt so visceral.
Why it Could Win: Beautiful writing, complex characters
Why it Might Not Win: There are lots of books about WWII— though perhaps fewer about the post-war period.

Try the book for yourself! You can purchase a copy here: The Land in Winter

We want to hear from you? Have you read this one? Tell us what you thought of the book (link to your reviews or add a brief blurb in the comments). Do you think is will be the winner?