Year Without Summer: 1816 - one event, six lives, a world changed - longlisted for the Walter Scott Prize 2021

The Year Without Summer is a historical fiction novel set in 1815, following the eruption of Mount Tambora and its effects on the world. The novel is written by six different authors and explores the lives of people in Britain, Switzerland, Vermont, Suffolk, and the Fens, as they struggle to cope with the consequences of the disaster.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 18 February 2021
Publisher: John Murray Press

The Year Without Summer is a captivating historical fiction novel that has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. It has been longlisted for the prestigious Walter Scott Historical Fiction Prize 2021, a testament to its literary excellence. Additionally, the book has been shortlisted for the HWA Gold Crown Award 2020, further highlighting its recognition in the genre.

The novel is written by a strikingly sharp and subtle writer, known for their ability to create vivid and unforgettable narratives. The Guardian praised the book, describing it as superb, beautifully written, and unforgettable. The FT Weekend also commended the author's skillful writing, stating that the book was skillfully executed. The Sunday Times praised the book for its rich, intricate, and impressively realized portrayal of the past. The Observer highlighted the vivid realism of the book, stating that it was vividly realized. The Times praised the book for its vision of the past and its vision of the future, describing it as a vivid slice of historical fiction. The Irish Times praised the book for its vivid portrayal of the past, describing it as a vivid slice of historical fiction. The Sunday Express praised the book for its vivid slice of historical fiction, describing it as a captivating read.

The novel takes place in various locations and periods, including 1815 on Sumbawa Island, Indonesia, where Mount Tambora explodes in a cataclysmic eruption, killing thousands. Ship surgeon Henry Hogg is sent to investigate the eruption, and he is shocked to find the island transformed into a desolate wasteland, with the surrounding sea turned to stone. However, the worst is yet to come as the ash cloud rises and covers the sun, causing the seasons to fail.

In 1816, the novel shifts to Switzerland, where Mary Shelley finds dark inspiration amidst the unseasonable weather. Thousands of famine refugees stream past her door, and she is deeply affected by the suffering of the people. In Vermont, preacher Charles Whitlock begs his followers to keep faith as drought dries their wells and their livestock starve. In Suffolk, painter John Constable struggles to reconcile the idyllic England he paints with the misery that surrounds him. In the Fens, farm labourer Sarah Hobbs has had enough of going hungry while the farmers flaunt their wealth.

Meanwhile, Hope Peter, returned from the Napoleonic wars, finds his family home demolished and a fence gone up in its place. He flees to London, where he falls in with a group of revolutionaries who speak of a better life, whatever the cost. As desperation sets in, Britain becomes beset by riots - rebellion is in the air.

The Year Without Summer is a story that encompasses the books written, the art made, the journeys taken, and the love long. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of art to transcend the challenges of history. The novel is filled with vivid characters, each with their own unique struggles and motivations. The reader is transported to different periods and locations, experiencing the joys and sorrows of the characters as they navigate the tumultuous times of the past.

The writing in The Year Without Summer is masterful, with a keen attention to detail and a deep understanding of the human condition. The author has created a vivid and immersive world that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The characters are well-developed, with their flaws and strengths making them relatable and memorable. The historical context of the novel is meticulously researched, and the author has done a great job of capturing the essence of the period without resorting to clichés or stereotypes.

One of the standout aspects of the novel is its ability to blend historical fiction with elements of romance and adventure. The love stories between the characters are tender and heartfelt, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The adventure elements, meanwhile, provide a thrilling and suspenseful backdrop to the story, keeping the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat.

Overall, The Year Without Summer is a remarkable achievement in historical fiction. It is a book that will captivate readers with its vivid storytelling, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes. It is a testament to the power of literature to transport us to different times and places, and to inspire us to think deeply about the world around us. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a compelling and engaging read, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781473672338