Skip to Content

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah is a captivating and deeply moving novel that intertwines the complexities of family relationships with the haunting legacy of World War II.

The story follows sisters Meredith and Nina as they uncover their mother Anya’s mysterious and heartbreaking past in war-torn Leningrad, revealing shocking truths that reshape their understanding of her and themselves.

Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

Genre: General Fiction

Author: Kristin Hannah

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2010

Book Blurb

Meredith and Nina Whitson are as different as sisters can be. One stayed at home to raise her children and manage the family apple orchard; the other followed a dream and travelled the world to become a famous photojournalist. But when their beloved father falls ill, Meredith and Nina find themselves together again, standing alongside their cold, disapproving mother, Anya, who even now, offers no comfort to her daughters.

As children, the only connection between them was the Russian fairy tale Anya sometimes told the girls at night. On his deathbed, their father extracts a promise from the women in his life: the fairy tale will be told one last time―and all the way to the end.

Thus begins an unexpected journey into the truth of Anya’s life in war-torn Leningrad, more than five decades ago. Alternating between the past and present, Meredith and Nina will finally hear the singular, harrowing story of their mother’s life, and what they learn is a secret so terrible and terrifying that it will shake the very foundation of their family and change who they believe they are.

About the Author

Kristin Hannah is a popular American author known for writing books that really tug at the heartstrings. Her novels often focus on themes like family, love, and survival, with strong, memorable characters, especially women. She’s best known for The Nightingale, a hugely successful book about two sisters in World War II France, which has been loved by readers all over the world.

Hannah writes a mix of historical fiction and contemporary stories, and she’s really brings her settings and characters to life. Her books often end up on the New York Times bestseller list, and she’s won several awards for her writing, including the Golden Heart and RITA awards. If you’re looking for stories that are both moving and immersive, Kristin Hannah’s books are a great choice.

This book is featured on the following list:

Related Books