The Winter List

In the summer of 1660, England stands at a pivotal crossroads following the death of Oliver Cromwell and the restoration of Charles II. Amidst this turbulent backdrop, a chilling Winter List emerges—a roster created to hunt down those implicated in the execution of Charles I. At the centre of this historical drama is Damian Seeker, a steadfast Republican who finds himself unjustly included amongst the regicides despite not having participated in the king's death.

As Seeker has sought refuge beyond England's borders, his daughter, Manon, remains in York with her husband, Lawrence Ingolby, a dedicated lawyer. The narrative deepens when Lady Anne Winter, a cunning Royalist spy, is assigned the perilous task of uncovering the truth behind the individuals on the Winter List. Her mission intertwines with the fates of Seeker's family, as she seeks to discern guilt from innocence in a world where loyalties shift like the seasons.

Themes

• Justice and Injustice: The quest for truth amid political turmoil raises questions about morality and accountability.
• Family and Loyalty: The bonds between father and daughter and the sacrifices they must confront resonate throughout the story.
• Identity and Belonging: Characters grapple with their loyalties to a divided nation and their personal convictions.

With its rich historical detail and complex characterisation, The Winter List echoes the style of other notable works exploring the intricacies of loyalty and betrayal in times of political upheaval. Readers who appreciated S.G. MacLean's previous novels or similar historical thrillers will find themselves engrossed in this tale of intrigue and survival.