Andrew Miller Wins 2011 Costa Book of the Year

Posted on January 24, 2012

Andrew Miller has won the 2011 Costa Book of the Year for his novel, Pure. The UK book award carries a $47,000 cash prize.

Pure is Miller's sixth novel. Set in pre-revolutionary Paris in 1785, Pure tells the story of Jean-Baptiste Baratte, an ambitious young engineer, who is assigned the task of emptying the overflowing Parisian cemetery Les Innocents, and demolishing its church.

The judges describe Pure as a "structurally and stylistically flawless historical novel, this book is a gripping story, beautifully written and emotionally satisfying."

Reuters reports that there was bitter dissent among the judges and a "fierce debate." Some of the judges in the eight-member panel felt the prize should have gone to Now All Roads Lead to France by Matthew Holli.

Costa also announced that it will expand its awards in 2012 to include a short story award. Details about the new competition will be announced later this year.