Winter Solstice

by Lucy Costigan

Marion Nielson’s dream of a lifetime is finally within her grasp. At dawn she will be admitted to Newgrange, the five thousand year old mound in the heart of Ireland, which is illuminated with the sun’s rays just once a year—on the winter solstice. While awaiting entry to the cairn, Marion reviews her tempestuous relationship with the enigmatic Peter, their gradual shift from friendship to explosive love, the ecstatic sex, Peter's gradual slump into hopelessness and depression, the bewildering feelings of rejection, and finally their heart-wrenching separation. Winter Solstice explores the agonies and the ecstasies of loving and living, and the individual’s attempt to cope with the ensuing chaos. This novel is a rich portrayal of love and relationships, loss and healing, and offers readers deep insight into ancient Celtic traditions of spirituality and rebirth.

Paperback

First published March 1, 2003

About the author

Lucy Costigan is an Irish author. ‘Strangest Genius: The Stained Glass of Harry Clarke’, (with photographer Michael Cullen), was shortlisted for Best Irish-Published Book in 2010 by the Irish Book Awards, and for Book of the Decade by Dublin Book Festival in 2016.

In 2012, Lucy's biography, ‘Glenveagh Mystery’ about the Harvard professor, Arthur Kingsley Porter, who mysteriously disappeared from Co. Donegal in 1933, became a national bestseller.

Lucy’s working life has been quite eclectic and includes careers in technical writing, counselling and social care. She holds Master’s Degrees in Research and Equality Studies.

Lucy's most recent book is 'Bouquet of White Roses: Quest for truth about Aunt Sue and Me', published by Enlighten Publishing, 2020 (www.enlightenpublishing.com).

Lucy lives in Wexford Town with her partner, Tony, and their border collie, Ivan.

Reviews

[theresa cullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this novel, especially the scene where the main character gets into Newgrange on the morning of the solstice and describes all that takes place inside the five thousand year old site. It's full of nuggets of spiritual wisdom, particularly how to survive the loss of a man the main character loved but finally had to face his flaws, warts and all. Highly recommended for a lovely read around the Winter Solstice or anytime you want a novel of real depth.

[Mike Cullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contemporary novel with a timeless backdrop of Newgrange, Co. Meath on the winter solstice. There are some great characters here, from Marion the heroine to Brendan the archeologist. Well recommended.