The Heart of Winter

Despite a fiercely independent heroine and a fascinating pantheon of gods, Kinsella (The Flame and the Flood) underwhelms in this languid retelling of the origin story of the Irish goddess Brigit. When starvation threatens Brigit’s village, the elders bring their plight to Aengus, the god of summer. In return for blessing the village with mild weather, Aengus demands a bride—and he has his sights set on Brigit after witnessing her perform a heroic act. The agreement is made without Brigit’s consent. Rather than accept her fate, she seeks the help of the Cailleach, the Queen of Winter. As Brigit’s life becomes increasingly intwined with the two opposing deities, she finds herself changing as well. With the help of Nicnevin, Queen of Witches, and other members of the Tuatha Dè Danann pantheon, Brigit, the Cailleach, and Aengus work toward a solution that will maintain a balance between the seasons, grant Brigit some measure of freedom, and still fulfill the parameters of the elders’ bargain. Though Brigit is an admirable protagonist, Kinsella’s telling feels stiff and somewhat simplistic. Die-hard fans of remixed mythology may find something to enjoy, but others will be disappointed. (Apr.)