The Winter of our Lives

She was the only human being down at the lake. Elbows, in need of a slather of moisturiser, pointed at the clouds; breasts, lifted to pre-children perkiness; baby belly stretched and flattened. She stretched her arms out wide as she started to walk barefoot into the lake. Peering down into the clear water, she pulled down her goggles. It was time to plunge forwards, succumbing to the embrace of the water.

It was as if she were flying.

Since the breakdown of her marriage, Stevie has found freedom and empowerment in cold water swimming. But now she must decide if she is brave enough to take the plunge and open her heart.

Holly feels that time (and gravity) haven’t been kind to her body. Does her husband Simon feel the same, and is he having an affair as she suspects?

Angela sacrificed so much when she became the wife of a farmer – swapping independence for gruelling days and silent nights. Her only moments of peace come when she is in the water.

The three friends must learn to embrace themselves, just as they embrace the waters of the Lake District, and take charge of their own happiness.