Lighthouse First Novel In The St Simons Trilogy Eugenia Price
Introduction
Eugenia Price was an American author who wrote historical novels set in the American South. One of her most popular works is the St. Simons Trilogy, which consists of three novels: Lighthouse, New Moon Rising, and Beloved Invader. Lighthouse, the first novel in the trilogy, was published in 1969 and was a bestseller. The novel is set on St. Simons Island in Georgia and tells the story of a family and their struggles during the Civil War.
Plot Summary
Lighthouse tells the story of the Gould family, who live on St. Simons Island in Georgia. The novel is set during the Civil War and follows the family's struggles as they try to survive and protect their home. The patriarch of the family, James Gould, is a successful businessman who owns a shipping company. He is a staunch supporter of the Confederacy and believes that the South will win the war.
However, as the war drags on and the Union army begins to gain ground, James realizes that the Confederacy may not win. He becomes increasingly concerned about the safety of his family and his business. His wife, Ludmilla, is also worried about their safety, but she is more focused on the well-being of their children.
Their son, Andy, is a soldier in the Confederate army and is stationed on the island. He is in love with a local girl, Barbara, but their relationship is complicated by the war. Their daughter, Margaret, is engaged to a Union soldier, Sam. Margaret is torn between her loyalty to her family and her love for Sam.
As the war comes to a close, the Gould family must come to terms with the changes that have occurred. They must rebuild their lives and their community in the aftermath of the war.
Themes
One of the main themes of Lighthouse is the impact of the Civil War on individuals and families. The novel explores the struggles and hardships faced by those who lived through the war, and how it affected their lives and relationships. Another theme is the importance of family and community, and how they can provide support and strength during difficult times.
The novel also touches on themes of love and loyalty, and how they can be tested in times of war. The relationship between Andy and Barbara, as well as Margaret and Sam, highlight these themes. The novel also explores the concept of home and what it means to different people.
Writing Style
Eugenia Price's writing style is known for its descriptive and lyrical quality. She paints vivid pictures of the setting and characters, bringing them to life for the reader. Her prose is elegant and reflective, with a focus on character development and relationships.
Price's writing is also notable for its historical accuracy. She extensively researched the time period and setting of her novels, and incorporated real events and people into her stories. This attention to detail adds a level of authenticity to her work.
Reception
Lighthouse was a commercial success upon its release, and has remained popular over the years. It was a bestseller and received positive reviews from critics. The novel's success helped launch Price's career as a popular historical fiction author.
Conclusion
Lighthouse, the first novel in the St. Simons Trilogy by Eugenia Price, is a compelling and emotional story of family, love, and survival during the Civil War. Price's beautiful writing and attention to historical detail make the novel a must-read for fans of historical fiction.