Why a Booktrail?
1791: A glorious romp through the filth, greed and duplicity of 18th century Edinburgh
Murder Ballad
What you need to know before your trail
Ballad singer Isobel Duguid and her friend, the famous castrato Clessidro, are stars of the Edinburgh Musical Society. Despite Isobel’s brash singing style, Clessidro’s friendship and her own shocking murder ballads keep her on stage and enjoying an opulent lifestyle in Auld Reekie.
Yet one night a note arrives from the mysterious Mrs Abercorn, regarding Isobel’s most notorious song, The Fiddler’s Wrath. It’s the tale of a prima donna who died of heartbreak after her husband committed murder and was sent to the gallows.
But as Isobel will discover, Mrs Abercorn’s curiosity is far more than just a fickle interest. As Isobel recounts rising through the social classes, her role in this ill-fated tune is brought to light, awakening the chilling retribution of a once-buried secret.
Locations
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Edinburgh
Well known for its musical and artistic heritage, Edinburgh is well evoked via its theatres and musical locations. You could almost sing your way around the city!
A trio of women musical composers are the focus of the story – of course in the music world at the time, male figures dominated.
We get to wander around the old town and the new and there is quite the contrast – through the cobbled streets, the alleyways, the smells and the atmosphere.
BookTrail Boarding Pass: Murder Ballad
Destination/location: Edinburgh Author/guide: Lucy Ribchester Departure Time: 1791
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