
audiobook
by Bessie Dill
This ebook was created in honour of Distributed Proofreaders’ 25th Anniversary.
PREFACE
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER I
CHAPTER II
CHAPTER III
CHAPTER IV
CHAPTER V
CHAPTER VI
CHAPTER VII
The story unfolds through the penned recollections of Barbara, Lady Fleming, who recounts the turbulent years of 1715 from the perspective of her family circle. Set against the backdrop of the Jacobite rising, the narrative weaves real letters from the Erskine of Alva household into a vivid portrait of loyalty, fear, and intrigue. These documents, preserved by descendants, give listeners an intimate glimpse of daily life in the Scottish lowlands, from bustling market towns to the remote glens where silver mines glittered. The voice is unadorned yet evocative, allowing the listener to feel the weight of history without being overwhelmed by scholarly detail.
At the heart of the tale are young Barbara herself, her steadfast husband Sir Henry, and a cast of fellow Jacobites whose ambitions clash with the Crown's forces. Romantic entanglements and familial duties intertwine as the rebels grapple with secret meetings, whispered vows, and the ever‑present danger of betrayal. Through their eyes the listener experiences the tension of a nation divided, while also savoring moments of tenderness, humor, and the rugged beauty of the Scottish countryside.
Language
en
Duration
~10 hours (628K characters)
Release date
2025-10-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1861–1936

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