
A rain‑soaked autumn afternoon sets the stage in a low‑arched, oak‑floored room where an aging clergyman and a poised, middle‑aged lady converse by the glow of a crackling fire. Their discussion drifts from the unsettling news of Lord Strafford’s execution to the broader turbulence shaking both church and kingdom, hinting at a world on the brink of upheaval. The vivid description of the damp garden, the lingering scent of honeysuckle, and the solemn faces of the two interlocutors creates an intimate atmosphere that invites listeners into a period of moral and political tension.
Beyond this opening, the story unfurls through a tapestry of characters—Dorothy, Richard, witches, marquises, and mystics—each drawn into tangled webs of love, war, and secret enchantments. As alliances shift and hidden motives emerge, the narrative promises a blend of historical intrigue and subtle supernatural elements, guiding the audience through a richly imagined landscape where personal vows clash with the demands of a restless age.
Language
en
Duration
~15 hours (894K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2004-05-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1824–1905
A Scottish writer, poet, and preacher, he helped shape modern fantasy long before the genre had a name. His stories of wonder and spiritual searching went on to influence writers including C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien.
View all books