Master Of Stair

The Master of Stair

In 'The Master of Stair,' Marjorie Bowen weaves a tapestry of brooding Gothic sensibility against a backdrop of historical tragedy, set during the tumultuous years following the Glorious Revolution. The narrative, dark and atmospheric, centers on the notorious 1689 Massacre of Glencoe, delving deeply into the psyche of Sir John Dalrymple, a character depicted with chilling effect as an aristocratic sociopath. Bowen's literary style is rich and evocative, situating the novel firmly within the realm of historical fiction while exploring the complexities of evil and the repercussions of a haunted lineage. The subtleties of the hinted family curse lend further nuance to the tale, creating an air of mystery that permeates the story. Marjorie Bowen, a consummate storyteller acclaimed for her historical novels, possesses an uncanny ability to bring to life the darker corridors of the past. Her interest in the macabre and the psychologically profound finds perfect expression in this novel. Drawing upon extensive research and an astute understanding of the human condition, Bowen's portrayal of Dalrymple as a tormented soul entwined in the brutality of his times provides a compelling look at the underbelly of nobility and its treacherous schemes. 'The Master of Stair' is recommended for readers who seek a profound narrative that is both historically insightful and unsettlingly sinister. Bowen's sharp characterizations and the grim reality of political machinations make this novel an exemplary piece for admirers of historical fiction with a penchant for the gothic. The dark allure of the plot, combined with Bowen's masterful storytelling, ensures that this novel not only elucidates a grim chapter of history but also offers a timeless meditation on the nature of evil and the shadows cast by the sins of forebears.

The Master of Stair (Classic Reprint)

Excerpt from The Master of Stair Some fifty men were making slow progress through the pass of Glenorchy, which lies in the heart of Invernesshire and so in the very depths of the wild Highlands. A thick white mist hung over the landscape; it was the end of October and a raw and chilly day; the dull purple heather, disclosed now and then by the lifting vapor, the gaunt firs and faded bracken that grew along the pass, were shivering under the weight of dripping moisture. The men strained their eyes to pierce the drifting mist, and drew closer the damp tartans that showed they were of the Clan of Macdonald; they were all on foot: some led shaggy ponies on whose rough backs were strapped packages and what appeared to be the plunder of some great house, for the objects included silver and gilt cups and goblets tied together by the handles; and, slung across the saddle, handsome garments such as the Saxons wore, and guns of a make not often seen in a Highlander's hands. A drove of fine cattle were driven in the rear of the Macdonalds, and a man who was obviously the leader walked a few paces ahead of the others. He was distinguished from his followers by the faded laced cloth coat under his plaid, the pistols in his belt, and his high cowskin boots, the others being barefoot and wearing nothing but their tartans and rude garments of untanned leather. About the Publisher Forgotten Books publishes hundreds of thousands of rare and classic books. Find more at www.forgottenbooks.com This book is a reproduction of an important historical work. Forgotten Books uses state-of-the-art technology to digitally reconstruct the work, preserving the original format whilst repairing imperfections present in the aged copy. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in our edition. We do, however, repair the vast majority of imperfections successfully; any imperfections that remain are intentionally left to preserve the state of such historical works.

A Complete Collection of State Trials and Proceedings for High Treason and Other Crimes and Misdemeanors from the Earliest Period to the Year 1783