Description

In 1629, young English lutenist Peter Claire arrives at the Danish court believing music will secure his future. Instead, he enters a world shaped by suspicion, rivalry and royal power.

Set in Denmark and in the shadow of the Thirty Years’ War, Music & Silence follows Peter as he joins King Christian IV’s royal orchestra at Rosenborg Castle. The musicians perform in a freezing cellar beneath the splendour of the court, a stark contrast to the glittering chambers above. Yet although he is favoured by the King and nicknamed his “Angel”, Peter is drawn into a forbidden love affair with Emilia Tilsen, companion to the King’s estranged wife, Kirsten Munk – and further into court intrigue.

As King Christian’s authority weakens, loyalties fracture. Letters are intercepted, alliances shift, and both Emilia and Peter are threatened with a separation that might extinguish their fragile happiness.

Moving between Copenhagen, Norway and Jutland, Music & Silence tells a story of ambition, political manoeuvring and love tested by exile.

‘The best thing from Denmark since Hamlet.’ John Julius Norwich
‘The best historical novelist of her generation… an unforgettable tapestry of Eros and art.’ A. N. Wilson

Publisher Review

The best thing from Denmark since Hamlet. * John Julius Norwich * A magnificent novel... a brilliant book which will repay many readings * The Times * She is the best historical novelist of her generation. She evokes the past with sensuality, wit and superb sleights of hand... The plot is ingenious...an unforgettable tapestry of Eros and of art -- A. N. Wilson Tremain's achievement in Music & Silence is extraordinary ... A narrative as funny as it is compelling * Daily Telegraph * Tremain weaves her web of stories with great visual flair and emotional acuity: This is a fabulous cacophony of passion and despair * Metro *