Love is Blind

Set at the end of the 19th century, this sweeping novel follows Brodie Moncur, a young Scottish musician ready to embark on a transformative journey. Escaping his oppressive clergyman father in Edinburgh, Brodie seizes an opportunity for a new life in Paris. There, a chance encounter with a renowned pianist alters his destiny and ignites a passionate, obsessive love affair with the beautiful Russian soprano, Lika Blum. As Brodie's love for Lika leads him across Europe—from Paris to St Petersburg and back to Edinburgh—he grapples with the tumultuous consequences of their relationship amid the sweeping changes of the era. This narrative weaves together themes of dizzying passion, brutal revenge, and the illusions of artistic endeavor, exploring the myriad possibilities life presents and the harsh realities that can abruptly alter one's path. The novel serves as both an intimate portrait of Brodie's life and a broader exploration of the dawn of the 20th century. It showcases the author's masterful storytelling, drawing readers into a world of emotional depth and historical richness. Critics have praised it as a remarkable return to form, highlighting its cleverness and emotional resonance.