Alfred Sirven's O Romance d'uma cantora pulls you right into the gaslit glamour and grit of 19th-century Lisbon. It’s a story that starts with a shocking end: the death of the beloved singer, Inês de Castro.

The Story

The novel opens on the night of Inês's greatest success. The applause has faded, and she is found alone, having taken her own life—or so it seems. The official verdict is swift. But our protagonist, a journalist named Artur, was in the audience that night. He saw the pure joy on Inês's face and can't believe she would do this. Driven by a mix of professional instinct and personal fascination, he begins his own investigation.

Artur's search leads him through all layers of Lisbon society. He talks to jealous rivals in the opera company, powerful patrons who admired Inês a little too much, and old friends who hint at a past she tried to leave behind. Every interview reveals a new piece of the puzzle and a new possible motive. Was it a crime of passion? A desperate act of revenge? Or something far more calculated? The truth is buried under layers of performance, both on and off the stage.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me wasn't just the 'whodunit'—it was the 'who was she?' Sirven makes Inês a vivid presence, even after her death. Through Artur's discoveries and the memories of those who knew her, we see a complex woman: ambitious, talented, and trapped by the expectations of her world. The book is a sharp look at fame and how it makes people into public property.

Artur is a great guide, too. He’s not a superhero detective; he’s just a stubborn guy with a notebook, making mistakes and getting in over his head. His journey makes you feel like you're solving the mystery right alongside him. Sirven's Lisbon is also a character itself, from the opulent theaters to the foggy docks, feeling alive and full of secrets.

Final Verdict

This book is a fantastic find for anyone who loves historical mysteries with heart. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy a slower-burn investigation rich with period detail, or for fans of authors like Sarah Waters or Carlos Ruiz Zafón, who build mysteries around atmospheric settings. It’s more than a simple puzzle; it’s a poignant look at the price of art and the shadows behind the spotlight. A captivating, forgotten story that deserves a new audience.