The Dance Tree

In The Dance Tree, a mysterious dancing plague grips Strasbourg, revealing family secrets and forbidden love amidst a backdrop of societal upheaval.

Set against the backdrop of Strasbourg in 1518, The Dance Tree unfolds during a sweltering summer when a solitary woman begins to dance fervently in the city square. Her relentless movements attract the attention of onlookers, and soon, she is joined by hundreds of others, leading to a citywide emergency. The authorities, baffled and alarmed by this inexplicable phenomenon, decide to intervene by bringing in musicians in an attempt to drive the 'Devil' out of the dancers. This unusual event unravels a tapestry of social chaos and supernatural fear, reflecting the era's deep-seated superstitions.

Amidst this turmoil, we meet Lisbet, a pregnant woman living on the outskirts of the city with her husband and mother-in-law, tending to their bees. As the dancing plague escalates, Lisbet's life takes a dramatic turn with the unexpected return of her sister-in-law, Nethe, who has spent seven years in penance for an undisclosed crime. Lisbet is determined to uncover the truth behind Nethe's past, which intertwines with the city's escalating hysteria.

The Dance Tree is a poignant exploration of family bonds, hidden desires, and the lengths to which women will go when pushed to their limits. As Lisbet navigates a world filled with secrets and peril, she finds herself dancing to a tune that could lead to her own undoing. This novel, inspired by true events, captures the essence of a time rife with change and emotional intensity.