The Silver Dial, Volume 1 (of 3)

A historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set in old Strassburg, it follows the gifted young mathematician Conrad Dasipodius as he takes on the rebuilding of the cathedral’s famed clock, while navigating class boundaries, civic pride, and a perilous secret. Around him orbit Sabina von Steinbach, the Burgomaster’s gentle daughter he loves; Otto von Steinbach, his vain rival; and Radegund von Steinbach, a brilliant, willful artist. Themes of ambition, love, jealousy, and the cost of genius drive this city tale of craft and conscience. The opening of the novel introduces Conrad’s rise under the mentorship of the Benedictine mechanist Chretei Herlin, the failure of Strassburg’s ancient cathedral clock, and the city’s contest to create a grand replacement. Though Herlin’s design is chosen, he soon appoints Conrad as his successor before dying, leaving the young man to lead the project. Meanwhile Conrad and Sabina fall quietly in love despite her father’s objections and Otto’s thwarted suit; they pledge to wait. Radegund’s celebrated painting hints at her fierce nature and interest in Conrad, and through the surgeon Bruno the reader learns of Conrad’s failing sight—a secret Radegund confronts him with at Herlin’s grave, driving him to despair as she vows to keep it hidden.