The English Spy

About the Book: 

He was a spy among us, but not known as such, otherwise the mob of Edinburgh would pull him to pieces. JOHN CLERK OF PENICUIK

Union between England and Scotland hangs in the balance. Propagandist, spy and novelist-to-be Daniel Defoe is caught up in the murky essence of eighteenth century Edinburgh - cobblestones, courtesans and kirkyards. Expecting a godly society in the capital of Presbyterianism, Defoe engages with a beautiful Jacobite agent, and uncovers a nest of vipers.

Reviews: 

Delves into the City of Literature, and comes out dark side up. MARC LAMBERT

Donald Smith's is a voice we need to hear in Scotland... His deep knowledge of history, myth, story, religion, landscape and literature means that he has much real richness to draw on. TESSA RANSFORD

Subtly crafted... and a rattling good yarn. STEWART CONN, EDINBURGH'S INAUGURAL MAKAR

About the Author:

DONALD SMITH is a renowned storyteller, founding Director of the Scottish Storytelling Centre, and an experienced playwright and theatre producer. He was also a founding Director of the National Theatre of Scotland, for which he campaigned over a decade. Born in Glasgow of Irish parentage, Donald Smith was brought up in Scotland, immersed in its artistic and cultural life. Smith’s non-fiction includes Storytelling Scotland: A Nation in Narrative, God, the Poet and the Devil: Robert Burns and Religion and Arthur’s Seat: Journeys and Evocations, co-authored with Stuart McHardy. His Freedom and Faithprovides an insightful longterm perspective on the ongoing Independence debate, while Pilgrim Guide to Scotland recovers the nation’s sacred geography. Donald Smith is currently Director of Tracs (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland), based at the Storytelling Centre.