Changes

|title=Mesmerized

|author=Alissa Walser and Jamie Bulloch (translator)

|publisher=MacLehose Press

|date=June 2012

|summary=A stylistically narrated novel based on historic events surrounding 18th century scientist, eccentric and fascinating oddity, Franz Anton Mesmer. As 21st century readers view it from a position of knowledge, the ideas and 'medical' treatments seem a little left field but that just adds charm and novelty.

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Celebrated scientist (at least in his own mind) Franz Anton Mesmer is called upon to cure the blindness of 18 year old piano virtuoso and courtier's daughter Marie Theresia Paradis. Despite the unease of her parents, Mesmer installs Marie into his 'magnetic hospital' where, alongside his other patients, she settles in to a regime of treatment, including free access to Mesmer's beloved piano. Mesmer is the Paradis' last resort and so they're happy to pay for success but they come to realise that the final cost may not be entirely financial and he realises that the result may not be beneficial to all parties.