Frog Music Summary & Key Insights

Emma Donoghue's "Frog Music" is a historical mystery novel set in 1870s San Francisco, revolving around the unlikely friendship between two women and the murder that unravels their lives. The story centers on Jenny, a spirited, independent Irish immigrant working as a prostitute, and her unlikely friend, Leonora, a wealthy, musically gifted woman with a mysterious past. Their bond, seemingly forged through a shared love for their pet frog and a mutual need for companionship, is shattered by the murder of a Chinese immigrant named Song, a man both women knew.

The narrative unfolds through interwoven timelines, showcasing the events leading up to Song's death and the subsequent investigation. Jenny, a perceptive and resourceful woman, finds herself caught in a web of suspicion, forced to navigate the prejudices and dangers of the city's underbelly. Her resourcefulness is partly born out of necessity, honed through years of surviving on the fringes of society. Leonora, initially portrayed as detached and enigmatic, gradually reveals her own vulnerabilities and hidden secrets as the investigation progresses. Her social standing and connections within San Francisco's elite community offer a stark contrast to Jenny's marginalized existence, but both women share a desire for independence that clashes with societal expectations.

The investigation itself is a slow burn, revealing layers of corruption and exploitation within San Francisco's diverse population. The murder of Song exposes the deep-seated racism and xenophobia prevalent at the time, particularly against the Chinese community, who faced widespread discrimination and violence. The police investigation, led by Inspector Jevons, is initially hamstrung by this bias and by their unwillingness to delve into the city's darker corners. He is a flawed but ultimately fair character who eventually begins to see beyond the prejudices that cloud his investigation.

Jenny's own investigation, driven by her loyalty to Leonora and a sense of justice, leads her into the city's hidden alleys and opium dens, forcing her to confront the dangers of her own profession and the exploitative nature of the power structures around her. As the plot thickens, the connection between Song, Leonora, and Jenny becomes clearer, revealing a complex network of secrets and hidden relationships. The truth about Song's death, when revealed, isn't a simple solution, instead showing a more nuanced understanding of the social complexities and personal motivations at play.

Ultimately, "Frog Music" is a story about friendship, betrayal, and survival against a backdrop of social injustice. It examines the lives of marginalized women in a patriarchal society, highlighting their resilience, agency, and capacity for profound connection amidst adversity. The overarching themes of class disparity, xenophobia, and the search for identity underpin the mystery, creating a rich and compelling narrative.