Found: fiction Female lead missing or dead father

I read this book way back in 2008, I remember the cover had a brown color scheme and had a young woman in a white dress, possibly of regency style. Her father had left a gold (or brass) astrolabe (or globe) in the attic, and I believe the book ended with a cliffhanger where the instrument opened and she (and her partner, male) found something inside.

I very specifically remember a scene where the male's friend was wandering around the town (london?) and came across a large tent for performances. When he went inside, he watched a performance that started with a pale face floating in blackness, singing. What followed was a play where the pale face represented the moon, and was being chased down by what may have been the sun, until they were finally killed. The performance ended with the same pale face appearing from the blackness and singing, possibly symbolizing rebirth.

If there is anyone who remembers this book, I am begging for help, this has been driving me crazy for years.

The Magicians and Mrs Quent by Galen Beckett

>2 juels: I might have to marry you now. You're amazing, thank you so much!!!!

Childrens book from early eighties. Two orphan kids go to live with recovering alcoholic uncle---his lady friend is discovered dead next to wild pyracantha-one of the boys calls it "wild pirate canner " uncle takes off and leaves boys alone to fend for themselves in the woods.

You're welcome.

>4 bouqyac1: I already answered your query over in your post here.