Venice 1407. The city is at the height of its powers. In theory Duke Marco commands but Marco is a simpleton so his aunt & uncle rule in his stead. They seem all powerful yet live in fear of assassins better than their own. On the night their world changes Marcos young cousin prays in the family chapel for deliverance from a forced marriage. It is her misfortune to be alone when Mamluk pirates break in to abduct her
- an act that will ultimately trigger war. Elsewhere Atilo the Dukes chief assassin cuts a mans throat. Hearing a noise he turns back to find a boy drinking from the victims wound. The speed with which the angel-faced boy dodges his dagger & scales a wall stuns Atilo. He knows then he must hunt him. Not to kill him but because hes finally found what he thought was impossible
- someone fit to be his apprentice. Award-winning author Jon Courtenay Grimwood is a master storyteller. Here he blends history politics & dark fantasy in a compelling vision of an alternative Venice.