Author(s): Kay, Guy Gavriel,
Binding: Paperback,
Date of Publication: 23/01/2020,
Pagination: 448 pages,
Series: N/A,
Imprint: Hodder Paperback,
Published By: Hodder & Stoughton,
Book Classification: War & combat fiction, Fantasy, Historical fiction
ISBN13\EAN\SKU: 9781473692374
Description: 

Internationally bestselling author Guy Gavriel Kay's latest work is set in a world evoking early Renaissance Italy, with an extraordinary cast of characters.

In a chamber overlooking the nighttime waterways of a maritime city, a man looks back on his youth and the people who shaped his life. Danio Cerra's intelligence won him entry to a renowned school, though he was only the son of a tailor.

He took service at the court of a ruling count - and soon learned why that man was known as The Beast. Danio's fate changed the moment he recognized Adria Ripoli as she entered the count's chambers one night - intending to kill. Born to power, Adria had chosen a life of danger - and freedom - instead.

Other vivid figures share the story: a healer determined to defy her expected lot; a charming, frivolous son of immense wealth; a religious leader more decadent than devout; and, affecting these lives and many more, two mercenary commanders, whose rivalry puts a world in the balance.