A nobleman and his wife, an apothecary nun, an astronomer-mathematician, an inquisitor, a poet who is both lover and villain, a portraitist, a Queen and loyal servants deftly act out a beautiful drama of tantalizing relationships. They take up their roles in castle and convent, some surrounded by ornate interiors, garbed in velvets and silks, garlanded with precious jewels; while others abide in simple space devoid of art or representation, and dressed in plain linens and dull calicos. This is a wondrous tale, rendered in beautiful and erotic prose and poetry, stitched through with rich imagery, humour and tenderness. It is also a story of trade and exotic travel, both across the surface of the earth and among the stars.

Author Biography

Patricia Schonstein grew up in Zimbabwe and now lives in South Africa. Her first novel, the award-winning Skyline, was followed by the acclaimed A Time of Angels. She has a master's degree in creative writing from the University of Cape Town. For more information about Patricia Schonstein, visit www.afsun.co.za