In the darkness of 13th century Europe, the most precious wonders of the Christian world lie in a small church in the great ruined city of Constantinople, the spoils of a failed Crusade. The crown of thorns, the spear that pierced Jesus' side, the shroud bearing the imprint of Christ - all lie in the mysterious Chapel of Pharos. On the other side of the globe, Petroc of Auneford sails into the sprawling Pool of London for the first time. He has left his old monastic world behind for that of the enigmatic Captain de Montalhac - purveyor of fine relics and other exotic trinkets to anyone with sufficient money and desire. But for Petroc, the trip is soon blighted by tragedy. Grief, however, is no guard against greed and with rumours of the sale and the relics of Pharos growing, the Captain needs Petroc's help. The great powers of Christendom are gathering - all covet the power of the relics - and Petroc finds himself right in the eye of the storm.

Author Biography

Pip Vaughan-Hughes grew up in South Devon. He studied Medieval History at London University and later worked as a reader for a literary agency when he wasn't dabbling as a bike messenger, saxaphonist, food critic, gardener and restaurant owner. He now lives in Vermont with his wife and daughter. Previous titles: Relics (Bfmt Mar 07, TPB Jun 06)