A world on fire - James Heneage

Their revolution would ignite a continent...

An epic novel set during one of the most savage and dramatic moments in European history.

Greece, 1824

In the wild south, the people of the Mani have risen up against four hundred years of Ottoman rule. But initial triumph leads to bitter feuding among the Greek victors and the Sultan sends his vassal, Ibrahim Pasha of Egypt, to invade. Burning everything in his path, he is on the point of victory. Only the intervention of the Great Powers of France, Russia and Britain can save Greece.

Hara, young daughter of a Maniot chief, is the fearless symbol of her people's spirit. When she rescues Greek Prince Tzanis from a shipwreck, on his way to deliver secret gold for the revolution, they fall in love but are forced apart by events.

Yet a shared resolve to wreak vengeance on Turkish rule unites them again, and their heroism and sacrifice will ultimately inspire an unlikely band of men and women to join them in rescuing Greece. Will their plan to involve the Great Powers succeed before Greece is destroyed by fire?

'Wonderful history, adventure and a heart-breaking love story are brought thrillingly to life' - Kate Mosse

James Heneage is the founder of the Ottakars chain of bookshops and the co-founder of the Chalke Valley History Festival. He has been fascinated by history, in particular Byzantine history, since a child. He now lives part of the year in the Peloponnese, where he has written much of his fiction to date. Otherwise he lives near Salisbury with his wife and family.

A dramatic read from the very outset
Simon Scarrow

A gripping, epic tale set against a broad and breath-taking canvas. Do not miss this compelling page-turner
Alison Weir

Wonderful history, adventure and a heart-breaking love story are brought thrillingly to life
Kate Mosse

A grand, sweeping drama of the finest kind, miss this excellent book at your peril
Ben Kane

Fascinating historical mysteries and vivid colourful characters. One hell of a fine book
Conn Iggulden

A stirring tale of the struggle for Byzantium, Heneage brings to life both the tragedy and the heroism
Tom Holland

A fast-moving and superbly intelligent adventure
Jason Goodwin

A compelling narrative of intrigue, love and war
The Bookseller

An electrifying historical novel
Good Book Guide

Fascinating
The Times