It is 1498, and the whole of Venice is abuzz. Hidden somewhere in the labyrinthine city is an ancient book, rumoured to contain thorny heresies and secrets of immeasurable power.
Luciano, a penniless orphan, has been plucked from the street and taken on as apprentice to the chef at the doge's palace. While learning the alchemy of cooking, he quickly finds himself entangled in the search for the ancient tome, even suspecting the chef, his maestro, may be concealing information.
But lurking in the wings are some of the most powerful, dangerous men in Venice, and Luciano's secret will lead him through a dangerous maze to the centre of an intrigue that will test his deepest desires and loyalties.
Knowledge through food.
Venice shows all its facets in this book. There is the vivid colour and clamour of the markets, the rich smells of the kitchens, the stink of life on the streets, and the overwhelming presence of those in power. A good read with some rich descriptions of food.
Amanda, 11/12/2008
