by PipVaughan-Hughes (Author)
Who will own the greatest treasures of all...? 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, untouchable treasures beyond earthly price. 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 of 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. Stretching from the streets of London to the brothels of Venice and all the way to ruined palaces of Constantinople, THE VAULT OF BONES is an epic tale of faith, power, money and revenge.
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 400
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: Orion
Published: 25 Jul 2007
ISBN 10: 0752868632
ISBN 13: 9780752868639
Book Overview: Good quality historical fiction is still dominating the charts - and Pip is one of the most original and compelling voices around. This new novel is epic in scope. It is a huge slice of medieval adventure on the same scale as PILLARS OF THE EARTH Pip blends epic scope and adventure with real humanity and verve. Pip is young, British and incredibly personable - very promotable indeed. Praise for RELICS: 'A monk, a corpse, a sinister Templar and a terrific adventure. A great read!' Bernard Cornwell 'An impressive debut, with vivid period atmosphere, colourful personalities and stirring action.' Sunday Telegraph