Book
Race of Scorpions
First published 1989
In 1462, Nicholas is drawn into the struggle between Charlotte of Cyprus and her half-brother James for control of the island. Both claimants want his money, soldiers and strategic skill, while Genoese, Venetian, Mamluk and papal interests compete around them. His attempt to profit without becoming captive to either side turns Cyprus into a test of loyalty, command and personal responsibility.
Cyprus gives Nicholas a problem that cannot be solved by commerce alone. Each claimant sees his resources as a means of winning the island, while outside powers treat the succession as part of their own Mediterranean strategy. Nicholas tries to preserve freedom of action, but wealth itself draws him deeper into the conflict and forces him to accept responsibility for choices he would prefer to describe as business.
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