Memoirs of a Byzantine Eunuch: Original Fiction in Paperback - Softcover

Harris, Christopher

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1903517036 ISBN 13: 9781903517031

Publisher: Dedalus Limited, 2003

Synopsis

Captured and castrated as a boy, Zeno is sold into slavery in Constantinople. Bought by the greatest scholar of the age, he is soon drawn into a labyrinth of sex, heresy, murder and intrigue. Though the empire is threatened by a heretic uprising and a barbarian invasion, its rulers think only of themselves. In the cruel and glittering city of Constantinople, a ruthless general, a bisexual boy-emperor, a worldly patriarch, a peasant usurper and a half-Viking empress all vie for power. Unknown to them, the real power lies elsewhere, among the devious and decadent eunuchs of the palace. Zeno conspires, deceives, manipulates and murders, his divided loyalties leading him deeper into danger until he is forced to betray those he loves.

About this title

About the Author:

Christopher Harris is an American fiction writer who is fond of dogs and has red hair. Harris attended Cornell University and lives in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Review:

"While writing a good yarn, he also treats us to the clear presentation of the ideas of Aristotle, Plato and long-forgotten philosophers--combined with observations about the development of Christian orthodoxy and the exotic nature of the castrated, or eunuchs. Amazing."

"If there is such a thing an archetypal Dedalus novel, then this is surely it. ...the decadent ambience, well-researched historical background and racy literary style define this small (but perfectly formed) publishing house. Harris paints a very convincing picture of a place and time not often portrayed in fiction. If you are looking for something a bit different, or just a jolly good read, I can recommend this one."

"Harris clearly knows his stuff, and serves up a delightful mix of political intrigue, personal ambition and amoral, polysexual behaviour."

About this edition

• Publisher: Dedalus Limited
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 1903517036
• ISBN 13: 9781903517031
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 358