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Nicolo is the second son of a Genoese merchant family. His older brother does the main traveling and deal-making for the family. However, Nicolo's luck may finally allow him to begin chasing his ambition. The church in Rome has tasked him and a naïve, intellectual monk named Mauro with an important task. Not only are they trying to reunite the church in Rome with that in Constantinople, but they are also seeking to find the fabled Presbyter John, a supposed Christian King in the Far East willing to help with the Crusades. More important to Nicolo, he will have the church's permission to be the primary trader for any new goods they find on their travels. Still, the inexperience of both men will be tested as they face hostile factions, assassins, and political intrigue.
Cycon's book is the first in a series about medieval travelers trying to unlock the secrets of the East. The writing is polished and professional, and Cycon has done the necessary research to bring these exotic locations and cultures alive with vivid sights and scents. Both the main characters are likable and flawed, and it will be interesting to see how they grow throughout the series. The book also has a wide variety of secondary characters with their own interesting stories and personalities. There are a few moments in the narrative where the humor seems misplaced. However, the story is compelling and captivating. The book blends the traditional quest story with historical fiction in a manner that should help it reach a broad audience.
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