Publisher's Synopsis
Set in the Greek city-state of Prirene in 650 BC, this fascinating murder mystery opens with Bias, the protagonist, being stalked by a murderer at the sacred grounds of the Panionion, the religious and political centre of the Ionic League. As Bias crouches at the back of a cave, he recalls the events of the previous weeks which led him to his predicament. A minor priest, Bias assists at the opening of the Panionic Games by securing the blessing of Prirene's reigning deity, Poseidon. But while the games are being blessed, Prirene's best athlete is poisoned and dies in Bias's arms. The citizens perceive Bias to be infected by the 'miasma of death' and he is challenged with the responsibility of finding the killer. Told with wit and authentic period colour, this is an unusual mystery that readers will remember for its convincing plot and unique historic atmosphere.
