One of our foremost writers of naval fiction.

As always with Eco, there is much to admire

A beautiful evocation of a difficult period of Italian history, full of the flair and erudition for which we love Eco

Genuinely clever...the writing, the quotes and the pictures often tickle the brain

Witty, playful, and incorrigibly erudite, Eco clearly had fun writing this book. There is much to enjoy

Another great exhilaration from Eco. Eye-poppingly fascinating

Perhaps the most intellectual novelist in Europe today. A highly idiosyncratic by engrossing novel

Profound and moving. A wonderful entertainer

Engaging

The opening is delightful, the sort of stuff that has readers rubbing their hands in anticipation...it is good to see Eco recapture something of his former glories, bouncing ideas of his readers with characteristic zest

Stimulating