A remarkable début written by a former top-level international competitive fencer and set in a world of passion and personal sacrifice that few outsiders ever experience.

Francis is a heartless shell of a man. Attractive, intelligent, cultured and independently wealthy, he seems to have it all, yet he struggles to find meaning and happiness in life. Emotionally damaged by his father, a cold and ruthless fencing fanatic determined that Francis and his older brother will be crowned world champions, Francis’ real ambition in life was to become a concert pianist. A true calling that shall never be realised due to the damage that years of fencing inflicted to his hand.

When his all-consuming hatred leads him to the fencing world championship, he must finally confront his father and his vindictive brother and come to terms with the person that he has become.