'This is grown-up fantasy blessed with humour, intelligence and... panache. A bravura display of intricate storytelling and artfully-doled-out revelations.' - SFX<BR><BR>'A richly textured and emotionally complex fantasy...Highly recommended.' - Library Journal (Starred Review)<BR><BR>The engineer Ziani Vaatzes designed and built a war. Thousands died as a consequence of his elaborate plan.<BR><BR>The civil servant Manuo Psellus took the decision that started the war. The very foundations of his world are now threatened.<BR><BR>The ruler Duke Valens brought the war on himself. Now he must decide whether to sacrifice his country to save his people.<BR><BR>They embarked on the war for their own reasons, but as it takes on a life of its own they find they've become components in their own machine. And the machine, it seems, has one purpose: to render evil for evil.<BR><BR>The follow-up to Devices and Desires continues to push the boundaries of fantasy fiction in a fast-moving mix of politics, action and intelligent world-building.<BR><BR>Books by K.J. Parker:<BR><BR>Fencer Trilogy<BR>The Colours in the Steel<BR>The Belly of the Bow<BR>The Proof House<BR><BR>Scavenger Trilogy<BR>Shadow<BR>Pattern<BR>Memory<BR><BR>Engineer Trilogy<BR>Devices and Desires<BR>Evil for Evil<BR>The Escapement<BR><BR>Saloninus<BR>Blue and Gold<BR>The Devil You Know<BR><BR>Two of Swords<BR>The Two of Swords: Part 1<BR>The Two of Swords: Part 2<BR>The Two of Swords: Part 3<BR><BR>Novels<BR>The Company<BR>The Folding Knife<BR>The Hammer<BR>Sharps<BR>Savages<BR>Sixteen Ways to Defend a Walled City<BR>My Beautiful Life