The Shadow of the Lion

In an alternate 1537, Venice is a powerful republic where magic thrives beneath a surface of political intrigue. Brothers Marco and Benito Valdosta, young thieves with little sense of the forces shaping their city, become caught in a struggle involving demonlord Chernobog, church inquisitors, mages, and princes. As a monster stalks the canals and factions fight for control, the brothers and their unlikely allies must help defend Venice. This opening novel establishes the series alternate history and its central conflict.