Following the events of 'Inquisition', Cathan has taken refuge from the persecution of the fire-worshipping Domain in the solace of a Thetian library. However, political upheavals outside its walls threaten the very existence of his sanctuary.
With placement of his uncle Aetius VI on the Imperial throne, the Domain has finally achieved the control it has dreamed of for so long. Across Thetia and the Archipelago, Sarhaddon's sinister Venatic monks now wield power through a com pliant Imperial Navy and their mastery of the crowds. Those they consider enemies become penitents - people without rights or future, expendable labour for new Domain projects.
As the reach of the Domain grows longer, Cathan becomes one more anonymous victim of its oppression. But when he and Ravenna attempt to escape Domain captivity, they learn that the fire-priests are not the only fanatics - nor the only enemy . . .
'Crusade' concludes the story of religious oppression begun in 'Heresy' and continued in 'Inquisition'. Told with a deep understanding of the complexities of politics and human nature, and set on a brilliantly realised world with strong historical parallels, the 'Aquasilva Trilogy' confirms Anselm Audley as one of the rising stars of epic fantasy.
