Midnight Falcon: David Gemmell

Book II of The Rigante. "Tell him that one day I shall cut his vile heart out." The speaker is Bane, a wolfshead living outside the law, known as Bane the Bastard - though none said it to his face. Born of treachery, his name a curse, he grew up among the warriors of the Rigante. They valued his skills in war but feared the violence in his heart. Self exile takes Bane to the City of Stone where gladiators kill for a living and learning and culture hide the inner corruption and decay. The Crimson Priests have created a reign of terror by breeding hatred and malice enough to last a hundred lifetimes. And here the beleaguered Tree Cultists led by the mysterious Veiled Lady endeavor to practice their philosophy of harmony and love. Now seeking the ultimate vengeance, Bane prepares to do battle to destroy the Myth of Stone. The days of blood are drawing near and this son of an undefeated warrior-king must fight to save his world. Cover art by John Bolton.