The Enemies of Nicolo Basti

In a near future where the Catholic Church has declared that choral music is inappropriate for the Eucharistic liturgy, the Patriarchy of Venice remains the only diocese that has not yet conformed. The Cardinal patriarch must navigate a series of complicated challenges, including the involvement of his niece with the city’s police commissioner and the interests of powerful individuals in government and international trade. As dissent grows and escalates into social, political, and criminal consequences, the independent state of Venice is also dealing with the approaching Historical Regatta. In the midst of it all, a conspiracy erupts on the Lagoon during the climax of the gondoliers’ race. Follow the twists and turns of this gripping tale in The Enemies of Nicolo Basti.

Lance Haward is a retired solicitor, formerly the country’s leading specialist and writer on the law of education, with numerous technical publications to his name (Further Education Development Agency, Times Education Supplement, columnist to the Education Law Association Bulletin, etc.). Also, articles and short stories (including prize winners). Historical lecturer. Sometime member of the London Diocesan Board of Education, and the London Diocesan Council / Synod. Appearances on many television quiz/chat shows - the only person to have won the Brain of Mensa (three times) and BBC’s “University Challenge”. Currently, editing two journals under the auspices of British Mensa.