'An exciting new story from first-time novelist, Ferdinando Manzo, Arco explores man's battle with the sea in an attempt to seek solace. The story is set in two different eras: on the high seas among ancient pirates and in contemporary Europe ravaged by war. The legend of the blue vortex - a door into another world - is the central focus of both periods. An adventure story, it also raises philosophical questions about love and the purpose of life. Commander Arco is at the centre of the search for the blue vortex as legend has it he was the only man who ever found it. Those who follow him are drawn to re-enact the legendary search for eternal life. The narrator, devastated by the loss of his lover, tells a tale of suspense and intrigue as he attempts to recover his lost love. ' (Publication summary)
