The artist flows into the mask the poet offers him; only so will the god possess him.
Greece, fourth century BC. The golden age of theatre may be over, but Nikeratos still lives and breathes the stage. Finding work with a group of travelling actors, he discovers amongst their dusty props an old, discarded mask of Apollo.
When a violent attack threatens the company mid-performance, the actors must go on: once the show ends, they know their lives are at stake. Seized by inspiration, Niko dons the golden mask and feels the powerful words of Apollo coursing through him – spurring the defenders to victory.
But Greece is racked by political struggles, and as his fame grows Niko finds himself caught in the crossfire, a pawn in a game of tyrants. And all the while, the mask gains power – becoming his conscience, keeper of his secrets and, ultimately, the maker of his gravest choice.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 416
Imprint: Virago UK
Publication date: 28/04/2026
Series: Virago Modern Classics
