The Translation of Father Torturo

In 1263 when the vault containing the body of St. Anthony was opened thirty-two years after its original interment the flesh had turned to dust but the tongue was in a perfect state of preservation. For almost eight-hundred years it was kept mounted on a pin. But now it has been stolen. Padua Milan Venice Florence Rome. . . . Father Torturo the neo-decadent anti-hero moves through a modern Italy reeking of incense and filth. In an adventure stained with magic and garnished with cruelty he travels on an ambitious journey to popedom where the only laws that restrain him are those of his own artistic taste.