Book description
In September 1943, German soldiers advance on the ancient gates of
Gjirokastër, Albania. It is the first step in a carefully planned
invasion. But once at the mouth of the city, the troops are taken aback
by a surprising act of rebellion that leaves the citizens fearful of a
bloody counter-attack. Soon rumours circulate, in cafes, houses and
alleyways, that the Nazi Colonel in command of the German Army was once
a school acquaintance of a local dignitary, Doctor Gurameto. In the town
square, Colonel von Schwabe greets his former classmate warmly; in
return, Doctor Gurameto invites him to dinner. The very next day, the
Colonel and his army disappear from the city. One of the most
compelling novelists now writing in any language
