Fasman is the editor for “The Economist”, web version. His first novel alternates storylines in two centuries.

12th century Al-Idrisi, geographer to the Sicilian king, collected a vast library of books and treasures on the subject of alchemy. A handful of objects rumored to hold the secrets to immortality were scattered throughout the continents until, now, 900 years later somebody seems to be striving to reunite them. Descriptions of their histories and usually bloody repossessions slowly become linked to the modern day murder of a reclusive New England professor of Estonian studies.

Paul Tomm, recent journalism graduate from the same college, accepts the assignment to write Prof. Puhapaev’s obituary. He finds himself drawn deeper and deeper into the secrets and beliefs of the ancient world as well as the dangers of international smuggling. The colorful host of small town characters includes a mysterious woman who becomes Paul’s love interest and in the end helps tie both story levels together.

A richly detailed adventure tale leading through ancient Asia, 20th century Estonia and modern day Connecticut in almost 400 pages. Not recommended for those who take offense at the acceptance of time travel and metaphysical changes.