Set in 18th century Naples, based on the then most prominent love triangel of Sir William Hamilton, his celebrated wife Emma, and Lord Nelson, and peopled with many of the great figures of the day, this unconventional, bestselling historical romance touches on themes of sex and revolution, the fate of nature, art and the collector's obsessions, and, above all, love. 

The scenery is dominated by Mount Vesuvius, which rises above the city and adds a threatening atmosephere to their life-greedy, reckless bustle.