The city of Perimadeia has fallen. Bardas Loredan, the man who was chosen to save it, is now on the Island--a recluse living in the mountains, away from his family, with only a young apprentice for company. His life as a fencer-at-law is over. Instead, Loredan spends his days perfecting the art of bow making. But his isolation will not last forever, and when the Island comes under attack, his skills as a soldier and leader are once again called into play. The second installment in" "The Fencer Trilogy, "The Belly of the Bow" firmly establishes K.J. Parker in the top rank of fantasy writers.