While many books, fiction and nonfiction alike, chronicle Alexander the Great's ascension to power and conquest of the ancient world, few go back to Alexander's early adulthood. In this vividly written and thoroughly researched novel, Lawrence Scheier explores Alexander's early years through the eyes of the renowned leader's best friend and lover, Hephaestion. Scheier's fictional biography is full of political intrigue, family treachery, and enticing romance. Do not waste the opportunity! The words of Hephaestion's father ring in his ears when he first approaches the young Alexander in the Macedonian capital of Pella. Hephaestion hopes to use his father's relationship with King Philip to be appointed as one of Alexander's royal companions. Hephaestion quickly becomes entangled in the complex politics of the royal family. Queen Olympias, Alexander's mother, gives him the position in exchange for his loyalty to Alexander and asks him seduce her son. Hephaestion realizes that he is being used a pawn in the twisted game between the king and queen. Hephaestion must make difficult choices to stop Alexander from being sacrificed on the altar of his parents' dysfunction. At the same time, Hephaestion must confront his own feelings for the prince and the dangerous consequences of Alexander's ambition.