Simon Raven 
Roses of Picardie 

A string of long-lost and cursed rubies gives the title to this highly imaginative tale by Simon Raven, author of the 'First Born of Egypt’ saga. Jacquiz Helmut and Balbo Blakeney, among other eccentric characters, pursue the jewels across four countries and eight centuries. Horror, intrigue and high comedy shape the story as it races towards an unforgettable climax.