The Salamander (1973) is a novel by Australian writer Morris West.
Contents
Synopsis
Dante Matucci, a captain in the Italian secret service, begins an investigation into the death of an Italian general, found dead in his apartment. Next to the body was a small card depicting a salamander in a bed of flames. Soon Matucci discovers that the Salamander is really a millionaire industrialist Bruno Manzini, and he is drawn into a difficult investigation.
Critical reception
John Philip, writing in The Canberra Times, found the novel "a tale that will enthrall fans of action-packed topical novels." And he concluded: "This may not be Morris West's best novel, but it makes arresting reading and will find favour with a wide range of readers."
Publication history
After its original publication in 1973 in England by Heinemann
the novel was later published by
William Morrow in 1973,
Pocket Books in 1974, and
Allen & Unwin in 2017,
and many other paperback editions, including a German translation in 1973.
Film adaptation
In 1981, Peter Zinner's directorial debut, The Salamander, was derived from West's book, on a screenplayed by Robert Kratz and Rod Serling. It featured:
Franco Nero as Carabinieri Colonel Dante Matucci
Anthony Quinn as Bruno Manzini
Martin Balsam as Captain Steffanelli