The Salamander (West novel)

The Salamander (1973) is a novel by Australian writer Morris West.

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 publishers Heinemann the novel was later published as follows:


 * William Morrow, USA, 1973
 * Pocket Books, USA, 1974
 * Allen & Unwin, Australia, 2017

and many other paperback editions.

The novel was also translated into German in 1973.

Film adaptation
The novel was adapted for film in 1981, directed by Peter Zinner, from a screenplay by Robert Kratz and Rod Serling.

The film featured:
 * Franco Nero as Carabinieri Colonel Dante Matucci
 * Anthony Quinn as Bruno Manzini
 * Martin Balsam as Captain Steffanelli