Heather B. (HeatherLovesSpike) reviewed on 4/4/2006 + 114 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

Blind Jewish physician Isaac of Girona accompanies the beautiful Bonafilla and her family from Girona to Perpignan to attend her arranged wedding to David Bonhujes, the brother of Isaac's physician friend Jacob. The author knows her pre-Expulsion Spain intimately and, after a leisurely opening, the action arrives with a breathless rush. In Perpignan, Isaac finds himself unexpectedly busy ministering to the nearly dead Arnau Mara, a Christian nobleman and shipowner, who's escaped to Jacob's home after being jailed for plotting to run contraband. Mara can't legally reside in the call, the Jewish ghetto. When his enemy suspects Mara's alive, he plants a rumor that the mysterious patient is a heretic; a priest who discovers the rumor is false pays the price with his life. Meanwhile, Bonafilla has a roving eye for Felip, a dashing but dishonest Christian. When David learns of Bonafilla's recklessness, he threatens to cancel the wedding. Isaac must find out who was responsible for having Mara jailed and concocted the story that he was a Cathar. Fortunately, Isaac is as capable as David proves wise. The ending will leave readers feeling as warmly content as the members of the joyous wedding party.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details