The Marranos

by Liliane Webb

She was Isabel Valderocas, a vibrant Spanish beauty blessed by the privileges of one of the fines, most loyal Christian families in all Spain. Until she learns that she is a Jew -- a Marrano -- fated to die at the stake if her heritage is revealed.

And yet she carries her secret bravely, spying in her daily sojourns to the court of Philip IV, working always for the freedom of her secret people -- the hidden Jews like herself.

But Isabel keeps yet another secret; the man she loves -- even as she loves her persecuted people -- is the ruthless, ambitious Rafael Cortes, determined to become the Grand Inquisitor of all Spain, sworn enemy of The Marranos.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Adult, Spain, Judaism

555 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1980

Reviews

[Rebecca Huston · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite historical novels, and no, I won't give it away. Set in the court of King Philip IV, this has forbidden love, secret religion, and lots of historical detail. Hard to find at times, but worth it.

[Hannah Braimah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice

[Rebecca Huston · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the better historical novels to come out of the '80's, with this tale of forbidden love between Isabel, a Marrano (secret Jew) and Rafael, a Catholic, during the seventeenth century, in Spain. Terrific at blending in details of daily living and the larger historical picture, as well as giving a romance that you can both believe in, and know that it's doomed from the start. Five stars overall, and one I wish would be brought back into print!