La Catedral   By: Vicente Blasco Ibáñez (1867-1928)

La Catedral by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to the streets of Valencia during the Spanish Civil War. The author's vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the setting to life, making it easy to imagine the bustling city filled with political intrigue and social unrest.

The characters in the novel are complex and well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. The protagonist, Alvaro Alvarado, is a charming and enigmatic figure who finds himself caught in the middle of a dangerous political conspiracy. As he navigates the treacherous waters of Valencia's elite society, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, wondering who they can trust and what secrets will be revealed next.

Blasco Ibáñez's writing is both lyrical and engaging, drawing readers into the story from the very first page. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the very end. Overall, La Catedral is a compelling and thought-provoking read that sheds light on a turbulent period in Spanish history.

First Page:

Gabriel paseó largo rato por la desierta plazuela, subiéndose hasta las cejas el embozo de la capa, mientras tosía con estremecimientos dolorosos. Sin dejar de andar, para defenderse del frío, contemplaba la gran puerta llamada del Perdón, la única fachada de la iglesia que ofrece un aspecto monumental. Recordaba otras catedrales famosas, aisladas, en lugar preeminente, presentando libres todos sus costados, con el orgullo de su belleza, y las comparaba con la de Toledo, la iglesia madre española, ahogada por el oleaje de apretados edificios que la rodean y parecen caer sobre sus flancos, adhiriéndose a ellos, sin dejarla mostrar sus galas exteriores más que en el reducido espacio de las callejuelas que la oprimen... Continue reading book >>