Publisher: Romaunce Books

Publication Date: November 1, 2023

Length: 262 pages

I was fortunate to receive an advanced reviewer copy from the author. I have had the pleasure of reviewing each of his books in the Isaac Alvarez Mystery series.

This is the third book in the Isaac Alvarez Mystery series. Please note that these books should be read in order to appreciate and understand the entire story. In this book, Isaac is living in Granada because of his exile by King Ferdinand. The king had always protected Isaac from the evil intentions of Torquemada, the Grand Inquisitor, but the king’s patience ran out. The Inquisition continues. The mass killings have curtailed but questioning of those who convert to Catholicism continues. Isaac stays busy working. He learns that the king and queen are ending their travels and planning to settle in Granada. Isaac hopes that he may somehow find a way to meet with the king. What will happen? Because of his exile, Isaac lives in the guest cottage at a friend’s compound. This friend, the spice merchant, has graciously provided sanctuary for Isaac as a trusted friend. Isaac appreciates the warm hospitality. Unfortunately, the more he is around his friend’s wife the more he falls in love with her. Has anyone noticed his feelings or is he managing to hide his emotions well?

Isaac’s daughter, Isabel, has traveled to Granada to begin an apprenticeship as an apothecary. She sees Alejandro, her former fiance, and realizes that her love for him is still strong. What are his feelings for her? Have the women of Granada captivated him? Isabel also gains favor with the Infanta. Her once boring life now has several paths to the future. Will she be able to choose?

A new religious advisor to the queen is about to cause religious tension to boil over. This time the Muslims of Grenada have the unforgivable happen. How will this impact Isaac and his family?

This is a beautiful continuation of the Isaac Alvarez Mystery. The vivid descriptions of Granada enable the reader to envision the various areas of the city with ease. Isaac is a familiar character at this point, continuing his devotion to his family, his faith, and his loyalty to his friends. He is given difficult circumstances to overcome but it is heartwarming to see him stick to his values.

The religious persecution and conflict during the Inquisition must have been difficult for people to understand. First, the Jewish people were targeted. All Jewish persons converting to Catholicism were suspected of not truly embracing the faith. Multitudes are killed. Now focus is on the Muslim faith. Citizens are given the opportunity to convert to Catholicism (sound familiar?). Those who do convert are being suspected of being insincere. The King and Queen continually change their stance on their subjects’ faith. It is impossible to stay safe.

Michael Lynes does an excellent job giving insight into the confusion and chaos in Spain to the point that you may find your heart racing. I could hardly read fast enough sometimes. I have had the pleasure of reading each book in this series. The story of Isaac Alvarez is compelling. My eyes have been opened to another part of history that has been sadly neglected. Each book is well-written and thoroughly entertaining. Without a doubt, this is Michael Lynes’ strongest work yet, be sure not to pass this by.

My Rating: 🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻/5