“A typewriter shattered my destiny” (3).

Within the backdrop of war-torn Spain, the melting pot of Morocco, and Portugal, Sira Quiroga’s metamorphosis from timid victim to bold professional—both as a seamstress and a spy—is a long yet richly layered historical journey. The historical part is prominent. Through this tome, you’ll learn a lot about Rosalinda Fox and Juan Luis Beigbeder and Ramón Serrano Suñer. It’s all very detailed and interesting but also for those who really like the history in historical fiction.

The first half of this story moved slowly for me because there are so many characters and details. It was hard to determine what was essential in Sira’s journey. Some characters and events circle back around while others end up just as little side notes along the way. The second half of the book—once there’s a bit more espionage—moved really quickly, though. And the ending, which can make or break a book, was surprisingly satisfying. ( )

Firmado por Pamen: Julio 2010 ( )

Couldn't finish this book. Figured if I wasn't interested by page 400, it probably wasn't going to happen in the next 200 pages. ( )

Amazing in every way. Spain, the Civil War, finding a way to survive as a woman alone as a seamstress. Wonderful in every way. ( )

En compañía del sol
Jesús Sánchez Adalid
Publicado: 2006 | 260 páginas
Novela Histórico

La aventura del jesuita español que enlazó Oriente y Occidente en el siglo XVI. Ambientada en la España de Carlos V y con el hijo menor del noble don Juan de Jassu como protagonista, el autor no deja escapar ningún rincón de su fascinante personalidad al tiempo que relata la vida del París universitario de la época, los viajes por mar, las costumbres exóticas de los habitantes de los reinos perdidos de Oriente. Todo ello se mezcla en una delirante realidad tangible, terrenal, y a la vez onírica y espiritual, que nos ilustra sobre uno de los pasajes más emocionantes de nuestra historia.