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Wealthy Zarita has enjoyed a cosseted life as the daughter of the local magistrate; Saulo’s life has been dogged by persecution, danger and poverty. An unlucky accident causes their paths to cross as the officers of the Inquisition arrive in their small town seeking out heretics with an unquenchable thirst. Zarita must remain, struggling to survive the brutality and trickery of the Inquisitors and to observe the courtly intrigue of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand while Saulo, banished to be galley slave, faces shipwreck and pirates before encountering Christopher Columbus. Large in its scope, this is a thrilling story deftly told in two voices which vividly capture the extremes of the time.
Trade review
A dramatic historical adventure set during the time of the Spanish Inquisition, a time of fire and fury when people turned traitor to save themselves. It follows the success of "The Medici Seal" and "The Nostradamus Prophecy" for this Carnegie Medal-winning author. 'An outstanding writer...simply superb' "Independent". Ages: 12+
Synopsis
Zarita, only daughter of the town magistrate, lives a life of wealth and privilege. Indulged by her parents, she is free to spend her days as she pleases, enjoying herself in the company of an eligible young nobleman, horse riding, or leisurely studying the arts.
