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It might have taken four years of writing and rewriting and an extenuating historical research, but it certainly paid off. The Cathedral of the Sea, the first novel by Ildefonso Falcones, was an international bestseller and has been translated into many languages, making Falcones one of Spain’s best-selling authors.
Set in Barcelona in 1300, with all the social upheaval and the cruelty of the Inquisition, the novel follows the construction, stone by stone, of the Santa Maria del Mar cathedral. Thanks to the author’s meticulous accuracy and the enthralling plot which masterfully revisits the feuilleton tradition, Falcones has earned a enthusiastic praise from critics and readers alike.
Even his second novel, The Hand of Fatima, which tells the story of the Spanish Moors, Muslims converted to Christianity in 16th Century Andalusia has already been well received. It’s a rich story of adventure and passion that shines light on the origins of the conflict between the two religions.
It’s no accident that Falcones has sold more than four million copies of his books. Not bad for a lawyer who writes in his spare time!
Falcones' books have been translated into many languages. In Italy the books are published by Longanesi.
