The Red Citadel

Having not read the other two books in this series, this was an enjoyable book that I was able to read as a stand alone. A lot of the events from the other two books are mentioned in context/or referenced which was enough to give me an understanding and embrace the story without being confused. That said, I would have liked to read the other two books first, as there was a lot of interesting backstory.

I thoroughly enjoy learning about the history of other countries (as someone in the UK), and Lynes explored the conflict between Catholicism and Judaism in 15th century Spain well. I got a real sense of the brewing tension, of the stories from characters on both sides, and how the people in power sought control. There was also some great world-building of Seville and Granada, from the soaring walls and interior of the Alhambra to the fragrant smells of ras el hanout.

There was a strong range of characters from Isaac, the protagonist who always seems to be in the thick of it, his strong-willed daughter Isabel and the larger than life rebel leader Abdul Rahman. Then there were recognisable historical figures, such as the monarchs Isabella and Ferdinand of Spain and their daughter Catalina, who would go on to be the first of King Henry’s VIII’s wives.

The plot was well-paced, and felt very natural. From more intimate moments between family and friends to book-burnings, political interrogations and arrest, The Red Citadel felt smooth and easy but not superficial.

I felt there was more scope for Isaac’s character to get embroiled in the dark, seedy underbelly of espionage and it lacked that grit. For me, that would have added to the story and given it another layer.

There were also a few names that seemed to be duplications e.g. Isabel and Isabella, and it would have helped to have greater variance. However, there was enough differentiation to avoid confusion.

Overall, I enjoyed The Red Citadel as it was well-written, had a great plot, and was a very immersive journey into the religious turmoil of 15th century Spain.