A Passage of Clouds

CASTILE, 1461: Eleven years have passed since Fern n Hernandes, a converso whose Jewish ancestors were forced to convert to Catholicism, and his wife, Naomi, whose people remained Jews, fled Castile to escape prosecution for heresy. The dramatic story continues as Fern n, mourning the death of his father, sails to Castile with his family to reorder Hernandes affairs. But events darker than familial tragedy await him. Accusations of foul crimes confront Jews and conversos, driving Fern n to seek political influence with King Enrique. After many trials, Fern n becomes Protector of the Crown and is plunged into the maelstrom of Castilian politics-including the bitter love-hate between the King and the marqu s de Villena, and the deadly greed of Juan II of Aragon-all preface to a bloody civil war. Based on historic events in Spain during the turbulent 15th century, the author weaves a vibrant tapestry depicting the struggles of Fern n and his family, and the intrigue of prominent nobles, continuing the blend of truth and fiction into a tale rich with gripping narrative and memorable characters. Praise for the Novel "By turns swashbuckling and philosophic, historically and emotionally believable, this novel paints a convincing picture of the life of conversos and Jews in medieval Spain, while examining dilemmas still of concern today. A weak king, scheming advisors, and a minority community under attack, form the backdrop for action that is hectic in terms of both swordplay and conscience." Miriam Sagan, author of Rag Trade and Searching For A Mustard Seed.