by José María Pérez, known as "Peridis" , is a masterclass in historical fiction that rescues one of the most powerful yet overlooked women in Spanish medieval history: Queen Berenguela of Castile.
Peridis brings a highly specialized background to his writing. As an architect and a renowned expert on Romanesque art, his descriptions of medieval castles, cathedrals, and landscapes carry an unparalleled level of authentic physical detail.
Peridis subverts the traditional narrative of the Reconquista. He shifts the focus away from the battlefield and into the diplomatic courts, showing that Berenguela's ink, negotiations, and strategic patience were just as powerful as her son's sword.
The text heavily explores the concept of self-sacrifice. Berenguela is not a power-hungry tyrant; she is a woman acting out of pure survival for her dynasty. She surrendered her own title and personal desires to ensure a stable, united Christian front. 🖋️ Literary Style and Critical Reception