Toledo

Set in the 13th and 14th centuries in Spain and in Muslim Al Andalus, this fascinating political novel follows three families of different faiths. They escaped from Cordoba during the conquest of that Muslim city by Ferdinand III of Christian Castile. Traveling on dangerous roads during wartime, they arrive in Toledo, which at that time had its own political upheavals due to economic problems and royal inheritance issues.

Friendships were reformed between the three families, even though they were of different social classes. After valiantly taking part in battles against Southern Muslims, the son of one of the escaped families was made governor of Cordoba, the city of his mother's birth. It is there he begins a love affair with a girl of a different faith.

Three different kings ruled the region during this interesting historical era. Following the rule of Ferdinand III was Alfonso X, who was succeeded by Sancho, his second son. Sancho's older brother died in battle against the Muslims.

(About the Author)

Alex Bloch was born in Germany, which he left when Hitler was in power. He is now living in Israel. Educated in the U.S. at MIT and Columbia, he earned a Ph.D. from Tel-Aviv University in history and also taught there. The author is retired. This is his 11th book.