Cathedral of the Sea Book

It is very important to know when you start this book that it is in fact based on the Chronica of King Pedro III. Although historical fiction, it closely follows true events in Catalonia during the 1300s under King Pedro's reign. There is tons of history incorporated into the novel. At the same time it has an engaging and fast moving plot. You will learn about Barcelona, the building of the cathedral Sant Maria de la Mar. You will be impressed by the cathedral's history, its beauty and how it engaged the life of so many in Barcelona. It was built for and by the people of Barcelona. All its people. It was built at the site of an older church and underneath it is an ancient Roman cemetery. However the book and the plot covers many, many other actual events: wars, the bubonic plague, the Inquisition, guild practices, treatment of women and Jews, in fact all aspects of life in Barcelona during the 1300s. this book is a perfect example of how historical fiction can teach in a delightful, engrossing manner.

There is a author's note, that clearly explains what is fiction and what is fact. The events that have been altered are pointed out. What is amazing is that what seems fiction is fact! I wish I had read it, in the middle of the novel rather than at the end.

So why only three stars? I know that for me to say I like the book feels more appropriate than to say I really liked it. This is because I never really attached my self to the characters. The book is more concerned with the unrolling of the plot than character analysis. Each character plays a significant role; there are none that could have been eliminated. Each character was rounded and well thought out, but maybe the fact that all was so well planned, that there were few bizarre elements, that it simply felt a bit boring. I do not mean the plot was boring;- that was rolling along at full speed continually. In fact it felt a bit cinematic.

So this book provides great history in an engaging story, but without much sparkle I am very glad I read it. I learned so very, very much. Did you know that the Inquisition began very early in Catalonia? Dis you know that people were trading and profiting from the buying and selling of different currencies in the 1300s? Did you know that when two serfs were married, the master had the right to sleep with the woman first, on the night of their marriage? You will not regret reading this book.