By Fire, By Water
A Novel of 15th Century Spain
About the Book
The story of Luis de Santángel, chancellor to the court of Aragon. Seen through his eyes:
the fall of Granada, the expulsions of the Jews, and the discovery of a New World.
Awards & Recognition
Critical Acclaim
"Kaplan has done remarkable homework on the period and crafted a convincing and complex figure in Santángel in what is a naturally cinematic narrative and a fine debut.
— Publishers Weekly
"Debut novelist Kaplan depicts a turbulent period in 15th-century Spain, focusing on the story of Aragon’s royal chancellor… Deftly moves through a complex web of personal relationships, religious zeal and political fervor."
— Kirkus Reviews
""[A] remarkably learned and heartbreaking romantic novel... It is astounding how much Kaplan fits in this accomplished debut novel -- describing assassinations, torture, theological discourse, ancient culture and politics, sex and love with a deft blend of straightforwardness and subtlety. Despite the unceasing brutality of their time, Kaplan's characters are shaded rather than all good or all evil. And despite its medieval setting, the story has contemporary echoes. Best of all, it's hard to put down. Beautifully executed, highly recommended."
— Minneapolis Star Tribune
"Must take its place as one of the most important contemporary historical novels with a Jewish theme. One could also argue that its portrayal of religious and ethnic hatred in the Spain of Ferdinand and Isabella (or, as Kaplan calls them, Fernando and Ysabel ) is a better way to understand the Jewish world today than the work of many of the hip, hyped young Jewish novelists clawing to the top of literary New York"
— Ha'aretz