Bajo tierra seca

• The setting is impeccable in that 1917 Extremadura, where the class divide was an abyss and wealthy landowners seemed able to do whatever they pleased—even kill—with utter impunity. There is much of the western in Bajo tierra seca: a lawless land, trigger-happy or knife-wielding men, and a lone representative of justice pitted against them all.

• I started with very high expectations and a fear that they might be let down. But that was not the case. Quite the contrary, I was astonished by the story César Pérez Gellida has unearthed for us, grounded in true events that he has reworked and transformed.

• I recommend it, I really liked it. I bought it because I'm from Zafra and read it was set in my hometown and had won the Premio Nadal. The truth is I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the storytelling. While the passion Antonia Monterroso sparked in men seemed slightly exaggerated, I realized reality surpasses fiction upon learning the author was inspired by a true story.

• The author once again thrills with a remarkably well-written work, peculiar and well-defined characters, and a plot reminiscent of American western tales.

• Very interesting setting and rich prose. The author spins a plot that never flags and keeps your full attention; the final resolution features unexpected twists. It grabs you and you read it in one sitting.

1 / 5