Benito Pérez Galdós wrote “Fortunata y Jacinta,” a novel that explores the lives of two women in 19th-century Madrid. Fortunata is a strong-willed woman from a humble background, while Jacinta lives a more sheltered and privileged life.
Their stories intertwine through their connection to the same man, Juanito Santa Cruz, offering a vivid glimpse into class differences and societal expectations of the time.
This novel is part of Galdós’s series “Novelas Españolas Contemporáneas,” which aimed to create a panoramic view of Spanish society during the 19th century.
“Winter in Madrid” is a spy fiction novel set in Madrid during the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War in 1940. The story follows Harry Brett, a British veteran sent to Spain as a reluctant spy.
He is tasked with gaining the trust of an old school friend, Sandy Forsyth, who has become involved in shady business dealings in Franco’s Spain. Amidst the intrigue, Harry uncovers secrets that intertwine with love, loyalty, and betrayal in the shadow of war-torn Madrid.
Camilo José Cela’s “The Hive” paints a vivid picture of post-civil war Madrid. Set over a few days, the novel captures the lives of ordinary people in the city as they navigate poverty, hope, and survival.
The story moves through cafes, streets, and small rooms, revealing their struggles and desires. It’s full of unforgettable characters, each caught in the challenges of a harsh and uncertain time.
The novel was initially censored in Spain due to its raw portrayal of post-civil war society, but it was eventually published. Cela went on to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1989.
The novel “Leaving the Atocha Station” by Ben Lerner follows Adam Gordon, a young American poet living in Madrid on a fellowship. As Adam navigates the city’s art scene, relationships, and his own insecurities, he reflects on authenticity, language, and his sense of self.
Set against the backdrop of a politically charged Spain, it captures his experiences with humor and introspection while portraying his often unreliable perspective.
Arturo Pérez-Reverte’s “The Club Dumas” follows Lucas Corso, a rare book dealer, as he investigates the authenticity of a mysterious manuscript connected to “The Three Musketeers” and a book meant to summon the devil.
The story weaves through secretive book collectors, cryptic codes, and dangerous pursuits, taking readers into a world filled with obsession and mystery.
The setting in Madrid adds to the atmosphere, with its old bookstores and shadowy alleyways providing the perfect backdrop for Corso’s search.
“Celia, lo que dice” by Elena Fortún is about a curious and clever little girl named Celia, who often finds herself misunderstanding the adult world while trying to make sense of it.
Through her thoughts and mischievous adventures, the book paints a vivid picture of life in 1920s Madrid, capturing the charm and struggles of family life and society during that time.
Celia’s observations bring humor and warmth to the story while offering insight into a child’s unique perspective.
The novel “Miau” by Benito Pérez Galdós tells the story of Ramón Villaamil, a former government employee living in Madrid, who struggles with unemployment and financial instability after being dismissed from his job.
Set against the backdrop of political and bureaucratic corruption, the book explores the challenges faced by his family as they navigate their lives in a society riddled with decay and hardship.
Through Villaamil’s interactions with his relatives, including his ambitious son-in-law, Galdós paints a picture of personal despair and social criticism.
Emilio Carrere wrote “The Tower of the Seven Hunchbacks,” a strange and atmospheric novel set in Madrid. The story follows Basilio, a young man caught up in a mystery involving a hidden underworld beneath the city and a peculiar group of hunchbacks.
Packed with odd characters and eerie twists, the book paints a shadowy picture of Madrid’s old streets, blending superstition and intrigue in a way that keeps you wondering what lies around the next corner.
“Captain Alatriste” by Arturo Pérez-Reverte is a story about a soldier-turned-mercenary navigating the gritty streets of 17th-century Madrid. Diego Alatriste, the main character, takes on dangerous assignments while dealing with betrayal and the politics of the Spanish Golden Age.
The book brings Madrid’s taverns, sword fights, and secrets to life through its vivid storytelling.
The novel was adapted into a film in 2006, starring Viggo Mortensen as Captain Alatriste, which helped to popularize the character and the series of novels featuring him.