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100 reviews
July 14,2025
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In recent times, I have read several books at once, but none of them held my attention for too long. This changed when I started "The Seville Affair". I immersed myself in the magical and enchanting world of Seville, and it charmed me. For several years, I have wanted to visit Andalusia, but I never found the time. I had decided that this spring would be the time, but unfortunately, the Coronavirus changed my plans. I hope to have the opportunity soon to walk along the small streets and enjoy the mixture of Moorish and Spanish culture.

Once again, an exciting and influential story, presented by Reverte in his descriptive and detailed language. One unconsciously transports oneself to the streets of Seville and can smell the scent of orange trees, feel the heat on one's skin, and the refreshing coolness of the shade next to the fountains in the inner courtyards of the rich houses. Many interesting themes are raised, such as the reasons for the priestly and monastic vow, the shock after personal realization. The attitude of modern people towards the church and its role in their lives.

This is only the second book by the author that I have come across, but I already see a pattern - the women, in the main role, are fatal and artfully beautiful, intriguing. The men are also handsome, brave, and principled. All the secondary heroes are generally ordinary in appearance, even unattractive at times, and subject to quite a few weaknesses in character and appearance. It slightly reminds me of the ancient Greek works, where beauty is equivalent to virtue.

I don't know why, but the story of the priest and the temptations he faces seemed a bit clichéd to me. Throughout the whole time, I couldn't stop making a parallel with "Birds Die Alone" and "Damned Souls", although I haven't read either of them. I sense the author's desire to have no extreme villains and unprincipled characters, or if there are such, they should get what they deserve.

And what is your favorite story with a priest as the main hero?
July 14,2025
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July 14,2025
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I started reading a book today. I read 70 pages, but it wasn't very captivating. So, I decided to jump to half-way through the book. As I was reading, I thought to myself, "Hmmm, it doesn't seem like I've missed anything." Then, I got impatient and jumped to the last chapter. To my disappointment, it had a lame ending. I was really let down by the whole experience. It just goes to show that sometimes, even if a book has a lot of pages, it doesn't necessarily mean it's going to be a great read. I guess I'll have to be more careful when choosing my next book.

July 14,2025
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July 14,2025
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Quart is a character that can be easily imagined by looking at any action movie protagonist who is sexy and serious. That's all there is to it. Alongside him is the equally cliché femme fatale, who is there to be sensual, mysterious, and have sexual tension with Quart throughout the entire book. Just with these details, you can pretty well imagine 60% of what happens here because you've seen it a million times before.


Ah! Except that in this book, the church is involved, but you could substitute that plot point with any other where there are murders and not much would have changed.


I know I'm complaining about the book and that I shouldn't like it because of that, but that's the problem... I did like it. I'm not proud of that. The same thing happened to me with "The Flanders Panel" where I knew the book was bad (especially the ending) but I still had a good time. There's something about this author that, even though my mind knows I shouldn't fall for these cheap tricks, I still end up doing so.


What can I say? Arturo Pérez-Reverte is my guilty pleasure.


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July 14,2025
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Seconds after resuming the book, I would once again be submerged in the atmosphere of Seville and hooked on the mystery of Our Lady of Tears. Each time, after every reading on the bus, or during the free moments at mealtime.

Although I remember the main events of the story and the secrets of the various characters, the book manages to hook me every time I read it.

Perhaps because I see a lot of myself in Quart. Perhaps because, although I am unable to face Macarena, I have indeed felt that irresistible attraction.

But I am convinced that the book would not be the same without the secondary characters, even if they are caricatures, or precisely because of that. Their presence serves as a counterpoint to the drama of the stories of all the characters. The alcoholic with the catchy tune, the former boxer and former bullfighter with little talent, the false lawyer deluding himself with his own memories, Perejil, always on the verge of getting up from the bench but never quite making it.

The main characters also have a past. Carlota de Bruner and her Xaloc, Cruz Bruner and the skull of her husband, or Macarena and the reason for leaving her husband. A world that is falling apart, like that of Father Quart, Pencho Gavira, or Father Ferro.

This complex web of characters and their intertwined stories creates a rich and engaging narrative that keeps me coming back for more. The vivid descriptions of Seville add to the atmosphere, making it feel like a character in its own right. As I continue to read, I am eager to uncover more of the mysteries and secrets that lie within the pages of this captivating book.
July 14,2025
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I have a tin ear for mysteries. Even a sophisticated one like *The Seville Communion* leaves me completely cold.

The improbably handsome and macho Lorenzo Quart, who is a "good soldier" of a priest despite his lack of religious conviction, is dispatched by the Vatican to a small and embattled church in Seville. His task is to look into two deaths that have occurred there and to hunt down a hacker who somehow managed to break into the pope's personal computer.

This complex and thrilling story unfolds in the backdrop of the beautiful city of Seville, with its rich history and vibrant culture. As Quart delves deeper into the mysteries, he encounters a web of secrets, lies, and betrayals.

Will he be able to solve the cases and uncover the truth? Or will he become entangled in the dangerous阴谋 and lose himself in the process? Only time will tell in this captivating tale of mystery and suspense.
July 14,2025
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**Title: Reflections on Life, Faith, and the Human Condition**

In this passage, we are presented with a series of profound and thought-provoking conversations and musings. The archbishop remarks that there is no "us," only individuals responsible before God and the pope. A woman has lived near the city for almost four years, unable to leave due to something in the light and colors that affects her will. The priest, Quart, feels respected by his housekeeper and reflects on the complexity of women. The loss or destruction of old buildings, paintings, or books is seen as a violation.

The tired dancing of her shoes on the broken stage makes a sound. Quart also thinks about his boss from the IVD and how the archbishop and Father Fero smile in a similar way. He wonders how to preserve the mission of life in a world marked by death. The old man warns him not to follow his initial impulse and to use his hands and free his mind.

Macarena protects her memories and books, and Quart reflects on the difficulties women face, especially nuns. He is asked if he has visited the graves of nuns and contemplates their lonely existence. An old woman remarks that some worlds end quietly. Quart imagines what a beautiful woman will look like in thirty or forty years and realizes that everything passes and ends. Bruner speaks of the special, dispassionate curiosity and gentle tolerance one feels when approaching the end. Quart questions the meaning of their existence and the insignificance of their lives in the face of the vast universe. He concludes that perhaps only a friendly hand matters before the stars go out and the cold sets in. And yet, despite all this, Seville will remain, always inhaling the spicy oranges and jasmine in the spring.

This passage delves deep into the human experience, exploring themes of faith, love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that is constantly changing and passing away. It challenges the reader to think about their own place in the grand scheme of things and to consider what truly matters in life.

The conversations and reflections are rich and complex, filled with vivid imagery and profound insights. They offer a glimpse into the minds and hearts of the characters, as well as a broader commentary on the human condition.

Overall, this passage is a powerful and moving exploration of some of the most fundamental questions of life. It leaves the reader with much to ponder and consider, and perhaps a newfound appreciation for the beauty and mystery of the world around us.
July 14,2025
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DNF Boring!

DNF, short for Dungeon & Fighter, is a game that many people once loved. However, for some players, it has now become a rather boring experience.

The repetitive gameplay of constantly grinding dungeons and leveling up can wear thin after a while. The same maps, the same monsters, and the same quests can make the game feel stale and uninteresting.

Moreover, the game's economy and item system can also be a source of frustration. The difficulty in obtaining good items and the high prices in the market can make it seem like progress is slow and unrewarding.

While there are still some aspects of DNF that are enjoyable, such as the character customization and the PVP mode, for many players, the overall experience has become too boring to continue.

Perhaps the developers need to consider making some significant changes to the game to bring back the excitement and interest of the players. Only then can DNF hope to regain its former glory and popularity.
July 14,2025
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I postponed my meeting with Arturo Pérez-Reverte for a long time.

But now I regret that I have done so for such a long time. It is a magnificent novel, with a writing style and, of course, Spain. There are many adventures, sinful passions, the church, faith, and the power to believe in our dreams.

An incredible adventure with the author that will continue very soon.

Arturo Pérez-Reverte's works are known for their vivid descriptions and engaging storylines. His novels often explore themes such as history, mystery, and human nature.

I am looking forward to finally meeting him and learning more about his creative process and the inspiration behind his books.

Hopefully, this meeting will be a memorable one and will give me a deeper understanding and appreciation of his work.

Until then, I will continue to沉浸 in his novels and eagerly await the next installment of this wonderful adventure.
July 14,2025
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I really liked it!! More than the story itself, which is nothing extraordinary, I like Pérez-reverte's ability to literally take you inside the pages.

That is, I like the way I feel involved.

It seems like magic
July 14,2025
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The skin of the drum is a self-contained novel. In this, we encounter an unusual priest and a mystery in a church in Seville.

Despite these appealing ingredients, the story is nothing like what is expected and turns out to be disappointing.

Although it is written with an agile prose, it is not uncommon to get lost and end up bored during the narrative. Eternal paragraphs and a thread that has nothing to do with the story make one end up rereading the same sentence several times due to having stopped paying attention.

The characters, on the other hand, are well constructed, with all of them having a background and a strong and well-founded personality.

Overall, while the novel has some good aspects such as the character development, the lackluster story and confusing narrative make it a less than satisfying read. It fails to live up to the promise of its interesting premise and leaves the reader feeling let down.
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