The Tale of the Heretic

Balthasar de Alaman's journey begins with his escape from a false imprisonment by his brother during the Spanish Inquisition. As he seeks to flee Spain and become a soldier of fortune, he faces numerous dangers, including a wolf attack and a life-threatening infection. His encounters with a compassionate Jewish family and a homosexual comrade challenge his deep-seated prejudices, particularly as he develops feelings for a Jewish woman amidst religious conflict. Ultimately, Balthasar's odyssey leads him to a shocking revelation about his brother's betrayal, forcing a life-altering choice.