The story begins with the 2005 closure of the Church of San Jorge following its priest's suspicious death. Eight years later, the diocese tasks Father Ernesto Larraz—a controversial priest removed from teaching—with its reopening. During restoration, workers uncover a horrifying Baroque crucifix that houses a malevolent entity. This ancient force acts like a "virus," mentally contaminating anyone who sees it and turning the routine reopening into a mortal nightmare. Key Themes and Characters
Reviewers on Babelio highlight how the book tests the characters' beliefs, exploring whether there is a force older and more powerful than God.
The narrative is described as a "frenetic reading" that balances extreme horror scenes with moments of humor and natural dialogue. Critical Reception
Critics and readers on Goodreads and Amazon generally praise the book for its addictive pacing and atmosphere, comparing it to films like The Rite or The Nun . While most appreciate the "colloquial" language and character depth, some readers found certain chapters overlong or the language occasionally too crude.
, a supernatural "noir" thriller by Alberto Caliani , centers on the terrifying discovery of an ancient evil hidden within a recently reopened church. Set in the author's hometown of Ceuta , the novel blends horror, suspense, and religious themes into a fast-paced narrative. Plot Overview
The setting of Ceuta allows for a rich cultural backdrop, blending Spanish and Arabic influences. Complex Protagonists:
A flawed priest seeking a form of redemption.
