The Wrong Blood

A gripping tale of two women during the Spanish Civil War, The Wrong Blood explores themes of resilience, motherhood, and the bonds formed in adversity.

Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, The Wrong Blood unfolds in a coastal village in the Basque country where three men pause at Extarri's bar on their way to a wedding. This seemingly mundane stop becomes the catalyst for a profound tale of connection and secrecy. As the war looms, the lives of the characters intertwine in unexpected ways, revealing the deep impact of conflict on personal relationships.

The narrative centers on María Antonia Extarri, a sixteen-year-old girl abandoned by her parents as the war erupts. Left vulnerable and exposed to the chaos around her, she faces unimaginable challenges. Parallel to her story is that of Isabel, who begins her married life in bliss only to have it shattered when her husband is executed as a traitor. Both women are thrust into a harsh reality, finding themselves alone and pregnant, their lives forever altered by the war.

A crippled young doctor bears witness to the silent pact formed between María and Isabel, a bond forged in desperation and shared suffering. The Wrong Blood is a hypnotic exploration of resilience, motherhood, and the enduring strength of female solidarity amidst the horrors of war. The masterful storytelling invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships in times of turmoil.