Bethany's review: Bardugo, renowned for her young adult fantasy novels, takes readers on an exquisite journey to sixteenth-century Spain in The Familiar. The book has her signature fantasy elements (magic, mythical creatures), but it is foremost an exploration of religious identity. Luzia Cotado is a scullery maid with a secret: she's Jewish. In world torn apart by religious conflict, in the specter of the notorious Spanish Inquisition, Luzia's life depends on concealing her identity. She goes to Catholic mass, hides her parentage, and lives in fear of discovery.
Luzia has another secret she can't resist exposing; her ability to perform simple magic. Called "little miracles" in the context of her richly draw historical world, Luiza's magic offers her upward mobility. She soon attracts the attention of powerful figures eager to exploit her to gain favor with Spain's devout King Phillip IV. Although admitting to performing miracles puts Luzia under the Inquisition's deadly eye, she loves the opportunity to assert herself and gain power after a life of oppression. Her new status also introduces her to Guillén Santángel, the mysterious "familiar" of Luzia's violent new patron. Rumored to be centuries old and nicknamed the Scorpion for his deadly accuracy with a dagger, he and Luzia form an intense partnership. They are both people on the margins of early modern Spanish life, and in a world set against them, their magic is the only protection they have.
While parts of the book follow a well-worn path of an underdog with remarkable magic besting her betters, the historical detail of the book is lush, and Bardugo so remarkably captures the mood of historic Spain, that the story feels quite fresh. The magic system is well-integrated into the thought patterns of sixteenth-century people,. All Luzia's feats are seen through the seen through the lens of Catholic. Protestant, and Jewish theology. This period of European history is defined by violent religious strife; Bardugo captures this well. This book contains disturbing topics, such as exploitation, violence, and religious prejudice. This is aimed at an adult audience, unlike her earlier work. Perfect for fans of fantasy novels or fans of historical fiction willing to dip into a new genre.