The island of Mallorca, the times of the Spanish Inquisition. A group of local Jewish converts continues to observe Jewish rituals in secret. Fearing denunciations, they decide to flee persecution on a ship across the Atlantic. But stormy weather ruins their plans. Thirty-seven unfortunate fugitives are captured and sentenced to be burned at the stake. In prose that is both lyrical and intense, Riera recreates life on the Spanish island in the 17th century, skillfully weaving the story of persecution into the historical, cultural and religious patterns of the era. Into the Blue Beyond is a beautiful, gripping, and dramatic story of hope and fear.