The tale turns on the extraordinary extent to which concealed Judaism had gained footing at that period in Spain.

It is marked by much power of description, and by a woman's delicacy of touch, and it will add to its writer's well-earned reputation."-- _Eclectic Review._ "The scene of this interesting tale is laid during the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella.

The Vale of Cedars is the retreat of a Jewish family, compelled by persecution to perform their religions rites with the utmost secrecy.

On the singular position of this fated race in the most Catholic land of Europe, the interest of the tale mainly depends; whilst a few glimpses of the horrors of the terrible Inquisition are afforded the reader, and heighten the interest of the narrative."-- _Sharpe's Magazine._ "Any thing which proceeds from the pen of the authoress of this volume is sure to command attention and appreciation.

There is so much of delicacy and refinement about her style, and each a faithful delineation of nature in all she attempts, that she has taken her place amongst the highest class of modern writers of fiction.