I've lived in Spain for ten years and I never fail to be fascinated by its people, culture and history. The book grew out of my interest in the history of the Spanish Civil War and also having the chance to visit most of the main locations. Of course, having the chance to travel around Spain meant I could indulge in another of my interests - enjoying Spanish food and wine. One of the highlights of a visit to Granada was sitting in a terrace bar, looking across at the Alhambra palace and drinking a glass of chilled manzanilla.