Publisher's Synopsis
THE BROTHERS LUNA is a novel based on historical facts intertwined with a compelling story of romance, passion, friendship, intrigue, murder, espionage, war and the arts. Two brothers. One cause. Both willing to die for the freedom of the Philippines from foreign rule. Juan and Antonio Luna find themselves in late 19th century Europe after taking advantage of the Royal Education Decree of 1863, which allowed native Filipinos to be fully educated in the school system across Spain's colonial islands as well as in the major universities of Europe. After attending the Academia de Bellas Artes in Madrid, Juan Luna astonishes the European art scene by garnering numerous gold medals in various highly acclaimed art competitions. Antonio Luna becomes a pharmacist, but passion for reform inspires him to become a propagandist' and later, a general in the army, and the fearless soul of integrity of the Philippine revolutionary forces. In the aftermath of personal tragedy for Juan Luna, the brothers seek a new beginning, but are unknowingly caught in a web of political intrigue and rebellion against Spain's colonial authorities controlled by the powerful Dominican friars. As general, Antonio leads his soldiers into combat against the powerful invading American forces under General Arthur MacArthur. However, deprived of authority by his President, Antonio Luna's fiery temper and fighting spirit result in betrayal and tragedy. Juan Luna vows revenge but falls into a deep depression to a point of sheer madness, and eventually, returns to the Philippines to face his destiny.
