Spain and Its Achilles’ Heels is a well-argued, entertaining stimulus to thought and debate.

Bulletin of Spanish Studies

Koldo Casla has written a sophisticated and well-written account of four historical vulnerabilities. This is a must-read for scholars and students interested in contemporary Spain.

Diego Muro, Senior Lecturer in International Relations, University of St Andrews, Co-editor of the Oxford Handbook of Spanish Politics

After years of original thinking and careful examination of Spain, Koldo Casla offers an up-to-date, comprehensive and critical view of Spanish politics. Written in a reader-friendly manner, this book will be a reference not only for those interested in Spain, but also for those who care about the traces of the past in contemporary politics in new democracies. I cannot think of a better point of entry to understand contemporary Spanish politics.

Ignacio Lago, Professor of Political Science at Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Co-editor of the Oxford Handbook of Spanish Politics

In order to understand Spain properly, one must read this book. Its rigorous analysis and the abundant and detailed information about Spain’s recent history are key to make sense of the problems, the good attributes and the deficiencies of the country. What’s truly typical about Spain are, in fact, the four vulnerabilities covered in this book.

Iñigo Lamarca, former High Commissioner for Human Rights in the Basque Country (2004-2014)

In Spain and its Achilles' Heels: The Strong Foundations of a Country’s Weaknesses, Koldo Casla offers in a very challenging way the main flaws of modern democratic Spain. His thoughtful arguments about the role played by historical legacies help to illuminate the challenges of the present.

Pablo Simón, Assistant Professor at Universidad Carlos III, Madrid

Combining personal anecdotes with deeper analysis, this book provides an excellent insight into what makes Spanish politics tick. Written in an engaging and highly readable style, it will appeal to a broad audience interested in understanding Spain today.

Caroline Gray, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, Aston University