The historical narrative often overlooks the fact that during the Spanish Civil War, not all military forces opposed the Republic. In contrast to the common perception that the entire army was aligned with Franco's Nationalists, certain factions, including portions of the army and the Civil Guard, remained loyal to the Republican government. This loyalty played a crucial role in the dynamics of the conflict, challenging the simplistic view of widespread support for the Nationalists.

Arturo Pérez-Reverte's work emphasizes the complexity of the situation, revealing that there were divisions within the military ranks. The existence of loyalist troops highlights the nuanced reality of the civil strife, suggesting that the struggle for the Republic was not a lost cause from the outset. By shedding light on these loyal elements, the author enriches our understanding of the Spanish Civil War and the diverse loyalties and motivations at play during this tumultuous period.