This is the debut novel by Mexican writer, Sofia Robleda. Sofia writes beautifully and reminds me so much of Isabel Allende's writing style. Both write with vivid storytelling, strong emotion, and magical realism.
This is an educational book about the history of Mexico and Central America as well as the horrific things the Spanish colonists and conquistadors did to the native peoples. It is not always an easy book to read, but it is important to be educated about these times so that we never repeat them.
OVERALL REVIEW: 4.5 stars
Writing: 4.5 stars
Sofia writes in such lyrical and poetic prose. It is just beautiful writing. It was important to read this book and to be educated about Southern Mexico and Central America. This book explores the time about twenty years after the arrival of the conquistadores which was not fully covered in any history class I took.
Character development: 4.0 stars
There were four main characters - Catalina (daughter of Don Alonso), Juan (native chief), Cristóbal (native and godson of Don Alonso), and Don Alonso (President of Guatemala and Spanish colonialist). These four characters weaved a strong story with detailed information about each character. They were all fascinating characters on their own merit.
There are a lot of secondary characters including Catalina's mother, the household workers, Spanish aristocrats/conquistadores, town villagers, and native peoples.
The tertiary character is Popol Vuh which is the history, treasured artifact, and holy book of the indigenous people in the area.
Storyline: 4.0 stars
The storyline was fascinating! It was about the protection and preservation of the Popol Vuh. Learning about the cultures and history of the area was informative, yet horrifying at times.
My only issue was when the storyline went into the realm of magical realism. It was difficult to understand who all the gods, goddesses, and demons were in the native spiritual world and what they represented. I would have liked to know more about this aspect of the book which could have been highlighted better or covered in an addendum. Finally, a glossary of terms would have been helpful for the indigenous language words and the more obscure Spanish words not in Google Translate.
The main location is colonial Guatemala.
Memorable/Informative: 4.5 stars
Many parts of this book disgusted me including the complete and utter destruction of the native culture, language, religion, and artifacts by the Spanish. I will remember all of this forever.
Book cover: 5.0 stars
Pretty and perfect.
Book title: 5.0 stars
Loved it!
HIGHLY recommend
BOOK INFORMATION
Amazon First Reads Kindle ebook
Daughter of Fire by Sofia Robleda
280 pages
Amazon Crossing
Release date of 08/1/2024
INFORMATIONAL LINKS
Amazon First Reads - July 2024
Happy reading,
Dorothea 💜
P.S. I apologize for not updating the book blog lately. But, I was not reading at all as I was sick!
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