This book was fantastic! I studied Allende at University in a magical realism course and thoroughly enjoyed her writing style - this novel didn't disappoint either.

Though it wasn't quite what I expected, the introduction/foreword alone had me hooked. She creates such vivid characters who bubble with life and depth and paints such a brutally honest picture of Venezuela and Chile that you can't help but fall a little bit in love.

The story was heartbreaking, uplifting and powerful, and whilst the plot is not one I relate to (as in, I'm not the child/descendant of immigrants and have never been imprisoned or ostracised) I finished the book with a surge of energy and a desire to make change. I can't recommend this one enough to anyone who loves books that pack a punch and hook you and/or fans of historical fiction. Allende is such a beautiful writer and I'm excited to read more of her work.