This classic had been on my TBR for ages, and I finally felt ready to dive into Isabel Allende’s signature blend of magical realism and richly layered characters. I went in not knowing much beyond her reputation as a gifted storyteller, which left me unprepared for the heavy themes, including rape and violence, that unfold—particularly in the early chapters centered around the deeply problematic Esteban. The prose is undeniably powerful, almost overwhelmingly so at times. I initially struggled to keep track of the characters until I found a family tree that helped anchor the narrative. The second half, especially Alba’s storyline, pulled me in and gave me the emotional momentum I needed to finish. A compelling read for those who appreciate introspective, multigenerational sagas that explore the depth and complexity of human emotion.