Next Year in Havana
2018

Ratings24

Average rating4

15

Wow! I absolutely love this book. I was expecting a romance novel, but I was surprised by how much historical fiction is involved in this story. I learned a great deal about Cuba that I didn't already know, so that makes this book a great historical fiction read for me.

The book has two storylines that take place in different time periods. In present day, Marisol is returning to Havana to spread her grandmother's ashes in her homeland. In the 1958 timeline, Marisol's grandmother Elisa, then a young woman, is living through the revolution that leads to Fidel Castro's reign in Cuba. Marisol's visit to Cuba is eye opening for her. She learns much about the still tumultuous political climate in Cuba after Castro's death while also discovering the truth about Elisa's romance with a revolutionary.

Both storylines involve a romance. For me, the romance from the past storyline is more interesting and engaging. Elisa's relationship is both inspiring and heartbreaking. Marisol's romance in the present day timeline develops a bit quickly for my likely. It feels less authentic. However, it is through that relationship that the reader learns a lot about the current climate of Cuba.

My favorite part of this book is the history that it teaches. There is a lot to learn from the events depicted in this story. I appreciate that it is written by someone whose family lived through some of the events described in the book. After reading this story, I want to research more about Cuba's history.

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I didn't expect to love it as much as I do. I would highly recommend it any reader who enjoys historical fiction and wants to learn a bit more about Cuba's culture and history.

December 6, 2020Report this review