MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW
"Last Seen in Havana" by Teresa Dovalpage is a tantalizing mystery that unfolds against the vibrant and enigmatic backdrop of Havana, Cuba. The novel introduces readers to a captivating blend of intrigue, culture, and complex characters, making it a compelling addition to the mystery genre.
The story follows the character of Detective Marlene Martínez as she navigates the rich tapestry of Havana, solving a puzzling case involving a missing American woman. Dovalpage skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, culture, and history, creating a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
One of the strengths of the novel lies in its atmospheric setting. Dovalpage brings Havana to life with vivid descriptions, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the city's streets, culture, and people. The backdrop of Cuba adds a unique and exotic flavor to the mystery, making it a standout in the genre.
Detective Marlene Martínez is a well-crafted protagonist with a depth of character that adds layers to the story. As she unravels the mystery, readers are drawn into her world, experiencing the complexities of both the investigation and her personal life. The author's ability to create relatable and authentic characters enhances the overall appeal of the novel.
The mystery itself is intricately plotted, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. Dovalpage skillfully integrates elements of Cuban history and culture into the investigation, providing a rich and immersive experience for the reader.
Additionally, "Last Seen in Havana" explores themes beyond the mystery genre, including the nuances of relationships, cultural identity, and the impact of political and historical events on individuals. These thematic layers add depth and substance to the narrative, elevating the novel beyond a typical mystery.
Teresa Dovalpage's writing style is engaging and evocative, capturing the essence of Havana while maintaining a brisk pace that propels the story forward. The novel is a delightful blend of mystery and cultural exploration, making it a standout choice for readers who appreciate a compelling mystery set in a richly detailed and exotic locale.
In conclusion, "Last Seen in Havana" is a well-crafted and immersive mystery that successfully blends cultural elements with a gripping storyline. Teresa Dovalpage's ability to transport readers to the streets of Havana, coupled with a compelling protagonist and a meticulously plotted mystery, makes this novel a must-read for mystery enthusiasts and those who enjoy a touch of cultural exploration in their literary journeys.
Thanks to Netgalley and Rachel's Random Resources for an advance copy of my honest review
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BOOK DESCRIPTION
A Cuban American woman searches for her long-lost mother and fights to restore a beautiful but crumbling Art Deco home in the heart of Havana in this moving, immersive new mystery, perfect for fans of Of Women and Salt.
In 2019, newly widowed baker Mercedes Spivey flies from Miami to her native Cuba to care for her ailing paternal grandmother. Mercedes’s life has been shaped by loss, beginning with the mysterious unsolved disappearance of her mother when Mercedes was a little girl. Returning to Cuba revives Mercedes’s hopes of finding her mother as she attempts to piece together the few scraps of information she has. Could her mother still be alive?
33 years earlier, an American college student with endless political optimism falls deliriously in love with a handsome Cuban soldier while on a spontaneous visit to the island. She decides to stay permanently, but soon discovers that nothing is as it seems in Havana.
The two women’s stories proceed in parallel as Mercedes gets closer to discovering the truth about her mother, uncovering shocking family secrets in the process . . .
About Teresa Dovalpage
Writer, translator and college professor, Teresa Dovalpage is a Cuban transplant firmly rooted in New Mexico. She is the author of twelve novels, among them the Havana Mystery series, three short story collections and four theater plays. She lives with her husband, one dog and too many barn cats.
Follow Teresa Dovalpage
Blog in English https://teredovalpage.com/
Blog in Spanish: https://teresadovalpage.com/
Link to book(s) on Amazon:
Amazon kindle
Amazon hardcover
Audiobook
Genre: Mystery
Tour Dates: 6th - 12th February 2024
Publication Date: 6th February 2024
Standalone 4th book in the Havana Mystery series
Estimated Page Count - 360
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