
Beverly C. (
bevychap) wrote on 1/28/2007...
6 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is one of those rare books that I can appreciate both on a literary level at the same time as I wallow in the romance and suspense. [Warning: cliche coming] I couldn't put it down! Seriously, you have to read this one - and ignore all her others, Allende appears to be a one book author.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Amazing book! I have read and reread it. Of particular interest to me were the descriptions of Gold Rush era towns from Sacramento to the Foothills. From a historical viewpoint of those towns the descriptions are amazingly accurate. I would and have recommended this book to others.

Joy S. (
Slim) wrote on 5/2/2007...
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Engrossing story begins in Chile and ends in California, touches on every-day life in Chile, shipping, prostitutes, the Gold Rush and Chinese herbal medicine. And, it's well written.

Adrienne D. (
taiko) wrote on 4/15/2007...
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
historical novel of life during the mid 1800's. an orphan raised by a victorian spinster, follows her heart on a momentous journey to the wild frontiers of California during the gold rush. Oprah's book club.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I had no trouble finishing this book but didn't find the characters particularly memorable. It was interesting reading about the early days of the California gold rush, particularly as seen through the eyes of a non-Caucasian immigrant. I never realized the gold rush had such an international effect! Book is well written: I am glad I read it.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I really loved this book and would recommend it to anyone. Most of the story takes place in California during the Gold Rush. This gal writes a really good story!
Genny
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Great historial novel of a time and place I knew little about. Chile in the mid-1800's and California during that same period. A strong woman who used her head as well as her heart. Well written. Recommended. M3

P. E. (
Philly) wrote on 7/8/2008...
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
One of the better books I've read this year. Historical fiction with strong,determined female protagonist. Takes you from society in Chile in the mid 19th century to the California Gold Rush. Alot of racial overtones.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I haven't read this book. The cover describes it as a "historical novel, a sweeping portrait of an unconvential woman carving her own destiny in an era defined by violence, passion, and adventure."

Jeanne M. (
silybum) wrote on 6/23/2006...
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Don't usually go for Allende novels, but this one was very interesting. Great historic setting with a great story. Enjoyed very much.