John Thorndike

I am not very familiar with Cuban history. Yet, I enjoy reading historical books. Although, like many Americans I am familiar with the name Fidel Castro. Yet, as the book summary states, I am not familiar with the name Camilo Cienfuegos.

Instantly, I could tell that Mr. Thorndike is a talented writer. Right from the beginning, I was transported to Cuba from the descriptions of the scenery to the people. From the first introduction, I became a fan of Clare. She had a feisty spirit, even through she was in a foreign country. Plus, she came off as kind and the type of person that I would want to hang out with. Her and Camilo's relationship was filled with "real love". Sure, Camilo could have any woman or women that he wanted but the first time that they had sex; he was actually aware of Clare's feelings.

Additionally, this book shows the relationship between Camilo and Castro with Castro's rise into power. Anyone looking to read a really good book that is rich in storytelling as well as the people should pick up a copy of this book.… (more)

Moderately interesting story that takes place partly in northern Maine in potato country, which is the main reason i picked this up at a book sale......however the marital drama soon drags us to Mexico (the country, not Mexico, Maine!) and then to Tuscon, AZ.....and it all gets a little tedious. I learned a little about spuds that was somewhat interesting and a lot about this couple's sex life, which was not! There was an element of wondering how it would all turn out, which was not necessarily obvious, which i did appreciate.… (more)