It was interesting to read about the history of Puerto Rico. Ana is a strong main character and is obsessed with owning a sugar cane plantation. She puts the plantation above her marriages, parents, friends, & children and this wasn't so believable. I'm not sure why the author wanted/needed Migual to die before he could get to know his mother and see what she'd accomplished. I would rate this 3.5. (Very similar style of writing to Isabelle Allende, but the characters are less believable.) I would like to give this novel a 2.5, but that is not an option. One positive thing I will say is that the book is written better than many historical fiction novels, and the main female protagonist is not some romance-minded bubble head. Also, the author does a good job of relaying the inhumanity and brutality of slavery. Having said those things, the novel was difficult to read because many of the themes were disturbing and the hacienda owners were all so unlikable. Some parts of the novel bordered on trashy, which I felt cheapened the book. I hated the ending because I felt like the author was leaving it open for a sequel. It's an interesting read, as I felt like I learned a little about Puerto Rico, but I am not sure I would bother with a sequel if there is one or if one is published.
What do You think about Conquistadora (2011)?
It was a well-written book. Reminded me of one of my favorite authors, Isabelle Allende.
—lovebug
The story was okay. Descriptions of scenery and life on the plantation made it better.
—neha
Couldn't finish it. Too slow. Might try again.
—kate
