Set against the backdrop of the Mexican revolution, Last Train from Cuernavaca, is the story of two very different women, the men they love and their deep feelings for Mexico: Grace Knight, a widowed British ex-patriot, has fallen for Captain Federico Martín while he was billeted in her Hotel Colonial where the Mexican elite and foreigners meet and mingle and sixteen year old Angel Sanchez whose intrepid nature and love for Antonio has led her to join the rebel forces of Emiliano Zapata. At a pivotal point in the revolution the paths of Grace and Angel cross leading to some dramatic and harrowing circumstances. The strength and fortitude of the two women stand them in good stead but they fear for not only their own survival but also the fate of their country. Among the rebels and the Federales, conflicting loyalties abound, making the story not only one of revolution and romance but also intrigue, double dealing and peril. I couldn't wait to see how it ended! The author's afterword is worth reading as it contains some interesting historical information. Although this is a work of fiction, the story is based upon the lives of two real women set in this time frame and location. My knowledge of the Mexican revolution is almost non-existent so this was most helpful. Told from Grace's and Angel's perspectives, Robson achieves a smooth transition between the two. The excellent quality of Robson's characterizations will have me looking for more of this talented writer's work. I thoroughly enjoyed the pace and plot of the story and would highly recommend the book. 4****
Disclosure: A review copy of the book was provided by GoodReads.
This does sound interesting but I don't know if it's a book for me although I usually like anything historical. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteLovely review! You don't get to read about Mexican history much in books, and I'd love to learn more about it. I'll have to try this book sometime!
ReplyDeleteI know little about the Mexican revolution, but the fact that the book is based on real people piques my interest.
ReplyDeleteI love good historical fiction. I don't believe I've ever read one set in Mexico. Time for me to step out of the old box. The story sound excellent. Thanks for recommending it.
ReplyDeleteFirst I've heard of this book; sounds intriguing though.
ReplyDeleteOh wow, I haven't heard of this one. It's most certainly going to the top of my "to buy" list!
ReplyDeleteI always love reading the notes from the author's. Sometimes I think they should put those in the front!! Sounds pretty interesting and I know next to nothing about the Mexican revolution!!
ReplyDeleteI know nothing about the Mexican revolution too. Nice to know it provides some background.
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