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What will you see when you look back on your life?

Violetta was born during the Spanish Flu pandemic on a stormy day 1920 and at 100 years old during the coronavirus pandemic she is writing to her grandson as her life winds down. In her writing, she tells of her childhood years, being the first girl born after five sons. She lives an affluent life until the Great Depression and her family suffers immeasurable losses.

The only thing to do is to move on, and start over in a quieter, remote area where she will mature, grow, have a suitor, and begin a life full of many triumphs and sorrows. She writes of family, of love, of loss, of hardship, and joy. She has seen and experienced many things in her lifetime - pandemics, wars, love affairs, the fight for women's rights, loss, motherhood, achievements, advancements of science, poverty, wealth, and peace. She has lived a full and long life.

Isabel Allende blew me away with Inés of My Soul. It was the first book I have ever read by her many years ago and it is still my favorite. Allende writes of women who overcome obstacles against the odds, they are all on some journey both emotionally and physically, they have an inner strength, intelligence and find a way to live life on their terms.

Allende is a gifted writer and storyteller. You know when you pick up one of her books that you are in good hands. As she weaves her tales, I find myself immersed in the world she has created. Her descriptions are vivid and lush.

If you haven't read a book by Allende, do yourself a favor and give her a read. This book is a good place to start.

Thank you to Random House/Ballantine and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

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