Daughter of Fortune

This was the first book I had read by Isabel Allende and it will not be the last. She is an outstanding writer and this book kept me captivated from the very first page. I enjoyed the various characters, especially the bravery of Eliza, the intriguing world of Mama Freesia, Miss Rose who really is not the prude she is made out to be and the lifestyles of Captain John and Eliza's Asian comprade. The story gives wonderful insight into life in South America in the mid 1800's and what one strong willed woman will do in support of finding her lover. The two month trip aboard the ship to San Francisco was exciting and when Eliza does arrive in CA it gave a wonderful description of life in the midst of the gold rush. I found the author's style especially pleasing and very easy to read. She captured my interest from page one! I was sad to finish the book but have just purchased another of her novels--I cannot wait to read that! You will enjoy this book!

I absolutely loved this book. Allende takes us through a fabulous journey through the young eyes of this amazing woman, Eliza Sommers. Eliza is courageous, adventurous and full of life. I found the background on the Gold Rush and the early years of California fascinating. Even though the end leaves you wondering some things, it is parallel to what the book is all about -- the world out there which is unknown to all of us. Beautiful piece of work. I highly recommend it.

Una delicia para leer, sin embargo, quedan al menos cuatro asuntos en el aire ante tan abrupto final. Me gustaria que la autora escribiera una segunda parte de esta novela.

I love the character of Eliza Sommers, is as usual as strong as the other protagonist of her stories, just as I imagine the author. and I really think that Allende has an extraordinary imagination, and her magic is phenomenal.