Salve Regina

In Salve Regina I found lively and intense dialogues between the lead characters. The authors have weaved, in a 300-plus page book, three marvelous and distinct stories, each one completing the others. The first story is the plot itself, developing the intrigue and suspense (with its religious, political and police components, and the tireless sleuths, led by Marisa and followed by Erin, Pablo and Brother Zigi). The second story is Marisa's life, her memories, her romance with Arturo, Pablo's father, her married life and its ups and downs with Carlos, her husband, her adventures... The third story, the most beautiful and gentlest of all, the life and travails of the nun: her life; full yet plagued with anguish and loneliness… Sister Thomas Marie (unbelievably sweet). I love Marisa, mischievous, smart, gutsy, brave, almost flippant. Her fling with Pablo wraps her in a touch of exquisite erotism (without doing anything, without saying a word). A very appealing novel that rings true. It is rich in knowledge of very specific historical facts, some of them new to me. The intensity, action and intrigue grow in the final chapters: The humiliation at the Homeland Security offices, and the meaningless interrogation, the belligerent tone of the agent and his stubbornness. Prince Nikolai, despite his wealth, wandering, without a throne, alone and abandoned by all except for his most unconditional circle. I must acknowledge that the authors have poured their feelings into this book; as an example, the splendid finale suffices, full of forgiveness and joy. Sincerely, although wanted, I wouldn't have understood a different ending. I have not elaborated on Arturo. He is present throughout the novel, but we only meet him in the end (at the right moment). Despite everything and despite Pablo's almost contempt for his father, I empathize with Arturo. He has been a man who simply has not known how to show his love for his son; a son whom he clearly loves and adores. The characters are alive. It is no coincidence that the authors are such successful writers.