Of Love and Shadows by Isabel Allende

[Rhianna]

Of Love and Shadows is Allende's second novel following The House of the Spirits, it takes place in an unknown South American country which has been overcome by a dictatorship. It is a love story between a passionate journalist, Irene Beltran, and a Psychologist/Photographer Francisco Leal who is also a member of the underground resistance movement. The story showcases the struggle between classes as well as highlights the social issues that come from dictatorship. I.e. brutal murder of civilians, and the fear that comes from being a part of the resistance. Irene and Francisco grow in love for each other as they fight to uncover the hidden murders of the military, risking their lives and the lives of their loved ones in the process. Ultimately this book discusses the themes of personal bravery and integrity, family, faith, and love for one's homeland. I would hesitate to teach this book for the fact that it has a few "love-making" passages that are very sensual and a discussion of incest. There is also a passage that alludes to the rape and murder of a fifteen year old sickly girl by a military leader. There are some very strong images and while I would not necessarily teach it in my classroom, I do think it is a beautifully crafted piece which does an excellent job at portraying the resiliency of the Hispanic heart.