My Name Is Emilia del Valle Hardcover – 6 May 2025

Once again Allende has managed to deliver a captivating tale. Her knowledge and love for Chile are clearly evident. A tale told from the perspective of a woman in an era when women seldom ventured beyond the ‘safety’ of domesticity are indeed both interesting and believable. Various beliefs are touched upon and she subtly weaves her tale around these without allowing them to dominate the narrative. Characters come to life and it is easy to use all one’s senses to feel their presence (even those who take but a few lines help make Emillia’s experiences more vivid. For a reader who knows little about the history of Chile this book provides an easy and entertaining introduction. The descriptions of the country inspire one to want to travel there to see it first hand and possibly embark on a personal spiritual journey.

A historic and personal view of Chile

An amazing book, I couldn’t put it down. She is a total genius

More clichéd and superficial than previous books that I have read

Allende at her best. This is a phenomenal novel brimming with gorgeously rich characters and an arcing historical story that kept me enthralled throughout. Beautifully ended.

Not her best

In this story Allende returns to her, Chile, and through the character and story of Emilia once again gives voice to her profound love of her homeland. Her writing brings Chile’s history to life as she tells the story of Emilia’s past and participation in huge events that shape the modern country from its colonial past. Masterful writing as Allende storytelling at its best

This is a really good read - well up to her usual standard