Allende’s debut novel follows multiple generations to divulge into the story of the Trueba family. Set in pre-revolution through post-revolution Chile, Allende’s chilling novel pairs magic realism perfectly with the harsh reality of history. Allende creates a multitude of strong characters that allow you to love, to hate, and to explore the balance between the two extremes. The House of the Spirits is a beautiful novel you won’t want to put down.

Dreaming in Cuba follows the del Pino family as they navigate polar political ideologies surrounding the Castro regime. Set in both America and Cuba, this fiery novel navigates the space between past and present, homeland and emigration. García boasts a cast of strong female characters spanning over three generations. This book is definitely good for the soul.

Such a marvelous and tragic tale. In the Time of the Butterflies is based on the true story of the Mirabal sisters. If you haven’t heard of them, Alvarez’s novel is a great place to start! Heart-breaking and invigorating, this story of four sisters and their family, fighting for their freedom against the Trujillo regime in the Dominican Republic, does not disappoint. ¡Viva la mariposa!

Santiago envisions the tale of a female conquistador in Puerto Rico. The novel’s protagonist is full of grit and perseverance. She is a true antiheroine in the best of ways. This novel takes you on a journey to witness the sweat and tears that went into creating our modern-day worlds. Santiago’s imagined depiction of this historical tale is so vivid you could almost believe she lived it.

Another amazing novel by Allende this story follows a family as they flee a war-torn Spain, post-civil war to make a better life in Chile. A Long Petal of the Sea is an unconventional love story. From tragedy, Allende creates harmony between an unlikely pair. This novel is a beautiful story of overcoming one’s greatest obstacles.

Another unconventional love story, The City of Palaces focuses on the transience of love past classes, religion, and beauty. Set in Mexico before the civil war, Nava divulges the lives of two unlikely souls to share lives. This novel keeps you turning page after page and wraps you deep into the history of Mexico. A departure from his typical detective novels, Nava shows that he can shine in any genre.