Francisco Goldman, one of the most talented and award-winning writers of his generation, released his third novel, The Divine Husband, to wide and rapturous acclaim. Beginning with a single, possibly scandalous love poem by Jose Marti, Cuba’s greatest revolutionary-poet-hero with an infamous secret love life, The Divine Husband is the story of Maria de las Nieves Moran, a former nun forced out of her convent by a revolution in a Central American capital.While making her way in this metropolis nicknamed “The Little Paris,” she enrolls in a writing class taught by Jose Marti, under whose spell Maria de las Nieves and her classmates quickly fall. Soon after, Maria de las Nieves flees her home for New York, where Marti has also relocated?a crucial interval that shaped Marti’s consciousness. Nearly a century later, an elderly woman in Massachusetts hires a college student to investigate her claim that she is the illegitimate offspring of Marti and Maria de las Nieves.Mixing a lovingly re-created historical past with often hilarious, ironic, and moving conjecture that brings to life an unforgettable heroine and her remarkable collection of friends, nemeses, and rival suitors, The Divine Husband is a magnificent American novel.
Step into a world of historical intrigue, passionate romance, and laugh-out-loud humor with Francisco Goldman's acclaimed novel, *The Divine Husband*. This captivating tale, celebrated for its rich prose and unforgettable characters, weaves together the lives of a former nun, a revolutionary poet, and a family secret that spans generations. At the heart of the story is Maria de las Nieves Moran, a woman forced to reinvent herself after a revolution upends her life in a Central American capital. Seeking refuge and purpose in "The Little Paris," she finds herself drawn to the charismatic Jose Marti, Cuba's revered revolutionary-poet, who teaches a writing class that ignites her imagination and awakens her heart. The connection between them is undeniable, but their paths are destined to diverge as Maria de las Nieves flees to New York, unknowingly following Marti, embarking on a transformative period that will forever shape their destinies. Decades later, in Massachusetts, an elderly woman harbors a secret, a lifelong belief that she is the illegitimate descendant of Marti and Maria de las Nieves. Driven by a desire to uncover the truth, she hires a college student to investigate her family history, setting in motion a chain of events that will unearth hidden passions, long-buried secrets, and the enduring legacy of a remarkable love affair. Francisco Goldman masterfully blends meticulously researched historical details with imaginative conjecture, creating a vibrant and immersive world that captures the spirit of the era. *The Divine Husband* is more than just a historical novel; it's a coming-of-age story, a romantic comedy, and a literary mystery all rolled into one. With wit, charm, and a touch of satire, Goldman explores themes of identity, love, loss, and the power of storytelling. Critics have lauded Goldman's ability to bring historical figures to life, imbuing them with humanity and vulnerability. The novel's exploration of Jose Marti's life and work adds depth and complexity to the narrative, while Maria de las Nieves' journey of self-discovery is both inspiring and relatable. The supporting cast of characters, from rival suitors to loyal friends, adds richness and texture to the story, creating a tapestry of human connections that resonates long after the final page is turned. *The Divine Husband* is a must-read for fans of literary fiction, historical romance, and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted tale that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Prepare to be swept away by Goldman's masterful storytelling and the unforgettable world he creates in *The Divine Husband*. This "Main" edition paperback, published by Atlantic Books, contains 480 pages of captivating prose.