I wasn't sure how to rate this book,at first I wan't too crazy about it but the more I read the more absored I got! It was a bit confusing to read at first but then I quickly realized that she was writing it like a diary! Eliza's diary! I'm really glad there is a part 2 to the book,I was frusrated by the ending and I'm sure many are. But this is agood book and I recommed it to anybody for a summer and winter reading.

I thought it was an enchanting story of freedom and personal conquests, it captivated me and I couldn't put it down

A good, easy read but still the same old romance novel. I was left disappointed with the ending, I wished it would have been more definitive. I have a hard time seeing the two characters together. I would compare it to Danielle Steel novels. They are fun to read yet somewhat lacking in substance. I thought some of the sexual descripitions were not needed for the story line. I think the sexual references would have been better had it been more about love and less about self-fulfiment.

What could have been a brilliant work of fiction, what with its thorough research and exquisite writing, becomes instead a trashy novel, filled with immoral sexual activity and explicit pornographic details. Also a turnoff is the implied negativity aimed at Catholicism and the praise of witchcraft. Even Allende's ethereal way with words is not enough to atone for the pre-marital sexual activity. My recommendation: do not read this book; instead take up the Alexander Cold series -- well-written, imaginative and, best of all, clean.

I STRONGLY dislike this book. I am an avid reader but the strong sexual commentation in the book turns me away. I am seriously questioning wether or not I can finish the book, but I have to for english. If you do not like reading don't read this book. If you love reading don't read this book unless you 30-40 years of age. It just wont appeal to you.