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What They Said About Luisa
An enchanting telling of the complex and fascinating life of real-life Luisa Abrego of Seville, who forges a new life after freedom from slavery in colonial Mexico and gets caught in the far-reaching Spanish Inquisition.
Luisa Abrego, a slave in Seville, is set free upon her master’s death and marries a white man. After boarding Luisa’s illegitimate child with the nuns of St. Clare, the couple sets out for Mexico. There Luisa is accused of bigamy and tried in the court of the Inquisition.
This is, however, not Luisa’s own the narratives here are those of historical figures who encountered her, from nuns to silver miners to Inquisitors. These are European voices, the recorded voices of history, in whose accounts a fractured portrait of a fascinating and complex woman emerges, like glimpses of a figure moving past a mirror.
Based on 16th century trial records of the real Luisa, this novel is not just one woman’s life in fragments, but a carefully researched imagining, told in vivid, distinct voices, of how the Inquisition affected the Spanish colonies.
Luisa Abrego, a slave in Seville, is set free upon her master’s death and marries a white man. After boarding Luisa’s illegitimate child with the nuns of St. Clare, the couple sets out for Mexico. There Luisa is accused of bigamy and tried in the court of the Inquisition.
This is, however, not Luisa’s own the narratives here are those of historical figures who encountered her, from nuns to silver miners to Inquisitors. These are European voices, the recorded voices of history, in whose accounts a fractured portrait of a fascinating and complex woman emerges, like glimpses of a figure moving past a mirror.
Based on 16th century trial records of the real Luisa, this novel is not just one woman’s life in fragments, but a carefully researched imagining, told in vivid, distinct voices, of how the Inquisition affected the Spanish colonies.
312 pages, Paperback
Published June 18, 2024
1 person is currently reading
2859 people want to read
About the author
Erika Rummel
45 books23 followersErika Rummel has taught history at University of Toronto and Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo. She divides her time between Toronto and Los Angeles and has lived in villages in Argentina, Romania, and Bulgaria. The author of more than a dozen books of non-fiction, she has written extensively on social history. She is also the author of two novels, Playing Naomi and Head Games. She was awarded the Random House Creative Writing Award, 2011, for an excerpt of The Effects of Isolation on the Brain.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 23, 2024
What They Said About Louisa, is exactly that. A collection of impressions and interactions from chosen people from Louisa’s life.
The book begins in Spain when Louisa is sixteen. She is a black slave who has become pregnant by her master. Upon his death he grants her her freedom. But how is she to care for herself and her child? She happens to meet a white man who proposes marriage to her. He wants a helpmate to go with him to Mexico while he starts up a silver mining business. She agrees but has to leave her son behind.
The book is interesting in that Louisa is never given a voice. Everything I learned about Louisa was all from each persons bias, ignorance or brief knowledge of her. One thing that was hard for me to get used to was that each person seemed to have a similar voice. I imagine that this is because it’s the same author but it felt a bit unrealistic.
So many tragic things happened to the people in this book. I was wondering when anyone would get a break! But I guess that during the inquisition nobody is going to be let off the hook!
I have never read about this era. I was surprised at the strange rules of the Catholic Church. The fact that they set up a whole system of spies to police people and get them to report their neighbors was scary. Kind of like the communists but with sins?!
Because Louisa was black, she was ostracized in Spain. I thought it would be better in Mexico but it was just the same. Most people in the community looked upon her as a slovenly, half-breed slave. Because she was very beautiful but quiet they decided she was a tease and a whore. Poor Louisa!
I wish I could have heard Louisa’s side of the story but the book is based on paperwork from the trial of the real Louisa.
I thought the book was interesting and gave it a 3.5 rounded up.
Trigger warnings: sex, child abuse, lewd acts, racism and misogyny.
Many thanks to Erika Rummel and Dundrun press for the ARC via NetGalley!!
The book begins in Spain when Louisa is sixteen. She is a black slave who has become pregnant by her master. Upon his death he grants her her freedom. But how is she to care for herself and her child? She happens to meet a white man who proposes marriage to her. He wants a helpmate to go with him to Mexico while he starts up a silver mining business. She agrees but has to leave her son behind.
The book is interesting in that Louisa is never given a voice. Everything I learned about Louisa was all from each persons bias, ignorance or brief knowledge of her. One thing that was hard for me to get used to was that each person seemed to have a similar voice. I imagine that this is because it’s the same author but it felt a bit unrealistic.
So many tragic things happened to the people in this book. I was wondering when anyone would get a break! But I guess that during the inquisition nobody is going to be let off the hook!
I have never read about this era. I was surprised at the strange rules of the Catholic Church. The fact that they set up a whole system of spies to police people and get them to report their neighbors was scary. Kind of like the communists but with sins?!
Because Louisa was black, she was ostracized in Spain. I thought it would be better in Mexico but it was just the same. Most people in the community looked upon her as a slovenly, half-breed slave. Because she was very beautiful but quiet they decided she was a tease and a whore. Poor Louisa!
I wish I could have heard Louisa’s side of the story but the book is based on paperwork from the trial of the real Louisa.
I thought the book was interesting and gave it a 3.5 rounded up.
Trigger warnings: sex, child abuse, lewd acts, racism and misogyny.
Many thanks to Erika Rummel and Dundrun press for the ARC via NetGalley!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2024
4/1/24
A solid 3 stars for this upcoming release by Erika Rummel, a story following the life of Luisa Abrego, as told from multiple perspectives of those who have met her.
This was a super fascinating concept and I loveee anything set in 16th century Spain- however, while I did really enjoy some perspectives and found them to be interesting and engaging, some others seemed less necessary and the language in which they were written did take me out of the historical setting of the story. I would have enjoyed if the final chapter had been told from Luisa's perspective, just to round off the story of her life.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel.
2/12/23
please let me get an arc 🙏
A solid 3 stars for this upcoming release by Erika Rummel, a story following the life of Luisa Abrego, as told from multiple perspectives of those who have met her.
This was a super fascinating concept and I loveee anything set in 16th century Spain- however, while I did really enjoy some perspectives and found them to be interesting and engaging, some others seemed less necessary and the language in which they were written did take me out of the historical setting of the story. I would have enjoyed if the final chapter had been told from Luisa's perspective, just to round off the story of her life.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel.
2/12/23
please let me get an arc 🙏
December 19, 2023
Emancipated Woman Throws Herself to Inquisition Because of Sinful Behavior
Bigotry, racism, elitist classism, and overt discrimination in 16th C. Spanish culture feature in Erika Rummel’s historical fiction, “What They Said About Luisa,” set in Seville and various locales in Mexico during the Inquisition.
The title of this novel expresses the storyline of this non-linear saga about real-life Luisa Abrego—a mixed-race woman and her struggles before and after freedom from slavery. Each chapter is a different person’s perspective of Luisa’s journey in self-discovery and acceptance.
Luisa is a woman of few words—and men are attracted to her silence. They also describe her countenance as beautiful, as well as her decorum and singing as ‘saintly.”
However, most women feel just the opposite. They see Luisa as a lascivious low-caste wench. Although she may not overtly expose her breasts or body to attract attention, women comment that Luisa seductively waggles her hips and shimmies when she walks to entice men.
As demonstrated above, readers are told what others think and see about Luisa’s life, rather than hear from Luisa firsthand, in her own words. Rommel also does a lot more telling in “Luisa” rather than showing. Consequently, the book is neither dialogue nor action driven. It’s mainly an expository tale that gets repetitive at times.
Since “Luisa” is historical fiction, I’m not certain how accurate the facts are in this story regarding slavery and colonialism. However, it was refreshing to have an Inquisition member represented as questioning of the practice and tolerant—although that’s probably real fiction. In Luisa’s circumstances, since she believed herself guilty of an unpardonable sin and turned herself in to the Inquisition, this was definitely in her best interests.
JoyReaderGirl1 graciously thanks NetGalley, Author Erika Rummel, and Publisher Dundurn Press for this advanced reader’s copy (ARC) for review.
Bigotry, racism, elitist classism, and overt discrimination in 16th C. Spanish culture feature in Erika Rummel’s historical fiction, “What They Said About Luisa,” set in Seville and various locales in Mexico during the Inquisition.
The title of this novel expresses the storyline of this non-linear saga about real-life Luisa Abrego—a mixed-race woman and her struggles before and after freedom from slavery. Each chapter is a different person’s perspective of Luisa’s journey in self-discovery and acceptance.
Luisa is a woman of few words—and men are attracted to her silence. They also describe her countenance as beautiful, as well as her decorum and singing as ‘saintly.”
However, most women feel just the opposite. They see Luisa as a lascivious low-caste wench. Although she may not overtly expose her breasts or body to attract attention, women comment that Luisa seductively waggles her hips and shimmies when she walks to entice men.
As demonstrated above, readers are told what others think and see about Luisa’s life, rather than hear from Luisa firsthand, in her own words. Rommel also does a lot more telling in “Luisa” rather than showing. Consequently, the book is neither dialogue nor action driven. It’s mainly an expository tale that gets repetitive at times.
Since “Luisa” is historical fiction, I’m not certain how accurate the facts are in this story regarding slavery and colonialism. However, it was refreshing to have an Inquisition member represented as questioning of the practice and tolerant—although that’s probably real fiction. In Luisa’s circumstances, since she believed herself guilty of an unpardonable sin and turned herself in to the Inquisition, this was definitely in her best interests.
JoyReaderGirl1 graciously thanks NetGalley, Author Erika Rummel, and Publisher Dundurn Press for this advanced reader’s copy (ARC) for review.
September 23, 2024
'What They Said About Luisa,' by Ericka Rummel is not just a historical fiction, but a novel that plays around with common methods of storytelling in a way that can only be described as artistic.
The context of the story revolves around one woman, a former slave named Luisa Abrego.
Luisa is an African woman who lives as a slave in sixteenth century Spain until she is freed upon the death of her master.
Of course, being freed after living your whole life as a slave was both a thrilling and frightening prospect for many young women of that time.
Completely on her own, Luisa leaves her master's house and takes work as a cleaning woman in the home of an elderly couple who are unable to leave their house.
It is while there that she meets Jorge, a sailor who is traveling to Mexico and she agrees to marry him and travel with him.
This might have been the start of a new life for Luisa, a new world full of possibilities where her skin color did not seem to matter, but unfortunately the religious politics of Spain seemed to follow her.
When Luisa admits to a priest that she had previously agreed to be married to a different man, she is soon reported to the Spanish Inquisition, and arrested.
The entirety of this story is told through the different viewpoints of the people who are affected by Luisa, like her former master's wife and the priest whom she confesses to among others.
The way Rummel plays with the conventions of normal storytelling is masterful and something that I have come to expect from her having read two of her other books.
She is truly one of the best writers working right now! Five more stars for another winner from Rummel!
The context of the story revolves around one woman, a former slave named Luisa Abrego.
Luisa is an African woman who lives as a slave in sixteenth century Spain until she is freed upon the death of her master.
Of course, being freed after living your whole life as a slave was both a thrilling and frightening prospect for many young women of that time.
Completely on her own, Luisa leaves her master's house and takes work as a cleaning woman in the home of an elderly couple who are unable to leave their house.
It is while there that she meets Jorge, a sailor who is traveling to Mexico and she agrees to marry him and travel with him.
This might have been the start of a new life for Luisa, a new world full of possibilities where her skin color did not seem to matter, but unfortunately the religious politics of Spain seemed to follow her.
When Luisa admits to a priest that she had previously agreed to be married to a different man, she is soon reported to the Spanish Inquisition, and arrested.
The entirety of this story is told through the different viewpoints of the people who are affected by Luisa, like her former master's wife and the priest whom she confesses to among others.
The way Rummel plays with the conventions of normal storytelling is masterful and something that I have come to expect from her having read two of her other books.
She is truly one of the best writers working right now! Five more stars for another winner from Rummel!
March 14, 2024
Thanks to Dundurn Press and Netgalley for giving me early access to this book for a review in return.
When I saw this book I was really fascinated by it. The cover is great and the synopsis sounded really interesting, I was so excited that I got approved to read it. This book was even better than I expected.
This book follows the life of Luisa Abrego. Once a slave who was impregnated by her master, who then marries a white man and moves to Mexico. While in Mexico she has a run in with the Spanish Inquisition, before returning back to Spain. The book is exquisitely written and researched, and is based on the 16th century trial records of the real Luisa.
The strength of this book comes from how it is told. Although Luisa is the titular character, she does not have her own perspective. It is all outside accounts of her life and the impact that she has on others. This was not what I expected going into the novel and during the first few chapters I was skeptical, but as I got further into the novel, and as more characters were introduced, I fell in love.
There is an obvious weakness with this method of storytelling, and that is that we never hear from Luisa. She is, mostly, a silent character. She is described as shy and quiet, and often doesn't speak.; That means that there is very little dialogue with her, so that it is really difficult to tell who she really is. If I could change one thing about the novel, it would be that the afterward would take place from Luisa's perspective.
The best part about this book is how unique all the different voices are. The author does a wonderful job at creating all these full and actualized characters who have distinct voices. I was really impressed that while I was reading it I could hear such distinct voices in my head for each of the characters. It takes a lot of skill to write this way.
Overall this was a very enjoyable read. The characters are wonderfully flushed out and realized, and the history in it is vivid and ever-present. I would highly recommend this book.
When I saw this book I was really fascinated by it. The cover is great and the synopsis sounded really interesting, I was so excited that I got approved to read it. This book was even better than I expected.
This book follows the life of Luisa Abrego. Once a slave who was impregnated by her master, who then marries a white man and moves to Mexico. While in Mexico she has a run in with the Spanish Inquisition, before returning back to Spain. The book is exquisitely written and researched, and is based on the 16th century trial records of the real Luisa.
The strength of this book comes from how it is told. Although Luisa is the titular character, she does not have her own perspective. It is all outside accounts of her life and the impact that she has on others. This was not what I expected going into the novel and during the first few chapters I was skeptical, but as I got further into the novel, and as more characters were introduced, I fell in love.
There is an obvious weakness with this method of storytelling, and that is that we never hear from Luisa. She is, mostly, a silent character. She is described as shy and quiet, and often doesn't speak.; That means that there is very little dialogue with her, so that it is really difficult to tell who she really is. If I could change one thing about the novel, it would be that the afterward would take place from Luisa's perspective.
The best part about this book is how unique all the different voices are. The author does a wonderful job at creating all these full and actualized characters who have distinct voices. I was really impressed that while I was reading it I could hear such distinct voices in my head for each of the characters. It takes a lot of skill to write this way.
Overall this was a very enjoyable read. The characters are wonderfully flushed out and realized, and the history in it is vivid and ever-present. I would highly recommend this book.
September 22, 2024
“I wondered how the alumbrados would fare under the watchful eye of that court of justice once it started operating in Mexico – not much better, I warrant, than under the Spanish institution whose judgment they fled.”
A fascinating look at a very controversial time in history, 'What They Said About Luisa,' takes the life of a real woman, Luisa Abrego and gives a realistic take on what the people around her might have felt. Each chapter of this novel is told from a different perspective – one person who was affected by Luisa Abrego, the former slave who became a free woman and traveled to the new world.
Luisa first learned about the concept of bigamy after traveling to Mexico with her new husband, and began to fear that she was guilty of it, herself. See, Luisa had been proposed to by another young man shortly after she was granted her freedom at the death of her master. Although the two were not married in practice, the Catholic church's rules for marriage essentially said that they were married in spirit. Luisa gave herself over to the Spanish Inquisition for trial, essentially leaving her fate in the hands of God.
Obviously, I'm not going to spoil the ending of the book, but with a writer like Ericka Rummel, even a story that you may have heard before becomes something new and exciting!
I have read a few of Rummel's other works, 'Loneliness of the Time Traveler,' 'Evita and Me,' and Inquisitor's Niece,' and every one enthralled me. Rummel has such a talent for storytelling – particularly in historical fiction – that I find myself thrilled whenever I get the opportunity to read one of her novels! I can't wait to find out what she has in store for us next!
A fascinating look at a very controversial time in history, 'What They Said About Luisa,' takes the life of a real woman, Luisa Abrego and gives a realistic take on what the people around her might have felt. Each chapter of this novel is told from a different perspective – one person who was affected by Luisa Abrego, the former slave who became a free woman and traveled to the new world.
Luisa first learned about the concept of bigamy after traveling to Mexico with her new husband, and began to fear that she was guilty of it, herself. See, Luisa had been proposed to by another young man shortly after she was granted her freedom at the death of her master. Although the two were not married in practice, the Catholic church's rules for marriage essentially said that they were married in spirit. Luisa gave herself over to the Spanish Inquisition for trial, essentially leaving her fate in the hands of God.
Obviously, I'm not going to spoil the ending of the book, but with a writer like Ericka Rummel, even a story that you may have heard before becomes something new and exciting!
I have read a few of Rummel's other works, 'Loneliness of the Time Traveler,' 'Evita and Me,' and Inquisitor's Niece,' and every one enthralled me. Rummel has such a talent for storytelling – particularly in historical fiction – that I find myself thrilled whenever I get the opportunity to read one of her novels! I can't wait to find out what she has in store for us next!
March 11, 2024
Really enjoyed the pace and writing style of the book which also provided better understanding of the situation in the world in the sixteen century. Slavery, the power of church, inquisition, lives of different people from different parts of the society, all these things were interestingly presented by Erika Rummel, a master storyteller and historian. Great story, very attractive from the beginning to the end .
December 28, 2023
This is a story told about a Mulatto slave by several people she encounters in her life, but we never hear her own voice.
The first character we meet is Luisa’s husband, but it is too brief even to begin to learn who Luisa is. The second character was so unlikeable, that I almost stopped reading this book. I’m glad that I did not.
The reader meets 10 more characters all of whom share their opinion of Luisa. Each speaks in a distinctive voice and draws out specific characteristics of this woman.
The story is based on the transcript of a trial of Luisa in the 16th-century Seville. Luisa’s life takes her from Seville to a rural Mexican mining town, and then back to Seville during the era of the Inquisition.
The twist in the plot is when Luisa self-incriminates herself to the Inquisition.
It is a story of persistence, ignorance, loyalty, sacrifice, and love. Well worth reading.
The first character we meet is Luisa’s husband, but it is too brief even to begin to learn who Luisa is. The second character was so unlikeable, that I almost stopped reading this book. I’m glad that I did not.
The reader meets 10 more characters all of whom share their opinion of Luisa. Each speaks in a distinctive voice and draws out specific characteristics of this woman.
The story is based on the transcript of a trial of Luisa in the 16th-century Seville. Luisa’s life takes her from Seville to a rural Mexican mining town, and then back to Seville during the era of the Inquisition.
The twist in the plot is when Luisa self-incriminates herself to the Inquisition.
It is a story of persistence, ignorance, loyalty, sacrifice, and love. Well worth reading.
December 5, 2023
Luisa of Seville led a fascinating life. From her early life as a slave in Spain, to her journey to Mexico after gaining her freedom, this soft spoken woman had everyone talking about her.
I loved this book. We get to hear from so many of the people Luisa encounters in her life, and what they think of her, but we never hear from Luisa herself. Such a neat way to write about a character. This was a quick read because I did not want to put it down. Absolutely a unique and highly enjoyable read.
Look for it May 21 2024
Thank you to Dundurn Press and Netgalley for letting me review this fantastic story.
I loved this book. We get to hear from so many of the people Luisa encounters in her life, and what they think of her, but we never hear from Luisa herself. Such a neat way to write about a character. This was a quick read because I did not want to put it down. Absolutely a unique and highly enjoyable read.
Look for it May 21 2024
Thank you to Dundurn Press and Netgalley for letting me review this fantastic story.
May 21, 2024
What They Said About Luisa immediately peaked my interest when I heard about it. A true story of an emancipated slave claiming her livelihood and (ultimately) thriving? Yes, please!
Set in Seville and Mexico during the Spanish Inquisition, this story told of the life of Luisa Abrego. We see the beginnings of her story as a slave deeply taken advantage of by her master, her resulting emancipation and a series of tragedies that shape her life and those around her. She bravely forges a life for herself despite obstacles at every turn, including some that are frustratingly self-inflicted.
The twist? We literally read this book as a series of POV’s of the people surrounding Luisa; 𝘸𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘓𝘶𝘪𝘴𝘢. In some ways, I did feel like this was a clever way to give a different perspective than the standard hist fic. Mostly, though, I felt as though the “gossipy” style made it hard to connect with the characters, especially Luisa. It also wasn’t lost on me that she was silenced both by her circumstances and also by the way the book was written.
There were a number of things that were almost there in this novel. I give the author a lot of credit for a unique idea and for her incredibly descriptive writing. On the whole, though? I liked this novel, but couldn’t find a way to love it.
I received this book through @netgalley . All opinions are my own.
Set in Seville and Mexico during the Spanish Inquisition, this story told of the life of Luisa Abrego. We see the beginnings of her story as a slave deeply taken advantage of by her master, her resulting emancipation and a series of tragedies that shape her life and those around her. She bravely forges a life for herself despite obstacles at every turn, including some that are frustratingly self-inflicted.
The twist? We literally read this book as a series of POV’s of the people surrounding Luisa; 𝘸𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘓𝘶𝘪𝘴𝘢. In some ways, I did feel like this was a clever way to give a different perspective than the standard hist fic. Mostly, though, I felt as though the “gossipy” style made it hard to connect with the characters, especially Luisa. It also wasn’t lost on me that she was silenced both by her circumstances and also by the way the book was written.
There were a number of things that were almost there in this novel. I give the author a lot of credit for a unique idea and for her incredibly descriptive writing. On the whole, though? I liked this novel, but couldn’t find a way to love it.
I received this book through @netgalley . All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn press for the e-arc.
What They Said About Luisa is an illuminating novel of historical fiction set in Seville, Spain during the 16th century and the Spanish Inquisition. This refreshing story begins with Luisa Albrego a slave who is emancipated and inherits some money after the death of her master. Even with a bit of money, Luisa, who is pregnant, has limited options and takes local service work to survive. Her work allows her to take care of her infant son within the home of an elderly couple she provides care for. She meets and decides to marry a white man who convinces her to sail with him to Mexico where they will mine for silver on a plot of land they arrange to buy. Luisa knows it is too risky to bring her young son on the sea crossing so she puts him into the care of a local church until the time she can send for him.
From Spain, across the sea to Mexico, and into her new life and beyond we learn of the trials she faces. We learn of an encounter with indigenous people that changes her life and sets her on an emotional odyssey. The author paints a vivid landscape of life in Zacatecas Mexico during the 1500's and the impact of prejudice, religion, and race on those who attempt to make a new life there.
The most gratifying aspect of this novel is that the reader learns of Luisa's story not in her voice, but from those she interacts with during her life journey. Their unique perspectives are voiced to the reader within the parameters of each of their own personalities, ambitions, biases, and beliefs. Brilliantly told from multiple perspectives.
This story left me searching for more information. I found I wanted more information about the Spanish Inquisition, slavery in Spain, silver mining in Mexico, and general life during the 1500's.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and fresh voices. I'm absolutely gobsmacked.
What They Said About Luisa is an illuminating novel of historical fiction set in Seville, Spain during the 16th century and the Spanish Inquisition. This refreshing story begins with Luisa Albrego a slave who is emancipated and inherits some money after the death of her master. Even with a bit of money, Luisa, who is pregnant, has limited options and takes local service work to survive. Her work allows her to take care of her infant son within the home of an elderly couple she provides care for. She meets and decides to marry a white man who convinces her to sail with him to Mexico where they will mine for silver on a plot of land they arrange to buy. Luisa knows it is too risky to bring her young son on the sea crossing so she puts him into the care of a local church until the time she can send for him.
From Spain, across the sea to Mexico, and into her new life and beyond we learn of the trials she faces. We learn of an encounter with indigenous people that changes her life and sets her on an emotional odyssey. The author paints a vivid landscape of life in Zacatecas Mexico during the 1500's and the impact of prejudice, religion, and race on those who attempt to make a new life there.
The most gratifying aspect of this novel is that the reader learns of Luisa's story not in her voice, but from those she interacts with during her life journey. Their unique perspectives are voiced to the reader within the parameters of each of their own personalities, ambitions, biases, and beliefs. Brilliantly told from multiple perspectives.
This story left me searching for more information. I found I wanted more information about the Spanish Inquisition, slavery in Spain, silver mining in Mexico, and general life during the 1500's.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and fresh voices. I'm absolutely gobsmacked.
December 8, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for an early copy. This is definitely a slow-burn and character driven book. The chapters are divided by a character who speaks of their time with Luisa over the course of 20 years or so. The history around the 1500’s in Spain and the making of the Spanish Inquisition.
I enjoyed how the author provided different perspectives from each character from slave/master to priest and Nun with their flaws. Also, how the “Church” used their higher power to shame and greedily take and take from the people. However, their position can easily fall without having what the most poor have, the love of a family.
Possible spoiler below:
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When I finished the last chapter, I pondered on the fact that there was not a chapter or an epilogue from Luisa herself. I am sure the author intended it to be this way for us, the reader to be able to form a perspective from our point of view. Overall, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed how the author provided different perspectives from each character from slave/master to priest and Nun with their flaws. Also, how the “Church” used their higher power to shame and greedily take and take from the people. However, their position can easily fall without having what the most poor have, the love of a family.
Possible spoiler below:
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When I finished the last chapter, I pondered on the fact that there was not a chapter or an epilogue from Luisa herself. I am sure the author intended it to be this way for us, the reader to be able to form a perspective from our point of view. Overall, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 1, 2023
Although this book was different than what I was expecting, I enjoyed the format and the way the story was written was well done. I expected a story in the first person as many historical fiction novels are written, instead this book is told through the view point of several other characters about the main character Luisa. It follows her journey from a mulatto slave who is freed by her master upon his death to the silver mines in Mexico and then her return to Spain. There are a few surprises toward the end of the story that I did not expect and kept me reading to find out how the story ends up. It is a entertaining rags to riches story based on a true historical figure. As an avid reader of historical fiction the silver mines of Mexico and the expansion of the Inquisition across the ocean is a subject I have not read about before and this book was very enlightening on the subject. Thank you to the author and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.
December 7, 2023
"What They Said About Luisa" serves as a captivating historical novel penned by Erika Rummel, which chronicles the extraordinary journey of Luisa Abrego, a remarkable woman who frees herself from the shackles of slavery in Seville after her master's demise.
Luisa Abrego, an actual historical figure from colonial Spain, found herself enslaved in Seville, where her master impregnated her before his passing.
Determined to forge a new path, Luisa embarks on an arduous voyage across treacherous seas and uncharted landscapes, braving countless trials and tribulations. Their ultimate destination is Mexico, where they aspire to acquire land for silver mining. However, their plans are beset by further challenges when their caravan falls prey to attack by Indigenous warriors. Throughout these tumultuous circumstances, Luisa's illegitimate child is nurtured and cared for by the benevolent nuns of St. Ursula.
Within the captivating pages of this novel, themes of freedom, identity, and the unique struggles faced by women in this colonial era unfold with profound depth.
Erika Rummel, the visionary author and historian, crafts a vivid and poignant narrative by ingeniously avoiding the traditional first- or third-person perspective, instead choosing to manifest the voices of the eyewitnesses who crossed paths with Luisa. This ingenious writing technique allows each of the eleven chapters to present Luisa's story from a different external vantage point, presenting a rich tapestry of perspectives. While some of these narrators harbor empathy for Luisa, others are unwaveringly hostile, notably her former master's wife.
Rummel's decision to keep Luisa's thoughts veiled proves thought-provoking, reminding readers that her true essence remains obscured. The intricate web of conflicting testimonies invites readers to form their interpretations of Luisa's experiences and character. By casting doubt on the reliability of these narratives, Rummel subtly underscores the racial biases and pervasive influence of the Christian church within society.
These discernable influences render the accounts of Luisa's witnesses somewhat dubious, requiring readers to exercise discernment. Nevertheless, amid the fluctuating perspectives, Luisa's genuine character and benevolence shine through. Rummel artfully breathes life into each character, delving deep into their innermost thoughts, emotions, and motivations. Through meticulous research, the author seamlessly integrates Luisa's existence within the historical fabric of the era, fashioning an authentic and immersive portrayal of the time and place. This enchanting and engaging tale ensures that readers become wholly invested in Luisa's arduous journey and the formidable challenges she must overcome.
Luisa's significance resides in her captivating tale, which illuminates the trials of women, particularly those of color, during the colonial era. Her narrative also showcases the intricate nature of identity and liberation within a time when slavery still reigned.
Erika Rummel's magnificent novel presents a fictionalized rendition of Luisa's life, drawing inspiration from actual trial records of the remarkable woman from the sixteenth century. This mesmerizing account unveils the enigmatic protagonist, simultaneously alluring and silent, modest yet determined, evoking profound emotions within anyone who encounters her extraordinary destiny. It is through this distinctive storytelling approach that the author cultivates genuine empathy towards the central character, who faces numerous prejudices. Rummel masterfully weaves together each narrative, skillfully avoiding repetition, and building towards a subtle crescendo, ultimately culminating in the profoundly moving final two chapters.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly commend Rummel for her exceptional work in this literary masterpiece. Undeniably, it is a book that deserves to be cherished and experienced.
Luisa Abrego, an actual historical figure from colonial Spain, found herself enslaved in Seville, where her master impregnated her before his passing.
Determined to forge a new path, Luisa embarks on an arduous voyage across treacherous seas and uncharted landscapes, braving countless trials and tribulations. Their ultimate destination is Mexico, where they aspire to acquire land for silver mining. However, their plans are beset by further challenges when their caravan falls prey to attack by Indigenous warriors. Throughout these tumultuous circumstances, Luisa's illegitimate child is nurtured and cared for by the benevolent nuns of St. Ursula.
Within the captivating pages of this novel, themes of freedom, identity, and the unique struggles faced by women in this colonial era unfold with profound depth.
Erika Rummel, the visionary author and historian, crafts a vivid and poignant narrative by ingeniously avoiding the traditional first- or third-person perspective, instead choosing to manifest the voices of the eyewitnesses who crossed paths with Luisa. This ingenious writing technique allows each of the eleven chapters to present Luisa's story from a different external vantage point, presenting a rich tapestry of perspectives. While some of these narrators harbor empathy for Luisa, others are unwaveringly hostile, notably her former master's wife.
Rummel's decision to keep Luisa's thoughts veiled proves thought-provoking, reminding readers that her true essence remains obscured. The intricate web of conflicting testimonies invites readers to form their interpretations of Luisa's experiences and character. By casting doubt on the reliability of these narratives, Rummel subtly underscores the racial biases and pervasive influence of the Christian church within society.
These discernable influences render the accounts of Luisa's witnesses somewhat dubious, requiring readers to exercise discernment. Nevertheless, amid the fluctuating perspectives, Luisa's genuine character and benevolence shine through. Rummel artfully breathes life into each character, delving deep into their innermost thoughts, emotions, and motivations. Through meticulous research, the author seamlessly integrates Luisa's existence within the historical fabric of the era, fashioning an authentic and immersive portrayal of the time and place. This enchanting and engaging tale ensures that readers become wholly invested in Luisa's arduous journey and the formidable challenges she must overcome.
Luisa's significance resides in her captivating tale, which illuminates the trials of women, particularly those of color, during the colonial era. Her narrative also showcases the intricate nature of identity and liberation within a time when slavery still reigned.
Erika Rummel's magnificent novel presents a fictionalized rendition of Luisa's life, drawing inspiration from actual trial records of the remarkable woman from the sixteenth century. This mesmerizing account unveils the enigmatic protagonist, simultaneously alluring and silent, modest yet determined, evoking profound emotions within anyone who encounters her extraordinary destiny. It is through this distinctive storytelling approach that the author cultivates genuine empathy towards the central character, who faces numerous prejudices. Rummel masterfully weaves together each narrative, skillfully avoiding repetition, and building towards a subtle crescendo, ultimately culminating in the profoundly moving final two chapters.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly commend Rummel for her exceptional work in this literary masterpiece. Undeniably, it is a book that deserves to be cherished and experienced.
May 31, 2024
This is the story of Luisa Abrego, a quiet woman who actually lived in the 1500s and was tried by the Inquisition. The narrative is unusual but effective. The story takes place in Spain, Mexico, and the perilous Atlantic voyage to and from Mexico. The author, Erika Rummel, has researched documents relating to Luisa's trial and life and conditions in Spain and Mexico in the 1500s, a time rarely addressed in historical fiction. Luisa was of mixed black/white race (mulatto), resulting in her being a slave. Racism, class standing, the low status of women, intolerance, and religion all play a part in the story.
It is told through the various perspectives of assorted people who encountered Luisa over the years, but we never learn of Luisa's view. Among the voices of those who formed opinions of the quiet and elusive Luisa are the bitter thoughts of her slave master's widow, a kindly priest, an abbess, a miner, a ship's captain, a representative of the Inquisition and others she meets during her life journey. Although her voice remains absent in the storytelling, we build up our own impressions and empathy for her during a time of great prejudice, class distinctions, and religious intolerance.
During this time, the Catholic Church reigned supreme with its spies informing on those suspected of heresy. The past sales of indulgences, where people paid sums of money for their sins to be forgiven, fees to have a child gently cared for in one of their orphanages, and the confiscation of wealth and land by Inquisition victims greatly enriched the power and wealth of the Church. The author mentions a strange rule that an engagement with a witness was classified as a legitimate marriage.
Luisa was impregnated by her slave master, who gave her her freedom and a sum of money in his will. She found employment helping an elderly couple in their modest home while caring for her baby. She then dated a local apothecary's helper who asked Luisa to marry him. He jilted her and married someone else. Next, a sailor, Jorge, proposed marriage. He was going to Mexico to mine silver and asked her to accompany him if she could afford her own passage with some leftover funds. Her child was too young to make the dangerous journey, so she paid to leave him in the gentle care of nuns.
Once the ship docked in Mexico, they travelled to their destination as a married couple. On the journey, the group was attacked by indigenous warriors. Luisa was grabbed by one of the natives and displayed her determination to live freely by bravely stabbing her captor to death. She was rewarded by the warrior's horse for her efforts and heroism. The fact that she killed another human weighed heavily on her conscience, along with the law she committed bigamy when accepting a marriage proposal, even when jilted.
Her husband Jorge was believed killed in a mine cave-in but was severely wounded and near death. Luisa's son was faring poorly in the orphanage. He had been put in the care of an insane nun and later sold to a cruel landowner. Luisa returns to Spain, now believing she is a widow, and turns herself into the Inquisition for the sin of bigamy, with the murder of the native weighing heavily on her mind. Her prime objective is to retrieve her son, who is now back in the orphanage. She has established a small business.
The story ends with a lot of hope for the future. Thanks to Netgalley and Dundurn Press for this compelling story, informative and well-researched, in return for an honest review. The publication date is set for June 18. 4.5 Stars!
It is told through the various perspectives of assorted people who encountered Luisa over the years, but we never learn of Luisa's view. Among the voices of those who formed opinions of the quiet and elusive Luisa are the bitter thoughts of her slave master's widow, a kindly priest, an abbess, a miner, a ship's captain, a representative of the Inquisition and others she meets during her life journey. Although her voice remains absent in the storytelling, we build up our own impressions and empathy for her during a time of great prejudice, class distinctions, and religious intolerance.
During this time, the Catholic Church reigned supreme with its spies informing on those suspected of heresy. The past sales of indulgences, where people paid sums of money for their sins to be forgiven, fees to have a child gently cared for in one of their orphanages, and the confiscation of wealth and land by Inquisition victims greatly enriched the power and wealth of the Church. The author mentions a strange rule that an engagement with a witness was classified as a legitimate marriage.
Luisa was impregnated by her slave master, who gave her her freedom and a sum of money in his will. She found employment helping an elderly couple in their modest home while caring for her baby. She then dated a local apothecary's helper who asked Luisa to marry him. He jilted her and married someone else. Next, a sailor, Jorge, proposed marriage. He was going to Mexico to mine silver and asked her to accompany him if she could afford her own passage with some leftover funds. Her child was too young to make the dangerous journey, so she paid to leave him in the gentle care of nuns.
Once the ship docked in Mexico, they travelled to their destination as a married couple. On the journey, the group was attacked by indigenous warriors. Luisa was grabbed by one of the natives and displayed her determination to live freely by bravely stabbing her captor to death. She was rewarded by the warrior's horse for her efforts and heroism. The fact that she killed another human weighed heavily on her conscience, along with the law she committed bigamy when accepting a marriage proposal, even when jilted.
Her husband Jorge was believed killed in a mine cave-in but was severely wounded and near death. Luisa's son was faring poorly in the orphanage. He had been put in the care of an insane nun and later sold to a cruel landowner. Luisa returns to Spain, now believing she is a widow, and turns herself into the Inquisition for the sin of bigamy, with the murder of the native weighing heavily on her mind. Her prime objective is to retrieve her son, who is now back in the orphanage. She has established a small business.
The story ends with a lot of hope for the future. Thanks to Netgalley and Dundurn Press for this compelling story, informative and well-researched, in return for an honest review. The publication date is set for June 18. 4.5 Stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2024
In her latest book based on a true 16th century personage, Erika Rummel tells the story of Luisa, a Mulatto woman, who was brought to Spain from Morocco as a young child. After he is injured in a riding accident and before he succumbs to his injuries, her master and the father of her unborn son frees her and leaves her an inheritance. After leaving his household, she marries a sailor, who wants to marry her and start a life in Mexico.
I love how the author tells Luisa's story, not through her view point, but through the eyes of various characters, who have come into her life. We actually hear little from Luisa herself. First, there is the widow of her master, naturally a person, who would have nothing good to say about her. Next, the parish priest, who advises her on her future. We meet the sea captain, under whom her future husband works, and with whom he decides to settle in the New World, as a miner in a silver mine. On their way to their new home, they are attacked by Natives. Luisa kills a warrior in self defense and is filled with guilt, which leads to a trial held by the Inquisition years later. Narratives from others follow.
As each person tells their story, we see the character of Luisa emerge. At first most have doubts about her suitability, her lineage, her history as a slave, then as an unwed mother. But as they get to know her true character, what emerges is a strong person, one, who works hard to achieve the best life available to her for the times, a person, who radiates inner beauty of the soul, one with whom most fall in love.
Life in 16th century Spain was very hard for Luisa. She was a slave as well as a mulatto, looked down on and treated badly by many, especially the well to do, entitled women in Spain, as well as in Mexico. The Inquisition dictated everyone's life, creating dangerous times for all. Then, it followed her to Mexico. Punishments for the guilty were horrendous. In Mexico, we see how the Indigenous people were treated and in Spain how poorly slaves, orphans and indentured servants faired.
This is the fourth novel by Erika Rummel, that I have read, and is one of the best. I look forward to her next.
To win a copy for yourself, follow the tour at:
https://theteddyrosebookreviewsplusmo...
I love how the author tells Luisa's story, not through her view point, but through the eyes of various characters, who have come into her life. We actually hear little from Luisa herself. First, there is the widow of her master, naturally a person, who would have nothing good to say about her. Next, the parish priest, who advises her on her future. We meet the sea captain, under whom her future husband works, and with whom he decides to settle in the New World, as a miner in a silver mine. On their way to their new home, they are attacked by Natives. Luisa kills a warrior in self defense and is filled with guilt, which leads to a trial held by the Inquisition years later. Narratives from others follow.
As each person tells their story, we see the character of Luisa emerge. At first most have doubts about her suitability, her lineage, her history as a slave, then as an unwed mother. But as they get to know her true character, what emerges is a strong person, one, who works hard to achieve the best life available to her for the times, a person, who radiates inner beauty of the soul, one with whom most fall in love.
Life in 16th century Spain was very hard for Luisa. She was a slave as well as a mulatto, looked down on and treated badly by many, especially the well to do, entitled women in Spain, as well as in Mexico. The Inquisition dictated everyone's life, creating dangerous times for all. Then, it followed her to Mexico. Punishments for the guilty were horrendous. In Mexico, we see how the Indigenous people were treated and in Spain how poorly slaves, orphans and indentured servants faired.
This is the fourth novel by Erika Rummel, that I have read, and is one of the best. I look forward to her next.
To win a copy for yourself, follow the tour at:
https://theteddyrosebookreviewsplusmo...
December 5, 2023
What they said about Luisa is a historical novel that is intriguing both for its subject and its narrative approach.
An elusive heroine
As far as the subject is concerned, the novel is based on the life of a woman who actually lived in the 16th century, but about whom very little is known. Born a slave in Seville, Luisa Abrega is made pregnant by her master. When the latter dies and grants her freedom in his will - along with a small sum of money, Luisa has to create a new life for herself. But what can a single mother and former slave expect in a society governed by Catholicism and a strict social and racial hierarchy?
When a lonely old sailor offers to marry her in exchange for the promise of a new life in Mexico, she accepts. This was actually the first known marriage between a white man and a mulatto woman in 16th-century Spain. The year is 1565 and the couple embarks on a perilous voyage across the Atlantic. Successes and failures are in store. But above all, Luisa finds herself on trial before the Spanish Inquisition in Mexico... an ordeal from which she will emerge transformed.
A range of points of view
Rather than relying on a classic first- or third-person novel that takes her heroine's point of view, the author - and historian - Erika Rummel makes the bold choice never to communicate her heroine's thoughts to the reader. Each of the eleven chapters tells Luisa's story roughly chronologically, but above all from the point of view of an outside witness. While some of these narrators feel empathy for Luisa, several of them are resolutely hostile to her, such as the wife of her former master.
The result is an elusive heroine, at once sensual and mute, humble and determined, whose extraordinary destiny leaves no one indifferent. Far from being frustrating, this narrative approach allows the reader to feel real empathy with the main character who is prey to a multitude of prejudices. The author manages to make each account complementary, avoiding repetition, with a subtle crescendo that culminates in the last two chapters, which are particularly moving. Definitely worth the read!
Thank you Netgalley and Dundurn Press for the advance reader copy.
An elusive heroine
As far as the subject is concerned, the novel is based on the life of a woman who actually lived in the 16th century, but about whom very little is known. Born a slave in Seville, Luisa Abrega is made pregnant by her master. When the latter dies and grants her freedom in his will - along with a small sum of money, Luisa has to create a new life for herself. But what can a single mother and former slave expect in a society governed by Catholicism and a strict social and racial hierarchy?
When a lonely old sailor offers to marry her in exchange for the promise of a new life in Mexico, she accepts. This was actually the first known marriage between a white man and a mulatto woman in 16th-century Spain. The year is 1565 and the couple embarks on a perilous voyage across the Atlantic. Successes and failures are in store. But above all, Luisa finds herself on trial before the Spanish Inquisition in Mexico... an ordeal from which she will emerge transformed.
A range of points of view
Rather than relying on a classic first- or third-person novel that takes her heroine's point of view, the author - and historian - Erika Rummel makes the bold choice never to communicate her heroine's thoughts to the reader. Each of the eleven chapters tells Luisa's story roughly chronologically, but above all from the point of view of an outside witness. While some of these narrators feel empathy for Luisa, several of them are resolutely hostile to her, such as the wife of her former master.
The result is an elusive heroine, at once sensual and mute, humble and determined, whose extraordinary destiny leaves no one indifferent. Far from being frustrating, this narrative approach allows the reader to feel real empathy with the main character who is prey to a multitude of prejudices. The author manages to make each account complementary, avoiding repetition, with a subtle crescendo that culminates in the last two chapters, which are particularly moving. Definitely worth the read!
Thank you Netgalley and Dundurn Press for the advance reader copy.
June 4, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Dundurn Press for the eARC!
Looovee the authors note before the start of the novel explaining why she chose to write the story and in this way! Author is a retired history professor specialist in this time period, which I always love to see in historical fiction because their passion clearly comes through the pages.
Story is told through the people who knew Luisa (or had contact with her rather). Not much is known about this real life woman, especially after her trial in colonial Mexico, so this was a unique way to bring her back to life during the aftermath. The book was really engaging and I enjoyed reading the different perspectives! Although we never hear from Luisa and I felt like we didn’t get enough time to connect to her or any other characters. The POVs paint different pictures of Luisa in a “gossip” style of storytelling so you as the reader can infer the truth vs bias held about Luisa.
The chapters are long and every one is from a different character’s POV, some of them were better than others. I hated Pedro’s chapter the most because he’s such a dick and a lot of his chapter was repeating everything that happened in the previous chapter.
I liked some characters more than others, for example I really enjoyed the chapter from Alonso’s POV (he worked for the Inquisition tribunal) he was really complex and had some thought provoking sentiments. I also liked Juan Diaz because his chapters painted a very well thought out setting/background info for Colonial Mexico (also he just seems cool)!
I felt like I got to know this time period and how people lived their lives in general. However I wish we heard from Luisa at least once. From the title and synopsis I understand not hearing from her and it’s a unique way to write a historical novel but it felt like Luisa was silenced in history and then once again silenced through the novel. Overall I enjoyed the book and will be interested in reading more from the author but I didn’t love it.
TW/CW: miscarriage (brief mention), sexual assault (references/implied but never shown or discussed in detail), slavery, colonization, violence, blood, racism, xenophobia, antisemitism, torture, religious bigotry, pedophilia, sexual abuse, misogyny, ableism
Looovee the authors note before the start of the novel explaining why she chose to write the story and in this way! Author is a retired history professor specialist in this time period, which I always love to see in historical fiction because their passion clearly comes through the pages.
Story is told through the people who knew Luisa (or had contact with her rather). Not much is known about this real life woman, especially after her trial in colonial Mexico, so this was a unique way to bring her back to life during the aftermath. The book was really engaging and I enjoyed reading the different perspectives! Although we never hear from Luisa and I felt like we didn’t get enough time to connect to her or any other characters. The POVs paint different pictures of Luisa in a “gossip” style of storytelling so you as the reader can infer the truth vs bias held about Luisa.
The chapters are long and every one is from a different character’s POV, some of them were better than others. I hated Pedro’s chapter the most because he’s such a dick and a lot of his chapter was repeating everything that happened in the previous chapter.
I liked some characters more than others, for example I really enjoyed the chapter from Alonso’s POV (he worked for the Inquisition tribunal) he was really complex and had some thought provoking sentiments. I also liked Juan Diaz because his chapters painted a very well thought out setting/background info for Colonial Mexico (also he just seems cool)!
I felt like I got to know this time period and how people lived their lives in general. However I wish we heard from Luisa at least once. From the title and synopsis I understand not hearing from her and it’s a unique way to write a historical novel but it felt like Luisa was silenced in history and then once again silenced through the novel. Overall I enjoyed the book and will be interested in reading more from the author but I didn’t love it.
TW/CW: miscarriage (brief mention), sexual assault (references/implied but never shown or discussed in detail), slavery, colonization, violence, blood, racism, xenophobia, antisemitism, torture, religious bigotry, pedophilia, sexual abuse, misogyny, ableism
September 9, 2024
A fascinating historical fiction novel about a former slave who travels to the Americas in search of a new life. 'What They Said About Luisa,' is one of the most unique books that I have ever read in my lifetime.
Told from the perspective of a different character each chapter, the story follows the life of a young African woman, who begins the story as a slave in Seville, Spain.
After her master dies unexpectedly, Luisa is freed and given a hefty inheritance—leaving the master's wife to heavily resent her. The master's wife believes that Luisa was her husband's mistress, and, after his death, she only wishes to cause trouble in the young woman's life.
After a courtship with the apothecary's assistant, Jordan, Luisa leaves her master's house and strikes out on her own. Eventually she begins caring for an elderly couple, but she soon meets a young sailor who wishes to marry her.
Luisa and Jorge do not have a whirlwind romance, as they are both too practical for that, but they travel together on a ship to Mexico where they eventually marry. However, Luisa begins to worry that she has committed the sin of bigamy.
At one point, Jordan promised that he would marry Luisa and, as the Catholic church considered a promise of marriage to be lawful at that point, there was a question of whether Luisa had already been married when she left Spain.
Luisa is brought before the Spanish Inquisition and tried for her crimes. I won't spoil the verdict, but suffice it to say I was on the edge of my seat while reading.
This is an incredible historical novel and one that I will be thinking about for a long time to come. I have read two of Erika Rummel's other books, and though I enjoyed those immensely, I think this one may be my favorite yet!
Told from the perspective of a different character each chapter, the story follows the life of a young African woman, who begins the story as a slave in Seville, Spain.
After her master dies unexpectedly, Luisa is freed and given a hefty inheritance—leaving the master's wife to heavily resent her. The master's wife believes that Luisa was her husband's mistress, and, after his death, she only wishes to cause trouble in the young woman's life.
After a courtship with the apothecary's assistant, Jordan, Luisa leaves her master's house and strikes out on her own. Eventually she begins caring for an elderly couple, but she soon meets a young sailor who wishes to marry her.
Luisa and Jorge do not have a whirlwind romance, as they are both too practical for that, but they travel together on a ship to Mexico where they eventually marry. However, Luisa begins to worry that she has committed the sin of bigamy.
At one point, Jordan promised that he would marry Luisa and, as the Catholic church considered a promise of marriage to be lawful at that point, there was a question of whether Luisa had already been married when she left Spain.
Luisa is brought before the Spanish Inquisition and tried for her crimes. I won't spoil the verdict, but suffice it to say I was on the edge of my seat while reading.
This is an incredible historical novel and one that I will be thinking about for a long time to come. I have read two of Erika Rummel's other books, and though I enjoyed those immensely, I think this one may be my favorite yet!
September 15, 2024
“Her image sustained me in the darkness, and I realized that I had been wrong all these years when I thought love was a meaningless word, no more than romantic nonsense. I didn't believe that there was true love between men and women. There was only self-interest or lust or, at best, companionship. But the memory of Luisa's sweet voice settled on me like balm, and I realized that love did exist and had bound me to her all along.”
A truly unique reading experience! Erika Rummel's new historical fiction novel, 'What They Said About Luisa,' is probably going to be your most memorable reading experience of the year. It certainly was for myself!
Told from a different perspective in every chapter, the novel focuses on the life of a former slave named Luisa, who travels thousands of miles to find a new life for herself but ends up finding more trouble than she could have ever imagined.
During the time of the Spanish Inquisition, many people were tried for crimes that they did not commit. And sometimes, those people even turned themselves in. Such was the case with Luisa, a former slave who left Spain to travel to Mexico with her new husband, unaware that she was unknowingly committing bigamy.
Having promised her hand in marriage to another man, Luisa did not realize that she was technically married in the eyes of the Catholic church. When she does realize, she confesses to her priest only to be turned over to the Inquisition to be tried for her crime.
This is a stellar novel and I highly recommend it for lovers of historical fiction.
All of Erika Rummel's books that I have read so far have been excellent and I cannot wait to see what she comes out with next! Five stars for this great read!
A truly unique reading experience! Erika Rummel's new historical fiction novel, 'What They Said About Luisa,' is probably going to be your most memorable reading experience of the year. It certainly was for myself!
Told from a different perspective in every chapter, the novel focuses on the life of a former slave named Luisa, who travels thousands of miles to find a new life for herself but ends up finding more trouble than she could have ever imagined.
During the time of the Spanish Inquisition, many people were tried for crimes that they did not commit. And sometimes, those people even turned themselves in. Such was the case with Luisa, a former slave who left Spain to travel to Mexico with her new husband, unaware that she was unknowingly committing bigamy.
Having promised her hand in marriage to another man, Luisa did not realize that she was technically married in the eyes of the Catholic church. When she does realize, she confesses to her priest only to be turned over to the Inquisition to be tried for her crime.
This is a stellar novel and I highly recommend it for lovers of historical fiction.
All of Erika Rummel's books that I have read so far have been excellent and I cannot wait to see what she comes out with next! Five stars for this great read!
September 18, 2024
“From time to time I looked up at the wooden crosses of the poor and the mausoleums of the rich, the final resting place of the dead and a fitting place to contemplate for a priest who must have no stake in this world. A ghost rose up, or so it appeared to me for a moment – a black figure, a silhouette backlit by the afternoon sun – but it was no ghost. It was Luisa coming through the wrought-iron gate of the graveyard.”
A thrilling historical fiction novel that asks questions about what goes on inside a woman's heart.
'What They Said About Luisa,' is a novel from the inimitable pen of Ericka Rummel. Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity to read two of Rummel's other works and I was truly impressed by both of them. But this book is wholly different from either of those in terms of genre and I think Rummel stepped her game up even more!
'What They Said About Luisa,' is told from many different perspectives, each chapter taking on a different voice as it explores the life of one Luisa Abrego, a slave turned international explorer who made quite a unique mark on history.
Abrego started out as a slave in the home of Don Diego Rodriguez and, after his death, was awarded a large inheritance and her freedom. The book follows Luisa through the eyes of the people she affected as she leaves her former master's house and travels to the New World – America with a man whom she had started a relationship with. But once Luisa arrives in America, she discovers that Catholicism has spread there as well, and the Spanish Inquisition may be looking for her.
I can't recommend this book highly enough for historical fiction lovers! This is one you are definitely going to want to pick up!
A thrilling historical fiction novel that asks questions about what goes on inside a woman's heart.
'What They Said About Luisa,' is a novel from the inimitable pen of Ericka Rummel. Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity to read two of Rummel's other works and I was truly impressed by both of them. But this book is wholly different from either of those in terms of genre and I think Rummel stepped her game up even more!
'What They Said About Luisa,' is told from many different perspectives, each chapter taking on a different voice as it explores the life of one Luisa Abrego, a slave turned international explorer who made quite a unique mark on history.
Abrego started out as a slave in the home of Don Diego Rodriguez and, after his death, was awarded a large inheritance and her freedom. The book follows Luisa through the eyes of the people she affected as she leaves her former master's house and travels to the New World – America with a man whom she had started a relationship with. But once Luisa arrives in America, she discovers that Catholicism has spread there as well, and the Spanish Inquisition may be looking for her.
I can't recommend this book highly enough for historical fiction lovers! This is one you are definitely going to want to pick up!
August 11, 2024
Erika Rummel tells Luisa Abrego’s story with originality and deep understanding. It is inspired by the real-life events of a freed slave in the 16th century Spain who demonstrates the courage to seize agency when the odds are heavily stacked against her.
Erika Rummel is a distinguished historical researcher and a successful writer of fiction inspired by real life events, hence her consummate skill to summon up people, places, conversations, and incidents from the past. She writes with such convincing clarity that we are transported into an older and less comfortable world than the one that surrounds us today.
I am familiar with the places where this story unfolds -- Spain and Mexico -- and so “What They Said About Luisa” has a particularly strong appeal for me. The story is, however, profoundly human and personal. To enjoy it, requires neither geographical nor historical knowledge.
The story is told entirely through the memorable experiences of several people who came into direct contact with Luisa at different points in her life – a master enthralled by her beauty, his jealous wife, a local priest, Luisa’s suitors, the man she gave her love to, the captain of a sailing ship plying the Atlantic between Seville and the Mexican coast, and many others.
What they say about her and how they remember her, turns Luisa into a vivid character that we come to know, have empathy for, admire, and love. Erika Rummel engages our concern as we hear how Luisa, buffeted by events, does her utmost to avoid being overwhelmed by life’s vicissitudes and to hang onto her dignity, hope, self-respect, and integrity in the face of adversity.
Erika Rummel is a master at presenting human truths while the many and varied voices talk to us about what happened to Luisa.
Erika Rummel is a distinguished historical researcher and a successful writer of fiction inspired by real life events, hence her consummate skill to summon up people, places, conversations, and incidents from the past. She writes with such convincing clarity that we are transported into an older and less comfortable world than the one that surrounds us today.
I am familiar with the places where this story unfolds -- Spain and Mexico -- and so “What They Said About Luisa” has a particularly strong appeal for me. The story is, however, profoundly human and personal. To enjoy it, requires neither geographical nor historical knowledge.
The story is told entirely through the memorable experiences of several people who came into direct contact with Luisa at different points in her life – a master enthralled by her beauty, his jealous wife, a local priest, Luisa’s suitors, the man she gave her love to, the captain of a sailing ship plying the Atlantic between Seville and the Mexican coast, and many others.
What they say about her and how they remember her, turns Luisa into a vivid character that we come to know, have empathy for, admire, and love. Erika Rummel engages our concern as we hear how Luisa, buffeted by events, does her utmost to avoid being overwhelmed by life’s vicissitudes and to hang onto her dignity, hope, self-respect, and integrity in the face of adversity.
Erika Rummel is a master at presenting human truths while the many and varied voices talk to us about what happened to Luisa.
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September 10, 2024“They say when you are close to death, the whole of your life passes before your eyes. It's an act of God giving you a last chance to repent of your sins.”
A marvelous new historical fiction novel from the author of two of the best books I have read in recent years, 'Loneliness of the Time Traveler,' and 'Evita and Me.' 'What They Said About Luisa,' is a masterfully told tale of a young woman who began life as a slave and grows up to make a unique mark on history.
Luisa Abrego was an African woman who, as a young woman, was enslaved in Seville, Spain. Throughout the story, different characters give their perspective on Luisa's journey as she goes from being enslaved to a free woman after the death of her master.
Luisa is freed and given a large inheritance by her master's will, which his wife heavily disputes. But thankfully, the master's wife has no legal way to block Luisa's inheritance, and the girl goes free at the age of 15.
Luisa begins taking care of an elderly couple until she is proposed to by a young sailor. The two travel to Mexico and America, but Luisa is soon put on trial for bigamy for the suspicion that she may have been married to another young man when she married her current husband.
As I said, this story is absolutely marvelous! I thought the method of giving Luisa's story from different perspectives of people that she had interacted with was absolutely genius! I have never read such a unique take on a historical fiction novel before, but I expected nothing less from Erika Rummel, who I know is a great storyteller.
I wish I could give this more than five stars! It was a stellar read!
A marvelous new historical fiction novel from the author of two of the best books I have read in recent years, 'Loneliness of the Time Traveler,' and 'Evita and Me.' 'What They Said About Luisa,' is a masterfully told tale of a young woman who began life as a slave and grows up to make a unique mark on history.
Luisa Abrego was an African woman who, as a young woman, was enslaved in Seville, Spain. Throughout the story, different characters give their perspective on Luisa's journey as she goes from being enslaved to a free woman after the death of her master.
Luisa is freed and given a large inheritance by her master's will, which his wife heavily disputes. But thankfully, the master's wife has no legal way to block Luisa's inheritance, and the girl goes free at the age of 15.
Luisa begins taking care of an elderly couple until she is proposed to by a young sailor. The two travel to Mexico and America, but Luisa is soon put on trial for bigamy for the suspicion that she may have been married to another young man when she married her current husband.
As I said, this story is absolutely marvelous! I thought the method of giving Luisa's story from different perspectives of people that she had interacted with was absolutely genius! I have never read such a unique take on a historical fiction novel before, but I expected nothing less from Erika Rummel, who I know is a great storyteller.
I wish I could give this more than five stars! It was a stellar read!
September 15, 2024
There is nothing like a good Erika Rummel book to read on a rainy day—and this is a great one! I read Rummel's book, 'Loneliness Of The Time Traveler,' and found it to be such a compelling and rare work of excellence! Going into this novel, I wasn't sure if I would find it as compelling, but I think I ended up liking it even more!
'What They Said About Luisa,' is a fascinating historical fiction novel about one woman's quest for independence, and the opinions of the people around her. Luisa Abrego was a real person, a slave who grew up in Seville, Spain in the sixteenth century. Luisa worked in the home of Don Diego Rodriguez and his wife, Ana.
Ana long suspected that Diego and Luisa were having an affair, a suspicion that was only confirmed for her when her husband passed away and left a large inheritance to Luisa as well as setting her free.
Though Ana was furious, there was nothing she could do about it and Luisa was free to leave her estate and strike out into the world on her own. For some young women, this might have been an intimidating prospect after a life of slavery, but Luisa was a very independent and ambitious woman.
She began working in the home of an old couple and soon found a man that she wanted to marry-- a sailor. Luisa and Jorge decide to travel to Mexico to seek their fortune, but the shadow of the Spanish Inquisition follows them, and soon Luisa will fall under it's terrifying specter.
This novel is told from the perspectives of different characters that have interacted with Luisa, and each character is so fleshed out and real that I was pulled in from the very first page!
'What They Said About Luisa,' is a fascinating historical fiction novel about one woman's quest for independence, and the opinions of the people around her. Luisa Abrego was a real person, a slave who grew up in Seville, Spain in the sixteenth century. Luisa worked in the home of Don Diego Rodriguez and his wife, Ana.
Ana long suspected that Diego and Luisa were having an affair, a suspicion that was only confirmed for her when her husband passed away and left a large inheritance to Luisa as well as setting her free.
Though Ana was furious, there was nothing she could do about it and Luisa was free to leave her estate and strike out into the world on her own. For some young women, this might have been an intimidating prospect after a life of slavery, but Luisa was a very independent and ambitious woman.
She began working in the home of an old couple and soon found a man that she wanted to marry-- a sailor. Luisa and Jorge decide to travel to Mexico to seek their fortune, but the shadow of the Spanish Inquisition follows them, and soon Luisa will fall under it's terrifying specter.
This novel is told from the perspectives of different characters that have interacted with Luisa, and each character is so fleshed out and real that I was pulled in from the very first page!
October 17, 2023
I was enchanted with every page of this book. Rummel does Luisa Abrego justice, and I appreciated her storytelling technique: Luisa's character and life story is shaped only by those around her, thus speaking to the intricacies historians face when picking apart historical documents. Rarely were the words, thoughts, and lives of women--especially women of color like Luisa--documented from their own perspectives. In this way, Rummel pays homage to "reading between the lines" of a white, male, Christian, and Eurocentric history. But not every chapter is told from the perspective of a white man. There are female voices, too, such as those of Luisa's master and that of the Mother Superior of the Order of Saint Clare. Each of these two perspectives sheds light on the precarity of being female--that is, male property--while also offering areas in these women's lives where they exert their own agency. Luisa, too, finds agency, despite being a slave, then a wife, and then a prisoner of the Inquisition. Her ending is a rather hopeful--but certainly not wholly impossible--one.
Overall, Rummel captures the values, mentalities, and backlashes of the historical period through the various microhistories each chapter (told from the perspective of different characters of gender, class, and employment) offers. This book is on par with similar microhistories, such as James A Sweet's "Domingos Alvares" and Sandra Lauderdale Graham's "Caetana Says No. " Truly a well-researched work of art.
Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn Press for providing me with an ARC of this novel.
Overall, Rummel captures the values, mentalities, and backlashes of the historical period through the various microhistories each chapter (told from the perspective of different characters of gender, class, and employment) offers. This book is on par with similar microhistories, such as James A Sweet's "Domingos Alvares" and Sandra Lauderdale Graham's "Caetana Says No. " Truly a well-researched work of art.
Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn Press for providing me with an ARC of this novel.
June 26, 2024
Say her name: Luisa Abrego. Her life in her own words would have never been recorded simply because she was a woman, a former slave (possibly of Arab, Moroccan descent), and a victim of the 16th-century patriarchy - mired in religious persecution and misogyny. She is voiceless in this novel. We learn snippets of her life’s events from the lens of those who knew her: a former mistress/owner (whose husband sexually molested and abused Luisa from puberty), an aging parish priest who rehomed her infant son, officiated her marriage to a sailor – leaving Seville for a life in Mexico, a ship’s Captain, her husband, and nephew/son. She was attractive - both men and women commented on her beauty. She was quiet with expressive eyes; she was skilled and possessed strong business acumen evidenced by her operating a successful candle shop. She was a pious, meditative industrious woman who experienced so much loss and persecution.
I loved the author’s presentation of the environment and inclusion of the historical facts of the era It included societal views on slavery and The Trade, women (and their roles/place), and the church’s grift, torture, exploitation (and extortion = money grab) during The Inquisition. Although only a mere glimpse of her life is briefly documented, the author’s imagination gives us plausibility into a life redeemed where she overcomes adversity and hardship to obtain some semblance of happiness.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Dundurn Press, for the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the author’s presentation of the environment and inclusion of the historical facts of the era It included societal views on slavery and The Trade, women (and their roles/place), and the church’s grift, torture, exploitation (and extortion = money grab) during The Inquisition. Although only a mere glimpse of her life is briefly documented, the author’s imagination gives us plausibility into a life redeemed where she overcomes adversity and hardship to obtain some semblance of happiness.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Dundurn Press, for the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2024
Luisa is born a slave in Seville at a time when the Spanish are rapidly extending their colonial power over the American continent. Based on a real historical figure, Luisa Abrego, is emancipated and left a healthy inheritance following the death of her master, we follow Luisa's journey across the Atlantic and back again. It’s an interesting historical period, with staunch Christianity penetrating through society, an important tool for the Spanish government to maintain order and control in their new colonies.
We follow Luisa through the voices of those she encounters, never following her own thoughts, but instead learning about her through the words of others. I enjoyed this perspective, we hear from distinct characters who have their own world views, prejudices, and morals. Women like Luisa, born into slavery with little social standing, rarely got the chance to write their own narratives. We learn much of women in history from the standpoint of others, men, or those taught to write - often in religious orders. It felt relevant therefore to see her story through the eyes of others, you are left as a reader to judge who she really was. This was an enjoyable and well written historical novel, covering an interesting period, at the heart of which was a likeable heroine who despite not ever being our main perspective, felt incredibly real.
Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn Press for an advanced reader’s copy of this novel.
We follow Luisa through the voices of those she encounters, never following her own thoughts, but instead learning about her through the words of others. I enjoyed this perspective, we hear from distinct characters who have their own world views, prejudices, and morals. Women like Luisa, born into slavery with little social standing, rarely got the chance to write their own narratives. We learn much of women in history from the standpoint of others, men, or those taught to write - often in religious orders. It felt relevant therefore to see her story through the eyes of others, you are left as a reader to judge who she really was. This was an enjoyable and well written historical novel, covering an interesting period, at the heart of which was a likeable heroine who despite not ever being our main perspective, felt incredibly real.
Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn Press for an advanced reader’s copy of this novel.
May 22, 2024
In this complex multiple perspective novel, readers travel to sixteenth century Spain and Mexico to uncover the true life of Luisa Abrego, an enslaved woman living in Seville. Based on a true sixteenth-century trial and historical documents from the real Luisa’s trial, readers explore the complexity of sixteenth century racial hierarchies, the roles of Catholicism and the Inquisition in private life (especially when it comes to marriage), and the politics of empire and colonialism as experienced by women and enslaved people. Each chapter, told by a different character who witnessed some aspect of Luisa’s trial, gives readers a new insight into this trial and makes the entire situation (and thus the entire novel) even more complex. As the story unfolds and more elements get introduced, readers gain a greater understanding of the complex social systems and matrices of power that Luisa interacts with in the sixteenth-century Spanish empire. Full of complex characters and a wonderfully detailed historical and narrative background, Rummel’s novel is really immersive and complex with its exploration of sixteenth century history in such a vibrant narrative. The characters and multiple perspectives do not overwhelm the reader, instead adding to the depth and complexity of setting and narrative detail Rummel creates in this novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dundurn Press for the advance copy,
Thanks to NetGalley and Dundurn Press for the advance copy,
June 5, 2024
-copy provided by publisher in exchange for honest review- Thank you Dundurn
It is a historical fiction drama about Luisa Abregu and enigmatic woman, slave and mulata, who lived in the 16th century, in Seville and Mexico, during the Spanish Inquisition. She was a free African woman who worked as a domestic servant in Seville. When she meets Jorge they both joined the fleet of Captain Juan Diaz and move to Zacatecas where Jorge starts working in a mine. They make a life together in the new world but unforeseen circumstances will force Luisa to return to Spain where she left a beloved son. The book is about what people say about Luisa. She can be really hard to read and that makes her very attractive, but that characteristic can also create suspicion, in a world in which no one trusts the person next to them because everyone is a potential heretic.
When she is able to speak for herself all she can do is incriminate herself and confess in front of the fiscal of the Inquisition that she is a bigamist. But is she? Will her confession be enough for the court to incriminate her and condemn her to the worst punishment? Will there be a way out for Luisa? Will anyone feel sorry for her and her situation?
This book is a joy to read. The historical context of the story is well researched and documented (the author is an expert on the subject) The multiple points of view makes it very dynamic and pacey.
It is a historical fiction drama about Luisa Abregu and enigmatic woman, slave and mulata, who lived in the 16th century, in Seville and Mexico, during the Spanish Inquisition. She was a free African woman who worked as a domestic servant in Seville. When she meets Jorge they both joined the fleet of Captain Juan Diaz and move to Zacatecas where Jorge starts working in a mine. They make a life together in the new world but unforeseen circumstances will force Luisa to return to Spain where she left a beloved son. The book is about what people say about Luisa. She can be really hard to read and that makes her very attractive, but that characteristic can also create suspicion, in a world in which no one trusts the person next to them because everyone is a potential heretic.
When she is able to speak for herself all she can do is incriminate herself and confess in front of the fiscal of the Inquisition that she is a bigamist. But is she? Will her confession be enough for the court to incriminate her and condemn her to the worst punishment? Will there be a way out for Luisa? Will anyone feel sorry for her and her situation?
This book is a joy to read. The historical context of the story is well researched and documented (the author is an expert on the subject) The multiple points of view makes it very dynamic and pacey.
October 20, 2024
"What they said about Luisa" is a 5/5 book, thanks NetGalley for giving me the chance to read it.
At first I was attracted at the idea of a story that was told in everyone's point of view but the main character; at the end, it was this fact the one that I loved the most. It's original and refreshing in the historical fiction genre. Besides that, knowing Luisa existed made me curious; I loved knowing about her; through her experiences, I could imagine how women lived in the 16th century, specially those who weren't white.
"What they said about Luisa" is told in multiple voices: her master's wife, a priest, the abbess that looks after her illegitimate son, lawyers, sailors... All of them cross their paths with Luisa Abrego and talk about her whereabouts. It's interesting the different views they have on the same person, how they feel about her, how they percieve her quietness, how they judge her actions.
Another interesting point in the novel is how it treats heavy topics as colonialism, religion, the Inquisition, slavery, racism and women's oppression. I really appreciated how considerate and respectful was Erika Rummel while approaching matters these sensitive.
What I would consider "negative" about this book is how slow it is. As it is told by many voices, there are a lot of events that are narrated multiple times and that makes the action move quite slowly. On top of that, the ending comes abruptly, I would have loved a better pacing. Even with all that, the story is really well written, it makes you learn and want to read more. I know I won't forget Luisa in a very long time, she will stick with me through all the voices that painted her out.
At first I was attracted at the idea of a story that was told in everyone's point of view but the main character; at the end, it was this fact the one that I loved the most. It's original and refreshing in the historical fiction genre. Besides that, knowing Luisa existed made me curious; I loved knowing about her; through her experiences, I could imagine how women lived in the 16th century, specially those who weren't white.
"What they said about Luisa" is told in multiple voices: her master's wife, a priest, the abbess that looks after her illegitimate son, lawyers, sailors... All of them cross their paths with Luisa Abrego and talk about her whereabouts. It's interesting the different views they have on the same person, how they feel about her, how they percieve her quietness, how they judge her actions.
Another interesting point in the novel is how it treats heavy topics as colonialism, religion, the Inquisition, slavery, racism and women's oppression. I really appreciated how considerate and respectful was Erika Rummel while approaching matters these sensitive.
What I would consider "negative" about this book is how slow it is. As it is told by many voices, there are a lot of events that are narrated multiple times and that makes the action move quite slowly. On top of that, the ending comes abruptly, I would have loved a better pacing. Even with all that, the story is really well written, it makes you learn and want to read more. I know I won't forget Luisa in a very long time, she will stick with me through all the voices that painted her out.
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