Cuba is a recurring theme on this blog; I definitely look at any book with this country in the title or description!
Today I’m writing about a book that was different than anything I’ve read before even though I’ve circled around similar topics, genres, and locations.
Hotel Cuba by Aaron Hamburger
Two Jewish sisters are fleeing a violent and troubled area of Russia after World War I and the Soviet Revolution. Even though they have another sister already living in America, the two can’t get into the United States legally. So, instead, they sail to Havana, Cuba. Hence the name “Hotel Cuba” where they wait for the right opportunity to get to America. Of course, Havana has its charms and both sisters eventually find their own love for it. But will they stay in Havana or find a way to America after all?
What I liked about this book besides the setting is that it didn’t fall into presenting certain situations as only good or only bad. There were several plot points that weren’t simply presented as one way or the other but instead some of this and some of that. People, places, and situations are complicated, and that is what this book shows.
Although this author had not written historical fiction before, this book was based on his grandparents’ lives. Well done!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a download of this book in exchange for an honest review.