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356
Novel • Fiction
El Paso, Texas • 1990s
2005
Adult
18+ years
Desert Blood by Alicia Gaspar de Alba is set in 1998 during Juárez's wave of brutal murders targeting young factory workers. Women’s Studies professor Ivon Villa returns to her hometown of El Paso to adopt a baby but becomes entangled in solving the murders after the baby's mother is killed and Ivon's sister disappears, leading her to uncover a vast, cross-border conspiracy. The book involves graphic depictions of violence and sexual assault.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Gritty
Challenging
640 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alicia Gaspar de Alba's Desert Blood is lauded for its gripping narrative and cultural insight into the femicides of Juárez. Critics praise its powerful depiction of social issues and well-developed characters. However, some note its complex subplots and intense themes may be overwhelming for certain readers. Overall, it is a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Readers captivated by sociopolitical landscapes and gender issues in works like The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros or The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson will find Desert Blood compelling. This novel delves into the raw and gripping reality of femicides along the US-Mexico border, meshing mystery with poignant cultural insights.
640 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Irene Villa
Ivon's 16-year-old sister, nicknamed "Lucha," who is academically accomplished and eager to join Ivon in California. She seeks independence and faces significant challenges throughout the story.
Ximena
Ivon's oldest cousin, a social worker helping with at-risk youth. She balances her sharpness and street smarts with a dedication to family and work.
Father Francis ("Frank")
A priest in Juárez running the organization Contra el Silencio, which searches for missing girls. He is committed to advocacy and often works with Ximena on community issues.
Raquel Montenegro
Ivon's older ex-girlfriend who remains in the closet out of fear of her brother. She is complex, with past ties to Ivon and current ties to Ivon's cousin.
Captain Jeremy Wilcox ("J.W.")
A White man Ivon encounters who makes insensitive comments and is later involved with events related to the Juárez situation. His presence suggests deeper issues of corruption.
Pete McCuts
A new police detective assigned to Irene's case with family ties that grant him privileges. He is eager and developing his investigative skills.
Lydia Villa
Ivon and Irene's mother, a widow critical of Ivon's lifestyle. She struggles with acceptance of Ivon's choices and carries past grievances.
Rubí Reyna
A reporter and cohost of "Mujeres Sin Fronteras". She assists Ivon at critical moments and is known for her focus on women's issues through her professional platform.
356
Novel • Fiction
El Paso, Texas • 1990s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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