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47 pages 1 hour read

When We Left Cuba

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Chanel Cleeton

When We Left Cuba

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

346

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Palm Beach, Florida • 1960s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In When We Left Cuba by Chanel Cleeton, Beatriz Perez, exiled in Palm Beach following the Cuban Revolution, agrees to work for the CIA to take down Fidel Castro, believed responsible for her brother's death. Her mission conflicts with her romance with a U.S. senator as tensions between the U.S. and Cuba escalate, forcing Beatriz to choose between her quest for vengeance and her personal desires. The book contains themes of political violence and espionage.

Mysterious

Nostalgic

Romantic

Emotional

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

50,291 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Chanel Cleeton's When We Left Cuba captivates with its rich historical setting and strong, determined heroine. Set during the turbulent 1960s, it blends romance, espionage, and political intrigue. While some may find the pacing uneven and secondary characters underdeveloped, the novel's vivid atmosphere and emotional depth leave a lasting impression.

Who should read this

Who Should Read When We Left Cuba?

Readers who enjoy When We Left Cuba by Chanel Cleeton are typically fans of historical fiction with a blend of romance and political intrigue. Ideal for those captivated by 20th-century Cuban history, reminiscent of novels like The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and Next Year in Havana by the same author.

4.2

50,291 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Beatriz Perez

The protagonist and narrator of the novel, she is the second-eldest Perez daughter known for her beauty and controversial actions. She navigates life post-Cuba and becomes involved in espionage, seeking independence and adventure.

A US senator and romantic interest for Beatriz, known for his attractiveness and aristocratic background. He grapples with his feelings for Beatriz and her involvement in dangerous activities.

Cuban childhood friend of Beatriz’s family and a key figure in her ongoing connection to Cuba. He is a secondary character involved in covert activities and shares a complicated relationship with Beatriz.

A taciturn character who offers Beatriz opportunities and the independence she desires. He is involved in espionage and represents Beatriz’s link to the challenging life she seeks.

Book Details
Pages

346

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Palm Beach, Florida • 1960s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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