I feel very fortunate to have been born in the United States, but in my heart I feel blessed to be Cuban. Like most Cuban families, my family has passed on their Cuban heritage to me with high intesity, and thus being Cuban is a fundamental part of my being. Cecilia accurately captures the essence of being a Cuban American growing up in the U.S knowing that so many loved ones have been "left behind." As a child I remember when my family arrived to the U.S. from Cuba and the warmth and love I instantly felt for my "new" cousins.

Thank you Cecilia for writing such a great book. I look forward to reading any book you publish!


An emotional and engaging tale of the Cuban Revolution   April 27, 2004
 2 out of 2 found this review helpful

Ghost Heart provides an emotional context and an engaging storyline forthe events leading up to, and following, the Cuban Revolution.Throughthe eyes of the main character, Nora, Cecilia Samartin gives an insightinto the loss and hardship faced by those who had to flee the country. The characters reveal how the revolution took hold and how peopleliterally lost everything, whether they fled to the U.S. or stayed behind. Often, I thought that I was reading the memoirs of a real refugee. Ifyou are Cuban, you will recognize the many nuances and familiar stories. But, the story and themes are strong enough to appeal to anyone. I highlyrecommend it.


Riveting and Poignant   March 27, 2004
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Ghost Heart is a riveting and poignant account of friendship, love, hope, and the sacrifices involved therein. This novel provides its readers with an opportunity for laughter, joy, heartbreak, and tears. Cecilia Samartin's writing is both eloquent and vividly descriptive. It feels as if the reader too is strolling down the malecon with Nora and Alicia.