Zorro

Description

Bestselling author Isabel Allende's first adult novel since 'Portrait in Sepia' - beautiful, disturbing and atmospheric. Beneath the mask, there is a man. And in his heart burns the fire of injustice ... Duels at dawn, fierce battles with pirates and impossible rescues - these are the deeds that forged the legend of Zorro. But where did the man begin? Southern California, late 18th century: Diego de la Vega is a child of two worlds, his father an aristocratic Spaniard, his mother a Shoshone warrior. Growing up he witnesses the brutual injustices dealt to Native Americans. Later, following the example of his fencing master, the young Diego joins a secret movement devoted to helping the powerless. His first steps on the road to heroism have been taken. But a great rival will emerge from the ranks of the cruel oppressors. How will Zorro defeat him? And will his childhood sweetheart Isabel claim the prize she so longs for - his true love?

Isabel Allende was born in 1942, the cousin of Salvador Allende, who went on to become famous as the elected President of Chile deposed in a CIA-backed coup. She worked as a journalist, playwright and children's writer in Chile until 1974 and then in Venezuela until 1984. Her first novel for adults, 'The House of the Spirits', was published in Spanish in 1982, beginning life as a letter to her dying grandfather. It was an international sensation, and ever since all her books have been acclaimed and adored in numberless translations worldwide.

'Beautiful and disturbing and profound!told in Allende's characteristically dizzying style.' Ian Sansom, Guardian 'Heroism doesn't come more mysterious or more dashing!Pacey and atmospheric, this is a tale of love, rivalry and the pursuit of justice.' Mail on Sunday 'The swashbuckling Zorro takes on new life in Allende's saga!never less than entertaining.' Margaret Walters, Sunday Times 'Isabel Allende leaves few swashes unbuckled as she gives Diego's saga a smooth, limpid flow. Highly entertaining.' Independent