What They Said About Luisa by Erika Rummel (Dundurn Press)

"What They Said About Luisa" serves as a captivating historical novel penned by Erika Rummel, which chronicles the extraordinary journey of Luisa Abrego, a remarkable woman who frees herself from the shackles of slavery in Seville after her master's demise. 

Luisa Abrego, an actual historical figure from colonial Spain, found herself enslaved in Seville, where her master impregnated her before his passing. 

Determined to forge a new path, Luisa embarks on an arduous voyage across treacherous seas and uncharted landscapes, braving countless trials and tribulations. Their ultimate destination is Mexico, where they aspire to acquire land for silver mining. However, their plans are beset by further challenges when their caravan falls prey to attack by Indigenous warriors. Throughout these tumultuous circumstances, Luisa's illegitimate child is nurtured and cared for by the benevolent nuns of St. Ursula.

Within the captivating pages of this novel, themes of freedom, identity, and the unique struggles faced by women in this colonial era unfold with profound depth. 

Erika Rummel, the visionary author and historian, crafts a vivid and poignant narrative by ingeniously avoiding the traditional first- or third-person perspective, instead choosing to manifest the voices of the eyewitnesses who crossed paths with Luisa. This ingenious writing technique allows each of the eleven chapters to present Luisa's story from a different external vantage point, presenting a rich tapestry of perspectives. While some of these narrators harbor empathy for Luisa, others are unwaveringly hostile, notably her former master's wife. 

Rummel's decision to keep Luisa's thoughts veiled proves thought-provoking, reminding readers that her true essence remains obscured. The intricate web of conflicting testimonies invites readers to form their interpretations of Luisa's experiences and character. By casting doubt on the reliability of these narratives, Rummel subtly underscores the racial biases and pervasive influence of the Christian church within society. 

These discernable influences render the accounts of Luisa's witnesses somewhat dubious, requiring readers to exercise discernment. Nevertheless, amid the fluctuating perspectives, Luisa's genuine character and benevolence shine through. Rummel artfully breathes life into each character, delving deep into their innermost thoughts, emotions, and motivations. Through meticulous research, the author seamlessly integrates Luisa's existence within the historical fabric of the era, fashioning an authentic and immersive portrayal of the time and place. This enchanting and engaging tale ensures that readers become wholly invested in Luisa's arduous journey and the formidable challenges she must overcome.

Luisa's significance resides in her captivating tale, which illuminates the trials of women, particularly those of color, during the colonial era. Her narrative also showcases the intricate nature of identity and liberation within a time when slavery still reigned.

Erika Rummel's magnificent novel presents a fictionalized rendition of Luisa's life, drawing inspiration from actual trial records of the remarkable woman from the sixteenth century. This mesmerizing account unveils the enigmatic protagonist, simultaneously alluring and silent, modest yet determined, evoking profound emotions within anyone who encounters her extraordinary destiny. It is through this distinctive storytelling approach that the author cultivates genuine empathy towards the central character, who faces numerous prejudices. Rummel masterfully weaves together each narrative, skillfully avoiding repetition, and building towards a subtle crescendo, ultimately culminating in the profoundly moving final two chapters.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly commend Rummel for her exceptional work in this literary masterpiece. Undeniably, it is a book that deserves to be cherished and experienced.

5/5