The Cuban Heiress
Chanel Cleeton
336 pages
Berkley Publishing
published April 11, 2023
I had no idea the Morro Castle was an actual ship until the author’s note at the end of the book. I am always such a fan of learning while I read fiction, so this pleased me. Told in dual timelines by Elena and Catherine, I was engrossed in the story. Of course I love mysteries and even more I love a little mash up of genres. This was a historical fiction novel set in 1934 with a mystery surrounding these women. And lest I forget, a little romance too.
Without spoiling any of the mystery, I love when things are not always what they seem. There is deep characterization of these women. I really cared what was going on and what would become of them. I rooted for them to find justice and have a happy ending.
Obviously, the author’s fans will love this one as she’s written another great book. But I think the combinations of genres can appeal to a broad audience.
About the book
In 1934, a luxury cruise becomes a fight for survival as two women’s pasts collide on a round-trip voyage from New York to Havana in New York Times bestselling author Chanel Cleeton’s page-turning new novel inspired by the true story of the SS Morro Castle.
New York heiress Catherine Dohan seemingly has it all. There’s only one problem. It’s a lie. As soon as the Morro Castle leaves port, Catherine’s past returns with a vengeance and threatens her life. Joining forces with a charismatic jewel thief, Catherine must discover who wants her dead—and why.
Elena Palacio is a dead woman. Or so everyone thinks. After a devastating betrayal left her penniless and on the run, Elena’s journey on the Morro Castle is her last hope. Steeped in secrecy and a burning desire for revenge, her return to Havana is a chance to right the wrong that has been done to her—and her prey is on the ship.
As danger swirls aboard the Morro Castle and their fates intertwine, Elena and Catherine must risk everything to see justice served once and for all.
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