What Readers are Saying
For Freedom's Sake is a powerful historical novel that gives voice to the families whose lives were altered forever by the Unaccompanied Children's Program that took place during Fidel Castro’s regime. Socarras does a great job of providing a dual mother and daughter perspective which shows the desperation of the parents left behind and the heart-breaking experiences of the children who were sent to the United States. I loved that the work explores Anne’s conflicting emotions that depict her as an authentic character who is disillusioned by the secrets held by her adoptive mother and her painful childhood. The events in the story are also relevant today as they touch on immigration issues and the plight of many immigrants. For Freedom's Sake by Aleida Socarras is a heartfelt novel centered on a compelling main character.
- Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
- From Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
I particularly enjoyed that the author told the parallel story of Ana’s birth mother in tandem with Ana’s story. The travails and hardships faced by Elena back in Cuba as she fought for her freedom, her sanity, and most of all the chance to go to America and find her darling daughter was a wonderful counterpoint to Ana’s own story. I also appreciated the beautiful and delicate synchronicities of Ana’s adventure that the author wove so skillfully through the narrative. One other aspect that I loved was the dynamic in Martin’s own Cuban refugee family, which highlighted for me the different attitudes refugees often adopt toward their former fellow countrymen once they are settled in their adopted country. This was a wonderful, fantastic read that I can highly recommend.
*****
Sara L. - Amazon Review
Immerse yourself - captures the human experience and educates us about Cuba and her people
March 7, 2022
Easy to immerse yourself in this book ... rich use of language with heartwarming and heartbreaking experiences. An easy read that captures us in the struggles and joys of life while sharing some of the history of Cuba and her people. Also really enjoy Aleida's blog referenced on her bio page and in the book.
Sheila Banani - Amazon Review
Prepare to laugh and to cry
October 31, 2020
This homespun story seems closer to truth than to fiction with character details which read like biographies of family relationships as well as Cuban cultural details. The central gem of all the jewels shining in this story is the sister who has chosen to live her life as a nun and her adventurous life. From Cuba to Puerto Rico, to Miami and Turkey, this nun leads anything but a contemplative life. She is a sister of charity with a life of service.
Gerri A. - Amazon Review
A story so beautiful one wants it to be true
January 8, 2021
This book is a charming saga spanning several generations of Cubans who fled their homes for asylum in the United States. One member of the family, a daughter named Lola, dedicates her life to the Catholic Church and becomes a nun. As the protagonist, Lola shares the family’s story as she at times struggles but always holds strong to her vows to the Church. The writing in this short novel has a surreal quality. Written much of the time in present tense and from Lola’s point of view, the writing and the content both sooth and stimulate. Although I believe the story is primarily fiction, I sincerely hope that someone like Lola really lived and brought comfort to so many people. Aleida Socarras presents a compelling, consistent voice in this debut novel. She is a born storyteller.
Emily Petito - Amazon Review
Fantastic and easy read
November 12, 2020
Fantastic book and an easy read. The story was very interesting and the evolving relationship between the sisters was interesting. I strongly recommend this as a read. Continued success on the book.
Ray M - Amazon Review
Quick enjoyable read
December 3, 2020
What a great read. Enjoyable and easy to read.