Open Heart

This family novel explores love, loss, and resilience in Spain after the Civil War, highlighting the author's parents' intense relationship in Open Heart.

In Open Heart, Elvira Lindo presents an intimate exploration of family dynamics against the backdrop of post-Civil War Spain. This poignant narrative delves into the complex relationship between her parents, whose love was both passionate and tumultuous. Through countless fights and reconciliations, their bond profoundly impacted the lives of their children, revealing the intricacies of love and the scars it can leave. The story is not just about love, but also about survival and resilience in a time of hardship.

The novel introduces us to Manuel Lindo, a man who rose from humble beginnings to build a career in the Dredging and Construction Company. As his job forced the family to relocate frequently, the children's upbringing was characterized by instability and unpredictability. Elvira and her siblings navigated a childhood filled with the volatility of their father's temper and the gradual decline of their mother's health, which ultimately led to her untimely death. This backdrop of struggle and transition serves as a powerful testament to the challenges faced by families during this era.

Open Heart begins with nine-year-old Manuel's experiences in Madrid in 1939 and takes readers on a sweeping journey through Spain. Lindo's beautifully crafted prose offers insights into love's multifaceted nature, capturing the essence of familial bonds and the enduring impact of past struggles on future generations.