Let me tell you about this book that completely transported me to 1920s Ecuador! The Spanish Daughter isn't just historical fiction - it's like biting into a piece of dark chocolate with unexpected flavor notes.

Puri's journey hooked me from the first chapter. Imagine traveling to claim your inheritance, only to have your husband murdered in your place? Her decision to assume his identity had me constantly wondering when (not if) she'd be discovered. The tension was delicious!

What really stood out were the sensory details - the smell of cacao beans roasting, the sticky tropical heat, the taste of European chocolate recipes meeting South American ingredients. I could practically feel the plantation mud between my toes during Puri's farm inspections.

The family dynamics reminded me of a telenovela (in the best way). Each sibling had distinct motives, and I kept changing my mind about who was behind the murder attempt. That scene where Puri nearly blows her cover during a chocolate-making demonstration? My heart was racing!

Yes, some suspension of disbelief is required (how does no one notice she's a woman?), but the rich historical context about Ecuador's cacao trade made everything feel grounded. By the end, I was craving hot chocolate and planning imaginary trips to Guayaquil.

Perfect for readers who want history with drama, foodie details with danger, and strong female leads who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty - literally, in Puri's case!