In In the Time of the Butterflies Free Audiobook Download by Julia Alvarez

"There was a time when we were reading about revolutions in Europe and the Civil War, and everyone said that it was impossible for there to be a revolution here too. But I did not believe them."

Written in the form of a diary, this book tells the story of the time surrounding and following the Cuban Revolution. In addition to telling stories about historical events that occurred during this time period, the writing includes personal reflections which allow listeners to gain an understanding of what life was like for Cubans during this era.

Julia Alvarez follows the story of four generations of a Cuban family through the turbulent decades of the 20th century. The novel opens in 1959 and we meet Flora, a young girl living in Havana, Cuba. By describing Flora's life from her point of view, Alvarez tells us how life was for many women under Fidel Castro's new socialist government. The novel is told through the eyes of four women--Flora's grandmother, her mother, her aunt and herself. Their stories weave together as they talk to each other about their daily lives, their hopes and dreams and their disappointments.

The story takes place during three distinct moments in the history of Dominican Republic. The first moment is before the beginning of the dictatorship, when there was a benevolent dictator who ruled with love and care by protecting all his people. The second moment is during the dictatorship, when the dictator begins to oppress those around him. The third moment is after democracy returns and it becomes a society that embraces love and compassion again. It is a powerful story with an amazing message about how no one should ever give up on fighting for their life

From the author of Of Love and Shadows comes a timeless novel about growing up in Havana's "lost generation." In this moving story, an unforgettable chronicle of Cuba's first female artist of note, three young friends must decide whether to accept their society's norms as they face challenges at every turn. The debut audiobook narrators introduce themselves and share memories of the author in a brief introduction before each chapter.

The novel is beautifully written and translated by Isabel Allende, and is an incredible story of love, family, racism and the struggle to find yourself.