"A modern tragedy on the grand scale . . . As dark as spilled blood." –Salman Rushdie, The New Republic
"A vast, fantastic, thunderous novel." –
The Times (UK) "A magnificent storyteller . . . [Vargas Llosa] gives us a cast of unforgettable characters swept up in the upheaval. . . . This is the work of a master, coming into full realization of his powers." –
The Boston Sunday Globe "His masterpiece." –
Madison Smartt Bell "An extraordinary achievement. The author gives a wonderfully vivid and impartial picture of individuals and communities." –
The Guardian (UK)