"Few contemporary writers understand noir as well as Padura, and far fewer convey Cuba with such grit and sensuality." Playboy
"Overlaid with a rich smoky patina, an atmosphere that reeks of slums and riches, cigar smoke and exotic perfumes. Havana Black is a strong tasting book, a rich feast of wit and feeling." Independent
"Drenched with that beguiling otherness so appealing to fans of mysteries of other cultures, Havana Blue will also appeal to those who appreciate the sultry lyricism of James Lee Burke. " Booklist
"...a magnificent Dickensian evocation of the city's street hassle; it takes in drug dealers, hookers, people queuing for pizza, newly-weds, the hotels and baseball fans, and captures the enthralling gloom of dimly lit, apocalyptic early-evening Havana.' Times Literary Supplement
"Havana Gold is a textured treat for those who like their detective fiction served long and lazy with a double shot of rum." Financial Times
"Conde's quest follows the basic rhythm of the whodunit, but Padura syncopates Havana Red with brilliant riffs on Cuban sex, society, religion, even food." Independent
