I'm a great fan of Louis de Bernieres, having been introduced to him through the previous novel in this trilogy 'The War of Don Emmanuel's Nether Parts'. I enjoyed this book but ultimately was left wanting for something more from this story's narrative conclusion. Perhaps it's the nature of the Don Vivo myth that builds to epic, magical proportions. It's certainly the stuff of folklore and national legend but is it something more? Felt to some degree that the journey sets out there but never quite gets to its destination. Nonetheless this is yet another wonderful creation of the imagination. Looking forward to seeing how Don Vivo's story continues in the final installment...

It doesn’t matter that this is part of a trilogy!!! Just read it!!!
I’m hesitant to say people will like it, but I think magical realism has just become one of my favorite genres :)
I really liked this book, it was very fun and animated with cooky characters. Senor Vivo reminded me of inspector crusoe from the pink panther films (live action), he survives many assassination attempts and doesn’t seem to realize he is the one people want to kill. BUT this book is very sneaky, you get to know the characters, you learn to love them and think ahhhh this is all very happy then BAM the coca lords strike and I am sad and I think oh god drugs and the government and the gringos have done South America very bad. I thought it was very clever, the way the story is so unbelievable but there are elements of truth and idk it’s just good to read something out of your comfort zone.
I also liked the talk about religion in these area, the weird rituals and meshing of religions from the conquistadors, slaves and indigenous people.

Mark really pulled through XD

Excellent continuation from The War of Don Emmanuel's Nether Parts, though it would be hard to follow the story without the background. Dionisio is such a tragic and vivid character, and the story is equally comical and moving.

Bravurně napsané, skvěle přeložené Viktorem Janišem. Kdo se pustí do drogových baronů, nemůže se divit, že mu jde o krk.