Malinche - Audio CD - Unabridged Author:Laura Esquivel, Maria Conchita Alonso (Narrator) When Malinalli, a member of the tribe conquered by the Aztec warriors, first meets the conquistador Hernán Cortés and becomes his interpreter, she -- like many -- believes him to be the reincarnated forefather god of her tribe. Naturally, she assumes she must welcome him, and help him destroy the Aztec empire and free her people. T... more »he two fall passionately in love, but Malinalli soon realizes that Cortés's thirst for conquest is all too human, and that he is willing to destroy anyone, even his own men -- even their own love.
Audio Review:
Much like Esquivel's timeless "Like Water for Chocolate", this novel is a magical, spiritual story that highlights the strength of women and the intensity of relationships. Maria Conchita Alonso's musical voice is an ideal vehicle for the telling of a vivid fictionalization of Mexico's history. There are moments when the voice that is positively melodious in one sentence is awkward in others, but it seems to be more the result of the translation than any weakness in Alonso's performance. Alonso effervesces with a rich enthusiasm for both the story and its language, and the result is an engaging, passionate audiobook. -- AudioFile