What an interesting way to learn about the city's beginning through the travels, perils, and stories of the great characters

I suppose the life changing part concerns a shift in my perception of how California was settled

If you like historical fiction, cultural diversity, and romance, you will love this book! I loved Allende's writing in this book, which was for adults, unlike the City of the Beasts series, in which her writing was not as good

Her story is filled with adventure, particularly while she lives her new life among men, prostitutes, Chinese and Chilean enclaves in California, and an amazing array of other transplants searching for fortune

Sort of a South American Annie Oakley, I liked this book a lot

I think that Isabel Allende is a great author and I can not wait to read her other pieces