Customer Reviews

The Accidental Santera: A Novel

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When I first learned about this novel from Dr. Jewell Parker Rhodes who is the author of other novels about Vodun, I was excited. Being a person who practices Orisha/Ifa myself, I wanted to know how this author would depict the culture, how Santeria differs from Ifa and Lukumi, how much of the secrets she would reveal, etc. I was pleasantly surprised to be drawn in from the very beginning. With that, the story progressed nicely. It was exciting. Definitely a page-turner until the end.

I loved reading about the Latino culture, family ties, and shared spiritual/religious beliefs. It made me wish I had relatives in The Religion growing up. The author did a great job of letting the reader into the culture without explaining away everything that happened, whether it had to do with a ritual or the Spanish or Yoruba terms that were used. She made sure you understood but that you could also deduce some things for yourself, without compromising the religion's secrets.

The storyline about the character's husband was good. I couldn't wait for him to "come around". The only thing I couldn't relate to (which is NOT a problem with the story; it's just my personality) is how concerned the character was with what people at work would think about her if they found out she was a Santera. I am proud to honor my Ancestors and the Orisha because I understand and appreciate what they represent. In fact, this book does an excellent job of demonstrating what they represent. They represent spiritual power! Ase! I'm adding this book to my Amazon Listmania of favorite novels.

As a non-initiate, believer in the Religion, a scientist, and a latina this book struck many chords with me. The character development is fantastic, and they all have such flair and color. You cannot help but be sucked in from the start. A fun and entertaining read. It takes you through a spiritual and educational journey. I recommend this book even if you have only heard of Santeria in passing.

For anyone who needed an outside prospective on this beautiful practice, through this book can have a great look into the culture, the feel, and the power of it.

This book was very real to me. Often times you are very aware that you are reading fiction, but this book connected with me. It's more than just a book about santeria. It's a personal journey that the author invites us into. The relationships and characters crafted in this novel made it easily one of my favorites of this genre. A small glimpse into La Regla de Ocha was intriguing also. Good book.

I am a U.S. born Latina PhD scientist/academician who was not exposed la religion until my late 20's. In many ways I share an almost parallel life with the protagonist/author. I was however a bit put off by how little she understood "herself", shocked by her willingness to publically display so much sacred information, and disappointed by her failure to describe anything substantive about her experiences of pregnancy/childbearing/motherhood - the reason for entering la religion in the first place! An OK read, but with a disjointed, anticlimactic ending. Several opportunities lost and too many liberties taken.

In her book, "The Accidental Santera", Irete Lazo weaves together a fictional account of what has happened to numerous people who find La Regla de Ocha.

Inspired by the author's own spiritual journey and entry into the religion of Santeria, this book chronicles the short time span of one woman's finding of the religion to her initiation as a Priest. Amazingly accurate in real details regarding the religion and rituals that are performed, this book gives a glimpse of the stories that have gone unshared by Orisha Priests all over the world. Many are called to Lucumi/Santeria by the Orisha, and many must make the quick journey from outsider to initiate. This novel offers a beautiful look at the journey of one woman and the struggles that can come up in your life as you dive into the mysteries of the Orisha.

Not intended to be an informative guide to Santeria, this book should be read with the hope of witnessing the blossoming of one woman's spiritual self rather than as a means of Santeria 101. Filled with accurate details, and real possibilities, this novel helps to connect an Orisha devotee or spiritual seeker with a sense of spiritual awakening.

Though the character is largely based on the life of the author, this is still a great step forward in the genre of Orisa fiction. It was refreshing to see the weaving of different themes like culture, religion, skepticism, love and lust offered by someone with genuine experience and not looking to exploit Santeria for its 'shock factor'. I wish this book success so that others will follower in Lazo's foot-steps. santeria.blog.com

I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Accidental Santera...from the very beginning the story grabbed my attention and engaged me. As someone who is deeply involved with academics as well as a spiritually evolved woman, I could relate to the characters on a personal level. Although this is an enjoyable novel, it's also a great resource for anyone who is even slightly curious about the Santeria/Yoruba way of life. I was sad when the story came to an end. I LOVED it. Purchase the book, you won't be disappointed!!!

Irete's book is a fascinating insight into the religion of Lucumi/Santeria. It follows the journey of a highly educated scientist who is initiated into the religion in Miami. Whether you are a priest of the religion or just looking for a good read, you will find this book draws you in, while giving you insight into the life of one Latina woman who rediscovers her spiritual roots.

As a santera, I was curious to see how this book would present the Religion to the general public, as many of the ceremonies are still very private. Irete Lazo does a good job of opening the door and letting outsiders see the heart of Santeria without compromising.

The characters were well developed, the, the story line somewhat predictable, but you will keep turning the pages till the end. I'm hoping to see more from this author.