You Shall Leave Your Land

The descendants of seven children fathered by a Catholic priest and his longtime secret lover live in Peru. Renato Cisneros, a descendant of that clandestine affair, struggles to learn about his origins from recalcitrant relatives. As buried secrets are brought to light, the story of Nicolasa's progeny unfolds, bound up with key moments in the development of the Republic of Peru since its independence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2023
Publisher: Charco Press

The captivating history of Peru is intricately woven through the lives of the descendants of seven children fathered by a Catholic priest and his lifelong secret lover.

Renato Cisneros' great-great-grandmother, Nicolasa, bore these seven children through her enduring secret love, who was also her priest. Raised alone in the nineteenth century Peru, she faced the challenges of single parenthood with unwavering strength and determination.

More than a century later, Renato, the descendent of that clandestine affair, embarks on a quest to unravel the mysteries of his origins. Despite facing resistance from recalcitrant relatives who mirror the adventures and dalliances of their ancestors, Renato perseveres in his search for truth. As buried secrets are unearthed, the story of Nicolasa's progeny unfolds, interwoven with significant moments in the development of the Republic of Peru since its independence.

This remarkable tale of love, secrecy, and family legacy offers a unique perspective on Peru's history, shedding light on the complex social and cultural dynamics that have shaped the nation over the centuries. Through the lives of Nicolasa's descendants, we witness the triumphs and struggles, the sacrifices and triumphs, of a people who have weathered the storms of time and emerged stronger and more resilient.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 196 x 132 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913867300