Pierced by the Sun by Laura Esquivel & The Cipher by Isabella Maldonado: A Journey Through Magic and Crime
A Good Quote from Each Book
“There is a light that pierces even the darkest corners of the soul. You can run, but the light will find you.”
Esquivel’s powerful words reflect the novel’s overarching theme—personal transformation through confronting one’s inner truth. This quote encapsulates the journey of Lupita, a woman torn between guilt, pain, and redemption.
From The Cipher:
“Survival is a choice. You either give up or fight with every ounce of strength in you.”
This line defines the essence of The Cipher’s lead character, Nina Guerrera. The relentless struggle for survival shapes Nina’s path, pushing her to the edge as she battles both her inner demons and a calculating serial killer.
Summary of Pierced by the Sun and The Cipher
The Cipher (Nina Guerrera Book 1)
Length: 386 pages
Genre: Crime Thriller, Mystery
Publication Year: July 1, 2016
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
In Pierced by the Sun, Laura Esquivel brings us the story of Lupita, a woman broken by trauma who embarks on a mystical journey toward self-healing. Set against the backdrop of contemporary Mexico, Lupita witnesses a political assassination that forces her to confront both external corruption and her internal wounds. The novel is infused with Esquivel’s trademark magical realism, where the ordinary blends seamlessly with the extraordinary, creating a narrative about the fight for justice and personal redemption.
Key Facts: Accolades and Recognition
Pierced by the Sun received widespread acclaim for its evocative blend of magical realism and social commentary. Laura Esquivel’s lyrical prose has earned her a place among the literary greats of Mexico.
The Cipher was an Amazon Editors’ Pick in the Mystery, Thriller & Suspense category and recognized as one of the Best Books of 2020 by Amazon, showcasing the series’ widespread appeal.
10 Books Similar to Pierced by the Sun and The Cipher
If you enjoyed these books, here are ten similar reads you might want to check out:
Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel
The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
In the Woods by Tana French
The Alienist by Caleb Carr
About the Authors: Laura Esquivel and Isabella Maldonado
Laura Esquivel
Laura Esquivel is best known for her international bestseller Like Water for Chocolate. Born in Mexico, her novels often merge magic, spirituality, and cultural traditions, making her a central figure in the magical realism genre. Pierced by the Sun is a continuation of her exploration of the human spirit and its capacity to transcend personal and societal limitations.
Isabella Maldonado
A former police officer and FBI-trained hostage negotiator, Isabella Maldonado uses her extensive law enforcement background to write gripping crime fiction. Her Nina Guerrera series has been praised for its strong, complex female lead and the authentic portrayal of FBI procedures. Maldonado’s real-world experience adds a depth of realism to her thrilling plots.
Writing Style Report: Mystical Poetry Meets Gritty Realism
Esquivel’s Style
Laura Esquivel’s prose is mesmerizing, poetic, and laden with rich imagery. She masterfully uses magical realism to weave a story that transcends the ordinary, blending spirituality and politics seamlessly. Her writing in Pierced by the Sun is both lyrical and reflective, inviting readers to journey through complex emotional landscapes.
Maldonado’s Style
Maldonado’s writing is fast-paced, precise, and packed with tension. She balances sharp, action-driven dialogue with intricate procedural details, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. In The Cipher, Maldonado’s direct and often gritty style captures the raw intensity of crime-solving, while also delving into the psychological toll it takes on the characters.
5 Key Takeaways from Pierced by the Sun and The Cipher
🌞 Truth Can’t Be Escaped
In Pierced by the Sun, Lupita’s journey reflects the inescapable nature of truth—it will find you, no matter how deeply it’s buried.
🕵️♀️ Survival Demands Resilience
Nina Guerrera’s character in The Cipher reminds us that survival is not just about overcoming external threats, but also mastering our internal battles.
💫 Magical Realism Makes the Mundane Magical
Esquivel’s masterful use of magical realism transforms everyday struggles into profound spiritual awakenings.
💥 Tension Drives the Narrative
Maldonado’s ability to build suspense in The Cipher keeps the reader engaged, with each chapter escalating the stakes.
💪 Strong Women, Strong Stories
Both Lupita and Nina are powerful female protagonists who, despite their flaws, demonstrate immense strength in the face of adversity.
What’s Unique About These Books?
Pierced by the Sun stands apart for its beautiful fusion of political intrigue and mystical elements. Esquivel uses magical realism not just as a narrative device, but as a lens through which readers can explore societal and personal transformation.
The Cipher distinguishes itself through its authentic portrayal of FBI investigations, with Maldonado’s real-world experience providing a rare level of procedural detail. The character of Nina Guerrera is a refreshing twist on the crime-thriller heroine—both vulnerable and fiercely determined.
Opinion: Pierced by the Sun and The Cipher Shine in Their Own Right
Both of these books left a lasting impression. Pierced by the Sun is a contemplative, soul-searching read that will appeal to fans of magical realism. Esquivel’s rich, evocative writing makes it a pleasure to read. The Cipher, on the other hand, is a rollercoaster of a thriller that grips you from page one and never lets go. Nina Guerrera is a complex and engaging protagonist, and Maldonado’s action-packed plot is full of twists and turns.
Who Would Enjoy These Books?
Pierced by the Sun is perfect for readers who enjoy literary fiction with a touch of magical realism. If you’re a fan of authors like Isabel Allende or Gabriel García Márquez, this is a must-read.
The Cipher will appeal to fans of crime thrillers who enjoy strong, complex female leads and pulse-pounding plots. If you loved The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, you’ll find yourself hooked by Maldonado’s Nina Guerrera series.
Other Books by Laura Esquivel and Isabella Maldonado
Laura Esquivel
Like Water for Chocolate
The Law of Love
Swift as Desire
Between Two Fires
Pierced by the Sun
Isabella Maldonado
The Phoenix
A Different Dawn
Death Blow
Blood’s Echo
The Cipher
Suggested Reading Plan
Begin with Pierced by the Sun to immerse yourself in its meditative, spiritual tone. It’s best enjoyed slowly, savoring the poetic prose. Afterward, dive into The Cipher for a fast-paced, high-stakes read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Top Authors in Similar Genres
Isabel Allende – The House of the Spirits
Gabriel García Márquez – One Hundred Years of Solitude
Carlos Ruiz Zafón – The Shadow of the Wind
Alex Michaelides – The Silent Patient
Stieg Larsson – The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo