By Coral Gables Gazette staff

Books & Books will host bestselling author Chanel Cleeton for a live, in-person discussion of her highly anticipated new novel, The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes, on Tuesday, September 30 at 7 p.m. at its 265 Aragon Avenue location in Coral Gables. The event is free and open to the public, with books available for purchase on site. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with Cleeton directly, ask questions, and hear insights into her writing process, which often involves extensive research and personal narratives that intertwine with historical events.

Set across three time periods—Boston in 1900, Havana in 1966, and London in 2024—Cleeton’s latest work is a sweeping literary mystery that spans continents, generations, and revolutions. At its center is a rare, possibly singular book that passes from one woman’s hands to another, carrying with it secrets, sacrifices, and the shadow of history.

Chanel Cleeton’s writing not only captivates readers with its compelling characters but also immerses them in the rich tapestry of Cuban history that shapes her stories. The backdrop of her novels often reflects the struggles faced by Cuban immigrants, highlighting their resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Her storytelling has the power to transport readers to different times and places, creating a vivid connection to the past.

The themes of connection and cultural identity play a significant role in Cleeton’s works, and The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes is no exception. As readers journey through the lives of Eva, Pilar, and Margo, they will discover the profound impact of history on personal narratives, emphasizing the importance of storytelling as a means of preserving cultural heritage.

Cleeton’s novels also delve into the complexities of women’s experiences, offering a lens through which to explore issues of agency, empowerment, and the struggle for autonomy within patriarchal societies. In The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes, these themes are brought to life through the personal journeys of the protagonists, who navigate societal expectations and historical constraints while seeking their own truths.

As Eva Fuentes embarks on her summer study program at Harvard, her experience reflects the dreams and aspirations of many young women seeking education and independence during a time of societal upheaval. This narrative thread not only showcases her determination but also serves as a poignant reminder of the barriers faced by women in pursuit of knowledge and self-expression.

Pilar Castillo’s role as a librarian in 1966 Cuba symbolizes the power of literature as a form of resistance. Her commitment to preserving the manuscript despite the dangers she faces illustrates the profound connection between books and freedom. This aspect of the story invites readers to consider the role of literature in shaping political narratives and the courage it takes to stand against oppression.

In 2024, Margo Reynolds’ search for the manuscript not only highlights the value of historical artifacts but also underscores the emotional weight that such objects carry. As she delves deeper into the manuscript’s provenance, Margo discovers the personal stories intertwined with the pages, illuminating the sacrifices made by those who came before her and their lasting impact on the present.

Cleeton’s personal connection to her heritage enriches her narratives, as she draws inspiration from her own family’s history. This authenticity resonates throughout her work, inviting readers to engage with the emotional landscapes of her characters while reflecting on their own experiences and identities.

Moreover, Cleeton’s academic background in International Relations informs her understanding of global issues, allowing her to weave complex political landscapes into her storytelling. This depth enables her to create narratives that are not only engaging but also thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on the broader implications of history and memory in shaping personal and collective identities.

As readers delve into The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes, they will experience the emotional resonance of Cleeton’s writing, which captures the nuances of familial bonds and the enduring strength of women. The characters’ journeys are emblematic of the many untold stories that deserve recognition, reminding us of the importance of listening to diverse voices in literature.

A story told across borders and eras

This event is not just an opportunity to hear from Chanel Cleeton; it also serves as a celebration of storytelling itself. As attendees gather to discuss the themes and insights presented in The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes, they will be part of a larger conversation about the significance of narratives in understanding our past and shaping our future.

The discussion will likely touch upon the universal threads that connect readers across cultures, as Cleeton’s work resonates with anyone who has grappled with questions of identity, belonging, and the impact of history on personal lives. This intersection of personal and political storytelling is what makes her writing so relevant and compelling.

In The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes, Cleeton constructs an intricate triptych of female protagonists whose lives are unexpectedly bound by a century-old manuscript.

In Boston at the dawn of the 20th century, Cuban schoolteacher Eva Fuentes travels to Harvard for a summer study program, where a moonlit encounter with a stranger inspires a novel of forbidden love and political peril. That novel, a handwritten original with only one known copy, becomes the connecting thread through the rest of the narrative.

By 1966, as Fidel Castro tightens control over Cuba, librarian Pilar Castillo finds herself charged with smuggling the manuscript out of Havana. With her husband imprisoned and neighbors fleeing the country, books become both a form of resistance and a path to danger.

Finally, in London in 2024, rare-antique dealer Margo Reynolds is hired to locate the manuscript. But her search reveals more than provenance—each page unearths the costs of exile, the weight of memory, and the risk of telling the truth.

An author rooted in Cuban history

Cleeton, a New York Times bestselling author, is known for her deeply researched novels rooted in the Cuban experience. Her previous works—Next Year in Havana, The Last Train to Key West, Our Last Days in Barcelona—have drawn acclaim for their blend of family saga, political history, and strong female leads.

For those passionate about literature and the diverse narratives that shape our world, this event with Chanel Cleeton will undoubtedly be a highlight of the literary calendar. Expect to leave inspired, with new insights into the profound impact of history and memory on our lives.

Born and raised in Florida, Cleeton grew up hearing stories of her own family’s departure from Cuba after the revolution. Her academic background reflects her passion for international affairs: a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from

As the event approaches, anticipation builds among fans of Cleeton’s work, who are eager to engage with her vision and insights. Whether attending in person or purchasing a signed copy online, readers will find themselves enriched by the experience of connecting with an author who so passionately delves into the themes of memory, diaspora, and the enduring power of literature.

Ultimately, The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, not just as a form of entertainment but as a vital means of understanding the complexities of the human condition. Readers are invited to reflect on their own stories as they engage with Cleeton’s characters, creating a shared experience that resonates on multiple levels.

Richmond American University London, a Master’s in Global Politics from the London School of Economics, and a J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law.

The event promises to be a memorable occasion for all literature enthusiasts, creating lasting connections among readers, and celebrating the legacy of stories that transcend time and place. Cleeton’s exploration of the human experience through her characters will surely ignite discussions that continue long after the event concludes.

Her novels often explore themes of identity, displacement, and the role women play in shaping and surviving history—all of which are deeply present in The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes.

Event details and RSVP

• What: An Evening with Chanel Cleeton – Author Talk & Book Signing
• When: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 – 7:00 p.m.
• Where: Books & Books, 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables
• Cost: Free admission; books available for purchase
• Registration: No ticket required; early arrival recommended. Books may also be pre-ordered online.

Visit Books & Books for additional details and purchasing options.

A timely novel of memory and resistance

Part literary mystery, part historical epic, The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes is both an ode to storytelling and an exploration of how stories survive—through war, dictatorship, migration, and love. Whether you’re drawn to intergenerational drama, Cuban history, or the enduring power of books, Cleeton’s new novel offers a reading experience that lingers long after the final page.

The event is expected to draw readers from across Miami-Dade County and beyond. Those unable to attend in person can still purchase signed copies through the Books & Books website.