New Adult/Adult Argentina: Standalones

Maria Gainza (Author), Thomas Bunstead (Translator)
Optic Nerve
By Argentine Author
Setting: Argentina
Genres: Contemporary Literary Fiction
Novel
Ages: 18+
Representation and Themes: Art and Identity, Connection Between Art and Experience, Exploration of Art History, Intimacy and Reflection
The narrator of "Optic Nerve," an Argentinian woman deeply devoted to art, intertwines her life story with the paintings and artists that resonate with her. Through her intimate and wandering narrative, we explore moments that have left a mark on her soul. From El Greco's dismay at Michelangelo's figures to the enigmatic tale of Rothko's unfinished murals, the book weaves together art history episodes with the narrator's experiences in Buenos Aires. Seductive and whimsical, "Optic Nerve" delves into the enigmatic bond between a piece of art and the individual who gazes upon it, encapsulating the profound connections that art forges with its beholder.

Maria Gainza (Author), Thomas Bunstead (Translator)
Portrait of an Unknown Lady
By Argentine Author
Setting: Argentina
Genres: Contemporary, Art, Mystery, Thriller
Novel
Ages: 18+
Representation and Themes: authenticity, deception, obsession, and the intricate relationship between art and identity, set against the vibrant backdrop of Buenos Aires' art scene.
From acclaimed author María Gainza, known for her debut Optic Nerve, comes a captivating tale set in Buenos Aires' art scene. Portrait of an Unknown Lady blurs the lines between authenticity and deception, making the pursuit of truth an art form.
The story revolves around a master forger who replicates the works of Mariette Lydis, capturing the art community's attention. Rumored to be a woman, her identity remains a mystery. What drives her, and how is she linked to the creatives at Hotel Melancólico?
Guiding us through this art world intrigue is an art critic and auction house employee, who becomes a detective in her quest to uncover the forger's identity. Using impressionistic techniques, she delves into the shadows of the art world.
This narrative is a meditation on authenticity in art, exploring the balance between experience and constructed narratives. Portrait of an Unknown Lady is a rich exploration of obsession, leaving readers questioning reality and artistry.
A curated collection of standalone fiction and nonfiction capturing the spirit of Argentina for New Adult and adult readers. Explore evocative narratives of passion, history, family, and identity—each one a singular literary voyage through South American landscapes and themes, one book at a time.

Pioneering in the Pampas
By British author
\Setting: Argentina
Genres: History, Adventure, Travel, Nonfiction
Nonfiction Travel Memoir
Ages: 18+
Representation and Themes: Exploration of frontier life, resilience in the face of adversity, cultural significance of Gauchos, the challenges of establishing a farm, and the intersection of nature and human endeavor in the Pampas.
Cattle-marking in South America, particularly the Argentine Republic, is a significant annual event where the daring Gaucho plays a central role. Richard Arthur Seymour embarked on a venture in 1865 to establish a cattle and sheep farm in the Pampas, chronicling his experiences in "Pioneering in the Pampas." Despite challenges like building their own infrastructure and facing raids from Indian neighbors, Seymour and his companion found solace in hunting and the unique lifestyle. The presence of Gauchos, skilled horsemen and a cultural symbol, added depth to their interactions. The narrative unfolds with tales of resilience, adapting to the rugged environment, and the realities of frontier life.

Yamile Saied Méndez
Twice A Quinceañera
By Argentine Author
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 18+
Representation: Latinx culture, traditional family dynamics, and themes of self-discovery.
Themes: Self-love, resilience, second chances, and the celebration of personal achievements.
Acclaimed author Yamile Saied Méndez, known for *Furia*, ventures into adult fiction with *Twice a Quinceañera*. The story follows Nadia Palacio, who, a month before her wedding and thirtieth birthday, confronts her unfaithful fiancé. Facing the challenge of informing her traditional Argentinian family, Nadia is inspired by a magazine article to celebrate a second quinceañera. She decides to host a treintañera, using her wedding venue and family gathering to celebrate her achievements. Complications arise when she discovers the venue manager is her college crush. *Twice a Quinceañera* is a warm, exuberant novel about self-love, resilience, and rekindling first love, perfect for those who believe in second chances.

Andrea Yaryura Clark
On A Night of a Thousand Stars
By Argentine Author
Setting: Argentina
Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance
Novel
Ages: 18+
Representation and Themes: Family secrets, identity, morality, relationships, the legacy of dictatorship, yearning for understanding, and redemption in the context of Argentina's dark history.
In the summer of 1998, Santiago Larrea's past resurfaces, prompting his daughter Paloma to delve into his mysterious history before Argentina's tumultuous military dictatorship. A journey to Buenos Aires unravels family secrets, intertwining with the haunting legacy of the disappeared. Through Paloma's quest, "On a Night of a Thousand Stars" delves into relationships, morality, and identity amidst Argentina's dark history, exploring the yearning for understanding and redemption in the face of tragedy.

Haley Cohen gilliland
A Flower Traveled in My Blood
Setting: Argentina
Genres: Women's History, Nonfiction
Nonfiction
Ages: 18+
Representation and Themes: Resilience, family bonds, memory, identity, justice, the impact of dictatorship, women's rights, and the quest for truth.
A Flower Traveled in My Blood tells the extraordinary true story of courageous grandmothers who embarked on a relentless quest to find their stolen grandchildren during Argentina's military dictatorship. Following the 1976 coup led by Jorge Rafael Videla, the nation was plunged into a dark era marked by the brutal campaign known as El Proceso, aimed at eradicating the political left. Among the junta's heinous acts was the systematic kidnapping of pregnant women, whose babies were given to military families after birth. The grandmothers, known as the Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo, united to reclaim their kin and demand justice. Despite the dangers, they confronted military officials, staged protests, and collaborated with scientists to develop genetic testing techniques. This gripping narrative blends meticulous research and original reporting, capturing the terror of a repressive regime while celebrating the grandmothers' resilience and love. Through their stories, profound truths about memory, identity, and family bonds are revealed, marking a powerful voice in narrative journalism.
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Argentina - New Adult/Adult Series
Epic NA and Adult Sagas & Series
An evolving collection of sagas and series from Argentina for mature and new adult readers. These volumes explore deep connections to Argentine land, history, and culture through multi-book narratives that let you follow rich characters across many chapters, staying with their evolving lives and legacies.