Praise
A worldly enthusiasm courses through the novel . . . Father Sánchez proves to be a thoughtful interlocutor . . . [Father Cordóba] is open and accessible. He teaches Italian neorealism and starts film clubs, imparting his love for Maria Callas and Pier Paolo Pasolini.
— Miguel Salazar, New York Times Book Review
A mesmerizing chronicle of Luis Cordóba, an opera-loving priest and film critic . . . Abad offers a remarkable depiction of the harmony sustained in the priests' secular interests and spiritual devotion . . . An immersive and affecting tale.
— Publishers Weekly, starred review
The novel’s triumph lies in how it separates the individuals from the institution of the Church, modeling a nuanced narrative that captures the latter’s virtues as vividly as its failures . . . Along with its religious and political preoccupations, it is also a novel about art. Córdoba is as devoted to film and music as he is to God. In fact, the two are inseparable in his eyes. For Córdoba, “Art and beauty are a war declared against brutality and indifference, and therefore a reflection of love, which is the clearest and most palpable manifestation of the existence of God."
— Krista Timeus Cerezo, Words Without Borders
A beguiling, generous book . . . a hearty celebration of a life defined by infectious verve and curiosity.
— Kevin Canfield, World Literature Today
Our reviewer of this novel inspired by a Colombian priest and film critic told me they now have to read everything by the author. I’ve recently cracked it—Archipelago’s books are always such beautiful and inviting objects—and can already tell there’s no turning back.
— David Varno, Publishers Weekly's literary fiction reviews editor
Aside from My Heart, All is Well tells the story of characters who speak to us about what truly matters. Their naturalness and generosity stay with us. We continue to speak to them.
— Alonso Cueto, Latin American Literature Today
Aside From My Heart, All is Well is a gently meandering novel guided by warmth and subtle humour . . . [Abad] creates . . . a rich environment that is beautifully reflected in Anne McLean’s warm English translation.
— Joseph Schreiber, Rough Ghosts