Reader Reviews
hectorvarela.com
Greetings! I am a black American female married to a Puerto Rican born and raised on the island (Carolina/Canovanas). He purchased this book for me for my 30th birthday. I had a strong desire to learn more about his culture after several trips to the island. I wholeheartedly enjoyed your novel and eagerly anticipate the release of the second book. It was interesting to read and to come across the "Spanglish" and to ask my husband "hey tell me about "una criada y morsillas (which I had the pleasure of tasting this past Christmas!) Please keep me updated as I will be one of the firsts to purchase the book! Bendecion! —
Gretchen McAllister Morales
I could not put the book down. It opened a floodgate of memories and awakened the Puerto Rican in me. It was truly wonderful and I recommend it to everyone, Boricua or not. I was born in PR and my father was in the military, a master sergeant. The family moved to Miami when I was 6 years old. I met, married and still love my wife of 35 years, Pamela. She bought the book for me and we plan to order more for X-Mas presents. Good work, great emotion and thank you for sharing your part of heaven.
Sincerely, Nick De Benedetto, Miami, Florida
A heart-rending book that pulls you in. All should read it, whether born in US or Puerto Rico. A solid 10 book that I could not put down. From a retired Vietnam veteran marine sergeant who appreciates everything you say, even though you were a squid once. Thanks Héctor Varela!
Sergeant Gil Hernández, USMC, retired. NYC
Thanks Héctor, for taking me back to Puerto Rico, your vivid and descriptive recollection of your childhood captivated me, I actually felt that I was right there - one of your "titeres" I could not put the book down, and I didn't want it to end. I can’t wait for the sequel. This is a must read for those whether born here on the US mainland or behind the Paramount Theater parking lot on bus/trolley stop #19,in Santurce's Ponce de Leon Avenue, Puerto Rico.
Joe Acevedo
Puerto Rican Arts, Culture and Events
Chicago, IL
Your book was so much fun to read, we read it twice. The way that you describe your memories took us right there with you. When I look back at my history, I am amazed sometimes that we were able to get here from there. You are especially fortunate.
Can’t wait for the sequel.
Love and success to you,
Craig & Sunshine Oxendine
West Virginia
Barnes & Noble.com
Customer Reviews
Number of reviews: 5 Average Rating: 
Edalmira Rivera-Hernandez, a non-traditional latina student, 01/28/2007
Kathryn Lewis Perea, A reviewer, 12/16/2006
Captivating to the end
What a captivating book, I did not want to put it down or for it to end. It left me wanting more. All of the moments that shaped the life of this inquistive boy were the reason why I enjoyed him so much as a friend when his family moved to my little town in Kansas when we were teenagers. I cannot wait for 'Innocence Slain' to be available. You have really found your true calling in life as a writer.
A reviewer, A reviewer, 12/08/2006
Adventure through childhood in 1940's Puerto Rico
Wow, what a story. Even though I finished it, I am not ready to put this book down yet. I must know what happens with Hector and Paula as they (and family) make their way to the US from their beloved Puerto Rico. Bring on the sequel. I can't wait! This book is so rich and deep, it makes me laugh and cry at the same time. Hurray for Mr. Varela!
A reviewer, A reviewer, 12/04/2006
A journey through childhood in 1940's Puerto Rico
I laughed and cried my way through this book. I can't wait for the sequel to see what happens with Hector, his family and of course, Paula as they leave their beloved Puerto Rico and start a new life in the US in the 1950's.
A reviewer, A reviewer, 11/14/2006
Captivating tale of Puerto Rican history speaks to all Americans
Told thru the eyes of a child. Truly reflects the post World War II era on the island of Puerto Rico and the influences of the USA on a people. The tri-racial heritage of the nation creates a rich story as the characters deal with their lives in a quickly changing world of adventure.
Customer Reviews
Jenny from Salem, OR 
Dive into this book head first and let the rich culture of Puerto Rico surround you. Follow young Hector as he experiences growing pains alongside his beloved island. This book takes the reader through personal, political, and social changes of both a young adolescent and a politically torn island. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of P.R. as you take this journey with Hector.
Michelle Woolard from Wilsonville, OR
Hooray for Mr.Varela! It is wonderful to find an authentic story where the characters have Shakespearean qualities. As a student of ethnic literature I am sure this book will find its way into universities everywhere. A must read for all those that pursue intelligent stories.
Customer Reviews
A wonderful book!, January 3, 2007
Reviewer: Nancy E. Calonge "iShop" (Nashville)
It's got it all, sights, sounds and aromas. One is caught up with the difficult times of a fascinating family. He's got to write a follow-up. I'm sitting on the edge of my seat.
An adolescent's journey in 1940-50's Puerto Rico, January 15, 2007
What a great story. This is the kind of book that you should read slowly, as you don't want this journey with Hector and Paula to end. I will never forget these characters. I laughed and cried often simultaneously, through this book. My thanks to Mr. Varela for sharing, so eloquently, his childhood journey...I can't wait for the sequel.
Héctor Varela’s first novel Affinity for Trouble is a vivid account of what life was like in the streets of Santurce to suburbia. He includes several characters that anyone can recognize as their own family member. His story incites mixed emotions such as laughter during the good times and tears through the bad. The novel is an easy read, but is only recommended for adults!
Héctor Varela was born and raised in Puerto Rico. He moved to the states at the age of 11. He did return to Puerto Rico later in his life but is currently living in Miami-Dade County in Florida with his wife Carmen Lourdes.
Front Cover Review
Hector Varela’s young life was filled with poverty, crime and violence. Nourished by the familiarity of his beloved Los Pinos neighborhood and the love of an extended family he not only avoids serious trouble, but thrives. His tough exterior is breeched when, at age 9, he is forced to leave Los Pinos for the new “urbanization” neighborhood of Puerto Rico. Hector’s life deteriorates when his papi Guelo goes to war and his little brother, Vitin, is diagnosed with the dreaded polio. His older, negra sister, Paula, becomes his rock. The reader will laugh and cry as Hector lays bare his soul. Affinity for Trouble is a poignant story told through the eyes of a struggling child trying to find his place in life. It is a book every resident of this melting pot called America should read.
Dr. Patricia Wade, Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Miami Medical School (retired)
Editor, Redland Country News
Chairwoman, Miami-Dade County Zoning Appeals Board 14, elected 2 consecutive 4 yr terms
(305) 238-8908
Back Cover Review
A captivating read that kept me turning the pages. Loved the perspective of a young boy in innocence and the ability of the author to (develop) the story and the boy in its narrative. The military authenticity and the spirit of the Puerto Rican warriors is wholly captured. A spiritual experience!
Denny Deetz
President Dermec Laboratories
CMSGT ORNG (re)
Copyright © 2006 Hector Varela. All Rights Reserved.