Like Happiness BY Ursula Villarreal-Moura

"In "Like Happiness," a poignant debut by an acclaimed author, Tatum Vega's carefully constructed life in Chile is upended when a persistent reporter delves into her past relationship with the renowned writer M. Domnguez. Set in 2015, Tatum's tranquil existence with her partner, Vera, is shadowed by memories of her tumultuous history with Domnguez during her time in New York City.

As Tatum navigates the reporter's probing questions, she is compelled to confront the complexities of her relationship with Domnguez. Through a narrative that alternates between present-day events and a heartfelt letter addressed to Domnguez, Tatum gradually unravels the layers of their connection and the profound impact it continues to have on her life.

"Like Happiness" delves deeply into themes of gender dynamics, power struggles, and the often ambiguous boundaries within intimate relationships. As Tatum revisits her past, long-buried emotions and unresolved questions resurface, challenging her perceptions of love, identity, and personal agency.

The novel offers a poignant exploration of memory, trauma, and the quest for truth amid the allure of fame and celebrity. With lyrical prose and intricate character development, the author skillfully navigates the complexities of Latinx identity and the intersections of privilege and power.

As Tatum grapples with her own narrative and confronts the realities of her past, readers are invited into a compelling journey of self-discovery and redemption. "Like Happiness" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exploration of love, loss, and the pursuit of personal liberation, weaving together themes of forgiveness and acceptance in a narrative that lingers long after the final page.