Foi Sem Querer Que Te Quis (Raul Minh’alma)

EN “Foi Sem Querer Que Te Quis” was the first book I read by the Portuguese author Raul Minh'alma, released in November 2018 by the Manuscrito publisher. I admit that I was influenced by some positive opinions that I was reading online and decided to give the writer and his book a chance. The truth is this author managed to make this book a bestseller in Portugal and keep this record with his following books.

This story tells us about Beatriz, a therapist in a nursing home who is tired of living the love disappointments that life has brought her. And that's why Mr. Nicolau decided to help her find happiness, making a promise to give her a recipe for it, stored in an envelope, which Beatriz would only read after fulfilling her promise to help Nicolau's grandson, Bernardo, become a better person, less rude and angry with his past. The task could have been easy if Bernardo collaborated, which does not happen initially, creating a relationship of rivalry between them. However, like all the twists and turns that life likes to take, fate will prank them, and their relationship will have different contours, which will cause the two to question their feelings.

I admit that I really liked the book, although I didn't think it was going to be my style because it contained some philosophical reflections related to love. However, I liked the writer's approach to anxiety. I did not feel that the author has diminished Beatriz's anxiety problem and I did not feel that the character was belittled for suffering from it, as we sometimes see it happen. And the character of Mr. Nicolau touched my heart. It was the character that captivated me the most and if you read the book, you will understand why.

I advise the book for those who like novels, and the chapters are really short, but I have to point out that the story is a bit strong and that it can sadness a little the spirit of those who read it.

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