Evelyn Skye's One Year Ago in Spain is a poignant exploration of love, memory, and the resilience of the human spirit. This novel, which follows the critically acclaimed The Hundred Loves of Juliet, delves into the complexities of relationships and the lengths one might go to preserve them. Skye crafts a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, inviting readers to ponder the nature of love and the power of second chances.

The story centers around Claire Walker, a woman whose life is meticulously organized, from her high-powered career in a Manhattan law firm to her personal aspirations. Claire's world is turned upside down when she meets Matías de León, a Spanish artist whose free-spirited nature is the antithesis of her structured existence. Their relationship is a whirlwind of passion and discovery, a testament to the adage that opposites attract. However, as the blurb suggests, Claire begins to question the sustainability of their relationship due to their stark differences.

Skye's portrayal of Claire is both relatable and compelling. She is a character who embodies the modern struggle of balancing career ambitions with personal fulfillment. Claire's internal conflict about her relationship with Matías is a reflection of a broader theme: the fear of vulnerability and the unknown. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to embrace the chaos that love often brings.

Matías, on the other hand, is a character who exudes warmth and spontaneity. His artistic nature and zest for life are infectious, making him an ideal foil to Claire's methodical approach. Through Matías, Skye explores the idea that love is not about finding someone who is exactly like you, but rather someone who complements and challenges you. The chemistry between Claire and Matías is palpable, and their interactions are filled with a genuine sense of affection and tension.

The novel takes a dramatic turn when Matías is involved in a tragic accident, leaving him in a coma in a Madrid hospital. This plot twist serves as a catalyst for the story's central conflict: Claire's quest to reconnect with Matías's soul, which has become detached from his body. This supernatural element adds a layer of intrigue and urgency to the narrative, as Claire must navigate the unfamiliar terrain of the spiritual realm to save the man she loves.

Skye's use of magical realism is both subtle and effective, allowing readers to suspend disbelief and engage with the story's emotional core. The concept of wooing a lover's soul back into their body is a metaphor for the effort required to maintain and rekindle love. It raises questions about identity and memory, and whether love can transcend physical and temporal boundaries.

As Claire interacts with Matías's soul, she faces the daunting task of making him fall in love with her all over again. This aspect of the story is reminiscent of other romantic tales where love must be rekindled against all odds, such as Nicholas Sparks' The Notebook or Audrey Niffenegger's The Time Traveler's Wife. However, Skye's narrative stands out due to its unique blend of romance and the supernatural, creating a fresh take on the theme of love's enduring power.

The novel's setting in Spain adds a rich cultural backdrop to the story. Skye's descriptions of Madrid and its vibrant atmosphere enhance the narrative, providing a vivid contrast to Claire's structured life in New York. The setting becomes a character in its own right, reflecting the themes of passion and unpredictability that permeate the novel.

One of the most striking aspects of One Year Ago in Spain is its exploration of memory and identity. Matías's soul, devoid of memories of his time with Claire, represents the fragility of human connections and the importance of shared experiences. Claire's determination to remind Matías of their love is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the belief that love can overcome even the most insurmountable obstacles.

In conclusion, Evelyn Skye's One Year Ago in Spain is a beautifully crafted novel that weaves together themes of love, memory, and identity with a touch of magical realism. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the narrative is both engaging and thought-provoking. Skye's ability to blend romance with the supernatural creates a unique and compelling story that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page. For those who enjoy stories that challenge the boundaries of love and explore the depths of human emotion, this novel is a must-read.