Cuidad Trujillo, 1961

Apart from Urania's chapters, the novel takes place in Cuidad Trujillo, capital of the Dominican Republic, on May 30th and the months immediately following it. Renamed from Santo Dominigo de Guzman by Trujillo himself, it was the home of about 300.000 people at the time. The the novel describes the city as full of life and energy, studded with both stately mansions and brothels. This vitality and spirit stands in stark contrast to the repression of Trujillo's regime.

The House of Agustin Cabral, 1996

Urania's chapters take place 35 years after Trujillo was killed and Urania fled the country and are mostly centered around the house where Urania grew up and her father still lives. Once a stately house befitting the President of the Senate, it is now decrepit and in disrepair, reflecting the state of Urania's father. It also serves as a catalyst for Urania's memories, many of which...