There are few literary figures as well-known as Don Juan. His
character has become synonymous with seduction, womanizing and hedonism. While
his story has been retold in stories, plays and operas for more than two
hundred years, Douglas Abrams has added to the legend by imaging a character
that is part spy, part seducer and part honey trap.
The Lost Diary follows Don Juan’s last great seduction, the pursuit
of the unattainable Dona Ana. As the story unfolds, we are introduced not only
to Don Juan’s past as an orphan, thief, spy, and libertine noble. We get an
insight into the intrigue and manipulations of the Spanish court that resembled
many of the honey trap operations of the Cold War. These historical parallels
add a unique pleasure to the story, especially for anyone who is a fan of spy
fiction.
The Lost Diary also has elements of erotic romance and hedonistic
philosophy. In creating empathy for the title character, Abrams illuminates a sensuality
and a secular wisdom that liberates the reader as well as Don Juan. I am not a
fan of historical fiction, but I am inspired by Don Juan as a concept and I
recommend this version of the story to anyone who enjoys stories of sex, lies
and spies.
Have fun.
Gamal
Gamal
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