When We Left Cuba

Beatriz Perez is the second-eldest daughter of Emilio and Mrs. Perez. She is the protagonist and narrator of the novel. At the time the main storyline begins, she is 22.

Beatriz is known for being beautiful but slightly scandalous. Her family thinks of her as reckless and impulsive, qualities that led her to become involved in her twin brother Alejandro’s revolutionary activities while the family still lived in Cuba. Beatriz likes to flout convention and act on her desires, preferences exhibited even as a child, when she stole a kiss from Eduardo. As an adult, Beatriz is drawn to Eduardo because they share many personality traits as well as a longing for the life in Cuba that is lost to them.

After leaving Cuba, Beatriz feels restless and unmoored. Her wishes for her own life run counter to the gendered expectations for her future imposed upon her. Working as a spy, even if it means dressing up and using her beauty and allure, makes Beatriz feel powerful. She also enjoys the power of her sexual attraction to Nick Preston. While she knows from the beginning that they don’t have a future together, she chooses to take pleasure in the present and deal with the consequences when they arise.