Caray, Caray!

So sorry for the lateness. I had a sick kid last night and didn't get the recap to Urban until late last night. She had to leave early so I just now realized I had to put it up. I think there is a spot missing but I didn't get to watch the second half since my kid was sick.
 

Good Morning Ms Gloria and Ms Urban:

What a wonderful, marvelous recap. I really love both your different styles. And Gloria, I hope you child is feeling better soon.

Well, Well, Maria got her some comeuppance. It's about time! I have been waiting for Ale to put her in her place. So glad he did. I couldn't stand her trying to seduce him in the living room of all places and trying to get him drunk!

Dimwit and Addy, what a duo of jerks they are. It's too bad that Dimwit saw JL. Now he has something to hang over Monse's head. I can't stand it. He has gotten away with far too much already. I want someone to put him in his place, like the carcel. He should have been there a long time ago.

Poor Nadia! Pedro is horrid, just horrid. The man has no feelings whatsoever. He could at least be nice to her. He is as cold as a fish. I wonder if Nadia is a virgin. When she told Pedro she needed him, ya know, I didn't think she was. The poor woman is starving for affection and love. I like that Victor is around her and doing these little things for her, but it will cost them a lot if Pedro finds out what is going on.

Quick save on JL's part I must say. I didn't think he'd tell the truth about he and Monse. Those avances are so sly! I noticed that JL got really close to Monse when he entered Ale's office and she kind of brushed him aside. Very telling. I wonder how JL thinks that Monse will run away with him. I think if she really wanted to run away with him, she would have already. Now Dimwit is at the hacienda and up to no good.

The Perv is one pithed off guy and such a Perv! As if JL would feel threatened by him. The Perv is an idiot. Ale would never give him the capataz's job. Ale already knows, or suspects that Juvie has been ripping off the hacienda for years.

The avances showed Ale and Monse kissing in front of Maria and JL. I hope they do show that. Then maybe JL and Maria will get a clue.
 

Thank you for getting the recap up with illness in the household on top of the holidays. It was excellent!

I liked:

Ale finally putting Maria in her place.

Gloria's use of "Pervertino.


I didn't like:

Ale kissing Maria. Being drunk is no excuse.

Ale finishing JL's "story" for him because JL was on the verge of telling him the truth. NB to Ale: if someone is talking: let them finish uninterrupted!

Auntie Carlota telling Montse to make up with her brother after she knows what a scumbag he is and his role in the whole marriage mess. When does the family ever think of Montse first and not that slug Dimitri?

Nadia being with Victor. Even if he cannot stand her, Pedro is still her husband and a real sick loose cannon. She should know better and get a divorce first. Who knows what Pedro is capable of if his public image were to be affected?

A very happy and healthy 2014 to all of you!

Jarifa
 

My oldest was sick last night and for once really wanted me to lay down with her and cuddle. She's 12 and lately she thinks she's too old for cuddles.

I was confliced with the whole Victor/Nadia relationship. On one hand, I want her to find happiness, but then on the other she is married. One man at a time sister.

I still think JL should just fess up and admit the truth. I know he was trying yesteday, but come on! Out with it.
 

BTW, Happy New Year everyone! Please be safe.
 

Double the pleasure! UA and Gloria this recap was tremendous!

Though I enjoyed the take-down of Maria by both Ale and Monse, the fact that Ale gave into that kiss (drunk or not) still gives Maria ideas. Hopefully, if the previews are true, if she sees hubby and wife making nice, she'll realize the booze was doing the talking and there isn't an emotion by Ale. Also amazes me she is so snippy and grabby with him, and seems to think that's attractive?
Her character is just unenjoyable to watch ( if there's such a word). A good villainess or "bad girl" is fun to watch if written or played right. Maria is just a shrew. Times like this, I miss Altair.

As for JL - is it me or is he increasingly becoming less attractive? The five o'clock doesn't really work well on him either.

As for Dimwit, I admit I thought him possibly redeemable, but right now, he can get run over by the nearest tractor. Ale wants to get rid of him too, buy him a one-way ticket to Brazil.

Carlotta needs to get a life. I apologize to those who like the character, but she just grates on my last nerve in every scene she is in. What a busy-body.

How the heck did Nadia and Pedro hook up? Did she have money or background to aid in his political career? Trophy wife? poor thing. This won't go pretty for awhile for either her or Victor I fear. I like then both so much, hopefully nothing happens seriously to either.

Champagne toast to the patio for a Happy New Year!!
 

Thank you Gloria and Urban! Many chores this morning, will be back later. Really appreciate you guys putting out these stellar and detailed recaps of these double episodes!

Had to laugh at JL's useless confrontation. If he really had avocados he should have started with "My name is Jose Luis. ." (suddenly I heard that actor's voice who used to say "My name Jose Jimenez"--what show was that?) Anyway the big dummy ended up winning Ale's undying friendship instead of Montse's undying love and her flight away with him. BIG DUMMY!!

Other impressions: What total, unapologetic scumballs Dimmy and Dopey are! What a pig Juvie continues to be and how steadily he makes inroads into his niece's personal space. How much is too much for this girl?

And Ale kissing Maria back! What! Not that I wanted anything else to happen but that scene seemed truncated and awkwardly juxtaposed against the next one at the breakfast table?!

Finally, speaking of how much is too much? What does Pedro have to do to show Nadia that this "marriage" is dead on arrival? I don't know the laws of the church but can't she get an annulment already? If she still loves him now, she is as sick as he is! Look forward to y'alls take on these busy, talkative two episodes. Thanks again Gloria and Urban!

Lila
 

Gloria and Urban, the perfect compliment. What a duo! Wise, witty and wonderful.

Gloria: Love your style - I could read your recaps all day. A special thank you for doing this while taking care of your sick daughter. I hope she is better! "Um, dude. You're on the phone talking. It's not like he can “see” them. Obviously you need to upgrade your phone)", "Maria suggests that he get drunk tonight so that she can have her evil way with him. (Well not really, but I’m sure she's thinking it)" and "He goes to her with extended arms that I’m sure stink to high heaven" were among my favorites.

UA, I always feel transported back in time reading your recaps. Your language is inspirational and a treat. "her eyes no longer saw him the same way", "Pervertino complained to Lord Alejandro about Mr Olivares' unorthodox – and unauthorized – absence" and "as anguished as though she had entered Hell itself, hearing echoes down its corridors as she writhed in emotional agony on her bed" were powerful and among my favorites.

I really like Angelica and looking forward to what transpires. She is feisty and insightful (she pegged Dimwit right off the bat, didn't she)?? Poor Josie, if only she realized she is so much better off without Dimwit! I thought he might be changing but tonight's episode sadly proved he is still nowhere on the road to redemption.

Madelaine, I am glad Ale finally put Maria in her place. But, it's far too little too late. That regrettable and improper behavior (kissing Maria) just adds fuel to the fire. He may well never be able to atone for his actions and behavior toward Monse, he can ill afford additional costly mistakes.

JL should have interrupted Ale during his tirade and confessed on the spot. Ale tied up the lie with a beautiful bow but JL needed to step up and open Pandora's box and tell the truth. He does not deserve Monse (although I don't think Ale does either)..

Jarifa, I am afraid for Nadia as Pedro is indeed a monster. He has cruelly rejected her in every possible way. She is susceptible and vulnerable and Victor's timing could not be better (or worse). In a perfect world, she should leave Pedro before entering into a relationship with Victor, certainly for safety's sake. But his rejection is searing and likely to make her run rather than walk into Victor's arms.

Monse has a feeling Rosario is Ale's mother, wonder when Rosario will admit the truth.

This is really getting good!

Thank you again Gloria and Urban.

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy New Year!

Diana
 

Wow. You two put a ton of work in on this. Very ,very detailed. And a lot happened. Just outstanding.

Gloria, I am so sorry you were dealing with the illness of a child. But so glad that she wanted you to snuggle with her. Those moments are fleeting once they get to this age (and beyond). My oldest had no need of me at all for years....until she had her own baby. Then suddenly I was needed again. And it felt great.

Boy the stakes are raised now. Lots of tension. I got nervous just reading your two accounts.And I haven't seen it yet. So many hidden and forbidden romances. Lord have mercy!


"Medina Residence: Lady Nadia looked in the mirror and saw her own apprehension."

Nice turn of phrase, UA.

Your style and Gloria's make a great contrast and I appreciate both of them...especially at this very busy time of year, when colds, flu and endless parties are rampant. It's a wonder any of us survive Christmas...without having double recaps to boot. Bless you both.
 

Happy New Year! Thank you Urban and Gloria (with a sick child, too), for getting this up for us.

Anon- Yes. Nadia does come from money and a family with a name. She's pretty, young, sweet, and easy to (man)handle. She's a perfect trophy wife. I'm still trying to figure out how Pedro managed to act like her cared for her, long enough to convince her to marry him! I think she's a virgin, and that's why the temptation of Victor is affecting her so much. The girl's ready to errupt. How in the world does Pedro expect her to live like a nun. That's fine for him, since he's got issues (whatever they are). But did he really expect that the woman he'd marry could go on forever with no sex, hugs, kisses, or even touching?

I'm mad at Victor though for pushing this. Where does he think this will lead? And sending a married woman such a HUGE showy gift, TWICE! Good grief.

Blackmailers really can be so stupid. How does Dim think that Monse can get money out of Ale, without it looking suspicious?
 

Gloria: Sorry your poor daughter had to be under the weather during the holidays. Makes it all the worse for them. But enjoy the cuddles when you can!! The patio is 100% in agreement that we could do without a recap if that is asked of you.

Daisynjay
 

Thanks Vivi, Google ate my signature again when I posted. That was my as Anon asking about Nadia.

Daisynjay
 

Diana:

I agree with you about Ale, sigh! He just went along with that Maria kiss, no shoving her off, no get away from me, he just went with it. That's what bothers me so much, plus the fact that when Dimwit and his cohort Addy just showed up at the hacienda out of the blue, if I had been Ale, I would have thrown both of them out on their tushies. Then Dimwit wouldn't have seen JL. Then he couldn't be blackmailing Monse for money.

I am sympathizing with poor Nadia. She is really trying hard to resist Victor, but since the poor woman never had any affection from her husband, she is very conflicted and Urban caught that reflection perfectly. I really think Nadia will try to fight this attraction she feels for Victor, but I wonder how long she will continue to fight it. I don't think Victor is playing around here either. I think he has fallen very hard for her. But I too worry for the both of them being caught by Pedro. He is an evil man.

I too like Angie, she has such a verve for living. I like her outspokenness with her feelings for JL. I am liking Lottie, for her frank speaking, Esme too for hers, and Angie. I wish one of them would rub off on Monse and Nadia. I am not counting Maria and her evil mis planes here.

And Rosario poor thing being constantly threatened by Maria, having to guard Monse's secrets and her own biggest secret is she is Ale's Mama. I am just hoping when that truth comes out, Ale doesn't kick her to the curb.

These weaker women, Monse, Nadia and Rosario, need a catalyst to prod them somehow into doing something to gain the upper hand. I think out of all the stronger women, Esme and Angie could prod one or both along.

Gloria:

I agree with you that JL lost his avocadoes a long time ago. Even though Ale interrupted him, he should have continued and told him the truth anyways. I think he just chickened out again. I think he knows deep down that Monse doesn't feel the same way she used to. When he kissed her, he should have gotten a clue. She isn't kissing him the way she used to and also when she said she would leave with him, I think it's more of saving him than running away with him. I do think she has fallen for Ale without realizing it.
 

Wow, two compelling and powerful recaps! Gloria and Urban, you two make a terrific tag team and I so appreciate the time and care you put into your recaps. Thank you! The recapping team for this telenovela is amazing.

My pal Diana called out the exact two quotes from each of the recaps that I was going to note. For Gloria it was the snarkalicious "Um, dude...Obviously you need to upgrade your phone" and for UA it was the poetic "as anguished as though she had entered Hell itself, hearing echoes down its corridors as she writhed in emotional agony on her bed". Yowza to both!

Gloria, I hope your daughter feels better soon. Thank you for doing the recap while caring for your sick child.

Feliz año nuevo a todos!
 

Just read comments. Gloria, I hope your daughter is feeling better and I hope you both enjoyed the cuddling!

Again I ask, my friends, does the Catholic Church allow annulments for non-fulfillment of conjugal duties? Even if divorce is really bad in Catholicism but can't she get a divorce based on Pedro's withholding of affection and his outright hostility and contempt for her? Thanks!

Lila
 

Ay ay ay! A recap on New Year's Eve with a sick child at home -- above and beyond, Gloria!

Thank you so much to you and to Urban for these beautifully written and detailed accounts. It is a special treat for us to bounce from one writing style to the next.

Just what the hacienda needed -- a little more malice (personified by Dim and Dimmer). And meanwhile poor Josefina languishes in Aguazul, trusting that her true love will keep faith with her. Sigh.

Pedro's scene with Nadia was one of the cruelest I can recall in a telenovela. You captured it beautifully, Urban.

Gloria, if I had to pick my favorite part of your recap, it would be your description of María's latest attempt to seduce Alejandro:

"Don't you feel the same way? Of course replies a drunk Ale. I like you for reals says Maria and goes in for a kiss and he kisses her back."

That's the first time she has gotten so far. I hope it is not a herald of things to come. As Daisy says, María is just not a fun villain to watch (unless you are looking through Carlos's rose-colored glasses).

WIshing you all a healthy, happy new year!

May our pots here continue to boil deliciously!
 

Sylvia, we always seem to enjoy the same quotes, don't we? :)

Lila, I believe the Catholic church does grant annulments if the marriage is not consummated.

Pedro is an abuser and hopefully Nadia will be able to obtain a divorce unless he fights her using his position of power to impede the process. It is my understanding that the Church is becoming more lenient in granting annulments but (I say ruefully as a Catholic), those who are divorced are somewhat ostracized.

So, I feel Nadia is entitled to an annulment from both the church and state. Let's see what happens.

Diana
 

Thanks, Diana, her pain was palpable as Urban so eloquently expressed it: she is in emotional, mental and physiological anguish! I want a humongous anvil with burning spikes for Pedro!

Lila
 

Great recap of a complicated episode.

I really think Pedro's "problem" is far more involved than we have been lead to believe. Did you notice how short the bed in their bedroom was? Nadia's legs hung off the front of the bed while her head touched the headboard.

I really don't get Victor. He must have some kind of death wish with Pedro just waiting on the sidelines for the opportunity to fulfill it. For a savvy businessman he is naïve and not so smart when it comes to Nadia who is so totally emotionally damaged.

Once again the writers lead us on. JS starts his story, Ale interrupts him by drawing an incorrect conclusion from a faulty set of facts and bumbles onward while JL keeps his mouth shut - just when we think we are looking at a mini-resolution.
 

Thanks Gloria and UA for the double-barreled recap. Very different styles but very satisfying results from the both of you.

As for María, I'm not blind and deaf... I realize that she has imperfections and flaws (though certainly not as far as physical beauty is concerned). She was the pretty little peasant girl who grew up with the pretty little peasant boy and just naturally always assumed that he was intended for her. He is now rich and felt justified in buying a trophy wife. So why has he not explained this to María? She's not blind nor deaf either and the message she keeps getting from both Alejandro and Montserrat is that his heart is still in play.

As for that matter, JL still has manifest reason to believe that Montserrat still prefers him over Alejandro. Alejandro and Montserrat have the ultimate say so, but neither are saying so.

I think it will be fun and satisfying meanwhile to watch María toy with and manipulate Alfonso. I hope that he and Dimitrio find a way to stick around the ranch awhile. I also think it'd be a lot of fun if Graciela came to visit... does she already know María?

Carlos

 

Whoa...no way could Graciela come to visit! Somebody would surely "out" her, no? But I love how skillfully you plead "poor little Maria's" case. If you hadn't become a doctor, you would have made a fabulous defense attorney, Carlos.

Now go Bears! I'm a-wantin' to see a big Baylor win here.
 

Thanks for those good wishes, Judy. I don't mind telling you that this game has me worried. 17 point favorites against University of Central Florida... what could possibly go wrong?

Carlos
 

I think Ale and Nadia would have made a much more compatible pair than Ale and Money. Too bad Nadia was in a hurry to marry the first guy who came along. But then we wouldn't have all this drama.

My skin was really crawling when Pervy and Maria were sitting on the bed together. I was seriously worried they get even grosser in an incest kind of way, in which case I'm sure I would have lost my dinner. How is it that mean suspicious Maria has absolutely no creep alarm?

So disgusted with Ale for letting Maria get him drunk and for kissing her. Grow up, Alejandro.

I wish poor Josefina had a friend to help her out. Maybe Esme could fill that role? They need to meet somehow! Those two were so funny in Gancho.

Muchas thanks for the really excellent recaps!
 

First of all, thanks to Gloria for posting my part. If this ever happens again I will not remove the extra spacing, which caused my part to look like a wall of text.

And, Gloria, I hope your daughter feels better quickly.

Carlos, Graciela and Maria have met. I covered that in the opening episode although I have no idea how long they know each other. We don't know how long the affair between her and Don Benjamin lasted or when it started or ended. The only thing I am sure of is that there is no chance that Don Benjamin is the sperm donor of Monserrat or Graciela would not have tried to get his money this way. She would have insisted on a DNA test to prove that Monserrat is his offspring to challenge the will and Alejandro being who he is would probably have given up half the inheritance without a fight.

But even then I doubt he would ever have looked at Maria the way she wants him to.

She will not be put off no matter what he says to her. The only thing he can do to stop her is to send her away to work with Victor.

As for Dimwit, he can go to hell. He clearly doesn't give a flying damn about his own sister and he is in no way worthy of redemption.

Pedro won't be redeemable either. I'm guessing that his illegal activities involve a lot of death and violence. Nadia is in danger no matter how she behaves around him.

Yes, she can get an annulment, but he will probably threaten her life if he even thinks she's enquiring about that.
 

UA. I think you are right about Pedro. Nadia could pay with her "life" one way or another if she stays or tries to leave. Sort of like a life sentence for one bad decision: marrying him.

Jarifa
 

I think Nadia's only hope would be to somehow trick or manipulate Pedro into thinking a divorce/annulment is his idea. Maybe fake a disfiguring accident so he won't see her as a suitable poster wife anymore?
 

Urban, I just read your post and didn't even notice yours had no spacing. So so sorry. I was crazy busy at work and hurried to put it up. I just fixed it. My apologizes to everyone for not checking before posting.

 

Urban and Gloria, I remember when I was posting recaps for La Tempestad that sometimes the spacing in my post would be fine, and sometimes it would squish together. It just didn't seem consistent which was very annoying when I had to go back and respace my recap after posting. Bah!

I agree with Julia; the only way Nadia will be able to get away from Pedro is by trickery. Or death, preferably his. Since Loreto is following her everywhere I'm sure he will see her with Victor and Pedro will be very pithed off. I had to laugh, though, that Loreto is following her in the official car, like she wouldn't notice.
 

Only now did I have time to read your excellent double recap. Thanks, Gloria, for completing yours under adverse conditions. Hope your daughter is feeling better.
Thanks, Urban, for your lovely language. I always enjoy the archaic tone you give us.

I believe Sir Walter Scott can chime in regarding this episode:
"Oh what a tangled web we weave, When first we practise to deceive!" I thought we might get a few things settled, but everything just gets messier and messier. Sr. Pedro is a stone cold SOB. Too bad we didn't see how he manipulated Nadia into marriage.

Juvie is killing me with his nasty self and his caressing of Maria. I loved him deeply and truly in Pasion and he makes me just sick here. Good portrayal of a bad character.

Also excellent in her portrayal--Rosario frightened for herself, yet determined to help her son and Montse.

Adolfo is such an oily little creep, but he does have pretty eyes.
 

Thank you UA and Gloria for an awesome recap!

La Paloma that quote went through my head again and again last night. What a tangle dew eb of lies and receipt on everyone's part. Layer on layer. I'm getting stressed again.

And Julia, I've been secretly hoping for Esmeralda to befriend Fina and help her with a makeover!

Interesting that while Ale discouraged Victor from pursuing a married woman, it certainly wasn't off the table. Yet just recently when Vic told Ale that JL was supposed to be a stand up guy, Ale freaked out and said "he's going after someone's wife!" Hypocrisy is another thing Ale and Monsy share.

Thanks again UA and Gloria!

Happy New Year All!


 

And that was "tangled web"! Darn auto-correct!
 

The difference between those situations is that Pedro is a dangerous man. He's a cold-blooded criminal who is likely to kill at the slightest pretext. Alejandro has a bad temper but the first real evidence that Monserrat loves him will make a pussycat out of him.

However, I see the point here.

I want the backstory on how she ended up married to him.
 

I do too, Urban. It seems incredible that she ever would have agreed to marriage to someone who treated her like that while they were going out. And there's nothing to indicate that it was an "arranged marriage". Are the parents even around?
 

Gloria and Urban - Terrific double-teaming. Muchisimas gracias. Gloria, hope your daughter is feeling better this new year day.

Nadia says she loves Pedro, but that's not even remotely realistic. He is rude, obnoxious, and uncaring to her at ever turn, in private and in public. What's to love? She should resent him and want out, regardless of Victor.

Montse needs someone she can confide to and give her a pep talk cause she's too sharp to let Dim push her around like this. Hey, where's the Padre?

JL has the truth on who set him up and a chance to see Ale is a good guy. Time for him to stand up. He seemed to feel pithed with himself about his lack of avocados in the meeting with Ale. But then he's right back to "let's run away." Too much has happened -- both Montse and JL have gotten to know Ale -- to just ditch without a word now.
 

JudyB:

Nadia and Addy's parents are around, we just haven't seen them. They are in Europe on a vacation. They did cut Addy off though, when they found out he was partaying instead of going to school. I don't believe they know what is going on with Nadia and Pedro, but they do have scads of money. I bet Pedro married Nadia for the lana.

Happy New Year Everyone!
 

Niece in MD: ITA that too much has happened to disappear without a word now, I thought it was shocking that Montserrat agreed to run away with JL again. Especially with her aunt and blackmailing brother at the hacienda, it truly seems like the cowards way out. And I can't believe that her feelings are still as strong for JL. Haven't we seen her doubting him more and more and, at the same time, being drawn to Ale? Yet she's back to square one, wanting to ride off into the sunset with JL . I thought she'd progressed further than that....


 

And what happened to Montsys promise to Ale that she wouldn't run away again? Or her telling JL she would NEVER leave with him.
 

Neice:

Either Nadia is toeing the party line (ya know she loves Pedro) or she is trying to convince herself she does, or she is trying to keep Victor at arms length. I think she is trying to convince herself she loves Pedro, even though he is basically cruel to her. I too wonder why in the world she married Pedro. I really think he was not this way with her before they married.

Katy:

About Monse wanting to run away with JL again. Not a spoiler, but I don't think she ever will. I think this time it was to try and get JL out of harm's way, ya know away from Dimwit and Ale, but she still didn't go. I really think she wants him to go and never come back and she also wants to rectify the wrong done to him by her scheming Mama and her Dimwit bro. I don't know how she will be able to do that, but she wants to do something. I really think she is feeling more for Ale than she realizes. Since he treats her half way decently now, she is falling for him and she sees he has the avocadoes that JL doesn't have.
 

I keep forgetting that Adolfo is Nadia's brother. Again, we have a comparative example of a decent young woman with a useless brother.

However, I doubt that Nadia has any money of her own at this point.

I have no doubt that Pedro married her for what she will ultimately inherit. During the original period of this story he would control it. I wonder whether we will ultimately meet her parents.

Here's food for thought: Pedro must have put on a hell of a front in order to hoodwink his future in-laws. If they are capable of seeing that Adolfo is useless shouldn't they have been able to see through Pedro?
 

You know what? We've seen how controlling Gracie is, how classist: as I said long ago, I think this love of Montse for JL was a teenage rebellion thing. Montse was drawn to the type of man she knew her mother would reject, the attraction being directly proportional to Gracie's rejection. While Montse did want JL to present himself and their love to her Father and I think she did love JL, her love seemed to have an artificial, reactionary drama queen quality to it. The parental dynamic loomed large in her love story with JL.

Now with Ale Montse is experiencing a relationship with a man in which the parental dynamic is not as central. Yes, she felt compelled to marry Ale to save her family financially but for the first time she is not living under her parent's roof and despite the parade of family, friends and staff throughout their home, this is the first time she has dealt with a man, her husband, in their home. Though it is rough and fraught with misunderstandings and their
own hypocritical self-righteousness, she is learning to love Ale based on occasional peeks of his humanity and tenderness. It has got to be touching and confusing that Ale genuinely likes her JL and trusts him as the ranch foreman and as a friend. I think JL feels this confusion too and also feels the waning intensity of Montse's passion. I can almost hear Montse and JL independently thought bubbling, "Damn! This Ale is a great guy!" which draws Ale to Montse and makes JL the more anxious to get Montse away.

Anywho, I went back and watched the last two minutes of capitulo 24 and oh. my. word. The way Alejandro melted into Montse's embrace as she entreated him not to put Dimwit out. That kiss, which he initiated but which she prolonged by tenderly but insistently pulling his mouth into hers. . he even gently sways, it seems, to the song swelling in the background. Ah! This is what I watch novelas for. These two are suh-weeet together!

Lila
 

Lila, I love your take on the Ale-Montse-JL triangle.

About Nadia and Pedro…

I don't have a hard time imagining how naive Nadia's head could have been turned by this handsome, older man focusing his attentions on her. His stammering formality would seem like courtly diffidence. If he never tried to force himself on her, it was obviously out of respect. If he appeared a little controlling about the wedding, the honeymoon or where they would live afterward -- oooh, how virile!

The iciness, the indifference, the repulsion, the aggression -- these are all the treats that Nadia discovered on her honeymoon and afterward.

[I would argue that Montserrat was similarly naive when she fell for José Luis. She didn't know he was a single-minded obsessive who would never let go, no matter how circumstances changed, no matter how many people would have to suffer because of his obsession.]
 

Lila,,,,mmmm...WOW. What a thoughtful analysis. I think that you are on to something. Monymony was rebelling against her controlling , greedy, class conscious mama when she fell for JL. Now, let us all take a moment to remember our first teenage puppy love. Now that the imagine and memory is in your mind, would you want to be married to him/her ? Me...no.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all. I hope that 2014 is a year filled with health, love, and happiness for you all.
 

Angelica...is the Angel. Doesn't Nadia mean nobody? Was the name chosen by the writers because to Pedro, she IS a nobody ? What a very strange buckaroo. What is this guy up to , and what is his backstory ? We know that he is a corrupt politician and a really cold fish, but what else is going on to make him such an asshat ? Did he marry Nadia just for the cash and prizes she brought with her ?
 

Susanlynn- Pedro does treat Nadia like nadie, but the name means hope. Does she have a hope of surviving this marriage? Or is it a fool's hope that Pedro will reciprocate her love one day? In Arabic, the name means delicate/tender.
 

Vivi..I have never had a student named Nadia from an Arab country, but I know that their names all mean something...Amal(hope)...Kamal (Special)...Jamal/jamila (beautiful)...Basim (happy, smiling).
 

I, Khalilah Sabreen, loosely translated, patient and enduring friend, wish a peaceful and prosperous New Year to you and everyone you hold dear!

:D Lila
 

Lila, I couldn't agree more with your thoughtful analysis of why Montserrat fell for JL. Yep, teenage rebellion, totally makes sense.

NM, I can also see how Pedro's manners might seem courtly, especially if he was actually polite and attentive to Nadia. Which he would be, of course, if he were wooing her.

I don't see Pedro and JL as being the same sort of man. I think Pedro is fully conscious of what he had to do to get Nadia and her money/status. JL is more of a train wreck sort of guy. Not that any of you were comparing the two guys. I realize the comparisons were of Montse and Nadia, the two young and inexperienced ladies who so want to be In Love.
 

Lila...Khalilah...may I ask where you are from ? I have never had a student named Khalilah, but I have had several Khalil's.
 

Ah Susanlynn, would that it were exotic! I am American, of Nigerian/Irish descent, born in Arkansas and raised in Michigan where we are have been being showered all day with lovely snow just in time for the Winter Classic Hockey Match between Toronto Maple Leaves and the Detroit Red Wings being held at the Big House, my alma mater: The University of Michigan!

At any rate Khalilah is the feminine form and a bit awkward on a blog so I shortened it to Lila! :D

Lila
 

Lila: I absolutely loved your description of the scene in cap 24. That is also why I love watching novelas. Those two are great together. It's also why I hung on to Corazon Indomable for so long, they had great chemistry together also. It's a shame that in the end even AB and DA couldn't make up for the horrible script. Happy New Year to everyone.
 

Ah Lila...I remember Khalilah from one of our blog lines years ago. Was that you? (If so, great to have you back. And if not, great to have you as a new commenter)

Victoria L....so you were watching Corazon Indomable also? Man, what a trainwreck. Keeping my fingers crossed for this one because I really like it so far.
 

Gloria & Urban:
Thanks to much for this very detailed recap of two excellent epi's. I just now finished reading all of the comments. Boy, this TN is like none I have ever seen, and I have been watching them for over 20 years.

I love that the protagonistas are so flawed. Usually they are too good, and too forgiving. I like that Montse and Ale are opposite of the norm.

Score one for Ale! Thank goodness he finally stood up for his wife and told Maria to stay out of her room, and to treat her with the respect she deserves as his wife and lady of the house. He basically told her, ShutUpMaria!

Ale took one step forward, and then 100 steps back when he did nothing after that kiss with Maria. Of course she had to get him drunk to do it, but it still happened. When I saw that happening, I was on the phone with my mom and starting yelling "NO! NO! NO!". My poor mother thought something horrible was happening at my house, then I told her that I saw Maria and Ale kissing, and she understood my anguish and disgust. I had to look away. But then I watched it again to see how long it lasted. Even though he did kind of kiss her back, I do think that he was the one to pull away. He had a sort of confused look on his face, like he didn't know why it happened. Because she's after you! OPEN YOUR EYES! This Bitch needs to go! Sorry ladies, but Maria brings out the worst in me.

I feel so bad for Nadia. She deserves so much better then Pedro. He had to have treated her different before they got married. I wish they would do a back story on that. I hope the anvil comes looking for Pedro, soon!

Dimibrow and Adolfito need to go too. Maybe they can take Maria with them to a land far, far away. Where they can let Ale, Montse, Nadia, Fina and the rest of Aguazul live in peace.

Lila: I loved your comment about Montse, Ale and JL. ITA, you took the words out of my mouth. I also loved the way Ale melted when Montse showed him some affection. That was the kind of kiss I had been waiting for! Can't wait for tonight's epi!

Back to work...hasta pronto!
 

Judy B: Unfortunately I did watch most of CI, though I just couldn't slog it through to the end. I even defended it early on but it comes to a point where you can't defend the indefensible anymore. I too have high hopes for this one, I hope it doesn't let us down.
 

Victoria and Aunty Ann, thank you! I'm a sucker for romance and luuuuuv a couple with chemistry! Yes, Maricruz and Octavio had it like Lety and Fernando and (in my opinion) in each novella it was wasted! Argh! I hope they let our love birds love each other even if its punctuated with fights.

Yep, JudyB I am the Khalilah of yore. I took a novella break and have had some family issues but I'm hoping this community can help distract and delight me even when the going gets toughest. Thank you for the welcome, love this blog! (hmmm, novella keeps getting corrected with two ls)

Lila
 

Sorry to hear that there are family issues, Khalilah, but you're right, in that telenovelas and this rockin' blog line can both distract and delight when real life gets us down.

One of my loveliest students, who had married at 18 and had 8 kids, once gently reminded me when I was lamenting some family problem:

Judy, with a family, it's ALWAYS something.

And it is. But I hope the joys outweigh the woes, and if not, come kvetch with us.
 

Hee, "Come kvetch with us" would make a great plaque for The Patio.

Khalila/Lila, I'm so glad you've found time to join us again. I remember enjoying some of your choice comments back in CME and STuD days.
 

Lila.....I too am a sucker for romance. You can tell where I'm coming from when I say my favorite writer is Jane Austen, followed by the Bronte sisters. I have the BBC deluxe boxed set of Pride and Prejudice. When Colin Firth emerged from that lake with that wet shirt plastered to his body, I almost swooned! Growing up, my favorite novel and movie was Gone With the Wind(which the lead characters in this tn remind me of in some ways). Someone on this blog(I don't remember who) said she read Kathleen Woodiwiss novels. I did too as a teenager. My favorite was The Wolf and the Dove. So you can see I am a diehard fan of romance.
 

Victoria...I am sitting right next to you , girl...Gone with the Wind and Kathleen Woodiwiss.---Susanlynn, hopeful romantic. P.s. I have never seen Colin in Pride and Prejudice, but I loved him many other movies..BridgetJones, Valmont, love Actually.
 

Lila...to echo our Judyb, if you have family, you will have issues. You can sit next to me on the patio.
 

Susanlynn.....You have to see P&P with Colin Firth someday. He was awesome in it. I read in England they have even erected a statue of him as Darcy. The Keira Knightly movie version of P&P was also excellent, I found the musical score to be hauntingly beautiful. My favorite actor as a child was Clark Gable, he reminded me of my father with his dark hair and mustache and green eyes.
 

Victoria..I was watching a news report , and they showed a statue of Colin emerging from that lake at the estate in England where p and p was filmed. The statue looked a bit creepy to me, but I can see the real Colin in my mind's eye. I will have to look for the video.

I also liked Clark gable as I am a fan of tall, dark, and handsome. Clark and the beautiful Vivien Leigh were the perfect pair to portray Rhett and Scarlett.
 

Susanlynn.... tall,dark and handsome is my favorite although I do make exceptions for Sebastian Rulli and William Levy.
 

Thank you, JudyB. Yeah, I guess I should know that about families by now. These stories and all you very bright, well-read and traveled and witty folks lift my spirits. Cap'n. Sylvia yes I really had fun with CME and StuD and I even did a little sub-recapping. I continue to be in awe of you and all the other recappers! What effort, dedication and brilliance! Susanlynn, thank you and I would feel honored to sit next to you on the patio. Victoria, let's get our fans ready for when Montse and Ale turn up the heat! Y'all (and every commenter, too) are a great bunch!

Lila
 

Victoria..right there with you. I was not a fan of William when I first saw him in Pasion, but I enjoyed him on dancing with the stars and LT. Sebastian Rulli is muy guaypo! and he seems to just get better looking as he matures. These guys and this forum can take your mind off real life when it starts getting a little too....real.
 

Susanlynn...I didn't like Rulli or Levy in Pasion either(I couldn't take my eyes off FC),but I LOVED Levy in Sortilegio and CCEA and I really like Rulli in this one. Lila, I have a feeling (no spoiler) things are going to heat up on this show.