Caray, Caray!

Oh my gosh, NovelaMaven! You already have, what I am SURE is to be a super recap, posted!!

Ok...must go and heartily dig into the evening "meal"!!

Will return shortly. :))

Fatima
 

Good recap NovelaMaven, but I think it was a little insensitive to use "queers" as an insult. These men are evil because they're gay and I think it's offensive to the LGBT community to use that term as an insult. Besides that very good recap
 

Maddy:

Thank you very much for your comment. I used the word "queers" quite deliberately and meant it ironically. I meant no offense to the LGBT community.

I was trying to point out that the writers are using the sexual orientation of these characters to distance them from the viewers. They don't want this to be a narconovela in which the bad guys are romanticized. Unfortunately, using sexual orientation to repel viewers is, at its heart, somewhat homophobic.

You wrote:

" These men are evil because they're gay"

I would take issue with that. These men are evil; they are also possibly gay. But they are certainly not evil because of their sexual orientation.

I do think the writers are trying very hard to make Pedro and Ezequiel dreadful, unlikeable people. I just wish they had not thrown homosexuality into the mix.
 

Oh crap I meant these men AREN'T evil because they're gay. I'm such an idiot, I really need to read back my comments. And it is kinda weird for the writers to throw homosexuality in there. And it's good to know there was no offense there, it's hard to tell nowadays.
 

Thanks for pointing that out I was contradicting my own statement!
 

Dear NovelaMaven, this is a first for me! A shout out in the body of the recap! Amazing!! You are so kind. :))

I love the prologue's you have provided for every episode you have recapped. They have always set the tone for what is to come. I love that part.

I understood immediately how you were using the word "queer" and did not find it offensive. I think you know the depths of my empathy by now, so I am telling you the truth when I tell you I understand the context in which you used this word.

Some of my very early and initial thoughts:

--Refugio needs a brain transplant. It was bad enough with Maria planting ideas in JL's head, but Refugio NEVER stops to think before opening his mouth. This, I am sure, will come back to haunt him in a very bad way.

--Loved "bobblehead fool". Basura is the perfect "model" for a bobblehead! I say we use that longing gaze he always gives Pedro as the "look" for his bobblehead doll

--Can you imagine what would be happening now if The Whore Maria were not in jail?! I hate to even ponder what she would do with this latest happening.

--Graciela's bony knees! The only thing that was humorous about this whole episode.

--Carlota has led too sheltered a life. She either gets a grip on this nasty business around her or she could also end up a victim.

--I'm glad Montserrat slapped JL. He needed that.

I honestly don't think I can see this episode, either. It's almost too much to even bear. I know it sounds so goofy, but there is so much evil. I am still reeling from Basura's cold blooded murder of another man for no reason at all. These actors are definitely doing their job as I "feel" (a tad too much)what they are trying to convey.

I don't think I have seen so many hateful, evil, dysfunctional men in one place before.

Tomas' treatment of Fina, while not violent, is emotional abuse of the highest order. These women have no emotional support. How are they expected to live through and survive such dysfunction?

I have to say, I've never (in my limited TN viewing) seen anything quite like this story.

NovelaMaven, you are such a talent. Thank you so very much!

Fatima




 

I'm glad to know that was just a typo, Maddy.

For what it's worth, I just changed the word to 'gays'.

(I really don't want anyone to feel bad about anything that I write here. If I can avoid hurt feelings by tweaking a word or two, I'm glad to do it.)
 

How could I forget?!

This is my fave line of all: "Padre Anselmo declares with Mosaic certainty that Alejandro is innocent."

"Mosaic certainty". Absolutely Fabulous!!

Fatima
 

Gosh, I'm all over the place here, but when I read "Mosaic Certainty", all I could think of was a) this was one of your best lines EVUH!! an b) a very brief visual image of Charlton Heston's face on a Padre Anselmo body. Heaven only knows why that came to mind. :))

Fatima
 

The men on this novela really need to get a grip mentally, physically, and emotionally.
 

Dear Fatima:

You are so unfailingly kind and generous in your comments. Thank you so much for reading closely. I am glad that you were not offended by my original wording, though, as I just indicated above, I did change it a bit. People shouldn't have to work quite so hard to get at what I mean, right?

I wasn't expecting the evil narco theme to become so prominent in this novela. There was plenty of ordinary wickedness to go around without adding a fraternity of murderous sociopaths into the mix. I confess that I'm not thrilled with the way this is going.

"Refugio needs a brain transplant"
Ha! The problem is there don't seem to be a whole lot of promising donors.

ooh -- I'm so glad you liked "Mosaic certainty! Thanks again, chica!
 

NovelaMaven:

Fantastic, fabulous, sparkling recap! I so love the conversational preamble you put up first, so wonderful. I feel like we are sitting down having a conversation on what just happened.

I am liking JL again. The poor guy is following orders and his instincts are so good. I think deep down he knows Ale is so not guilty. He just has to find a way to prove it as does Ale. I really wish Tia Pru would make a visit and tell her brother, El Capitan, exactly what a putz Joaquin really is. She so has his number.

Wow, could Graceless get any lower, first the clothing, the telling of the shutting up to Tia Lottie, don't cause a scene to Monse, and then Dimmy is her son, by Jove! This woman is really intolerable!

I so loved Fina in this capitulo. Good for her for standing up to her tyrant of a brother. May a mini anvil hit him in the head. What he is doing is cruel. Throwing his own sister out on the street. I just know that Graceless won't keep her word, but I really hope Dimmy stands up to Graceless and helps poor Fina out. I think Monse will also help her.

Pedro and EZ of all the looney ones, they are the looniest! Sure have Ginnie have an accident. I hope someone catches them doing this. I know it will be a long time but I really can't wait for the double sized, super duper, pie carted sized anvil to hit the two of them, the sooner the better.

I felt so bad for Addled, the poor schmuck. I really wish he would contact his parents in Europe and tell them what is going on. Or talk to JL or Ale. I want Addled to stay alive and for him to have some help. I think he can be redeemed. I really miss his antics.

Thanks again NovelaMaven, for this most sparkling gem of a recap : )
 

Dear Mads:

Thanks so much! I'm especially pleased you -- and Fatima too -- have been enjoying the little prologues to the recap proper. (I probably spend more time on these couple of paragraphs than I do on the whole rest of the thing, so it is gratifying to know that you find them worth reading.)

I also thought José Luis came across as a sympathetic figure last night. (I can't believe I just wrote that -- two nights ago I was despising his whiny, obsessive aggressiveness!)

Tomorrow more monkey wrenches. [snort]
 

Pedro is one of the cruelest villians ever,wanting to cause an accident on an innocent person and mentally extrociating Joaquin with it,he is a true puppet master and his anvil will be HUGE. His soul is so cancereus it does not even deserve to go to Hell but to a some more wicked place,if there even is one.

Refugios brain transplant will be hard ,hopefully the donor is not affiltrated with Pedro Medina!
 

"Hell, these two aren't even real machos -- they're just a couple of overcompensating gays." I don't think this sentence even makes any sense unless you have a view that gays are not "macho"! A ludicrous comment. And while I am on this rant, will someone please tell me in what episode do we have proof these these two sorry sods are gay? The sauna scene? His wife opinion? I still don't think they are closeted gays. They are both jerks. If the writers finally make them come out as gay, that's quite beside the point of their evilness.
 

Thanks so much NovelaMaven for a witty title and fun recap.

Perhaps the writers have made our two crazies so insane to mitigate the behavior of the other men. As Fatima noted, I don't think I've seen a tn where so many males, including the protagonists, are problems. I'm sad b/c I love the idea of romance but there really isn't a beanie that can make me believe this.

I feel badly for Fina. Tomas has been a jerk and tonight he took the cake. The upside is it will contribute to Fina being more independent though she is in that horrible house.

Refugio continues to be a dunce and easily led. Thank goodness that as a broken clock he can be right twice-a-day, the few times he gets things right.
 

Dear Novela Maven:

This was an outstanding recap! You have set the bar so high for all of us recappers. This was a particularly great effort.

Like Fatima, I loved your introduction to this recap. You always manage to use these prologues to place us in the frame and to give us thoughtful perspective before we hear about the events of the day.

I haven't seen tonight's epi yet, but I have to say that this comment: "even murderous Ezequiel, who is nodding like a bobblehead fool"...was one of the real gems of the piece. I got a chuckle out of that.

I see that JL redeemed himself a bit this evening. I want him to at least try to show up for his dying wife. Also, Dios Mio! I cannot believe that something will happen to Virginia! I hope this does not come to pass.

Finally I have to say that I took your comment about Pedro and EZ in the spirit in which I believe it was intended; as a facetious and somewhat caustic comment on the writers toying with the 'gay theme' to distance us from these repulsive murderers. As I said yesterday, and you said today with Maddy's agreement, the inferred sexual orientations of the antagonists—and we still have no confirmation of the idea that they are gay—has nothing to do with their villainy. They are just evil, period.

Thanks again for this marvelous recap, Novela Maven. As always, I truly admire your work. We are very lucky to have you recapping for Caray Caray.

Elna June
 

Good morning NovelaMaven, and thank you for your imaginative and original recap. GREAT title, another informative prologue and, bonus: a quote that is alarmingly spot-on.

Thank you for injecting humor into these dreadful events. Your comment that "even on this formal occasion, Graciela has not lost an opportunity to show off her bony knees in her too short mother-of-the-bride dress" had me snorting. And I admit I also chuckled at your "overcompensating gays" crack, taking it to mean this is not your personal viewpoint, but rather your poking fun at the ludicrous way this subject is treated in our telenovela.

I also like your "Very Civil Ceremony", heh.

Yay Fina! What will Dimmy do now? I'm loving this story line.

Virginia is next on the menu? Yikes!! This might work against Pedro, with Joaquin figuring he's got nothing to lose by blabbing.

Thanks again NM! Great read.
 

NovelaMaven,
Thank you! Once again you have shared your talents with us and we get the pleasure of your expertise in observation, and attention to detail. Great title, awesome prologue and impeccable recap.

The one bright moment in this capitulo was the wedding and baptism. I was worried that Ale and Montse wouldn't be able to get re-married. I'm glad that JL didn't take Ale before those things happened.

I think that JL was trying to give Ale the benefit of the doubt, but is still not convinced of his innocence. I really hope that JL DOES NOT listen to ShutUpRefugio! It took no time for Joaquin to convince him that Ale was guilty. I wanted to tape his mouth shut. He is so gullible. I swear, I think I could sell him some ocean front property in Arizona!

Poor Fina! I hope this brings her and Dimi closer. But that might take a miracle, since they are now under Gracie's roof.

By the look of the avances, BM is back in the running for being Gracie's daughter and Ale's sister.

BTW, I did not take offense to any of your recap.

More comments tomorrow.

Off to sleep...hasta pronto!
 

Awesome job NM! I applaud your forthright retelling of last night's episode. I on the other hand, wanted to throw something at my TV with some of the inane rantings from some characters.

I'm sorry. I'm first in line to slap Refugio silly. Someone just shut off that pea-brain of his.
Why is everyone so dead sure that Arechiga is so trust worthy and believing everything coming out of that mouth?

And JL standing there and even thinking that well, maybe Refugio has a point. He could get Monse back now. You could see the little bitty wheels turning. Yeah, she looked to me like someone who was ready to move on once the jail key was turned. I don't think he expected to see her reaction and attachment. But he still thinks he would have a chance anyway? Honestly.

Wow, Tomas sure took one step down the rung of tolerance to me. He threw Fina out? Really? At first I wondered if this was a test by her to see if Gracie was true to her word, but now I can see him doing that. Poor Gracie, she's back to square one on her money-grabbing schemes. Tee hee. Now Dim needs to step up and take in his wayward wife. Think he was waiting to see what Momma would say.

At least Nadia opened her mouth for once for something good and warned Carlotta. Will she listen though?

Daisynjay
 

Excellent work, NM.

My biggest difficulty with this episode is the perp walk. JL should have taken Alejandro out the other door so as not to make a spectacle of the arrest before the wedding guests.

Of course we can expect Graceless to bitch and moan about the gossip all through tonight's episode.

I liked Monserrat's dress. It was Graceless' dress that annoyed me. The top of it looked OK until she stood up; that skirt looked ridiculous in combination with it. It also looked ridiculous on her.

Not to add more fuel to a fire we're trying to put out, but I'm wondering if it's possible that Pedro and EZ are criminals in revenge for the social shunning of their sexual orientation. I realize that this would probably be very dated, but there are other very dated elements in this story.

Refugio has just proven his gullibility last night. However, my theory about him is that if he were more intelligent he'd be scared witless over what's going on around them in Aguazul. More after caffeine.
 

NovelaMaven, this was a rich, sumptuous feast. Your beautifully expressed, powerful words infused light, insight and spirit to all of the pivotal events. I delight in your eloquence but most of all, your humor. "Love in the Time of Cannabis" indeed. Thank you for the happiness you gave us with this masterful summary.

"No one seems to notice Montserrat's Real Housewives of New Jersey look. Or perhaps they are too polite to comment", "A faint tinge of dread colors the air despite the perfection of the day", "A Very Civil Ceremony" and "Josefina (who manages to look both stunning and ungainly today in her one shoulder gown)" were only a few of my favorites.

Pedro and EZ continue their ascent (descent?) into the underbelly of cruelty: "But not the sick one. The younger one, the one he has such hopes for." Oh no, please. That would be unbearable? But who is going to stop these vile men? JL is intertwined with the Ale nonsense, who is left to defend poor Virginia?

As you wisely noted Fatima "I don't think I have seen so many hateful, evil, dysfunctional men in one place before". I agree, sighing unhappily and deeply.

Elna June, although my confidence in JL did waiver for a moment, I am glad to see he is on the right track and is giving into his instincts that Ale is likely innocent.

Madelaine, shall we add Tomas to the above list? I've had it with his evil, bullying menacing tirades. Now that he has taken everything from Fina, he has lost his "power". I certainly hope she will rally to reclaim what is hers. Right Sylvia? As others have pointed out, this is a modern day tale and she has legal options she must use.

Karen, loved your "Refugio continues to be a dunce.Thank goodness that as a broken clock he can be right twice-a-day, the few times he gets things right" HA! Gracias amiga, we needed that! I see Ref is annoying you too daisy!

NovelaMaven, things are indeed dank and dark now but your marvelous recap showed that hope is indeed possible and redemption and retribution may not be as unattainable as we might have thought.

Diana
 

"José Luis demonstrates his moral superiority over Refugio (which, when you think about, isn't saying much)."

Ah NovelaMaven...you have the ability to convey so much in so few words. Excellent.

I always look forward to your recaps and am happy they come on a Wednesday morning when I'm not in a rush. Your descriptions are always dead on--

[Pedro] "small pale eyes masked by dark glasses"

"Padre Anselmo declares with Mosaic certainty."

"Pedro, the puppet master"

"Josefina, who manages to look both stunning and ungainly today..."

Ah, the power of words. And you are the master. And may I say I too found nothing offensive in your recap. Because I know you and know you would never cast slurs either deliberately or unknowingly. That is not your character nor your mindset.

Still as an owner of two rather bony knees, I'm just happy I'm wearing nothing but slacks these days!
 

thanks so much, Novela maven , for another snappy recap.

I couldn't believe that they arrested Ale at the wedding and hauled him out in handcuffs as the guests and family watched the bizarre parade in stunned silence. Then, everyone just looked on as his beautiful wife fell to her knees and wept. I did not expect Gracie to go to her daughter to hold and comfort her, but I thought that Tia would have been next to her in a flash. I would have been right there down on my knees with her. I was so relieved when Nadia finally went to her. And despite all the drama, some guests just stayed there chatting at the tables as everything fell apart. Just as in real life, some folks have trouble leaving a party.

Looking at Gracie in that costume with that mini skirt revealing those bony knees and the mile high hairdon't , I couldn't help thinking Bridget Bardot. Pedro seems to be channeling James Dean with that greasy, slicked back DA. Back to the 50s.

JL watching Ale and Mony making out through the one way mirror was way creepy. Yikes

Well, off to teach subject verb agreement. Later.
 

NovelaMaven, thanks for your wonderful recap. I sure agree about Montse's "Housewives of NJ" style. She usually looks so much more distinctive and attractive.

Great slap! JL sure had it coming for so many actions previous to last night's episode. He was incredibly proper and even kind last night so much so I can see him being an ally of Alejandro in the future. His best question was when he asked Alejandro if he hadn't been out to the ranch to check on things. JL is thinking as compared to Refugio. I sure agree with you all that Refugio is not up to the task.

You just knew the perp walk was coming. What a dramatic scene!

Pedro and Ezequiel's plan for Virginia is just sick. Ah,for the tales of the mafiosi of old that left the wives and children out of it!

Graciela sure got a surprise with Josefina on her doorstep. Yet, I also put the fault on Josefina who knowing how her bully brother was, allowed herself to be manipulated (again) into having that confronation with him. Josefina also needs to start to think more and not just react. She just comes across as incapable of handling her own affairs which has just fueled her brother. Her character has become tedious for me. I think I have said that before. LOL

So good to know BM is still behind bars!

Jarifa






 

Hi NovelaMaven!

Fabulous job as usual! My favorite standout line was Padre's "Mosaic" certainty. I immediately pictured him in ancient Hebrew garb with a staff and a big stone tablet inscribed with the words, "Alejandro es inocente!"

Is it me, or am I starting to see subtle changes in Josefina? I would swear that her posture is slightly better and that her features are getting slightly more feminized. Also, I think that her clothing is starting to get slightly more flattering. I would SWEAR that this is not my imagination. My theory is that I am correct and that the writers are having her make a gradual metamorphosis rather than an overnight one. Indeed, she is getting more and more of a backbone and feeling more and more confident in herself, Dim's feelings and her ability to make him fall in love with her. If I am correct, this would not be a surprise as I feel that this is one of the best written novelas I have ever seen. Attention to detail is great and it would show great thought to have Fina slowly blossom in front of our eyes.

JL's behavior makes me feel as if I am at an emotional tennis match. When he acts stupid, like insisting he has to protect Montse from Ale, I am really annoyed and want to kick him to the curb. Then he acts noble, in my opinion, because I am convinced that he really did NOT want to arrest Ale and does NOT believe Ale is guilty. I believe (no spoiler) that JL will be instrumental in proving Ale's innocense. I just hope that Angelica has some sort of miraculous turn-around so they can live happily ever after.

Virginia.....meh....

Refugio.......how did this guy ever get to his current position of authority in the Navy? I feel his character is probably one of the least believable characters. When I find myself wanting to FF whenever a certain character is on the screen, that is usually a sign to me that the writers lack a certain creativity in that area. Pedro, for instance, is so multi-faceted in his evil. Refugio, on the other hand, is just stupid and impulsive, over and over and over and over and over times infinity.

Glad Nadia said something to Carlota. Although I really dislike Basurto, I give the writers credit for surprising me and adding a new twist to his character. I did NOT expect him to murder that guy.

Small a anita

 

I also forgot to say that I was NOT surprised to hear that the baby G had was a girl. I am sure that baby did NOT die. I right away assumed that the baby was BSC Maria, but then there is a new girl on the scene.

I, too, was glad that Maria was not raped. That is as far as the extent of my sympathy goes for her.

Small a anita
 

anita...I agree now that I've seen the episode (Hulu Plus has been impeccable lately at getting it up early). Josefina is standing up straighter and looking better. In fact in one scene her hair was even looking better...somewhat.

I like how she's evolving and standing up to her brother, even if, short-term, it seems to be a disaster. Looking forward to seeing how she and Dimetrio manage both living under the shadow of the fearsome Graciela!
 

NovelaMaven: This is an absolutely fabulous recap. You hit all the high points.

Refugio has to be the stooopidest friend in the world. His misinterpretations have lead to his girlfriend being beaten to within an inch of her life and now he takes the word of Joaquin at face value and tries to push JL into locking up Ale and throwing away the key. What? So, there is a very superficial investigation and he wants JL to go for it.

Robledo kind of surprised me, too. Heretofore he's been one of the more sane and reasonable characters, but, he caved under pressure from Pedro. Nadia has got it right, and I hope she does something about it.

As far as Montsy's new look - just Yuck! Cheap looking wig and makeup. What are they thinking.
 

Univision does an AMAZING job of translating via closed captioning into English.
 

I thought Montse looked beautiful in her dress, hair, makeup etc . If she looked cheap, or Housewivesish than where can I sign up. I would love to look half as good as she did.

There was some great scenes last night. First from Montse slapping JL, than her going to him and continue to kissing him and finally when they both declaring how much they love while JL watches. Good stuff from Angelique & Sebastian.

I don't doubt a part of JL was happy to arrest Alec. How convenient for him to fall back on the excuse it's his job. We all know he would love for Alec to be guilty so he has shot with Montse. Sorry not buying he's conflicted etc. Why didn't he tell Alec first before going to Pedro? He know Pedro is bad character and possibly corrupt. By going to him it just made Pedro suspicious and up his plans further.
 

NoelaMaven, please don't ever drop your prologues. I feel that we need a breather after each episode and your prologues help us calm down and focus on what has really happened.

I feel like we take a breath before the new episode starts and after it ends. Like you, I am so very disappointed that there is this narco theme, but I suppose the writers had to do something put in place of the war that was highlighted in the original stories.

Pedro and Basura make me feel ill every time they are on screen. We know that men like this exist. This is what makes it even more difficult when watching them.

Dear Diana, you have hit on a key point and one which bears repeating again: "Now that he has taken everything from Fina, he has lost his "power".

Fatima
 

It is my sincere hope that Fina will now act upon Tomas' loss of his "power".

I continue to focus on Nadia and what I would do if I found myself in her position. She has got to see at some point that her verbal taunting of her husband is getting her nowhere. In fact, it could become even more dangerous for her.

Pedro has his Achilles Heel. Nadia has to find it, though I must say, I don't see any clue as to what that heel is (I think the writers are leading us down the primrose path with the sexual orientation bit, for what that's worth).

I am also really curious as to whether or not the Mexican viewing audience feels that there IS a sexual orientation line in this story. Would anyone know? I wonder if our dear Jarocha is reading/watching this blog for this TN.

We had an interesting discussion over on the now concluded MPV regarding whether or not the male protagonist had died at the very end of the story. Adriana Noel informed us that the Mexican public "knew" the male prota was alive and well at the end. Yet, we all had what we thought were clues saying otherwise. I was totally confused, I must admit.

I also wonder if Nadia's parents are meant to show up sometime in the future. I'm not sure where the writers are headed here.

Fatima
 

NovelaMaven- Your recaps are always such a treat to settle down in to read. I definitely got your ironic tone in reference to Pedro and Basurto. I don’t know what the writers/director want to convey as far as their sexuality, and at this point I don’t care, because these two are just evil, period. Everyone is in danger from them!

JL is definitely struggling with his instincts that tell him Ale is innocent, and his inner demons that want to believe the worst about a man who has the love of the woman he loves. Those demons are now being fueled by evidence (the illegal drugs on Ale’s land), Joaquin’s lies, and Refugio’s angry impulsiveness. Will JL dig for the truth, or let demons carry him away?

What I noticed about this tn last night is the way all the men (and Graciela) disregard or belittle the thoughts and feelings of the women around them. Ale did it with Monse and does it with Maria. JL does it with Angie and Monse (disregarding what she has told him that SHE feels for Ale). The Padre does it (who calls an assault and a kidnapping attempt a tonteria?). Tomas does it with Fina. Refugio with Esme. On and on. The men (and Graciela) just bulldoze right over them.

The only woman in this tn who stood up, made herself be heard, and was obeyed by the men, has been Tia Prudencia. (I don’t count Gracie because she does everything through lies and manipulation.) Pasofino- I was not surprised by Robledo’s actions. He’s the one who falsely accused and condemned JL in the first place. The only reason he came around was because of the influence of his sister, Prudencia.

 

Dear NovelaMaven,

Thanks for the fantastic recap! I'm so happy others have been commenting on your amazing introductions, too, as it has made me remember to tell you how much I always love and look forward to them. The entire recap is beautifully written and wonderful. Here are just a few of my favorite lines:

"A faint tinge of dread colors the air despite the perfection of the day. "

"The long shot shows that even on this formal occasion, Graciela has not lost an opportunity to show off her bony knees in her too short mother-of-the-bride dress"

And all your great subheadings, especially this one: "This little pantomime does not go unnoticed. "

Thanks so much for all your thoughts and observations.

I was thinking that at episode 80, we might be officially at the half-way point--or at least close! I heard the rumor of 50 episodes being added, but has it been confirmed?

Somehow I had it in my mind that 160 was the original number of episodes planned, but I can't remember where or how I heard this and could be totally making it up. I'd love to know what any one else knows about this.

Thanks again, as always. What a treat to read this this morning!
 

Lordy! My head was spinning there near the end! How fast Tomas kicked Fina to the curb and the revelation that Gracie had a daughter instead of a son kinda overshadowed the whole episode! Que Que What!

First of all, thank you NovelaMaven, NovelaMaster/Mistress? should be your name. I love your prefaces they really set the tone and gets me in the right spot to enter the alternate crazy universe of Aguazul. I'll get to comments later, just wanted to react:

Gracie's impatience/indifference to the Lord is going to get her squashed like a bug in the end: that's as bad as Momma-dissin' and her very existence as a Mother is the ultimate Momma dis!

I kept thinking that I hope Robledo and JL didn't have the nerve to eat any of Ale's food at the wedding/baptism. Hee Hee!

Montse did my slap of JL I fantasized about in a comment over the weekend! Yah baby!

Both Robledo and Ale are poor judges of character and just plain gullible: Ale duped by JL then by Joaquin; Robledo duped by Gracie and now by Pedro. Doh!

JL was creepy watching Montse and Ale passionately kissing goodbye through the two way mirror. Damn, dude! Give it up already!

Somebody called him Refoolio, nice call. What a doofus, chismoso, petty knucklehead! His shrilly egging JL on to take this chance at venganza made me so mad! Uuuuuuuf! He's already brought his girlfriend back and delivered her to Pedro's altar and now the idiot is on the wrong side of this narco drama.

Thank you NovelaMaven for this skillful and fun rendering of this exciting episode. Can't wait to enjoy comments!
 

Vivi, I like your observation on the male/female behavior we have seen so far. It rather bothered me at the beginning of this TN, seeming to be terribly out of place in the modern world.

But as the TN is progressing, it seems we are seeing the non-villianess characters are starting to be more assertive. Maybe not always in a smart way (Nadia's stupid plans). The observation on Fina I think is spot on too by those who mentioned. I actually thought that to myself last night that she looked more sure of herself and looked her brother straight in the eyes when she confronted him. It might look to have backfired, but this may be a way for her to find herself stronger and a new attitude. Lord I hope for her Dim joins her on a dual journey.

Who knows, as this keeps moving forward, we may see the women become the fierce heroes in this tale. I wouldn't mind that at all. Our male heroes need a lesson in 21st century attitudes.

Reading some of the feedback on the EZ and Pedro characters, I never actually picked up the vibe that their relationship had any sexual overtones. I think that feeling has come from Pedro's overall attitude towards women, as we saw at the club, and Nadia's belief that there has to be a reason he never touched her and voila, being gay must be it and she latched on to EZ as to his companion. I think Pedro's background may be way more complex than that. And why would EZ have gone after Esme? I see him with Pedro, I just see a suck-up trying to climb the power chain.

I personally hope the writers are not bringing in a sexuality story-line surrounding two evil men and try to explain their evilness somehow is related. To me, as the proud mother of a gay young man, I would find that rather abhorrent to tie those points together. For right now, I will say, I don't see it and I think it's all in Nadia's head. Hope it stays there.

Daisynjay
 

There is one person that Pedro is afraid of, and that's El Capitan. He knows the Capitan is not bribable and a man of integrity. The Capitan has no idea that Pedro is dirty.

In defense of JL, he does know that Pedro is dirty, but doesn't know that Pedro is behind this. I think, given enough time, he will make the connection between Joaquin and Pedro. JL has that little stumbling block of "jealousy" right now and can't think straight.
 

Count me in as one who is not happy with the narco theme and all that that entails. If I knew that this is where the novela was headed I probably would have nixed it at the start.

Jarifa
 

I dont know get why people are unhappy with the narco theme,is La Reina Del Sur the reason? I kind of like it,it works better then the awful People trafficing in La Tempestad

And Pedro can easily send people to kill El Capitan just like he does with other people who dont keep their mouth shut and end up betraying him,
 

Even if this tn hits on the theme of drug trafficking, that does not make it a narconovela. There are no happy endings or real justice in narconovelas-- something we can expect in this tn by the end. Pedro and Basurto are not shown to be larger than life, living in gangsters' paradise surrounded by women, fancy cars, and excess. They are not being romanticized at all, which I appreciate since I think the narconovela genre tends to make that life seem glamorous and exciting (as well as dangerous). There are good narconovelas, and there are bad ones. But LQLVMR is not one at all.
 

This novela is more based on how greed can corrupt you and to how many lengths you would go to get what you want then it being a narconovela,its like AB but better.
 

Demetrios, if this novela becomes like most of the narco ones there is a serious risk of the violence taking over and becoming the attraction. We are now getting the heads-up for a potential torture-porn plot point.

I realize that narco tales are probably more interesting to men, but I don't want to see them overshadow normal human drama.
 

I read an article saying that this tn has been extended to 195 episodes and will wrap up in Mexico the end of July (mid-late August for us).
 

We're almost into the new territory now, then.

I just saw on IMDB that the new bitch is being played by Lisette, who was Miriam in AB.
 

Nanette, I forgot to thank you for another excellent list you wrote yesterday! I love reading your lists. :))

So, Urban, you are saying yet another "bad" person is coming to the scene? Brother!

I think we need a Nanette Good Guy/Bad Guy list to include the new addition.

Fatima
 

Robo is supposed to last till the FiFA games and how can we reach 195 till August if we are barely on episode 80?That sounds like far fretched mathematic for me
 

Good morning everyone! I've been enjoying your comments and will do my best to reply -- please forgive me if I overlook anyone.

But first I wanted to address Fatima's question: Is the gay theme a real thing? Does the Mexican audience see it the way we do?

I'm not going to post any links to videos because they do contain some spoilers. I can tell you, however, that the jacuzzi scene got a bit of attention in Mexico. The actors were interviewed and they mugged and joked about their relationship on and off screen. (I'm sure you can find these little interview clips on YouTube).

The point is that whatever the TRUTH may be about the sexual orientation of these characters -- and we don't know it yet -- the writers are definitely leading the audience to ASSUME or SUSPECT that the characters are gay.

We have already agreed, Maddy and Elna June and I and many others that, as EJ put it so succinctly, the implied homosexuality of these men "has nothing to do with their villainy. They are just evil. Period."
 

Mexico is 10 episodes ahead of us. They might have doubles in the last week.
 

Demitrios- Each month we get 20+ episodes. 120 more episodes is just under 6 months-- early August (since we just started March).
 

The article also said the plan now is to end Robo after the start of World Cup, but it was originally planned to end before World Cup kick off.

Looked at the calendar-- 115 more episodes is 23 weeks from this episode. That is exactly Tuesday, August 12th. Given that the last two hours will be the finale, they will probably show them on the Sunday, August 10th.
 

That makes sense. It will end about 6 weeks before opera season begins!
 

Demetrios:
I could be wrong, but I'm getting the sense that you don't like Pedro very much. :)

Karen:
"Perhaps the writers have made our two crazies so insane to mitigate the behavior of the other men."
I'm not sure if you're serious, but in my opinion, it HAS had that effect. (Just as the flashback of the monster Benjamín made Alejandro look almost, well, meek.)

Elna June:
You are very kind. Thank you.

I share your hopes that JL will "show up" for his dying wife. I find his character the most inconsistently written of all. We never know WHICH José Luis will show up on any given day. Will it be the one we despise? the one we admire? the one we grieve for? [As you know, this is not the same as showing nuance and complexity -- this is just choppy writing.]

Sylvia:
I agree that hurting Virginia might backfire on Pedro. I suppose the idea is to do something to scare her and remind Joaquín of what COULD happen if he doesn't play along.

AuntyAnn:
Thanks so much for your nice comments. I also liked the weddings and the baptism. They were a nice counterpoint to all the other stuff going on in the episode.

Daisynjay:
" I'm first in line to slap Refugio silly."

What a fabulous image! I can see the line now, snaking all around The Patio. Next!

Urban:
"I realize that narco tales are probably more interesting to men, but I don't want to see them overshadow normal human drama."

Well said! As Vivi pointed out, this isn't precisely a narconovela, but it is borrowing from the genre to some extent. I'm with you -- I find normal human drama far more interesting than narco tales.

Diana:
I love what you wrote about Josefina's brother:
"Now that he has taken everything from Fina, he has lost his "power"."

I so hope it plays out that way. (Though I also hope Josefina finds herself a good lawyer who can recover what is rightfully hers.)

JudyB:
Oh dear. Now I'm in trouble. It's just that those inappropriate and unflattering short skirts absolutely draw the eye to those knees. And knees (like elbows and necks and hands) proclaim their owner's age, whatever hair and teeth and face may be saying to the contrary. The director and the actress must be in on the joke, right?

Susanlynn:
"Just as in real life, some folks have trouble leaving a party."

Very funny. Very true. :D
 

Yes,Elna, I like Sergio Sendel as an actor and this is the coldest role he plays ,i love seeing him act but hate the character he potrays,just like BM!
 

I meant Novela Maven,sorry for any confusion:(
 

Haven't read the recap or comments yet. Just wanted to thank AuntyAnn and Sylvia for their comments on the lists yesterday.

UA: thank you for continuing to write your recaps in the historical romance novel style.

Also, something I've been lamenting about lately. I wish the writers had made Robledo single so he could be the one for Tia when EZ breaks her heart.

Nanette
 

195 episodes? Really? Wow, that worries me. These stretch models of TN's never bode well after awhile. My guess is we will get several new characters just to be able to build some new plotlines ( heavens, some of the current ones are already tired.) Love this cast, so hope they do them justice. I say move Fina and Dimwit to main characters for awhile. Let Ale and Monse take a nice vacation for a few dozen episode after they get out of this current mess. They will seem fresh and interesting again by then.

I don't mind the evil minions being involved in drugs--it is timely and relevant to the current day. But I agree with UA, the violence that can be categorized realistically with what goes on in that trade should stay as a secondary emphasis and not start taking front and center versus relationships/family and other possible plot lines. They haven't been afraid to show cruelty, beatings and shock value killings already. Lose me if that starts becoming what we see on our screens day after day.

Daisynjay
 

Jarifa:
Yes, great slap! And by JL's reaction to it, we got the sense that he was suffering as much as Alejandro by the way things were playing out. The last thing he wants is to cause pain to Montserrat, yet he has done exactly that.

I'm quite anxious to see how Graciela and Dimitrio respond to Josefina Desamparada. ;)

anita:
My gosh, you put your finger on it! Josefina is gradually changing. I'm so glad you voiced what I have been suspecting (but wasn't quite sure enough to say it aloud).

"JL's behavior makes me feel as if I am at an emotional tennis match."
Yup. I alluded to this in an earlier comment, but you say it so much better!

Pasofino:
Thanks for the kind words.
Refugio as "the stooopidest friend in the world"? Hah. I love that he gets to be a three-o stooopid, maybe the first on The Patio. And well earned!

Ggfan23:
Of course Angelique is a lovely woman. I just found her hair and make-up less flattering than usual last night.

Vivi:
"What I noticed about this tn last night is the way all the men (and Graciela) disregard or belittle the thoughts and feelings of the women around them."

What an astute observation. And yes, Prudencia has been the only woman powerful enough to stand her ground and make herself heard. (No wonder we keep hoping she will show up in Aguazul and whip these fools into shape.)

Hi Julia R:
Thanks so much. I'm glad you like the intros. I have always tried to make sense of the particular episode in the context of the whole story, but I've only recently started writing out my thoughts are a prologue to the recap.

I see that people are answering you about the length of this novela. If Vivi is right and this thing does go for 195 episodes…ay ay ay. My experience is, the longer they go, the crazier they get. [NM sighs deeply]

Lila:
I love your comments so much that I'm often tempted to just quote them wholesale. But I'll settle for this line that jumped out at me:

"Gracie's impatience/indifference to the Lord is going to get her squashed like a bug in the end: that's as bad as Momma-dissin' and her very existence as a Mother is the ultimate Momma dis!"

¡Guau!
 

There is this reoccuring question/hope about nadia's parents coming back.....why? did they come back in the other two versions of this novela? i understand where the question is coming from....the audience is looking for someone to save Nadi but. I'm not convinced thats where her salvation is comong from.
 

NovelaMaven - I love the prologue too and the whole recap. Also, just when I think no grammar bonus today, there you go translating Joaquin’s "Él lo iba a ejecutar..." Muchismas gracias.

Tomás's comment to Dim about Ale's arrest was heartless. But I'm still hanging on to a Carlota-Tomás hookup. Tomás just has some growing to do. Fina standing up to him is a start.

Nadia warned Carlota about EZ but was too vague for it to stick. And Carlota isn’t her old opinionated self when she’s with EZ. She’s still in party manners mode with him.

I did notice "Montserrat's Real Housewives of New Jersey look" [thanks, NovelaMaven]. It was in such contrast with Angie's, Nadia's, and even Fina's simple elegance. I liked Montse’s Greek goddess dress, but IMO the costumers went overboard with makeup and hair teasing. A simple chignon would’ve been better with that dress.

JL's watching Ale and Montse kissing was creepy, but it's what he needed to finally get through his thick skull that Montse is over him and totally in love with Ale. I still have no doubt that JL will do the right thing. Refugio's blabbering emphasized this to me, cause JL loves Refugio like a brother but knows he's not the sharpest tool.

As evil as Pedro is, I didn’t expect him to go after Virginia. Amelia, who I find sympathetic, could soon lose both her daughters. If Joaquin really cares about his family, he'd better start trusting Captain Robledo.
 

Hello Niecie.

Amiga, we are usualy in sync but I was a bit startled by "Bu tI'm still hanging on to a Carlota-Tomás hookup". You must be sensing not only redemption but a total personality change! :) Well, certainly stranger things have happened. If he does change and end up with a scintilla of Fina's warmth and personality - I'm in.

Also, I thought Carlota looked absolutely stunning last night! She was drop dead gorgeous.

Diana
 

NovelaMaven...forgot to thank you for that quote from Prayers for the Stolen. Would you recommend it? I just read a synopsis of the book but thought I would check with you also.
 

Thanks, NovelaMaven!

I don't think we've seen any real indication that either Pedro or EZ Basura is gay. Pedro doesn't seem attracted to anything other than money and power.

EZ, too. If he hasn't had a girlfriend before, I think it's because he hasn't wanted to have anyone to answer to, or to make demands on him money or time, or to ask questions about what he's up to. A dirty mag or a hooker probably works for him to satisfy any urges, and asks nothing more than a few pesos.

I think everything EZ does is a desperate attempt to fit in with the cool kids and gain some of their power and riches. He tries way too hard to imitate people like Pedro. I think he mostly went after Esme because dudes like Pedro seem to have a mistress or floozy to take advantage of or use for macho posturing, so he wants that too. When he heard that a wife from a good family is a political asset, he wanted to check that box, but where dinner and flowers would have been plenty, he also gave Carlota expensive jewelry. Trying WAY TOO HARD.

Same thing with the cold-blooded murder. The bad guys kill people? Well, he'll prove he's one of them by shooting a guy! The smarter evil ones are callous, but even they probably wouldn't kill someone for no reason whatsoever. EZ is TRYING WAY TOO HARD to prove himself, and ends up looking more insecure and powerless because of it, like the super-uncool kid who just doesn't get it.

I hope Dim will take this opportunity to turn himself around and prove he really does care about Josefina. Is it too much to hope that he actually works to earn money and gets an apartment for himself and Fina so they won't have to live with his mother? Then he could also show that he's going back to her because he loves her, and not for the money, now that she doesn't have any.
 

Diana, I'm betting Tomás feels really bad about throwing Fina out on the street. Carlota will uncover his potential. You'll see. :D
 

JudyB, I would absolutely recommend Prayers for the Stolen.

I read a review of the book in Sunday's paper and then looked at the first few pages on Amazon. I bought it immediately and read it in one gulp. It is terrible and beautiful and feels very true.

The writer is an American woman, a poet primarily, who grew up in Mexico, has lived in Europe and the U.S., but now considers Mexico her home.
 

Niecie:
Thanks so much for the kind words. As you can imagine, I am thrilled that we still have an optimist in our ranks.
:D

Julia:
"I don't think we've seen any real indication that either Pedro or EZ Basura is gay. Pedro doesn't seem attracted to anything other than money and power."

I agree. What we have seen are reasons why other characters in the story -- especially Nadia, but also Esmeralda -- have concluded that they are gay. That was the whole point of the crazy hot tub scene, right?

Poor EZ. It's so hard for a short guy to be cool. If he weren't so heartless, you might even feel sorry for him. [But he is. So you don't]
 

All I need to know then...I'll download it on my Kindle. Thanks NovelaMaven.
 

I guess im the only one who thinks Pedro and EZ are not gay,you know EZ just dropped the phone into the pool and by funny casuality Nadia found them together and if you ask why Pedro invited EZ to the pool is because he wants his accosiates closer,by being friends they are more willing to do your orders. And i think that "rumour " will be the downfall of Pedros political career
 

I don't think they are gay, either. I think Nadia latched onto that idea because she is desperate for anything that can free her from Pedro. If he weren't as violent as he is, she could use that to get a divorce on the grounds that he entered the marriage fraudulently. Since legal means won't work for her, she is hoping to find evidence to blackmail him. Whatever she or the general public may think, she probably knows that the old boys' club in Pedro's political party would consider it a reason not to nominate him or support his political ambitions.
 

Thanks Novela. Count me with those who love your prologues.

It seemed like nearly everyone--at least the women--were wearing the same color as the bride.

I agree about Fina looking different. I thought a couple of days ago that she looked "prettier".

I'm hoping with Dim's growing affection for Fina and signs of wanting to protect her, plus his continued standing up to his mother, will cause him to be a buffer between those two. I'm also hoping that them living in the same house will speed up that growing affection.

My heart sank when I read 195 episodes. I'm barely watching it now, as it is.

Fatima: thanks for your comment about the lists. I had started character analyses weeks ago, but didn't continue. I think UA and Vivi would be better at it.

Nanette
 

IA Demetrios, I don't think either of them are gay . The jacuzzi scene was pretty innocent. Some just jumped to those conclusions because of the way Pedro treated Nadia and isn't interested in her sexually or romantically.
 

Terrific recap,

I'm not sure we have any concrete
evidence that either P or E is gay.
P could be asexual and as someone posted simply into money & power.
Or, he could even be afraid of women and true intimacy, but not attracted to men.

I thought that E was into Esmeralda in every sense of the word - definitely not gay.
 

One other thing,

Sometime ago, someone made the comment that Dimitrio did not have
the courage to kill Ale, and the other day someone made a similar remark about Adolfo not having the courage to kill the aggressor out in the woods.

On the contrary, I look to both of these scenes as the only courageous acts either one had done until that time. A coward kills; one with courage chooses another route and somehow taps into an inner sense of decency that he may not even have known he had.
 

Thank you, NM, for your delightful recap! When Gracie dropped the "te falta Jesus" (salad!) I knew my gal, NM, would catch it.

But thank you for commenting on the "Housewives' hair" ! I couldn't put my finger on it and was going to go with 80s-Xanadu-roller rink. I think the hair and make up are taking the restraint they've shown lately on Fina and turning it on poor Montsy. The days before she had that wispy, mullet-bangs, super straight hair that looked like a Joan Jett wannabe or maybe a Halloween wig!

Niecie, ITA re Tomas and Carlota. I've always seen it and as irksome as he is today, he could turn it around in one episode of eating crow. And he is light years ahead of the fish she's got on the line now!

Love love love your recaps, NM! Day brightener a every time!
 

I agree. Banana Fana Fofito may be a useless layabout, but refusing to shoot the guy, undoubtedly knowing this may have meant he himself would get shot or further abused, was probably the bravest thing he has ever done.

Shooting someone is rarely the courageous thing to do. It's either a mean thing, or a desperate move to thwart danger.

Refool, JL, and Dim (accidentally) have all done it, but not out of bravery, except maybe a little bit in JL's case.
 

Meanwhile, they straightened Virginia's hair so she looks more like Angelica. Her hair used to be very curly.
 

Julia: I wondered how they could keep that mass of curls so smooth and straight for the taping of those scenes. Must have been a nightmare for the hair stylists.
 

Calling Adolfo a coward was meant to wind him up. Adolfo is not so stupid he hasn't yet figured out that shooting that man would have condemned him forever.

I am not at all religious but when Graceless invokes the name of Jesus I want to slap her flat. i am waiting for both her children to do that.
 

Julia- Add Ale to the list of men who have shot someone.

Clara Fying- ITA about Alfie not being a coward. I said so in the comments the other day, and many others felt the same way. You're not alone on that one.

I don't think the issue is whether or not Pedro is gay (any mixed signals Basurto is sending him is because he's a suckup). The issue is that the writers/director are purposely toying with this question, and it makes you wonder why. Are they trying to justify Pedro's vileness by linking it to his sexuality? Are they just poking fun at Nadia (and Esme and Basurto) who assume just because a guy doesn't have sex with women, he must be gay? The writers haven't made it clear why or what they are implying about Pedro's sexual nature and what, if anything, it has to do with anything. I don't even know why they are choosing to go there. They've got plenty of episodes to unveil their intent, or make it up (if they have no clue what they're doing)


 

Between Ale (pride, anger and jealousy), Refugio (to save JL's life), JL (to save Ale's life), and Dim (accidentally and in self defense), Ale's shooting of a man was the least justified. It's only out of dumb luck (and because he's the protagonist) that the person he shot didn't die, unlike the others.
 

Vivi, I'm concerned about how this is unfolding specifically because whenever writers can't make firm decisions sufficiently in advance something usually goes awry in the story. If this series is #1 in Mexico as it is here I hope they don't get careless and assume that because we have leads with such great chemistry they can slack off when they can't make up their minds.
 

I've noticed something interesting about this show. When the human writers (as opposed to the Monkeys) are in charge, they PLAY FAIR.

They provide clues, they hint, they encourage us to speculate--

(Did Graciela have a baby? Boy or girl? Did it live or die? Natural death or murder? Is the baby a character we know? Is Pedro gay? Does he have a physical problem? A psychosexual one?)

-- but they don't actually lie to us. So it's good to step back every now and then and remind ourselves of what we actually KNOW as opposed to what we ASSUME or what the CHARACTERS ASSUME.

Nanette:
Thanks a bunch for stopping by. By the way, loved your lists yesterday.

Katy:
I was thinking of you when Graciela said it. [heehee]
And yeah, what was the deal with those wispy bangs the other day? (Maybe the hairdresser was indisposed.)

Julia:
Now that you mention it, Ginnie with straight hair looks a lot like her sister. Maybe they're going to use that with stupid EZ (or someone even lower on the foodchain) going after the wrong girl.

Clara Fying:
Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate your comments. I actually agree with just about everything you said.

JudyB:
De nada. I'll be interested to hear what you think about the book.
 

Omg I just reread my comments and my auto correct turned "salud!" Into "salad!" Lolol

Vivi, great points about Ale being the least justified in shooting. I had to chuckle when he said to Montsy and others: "You KNOW the kind of man I am" like that's a point in his favor! Maybe a "people can change" plea would be more effective.

Oh and thank you , UA, for identifying Miriam from AB as the new girl in town. I froze the frame of her in the avances but couldn't quite place her. You saved me nights of scratching my head.;)
 

I just had a chance to catch up on the comments posted while I was at work.

NovelaMaven, I got a kick out of your play on "Love in a Time of Cholera." Clever girl.

I wonder if we will ever learn what Pedro's problem is. He is a nasty piece of work. Maybe he is turned on by neither men nor women. Maybe power and money and cruelty are his turn ons. I just would like to find out what makes him tick tock. ...and why he still wears his hair in a 50s DA.

I didn't think that Mony was wearing a wig. Her hair is superfine and silky ,and when you curl that type of hair and tease it, it kind of looks like cotton candy. I also think that less is more in regards to the eye makeup.

All the weddings that we have seen so far have been so depressing. First, the wedding between Ale and Mony under bad circumstances...a purchased bride. Then, the pathetic shotgun wedding between Dim-I-Don'tawanna and poor Josefina. Next, the beautiful beach wedding of Angie and JL with the shadow caused by a dying bride and a groom who loved another. Finally, wedding #2 for Ale and Mony after which the groom is abruptly ripped from the devastated bride's arms and led away in handcuffs. Gah. Oh. my.
 

It always bugs me when I hear a familiar voice and have trouble ID'ing the actor/actress. If it takes more than a scene or two I just check IMDB.
 

Maybe Jesus is the name of the local Aguazul witch doctor who could sell Graceless's sister-in-law or children potions to cast the demons out of her.
 

Katy, I almost asked you about it, but then I just figured it was something the cool kids were saying (salad!)

hehehehehe
 

Dim and Fina's first fake wedding was at least strikingly beautiful, if depressing because we knew he was deceiving her.

Maybe Esme and Refu will have a nice happy wedding, if they manage to live long enough? Nadia and Victor, if they both survive and Pedro doesn't? Our best bet is Macario and Dominga. Maybe they can actually have a nice occasion.
 

Awww thanks NovelaMaven for your kind observation! Geez!

Susanlynn good point about the weddings and agree that Dimmie and Fina's was like a fine daguerreotype but knowing the groom was totally not feeling it spoiled that! I so would love a non-conflicted love story. I know Dominga and Mac had a little tiff the other day but who doesn't? They may be too minor to focus on though.

You know what? Even though some of our friends are getting on our nerves I kinda feel like a new person is an interloper. They'd better add something interesting to this story or it's going to be another storyline to drag us down. Could she be some "higher class" competition for Ale's affections besides Maria? Would they go there? Just hafta wait and see.
 

Dare we hope she is a psychiatrist?
 

Thanks for this exciting as well as provocative recap, NovelaMaven. Actually I read this shortly after you posted it and because I've come to know you so well through your talented writing knew exactly your intention, but even so, thought... Yikes, that's brave. I also understand your later substitution of words.

I don't have a clue of what the writers' motives for this, so far, ambiguous twist in the story, but there is no doubt that the intention is to have us speculate about Pedro's sexual orientation. One could look at this as step in the equal treatment of gays by allowing the villain to be both bad and gay. I don't recall having encountered any downright evil gays in any of the TNs that I've watched. Progress?

As for Adolfo, I said yesterday that his refusal to shoot that guy was an act of bravery... now if he could just summon the courage to help poor María.

Vivi, thanks for pointing out that Capitán Robledo is not quite so pure and admirable.

My favorite scene last night was Josefina's arrival with bags in hand... surely not what Graciela had in mind.

Carlos
 

Love your recaps - thank you!
Now, the most striking and hilarious outfit at the wedding was definitely Graciela's. I think she was thinking of the Queen of Spain from the waist up and a teeny bopper from the waist down. Very imaginative, but she certainly hasn't a grasp on cohesiveness!! The new girl in town will certainly shake up the dynamics now....hope it's worth the wait.
 

If the new girl in town is Gracie's child (speculation, only), then I don't think we have to worry about her being in competition with Mons for Ale :) Or, at least, we won't have to worry about it going too far.

Considering EZ was waving his gun in Alpo's face when he refused to kill the guy, I think he was very brave. I was a little disappointed, however, that he even thought about it. He did hold the gun on the guy for a few moments.
 

Carlos:

Wow. It's somewhat surprising to see the words "exciting" and "provocative" in the same sentence as "recap."

I considered that some people might misinterpret what I said and be offended, but I hoped that it would not be so. Ah well. As the great troubadour philosophers of our time have said, You Can't Always Get What You Want. In any case, I am very glad you understood my intention in my choice of the original wording. (This business of audience is tricky, isn't it.)

Thanks so much, Carlos.
 

Isabella:

I'm delighted that you enjoy my recaps. Thanks so much.

"Queen of Spain from the waist up and a teeny bopper from the waist down. "

Perfect!

Julia:

About the New Girl:

"Dare we hope she is a psychiatrist?"

Too funny!
 

NovelaMaven, I admit I was a bit jolted at first when I read that line, but then I reread it and understood it as a commentary on the distasteful employment of a writing device (if that is indeed what the writers are intending), not any kind of commentary on gay people.
 

Nanette, don't sell yourself short, amiga. Your lists are SO good. I, personally, would really enjoy your character analyses. Why don't you go ahead and post what you have?

NovelaMaven, thank you so much for your thoughts on my question re what the Mexican Audience thinks about Pedro and Basura. I am fascinated by the different cultural responses to what we are all seeing. I find this to be MOST informative!!

Mil gracias!

Fatima
 

Fatima: you're so sweet. I actually didn't get very far with it--nothing worth posting.
 

Nanette, well, I meant it!

What does your friend, Flaco, think of this TN? I think you posted his observations one time. I liked what he had to say. How fun that you can talk to some one face to face about our TN happenings!

Fatima
 

Nanette- Keep putting those thoughts down, and share them with us when you're ready.
 

Nanette, I second Vivi in DC's comment (which was implied in my reply back to you) :))

Fatima
 

Im sure Flaco likes it but i dont know him ,but this telenovela has been amazing for me,brilliant actors,wonderful performance,the dialogue. Much better then the overly dissapointing La Tempestad which is one of the worst telenovelas i have seen despite that i like Cesar Evora ,i couldnt bring myself to like/be impressed by but anyone else than Fulgencio ,Damian and Magdalena.
 

NovelaMaven, I didn't get here in a timely fashion to tell you this was another brilliant recap.
 

Demetrios, I always enjoy your comments.

Fatima :)
 

The story line I am most enjoying lately is the Dimi-Fina affair. Love all the subtle transformations being shown in Dimitrio and still eagerly awaiting Josefina's makeover. Please make that happen soonest. Que tortura!

The now constant introduction of Mexico's drug troubles into any and all novelas kind of bores me -- hate to say it -- but since these are largely plot point turners, oh well.

Have to admit that both Monse and Ale lost me -- and I've not yet really recovered -- with their totally self-absorbed and generally ridiculous invitation to Jose Luis and Angie to serve as Laurito's godparents. I felt so much for JL in that instance and feel it still. He's still bordering on the delusional when it comes to his great love but that was a total witch move on the Big Couple's part. And Angie was thoughtless in proposing something so humiliating and cruel to JL. Still -- adorable baby. Love his red red nursery.

Mexican weddings should be taken as the new standard north of the border. I really like how generally low-key they appear to be when contrasted with televised American weddings.

Thanks for the great recap as always. Real Housewives of New Jersey indeed except that Monse's one shoulder would have been one of 4 wedding costume changes and definitely considered the simplest and most modest of the numbers!

The only thing I miss about La Tempestad are the frequent and stunning location shots that just made me drool. So beautiful.

We get to see some of that with this one -- When we are not busy getting shots of the luxury pick-up and being told how great it is in both town and country. Pretty amusing. That pick-up is a true ham.

Daniela Castro is a trooper for allowing herself to be shown in one insanely awful outfit after another. Just go ahead and make her a floor length gown out of the green velvet curtains and be done with it!