"By the River Piedra... is a text that provokes reflection, which invites the reader to go into oneself, to analyze the relationship between fellow human beings and the connection we keep with the whole of the world."

--El Sol de Mexico

"The novel shines with a radiant brightness. Readers, whether believers or not, for a short time will find an escape from daily life where hope is normally a rare commodity."

--Biblioteca (France)

From Paulo Coelho, author of the international bestseller The Alchemist, comes a poignant, richly poetic story that reflects the depth of love and life. Rarely does adolescent love reach its full potential, but what happens when two young lovers reunite after eleven years? Time has transformed Pilar into a strong and independent woman, while her devoted childhood friend has grown into a handsome and charismatic spiritual leader. She has learned well how to bury her feelings.., and he has turned to religion as a refuge from his raging inner conflicts.

Now they are together once again, embarking on a journey fraught with difficulties, as long-buried demons of blame and resentment resurface after more than a decade. But in a small village in the French Pyrenees, by the waters of the River Piedra, a most special relationship will be reexamined in the dazzling light of some of life’s biggest questions.