Leia York is a young herbalist and certified midwife who is in mourning for her mother. Her work lacks its previous satisfaction since her mothers’ cancer could not be cured by Leias’ natural remedies nor by conventional medicine. Leia decides she needs a change and accepts an invitation from her former college professor and mentor to join him in the stunningly beautiful, yet treacherous Amazon rainforest to assist with cataloguing plants. She impulsively begins the journey hoping to leave her melancholy behind in Chicago.

Upon arrival deep in the Amazon rainforest where the village of the Matis tribe lies, Leia finds a vibrant culture that soon absorbs all her attention. Life with the Matis people is completely different from the modern Chicago life Leia left behind. The lives of the Matis seem pure, simple and joyous so Leia is eager to blend in to their culture.

Leia’s former professor, James works with Tanun who as the medicine man of the village has extensive knowledge of the healing properties of the plants of the Amazon. James taught him English so Tanun and Leia are able to share and exchange their skills. Though from different worlds, they have much in common. There is a compelling attraction between Leia and Tanun and this is their story.


Soon after Leia’s arrival she is chosen to go on an expedition that is critical to the Matis survival. Their quest is to find and reap the seeds of the blue amaryllis which is their most sacred plant. Their mission is filled with adventure and perilous at times.

The Blue Amaryllis is a singular tale that mingles romance and adventure with the very real facts about a fascinating way of life that exists today in the remote Amazon rainforest. Sonia De Leon masterfully crafts a story that has love, heartbreak, and adventure while exploring the very real social, ecological and political issues that threaten the survival of the uncontacted tribes of the Amazon rainforest. Ms. De Leon says,” My hope is that this fictional account of real events, will shine some light on the issues taking place in the Amazon. Maybe if we all care enough, our voices can make a difference for them." Her poignant story illustrates the love and honor that these indigenous Americans have for the earth and their complex culture of simple love and respect upon which we all could gain insight through reflection. This is truly an amazingly beautiful story.

I was provided with an e-copy of The Blue Amaryllis in exchange for an honest book review.