Richmond alumni unveils new book

Chanel Cleeton, who gained a BA in International Relations from Richmond, The American International University in London, has just had her latest book published.

When We Left Cuba is set in 1960s Florida, and tells the story of a young Cuban exile who risks her life and heart, to take back her country in this exhilarating historical novel. Having only just been released, it’s already hit the New York Times Bestseller List.

Chanel is the USA Today bestselling author of Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick Next Year in Havana. After leaving Richmond, Chanel went on to gain a master’s degree in Global Politics from the London School of Economics & Political Science. Chanel also received her Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law. She loves to travel and has lived in the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.

Praise for When We Left Cuba:

Instant New York Times Bestseller!

When We Left Cuba is equal parts passionate romance and political thriller. . . You won’t be able to put this one down.
Cosmopolitan

Both a hard-earned love story and a visceral account of history. Cleeton’s writing pulsates with passion and intimacy…. She’s long since established herself as a remarkable writer, but with When We Left Cuba, she’s written with a sublime force that keeps us tethered to her words.
The Washington Post

A thrilling story about love, loss, and what we will do to go home again. Utterly un-put-down-able.
PopSugar

A beautiful and utterly transporting novel.
Publisher’s Weekly

An edifying, entertaining read filled with adventure, suspense, history and romance, When We Left Cuba is a thought-provoking look at the ways in which politics can be intensely personal.
BookPage