A fine way to introduce people to Neruda is this book: Lily of Peru by David C. Edmonds. It is a thriller and a love story. Woven throughout is the love of Neruda's strong, passionate poetry.
It is a hard-edged thriller that grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go until the very end.
Amazon Reviewer Emily Collins puts it best:
What I like about Lily of Peru is the poetry angle, especially the way Marisa "goes limp with desire when he reads Neruda to her." Here's just one example. They're on a train high in the Andes, danger all around, the professor worried the bad guys are closing in, when Marisa pulls out a copy of Neruda's Twenty Love Poems and asks him to read a verse for her. He does, and then the train enters a long, dark tunnel.
The author doesn't tell us what happens in that tunnel, but when they come out, minutes later, they're both breathless, straightening their clothing, and the professor makes the observation:
"One of the things I love about Marisa is that poetry always has that effect on her. Flowers won't do it. Neither will wine, music or expensive gifts. But get her talking poetry and there'd better be a bedroom nearby..."
Sigh! After reading this book you will want to read Neruda.
Thanks for this fun and fascinating interview. Loved the practical tips and insights Laura shared. Rumors of Water is one of my favorite books about writing—a pure pleasure to read.