About this book
Isabelo de los Reyes's "Singsing nang Dalagang Marmol" is a captivating historical fiction novel that weaves together romance and revolution in the Philippine struggle for independence. Set against the backdrop of the 1899 Philippine-American War, this compelling narrative follows a revolutionary soldier whose life becomes intertwined with the mysterious Liwayway of Baliwag, a young woman whose love becomes both his greatest hope and deepest torment.
Originally serialized in Tagalog in the newspaper "Ang Kapatid ng Bayan" in 1903, this groundbreaking work was later translated into Spanish by de los Reyes himself before being restored to Tagalog by translator Carlos B. Raimundo in 1912. The novel presents a nested narrative structure, where Colonel Puso shares his personal experiences and encounters with the unforgettable Liwayway, creating a poignant meditation on sacrifice, love, and national identity during a turbulent period of Philippine history.
De los Reyes masterfully captures the tension between personal desire and patriotic duty, exploring how the passion of love mirrors the fervor of revolution. Perfect for listeners interested in Philippine literature, historical fiction, and stories that illuminate the human cost of independence, this audiobook offers a window into early 20th-century Filipino consciousness and the enduring power of romantic idealism amid political upheaval.
