"In the Time of the Butterflies" is a historical novel by Julia Alvarez that tells the story of the Mirabal sisters, known as the "Butterflies," who opposed the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo in the Dominican Republic during the 1950s. The novel explores their lives, struggles, and the impact of political repression on their families and society. The narrative is structured around the perspectives of the four sisters: Patria, Dedé, Minerva, and Maria Teresa. Each sister's unique experiences highlight themes of courage, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom, ultimately leading to their tragic fate as martyrs for the cause of justice.