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Violeta
欧宝娱乐 Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Historical Fiction (2022)The epic story of Violeta del Valle, a woman whose life spans one hundred years and bears witness to the greatest upheavals of the twentieth century.
Violeta comes into the world on a stormy day in 1920, the first girl in a family of five boisterous sons. From the start, her life will be marked by extraordinary events, for the ripples of the Great War are still being felt, even as the Spanish flu arrives on the shores of her South American homeland almost at the moment of her birth.
Through her father's prescience, the family will come through that crisis unscathed, only to face a new one as the Great Depression transforms the genteel city life she has known. Her family loses all and is forced to retreat to a wild and beautiful but remote part of the country. There, she will come of age, and her first suitor will come calling. . . .
She tells her story in the form of a letter to someone she loves above all others, recounting devastating heartbreak and passionate affairs, times of both poverty and wealth, terrible loss and immense joy. Her life will be shaped by some of the most important events of history: the fight for women's rights, the rise and fall of tyrants, and, ultimately, not one but two pandemics.
Told through the eyes of a woman whose unforgettable passion, determination, and sense of humor will carry her through a lifetime of upheaval, Isabel Allende once more brings us an epic that is both fiercely inspiring and deeply emotional.
Violeta comes into the world on a stormy day in 1920, the first girl in a family of five boisterous sons. From the start, her life will be marked by extraordinary events, for the ripples of the Great War are still being felt, even as the Spanish flu arrives on the shores of her South American homeland almost at the moment of her birth.
Through her father's prescience, the family will come through that crisis unscathed, only to face a new one as the Great Depression transforms the genteel city life she has known. Her family loses all and is forced to retreat to a wild and beautiful but remote part of the country. There, she will come of age, and her first suitor will come calling. . . .
She tells her story in the form of a letter to someone she loves above all others, recounting devastating heartbreak and passionate affairs, times of both poverty and wealth, terrible loss and immense joy. Her life will be shaped by some of the most important events of history: the fight for women's rights, the rise and fall of tyrants, and, ultimately, not one but two pandemics.
Told through the eyes of a woman whose unforgettable passion, determination, and sense of humor will carry her through a lifetime of upheaval, Isabel Allende once more brings us an epic that is both fiercely inspiring and deeply emotional.
322 pages, Paperback
First published January 25, 2022
8,120 people are currently reading
189k people want to read
About the author
Isabel Allende
216听books42.7k听followersIsabel Allende Llona is a Chilean-American novelist. Allende, who writes in the "magic realism" tradition, is considered one of the first successful women novelists in Latin America. She has written novels based in part on her own experiences, often focusing on the experiences of women, weaving myth and realism together. She has lectured and done extensive book tours and has taught literature at several US colleges. She currently resides in California with her husband. Allende adopted U.S. citizenship in 2003.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 10,889 reviews
January 14, 2022
It's been a long time since I've read an novel, but I do recall loving back in the day. My memory of that book is nothing at all like my experience with .
The best way I can describe this book is that it narrates events without passion or urgency, in an unnamed country, through the eyes of a narrator we never come to know. I felt extremely distanced from the story's events throughout the whole book. Though tragedy strikes often-- suicide, life-or-death medical emergencies, to name a couple --I felt it was told in such a cold, detached way, almost as if the narrator was reading from a textbook, not describing the events that befell her own family.
Actually, that paragraph I just wrote is telling. I cannot help myself referring to Violeta as simply "the narrator" because that is how she came across. I often find books where an elderly person recounts their life story very effective, but something about it here made it difficult to ever warm to the characters or feel attached to their circumstances.
The story is that of 100-year-old Violeta's life, written for her grandson. It takes us from her childhood raised by an Irish governess somewhere in South America (never said where but contains oblique references to pandemics and military takeovers) to her marriage, an abusive relationship and the arrival of her two children.
Though the suicide of one's father, a whirlwind romance that turns abusive, and a child with a drug addiction are all horrific things for a person to experience, Violeta's narrative voice remains flat and unmoving from beginning to end.
Anyone got better Allende recommendations for me than this one?
The best way I can describe this book is that it narrates events without passion or urgency, in an unnamed country, through the eyes of a narrator we never come to know. I felt extremely distanced from the story's events throughout the whole book. Though tragedy strikes often-- suicide, life-or-death medical emergencies, to name a couple --I felt it was told in such a cold, detached way, almost as if the narrator was reading from a textbook, not describing the events that befell her own family.
Actually, that paragraph I just wrote is telling. I cannot help myself referring to Violeta as simply "the narrator" because that is how she came across. I often find books where an elderly person recounts their life story very effective, but something about it here made it difficult to ever warm to the characters or feel attached to their circumstances.
The story is that of 100-year-old Violeta's life, written for her grandson. It takes us from her childhood raised by an Irish governess somewhere in South America (never said where but contains oblique references to pandemics and military takeovers) to her marriage, an abusive relationship and the arrival of her two children.
Though the suicide of one's father, a whirlwind romance that turns abusive, and a child with a drug addiction are all horrific things for a person to experience, Violeta's narrative voice remains flat and unmoving from beginning to end.
Anyone got better Allende recommendations for me than this one?
August 21, 2022
Consequential
Isabel Allende鈥檚 latest novel is spellbinding and beautifully written with the authentic touch of a memoir. In 2020, in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic, Violeta del Valle, now 100 years old and in her last days, writes to her grandson Camilo recounting her life story. Born in Chile in 1920 during the Spanish Flu pandemic, there is a fitting inevitability that a century of war, depression, struggle, discrimination, evil, selflessness, love, loss, illness, joy, and accomplishment should end at another watershed moment of global tragedy. Violeta has lived through many joyful and horrific moments, and the complex nature of life is vividly portrayed through her and those she encounters. A life exquisitely captured by the events of her country and Violeta鈥檚 journey with family and friends. While Chile is never mentioned by name, the geography, location descriptions, and events reflect the historical path of Chile.
The story weaves compelling characters with the history of tumultuous times in Chile, through military coups, authoritarian leadership, revolts, boom and bust economic cycles, and dubious connections to spies, criminals and drug cartels. Violeta spells out the relationships with her children, brothers, aunts, uncles, friends, neighbours and the men in her life. Some partners bring her joy, others pain and abuse, but they shape this fascinating woman. Being an astute businesswoman, she overcame commercial issues and discrimination that prevented her from directly owning her business or bank account. She plotted her course with her eldest brother as they grew a successful business keeping the details hidden from the authorities and others.
Isabel Allende is masterful at her characterisation, absorbing the related details while never letting the story鈥檚 momentum ponder into over-detail. The significant events and range of characters keep this epic story engaging from beginning to end.
To capture a thought in my mind using a famous and appropriate verse:
Isabel Allende鈥檚 latest novel is spellbinding and beautifully written with the authentic touch of a memoir. In 2020, in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic, Violeta del Valle, now 100 years old and in her last days, writes to her grandson Camilo recounting her life story. Born in Chile in 1920 during the Spanish Flu pandemic, there is a fitting inevitability that a century of war, depression, struggle, discrimination, evil, selflessness, love, loss, illness, joy, and accomplishment should end at another watershed moment of global tragedy. Violeta has lived through many joyful and horrific moments, and the complex nature of life is vividly portrayed through her and those she encounters. A life exquisitely captured by the events of her country and Violeta鈥檚 journey with family and friends. While Chile is never mentioned by name, the geography, location descriptions, and events reflect the historical path of Chile.
The story weaves compelling characters with the history of tumultuous times in Chile, through military coups, authoritarian leadership, revolts, boom and bust economic cycles, and dubious connections to spies, criminals and drug cartels. Violeta spells out the relationships with her children, brothers, aunts, uncles, friends, neighbours and the men in her life. Some partners bring her joy, others pain and abuse, but they shape this fascinating woman. Being an astute businesswoman, she overcame commercial issues and discrimination that prevented her from directly owning her business or bank account. She plotted her course with her eldest brother as they grew a successful business keeping the details hidden from the authorities and others.
Isabel Allende is masterful at her characterisation, absorbing the related details while never letting the story鈥檚 momentum ponder into over-detail. The significant events and range of characters keep this epic story engaging from beginning to end.
To capture a thought in my mind using a famous and appropriate verse:
She loved, laughed and cried.A fabulously entertaining story that I would highly recommend, and I want to thank my Buddy Ceecee for recommending this to me in glowing terms - you are on point as usual. I also want to thank Bloomsbury Publishing, Random House Publishing Group 鈥� Ballantine, and NetGalley for providing a free ARC in return for an honest review.
She had her fill, her share of losing
And now, as tears subside
She finds it all so amusing
To think she did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way
Oh no, no, not her
She did it her way
January 11, 2022
4.5
If I didn鈥檛 know better, I would have thought I was reading a memoir; it鈥檚 so intimate and detailed. But then, it鈥檚 an Isabel Allende novel and I wasn鈥檛 surprised to find the heart and soul of her main character, Violeta del Valle in these pages, seeming to me like a real person.
With the back drop of historical events and politics from 1920 - 2020, Violeta鈥檚 100 years take us from one pandemic to another (although this current one briefly touched on - thankfully), from an unnamed country in South America , from city to rural locality, to Cuba, Miami, Los Angeles, but always back to her home country.
It鈥檚 the story of a life, told in a letter to a grandson, a story of family, family by blood and family by chance, a story of riches and poverty, grief and joy, lust and passion and mostly love. An absolute must read for fans of Allende .
I received an advanced copy of this book from Random House/Ballantine through NetGalley.
If I didn鈥檛 know better, I would have thought I was reading a memoir; it鈥檚 so intimate and detailed. But then, it鈥檚 an Isabel Allende novel and I wasn鈥檛 surprised to find the heart and soul of her main character, Violeta del Valle in these pages, seeming to me like a real person.
With the back drop of historical events and politics from 1920 - 2020, Violeta鈥檚 100 years take us from one pandemic to another (although this current one briefly touched on - thankfully), from an unnamed country in South America , from city to rural locality, to Cuba, Miami, Los Angeles, but always back to her home country.
It鈥檚 the story of a life, told in a letter to a grandson, a story of family, family by blood and family by chance, a story of riches and poverty, grief and joy, lust and passion and mostly love. An absolute must read for fans of Allende .
I received an advanced copy of this book from Random House/Ballantine through NetGalley.
August 10, 2021
Beautiful and mesmerizing!!!
This is a soul portrait of a family and friendships鈥�.(aging and memories)鈥�
鈥�.a deep understanding of the bonds that hold us together.
Gorgeously written, as Isabell Allende can do miraculously!
I loved my time spent with this novel.
Full review to follow in a day or two.
I鈥檓 Back!
I enjoyed this book thoroughly!!! When asked 鈥渨ho are your favorite authors?鈥濃€�.Isabel Allende is always one of them.
I鈥檝e gone out of my way to meet her three times at book readings here in the Bay Area. Her book readings are so popular - attendees arrive an hour early to reserve their chair - or risk standing either in the far back of the room - or in some cases - outside the bookstore listening in.
I could sit and listen to her talk for hours.
Isabel Allende, Chilean author and journalist was born in 1942 in Lima, Peru. She is a tiny gorgeous spitfire鈥�..
鈥�..a wise - bright woman and skillful diligent writer.
She鈥檚 written over 20 books that have been translated into more than 35 languages. For those who can read her books in Spanish - are truly blessed. I must read them in English - and still feel blessed.
I鈥檝e enjoyed Allende鈥檚 early books 鈥榓nd鈥� her later books -(some readers haven鈥檛 liked some of her more relatively recent books, expressing 鈥渟he鈥檚 back鈥� when she writes one they like 鈥榓gain鈥�)鈥�.
but honestly鈥�
I like them all: fiction, oldies, newbies, non fiction (3 鈥榓mazing鈥� memoirs)鈥�.I鈥檓 just not picky when it comes to one of my favorite human beings shorter than I am鈥�.
鈥�..from her magical realism stories, fantasy and myths鈥� to her 鈥榬ealistic鈥� books 鈥� I鈥檓 a reader who equally enjoys melting into 鈥榓nything Isabel Allende writes.
So鈥�.ABOUT 鈥淰ioleta鈥濃€�..
鈥�..Violeta Del Valle has lived a hundred years. 鈥淲here did all the years go?鈥�
This is 鈥榚xactly鈥� the type of book I was sooo looking forward to - (an epic story spanning personal and global history over a hundred years).
My aunt will be 90 years old next month and the family is planning a birthday celebration- filled with photo family slides - and 90 years of storytelling - a family gathering feast of love for the greatest Auntie Jeanne in the world.
So鈥�.I had some very direct interest to read Violeta鈥檚 story
Isabel Allende begins at the beginning (a once upon a time type 鈥榝eeling鈥�)鈥�..we feel excited to read on >>>>>>>
Violeta was born in 1920, South America [The Camellia House is where Violeta spent her childhood - for which we will learn a lot about her personality- temperament/naturally rebellious - her family, and Violeta鈥檚 governess, Miss Josephine Taylor 鈥� who eventually tamed Violeta鈥檚 childhood sassy inappropriate public behaviors.
It seems no accident that Violeta was a born on a stormy day鈥︹€�( matched her natural-stormy-disposition).
Violeta was the first girl born after five brothers. [every baby girl born into a family of all brothers - already knows how powerful and complex that can be].
It was no different for Violeta. The journey we take with her is one fascinating enjoyable story.
Soon after her birth 鈥� we follow The Great War, The Spanish Flu, and The Great Depression.
That鈥檚 not all!!
Lots more to rock&roll our happy reading boats!
Violeta tells her story - in the form of a letter - to Camilo - her grandson.
Her stories are endless.
Starting with her own complex-aristocratic family - from the capital - to living on a farm with the Rivas family, (a modest, respected family in the area)鈥�.
鈥ucinda and Abel Rivas were the parents of the governess, Miss Taylor, who were kind to host the De Valle family鈥�.when they needed to 鈥榚xile鈥� 鈥�.[readers will learn - why - and 鈥榳hat happened鈥� is interesting and compelling.
鈥e learn about the scandalous tale that ruin Violeta鈥檚 father - Arsenio Del Valle鈥檚 reputation.
鈥濒耻蝉鈥�..
鈥ioleta experienced a devastating shock and loss as a child 鈥�.that will stay with her for the rest of her life.
... We get to know several wonderful supporting characters and 'their' challenges.
鈥rom wealth to poverty鈥�
鈥urricane-pandemic- Vietnam war - drugs, music, the sexual revolution, self discovery, horseback riding, Woodstock鈥� gangsters and schemers and spies in Miami鈥�
鈥isky behaviors (Violeta鈥檚 daughter- Nahuel- kinda took after her mother?/!/?!鈥�..only it manifested a little differently because modern times 鈥榳ere鈥� different)
鈥oming of age鈥or both Violeta and her children
鈥ove relationships- marriage - children - divorce- chaos - joy - growth 鈥�.a private detective named Roy Cooper - (an ex-co -who saved Violeta鈥檚 daughter) - secrets - economic ruin - global financial catastrophe - fraud - suicide- affairs - panhandling - communes -alligator infected swamps - a Jewish psychiatrist - and an array of many more humanizing experiential formidable years of one woman who lived long enough to pass on her stories.
A few appetizer excerpts:
Here goes:
NOTE: none of the excerpts would be considered spoilers.
鈥淭he global financial debacle paralyzed their country. They didn鈥檛 know it yet, but they鈥檇 be a nation most greatly affected by the crisis, because the exportation system that sustained them would collapse.
Crime rate increased鈥� homelessness, unemployment, soup kitchens鈥�
The capital looked like a city at war. Students went on strike, as did teachers, doctors, engineers, lawyers and other unions are united by single demand for the general to step down.
The general, barricaded himself in his office. He couldn鈥檛 believe that is like had been turned on its head overnight, and order the police to continue caring out their duty鈥�.
鈥淚 quickly lost the innocence that my family had so carefully guarded throughout my childhood. Mr. and Mrs. Rivas did not attempt to shield me from the realities of alcoholism, abused women and children, knife fights, rape, and incest. Life here was very different from the bucolic ideal of a rural existence we鈥檇 imagined when we first arrived鈥�.
鈥淭he reality is that everyone is responsible for their own life. We鈥檙e dealt certain cards at birth, and we play our hand; some of us lose, but others may play skillfully from the same bad hand and triumph鈥�.
鈥淎ll lives are banal and we are all mediocre鈥�.
I tell ya鈥�.I love our pint-size talented storytelling.
Isabel Allende鈥檚 literary contributions are triumphant!
Totally enjoyed this novel >>> and honest --there is so much more I haven't shared-than did! I highly recommend it!
Thank you Random House Publishing, Netgalley, and Isabel Allende!
This is a soul portrait of a family and friendships鈥�.(aging and memories)鈥�
鈥�.a deep understanding of the bonds that hold us together.
Gorgeously written, as Isabell Allende can do miraculously!
I loved my time spent with this novel.
Full review to follow in a day or two.
I鈥檓 Back!
I enjoyed this book thoroughly!!! When asked 鈥渨ho are your favorite authors?鈥濃€�.Isabel Allende is always one of them.
I鈥檝e gone out of my way to meet her three times at book readings here in the Bay Area. Her book readings are so popular - attendees arrive an hour early to reserve their chair - or risk standing either in the far back of the room - or in some cases - outside the bookstore listening in.
I could sit and listen to her talk for hours.
Isabel Allende, Chilean author and journalist was born in 1942 in Lima, Peru. She is a tiny gorgeous spitfire鈥�..
鈥�..a wise - bright woman and skillful diligent writer.
She鈥檚 written over 20 books that have been translated into more than 35 languages. For those who can read her books in Spanish - are truly blessed. I must read them in English - and still feel blessed.
I鈥檝e enjoyed Allende鈥檚 early books 鈥榓nd鈥� her later books -(some readers haven鈥檛 liked some of her more relatively recent books, expressing 鈥渟he鈥檚 back鈥� when she writes one they like 鈥榓gain鈥�)鈥�.
but honestly鈥�
I like them all: fiction, oldies, newbies, non fiction (3 鈥榓mazing鈥� memoirs)鈥�.I鈥檓 just not picky when it comes to one of my favorite human beings shorter than I am鈥�.
鈥�..from her magical realism stories, fantasy and myths鈥� to her 鈥榬ealistic鈥� books 鈥� I鈥檓 a reader who equally enjoys melting into 鈥榓nything Isabel Allende writes.
So鈥�.ABOUT 鈥淰ioleta鈥濃€�..
鈥�..Violeta Del Valle has lived a hundred years. 鈥淲here did all the years go?鈥�
This is 鈥榚xactly鈥� the type of book I was sooo looking forward to - (an epic story spanning personal and global history over a hundred years).
My aunt will be 90 years old next month and the family is planning a birthday celebration- filled with photo family slides - and 90 years of storytelling - a family gathering feast of love for the greatest Auntie Jeanne in the world.
So鈥�.I had some very direct interest to read Violeta鈥檚 story
Isabel Allende begins at the beginning (a once upon a time type 鈥榝eeling鈥�)鈥�..we feel excited to read on >>>>>>>
Violeta was born in 1920, South America [The Camellia House is where Violeta spent her childhood - for which we will learn a lot about her personality- temperament/naturally rebellious - her family, and Violeta鈥檚 governess, Miss Josephine Taylor 鈥� who eventually tamed Violeta鈥檚 childhood sassy inappropriate public behaviors.
It seems no accident that Violeta was a born on a stormy day鈥︹€�( matched her natural-stormy-disposition).
Violeta was the first girl born after five brothers. [every baby girl born into a family of all brothers - already knows how powerful and complex that can be].
It was no different for Violeta. The journey we take with her is one fascinating enjoyable story.
Soon after her birth 鈥� we follow The Great War, The Spanish Flu, and The Great Depression.
That鈥檚 not all!!
Lots more to rock&roll our happy reading boats!
Violeta tells her story - in the form of a letter - to Camilo - her grandson.
Her stories are endless.
Starting with her own complex-aristocratic family - from the capital - to living on a farm with the Rivas family, (a modest, respected family in the area)鈥�.
鈥ucinda and Abel Rivas were the parents of the governess, Miss Taylor, who were kind to host the De Valle family鈥�.when they needed to 鈥榚xile鈥� 鈥�.[readers will learn - why - and 鈥榳hat happened鈥� is interesting and compelling.
鈥e learn about the scandalous tale that ruin Violeta鈥檚 father - Arsenio Del Valle鈥檚 reputation.
鈥濒耻蝉鈥�..
鈥ioleta experienced a devastating shock and loss as a child 鈥�.that will stay with her for the rest of her life.
... We get to know several wonderful supporting characters and 'their' challenges.
鈥rom wealth to poverty鈥�
鈥urricane-pandemic- Vietnam war - drugs, music, the sexual revolution, self discovery, horseback riding, Woodstock鈥� gangsters and schemers and spies in Miami鈥�
鈥isky behaviors (Violeta鈥檚 daughter- Nahuel- kinda took after her mother?/!/?!鈥�..only it manifested a little differently because modern times 鈥榳ere鈥� different)
鈥oming of age鈥or both Violeta and her children
鈥ove relationships- marriage - children - divorce- chaos - joy - growth 鈥�.a private detective named Roy Cooper - (an ex-co -who saved Violeta鈥檚 daughter) - secrets - economic ruin - global financial catastrophe - fraud - suicide- affairs - panhandling - communes -alligator infected swamps - a Jewish psychiatrist - and an array of many more humanizing experiential formidable years of one woman who lived long enough to pass on her stories.
A few appetizer excerpts:
Here goes:
NOTE: none of the excerpts would be considered spoilers.
鈥淭he global financial debacle paralyzed their country. They didn鈥檛 know it yet, but they鈥檇 be a nation most greatly affected by the crisis, because the exportation system that sustained them would collapse.
Crime rate increased鈥� homelessness, unemployment, soup kitchens鈥�
The capital looked like a city at war. Students went on strike, as did teachers, doctors, engineers, lawyers and other unions are united by single demand for the general to step down.
The general, barricaded himself in his office. He couldn鈥檛 believe that is like had been turned on its head overnight, and order the police to continue caring out their duty鈥�.
鈥淚 quickly lost the innocence that my family had so carefully guarded throughout my childhood. Mr. and Mrs. Rivas did not attempt to shield me from the realities of alcoholism, abused women and children, knife fights, rape, and incest. Life here was very different from the bucolic ideal of a rural existence we鈥檇 imagined when we first arrived鈥�.
鈥淭he reality is that everyone is responsible for their own life. We鈥檙e dealt certain cards at birth, and we play our hand; some of us lose, but others may play skillfully from the same bad hand and triumph鈥�.
鈥淎ll lives are banal and we are all mediocre鈥�.
I tell ya鈥�.I love our pint-size talented storytelling.
Isabel Allende鈥檚 literary contributions are triumphant!
Totally enjoyed this novel >>> and honest --there is so much more I haven't shared-than did! I highly recommend it!
Thank you Random House Publishing, Netgalley, and Isabel Allende!
June 2, 2022
Happy pub day to this marvelous historical fiction 馃コ馃嵕馃巿
Since I鈥檝e read House of Spirits I became a true fan of this brilliant author and her well written, mind spinning historical novels with magical realism vibes and realistic chapters based on true events.
Violeta is another heartfelt, intense story, taking us a long journey which lasts 100 years: giving a mind blowing, sentimental, heartbreaking, compelling life story of Violeta Del Valle. It鈥檚 focused on a woman鈥檚 lifetime in South America: how her challenging experiences, her relationship with her own family, her surroundings shaped her and recreated her.
The story is told by the letters written to her grandson, starting from 1920鈥檚 to the present time, giving photographic, realistic descriptions about the places, cultures, traditions, customs so impeccably. You truly feel like you are transported to another time line, another continent, country, city and you may visualize everything the author tell you from her vivid, detailed, colorful perspective.
Violeta comes to earth as the first daughter of a family of five very animated sons. It鈥檚 an epic history lesson giving snippets from very effective events shaped the future lives of humanity including Great War, Spanish Flu and Great Depression.
We observe the loves, losses, beliefs, family dynamics, dreams of a woman in 10 decades.
It was heart wrenching, filled with complex emotions and well developed time travel you shouldn鈥檛 dare to miss as like any other great Allende novels!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/ Ballantine Books for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Since I鈥檝e read House of Spirits I became a true fan of this brilliant author and her well written, mind spinning historical novels with magical realism vibes and realistic chapters based on true events.
Violeta is another heartfelt, intense story, taking us a long journey which lasts 100 years: giving a mind blowing, sentimental, heartbreaking, compelling life story of Violeta Del Valle. It鈥檚 focused on a woman鈥檚 lifetime in South America: how her challenging experiences, her relationship with her own family, her surroundings shaped her and recreated her.
The story is told by the letters written to her grandson, starting from 1920鈥檚 to the present time, giving photographic, realistic descriptions about the places, cultures, traditions, customs so impeccably. You truly feel like you are transported to another time line, another continent, country, city and you may visualize everything the author tell you from her vivid, detailed, colorful perspective.
Violeta comes to earth as the first daughter of a family of five very animated sons. It鈥檚 an epic history lesson giving snippets from very effective events shaped the future lives of humanity including Great War, Spanish Flu and Great Depression.
We observe the loves, losses, beliefs, family dynamics, dreams of a woman in 10 decades.
It was heart wrenching, filled with complex emotions and well developed time travel you shouldn鈥檛 dare to miss as like any other great Allende novels!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/ Ballantine Books for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
September 7, 2022
5 vibrant stars for 100 colourful years that defined Violeta鈥檚 life. A story of love, tragedy, abuse and survival that is interwoven with the real historical events in South America.
Over the years Violeta sees many of her relationships change as people come and go in her life and the woman who once grew up in a wealthy home faced financial ruin, poverty and hardship. However, core to the story was the perpetual cycle of hate and lust in Violeta's own marriage that made this story so memorable, as we are led through an obscene pattern of attraction and rejection, and passion with rage. A complex tale that delivers on everything and candidly told in the form of letters, from Violeta to her grandson Camilo, making this a very readable story.
There is richness to the themes, poignancy to the story, tragedy experienced by many of the characters and beauty in the writing. Another fabulous book by Isabelle Allende.
The Plot
鈥淚 was born in 1920, during the influenza pandemic, and I鈥檓 going to die in 2020, during the outbreak of coronavirus. What an elegant name for such a terrible scourge.鈥�
Violeta鈥檚 story is one of survival, through the Spanish flu pandemic, only to tell her story during the current pandemic. It was also a story of endurance through so much hardship and political unrest and turmoil where government officials and death squads acted with absolute impunity. However Violeta was a woman who despite the changing Political and economic environment managed to survive despite living in a tumultuous marriage which often saw her skate perilously close to danger with her husband鈥檚 mafia type connections and abusive nature.
The story explores her relationships with her son and daughter, her brother a lifelong supporter and ally of Violeta. However central to the story is her passionate and often violent relationship with her husband, as they spent much of their time together in a perpetual cycle of love and hate. More importantly for me it is a story of personal growth and sacrifice and learning to play the best game with the cards you are dealt.
鈥淭he reality is that everyone is responsible for their own life. We鈥檙e dealt certain cards at birth, and we play our hand; some of us lose, but others may play skilfully from the same bad hand and triumph. Our cards determine who we are: age, gender, race, family, nationality, etc., and we can鈥檛 change them, only play them to the best of our abilities. The game is marked by challenges and chances, strategizing and cheating.鈥�
Review and Comments
Allende鈥檚 stories draw on deep knowledge of the historical period that makes this story feel authentic while the candid way the story is written allows the reader to identify with the characters, the story, and the dark themes very easily. So, whilst the story and themes are intense, they never feel heavy.
My only criticism would be the striking similarities between this and the House of the Spirits, and while both are excellent stories, I would like more variation in the storyline and not the familiar pattern of abused women at the hands of a popular dominant male character.
Nevertheless, this is such an emotionally charged and sweeping story with epic qualities to the writing, the plot, and historical backdrop.
Immersive, moving and insightful. A perfect blend of fact and fiction and of the ordinary and extraordinary events and people that shape Violeta鈥檚 life.
One of my favourite authors and a highly recommended book.
Over the years Violeta sees many of her relationships change as people come and go in her life and the woman who once grew up in a wealthy home faced financial ruin, poverty and hardship. However, core to the story was the perpetual cycle of hate and lust in Violeta's own marriage that made this story so memorable, as we are led through an obscene pattern of attraction and rejection, and passion with rage. A complex tale that delivers on everything and candidly told in the form of letters, from Violeta to her grandson Camilo, making this a very readable story.
There is richness to the themes, poignancy to the story, tragedy experienced by many of the characters and beauty in the writing. Another fabulous book by Isabelle Allende.
The Plot
鈥淚 was born in 1920, during the influenza pandemic, and I鈥檓 going to die in 2020, during the outbreak of coronavirus. What an elegant name for such a terrible scourge.鈥�
Violeta鈥檚 story is one of survival, through the Spanish flu pandemic, only to tell her story during the current pandemic. It was also a story of endurance through so much hardship and political unrest and turmoil where government officials and death squads acted with absolute impunity. However Violeta was a woman who despite the changing Political and economic environment managed to survive despite living in a tumultuous marriage which often saw her skate perilously close to danger with her husband鈥檚 mafia type connections and abusive nature.
The story explores her relationships with her son and daughter, her brother a lifelong supporter and ally of Violeta. However central to the story is her passionate and often violent relationship with her husband, as they spent much of their time together in a perpetual cycle of love and hate. More importantly for me it is a story of personal growth and sacrifice and learning to play the best game with the cards you are dealt.
鈥淭he reality is that everyone is responsible for their own life. We鈥檙e dealt certain cards at birth, and we play our hand; some of us lose, but others may play skilfully from the same bad hand and triumph. Our cards determine who we are: age, gender, race, family, nationality, etc., and we can鈥檛 change them, only play them to the best of our abilities. The game is marked by challenges and chances, strategizing and cheating.鈥�
Review and Comments
Allende鈥檚 stories draw on deep knowledge of the historical period that makes this story feel authentic while the candid way the story is written allows the reader to identify with the characters, the story, and the dark themes very easily. So, whilst the story and themes are intense, they never feel heavy.
My only criticism would be the striking similarities between this and the House of the Spirits, and while both are excellent stories, I would like more variation in the storyline and not the familiar pattern of abused women at the hands of a popular dominant male character.
Nevertheless, this is such an emotionally charged and sweeping story with epic qualities to the writing, the plot, and historical backdrop.
Immersive, moving and insightful. A perfect blend of fact and fiction and of the ordinary and extraordinary events and people that shape Violeta鈥檚 life.
One of my favourite authors and a highly recommended book.
November 13, 2021
4 solid stars for book of historical fiction, set in Chile, from 1920 until 2020. It is a series of letters by a grandmother to her grown grandson. Violeta was born during the Spanish flu epidemic in 1920. She lives to be 100 and dies of old age during the coronavirus epidemic.
She recounts her life story for her grandson, who is now a Jesuit priest. She has seen much turbulence in her life--WWII, a military coup, dictatorship, murder of friends and family, divorce, being abused for decades by her lover and rebellious children.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it to fans of the author, literary fiction and historical fiction. The descriptions of life in Chile are vivid. This is the first book that I have read by Isabel Allende.
Two quotes:
Home birth in 1920 Chile: "Under my Aunt Pilar's direction, Torito, the boy we employed for a wide range of chores, climbed a ladder to hang a labor sling from two steel hooks that he himself had installed in the ceiling. My mother, kneeling in her nightdress, each hand pulling on a strap, pushed for what felt like an eternity, cursing like a pirate, using words she'd never utter under normal circumstances. My Aunt Pia, crouched between her legs, waited to receive the newborn baby before he could fall to the floor."
English governess: "She had straw-like blond hair, and that skin as transparent as rice paper, that girls from cold countries sometimes have, which over time become spotted and mercilessly wrinkled."
Thank You Isabel Allende and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Ballantine Books, for sending me this ebook through NetGalley.
Pub. date Jan. 25, 2022
She recounts her life story for her grandson, who is now a Jesuit priest. She has seen much turbulence in her life--WWII, a military coup, dictatorship, murder of friends and family, divorce, being abused for decades by her lover and rebellious children.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it to fans of the author, literary fiction and historical fiction. The descriptions of life in Chile are vivid. This is the first book that I have read by Isabel Allende.
Two quotes:
Home birth in 1920 Chile: "Under my Aunt Pilar's direction, Torito, the boy we employed for a wide range of chores, climbed a ladder to hang a labor sling from two steel hooks that he himself had installed in the ceiling. My mother, kneeling in her nightdress, each hand pulling on a strap, pushed for what felt like an eternity, cursing like a pirate, using words she'd never utter under normal circumstances. My Aunt Pia, crouched between her legs, waited to receive the newborn baby before he could fall to the floor."
English governess: "She had straw-like blond hair, and that skin as transparent as rice paper, that girls from cold countries sometimes have, which over time become spotted and mercilessly wrinkled."
Thank You Isabel Allende and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Ballantine Books, for sending me this ebook through NetGalley.
Pub. date Jan. 25, 2022
January 25, 2022
This was my first book by Isabel Allende and she made me cry like a baby. I didn't expect to have such an emotional reaction to this novel, but I did and it was worth every single tear. I was provided an advance copy of this title; however, all thoughts are my own.
Violeta is a story that travels through the lifetime of the character Violeta. It begins with her birth in South America in 1920 just as the Spanish Flu hits. While her family is unaffected by it, things change as the world is brought to its knees by the Great Depression. It is starting here that Violeta experiences such loss and change. Her family moves to a more isolated area where she grows up and takes readers on the journey through her life.
Each part of this book is written in letter format to someone that Violeta loves greatly. While I won't say who that is here because I don't want to spoil the novel, it definitely makes for an intriguing story that comes full circle. One of the things that made me fall in love with this novel was this quiet, patient writing that I got on each page. It travels through a 100 years of time, but I was able to soak up every event with such clarity and precision. It almost felt as though Violeta was writing the letters to me. There is a paralleling of events that take place in Violeta's life. Though readers spend time learning about the men she loves, her children, people within her community, Allende is also careful in covering the major political events that occurred at the same time including the women's suffrage movement, the Cuban revolution, the Great Depression, the Chilean dictatorship, and more. As someone who is a huge history nerd, I appreciated getting that history within the context of the story.
I think the beauty of this novel is really the idea that all things come full circle. Readers learn so much about Violeta's life, the good, the bad, and the ugly. At the beginning of the novel, she is writing from 2020 during the mist of the COVID pandemic. To see her journey through those 100 years was such a privilege for me as a reader. She evolves as many of us do from a child who has everything to one who had to start over. She has a fiery personality and never seems to do anything whether it's a general task or relationship without passion. Most of all she's human. Like her triumphs, Violeta also acknowledges her short comings. It is a beautiful tale of a woman who decided to live her life on her own terms and not solely on the expectations of others. I connected with this in so many ways. The beauty and grace in the writing is sure to appeal to many readers. If you haven't considered picking this up be sure to add it to your TBR.
Violeta is a story that travels through the lifetime of the character Violeta. It begins with her birth in South America in 1920 just as the Spanish Flu hits. While her family is unaffected by it, things change as the world is brought to its knees by the Great Depression. It is starting here that Violeta experiences such loss and change. Her family moves to a more isolated area where she grows up and takes readers on the journey through her life.
Each part of this book is written in letter format to someone that Violeta loves greatly. While I won't say who that is here because I don't want to spoil the novel, it definitely makes for an intriguing story that comes full circle. One of the things that made me fall in love with this novel was this quiet, patient writing that I got on each page. It travels through a 100 years of time, but I was able to soak up every event with such clarity and precision. It almost felt as though Violeta was writing the letters to me. There is a paralleling of events that take place in Violeta's life. Though readers spend time learning about the men she loves, her children, people within her community, Allende is also careful in covering the major political events that occurred at the same time including the women's suffrage movement, the Cuban revolution, the Great Depression, the Chilean dictatorship, and more. As someone who is a huge history nerd, I appreciated getting that history within the context of the story.
I think the beauty of this novel is really the idea that all things come full circle. Readers learn so much about Violeta's life, the good, the bad, and the ugly. At the beginning of the novel, she is writing from 2020 during the mist of the COVID pandemic. To see her journey through those 100 years was such a privilege for me as a reader. She evolves as many of us do from a child who has everything to one who had to start over. She has a fiery personality and never seems to do anything whether it's a general task or relationship without passion. Most of all she's human. Like her triumphs, Violeta also acknowledges her short comings. It is a beautiful tale of a woman who decided to live her life on her own terms and not solely on the expectations of others. I connected with this in so many ways. The beauty and grace in the writing is sure to appeal to many readers. If you haven't considered picking this up be sure to add it to your TBR.
November 9, 2022
I can say now that I finally know what people mean when they say they're relieved a book is over. It's been an exhausting read, something I'd not have ever imagined to say about an Isabel Allende book, an author I used to love so much but ended up hating when she became repetitive and formulaic, always churning out samey storylines and characters, and obsessively returning again and again to the one that made her famous, The House of the Spirits.
It was completionism what made me break my very long avoidance of her latest books; I heard this was based on Allende's mother and the protagonist was named del Valle, the same family from her stellar first novel that also reappear in two other novels that make an unintended trilogy. Daughter of Fortune and Portrait in Sepia. I didn't have high expectations, honestly, I learnt long ago to not expect much from Allende, just a need to know what else there was to tell about the del Valle clan. For those who are curious about what the connection between this novel and the two others is,
I feel such utter exhaustion just from thinking what to write as criticism, so I'll be brief: Isabel Allende is fixated on the same kind of characters and the same kind of anecdotes, and keeps repeating the same plots and events over and over in different novels, as if she has nothing original left to say. And it's so tiresome for those who've read more than two books by her, because we soon notice how utterly unoriginal and repetitive she is. This novel is supposed to be a homage to her mother, but instead of writing the actual story of her mother, which would've been original content, Allende just took the same bits and pieces from her other novels to create Violeta, and the other characters, even when she claims the inspiration are new people, are again repetitive. The character of Nieves, for example, has appeared in other novels already, with different names. Why? Because Allende can't think of anything original and recycles the tragic drug-addicted daughters of her ex-husband, whose life she's also exploited for novels before and keeps doing so, as if no reader will ever notice the insulting repetition. The complaint I've seen from other reviewers about feeling like they've read this novel before is 100% warranted and correct, because it frankly is.
And Allende isn't even bothering to at least put more effort into her writing, which has lost quality and not just due to age. She gives the impression that she doesn't write for the love of writing anymore but due to habit, because it's January 8th again and she must write something, no matter if it's crap. She herself admitted as much in one interview to a Spanish-language newspaper where she said that when she sits down to write every January 8th, she thinks "I'll write a bad book, and if it's garbage, I'll sort it out afterwards." Well, she didn't sort this one out, because it's still garbage, and I say that with a sorrowful and disappointed heart.
And because I read this in Spanish, there's no "lost in translation" excuse I could cling to. It's simply a lazily-written book with recycled plots, meaningless detours aplenty, and horridly unlikable main characters that are also recycled, and that's it. At least I can say I honoured my following the del Valle saga till the bitter end, and I'll always love the other novels, especially House of the Spirits, although I'm not sure I can count this one as part of the saga.
It was completionism what made me break my very long avoidance of her latest books; I heard this was based on Allende's mother and the protagonist was named del Valle, the same family from her stellar first novel that also reappear in two other novels that make an unintended trilogy. Daughter of Fortune and Portrait in Sepia. I didn't have high expectations, honestly, I learnt long ago to not expect much from Allende, just a need to know what else there was to tell about the del Valle clan. For those who are curious about what the connection between this novel and the two others is,
I feel such utter exhaustion just from thinking what to write as criticism, so I'll be brief: Isabel Allende is fixated on the same kind of characters and the same kind of anecdotes, and keeps repeating the same plots and events over and over in different novels, as if she has nothing original left to say. And it's so tiresome for those who've read more than two books by her, because we soon notice how utterly unoriginal and repetitive she is. This novel is supposed to be a homage to her mother, but instead of writing the actual story of her mother, which would've been original content, Allende just took the same bits and pieces from her other novels to create Violeta, and the other characters, even when she claims the inspiration are new people, are again repetitive. The character of Nieves, for example, has appeared in other novels already, with different names. Why? Because Allende can't think of anything original and recycles the tragic drug-addicted daughters of her ex-husband, whose life she's also exploited for novels before and keeps doing so, as if no reader will ever notice the insulting repetition. The complaint I've seen from other reviewers about feeling like they've read this novel before is 100% warranted and correct, because it frankly is.
And Allende isn't even bothering to at least put more effort into her writing, which has lost quality and not just due to age. She gives the impression that she doesn't write for the love of writing anymore but due to habit, because it's January 8th again and she must write something, no matter if it's crap. She herself admitted as much in one interview to a Spanish-language newspaper where she said that when she sits down to write every January 8th, she thinks "I'll write a bad book, and if it's garbage, I'll sort it out afterwards." Well, she didn't sort this one out, because it's still garbage, and I say that with a sorrowful and disappointed heart.
And because I read this in Spanish, there's no "lost in translation" excuse I could cling to. It's simply a lazily-written book with recycled plots, meaningless detours aplenty, and horridly unlikable main characters that are also recycled, and that's it. At least I can say I honoured my following the del Valle saga till the bitter end, and I'll always love the other novels, especially House of the Spirits, although I'm not sure I can count this one as part of the saga.
February 13, 2022
Back to the Allende world and the beauty of Chile.
Allende has a natural talent for weaving a story of such vibrant colours, language, culture, traditions and of course characters.
This is another breathtaking one. An epic story that begins with the birth of Violeta in a storm during the Spanish flu. Her journey takes us through the survival of the depression and the exile her family experiences when her father loses their financial
Wealth. She weds, has 2 children with another man, earns her own money through her own creative work. The political disturbances of the country on the verge of collapse and the years of dictatorship.
This is one about family. Of Relationships. Of country. The challenges, the love, the loss.
Allende wraps you into a warm embrace in which you never want to leave.
It鈥檚 like coming home. 5猸愶笍
Allende has a natural talent for weaving a story of such vibrant colours, language, culture, traditions and of course characters.
This is another breathtaking one. An epic story that begins with the birth of Violeta in a storm during the Spanish flu. Her journey takes us through the survival of the depression and the exile her family experiences when her father loses their financial
Wealth. She weds, has 2 children with another man, earns her own money through her own creative work. The political disturbances of the country on the verge of collapse and the years of dictatorship.
This is one about family. Of Relationships. Of country. The challenges, the love, the loss.
Allende wraps you into a warm embrace in which you never want to leave.
It鈥檚 like coming home. 5猸愶笍
January 18, 2022
Imagine living 100 years 鈥� one complete century of, not only your own life evolving and changing, but your country and the world around you as well. What stories would you have to tell about what you鈥檇 lived through and experienced, and what would you leave to those who continue on after you?
Violeta del Valle was born in Chile during the Spanish Flu pandemic and she dies during the Coronavirus pandemic, but what an incredible life she lives between them! This work of historical fiction reads much like an actual memoir, written by Violeta in a long letter to her beloved grandson, Camilo. In it she details a life that sees prosperity and ruin due to the Great Depression, re-forging her own prosperity in a time where society frowned on women in business, marriages and affairs that range from sedate to tempestuous, the joys and sorrows of motherhood, war in the world at large and political upheaval and danger in her own country, a plethora of social issues, and ultimately finding new purpose in her later years.
I鈥檝e never read Isabel Allende before, but she truly has a gift of immersing you in the story and allowing you to see and experience through the eyes of another the world she鈥檚 describing. I felt transported and invested in the people and places she took me to, and there were a LOT of them. This is a character-rich novel, and there are so many vibrantly drawn characters to enjoy. Each one brought a wealth of personality and interest to the story, and Violeta鈥檚 travels took her to so many places that I almost felt like I was traveling with her.
Although they鈥檙e two different stories, I felt the same draw to this story that I did to Sofia Segovia鈥檚 book , and there are points the two have in common, such as the descriptions of the Spanish Flu pandemic, and some parallels between the character Simonopio in Segovia鈥檚 book and Torito in this one, both of whom I loved.
It鈥檚 a wonderful story, both joyful and heart-breaking, and it鈥檚 beautifully told. Honestly my only minor issue is just that the retelling of a hundred-year life can, understandably at moments, feel a little long! Having said that, we should all be so lucky to have a life as full as Violeta!
鈽呪槄鈽呪槄 陆 (rounded to 5)
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Netgalley and author Isabel Allende for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinions. It鈥檚 due to be published January 25, 2022.
Violeta del Valle was born in Chile during the Spanish Flu pandemic and she dies during the Coronavirus pandemic, but what an incredible life she lives between them! This work of historical fiction reads much like an actual memoir, written by Violeta in a long letter to her beloved grandson, Camilo. In it she details a life that sees prosperity and ruin due to the Great Depression, re-forging her own prosperity in a time where society frowned on women in business, marriages and affairs that range from sedate to tempestuous, the joys and sorrows of motherhood, war in the world at large and political upheaval and danger in her own country, a plethora of social issues, and ultimately finding new purpose in her later years.
I鈥檝e never read Isabel Allende before, but she truly has a gift of immersing you in the story and allowing you to see and experience through the eyes of another the world she鈥檚 describing. I felt transported and invested in the people and places she took me to, and there were a LOT of them. This is a character-rich novel, and there are so many vibrantly drawn characters to enjoy. Each one brought a wealth of personality and interest to the story, and Violeta鈥檚 travels took her to so many places that I almost felt like I was traveling with her.
Although they鈥檙e two different stories, I felt the same draw to this story that I did to Sofia Segovia鈥檚 book , and there are points the two have in common, such as the descriptions of the Spanish Flu pandemic, and some parallels between the character Simonopio in Segovia鈥檚 book and Torito in this one, both of whom I loved.
It鈥檚 a wonderful story, both joyful and heart-breaking, and it鈥檚 beautifully told. Honestly my only minor issue is just that the retelling of a hundred-year life can, understandably at moments, feel a little long! Having said that, we should all be so lucky to have a life as full as Violeta!
鈽呪槄鈽呪槄 陆 (rounded to 5)
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Netgalley and author Isabel Allende for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinions. It鈥檚 due to be published January 25, 2022.
July 25, 2022
"Violeta" by Isabel Allende is a story of a woman's life lived to its fullest!
My first glimpse of this author was listening to the audiobook of her brief memoir "Soul of a Woman" published in 2020. I was fascinated with her life story, and her robust views on feminism, marriage and sexuality.
"Violeta" was published in January 2022 and on August 2nd of this same year, Isabel Allende will be celebrating her 80th birthday. She continues to lead a remarkable life!
Main character, Violeta Del Valle, is born in 1920 Chile, shortly after the Great War and during the Spanish Influenza Pandemic. She is the youngest child in an affluent family, with five older brothers, and lives in a male dominated culture, era, and household.
What sounds like a memoir is actually a letter from one-hundred-year-old Violeta to her beloved grandson, Camilo. As she nears the end of her long and eventful life, she is gifting him with the memories she holds of the turmoil and passion of living her life to its fullest!
The history this main character sees, experiences and retells to her grandson is beautifully written as this author writes with her heart and soul about Violeta's life. She weaves a story that is vivid and dark, joyous and heartbreaking, pleasurable and painful, fulfilling and disappointing. It feels so personal and emotional, as if the author may have experienced some of this life, as well.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Frances Riddle whose voicing skills are believable as she authentically becomes the character of Violeta. With 13 hours of listening time, it never feels too long, repetitive, or slow.
I love this story and have purchased two more of this author's books. I plan to continue through her backlist until I reach the end. And, I hope there are more books yet to be written!
I highly recommend this book!
My first glimpse of this author was listening to the audiobook of her brief memoir "Soul of a Woman" published in 2020. I was fascinated with her life story, and her robust views on feminism, marriage and sexuality.
"Violeta" was published in January 2022 and on August 2nd of this same year, Isabel Allende will be celebrating her 80th birthday. She continues to lead a remarkable life!
Main character, Violeta Del Valle, is born in 1920 Chile, shortly after the Great War and during the Spanish Influenza Pandemic. She is the youngest child in an affluent family, with five older brothers, and lives in a male dominated culture, era, and household.
What sounds like a memoir is actually a letter from one-hundred-year-old Violeta to her beloved grandson, Camilo. As she nears the end of her long and eventful life, she is gifting him with the memories she holds of the turmoil and passion of living her life to its fullest!
The history this main character sees, experiences and retells to her grandson is beautifully written as this author writes with her heart and soul about Violeta's life. She weaves a story that is vivid and dark, joyous and heartbreaking, pleasurable and painful, fulfilling and disappointing. It feels so personal and emotional, as if the author may have experienced some of this life, as well.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Frances Riddle whose voicing skills are believable as she authentically becomes the character of Violeta. With 13 hours of listening time, it never feels too long, repetitive, or slow.
I love this story and have purchased two more of this author's books. I plan to continue through her backlist until I reach the end. And, I hope there are more books yet to be written!
I highly recommend this book!
October 17, 2021
Violeta Del Valle now 100, writes to her much loved grandson Camilo and tells him the story of her incredible life. Violeta was born in 1920 in the midst of the Spanish Flu epidemic which like everywhere else ravages Chile and she will die in 2020 during the Coronavirus pandemic, a strangely symmetrical coincidence of a life circle completed. It鈥檚 an amazing story of riches to rags following the 1929 Wall Street Crash and her family鈥檚 exile from the capital to Nahuel in the south of Chile where she blossoms. She tells of her loves and losses, her marriages, her passionate affairs one of which has a brutal element to it but which gave her children and her grandson Camilo, 鈥榟er greatest love鈥�. It charts her success as an astute business woman, we view women鈥檚 rights, political rights through which there鈥檚 a snapshot of Chile鈥檚 dramatic changes which have been well documented in her books and in others. The historical context is superb, it鈥檚 written with real clarity and includes stories of great bravery such as that of Albert Benoit.
This is a beautifully written, intense, dramatic sweeping saga of a colourful life well lived through some astounding events and I love every word of it. It鈥檚 written in the typical Allende visual style so you can see the characters and events spring to life before your eyes which simply enthrals me. The quality of the writing and the story of Violeta leads to a multitude of emotions as her highs are yours and the lows are deeply felt. I love the moments of humour but there鈥檚 also the other end of the scale with personal darkness for Violeta, for Chile and the world. The characterisation is fantastic, all are exceptionally well crafted and you get a strong sense of the personalities springing from the pages. The settings are beautiful especially Nahuel (google it, it鈥檚 absolutely stunning!) and there are some wonderful descriptions. I especially like the indigenous element which is extremely powerful especially the spirituality which plays an important role in the storytelling.
Overall, I鈥檝e read most of Isabel Allende鈥檚 books and in my opinion she鈥檚 one of the best authors around as she never fails to take me on a literary journey. This one is spellbinding, captivating and absorbing and is storytelling at its best. What a beautiful cover too, matching the contents.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bloomsbury Publishing PLC for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This is a beautifully written, intense, dramatic sweeping saga of a colourful life well lived through some astounding events and I love every word of it. It鈥檚 written in the typical Allende visual style so you can see the characters and events spring to life before your eyes which simply enthrals me. The quality of the writing and the story of Violeta leads to a multitude of emotions as her highs are yours and the lows are deeply felt. I love the moments of humour but there鈥檚 also the other end of the scale with personal darkness for Violeta, for Chile and the world. The characterisation is fantastic, all are exceptionally well crafted and you get a strong sense of the personalities springing from the pages. The settings are beautiful especially Nahuel (google it, it鈥檚 absolutely stunning!) and there are some wonderful descriptions. I especially like the indigenous element which is extremely powerful especially the spirituality which plays an important role in the storytelling.
Overall, I鈥檝e read most of Isabel Allende鈥檚 books and in my opinion she鈥檚 one of the best authors around as she never fails to take me on a literary journey. This one is spellbinding, captivating and absorbing and is storytelling at its best. What a beautiful cover too, matching the contents.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bloomsbury Publishing PLC for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
February 21, 2022
The year is 1920, in an unnamed country in South America. Violeta is born into Del Valles family with five boys, a father who takes risky ventures, and mother who refuses to socialize.
Violeta relates her story in a form of a letter to someone she dearly loves. Through her eyes, we see dramatic changes in a span of one person鈥檚 lifetime. When the stock market crashes in September 1929, her father鈥檚 bold decisions leave the family in a dire situation. The oldest son, Jose Antonio, turns out to be the rock of the family, taking the lead and responsibility to provide for the family.
Violeta鈥檚 is the character of a woman who exemplifies a life lived to the fullest, despite all the challenges life serves her. And it brings quite many of them. She lives through political revolutions, tyranny, economic downfalls, and the natural disasters of earthquakes and pandemics. She is born into privilege, and with the Great Depression she tastes poverty, while being quick at adapting to circumstances. Some of her remaining spoiled traits are eradicated completely by farm work and participation in teaching basics to children in remote areas. As a young woman, she shows the ability to make money, while being prudent, careful and calculated - the opposite of her father. She marries a good man, but passion drives her to another, at times, causing her to lose her good judgement. She experiences motherhood with its blissful moments as well as some heartbreaks, including resentment of her own child.
As with all Isabel Allende鈥檚 work, the characters are richly textured and set against vivid historical background. The heartfelt writing authentically reflects the lives of Latin American people with a heroine, who is flawed, makes good decisions to prosper herself and her family, but struggles with making the right decisions when it comes to love. The story vividly illustrates a lifetime set during turbulent times, when one鈥檚 life鈥檚 circumstances can change in a blink of an eye and how one can still rise time and time again.
It is an inspiring story of a woman who lives her life passionately, and despite the challenging times for women of her time, she still lives it on her own terms.
There is a mystery set in regards to location. The exact country in South America is not stated. However, the geographical descriptions and historical facts give hints where it might be happening.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Violeta relates her story in a form of a letter to someone she dearly loves. Through her eyes, we see dramatic changes in a span of one person鈥檚 lifetime. When the stock market crashes in September 1929, her father鈥檚 bold decisions leave the family in a dire situation. The oldest son, Jose Antonio, turns out to be the rock of the family, taking the lead and responsibility to provide for the family.
Violeta鈥檚 is the character of a woman who exemplifies a life lived to the fullest, despite all the challenges life serves her. And it brings quite many of them. She lives through political revolutions, tyranny, economic downfalls, and the natural disasters of earthquakes and pandemics. She is born into privilege, and with the Great Depression she tastes poverty, while being quick at adapting to circumstances. Some of her remaining spoiled traits are eradicated completely by farm work and participation in teaching basics to children in remote areas. As a young woman, she shows the ability to make money, while being prudent, careful and calculated - the opposite of her father. She marries a good man, but passion drives her to another, at times, causing her to lose her good judgement. She experiences motherhood with its blissful moments as well as some heartbreaks, including resentment of her own child.
As with all Isabel Allende鈥檚 work, the characters are richly textured and set against vivid historical background. The heartfelt writing authentically reflects the lives of Latin American people with a heroine, who is flawed, makes good decisions to prosper herself and her family, but struggles with making the right decisions when it comes to love. The story vividly illustrates a lifetime set during turbulent times, when one鈥檚 life鈥檚 circumstances can change in a blink of an eye and how one can still rise time and time again.
It is an inspiring story of a woman who lives her life passionately, and despite the challenging times for women of her time, she still lives it on her own terms.
There is a mystery set in regards to location. The exact country in South America is not stated. However, the geographical descriptions and historical facts give hints where it might be happening.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
December 8, 2021
4.5 stars, rounded up
This is only my second book by Isabel Allende, but once again I was entranced. She manages to weave personal stories into the details of the time and place.
Violeta is 100 years old and is writing out the story of her life for her grandson. Starting with the Spanish Flu, which hit Chile in 1920, the story progresses through the Great Depression, The Cuban Revolution, the Chilean military dictatorship and all the major stories of the 20th century. It was interesting to learn how those major events affected the country. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a strange symmetry that I was born in one pandemic and will die in another.鈥�
Violeta was a fascinating woman. She starts as a child of privilege, but after her father loses everything, she鈥檚 forced to learn to make due in a rural setting in a remote part of the country. She鈥檚 got a wild streak, a desire to do and see it all, to be her own woman. She鈥檚 also a passionate woman. She was so realistic I had to remind myself not to be so distressed by her often violent relationship with Julian Bravo, her lover of many years.
It鈥檚 a fine line with historical fiction between making us truly see the time and place rather than just telling the reader. Allende walks that line, doing a fabulous balancing act.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
This is only my second book by Isabel Allende, but once again I was entranced. She manages to weave personal stories into the details of the time and place.
Violeta is 100 years old and is writing out the story of her life for her grandson. Starting with the Spanish Flu, which hit Chile in 1920, the story progresses through the Great Depression, The Cuban Revolution, the Chilean military dictatorship and all the major stories of the 20th century. It was interesting to learn how those major events affected the country. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a strange symmetry that I was born in one pandemic and will die in another.鈥�
Violeta was a fascinating woman. She starts as a child of privilege, but after her father loses everything, she鈥檚 forced to learn to make due in a rural setting in a remote part of the country. She鈥檚 got a wild streak, a desire to do and see it all, to be her own woman. She鈥檚 also a passionate woman. She was so realistic I had to remind myself not to be so distressed by her often violent relationship with Julian Bravo, her lover of many years.
It鈥檚 a fine line with historical fiction between making us truly see the time and place rather than just telling the reader. Allende walks that line, doing a fabulous balancing act.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
December 10, 2021
"There is no greater power on this earth than story." (Libba Bray)
Isabel Allende stands among the best of the best when it comes to portraying stories that grip you hard and then soften like sheer down. Violeta is long in its telling. Allende is detailed in leaving no stone unturned in describing political upheaval and presenting the deep cuts of loss. She hunches your shoulders over every petal and over every thorn. She frustrates you, at times, with the unending throngs of characters around every corner. And then, she swiftly brings you to your knees with the rawness of a carved cross bearings names.
Violeta was born in an unnamed country in South America in 1920 just after the Great War. Her beginnings reflect what lies ahead. Her mother has had numerous miscarriages and has delivered five sons before Violeta. Her father, Arsenio Del Valle, dismisses the birth even if it bears a daughter. He is engulfed in his shady business deals until the Stock Market and the world-wide Great Depression drains the family fortune.
With no other recourse, the Del Valle family leaves the city to avoid the scandals. They travel to Nahuel, a small farming community reached by train. It is here that Violeta learns to make do with the barest of necessities. With her mother and her two aunts, she and her older brother, Jose Antonio, forge ahead in life. Jose Antonio gravitates toward the good things he learned from his wayward father. He establishes a lumber company and opens the door to a better life.
Isabel Allende creates a panoramic view of the life of Violeta. She is strongly opinionated, relentless in her beliefs, but lacks a "pause" button. We will experience Violeta's inner compass always pointing her in the wrong direction. When it comes to men, she trips over the most jagged of rocks. Her life swings unbalanced when she comes under the spell of a pilot she met one afternoon. The course of her life will be forever changed and that of her two children, Nieves and Juan Martin. We will experience heartwrenching events during these years.
And yet, Violeta was especially carved precisely for her zealous inroads into women's rights at a time and in a culture where such things did not exist. She stood her ground under the most trying of circumstances. Allende will set her story down in so many locations: Miami, Las Vegas, California, and finally Norway. And each time we will see awkward and ill-advised decisions coming from Violeta.....sometimes too late and sometimes too little. But this complicated woman will draw you in again and again. Isabel Allende sees to it.
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Random House (Ballantine Books) and to the highly talented Isabel Allende.
Isabel Allende stands among the best of the best when it comes to portraying stories that grip you hard and then soften like sheer down. Violeta is long in its telling. Allende is detailed in leaving no stone unturned in describing political upheaval and presenting the deep cuts of loss. She hunches your shoulders over every petal and over every thorn. She frustrates you, at times, with the unending throngs of characters around every corner. And then, she swiftly brings you to your knees with the rawness of a carved cross bearings names.
Violeta was born in an unnamed country in South America in 1920 just after the Great War. Her beginnings reflect what lies ahead. Her mother has had numerous miscarriages and has delivered five sons before Violeta. Her father, Arsenio Del Valle, dismisses the birth even if it bears a daughter. He is engulfed in his shady business deals until the Stock Market and the world-wide Great Depression drains the family fortune.
With no other recourse, the Del Valle family leaves the city to avoid the scandals. They travel to Nahuel, a small farming community reached by train. It is here that Violeta learns to make do with the barest of necessities. With her mother and her two aunts, she and her older brother, Jose Antonio, forge ahead in life. Jose Antonio gravitates toward the good things he learned from his wayward father. He establishes a lumber company and opens the door to a better life.
Isabel Allende creates a panoramic view of the life of Violeta. She is strongly opinionated, relentless in her beliefs, but lacks a "pause" button. We will experience Violeta's inner compass always pointing her in the wrong direction. When it comes to men, she trips over the most jagged of rocks. Her life swings unbalanced when she comes under the spell of a pilot she met one afternoon. The course of her life will be forever changed and that of her two children, Nieves and Juan Martin. We will experience heartwrenching events during these years.
And yet, Violeta was especially carved precisely for her zealous inroads into women's rights at a time and in a culture where such things did not exist. She stood her ground under the most trying of circumstances. Allende will set her story down in so many locations: Miami, Las Vegas, California, and finally Norway. And each time we will see awkward and ill-advised decisions coming from Violeta.....sometimes too late and sometimes too little. But this complicated woman will draw you in again and again. Isabel Allende sees to it.
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Random House (Ballantine Books) and to the highly talented Isabel Allende.
November 12, 2024
Why I chose to listen to this audiobook:
1. I've read a handful of 's works and enjoyed them all. She definitely has a unique writing style; and,
2. November 2024 is my self-declared "All About Allende" Month!
Praises:
1. Allende always develops such strong characters. Her female lead, Violeta, recounts her 100-year life story to her beloved Camilo in order to replace all the letters she has sent him over the years and consolidate her history into this book. She may not come across as likable, but she is definitely believable; and,
2. Allende shares a 100-year narrative of Violeta's homeland, from the time of the Spanish flu in 1920 to the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020. Although never named, I'm assuming Allende's own homeland of Chile is the featured setting. This country has such a rich history, both exhilarating and heartbreaking.
Overall Thoughts:
Allende is renown for anchoring a story to poignant historical events with a taste of autobiographical references. In this novel, history and culture are intertwined with Violeta's personal life - her relationships, her accomplishments, and her regrets.
Once again, I feel educated and entertained!
1. I've read a handful of 's works and enjoyed them all. She definitely has a unique writing style; and,
2. November 2024 is my self-declared "All About Allende" Month!
Praises:
1. Allende always develops such strong characters. Her female lead, Violeta, recounts her 100-year life story to her beloved Camilo in order to replace all the letters she has sent him over the years and consolidate her history into this book. She may not come across as likable, but she is definitely believable; and,
2. Allende shares a 100-year narrative of Violeta's homeland, from the time of the Spanish flu in 1920 to the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020. Although never named, I'm assuming Allende's own homeland of Chile is the featured setting. This country has such a rich history, both exhilarating and heartbreaking.
Overall Thoughts:
Allende is renown for anchoring a story to poignant historical events with a taste of autobiographical references. In this novel, history and culture are intertwined with Violeta's personal life - her relationships, her accomplishments, and her regrets.
Once again, I feel educated and entertained!
January 24, 2022
What will you see when you look back on your life?
Violetta was born during the Spanish Flu pandemic on a stormy day 1920 and at 100 years old during the coronavirus pandemic she is writing to her grandson as her life winds down. In her writing, she tells of her childhood years, being the first girl born after five sons. She lives an affluent life until the Great Depression and her family suffers immeasurable losses.
The only thing to do is to move on, and start over in a quieter, remote area where she will mature, grow, have a suitor, and begin a life full of many triumphs and sorrows. She writes of family, of love, of loss, of hardship, and joy. She has seen and experienced many things in her lifetime - pandemics, wars, love affairs, the fight for women's rights, loss, motherhood, achievements, advancements of science, poverty, wealth, and peace. She has lived a full and long life.
Isabel Allende blew me away with . It was the first book I have ever read by her many years ago and it is still my favorite. Allende writes of women who overcome obstacles against the odds, they are all on some journey both emotionally and physically, they have an inner strength, intelligence and find a way to live life on their terms.
Allende is a gifted writer and storyteller. You know when you pick up one of her books that you are in good hands. As she weaves her tales, I find myself immersed in the world she has created. Her descriptions are vivid and lush.
If you haven't read a book by Allende, do yourself a favor and give her a read. This book is a good place to start.
Thank you to Random House/Ballantine and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at
Violetta was born during the Spanish Flu pandemic on a stormy day 1920 and at 100 years old during the coronavirus pandemic she is writing to her grandson as her life winds down. In her writing, she tells of her childhood years, being the first girl born after five sons. She lives an affluent life until the Great Depression and her family suffers immeasurable losses.
The only thing to do is to move on, and start over in a quieter, remote area where she will mature, grow, have a suitor, and begin a life full of many triumphs and sorrows. She writes of family, of love, of loss, of hardship, and joy. She has seen and experienced many things in her lifetime - pandemics, wars, love affairs, the fight for women's rights, loss, motherhood, achievements, advancements of science, poverty, wealth, and peace. She has lived a full and long life.
Isabel Allende blew me away with . It was the first book I have ever read by her many years ago and it is still my favorite. Allende writes of women who overcome obstacles against the odds, they are all on some journey both emotionally and physically, they have an inner strength, intelligence and find a way to live life on their terms.
Allende is a gifted writer and storyteller. You know when you pick up one of her books that you are in good hands. As she weaves her tales, I find myself immersed in the world she has created. Her descriptions are vivid and lush.
If you haven't read a book by Allende, do yourself a favor and give her a read. This book is a good place to start.
Thank you to Random House/Ballantine and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at
August 2, 2024
鉂わ笍This feeling when you finish reading a novel, let every word melt in your mouth, engrain the characters and the plot so that they鈥檒l stick with you for a long time鈥his feeling is pure satisfaction to me! The best feeling I can get out of my reading experiences. 馃鈥嶁檧锔�
Violeta is one of those novels that gave me this feeling.
馃挰An epic storytelling by Isabel Allende of melodramatic lives in a highly evocative, emotionally consuming and loving way embedding elements of magical realism. Sometimes she serves the clich茅 of Latin America with a meshwork of mafia and decadence, but it was an unarguable fit to the overall historical fiction, which I read with great pleasure.
馃Cheers to the one and only Violeta who lived an unforgettable life from 1920 to 2020 filled with passion, lust, love, ambivalence, doubts, and fears.
馃摎Whilst this novel has been my first read by Allende, it won鈥檛 be my last one.
馃専Highly recommended!馃専 Easy 5 stars!
Violeta is one of those novels that gave me this feeling.
馃挰An epic storytelling by Isabel Allende of melodramatic lives in a highly evocative, emotionally consuming and loving way embedding elements of magical realism. Sometimes she serves the clich茅 of Latin America with a meshwork of mafia and decadence, but it was an unarguable fit to the overall historical fiction, which I read with great pleasure.
馃Cheers to the one and only Violeta who lived an unforgettable life from 1920 to 2020 filled with passion, lust, love, ambivalence, doubts, and fears.
馃摎Whilst this novel has been my first read by Allende, it won鈥檛 be my last one.
馃専Highly recommended!馃専 Easy 5 stars!
April 29, 2022
J谩 imaginou ler a hist贸ria de algu茅m que nasceu em meio a gripe espanhola, na d茅cada de 20, e viveu para testemunhar o mundo paralisado pela pandemia em pleno 2020? Bom, 茅 justamente essa linha de tempo contemplada por 鈥淰ioleta鈥� que, ainda por cima, conta com a escrita fantasiosa de Allende.
S茫o diversos os momentos hist贸ricos que a autora atravessa por meio de seu 煤ltimo livro (best seller em diversos pa铆ses). Violeta del Valle foi a primeira garota em uma fam铆lia repleta de meninos. Talvez esse fato tenha tornado Violeta uma mulher que sempre buscava se destacar no ambiente em que vivia. Mas essa tarefa n茫o foi f谩cil, e nem sempre bem sucedida. Tendo nascido no in铆cio do s茅culo XX, Violeta vivenciou passagens hist贸ricas que afetaram sua trajet贸ria. Ao leitor, toda essa intensa narrativa 茅 apresentada por meio de uma carta dedicada a Camilo, uma figura que at茅 ent茫o desconhecemos.
Enquanto ainda crian莽a, a protagonista teve que deixar a vida das cidades e se 鈥渞efugiar鈥� em um local isolado do pa铆s, que n茫o nos 茅 especificado por Allende, tudo como forma de prote莽茫o do pai contra a grande crise financeira que afetou o mundo no ano de 1929. E 茅 nesse ambiente rodeado por natureza, com a presen莽a de descendentes de povos ind铆genas e sob a tutoria de uma jovem europeia que Violeta cresce.
A escrita 茅 bem fluida e gostosa de ler, como 茅 de se esperar dos livros de Allende. Confesso que no meio do livro o ritmo acaba ficando mais lento, mas a autora consegue recuper谩-lo na 煤ltima parte. Talvez isso at茅 seja proposital, j谩 que a autora pretendia mostrar como tantos acontecimentos hist贸ricos v茫o acontecendo em uma vida de algu茅m aparentemente comum, que n茫o 茅 a hero铆na, nem a vil茫 de uma hist贸ria. Violeta 茅 uma mulher que vive seus amores, sofre suas perdas e questiona injusti莽as que passam 脿 sua frente.
Nesse ponto, achei bem interessante como a autora aborda algumas quest玫es sociais relevantes sobre as quais nunca havia lido nada t茫o espec铆fico em seus outros romances. 脡 o sinal de que alguns assuntos n茫o podem ficar de lado nos tempo em que vivemos! Leitura que recomendo para todo mundo!
Nota 9/10
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S茫o diversos os momentos hist贸ricos que a autora atravessa por meio de seu 煤ltimo livro (best seller em diversos pa铆ses). Violeta del Valle foi a primeira garota em uma fam铆lia repleta de meninos. Talvez esse fato tenha tornado Violeta uma mulher que sempre buscava se destacar no ambiente em que vivia. Mas essa tarefa n茫o foi f谩cil, e nem sempre bem sucedida. Tendo nascido no in铆cio do s茅culo XX, Violeta vivenciou passagens hist贸ricas que afetaram sua trajet贸ria. Ao leitor, toda essa intensa narrativa 茅 apresentada por meio de uma carta dedicada a Camilo, uma figura que at茅 ent茫o desconhecemos.
Enquanto ainda crian莽a, a protagonista teve que deixar a vida das cidades e se 鈥渞efugiar鈥� em um local isolado do pa铆s, que n茫o nos 茅 especificado por Allende, tudo como forma de prote莽茫o do pai contra a grande crise financeira que afetou o mundo no ano de 1929. E 茅 nesse ambiente rodeado por natureza, com a presen莽a de descendentes de povos ind铆genas e sob a tutoria de uma jovem europeia que Violeta cresce.
A escrita 茅 bem fluida e gostosa de ler, como 茅 de se esperar dos livros de Allende. Confesso que no meio do livro o ritmo acaba ficando mais lento, mas a autora consegue recuper谩-lo na 煤ltima parte. Talvez isso at茅 seja proposital, j谩 que a autora pretendia mostrar como tantos acontecimentos hist贸ricos v茫o acontecendo em uma vida de algu茅m aparentemente comum, que n茫o 茅 a hero铆na, nem a vil茫 de uma hist贸ria. Violeta 茅 uma mulher que vive seus amores, sofre suas perdas e questiona injusti莽as que passam 脿 sua frente.
Nesse ponto, achei bem interessante como a autora aborda algumas quest玫es sociais relevantes sobre as quais nunca havia lido nada t茫o espec铆fico em seus outros romances. 脡 o sinal de que alguns assuntos n茫o podem ficar de lado nos tempo em que vivemos! Leitura que recomendo para todo mundo!
Nota 9/10
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November 21, 2024when you read one isabel allende book, you just feel like you have to read all of them
March 17, 2025
兀乇丿鬲購 亘賴匕賴 丕賱氐賮丨丕鬲 兀賳 兀鬲乇賰 賱賰 卮賴丕丿丞賸貙 廿賷賲丕賳賸丕 賲賳賽賾賷 亘兀賳賻賾 丕賱匕丕賰乇丞 爻賵賮 鬲禺匕賱賰貙 賮賷 丕賱賲爻鬲賯亘賱 丕賱亘毓賷丿貙 賲鬲賶 氐乇鬲賻 毓噩賵夭賸丕貙 賵賮賰賻賾乇鬲賻 賮賷賻賾貙 賱兀賳賻賾賰 丿丕卅賲 丕賱卮乇賵丿貙 鬲賱賰 丕賱丌賮丞 丕賱鬲賷 鬲夭丿丕丿 爻賵亍賸丕 賰賱賻賾賲丕 鬲賯丿賻賾賲鬲賻 賮賷 丕賱毓賲乇. 鬲爻鬲丨賯賾 丨賷丕鬲賷 兀賳 鬲購乇賵賻賶貙 賱丕 賲賳 兀噩賱 賮囟丕卅賱賷貙 亘賱 賲賳 兀噩賱 丌孬丕賲賷貙 鬲賱賰 丕賱鬲賷 賱丕 鬲卮鬲亘賴 兀賳鬲 賮賷 賰孬賷乇賺 賲賳賴丕. 賴兀賳匕丕 兀乇賵賷賴丕 賱賰 賴賳丕. 賵賱爻賵賮 鬲乇賶 兀賳賻賾 丨賷丕鬲賷 乇賵丕賷丞.鈥�
亘亘爻丕胤丞 丕賱乇賵丕賷丞 毓賳 丨賷丕丞 賮賷賵賱賷鬲丕 賲賳 賷賵賲 賲賷賱丕丿賴丕 賮賷 夭賲賳 噩丕卅丨丞 丕賱兀賳賮賱賵賳夭丕 丕賱廿爻亘丕賳賷丞 毓丕賲 佟侃佗贍 廿賱賶 賲賲丕鬲賴丕 兀孬賳丕亍 噩丕卅丨丞 賰賵乇賵賳丕 佗贍佗贍 "廿賳賴 賱鬲賳丕爻賯 睾乇賷亘 兀賳 兀購賵賱丿 賮賷 噩丕卅丨丞賺 賵兀賲賵鬲 賮賷 兀禺乇賶 " 鬲丨賰賷賴丕 賱賳丕 賲賳 禺賱丕賱 乇爻丕卅賱賴丕 丕賱賶 賰丕賲賷賱賵 鬲氐賮 賮賷賴 丨賷丕鬲賴丕 賲賳匕 丕賱胤賮賵賱丞 賵亘賳鬲毓乇賮 毓賱賶 亘賷鬲賴丕 賵毓丕卅賱鬲賴丕 賵兀丨賵丕賱賴賲 賵亘鬲賰鬲亘 賰賱 丕賱賱賷 賲乇鬲 亘賴 賲賳 兀丨丿丕孬 胤賵丕賱 丨賷丕鬲賴丕 賵丕賱卮禺氐賷丕鬲 丕賱鬲賷 鬲毓丕賲賱鬲 賲毓賴丕 賵兀孬乇鬲 賮賷 丨賷丕鬲賴丕 賲賳匕 丕賱胤賮賵賱丞 賵丨鬲賶 丕賱賳賴丕賷丞 賵賯丕賲鬲 亘賵氐賮 丕賱丕丨丿丕孬 賲賳 丨賵賱賴丕.
" 鬲賯賵賱 賯氐賷丿丞 兀賳胤賵賳賷賵 賲丕鬲卮丕丿賵: 芦兀賷購賾賴丕 丕賱爻丕卅乇貙 賲丕 賲賽賳 胤賻乇賷賯貙 賮丕賱胤乇賷賯購 賷毓亘賽賾丿賴丕 丕賱賲賻爻賷乇禄. 兀賲賻賾丕 賮賷 丨丕賱鬲賷貙 賮兀賳丕 賱賲 兀購毓亘賽賾丿 丕賱胤乇賷賯貙 亘賱 毓亘乇鬲購 賯賮夭賸丕 賲賳 禺賱丕賱 丿乇賵亘賺 囟賷賽賾賯丞 賲購鬲毓乇賽賾噩丞貙 鬲賳賲丨賷 賵鬲鬲賱丕卮賶 賵爻胤 丕賱丌噩丕賲 丕賱賰孬賷賮丞 賮賷 賰孬賷乇賺 賲賳 丕賱兀丨賷丕賳 . 兀賲丕 丕賱胤乇賷賯 貙 賮賱丕 胤乇賷賯."
亘鬲毓噩亘賳賷 賮賷 乇賵丕賷丕鬲 丕賷夭丕亘賷賱 丕賳賴丕 亘鬲禺賱賷 卮禺氐賷丕鬲賴丕 丕賱賳爻丕卅賷丞 賯賵賷丞 賵匕賰賷丞 貙 賯丕丿乇丞 鬲丨賯賯 丕賱賱賶 賴賷 毓丕賷夭丕賴 賵鬲毓賲賱 丕賱賱賶 鬲賯丿乇 毓賱賷賴 毓卮丕賳 鬲賵氐賱 賱胤賲賵丨丕鬲賴丕 丨鬲賶 賱賵 丿賴 囟丿 丕賮賰丕乇 丕賱賲噩鬲賲毓 . 賵丕賳賴賲 賯丕丿乇賷賳 賷賯賮賵丕 賲賳 鬲丕賳賶 賲賴賲丕 賰丕賳鬲 氐毓賵亘丞 賴夭丕卅賲賴賲 賲賳 丕賱丨賷丕丞 .
賵亘鬲毓噩亘賳賷 賮賰乇丞 兀賳 丕賱廿賳爻丕賳 兀賷丕 賰丕賳 爻賳丞 賲賲賰賳 賷丨亘 賵賷亘丿兀 賷毓賲賱 丨丕噩丕鬲 賲賯丿乇卮 賷毓賲賱賴丕 賵賴賵 賮賷 爻賳 氐睾賷乇 賵兀賳 兀爻丕賱賷亘賴 賮賷 丕賱丨賷丕丞 賵丕禺鬲賷丕乇丕鬲賴 賲賲賰賳 鬲鬲睾賷乇 賲賳 睾賷乇 賲丕 賷丿賮賳 賳賮爻賴 賵賴賵 賱爻賴 毓丕賷卮 .
賵賯氐氐 丕賱丨亘 丕賱噩賳賵賳賷丞 賵 卮禺氐賷丕鬲賴丕 丕賱賱賷 亘鬲丨亘 亘噩賳賵賳 賵賲賲賰賳 鬲鬲禺賱賶 毓賳 賰賱 丨丕噩丞 賵鬲毓賲賱 丕賶 丨丕噩丞 賮賷 爻亘賷賱 丨亘賴丕 亘爻 丕賱賰丕乇孬丞 賴賳丕 丕賳 丕賱丨亘 丿賴 賰丕賳 賱卮禺氐 賳乇噩爻賷 貙 賱毓賵亘 貙 賰丿丕亘 賲賷爻鬲丨賯卮 丕氐賱丕 丕賱丨亘 丿賴 貙 賰乇賴鬲 禺賵賱賷丕賳 賵丕賱卮禺氐賷丕鬲 丕賱卮亘賷賴丞 賱賴 賮賷 丕賱丨賷丕丞 .
亘爻 亘乇睾賲 丕賳賶 丕鬲毓氐亘鬲 賰鬲賷乇 賲賳 丕賱毓賱丕賯丞 丿賶 賱兀爻亘丕亘 賰鬲賷乇 亘爻 賮賷 賳賮爻 丕賱賵賯鬲 毓噩亘賳賷 賳噩丕丨 丕賷夭丕亘賷賱 賮賷 鬲賯丿賷賲 賳賵毓賷丞 賵卮賰賱 丕賱毓賱丕賯丞 丿賶 亘卮禺氐 賳乇噩爻賷 賵賲丐匕賷 賵鬲賵囟賷丨 兀賳 鬲氐乇賮丕鬲 丕賱卮禺氐 丿賴 賲亘鬲賰賵賳卮 賵丕囟丨丞 賵禺氐賵氐丕 賮賷 丕賱亘丿丕賷丞 賵丕賲丕 亘鬲亘丿兀 鬲馗賴乇 丕賱丨賯賷賯丞 亘賷賰賵賳 賲毓丕賴丕 鬲賱丕毓亘 卮丿賷丿 賲賳賴 賮亘丕賱鬲丕賱賷 亘鬲卮賰 賴賷 賮賷 賳賮爻賴丕 賵亘鬲毓鬲匕乇 乇睾賲 丕賳 丕賱丨賯 賲毓丕賴丕. 丿賴 亘噩丕賳亘 丕賳 亘賷賰賵賳 睾丕賱亘丕賸 賮賷 鬲賳丕夭賱丕鬲 賵禺爻丕乇丞 丕賱卮禺氐賷丞 丿賷 鬲爻亘亘鬲 賮賷賴丕 賮亘賷賰賵賳 丕賱鬲禺賱氐 賲賳賴丕 賵賯胤毓 丕賱毓賱丕賯丞 賲毓丕賴丕 賲卮 爻賴賱. 丿賴 睾賷乇 丕賳 丕賱卮禺氐 丿賴 亘賷賰賵賳 睾丕賱亘丕賸 賳丕噩丨 賵毓賳丿賴 卮禺氐賷丞 亘鬲噩匕亘 丕賱丌禺乇賷賳 爻賵丕亍 丕賱賳爻丕亍 兀賵 丕賱乇噩丕賱 .
毓卮丕賳 賰丿賴 賱丕夭賲 亘乇睾賲 賲丨丕賵賱丕鬲 丕賱卮禺氐 丿賴 丕賳賴 賲賷亘賯丕卮 賮賷 丨賷丕鬲賰 睾賷乇賴 賱丕夭賲 兀賳賰 鬲丨丕賮馗 毓賱賶 賳丕爻 賯乇賷亘丞 賮賷 丨賷丕鬲賰 賷賯丿乇賵丕 賮賷 賵賯鬲 賲丕 丨鬲賶 賱賵 亘毓賷丿 丕賳賴賲 賷爻丕毓丿賵丕 賮賷 廿賳賯丕匕賰 賵賲爻丕毓丿鬲賰 賱賱鬲禺賱氐 賲賳 丕賱毓賱丕賯丞 丿賶 賵丕賱鬲禺賱氐 賲賳 丕賱鬲毓賱賯 亘丕賱卮禺氐賷丞 丿賶 賵 丕賱鬲禺賱氐 賲賳 爻賲賵賲 丕賱卮禺氐賷丞 丿賷 賵廿丿賲丕賳 賵噩賵丿賴丕 .
"賰丕賳 賮賷 賵爻毓賳丕 丕賱卮毓賵乇 亘丕賱爻毓丕丿丞 亘賷賳 賰賱賽賾 賵丕賯毓丞賺 亘睾賷囟丞 賵兀禺乇賶貙 鬲賱賰 丕賱賵賯丕卅毓 丕賱鬲賷 賱賲 賷鬲禺賱賻賾賱賴丕 丕賱鬲毓丿賽賾賷 亘丕賱囟乇亘 賮賷 賰賱賽賾 賲乇賻賾丞. 亘賱 廿賳賻賾 丕賱廿爻丕亍丞 賰丕賳鬲 賱賮馗賷賻賾丞賸 亘賵噩賴 丕賱毓賲賵賲. 丕賲鬲賱賰 禺賵賱賷丕賳 鬲賱賰 丕賱賲賴丕乇丞 丕賱賳丕丿乇丞 丕賱鬲賷 爻賲丨賻鬲 賱賴 亘鬲禺賲賷賳 兀囟毓賮 賳賯丕胤 禺氐賵賲賴."
賵丕賱賰丕乇孬丞 丕賱賱賷 賵囟丨鬲賴丕 丕賱乇賵丕賷丞 賰賲丕賳 賴賵 鬲兀孬賷乇 丕賱卮禺氐賷丞 丿賷 毓賱賶 賵賱丕丿賴 賵胤乇賷賯丞 賲毓丕賲賱鬲賴 賱賷賴賲 賵鬲兀孬賷乇賴丕 毓賱賶 卮禺氐賷鬲賴賲 賵丨賷丕鬲賴賲 賵賲爻鬲賯亘賱賴賲 .
賵亘毓賷丿丕 毓賳 毓賱丕賯鬲賴 亘賮賷賵賱賷鬲丕 賵賵賱丕丿賴 賵亘丕賯賷 毓賱丕賯丕鬲賴 丕賱賳爻丕卅賷丞 丕賱賱賶 賰賱賴丕 賮賷 丕賱賳賴丕賷丞 亘鬲卮亘賴 亘毓囟賴丕 賮賴賵 卮禺氐賷丞 亘丕賯賷 丨賷丕鬲賴 賵兀毓賲丕賱賴 賵鬲氐乇賮丕鬲賴 賷爻鬲丕賴賱 毓賱賷賴丕 丕賱丨乇賯 .
賵胤亘毓丕 賲賷賳賮毓卮 乇賵丕賷丞 賱丕賷夭丕亘賷賱 鬲賲乇 亘丿賵賳 匕賰乇 丕丨丿丕孬 爻賷丕爻賷丞 賵丕賯鬲氐丕丿賷丞 賰賲丕賳 禺賱丕賱 賮鬲乇丞 丨賷丕丞 賮賷賵賱賷鬲丕 .. 丕賱丿賷賰鬲丕鬲賵乇賷丞 賵丕賱賯賲毓 賵廿禺鬲賮丕亍 丕賱兀卮禺丕氐 賵丕賱鬲毓匕賷亘 賵賵丨卮賷丞 丕賱亘卮乇 ..
"賲毓爻賰乇丕鬲 丕賱丕毓鬲賯丕賱 貙 賵丕賱鬲毓匕賷亘貙 賵丕賱丕睾鬲賷丕賱丕鬲貙 賵丕賱賯賲毓 丕賱匕賷 鬲噩卮賻賾賲賴 賰孬賷乇賵賳. 賱丕 爻亘賷賱 廿賱賶 廿賳賰丕乇 卮賷亍賺 賲賳 賴匕丕貙 賵廿賳 賱賲 賳毓乇賮 亘賴 丌賳匕丕賰貙 賱賲 鬲賰購賳 賴賳丕賰 賲毓賱賵賲丕鬲貙 亘賱 賲購噩乇賻賾丿 卮丕卅毓丕鬲. 亘毓囟 丕賱賳丕爻 賷亘乇賽賾乇賵賳 賲丕 噩乇賶貙 馗賳賸賾丕 賲賳賴賲 亘兀賳賻賾賴丕 廿噩乇丕亍丕鬲 丿毓賻鬲 廿賱賷賴丕 丕賱囟乇賵乇丞 賱賮乇囟 丕賱賳馗丕賲 賵廿賳賯丕匕 丕賱亘賱丿 賲賳 丕賱卮賷賵毓賷賻賾丞. 爻丕丿鬲 丕賱兀賳馗賲丞 丕賱丿賷賰鬲丕鬲賵乇賷賻賾丞 賮賷 賰孬賷乇賺 賲賳 亘賱丿丕賳 兀賲賷乇賰丕 丕賱賱丕鬲賷賳賷賻賾丞貙 賵賱賲 鬲賯鬲氐乇 毓賱賶 亘賱丿賳丕 丿賵賳 爻賵丕賴. 賰丕賳鬲 鬲賱賰 丨賯亘丞賻 丕賱丨乇亘 丕賱亘丕乇丿丞 亘賷賳 丕賱賵賱丕賷丕鬲 丕賱賲鬲賻賾丨丿丞 賵丕賱丕鬲賽賾丨丕丿 丕賱爻賵冥賷賷鬲賷賾貙 賵賱賯丿 噩丕亍 賲賵賯毓賳丕 賮賷 賲賳胤賯丞 賳賮賵匕 丕賱兀賲賷乇賰丕賳貙 丕賱匕賷賳 賲丕 賰丕賳賵丕 賱賷爻賲丨賵丕 亘賵噩賵丿 兀賮賰丕乇 丕賱賷爻丕乇 賮賷 丕賱賯丕乇賻賾丞."
賵丕賱兀夭賲丕鬲 丕賱丕賯鬲氐丕丿賷丞 賵丕賱賳丕爻 丕賱賱賶 亘鬲賮賱爻 亘爻亘亘賴丕 賵丕賱兀丨丿丕孬 丕賱賱賶 亘鬲亘賯賶 爻亘亘 賮賷 鬲賰賵賷賳 兀卮禺丕氐 丌禺乇賷賳 賱孬乇賵丕鬲 亘丿賵賳 丨爻丕亘 爻賵丕亍 亘胤乇賯 賲卮乇賵毓丞 丕賵 睾賷乇 賲卮乇賵毓丞 ..賵毓噩亘賳賷 賰賲丕賳 鬲胤乇賯賴丕 賱賲賵囟賵毓 丕賱毓賳賮 丕賱兀爻乇賷.
賰丕賱毓丕丿丞 賲賳 丕賱丨丕噩丕鬲 丕賱賱賶 亘鬲禺賱賷賳賶 亘丨亘 丕賷夭丕亘賷賱 賴賵 兀爻賱賵亘賴丕 賮賷 丕賱爻乇丿 貙 乇睾賲 丕賳賷 丨爻賷鬲 亘卮賵賷丞 賲賱賱 賮賷 丕賱亘丿丕賷丞 亘爻 亘毓丿 賰丿賴 噩匕亘鬲賳賷 .
賵兀禺賷乇丕 卮賰乇丕 賱賲丕乇賰 噩賲丕賱 毓賱賶 丕賱鬲乇噩賲丞 鉂も潳
賵卮賰乇丕 賱賳噩丕丨 胤丕賴乇 毓賱賶 鬲氐賲賷賲 丕賱睾賱丕賮 鉂�
伽 / 伽 / 佗贍佗伲
September 24, 2021
Violeta is born in South America as the youngest child to a family with five older boys, at the time in history just after the Great War and during the time of the Spanish flu epidemic.
She lives 100 years and dies in 2020 when coronavirus hits. Even after a century of living..at the end she says 鈥渨here did those hundred years go?鈥�
This story is told by Violeta to a loved one, and it doesn鈥檛 hold anything back..her passionate affairs, heartbreak, poverty, wealth, devastating losses, and the political upheavals she鈥檚 been witness to.
I really enjoyed the book, especially the first half which was more about herself with her family and close friends.
The second half became a little bogged down by all the political upheavals and other events in history..
Nevertheless, an engaging story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for the ARC!
She lives 100 years and dies in 2020 when coronavirus hits. Even after a century of living..at the end she says 鈥渨here did those hundred years go?鈥�
This story is told by Violeta to a loved one, and it doesn鈥檛 hold anything back..her passionate affairs, heartbreak, poverty, wealth, devastating losses, and the political upheavals she鈥檚 been witness to.
I really enjoyed the book, especially the first half which was more about herself with her family and close friends.
The second half became a little bogged down by all the political upheavals and other events in history..
Nevertheless, an engaging story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for the ARC!
November 10, 2022
It feels like I麓ve read all this before. I know Chile麓s history well, and Allende includes practically everything, with no depth to anything.It's as if she needed to mention every major event;it feels forced.And then there's the stereotypes. It's also detached, as other reviewers have pointed out, and at some point, it becomes predictable.
Having loved The House of the Spirits, and a couple more by her,this is a letdown.
Having loved The House of the Spirits, and a couple more by her,this is a letdown.
September 15, 2021
4.5 Stars
Violeta entered the world in 1920, the youngest of five children, and the only daughter, during the years of the pandemic that began in 1918, and arrived in South America the year she was born. Soon after, the Great Depression will follow, and their family will settle in a more isolated area, where she spends her childhood, and where she will meet her first sweetheart.
As the story of her life and the life of her family is shared, her personal life is filled with the history of those years whose effects were felt by many, the inequality of the times, the losses and her personal heartbreaks. The Women鈥檚 Suffrage Movement had finally made progress in America, which shaped the course of women鈥檚 rights beyond those borders.
This story is shared in an epistolary style, she shares her life鈥檚 story with a loved one, it covers the hundred years of her life, the memories of her parents, the memories of those she loved, and those she lost, as well. Men she loved for their friendship and caring, and those she loved more intimately. Her children, the struggles and frustrations that went with raising them, and the intensity of her love for them despite the paths they took.
She tells her story in the form of a letter to someone she loves above all others, recounting times of devastating heartbreak and passionate affairs, poverty and wealth, terrible loss and immense joy. Her life is shaped by some of the most important events of history: the fight for women's rights, the rise and fall of tyrants, and ultimately not one, but two pandemics.
While she shares her story, the story of the changes in the world during these hundred years is also shared, as well as her regrets, her confessions and her love for the gift of this life, despite the heartbreaks that are inevitably included.
A lovely and inspiring story of a woman filled with a passion for life, lived on one鈥檚 own terms.
Pub Date: 25 Jan 2022
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Ballantine Books
Violeta entered the world in 1920, the youngest of five children, and the only daughter, during the years of the pandemic that began in 1918, and arrived in South America the year she was born. Soon after, the Great Depression will follow, and their family will settle in a more isolated area, where she spends her childhood, and where she will meet her first sweetheart.
As the story of her life and the life of her family is shared, her personal life is filled with the history of those years whose effects were felt by many, the inequality of the times, the losses and her personal heartbreaks. The Women鈥檚 Suffrage Movement had finally made progress in America, which shaped the course of women鈥檚 rights beyond those borders.
This story is shared in an epistolary style, she shares her life鈥檚 story with a loved one, it covers the hundred years of her life, the memories of her parents, the memories of those she loved, and those she lost, as well. Men she loved for their friendship and caring, and those she loved more intimately. Her children, the struggles and frustrations that went with raising them, and the intensity of her love for them despite the paths they took.
She tells her story in the form of a letter to someone she loves above all others, recounting times of devastating heartbreak and passionate affairs, poverty and wealth, terrible loss and immense joy. Her life is shaped by some of the most important events of history: the fight for women's rights, the rise and fall of tyrants, and ultimately not one, but two pandemics.
While she shares her story, the story of the changes in the world during these hundred years is also shared, as well as her regrets, her confessions and her love for the gift of this life, despite the heartbreaks that are inevitably included.
A lovely and inspiring story of a woman filled with a passion for life, lived on one鈥檚 own terms.
Pub Date: 25 Jan 2022
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Ballantine Books
January 15, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up
Violeta is born in 1920 in South America during the Spanish flu, the first girl after five boys and several miscarriages. Violeta tells her story to someone she loves when she鈥檚 approaching her 100th birthday鈥攄uring yet another pandemic, this time COVID 19. During those hundred years, there is the upheaval of the Great Depression, marriage to someone she doesn鈥檛 love and a long-lasting but emotionally and sometimes physical abusive affair to a man she does. She has children and makes money, but it鈥檚 difficult for her to control her money because she鈥檚 a female.
Themes of women being able to control when they give birth and controlling what money they can earn permeate her hundred years on Earth. There鈥檚 government overreach and women fighting for the right to vote and being able to love who they love. It's ridiculous that we鈥檙e still battling those same issues. It鈥檚 a different time and a different country here in America, yet only some things have gotten better. Sadly the cliche about two steps forward and one step back is still applicable.
Allende is a gifted writer and this epic story that reaches across continents and decades makes for an absorbing read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES JANUARY 25.
Violeta is born in 1920 in South America during the Spanish flu, the first girl after five boys and several miscarriages. Violeta tells her story to someone she loves when she鈥檚 approaching her 100th birthday鈥攄uring yet another pandemic, this time COVID 19. During those hundred years, there is the upheaval of the Great Depression, marriage to someone she doesn鈥檛 love and a long-lasting but emotionally and sometimes physical abusive affair to a man she does. She has children and makes money, but it鈥檚 difficult for her to control her money because she鈥檚 a female.
Themes of women being able to control when they give birth and controlling what money they can earn permeate her hundred years on Earth. There鈥檚 government overreach and women fighting for the right to vote and being able to love who they love. It's ridiculous that we鈥檙e still battling those same issues. It鈥檚 a different time and a different country here in America, yet only some things have gotten better. Sadly the cliche about two steps forward and one step back is still applicable.
Allende is a gifted writer and this epic story that reaches across continents and decades makes for an absorbing read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES JANUARY 25.
October 23, 2024
This book was exactly what it was promising: page-turning rich historical drama.
The hundred years of Violeta flew by like a rocket. She lived in a tumultuous time, and her own story was intwined with main historical upheavals - pandemics, crises, political and natural disasters and unstoppable progress.
the format of the story isn't new - this sort of deathbed confession of a woman whose life was full of tragedies and toxic relationship seems familiar. But the author makes it very unique with colourful characters, magical realism and saturated historical background - not so much is known to a western reader about Latin America in general and Chilie in particular.
So, it was an informative as well as entertaining.
The hundred years of Violeta flew by like a rocket. She lived in a tumultuous time, and her own story was intwined with main historical upheavals - pandemics, crises, political and natural disasters and unstoppable progress.
the format of the story isn't new - this sort of deathbed confession of a woman whose life was full of tragedies and toxic relationship seems familiar. But the author makes it very unique with colourful characters, magical realism and saturated historical background - not so much is known to a western reader about Latin America in general and Chilie in particular.
So, it was an informative as well as entertaining.
February 20, 2022
My annual midwinter break read of an Allende book. With my busy life I will give the author and book justice later but as usual Allende brings me a warm heart and both a smile and tears to my face. Having read her for most of my life Violeta is yet another intimate cup of tea with an old friend.
June 10, 2022
Violeta by Isabel Allende is my first book by Isabel Allende. I was pulled in from the start of Violeta鈥檚 birth in 1920 during the Spanish flu. All the way to the end 2020. It is an emotionally charged book with much sadness throughout. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
February 13, 2022
I have long admired Isabel Allende鈥檚 gift for superior and epic storytelling. Violeta may just be her greatest accomplishment to date. As soon as I began reading Violeta I found that I was transported to another time and place. Once again, Isabel Allende wrote about a strong female protagonist. The female protagonist, Violeta Del Valle, possessed the qualities of independence, superior intellect and common sense, compassion, kindness, good business sense and the ability to make sound decisions. These qualities made this female protagonist, Violeta Del Valle, stand out and shine among men and women of her time. She was a woman that was independent and a woman ahead of the times she lived through. Violeta Del Valle lived to see her one hundredth birthday. In her day, women were expected to marry, keep house and have babies. That was not the life Violeta saw for herself and she would not think of settling.
Violeta Del Valle was born in the year 1920 somewhere in South America. She was the only girl child in her family. Her mother had had five sons before Violeta was born. Everyone was ecstatic to welcome a girl into their family. Violeta had a mind of her own that stemmed back to the time of her birth. She grew up spoiled, often displayed temper tantrums if she didn鈥檛 get what she wanted and received little guidance about acceptable behavior from anyone in her family. It was no wonder that her father sought to hire a tutor for Violeta to teach her etiquette and proper behavior. Miss Josephine Taylor was hired and became a strong influence on shaping Violeta鈥檚 character and determination. The two women learned so much from each other and continued to keep in touch, see each other and seek advice and counsel from each other long after Miss Taylor was Violeta鈥檚 tutor.
Violeta grew up during the Spanish Influenza and survived only to live through Covid years later. She and her family were greatly affected by the Great Depression which altered their lives in ways not one of them could have predicted. Violeta lived through World War II, the Cuban Revolution and the upheavals in the government of Chile. Violeta disclosed the saga of her life in an ongoing letter to Camilo, someone that she cared for a great deal. Violeta revealed how she abandoned her first marriage for a pilot she fell hopelessly in love with. She finally admitted and came to the realization that she was abused both physically and mentally in that relationship. Years later, that impressionable part of her life led Violeta to start a foundation to aid women that were victims of domestic violence.
Violeta lived through significant times in history. Isabel Allende magnificently wrote about the courage Violeta had to possess in order to be able to stand up to what she believed in. Her life was rich, colorful and mostly fulfilling. It did have its set backs and challenges but through it all Violeta became stronger. I believe that perhaps her main regret was not having a better relationship with her son and daughter. I did not want this book to end, it was so well written and impeccably researched. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Ballantine Books for allowing me to read the digital version of Violeta by Isabel Allende through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Violeta Del Valle was born in the year 1920 somewhere in South America. She was the only girl child in her family. Her mother had had five sons before Violeta was born. Everyone was ecstatic to welcome a girl into their family. Violeta had a mind of her own that stemmed back to the time of her birth. She grew up spoiled, often displayed temper tantrums if she didn鈥檛 get what she wanted and received little guidance about acceptable behavior from anyone in her family. It was no wonder that her father sought to hire a tutor for Violeta to teach her etiquette and proper behavior. Miss Josephine Taylor was hired and became a strong influence on shaping Violeta鈥檚 character and determination. The two women learned so much from each other and continued to keep in touch, see each other and seek advice and counsel from each other long after Miss Taylor was Violeta鈥檚 tutor.
Violeta grew up during the Spanish Influenza and survived only to live through Covid years later. She and her family were greatly affected by the Great Depression which altered their lives in ways not one of them could have predicted. Violeta lived through World War II, the Cuban Revolution and the upheavals in the government of Chile. Violeta disclosed the saga of her life in an ongoing letter to Camilo, someone that she cared for a great deal. Violeta revealed how she abandoned her first marriage for a pilot she fell hopelessly in love with. She finally admitted and came to the realization that she was abused both physically and mentally in that relationship. Years later, that impressionable part of her life led Violeta to start a foundation to aid women that were victims of domestic violence.
Violeta lived through significant times in history. Isabel Allende magnificently wrote about the courage Violeta had to possess in order to be able to stand up to what she believed in. Her life was rich, colorful and mostly fulfilling. It did have its set backs and challenges but through it all Violeta became stronger. I believe that perhaps her main regret was not having a better relationship with her son and daughter. I did not want this book to end, it was so well written and impeccably researched. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Ballantine Books for allowing me to read the digital version of Violeta by Isabel Allende through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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