Plot Summary

Corelli's Mandolin

Louis De Bernières
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Corelli's Mandolin

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994

Book Brief

Louis De Bernières

Corelli's Mandolin

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cephalonia, Greece • 1940s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières, set on the Greek island of Cephalonia during World War II, follows Italian soldier Captain Antonio Corelli and Greek doctor Pelagia Iannis as they navigate life, love, and occupation amidst the war. Despite Pelagia's initial engagement to another man, she and Corelli form a deep emotional bond, striving for hope and connection in uncertain times. The book contains scenes of war violence and trauma.

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Romantic

Humorous

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.3

89,631 ratings

74%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Louis De Bernières' Corelli's Mandolin is praised for its rich historical detail and vibrant characters, set against the backdrop of WWII in Greece. Readers appreciate its blend of romance, humor, and tragedy. Critics note that the pacing can be slow and the narrative occasionally meanders. Still, its emotional depth and lyrical prose leave a strong impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Corelli's Mandolin?

A reader who enjoys Corelli's Mandolin appreciates historical fiction intertwined with romance and war. Fans of Gabriel García Márquez's Love in the Time of Cholera and Michael Ondaatje's The English Patient will find its melodic prose, detailed characters, and emotional depth appealing. Ideal for those who value rich storytelling and cultural immersion.

4.3

89,631 ratings

74%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cephalonia, Greece • 1940s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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