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49 pages 1 hour read

Paulette Jiles

Simon the Fiddler

Paulette JilesFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Paulette Jiles

Simon the Fiddler

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Texas • 1860s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Simon the Fiddler by Paulette Jiles, young fiddle player Simon navigates the turbulent post-Civil War Texan landscape to free Irish immigrant Doris from her indentured servanthood under a harsh family. Themes of war, violence, and assault are present. Simon encounters various challenges, including forced conscription, poverty, and violence, while relying on his musical talent and determination to reunite with and secure a future for Doris.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Romantic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

14,401 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Paulette Jiles' Simon the Fiddler captures readers with its lyrical prose, vivid historical settings, and compelling character development, particularly of the titular character. While some critics find the plot pacing slow at times, most praise the novel's rich storytelling and atmospheric details, cementing Jiles' reputation for evocative, historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Simon the Fiddler?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with rich character development and a touch of romance will relish Simon the Fiddler by Paulette Jiles. Fans of Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier and News of the World by Jiles herself will appreciate this post-Civil War tale of music, love, and survival.

4.1

14,401 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Texas • 1860s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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