Plot Summary

Sworn Virgin

Elvira Dones
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Sworn Virgin

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007

Book Brief

Elvira Dones

Sworn Virgin

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Albania • 2000s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Sworn Virgin by Elvira Dones centers on Hana Doda, a young Albanian woman compelled by traditional laws to adopt a male identity as the sworn virgin Mark Doda, maintaining this facade for 15 years until she emigrates to the US. In America, she resides with her cousin Lila, grappling with reclaiming her femininity and finding her true identity amidst cultural and personal upheaval. The novel addresses topics of gender identity, societal expectations, and personal transformation.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Challenging

Emotional

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.7

885 ratings

56%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sworn Virgin by Elvira Dones has been praised for its exploration of gender identity and tradition in Albania, giving readers a rich cultural perspective. Critics appreciate the novel's evocative prose and its nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's struggle. However, some found the pacing uneven and desired deeper character development.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sworn Virgin?

A reader who would enjoy Sworn Virgin by Elvira Dones is likely captivated by cultural transformations and strong female protagonists. Fans of Elif Shafak's The Bastard of Istanbul or Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns will appreciate the exploration of identity, gender roles, and the clash between tradition and modernity.

3.7

885 ratings

56%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Albania • 2000s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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