Super Short Summary

In The Passion, Jeanette Winterson reimagines events from Napoleon Bonaparte’s reign through the intertwined stories of Henri, a young soldier in Napoleon's army, and Villanelle, a captivating Venetian. As they navigate war-torn Europe, they encounter disillusionment, love, and loyalty, ultimately leading to an unexpected conclusion in Venice. The novel addresses themes of war, love, and personal freedom, highlighting the complexities of human relationships and moral choices. The narrative contains sensitive themes, including discussions of war violence and the impact of trauma on mental health.