25 pages • 50 minutes read
The Passion
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Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
Europe • Napoleonic Era
1987
Grove Press
Adult
18+ years
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.
Mysterious
Dark
Fantastical
Emotional
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
25,575 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jeanette Winterson's The Passion blends historical fiction with magical realism, garnering praise for its lyrical prose and imaginative storytelling. Readers appreciate the vivid character development and the novel's exploration of love and obsession. Criticisms include a perceived lack of plot coherence and occasional ambiguity in narrative voice. Overall, a captivating, poetic read.
Who Should Read The Passion?
A reader who enjoys The Passion by Jeanette Winterson is likely captivated by lyrical prose, historical settings with a fantastical twist, and explorations of love and identity. Fans of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje will find similar themes of romance and evocative storytelling.
25,575 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Villanelle
Villanelle
A Venetian card dealer characterized by her independence and adventurous spirit, known for her refusal to be confined by societal norms.
The Cook
The Cook
An initially disgraced army cook who harbors resentment and later becomes entwined with Villanelle, symbolizing ambition and complexity.
Domino
Domino
A small yet spirited horse hand and boxer whose philosophy emphasizes living in the present, impacted profoundly by the events of war.
Patrick
Patrick
An ex-priest with remarkable eyesight who, despite his controversial past, finds friendship with Henri while serving in the army.
176
Novel • Fiction
Europe • Napoleonic Era
1987
Grove Press
Adult
18+ years
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