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Violeta

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Book Brief

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Isabel Allende

Violeta

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chile • 20th Century

Publication Year

2022

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Violeta by Isabel Allende is an epistolary novel in which Violeta Del Valle recounts her life to her grandson, Camilo, detailing her journey from a wealthy upbringing through historical and personal upheavals in an unnamed Latin American country. Spanning a century, the book explores themes of feminism, personal and political intersections, and life lessons, reflecting Violeta's resilience and activism. The source material features references to and descriptions of suicide, sexual assault, domestic abuse, anti-LGBTQ+ biases and slurs, and substance use and addiction.

Emotional

Nostalgic

Inspirational

Romantic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.2

104,486 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Isabel Allende's Violeta presents a compelling multi-generational narrative with rich historical context and vibrant characters. Reviewers praise its emotional depth and Allende's masterful storytelling. However, some find it lengthy and occasionally meandering. Overall, it is considered a poignant and engaging read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Violeta?

A reader who enjoys Violeta by Isabel Allende likely appreciates multigenerational sagas that blend history, romance, and political intrigue. Fans of The House of the Spirits by Allende or One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez will find this novel's rich storytelling and vibrant characters similarly engaging.

4.2

104,486 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Violeta Del Valle

The protagonist and narrator, Violeta is the youngest child in her family and grows from a stubborn child to an independent and resilient woman, with a deep focus on her financial and personal independence.

Violeta’s oldest brother, who takes responsibility for the family after their father’s downfall, maintaining loyalty and support toward Violeta throughout her life, and achieving success in his business.

Violeta’s first husband, a son of wealthy immigrants, whose love for Violeta is overshadowed by his personal rigid beliefs, creating a marriage that lacks compatibility.

The father of Violeta's children, known for his charm and adventurous spirit, but also for his cruel and mercenary nature, which impacts his relationship with Violeta.

Two of Violeta’s lovers; Roy, a detective who forms a genuine and respectful relationship with Violeta, and Harald, a diplomat who becomes her second husband, offering her love later in life.

Josephine, Violeta's governess from England, becomes integral to her life, while the Rivas family shelters and educates her, instilling progressive values.

Violeta’s children; Juan Martin, a gentle and politically active son, and Nieves, a bold daughter whose relationship with Violeta evolves through personal challenges.

Violeta’s adventurous and just-spirited grandson, who after his mother's death becomes a central and beloved figure in Violeta's life.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chile • 20th Century

Publication Year

2022

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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