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677
Novel • Fiction
California • 1790s
2005
Adult
18+ years
Zorro by Isabel Allende is a historical fiction novel chronicling the origins of Diego de la Vega, who becomes the masked vigilante Zorro. Set in Spanish colonial California and France, the narrative traces Diego's upbringing, education, and adventures, highlighting his deep sense of justice, romance with Juliana, rivalry with Rafael Moncada, and initiation into a secret organization. The novel depicts graphic violence, sexual assault, and racism.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Romantic
Humorous
Inspirational
23,681 ratings
Loved it
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Isabel Allende's Zorro is praised for its rich narrative and well-developed characters, offering a fresh take on the legendary hero. Reviewers commend the engaging storytelling and historical depth, though some criticize the pacing as uneven. Overall, it skillfully blends adventure and cultural insight, appealing to fans of historical fiction and folklore alike.
Readers who relish swashbuckling adventures, rich historical settings, and dynamic character development will love Zorro by Isabel Allende. Fans of The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas or Captain Alatriste by Arturo Pérez-Reverte will find Allende's vibrant narrative style and engaging plot equally captivating.
23,681 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Bernardo
Diego's loyal childhood friend and ally, who communicates without speaking and eventually shares in Diego's double life as a second Zorro.
Rafael Moncada
The main antagonist of the story, a wealthy and powerful man who employs deceit and corruption in an attempt to further his ambitions.
Toypurnia/Regina
Diego's mother, who is a Shoshone warrior and part of his dual heritage, providing him with a strong sense of cultural identity and values.
Alejandro de la Vega
Diego's father, a traditional Spanish aristocrat and landowner who upholds his cultural beliefs but deeply cares for Diego's upbringing.
White Owl
Diego's spiritual Shoshone grandmother who guides him in his understanding of Indigenous values and his personal development.
Isabel de Romeu
A lively and spirited friend of Diego and Bernardo, and the story's narrator, who plays a supportive role in adventures while developing her own skills.
Juliana de Romeu
Diego's love interest, known for her beauty and kindness, who chooses to pursue a life of adventure rather than settle for traditional roles.
Padre Mendoza
A Franciscan friar who mentors Diego in justice and fairness, exemplifying coexistence between Spanish and Indigenous cultures.
Eulalia de Callís
A strong-willed and influential widow who aids those in need but also represents the complexities of aristocratic power.
Maestro Manuel Escalante
A fencing maestro who becomes Diego's mentor in Spain, introducing him to a secret society focused on justice.
Tomás de Romeu
A generous and fatherly figure who hosts Diego in Spain, holding progressive views while retaining certain traditional attitudes.
Nuria
The dedicated and protective chaperone of the de Romeu sisters, who accompanies them throughout their journeys.
Jean Lafitte
A charismatic pirate who captures Diego and others on their way to California, playing a significant rival and influence on Diego.
Lolita Pulida
A compassionate supporter of Diego's cause, eventually becoming an important figure in his personal life.
Amalia
A Romani woman who aids Diego and Bernardo, forming a close bond with them while challenging certain cultural constraints.
Carlos Alcázar
A childhood rival of Diego and Bernardo who maintains his bullying ways into adulthood, eventually becoming a corrupt governor.
677
Novel • Fiction
California • 1790s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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