Violeta, by Isabel Allende

hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It’s complicated

4.0 stars This historical epic novel is written as a letter from Violeta to Camilo about her life – a relationship we come to understand later in the book. Spanning a century and several countries and loves, Violeta is a lot stronger than she recognizes. We see over the course of her life that began in one pandemic and ends during another –  that  political upheaval, war, poverty, domestic abuse, tragedy, and grief are ever present but we don’t need to accept or succumb to what the world throws at us. 

I love how Violeta grows and learns from life lessons – not in a way that sanitizes the suffering, but in a way that is rooted in finding her place in the world and leveraging her privilege. From the people who touch her and those she touches who are closest to her and those whose lives are impacted through the ripples she creates, we see how one life finds its place in the enormity of time and place. It’s a beautiful story that reflects the imperfect lives we lead that are filled with joy and love and meaning even in the midst of challenge. I almost wish it could have been longer to go deeper into different periods of her life. I was especially moved by the way she lives in the second half of life – she flourishes as she awakens to self awareness and she embodies her best self. 

Some minor critiques: 

• The way it was written to Camilo felt disjointed. For most of the book, it didn’t really matter that it is was a letter. Talking about Camilo in the third person in some places and then in others recounting memories that he would have shared didn’t feel natural to me. A cover letter and closing would have been more seamless. 
• The name of their home country is not identified. Perhaps this was to allow for literary license around the political climate, but the use of “our country” seemed a little distracting. 
• It was hard for me to keep track of all of the characters especially since many of them are referred to inconsistently. Also there were several J names of men close to Violetta which took more of an effort. It was helpful to have connections and reminders woven in – especially later in the book. 

Overall, beautiful and moving writing as expected from Isabel Allende. I appreciate the ARC from  Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine, Ballantine Books #VioletaEnglishEdition #NetGalley