This is the story of Violeta, born in 1920, amidst the Spanish flu. Violeta, who, despite her roles as daughter, student, sister, wife, business partner, lover, mother, teacher, philanthropist, grandmother, friend, and leader, remains, above all, herself. In true Allende style, this novel is beautifully written, emotionally charged, and articulately crafted. Allende transports the reader to her beloved South America, immersing us in the culture, scenery, and climate. As Violeta tells us about the ups and downs, twists and turns of her life, we travel along with her, raising her children, falling in love, fighting for change.
I have been reading Isabel Allende’s work since my early 20s. This review doesn’t begin to convey the magic that lives within the pages of her novels. She tells beautiful stories, but she does so much more than that. She inspires and enlightens, but also chastises and scolds. An Allende novel is an experience that must be felt to be understood. It’s almost as if I can hear her telling me, “Now you know. What are you going to do with the knowledge?” Violeta, like so many of Allende’s strong female characters before her, reminds me that I have a responsibility to see the world for what it is – both beautiful and ugly. Embrace and appreciate the beautiful, fight like hell against the ugly.
This book hits shelves on January 25, 2022 and I 100% recommend this and every other Allende work.
Thanks to Isabel Allende, Ballentine Books and Netgalley for this ARC in return for my honest review.
