Reviews

Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

saiddaa's review against another edition

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5.0

I must admit, I am absolutely over the moon after reading Les Misérables by Victor Hugo. What an extraordinary journey it has been! From the very first page to the last, I was completely enthralled by Hugo's unparalleled ability to weave a captivating and emotionally charged story.
The depth and complexity of the characters in this novel are nothing short of remarkable. Jean Valjean's transformation from a hardened convict to a compassionate and noble soul touched my heart in ways I cannot put into words. His struggles, his redemption, and his unwavering commitment to justice resonate with me even after closing the book.
Hugo's vivid and evocative descriptions transport you right into the heart of 19th-century France. The atmospheric settings, from the bustling streets of Paris to the desolate prison islands, were brought to life with such finesse that I could almost smell the air and feel the cobblestones beneath my feet.
But what struck me the most was Hugo's ability to intertwine historical context seamlessly with the characters' lives. The social commentary on poverty, inequality, and the human condition was both thought-provoking and eye-opening. Through the lives of Jean Valjean, Fantine, Cosette, and Marius, I came to understand the harsh realities faced by the less fortunate during that turbulent era.
As the plot unfolded, I found myself deeply invested in the destinies of these characters, their joys, their sorrows, and their unwavering pursuit of love and justice. The various plot threads weaved together masterfully, each contributing to the overarching tapestry of the narrative.
Reading Les Misérables was not a literary experience; it was an emotional journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Victor Hugo's brilliant storytelling has left an indelible mark on my soul. I can confidently say that this timeless masterpiece has earned its place among my all-time favorite books.
If you seek a tale that delves into the very essence of humanity, where the triumph of the human spirit shines against all odds, then Les Misérables is an absolute must-read. I cannot recommend it enough, you too will be left in awe of Victor Hugo's storytelling prowess.

grievingfortheliving's review against another edition

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slow-paced

3.0

cyaneve7's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

axi_on's review against another edition

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5.0

the les mis reading experience is feeling awash in the most intense wave of tragedy and understanding of the perseverance of the human spirit, love, redemption, compassion, and morality and then immediately getting hit with a hundred pages intricately detailing the parisian sewer system

and yet, it never stops me from coming back time and time again to cry my heart out over these characters. enjolras & grantaire you will always have a very special place in my heart <3

simonecim's review against another edition

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4.0

do you hear the people sing?

spinescens's review against another edition

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DNF @ 43%

river_jean_sterling's review against another edition

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challenging sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

marymerrick's review against another edition

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Hugo wrote too many extraneous passages so it was too difficult for me to pull out the story and enjoy it.  I did not enjoy the history, or all of the confused identity twists. 
I enjoyed Part 1&2 and the story of Jean Valjean and Cosette but that was about it. 
The writing never clicked for me. 

bucketsofdirt's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark reflective sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

anettseda's review against another edition

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slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0