9.59k reviews for:

Anna Karenina

Leo Tolstoy

3.97 AVERAGE


More than a story following a plotline, you have the feeling that Tolstoy only focused on creating the characters and then set them free upon the page. They come through and seem to find a life of their own, while the author is throwing them further and further into a desperate situation.

Anna Karenina accompanies the life of its namesake and of Constantine Levin, as well as the intermingling lifes of their acquaintances. They act as two parallels to understating our role in the world in two very different paths and results.
reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A perfect novel. Worried it may have ruined other books for me. Each character is so well-drawn and complex, and Tolstoy expertly explores the titular characters son and madness without condemnation. I do have to come down on the side of not particularly liking Vronsky, though. I do not believe in the goodness of his and Anna’s love. Perhaps I will have more to say later.
challenging emotional reflective slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
emotional reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional funny reflective sad medium-paced

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
emotional slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
challenging slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character

just so many scenes about Russians on a farm

“He looked at her as a man might look at a faded flower he had plucked, in which it was difficult for him to trace the beauty that had made him pick and so destroy it”

the moments of passion, the profound emotional turmoil and deep introspection found within these pages are truly unforgettable. i went through every emotion imaginable reading this book. the brilliance of Tolstoy's mind shines through in his rich and descriptive writing, painting vivid sceneries and presenting these characters that are beautifully woven together with all their own complexities, struggles and desires. i found a deeper level of appreciation and attachment for this book and the characters upon a reread.
emotional inspiring reflective slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Skip the hay-cutting chapters unless you're into agricultural existentialism