Reviews - Les Misérables | The StoryGraph

4.13k reviews for:

This is the second time I've gotten through this massive masterpiece of literature, though it was several years ago, and I had forgotten a lot of the more complicated plot points. I find myself enjoying it even more as I notice more about the intricacies of the story. I definitely don't think a book of this magnitude and complexity would do well in today's publishing world. Still, I do love the way Hugo dropped breadcrumbs throughout the story and detailed histories here and there that ultimately led toward an upcoming event in the narrative. I loved guessing at how this mysterious character could be only to find out I already knew them by another name. The curiosity of wondering if my guesses at their identity would be correct. I treasure this story of a man's redemption and the awful realities of the world not being very fair at all, especially to the poor.

pennwing's review against another edition

4.0

challenging emotional hopeful reflective 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: Yes

marirosebel's review against another edition

4.25

adventurous dark sad medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

So many say this is a slow paced book, and i disagree. It's a fast paced book that gets interrupted by these long ass tangents that have fuck all to do with the plot.
So much of this book reminded me of the current times, and my society. It was truly fascinating to see the overlap.
So much of this story was so cruel. And so much of it was goodness. Somehow, after almost 1500 pages, I wanted more. I hope Cosette forgives herself, I hope Marius becomes an honest and good lawmaker. And everyone else- I hope they find peace since this book has a higher body count than the French revolution.
Pro-tip: in this edition of the book, only the last 5 pages of the Waterloo chapter is relevant.