3.4 AVERAGE


This is such a wonderful work of fiction that reads very convincingly like it is non-fiction. It opened up my eyes to the greater mysteries in life and made me examine how I am choosing to live and who I want to be.

I couldn't put the book down. It is definitely worth the read!!
vaudevillianveteran's profile picture

vaudevillianveteran's review

3.25
challenging dark informative inspiring reflective sad fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

petmom's review

1.0
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

This book was not for me.  After page 150, I skimmed it quickly to get to the end.  I found this book incredibly boring and nothing ever really happens.  Her murder was about the most exciting part but then it was over.  I really enjoyed The Alchemist so I’m disappointed in this book.  The title is intriguing but what’s inside isn’t, at least not for me.  I didn’t feel anything like I did with The Alchemist.  I found this book pretty pointless.  I felt whatever the message was, it was lost on me and that was probably because the story itself was a dull read and didn’t pull me in.  Reading about the dancing, trances, teachers and protectors was a complete snooze fest.  I probably won’t read another one of his books anymore.  I’ll just keep The Alchemist near and dear to my heart.  
informative inspiring reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

It had been quite some time since I last picked up a book by Paulo Coelho, and I couldn't recall which one I had read previously. However, this latest story sparked a deep sense of nostalgia and reminded me of why I hold his writing dear. Coelho's narratives are often infused with a sense of wonder, compelling readers to ponder profound emotions and explore thoughts that might otherwise remain buried.

As I delved into the story, I experienced a whirlwind of feelings—rage, frustration, and most importantly, a sense of revival that I hadn’t felt in a long time. This book served as a powerful reminder of the myriad beliefs I hold close to my heart. Just when I thought the narrative might veer into disappointment, it instead culminated in a way that left me feeling fulfilled and reflective.

The protagonist, Athena, is an extraordinary character who embodies passion and intensity; she loves with a depth that is both beautiful and consuming. Her selflessness drives her to give endlessly to those around her, yet she grapples with an insatiable dissatisfaction—a feeling I find unsettling, particularly because I have reached a different point in my own life. I now embrace a sense of contentment with my simpler, more basic existence. The idea of self-sacrifice and the pursuit of awakening others for their benefit no longer resonates with me as it once did, at least not in the same way.

This book had lingered on my shelves for years, patiently waiting for me to discover it. Now that I have finally read it, I feel a sense of fulfillment, even if I am uncertain whether I will revisit it in the future. Nevertheless, I wholeheartedly recommend it to others who are open to exploring the complex nature of love and personal growth.

My least favorite Coelho book so far. More mystical and syncretistic than his others.

kshimer's review

DID NOT FINISH

A little too out there on the astral plane for me. Couldn't finish it.

The story is same old, same old Coelho. The soul search, with lots of optimism and encouragment to go ahead with what you believe in, regardless of the consequenses and difficulties. what is new in this book is the amazing technique. It keeps you thinking. It teazes your mind into looking beyond the story and philosophy into the beauty of arranging the story and the characters. I bought 2 books at the same time. this and another (I'm not going to say the title to avoid ofence). I dragged myself through reading a few pages. Then I got bored and threw it aside. I started reading this book hopelessly, fearing it will be just as boring. This was 4 days ago. I couldn't drop the book till I've finished it. I took every moment in my tight schedule, stayed up all night yesterday to finish it, knowing what to expect. Still I read on enthusiastically, as if I were bewitched.
It must be the witch, Athena!
For someone who hasn't read a Coelho before, this is a must read.

Weirdly profound, the book shook me in some ways (such as Athena's feelings of abandonment and unrest), awed me in others (the profound teachings of the Mother) and slightly bored me sometimes (it kind of dragged). Still, Coelho is one of my favorite authors that doesn't disappoint.

I like it. It was fun and interesting.
hopeful mysterious reflective