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A review by theknitpick
The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Keyword descriptors: slow-paced, family-oriented, historical details
I am astounded by the details and the intricacy of this story. Allende's writing is masterful and it's shocking to know this was her debut novel. I wish I loved the characters more, but sadly most of them were just so out there that it was hard for me to connect with them. I was continually disturbed by how easily the women of this story forgave the violence and horrors that male characters (specifically one character) continued to wreak on them when they are so often portrayed as strong women with conviction. It was also hard to digest that the one character I dislike above all continued to live throughout the story and, despite his despicableness, gets a peaceful, somewhat happy ending.
I've also been learning that family sagas are just not my thing. Occasionally I can get into it, but overall it's hard for me to get excited about generation after generation of one family. I'm also not the biggest fan of magical realism, but this story was alright. I accepted it because it was embraced fully and Allende committed to it. I just wish that I cared more about the characters themselves so that I could rate this book higher.
I am astounded by the details and the intricacy of this story. Allende's writing is masterful and it's shocking to know this was her debut novel. I wish I loved the characters more, but sadly most of them were just so out there that it was hard for me to connect with them. I was continually disturbed by how easily the women of this story forgave the violence and horrors that male characters (specifically one character) continued to wreak on them when they are so often portrayed as strong women with conviction. It was also hard to digest that the one character I dislike above all continued to live throughout the story and, despite his despicableness, gets a peaceful, somewhat happy ending.
I've also been learning that family sagas are just not my thing. Occasionally I can get into it, but overall it's hard for me to get excited about generation after generation of one family. I'm also not the biggest fan of magical realism, but this story was alright. I accepted it because it was embraced fully and Allende committed to it. I just wish that I cared more about the characters themselves so that I could rate this book higher.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Torture, and Abortion
Minor: Pedophilia