The Shadow of the Wind

"Listened to the audiobook on and off when available at the library. I loved the narrator’s voice and how he easily could change his tone enough to sound like someone else yet still know it was him speaking. Easily could be a voice actor.<br/><br/>I loved the fact the story was set in Spain and written by a Spaniard (I lived in Spain for over a year and it has my heart) so hearing about Las Ramblas or even the Catalan words such as Els Quatre Gats (the four cats —a cafe), I was remembering the streets I roamed in Barcelona as well as in regions like Badalona/Tarragona, etc., just picturing myself there even though it was a different time and the story is fictional.<br/><br/>Now, this book was what I imagined for a mystery thriller. The unknown incest, people committing dirty acts, lies, crimes that were gotten away without justice and some that were eventually punished/karma took care of, etc. This story to me felt like it had depth, for me it was a good pace, really good storytelling, and the characters were like a good complicated, chaotic mess of having lived rich histories or at least interesting lives. The book already won me over, even though I’m biased.<br/><br/>"

"Shamille"

"This was probably a 3.5 but I had to give it four stars because the first 50 pages I completely loved. The writing was exquisite."

"This book was marvelous and is officially one of my favorites! I feel like this is one of those books that touches you so deeply that it stays with you for all the days of your life. I love this book so much and was truly sad to read the last word."

"I almost gave up on this book, but I'm glad I didn't. It starts off as a dark, surreal fairy tale and eventually transforms into a gothic detective novel / tender love story. Very odd, but somehow it works. Ultimately though, this novel is Zafón's love song to Barcelona and its culture. The history of the city haunts the story as Zafón weaves in events from the Spanish civil war to make this a distinctly Spanish novel. His characters are simultaneously tragic and bursting with life - I loved Romero de Torres's wisecracks and Sempere's angsty stumbles. After taking us through some pretty dark places, Zafón brings together the many intertwined sub-narratives to a touching conclusion. The audiobook narration is pretty good too.<br/><br/>Review cross-posted from http://books.max-nova.com/shadow-of-the-wind/"

"I enjoyed this mysterious Gothic read set in Barcelona, even though the ending dragged on in a final letter to wrap up the plot, which was very annoying!"

"Such a beautiful novel.. Loved it"

"I loved this book! Fantastic writing and imagery and the story kept my attention and wanting more! So amazing!"

"<b>The Shadow of The Wind</b> is an outstanding, well-written, beautiful work of literary art! Carlos Ruiz Zafón has created a true masterpiece and why it has taken me this long to read is beyond me!<br/><br/>Based on some snarled reviews, I can understand why this story may not suit the taste of some readers. I truly feel it has more artistic flow than the ordinary "Historical Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy" reader may be used to. Also, this story is not by any means fast-paced. It is a long intricate story with numerous characters whose lives intertwine in very complicated, sometimes violent, and sometimes romantic ways. Also, the theme is often extremely dark. If you're looking for a light entertaining read, then you should probably look elsewhere.<br/><br/>Overall, I believe this is one of the best books I've ever read, and now seeing that it is book #1 in a series, I can't wait to get my hands on book #2!<br/>"

"Ultimately disappointing. A great beginning. Moody. But falls apart halfway through. Read Daniel 's review. Also I agree with the reviewer who pointed out the misogyny and homophobia."