A review by viviuhler
The Belly of Paris by Émile Zola

dark informative reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I really loved all the descriptions and the symbolism that links food and gluttony to the corruption of Paris. I also learned a lot about mid 19th century Paris and the character conflicts were very interesting. I’ve read a good amount of Zolas books so far and this is one of the best ones.