A review by mazza57
A Long Petal of the Sea, by Isabel Allende
3.0
I received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review. I have read other Isabe Allende books and like this one find I am unable to give them more than a 3 star rating. In comparison to others this is mercifully short and avoids most of her hyperbole but it fails to give me the lyricism and beautify narrative that others see.
Based on true events ( I wondered if the Allende in the narrative was a relative of hers) I found her storytelling stilted in the telling of events although when recounting the more personal lives of her character she had a more pacy, interesting style. I think in comparison to others of her books I will retain this storyline in my memory better as she does make the main characters come alive in their stories.
I know many view Allende as a mistress of storytelling but having tried several of her books she just doesn't do it for me and I think I have now reached the limit. I am not sure i will try any more
Based on true events ( I wondered if the Allende in the narrative was a relative of hers) I found her storytelling stilted in the telling of events although when recounting the more personal lives of her character she had a more pacy, interesting style. I think in comparison to others of her books I will retain this storyline in my memory better as she does make the main characters come alive in their stories.
I know many view Allende as a mistress of storytelling but having tried several of her books she just doesn't do it for me and I think I have now reached the limit. I am not sure i will try any more