The Shadow of the Wind

An uncannily absorbing historical mystery, a heart-piercing romance, and a moving homage to the mystical power of books, The Shadow of the Wind is a triumph of the storyteller's art.

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487 pages

Average rating: 7.84

279 RATINGS

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8 REVIEWS

Community Reviews

Anonymous
Mar 23, 2024
8/10 stars
4.5 stars!

Wow, what a roller coaster. Although this book isn't the epitome of literature or anything like that, it was just a fun read. I found the story, despite the almost soap opera-esq nature of some of the events, quite original and a nail-biter as more and more unfortunate things started happening. I also really enjoyed the backdrop of Barcelona, and I really liked the writing style that Zafon used through the story. I also liked the parall...read more
Varthyillai88
Nov 11, 2023
9/10 stars
Melancholic and beautiful prose, I felt transported into the gothic atmosphere of a post civil-war Spain. It was a haunting read that will continue to hold a special place in my heart. RIP to a great writer.
richardbakare
Aug 17, 2023
9/10 stars
When someone recommends me a book I’ve never heard of by an equally unknown author, I approach it with extreme reservation. This one I leapt into because the friend likened it to the wonder you experience reading “100 Years of Solitude.” That friend was spot on in their comparison. Don’t be daunted by the heft of this tome. For every page tightens or loosens this Gordian Knot of mysteries. Every manner of topic is covered by Zafon. From book bu...read more
arockc
Apr 14, 2023
I'm not sharing this "review" with anyone outside this grouo. These are my first thought ramblings, just to get something down here. This felt like a great mystery movie, in writing. Who is Lain Coubait (sp?) And why is he burning the books of Julian Carax? Will Daniel ever be with his true love? Will Fermin evade his arch nemesis? What is Fumero's real objective and motivation? So many mysteries! So much action! I am left with questions though...read more
Anonymous
Apr 07, 2023
8/10 stars
Very addictive, enticing read. I enjoyed the characters, the mystery, the intertwining narratives, the historical context, the twists, the beautiful turns of phrase. Loved it all. Would definitely recommend. It also has a wonderful undercurrent appreciation for books and reading which I share and was heightened by such an enjoyable novel!

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