"Lies of Savolta" written by Eduardo Mendoza is an extraordinary historical mystery novel that takes place in early 20th century Barcelona. The narrative revolves around the protagonist, a journalist named Dario Lancini, who embarks on a mission to unravel the murder of the prominent industrialist, Savolta. As Dario delves into the case, he finds himself entangled in a complex web of political conspiracies, corporate avarice, and personal secrets.
Mendoza's storytelling skills are exceptional, as he effortlessly paints a vivid picture of the social and political landscape of Barcelona during the 1910s. The city is deeply divided, marked by stark class differences and ideological clashes, with simmering tensions between the working class and the wealthy upper class. Through his expertly crafted descriptions and thorough historical research, the author successfully transports readers to this fascinating period in history.
The characters in "Lies of Savolta" are incredibly well-developed, displaying depth and complexity. Dario Lancini, in particular, is a captivating protagonist driven by an unwavering pursuit of the truth, haunted by his own personal demons. The supporting cast, which includes revolutionaries, corrupt businessmen, and enigmatic women, adds layers of intrigue and excitement to the narrative.
Available on Audible
What sets Mendoza apart is his seamless integration of historical fact with compelling fiction. The novel draws upon real events and notable figures from Barcelona's history, skillfully incorporating them into the story in a manner that feels authentic and compelling.
In conclusion, "Lies of Savolta" is an enthralling and thought-provoking novel. Mendoza's impeccable storytelling, rich historical backdrop, and complex characters make this book an absolute must-read. Whether you have a penchant for historical fiction, enjoy a good mystery, or simply appreciate a beautifully crafted narrative, this book is guaranteed to captivate and satisfy.
What are readers saying?
Eduardo Mendoza's novel "La verdad sobre el caso Savolta" has received a mixed reception among readers. Set in early 20th century Barcelona, this Spanish-language book delves into the enigmatic murder of a prominent industrialist. With an average rating of 3.77 out of 5, the overall consensus indicates a generally positive response from readers.
Many reviewers highly praised Mendoza's ability to vividly capture the atmosphere of Barcelona during that time period. They found his depiction to be richly detailed and immersive, effectively conveying the political and social backdrop of the city. Some even drew comparisons between Mendoza's writing style and that of acclaimed authors Gabriel García Márquez and Mario Vargas Llosa, praising his ability to transport readers to the era.
Nevertheless, some readers found the plot of the novel to be convoluted and confusing, making it challenging to follow the story. They felt that the numerous characters and their relationships were not sufficiently developed, resulting in a lack of emotional connection. In addition, certain sections of the book were perceived as dragging, while others felt rushed, leading to an uneven pacing.
Despite these criticisms, the majority of readers acknowledged and appreciated Mendoza's writing style and linguistic prowess. The eloquent and engaging use of language was seen as a strength, allowing for a vivid portrayal of both the setting and the characters. The book was also recognized as a valuable contribution to Spanish literature, particularly in its exploration of historical events and societal issues of the time.
Overall, "La verdad sobre el caso Savolta" received a mix of reviews. While some readers were enthralled by Mendoza's immersive writing style and detailed depiction of Barcelona, others found the plot confusing and the character development lacking. Despite these critiques, the novel was generally commended for its linguistic quality and historical context, making it a worthwhile choice for those interested in Spanish literature and early 20th century Barcelona.
LaVerdadSobreElCasoSavolta BookRecommendations SpanishLiterature