"Le Diable l'emporte" by René Barjavel is an enthralling and thought-provoking novel that immerses readers into a world of time travel, morality, and the consequences of human choices. Set in the mid-20th century, the story revolves around François and Sylvie, a young couple who come across a mysterious time machine invented by the brilliant scientist Mathias. As they venture through different time periods, they confront challenging moral dilemmas and witness the destructive impact of human greed.

Barjavel's writing style is captivating and descriptive, effortlessly transporting readers to different historical eras with precision and rich details. Seamlessly merging the past, present, and future, the narrative keeps readers engaged and invested in the plot. The element of time travel adds a layer of suspense, as François and Sylvie find themselves entangled in a web of events that could have far-reaching repercussions for humanity.

One of the most intriguing aspects of "Le Diable l'emporte" is its exploration of human nature and the choices individuals make when confronted with power and temptation. Barjavel skillfully portrays the dark side of humanity, shedding light on the moral decay and selfishness that can arise when people are given the opportunity to manipulate historical events for personal gain.

Available on Audible

Get as a free audio book
Enter the world of darkness as the devil takes control

Furthermore, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of time and the potential consequences of altering history. Barjavel fearlessly examines the ethical complexities that arise from time travel, forcing readers to confront the implications of their actions and decisions.

In conclusion, "Le Diable l'emporte" is a gripping and intellectually stimulating novel that seamlessly blends elements of science fiction, historical fiction, and philosophical musings. René Barjavel's masterful storytelling and profound exploration of morality and time travel make this book a must-read for fans of the genre.

What are readers saying?

René Barjavel's book "Le Diable l'emporte" has garnered a mixed response from readers. Published in 1948, the novel delves into the concept of time travel and its impact on humanity. Reviews of the book emphasize its thought-provoking ideas, but also note its dense and intricate prose.

Some readers commend Barjavel for his skillful crafting of a complex and intricate plot. They appreciate the philosophical inquiries generated by the notion of time travel and its implications for the human experience. These readers find the book intellectually stimulating and praise Barjavel for challenging traditional thinking.

However, a portion of reviewers find the book difficult to engage with due to its dense and intricate writing style. They mention that the story can be confusing at times, with convoluted subplots and intricate characters. Some readers may struggle to connect with the characters or fully grasp the deeper meanings the author intended to convey.

On a positive note, many reviewers admire Barjavel's imaginative storytelling and his ability to create vivid and immersive settings. The detailed descriptions of different time periods and their social structures add depth to the novel, and readers applaud Barjavel for his rich world-building.

Despite some criticism, the novel receives praise for its ambitious exploration of themes such as love, power, and the human condition. Many readers appreciate the book's thought-provoking nature and its ability to challenge conventional notions about time and its effects on society.

LeDiableLEmporte FrenchLiterature BookRecommendations