September 17, 2014

Adultery


"I say that I've met a lot of people who are driven by obsessive jealousy, and not because they think their husband or wife is committing adultery, but because they would like to be the center of attention all the time, and they're not." ~ pg. 201

Paulo Coelho is one of the most influential writers of our time. Two of his bestsellers The Alchemist and Manuscript Found in Accra are what I call life-changing reads. Both are filled with gems that stick with me. When I saw a new release from international bestseller, I immediately pre-ordered a copy of Adultery. There is a reason his novels are translated into 80 languages and sold in more than 170 countries. And I was about to witness once again, why.

"Love always wants results, although, everyone insists, no, that the act of loving justifies itself." ~ pg. 215

The story is narrated by Linda; she is a mother of two children, married to a successful husband and is an accomplished journalist. Only in her thirties, she lives a privileged life that some people envy. All it took was one interview, one specific comment, by a famous writer to make her question everything. Behind the facade, Linda realized she is tired of having the "happy, perfect life." Her life is one big routine. No risks taken. No spontaneous days. No passion. Until she reignites a passionate relationship with a politician and begins living out fantasies in an affair. What is done in the dark always comes to light. Sure Linda's actions make her feel better now but are the deep emotions worth threatening the rest of her life?

"Dear Depression, please keep your distance." ~ pg. 29

Soon as my copy of Adultery was available, I settled in with a chilled drink, new bookmark and notepad. One thing is guaranteed when I read a Coelho novel: I will learn a lesson(s) that can be applied to my everyday life. Reading this novel raised several questions:
  • How do I balance life's routine with the desire for something new?
  • Are illnesses (such as depression) the result of repressed emotions?
  • Is it better to live a happy life or a passionate life?
  • Is passion strictly for the young?
  • Should adultery be a deal-breaker?
  • Is the most important lesson learning to love?

Do I recommend Adultery? Yes, especially for book clubs and readers' groups. Like the author says, adultery is an experience many people have had. Adultery is not the kind of novel you read and keep to yourself. It is meant to be discussed and generate thoughts. If my book review is not convincing enough, please watch the video below of author Paulo Coelho discussing new novel Adultery.


Title: Adultery
Author: Paulo Coelho
Published: August 2014
Pages: 257
Edition: Hardcover
Rating: ♥♥♥♥

  

4 comments:

  1. It is a pretty light read. Kind of formula based novel and lots of clich??. Had pre-ordered it with lots of expectation, flipkart delivered on time. Book lacks substance and for a Paulo Coelho fan, it is becoming a little repetitive.

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    1. I have to agree it lacks the Coelho substance. Light read but I expected so much more.

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  2. I haven't read a Coelho novel since The Alchemist. Although I enjoyed the book, I'm still not quite sure whether I like his style or not. But your ringing endorsement of Adultery has me curious and intrigued so I may jusy have to gibe him another go. Nice review.

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    1. Thanks, Jade. Let me know when you read ADULTERY and your opinion. Be warned it is not as enjoyable as ALCHEMIST.

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