This so far is my favourite book of the Neapolitan novels. Maybe because Elena and Lila are now close to my age and are going through some of the same struggles as I have, but also because it's really interesting to see Elena maturing as the years go by, and seeing her getting closer to the voice that's narrating the book. 

Elena Ferrante has a great talent for giving voice to a woman's internal dialog, and the added theme of emerging feminism in the late '60s and early '70s makes it even more interesting.

In this 3rd book she also skillfully immersed the characters in the political turmoil surrounding Europe and was able to place both Elena and Lila as observers and actors in distinct positions in that scenario without taking away from the characters, but instead using this context to add even more depth and complexity to both women.

The ending was also breathtaking and will stay with me for a long time.