A review by hermusings
The Story of a New Name by Elena Ferrante

reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Very few stories are as rich as this. Going into the second novel, it added tremendous weight to know (and in a way have lived) the lore that occurred in the first book.

Lila and Lenu have me stressed at every turn. Their stories are so peculiar and singular yet written in such a way that it resonates with my human experience in an alarming amount of ways.

That’s not to mention the prose, the parallels & foreshadowing made; along with the thought provoking commentary on class, gender upbringing and love.

As I felt with the first book, this was so rich that I need time to digest before even thinking of picking up the next book. Truly feels like I’ve just lived through something