Books by "Vicente Blasco Ibáñez"
11 books found
"The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Part I" by Vicente Blasco Ibanez is a riveting historical novel set against the backdrop of World War I, weaving a tale of love, betrayal, honor, and loss within the context of a sweeping family saga. Blasco Ibanez's rich narrative transports readers from Argentina to France, immersing them in the tumultuous events of the Great War and its profound impact on individuals and families. As the conflict unfolds, the characters grapple with the harsh realities of war, navigating complex relationships and moral dilemmas amidst the chaos and devastation of battle. Through vivid storytelling and intricate character development, Blasco Ibanez captures the essence of the era, offering readers a glimpse into the human experience during one of history's most tumultuous periods. Set within the broader context of Spanish literature, "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Part I" stands as a testament to Blasco Ibanez's skill as a storyteller, blending historical accuracy with compelling drama to create a captivating narrative that resonates with readers. At its core, the novel is a poignant exploration of the enduring themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle for survival in the face of adversity.
"From the lowest ranks of poverty to unprecedented heights of riches and popular acclaim-thus was the career of Juan Gallardo, Spanish bull fighter. In telling his story, Ibanez has achieved a novel even more dramatic and powerful than his legendary Four Horsemen. From his boyhood Juan longed to be a bull fighter and, as he climbs the ladder step by step, the reader lives with him in the very atmosphere of the arena. No detail of the picture is spared-one can see and almost hear the actual battle-the crowds-the many characters that stream through the pages. And Juan himself, with his vanities, his superstitions, his daring attacks, his wounds and recoveries, emerges as real, vital and colorful as the sport to which he and many others dedicated their lives."--Goodreads
Jaime Febrer arose at nine o'clock. Old Antonia, the faithful servant who cherished the memory of the past glories of the family, and who had attended upon Jaime from the day of his birth, had been bustling about the room since eight o'clock in the hope of awakening him. As the light filtering through the transom of a broad window seemed too dim, she flung open the worm-eaten blinds. Then she raised the gold-fringed, red, damask drapery which hung like an awning over the ample couch, the ancient, lordly, and majestic couch in which many generations of Febrers had been born and in which they had died.The night before, on returning from the Casino, Jaime had charged her most earnestly to arouse him early, as he was invited to breakfast at Valldemosa. Time to get up! It was the finest of spring mornings; in the garden birds were singing in the flowery branches swayed by the breeze that blew over the wall from the sea.The old servant, seeing that her master had at last decided to get out of bed, retreated to the kitchen. Jaime Febrer strolled about the room before the open window almost nude. There was no danger of his being seen. The dwelling opposite was an old palace like his own, a great house with few win-dows. From his room he could see a wall of indefinite color, with deep scars, and faint traces of ancient frescoes. It was so near, the street being extremely narrow, that it seemed as if he might touch it with his hand.