Vendetta: a story of one forgotten   By: Marie Corelli (1855-1924)

Vendetta: A Story of One Forgotten by Marie Corelli is a gripping and thought-provoking tale that delves deep into the themes of love, revenge, and spirituality. Set in Italy during the late 19th century, Corelli masterfully brings together a cast of complex characters and a richly detailed backdrop that creates an immersive reading experience.

The story follows the life of Raffaello Cellini, a passionate and talented artist who finds himself consumed by the desire for vengeance. Raffaello's path intertwines with that of Fiordelisa, a beautiful young woman haunted by a tragic past. As their lives become entangled, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster journey through the twists and turns of fate.

What sets Vendetta apart from other novels of its time is Corelli's ability to portray raw human emotions with depth and sensitivity. The characters are deeply flawed, each torn between their desires and moral complexities, making for a captivating exploration of the human psyche.

Corelli's writing style is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid imagery that transports the reader right into the heart of Italy. From the bustling streets of Florence to the idyllic countryside, the settings are vividly described and serve as an almost tangible backdrop to the unfolding drama.

Furthermore, the exploration of spirituality and the role of destiny in the characters' lives adds a philosophical layer to the narrative. Corelli seamlessly weaves themes of redemption and forgiveness into the story, prompting readers to reflect on their own views on these concepts.

However, while the overall story is compelling, there are moments where the pacing slows down, and the plot feels slightly stretched. Certain sections could have been condensed without sacrificing the essence of the narrative, leading to a more dynamic reading experience.

Additionally, some readers may find Corelli's prose to be slightly melodramatic and embellished at times. Although it is a characteristic of the author's writing style, it could potentially be a stumbling block for those seeking a more restrained and realistic approach.

Overall, Vendetta: A Story of One Forgotten is a literary gem that seamlessly blends elements of romance, tragedy, and spiritual philosophy. Marie Corelli's vivid writing and deep exploration of human nature make this a truly unforgettable read. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, love stories, or philosophical sagas, this novel will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on your heart and mind.

First Page:

Lest those who read the following pages should deem this story at all improbable, it is perhaps necessary to say that its chief incidents are founded on an actual occurrence which took place in Naples during the last scathing visitation of the cholera in 1884. We know well enough, by the chronicle of daily journalism, that the infidelity of wives is, most unhappily, becoming common far too common for the peace and good repute of society. Not so common is an outraged husband's vengeance not often dare he take the law into his own hands for in England, at least, such boldness on his part would doubtless be deemed a worse crime than that by which he personally is doomed to suffer. But in Italy things are on a different footing the verbosity and red tape of the law, and the hesitating verdict of special juries, are not there considered sufficiently efficacious to sooths a man's damaged honor and ruined name. And thus whether right or wrong it often happens that strange and awful deeds are perpetrated deeds of which the world in general hears nothing, and which, when brought to light at last, are received with surprise and incredulity... Continue reading book >>