"Shadow of the Wind" (A) and "Angel's Game" (A-)

I read these two books by Spanish author, Carlos Ruiz Zafon, one after the other, "Shadow of the Wind" first. "Shadow" was the first of the two translated into English, but chronologically, "Angel's Game" takes place before "Shadow."

Both novels are set in Barcelona, Spain. "Angel's Game" in the early 1900s, "Shadow" beginning around 1940.

I had heard about "Shadow" and looked it up on Amazon. I immediately had a huge disconnect. On the one hand, the description of the novel interested me not at all. Zero. The disconnect was because of "Shadow's" very high customer rating after over 500 reviews!

I was so doubtful that I would enjoy the novel that I borrowed it from the library rather than purchasing even a used copy. For some reason, I was enthralled from page 1. The novel is extremely well written (especially impressive given the translation), has terrific characters and a suspenseful story. The story is secondary, though, as it serves more as the vehicle for the study of the characters.

I then read "Angel's Game." I only give "Angel's Game" an A- because I read it second; I am curious if anyone who reads the books in reverse order will also enjoy the book read first a bit more. Again, phenomenal characters. Again, a suspenseful story. Again, very well written (and translated).

Both novels are essentially about book lovers for book lovers. The main character in "Shadow" owns (with his father) a second-hand bookstore; the main character in "Angel's Game" is an author.

I do not believe that any other Ruiz novels have been translated into English. I defer to anyone out there who is fluent in Spanish to provide a short outline of the premise for his other novels.