The Leopard

by Jo Nesbo
The Leopard cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Historical Fiction
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Format • £16.14
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  • ID: 4164
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781407086095
  • Published: 2011-03-22
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3

The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa is a masterful exploration of the decline of the aristocracy during the Risorgimento, the period of Italian unification. Set in Sicily, the novel follows the Prince of Salina as he grapples with the shifting political and social landscape, ultimately leading to the fading of his family's power and influence. Beyond its rich historical backdrop, the novel delves deeply into the personal and emotional struggles of its characters, offering a poignant reflection on change, tradition, and the passage of time. Lampedusa's lyrical prose and vivid descriptions bring the world of 19th-century Sicily to life, making it a timeless classic of world literature.

Reviews
Mum of Three World · 2014-09-05
thrilling 4.50

The Leopard is a favorite among Jo Nesbo's novels, even surpassing the popular The Snowman. It's a thrilling and well-crafted story.

This novel stands out as a favorite for many readers, including the reviewer, who finds it even better than the widely acclaimed The Snowman. The story is thrilling and well-crafted, with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is engaging from start to finish. The novel's ability to captivate readers and provide a satisfying reading experience makes it a standout in Nesbo's repertoire. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is palpable, highlighting its strengths and why it's a must-read for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    Yes, The Leopard is my favourite Jo Nesbo novel of all. Even better than the mighty The Snowman, which tends to top most people's lists and is a ...

    The story is thrilling and well-crafted, with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

    The characters are well-developed, and the plot is engaging from start to finish.

A Crime Reader's Blog · 2012-05-09
chilling 3.50

The story is chilling and gruesome, showcasing the dark side of crime fiction. It leaves readers questioning the depths of human depravity.

This novel is a prime example of how a good crime story should be told. It's chilling, gruesome, and violent, which might not be for the faint-hearted. The plot is so dark and twisted that it leaves you wondering how such things can be imagined. The novel's ability to delve into the darker aspects of human nature is both its strength and its challenge, making it a thought-provoking read. The storytelling is compelling, but it's not for everyone.

Quick quotes

    The story is how a good crime novel should be, its chilling, gruesome and violent and leaves you wandering how people think these things up.

    The novel's ability to delve into the darker aspects of human nature is both its strength and its challenge.

    The storytelling is compelling, but it's not for everyone.

The Guardian · 2011-01-21
engaging 4.00

The novel is a substantial yet accessible read, with a gripping plot that keeps readers engaged. The translation effectively captures the essence of the original work.

This sixth installment in the Harry Hole series is a meaty read, but it's surprisingly easy to get through. The plot is engaging and well-paced, making it a satisfying read for fans of crime fiction. The translation by Don Bartlett is noted for its ability to convey the nuances of the original Norwegian text, adding to the overall enjoyment of the book. The novel's strength lies in its ability to balance complexity with accessibility, making it a standout in the series.

Quick quotes

    The Leopard, the sixth Harry Hole novel to be published in Britain, is a big and meaty, but easily digestible, slab of a read, ably translated by Don Bartlett.

    The novel's strength lies in its ability to balance complexity with accessibility.

    The plot is engaging and well-paced, making it a satisfying read for fans of crime fiction.

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