This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here.
Isabel Allende, a Chilean-American author, has achieved widespread acclaim for her captivating works of magical realism and historical fiction. Her literary masterpieces intricately explore themes of love, family, politics, and social justice.
Allende’s unique writing style is characterized by the seamless blending of magical elements within realistic settings and historical backgrounds. Her narratives often delve into social and political activism, feminism, and the experiences of Latin American women.
This is a complete list of Isabel Allende books in order of publication, with summaries below each book. For your convenience, a printable list of Allende’s books is also attached at the bottom of this post.
Common Questions | Books in Order | Printable List
Common questions
1. What kind of books does Isabel Allende write?
Isabel Allende primarily writes works of magical realism and historical fiction. Her books often feature elements of fantasy and the supernatural blended with realistic settings, making her narratives both imaginative and grounded in historical events.
2. What themes does Isabel Allende’s writing explore?
Isabel Allende’s books frequently explore themes such as love, family dynamics, politics, social justice, social and political activism, feminism, and the experiences of Latin American women
3. Are there any recommended books for first-time readers of Isabel Allende?
If you are new to Isabel Allende’s works, a great starting point could be “The House of the Spirits” or “Eva Luna.” These novels showcase her signature blend of magical elements, historical settings, and engaging storytelling.
4. Which is Isabel Allende’s best book?
Opinions on Isabel Allende’s best book may vary, as her works appeal to different readers in unique ways. However, “The House of the Spirits” is often considered one of her most iconic and influential novels, making it a highly recommended starting point for readers exploring her bibliography.
5. Did Isabel Allende write historical novels?
Yes, Isabel Allende is known for her skillful weaving of historical contexts into her novels. Several of her books, such as “The House of the Spirits,” “Daughter of Fortune,” “Portrait in Sepia,” and “Inés of My Soul,” are set against significant historical backdrops, enriching the storytelling experience.
6. In what order should I read Isabel Allende books?
While Isabel Allende’s books are mostly standalone novels, reading them in chronological order of publication can provide a deeper understanding of her growth as an author.
Here’s a suggested reading order:
Standalone Novels:
- “The House of the Spirits” (1982)
- “Of Love and Shadows” (1984)
- “Eva Luna” (1986)
- “The Stories of Eva Luna” (1989) – Short stories
- “The Infinite Plan” (1991)
- “Paula” (1994) – Non-Fiction
- “Daughter of Fortune” (1999) – Daughter Of Fortune Series
- “Portrait in Sepia” (2001) – Daughter Of Fortune Series
- “City of the Beasts” (2002) – City Of The Beasts Series
- “My Invented Country: A Nostalgic Journey Through Chile” (2003) – Non-Fiction
- “Kingdom of the Golden Dragon” (2004) – City Of The Beasts Series
- “Forest of the Pygmies” (2004) – City Of The Beasts Series
- “Zorro” (2005)
- “Inés of My Soul” (2006)
- “Island Beneath the Sea” (2009)
- “Maya’s Notebook” (2011)
- “Ripper” (2013)
- “The Japanese Lover” (2015)
- “In the Midst of Winter” (2017)
- “A Long Petal of the Sea” (2019)
- “The Soul of a Woman” (2020) – Non-Fiction
- “Violeta” (2022)
- “The Wind Knows My Name” (2023)
Short Stories:
- “Aphrodite: A Memoir of Senses” (1998)
- “The Stories of Eva Luna” (1989)
Non-Fiction Books:
- “Mothers and Sons” (1996)
- “Conversations with Isabel Allende” (1999)
- “The Sum of Our Days” (2007)
7. Where can I find the printable list of Isabel Allende’s books in order?
You can find the printable list of Isabel Allende’s books at the bottom of this blog post. Simply click on the attached link to access and download the list for your convenience.
I’ve written the books down in order as a simple list at the end, but I’ve also included the full descriptions. Feel free to skip to whichever section you prefer.
Isabel Allende Books in Order
Daughter Of Fortune Series
1999
Daughter of Fortune
Set in 19th-century Chile, “Daughter of Fortune” follows Eliza Sommers, an English orphan living in Valparaíso. Eliza falls in love with Joaquín Andieta, a lowly clerk with big dreams. When Joaquín heads to California during the Gold Rush, Eliza, pregnant with his child, follows him on a daring journey.
In San Francisco, Eliza faces a male-dominated society but finds her own path with the help of Tao Chi’en, a Chinese doctor. The novel explores love, personal freedom, and the pursuit of dreams amidst a backdrop of historical events.
2001
Portrait in Sepia
“Portrait in Sepia” takes readers to 19th-century Chile, where Aurora del Valle, granddaughter of Eliza Sommers from “Daughter of Fortune,” seeks to understand her past. After suffering a traumatic event, Aurora suffers from memory loss.
As she grows up, Aurora grapples with love, betrayal, and the mysteries surrounding her own identity. The novel explores family secrets, self-discovery, and the impact of the past on the present.
City of the Beasts Series
2002
City of the Beasts
In “City of the Beasts,” fifteen-year-old Alexander Cold joins his adventurous grandmother, a reporter, on an expedition to the Amazon rainforest. Their mission is to investigate the legendary Yeti of the Amazon, also known as the Beast.
In the heart of the jungle, Alexander discovers a hidden world full of ancient wonders and mysterious creatures. Guided by his inner jaguar spirit and Nadia’s eagle spirit, they embark on an exhilarating journey, culminating in an extraordinary revelation.
2004
Kingdom of the Golden Dragon
Continuing the adventures of Alexander Cold, “Kingdom of the Golden Dragon” follows him, his grandmother, and their friend Nadia to the frosty peaks of the Himalayas. Their quest is to find a sacred statue and oracle that holds the future of a kingdom known as the Golden Dragon.
Guided by their totemic animal spirits, Jaguar and Eagle, they join forces with a wise Buddhist monk and a young royal disciple to protect the kingdom’s treasures. Their journey becomes a race against time to defend the sacred rule of the Golden Dragon.
2004
Forest of the Pygmies
In the thrilling conclusion to the City of the Beasts trilogy, Alexander Cold, accompanied by his grandmother Kate and a photography crew, embarks on an expedition to Africa’s scorching plains of Kenya. Their mission is to write about elephant-led safaris.
However, their plans change when a Catholic missionary seeks their help to find his missing companions. Guided by their totemic animal spirits, Jaguar and Eagle, Alexander and Nadia journey to the treacherous Ngoubé forests. There, they encounter a clan of Pygmies and uncover a world of corruption, slavery, and poaching.
Standalone Novels
1982
The House of the Spirits
“The House of the Spirits” is an epic family saga that spans three generations of the Trueba family in an unnamed Latin American country. Esteban Trueba, a passionate and ambitious patriarch, marries Clara, a woman with supernatural powers.
As their daughter Blanca becomes involved in a forbidden romance, a chain of events leads to the birth of Alba, Esteban’s beloved granddaughter. The novel weaves love, politics, and magical realism into a poignant exploration of the family’s triumphs and tragedies.
1984
Of Love and Shadows
Set during a time of political turmoil in an unnamed Latin American country, “Of Love and Shadows” follows Irene Beltrán, a courageous journalist, and her photographer partner, Francisco Leal.
As they investigate the secrets of an oppressive regime, Irene’s engagement to an army captain is challenged by her undeniable connection with Francisco. Their pursuit of truth leads them to uncover a harrowing crime that forces them to confront the brutal realities of their nation.
1986
Eva Luna
Born into poverty and orphaned at a young age, Eva Luna navigates life as a servant, using her extraordinary storytelling ability as her currency. Through her vivid narratives, she introduces readers to a diverse array of characters, from a compassionate Lebanese émigré to a rum-addled godmother with a penchant for Catholic saints.
Eva’s journey is intertwined with people from all walks of life, including a street urchin turned guerrilla leader and a renowned transsexual entertainer. The novel immerses readers in a rich tapestry of diverse and eccentric individuals, capturing the essence of their interconnected lives.
1991
The Infinite Plan
“The Infinite Plan” follows the life of Gregory Reeves, a man born in the Hispanic barrio of Los Angeles. Surviving the killing fields of Vietnam, Gregory becomes a successful lawyer in San Francisco. However, his life takes a downward turn as he embarks on an ill-fated quest, leading him to question his purpose and seek a deeper understanding of his roots.
2005
Zorro
“Beneath the mask, there is a man. And in his heart burns the fire of injustice.” This novel explores the origins of the iconic masked hero, Zorro. Diego de la Vega, the son of an aristocratic Spaniard and a Shoshone warrior, witnesses the injustices faced by Native Americans and becomes a part of a secret movement that fights for justice.
As Diego takes his first steps on the path to becoming Zorro, he encounters a great rival and finds his childhood sweetheart, Isabel, whom he must protect from danger and oppression.
2006
Inés of My Soul
“Inés of My Soul” follows the courageous journey of Inés Suárez, a seamstress living in 16th-century Spain. After her husband abandons her, Inés seizes the opportunity to embark on an adventure to the New World. In the uncharted territories of South America, she meets Pedro de Valdivia, a conquistador who becomes the inaugural royal governor of Chile.
Inés not only finds love in Pedro but also becomes a pivotal figure in shaping the course of history. Her pursuit of a better life leads her to leave an indelible mark on both her own destiny and the narrative of colonial South America.
2009
Island Beneath the Sea
“Island Beneath the Sea” is a captivating story of a slave born on the island of Saint-Domingue, Zarité, also known as Tété, who experiences a childhood filled with brutality and fear. However, she finds solace in the traditional rhythms of African drums and the voodoo loas she discovers through her fellow slaves.
When Toulouse Valmorain arrives in Saint-Domingue, seeking financial success, their lives intertwine amidst the merciless backdrop of sugar cane fields. As the Haitian Revolution approaches, they escape to New Orleans, where Tété forges a new life while maintaining a connection with Valmorain that proves difficult to sever.
2011
Maya’s Notebook
Contemporary and thrilling, “Maya’s Notebook” centers around Maya Vidal, a teenager abandoned by her parents. Spiraling into a world of drugs and crime, Maya eventually finds herself alone at a camp in Nogales.
To escape her tenuous reality, she creates a magical world called Azabahar in her notebook. As her life intertwines with that of her care worker, Irina Bazili, they seek to unravel the truth of Maya’s past and the mysteries of her family.
2013
Ripper
In this gripping mystery, Amanda Martín and her friends play Ripper, an online game for entertainment. However, when a security guard is mysteriously murdered at their school, Amanda becomes captivated by the case.
Using Ripper as a platform, she presents a real-life challenge to her fellow players, leading them to delve deeper into the investigation. As the body count rises, Amanda’s online accomplices race against time to solve the mystery and save her mother, who has suddenly disappeared.
2015
The Japanese Lover
“The Japanese Lover” transports readers to 1939, where young Alma Belasco is sent to live with relatives in San Francisco to escape the Nazis. There, she meets Ichimei Fukuda, the son of the family’s Japanese gardener, and they develop a deep and tender love.
However, their romance is tested when the bombing of Pearl Harbor forces them apart. Decades later, as Alma nears the end of her life, the mystery surrounding her love affair is unraveled by her care worker, Irina Bazili, and her grandson, Seth. Their journey of discovery unveils the enduring and secret passion between Alma and Ichimei.
2017
In the Midst of Winter
Set amidst a Brooklyn snowstorm, “In the Midst of Winter” brings together three people thrown together by circumstance. Richard Bowmaster, a lonely university professor, finds himself entangled with Evelyn Ortega, an undocumented migrant from Guatemala, and Lucia Maraz, Richard’s neighbor.
As their lives intertwine, the novel takes readers on a journey spanning Guatemala, Chile, Brazil, and the present-day United States. With Allende’s trademark humanity and storytelling verve, the characters navigate love, history, and the complexity of human connections.
2019
A Long Petal of the Sea
“A Long Petal of the Sea” begins during the Spanish Civil War when Victor Dalmau, a young doctor, escapes to Chile on a ship chartered by the poet Pablo Neruda.
In Chile, Victor and Roser, the woman he married to secure a place on the ship, find themselves entwined with a diverse cast of characters over four generations. The novel delves into themes of love, political upheaval, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
2022
Violeta
“Violeta” tells the story of a hundred-year life, beginning with Violeta’s birth in 1920 during the Spanish flu pandemic. As she navigates through devastating heartbreak, passionate affairs, poverty, and wealth, Violeta bears witness to major historical events. The novel encompasses the fight for women’s rights, the rise and fall of tyrants, and the enduring impact of not one but two pandemics.
2023
The Wind Knows My Name
“The Wind Knows My Name” intertwines the lives of two individuals across different times and places. In 1938, Samuel Adler, a five-year-old boy, flees Nazi-occupied Austria on the Kindertransport to England. In 2019, Anita Diaz and her mother seek refuge in the United States from danger in El Salvador.
As their paths converge, Anita finds solace in a magical world called Azabahar, while social worker Selena Duran seeks to reunite Anita with her mother. Amidst the backdrop of uncertainty and danger, the characters navigate their journeys of survival and hope.
Short Stories
1989
The Stories of Eva Luna
“The Stories of Eva Luna” presents a collection of vibrant tales told by Eva Luna, a captivating storyteller. Interweaving the real and the magical, these stories explore love, vengeance, compassion, and the strengths of women.
1998
Aphrodite: A Memoir of Senses
“Aphrodite: A Memoir of Senses” is a captivating exploration of aphrodisiacs, featuring recipes, poems, anecdotes, and historical tidbits, all centered around the delights of food and sensuality.
Non-Fiction Books
1996
Mothers and Sons
In “Mothers and Sons,” Isabel Allende delves into the complex and profound relationship between mothers and their sons. Drawing from her personal experiences as a mother and her observations of other mothers, Allende explores the deep emotional connections, joys, and challenges that come with raising sons.
With her signature warmth and wisdom, Allende celebrates the unique bond between mothers and sons and shares her insights into the transformative power of maternal love.
1999
Conversations with Isabel Allende
“Conversations with Isabel Allende” is an engaging collection of interviews that offer illuminating insights into the life and work of the beloved author. Spanning a range of topics, Allende candidly discusses her writing process, her personal beliefs, her experiences as an immigrant, and her perspectives on feminism and social issues.
Through these conversations, readers gain a deeper understanding of the creative mind behind Allende’s literary masterpieces and the woman who has left an indelible mark on the world of literature. This intimate glimpse into Allende’s thoughts and reflections makes for a compelling and inspiring read.
2007
The Sum of Our Days
“The Sum of Our Days” continues the poignant narrative begun in “Paula,” as Isabel Allende shares her life in the aftermath of her daughter’s tragic death. Blending candid reflections with vivid storytelling, Allende paints a vibrant picture of her unconventional family and the idiosyncratic network of friends she has gathered around her.
In this heartfelt memoir, she celebrates the joys of love, motherhood, and friendship while navigating the inevitable challenges that come with the passage of time. Allende’s intimate and introspective narrative showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love to heal and transform our lives.
Printable List
Here’s a convenient printable list of Isabel Allende’s novels in order of publication.
Feel free to print this list and use it as a guide for your exploration of Isabel Allende’s captivating literary works:
Final thoughts
Isabel Allende’s books have taken readers on incredible journeys filled with magical realism, historical depth, and powerful storytelling. From her captivating series like “Daughter of Fortune” and “City of the Beasts” to standalone novels such as “The House of the Spirits” and “Inés of My Soul,” her works explore love, family, politics, and social justice.
Through her non-fiction books like “Paula” and “The Sum of Our Days,” Allende opens her heart, sharing personal experiences and reflections on motherhood, feminism, and life as an immigrant.
Whether you’re drawn to her fiction or non-fiction, Allende’s writing leaves a lasting impact, offering intimate glimpses into the human spirit and celebrating the resilience of love and human connections.
Explore this complete list of Isabel Allende’s books and embark on a literary adventure, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of her narratives.
Happy reading! 📖