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Literary Fiction· Spain

The Time of the Doves

by Mercè Rodoreda
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1962Catalan
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About This Book

The Time of the Doves by Mercè Rodoreda is a landmark work of literary fiction, first published in 1962. Set in Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War, this novel follows the life of Natalia, a young woman navigating personal and political upheaval. Rodoreda's lyrical prose captures the emotional depth and resilience of her protagonist, making it a seminal work in Catalan literature. Themes of war and conflict, identity, love and loss run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorMercè Rodoreda
Published1962
Country of Origin🇪🇸 Spain
LanguageCatalan
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN978-0915308750
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

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Country of Origin

🇪🇸 Spain

This book is part of Spain's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

First published in 1962, Mercè Rodoreda's The Time of the Doves is a work of literary fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with war and conflict, identity, love and loss, resilience gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. With an editorial score of 30/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. Readers coming to The Time of the Doves for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of war and conflict, identity, love and loss, resilience is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Mercè Rodoreda's role in the literature of Spain is well established. The Time of the Doves can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20030
✍️
About the Author
Mercè Rodoreda
Spain
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Mercè Rodoreda is a Spain author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Time of the Doves about?

Set in Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War, this novel follows the life of Natalia, a young woman navigating personal and political upheaval. Rodoreda's lyrical prose captures the emotional depth and resilience of her protagonist, making it a seminal work in Catalan literature.

Who wrote The Time of the Doves?

The Time of the Doves was written by Mercè Rodoreda, from Spain. First published in 1962.

What awards has The Time of the Doves won?

The Time of the Doves has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The Time of the Doves worth reading?

The Time of the Doves is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in war and conflict, identity, love and loss.

Where can I buy The Time of the Doves?

You can buy The Time of the Doves on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Time of the Doves?

The Time of the Doves is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is The Time of the Doves from?

The Time of the Doves originates from Spain's literary tradition. Explore more books from Spain on our country page.

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