July'25 Book Pick: My Name is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende
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If you’re looking for a book with a fearless heroine, a sweeping historical journey, and a voice that refuses to be silenced, our July 2025 Book Pick should be on your reading list!
If you’ve followed Comet Readings for a while, you already know how much Isabel Allende’s storytelling means to me, and it has been an utter delight to read My Name Is Emilia del Valle, an inspiring, brave journey of a woman determined to define her role and write her own story.
A Story of Rebellion, Heritage & Identity
Born of scandal in 1866 San Francisco—her mother an Irish nun, her father a Chilean aristocrat—Emilia del Valle grows up in a household that values freedom over conformity. From early on, her passion is writing, first through pulp fiction published under a male pseudonym, then as a rising journalist with The Daily Examiner.
When a war breaks out in Chile—the homeland of her estranged father—Emilia seizes the opportunity to report from the front lines. But what begins as a career-making assignment becomes a deeply personal reckoning. With her roots, her identity, and her sense of truth in question, Emilia must decide how much she’s willing to risk for her voice to be heard.
Why My Name Is Emilia del Valle Is Worth the Read
A Heroine with Fire: Emilia is bold, independent, and endlessly curious. She fights for her voice and her place in a world built to silence women. Readers who love determined female protagonists (especially those who challenge societal norms) will be drawn to Emilia’s courage and sharp intellect.
Emilia’s POV: Whether she’s crafting thrilling fiction or uncovering the truth on the battlefield, Emilia writes to be seen and understood. Her refusal to let others define her feels as timely now as ever—and is a beautiful reminder of how powerful women’s stories can be.
Historical Descriptions: Allende’s worldbuilding is as immersive as ever. From the pressrooms of 19th-century San Francisco to the heat and heartbreak of the Chilean civil war, every page feels textured and alive. If you read to travel through time and place, this book is your passport.
Slow-Burn Love: Emilia and Eric’s relationship grows slowly. It’s not love at first sight; it’s built on shared values and trust. And somehow, that makes it all the more romantic. I didn’t just root for them—I believed in them.
About the author
Isabel Allende won worldwide acclaim in 1982 with the publication of her first novel, The House of the Spirits. Since then, she has authored twenty-six bestselling and critically acclaimed books, which have been translated into more than forty-two languages. She has also received PEN Center USA’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Raised in Chile, she now lives in California.
Read more about Isabel ON HER WEBSITE
Book Club Discussion Questions
- What were your first thoughts about Emilia? Did your opinion of her evolve as the story unfolded?
- Emilia moves between fiction and journalism—how does each form shape her journey?
- How did Emilia’s relationships with her mother and stepfather influence her decisions?
- What stood out to you most about 1860s San Francisco and Civil War Chile?
- What drives Emilia to Chile? Is it truth, identity, ambition, or something else?
- Emilia straddles many identities—Chilean and American, woman and writer, fact and fiction. How does she navigate those complexities?
- How did you feel about Emilia and Eric’s romance?
- Emilia doesn’t conform to expectations. Which of her choices did you find bold or inspiring?
- Did the Chilean conflict feel like a backdrop or a central force in the story?
- What role does legacy play in Emilia’s journey? Is she trying to escape her past, honor it, or reshape it into something entirely her own?
- Emilia often chooses risk over safety. Do you think that’s a strength or a flaw? Were there moments when you wished she had chosen differently?
- What did Emilia gain (or lose) from finally meeting her father?
- Was there a scene or quote that stuck with you long after you finished?
- If she were alive today, what kind of writer or activist would Emilia be?
- What themes resonated with you most—love, legacy, identity, truth?
Find More Details about My Name Is Emilia del Valle on the Book Page
My Name Is Emilia del Valle reminded me why I turn to Isabel Allende time and again: her ability to blend historical depth with emotional resonance is unmatched. Emilia’s journey is transformative—not just for the character, but for the reader. And I have a feeling you’ll love this novel as much as I do (or at least, I hope so). Don’t forget to share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments for our next picks!