Les Misérables

Victor Hugo’s sweeping narrative follows Jean Valjean, a former convict whose life is defined by a cycle of imprisonment, escape, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, the novel traces Valjean’s transformation from a bitter ex-convict to a respected mayor and philanthropist, all while being relentlessly pursued by the rigid and obsessive Inspector Javert. The story expands to include the struggles of the young Cosette, the idealistic Marius, and the broader social upheavals of the Parisian barricades, weaving personal tragedy with political history.

Description adapted from Open Library ↗.