First published in 1816, Adolphe is a short, intense novel that reads like a confession. It’s framed as the memoir of a young man looking back on the relationship that defined and ruined his early adulthood.

The Story

Adolphe, a listless young man fresh out of university, decides to pursue Ellénore on a whim. She’s older, a respected companion to a count, and a mother. Against all odds, he wins her over, and they begin a passionate, secret affair. But almost immediately, Adolphe’s feelings change. The love he fought for becomes a burden. He’s torn between a desperate need for freedom and a crushing sense of duty to the woman who sacrificed everything for him. The story follows their agonizing dance as they move across Europe, bound together by guilt and habit long after love has faded.

Why You Should Read It

This book floored me with its psychological honesty. Adolphe isn’t a villain, but he’s painfully, embarrassingly real. Constant doesn’t let him off the hook for his selfishness, but he also makes you understand the sheer torture of being stuck in a life you don’t want. Ellénore is just as compelling—proud, devoted, and ultimately tragic. It’s a masterclass in how good intentions and bad communication can destroy two people.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves character-driven stories about messy human emotions. If you enjoyed the emotional precision of Sally Rooney or the restless introspection in The Catcher in the Rye, you’ll find a kindred spirit in this nearly 200-year-old novel. It’s a quick, unforgettable read about the timeless problem of wanting what we can’t have, and having what we don’t want.