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Съдбовен калейдоскоп

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Една многообещаваща любов грабва бъдещия актьор Сам Уокър и прекрасната червенокоса французойка Соланж. Сам се радва на бляскава кариера, а щастливата Соланж ражда три дъщери. Но съдбата готви удар за невръстните деца. Увлечен от разкоша на новия си начин на живот, Сам търси развлечения извън семейството. Когато Соланж загубва търпение и се изправя срещу него, сблъсъкът помежду им бива трагичен. Децата им се пръсват по света и минават десетки години, докато съдбовният калейдоскоп на мъка и болка подреди вълшебните си стъкълца и една огромна любов излекува раните, нанесени от времето.

364 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1987

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About the author

Danielle Steel

911 books16.7k followers
Danielle Steel has been hailed as one of the world's bestselling authors, with almost a billion copies of her novels sold. Her many international bestsellers include All That Glitters, Royal, Daddy's Girls, The Wedding Dress, The Numbers Game, Moral Compass, Spy, and other highly acclaimed novels. She is also the author of His Bright Light, the story of her son Nick Traina's life and death; A Gift of Hope, a memoir of her work with the homeless; Expect a Miracle, a book of her favorite quotations for inspiration and comfort; Pure Joy, about the dogs she and her family have loved; and the children's books Pretty Minnie in Paris and Pretty Minnie in Hollywood.

Facebook.com/DanielleSteelOfficial
Instagram: @officialdaniellesteel

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5 stars
6,293 (37%)
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5,358 (31%)
3 stars
4,211 (24%)
2 stars
839 (4%)
1 star
202 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
Profile Image for Diane Wallace.
1,448 reviews169 followers
March 2, 2018
Great read! a beautifully written story with love,lost and life involved (paperback!)
Profile Image for Lisa Tilley.
12 reviews6 followers
September 15, 2008
Wow! No matter how many years go by, I will never forget this book. I would recommend it to....ANYONE!
Profile Image for Eka Putri.
16 reviews
January 2, 2008
I planned to finish this book in a week. Who ever knew that I would finish it in a day!
Another great story from Danielle Steel. I cried over it from the start till the end of the novel. Touchy. Well... stories about broken families always touch me deeply. You guys really have to read this one.
Profile Image for Bodosika Bodosika.
272 reviews54 followers
September 21, 2021
Danielle Steel never disappoint me.
I enjoyed this and will like to read it again some day.
26 reviews
October 28, 2008
This was my favorite Danielle Steel book. After many many DS books I finally got tired of her tedious style. But if you're into Danielle Steel, this is a must read.
Profile Image for Joshua.
128 reviews39 followers
July 11, 2016
Utter tripe. I enjoyed this, it was entertaining to blaze through on a road trip. But quite honestly, it was melodramatic, shallow, and just plain dumb. I must be growing out of my Danielle Steel phase, even so, queen of shit-lit will always have a place in my heart.
Profile Image for Pragti Rathore.
32 reviews
March 30, 2013
I think its one of the best books by Steele!
She wonderfully tells the story of 3 sisters who are separated due to unfortunate events and misgivings. The only qualm I had was that it would have been even more amazing had the story of Sam Walker ans Solange not stretched so long. But after all that, the story is just fantastic and does justice to its title - Kaleidoscope, where things change with the blink of an eye.
The story of Hillary makes you cry, the hardships that she goes through is extremely heart-wrenching and you feel sad for her, you understand all her fears, you understand why she never lets love inside her heart.
Alexandra is extremely sweet, and could be anybody's small sister. She is the voice of reason among them and the only one who understands Hillary's pain and Megan's love for her father. She has an awful husband but gets through everything with her pride still intact and finds the love of her sisters again.
Megan grows up to be a strong girl who fights for what she believes in. The character was not adequately developed by Steele and she does remain a bit distant to the reader.
The only heart-breaking character was of Arthur. You hate him, you loathe him for not having been strong enough to care for the 3 girls.

A wonderful read, would recommend it to Females of ALL AGES:)
Profile Image for Debahuti.
7 reviews
December 8, 2012


The book does an absolute justice to its title- Kaleidoscope, things change with the blink of an eye. Danielle Steele once again manages to take her readers by surprise. The book is full of unexpected twists and turns which leaves the readers breathless gasping for more...

As Sam Walker returned home from war with a beautiful wife, Solange, nobody not even they themselves could have ever foreseen what life held ahead for them. They had three beautiful daughters, Hillary, Alexandria and Megan. With a cruel twist of fate, the children suddenly find themselves orphaned and eventually get separated. The circumstances in which they had lost their parents was maddening enough, but life wasn’t done with them yet. They reunite after thirty years only to find there was more to their past life.

Filled with love or the lack of it, drama, hope, despair and freedom, the book keeps its readers glued to it. Once you start reading it, you would find yourself getting attached to the pain, joys and struggles of the characters more and more.

I would rate this book 5/5 on every aspect that remains open for debate. A must read for all those fiction lovers out there.. Go for it and u won’t be disappointed.

Profile Image for Katia Gosain.
91 reviews1 follower
August 18, 2022
Kaleidoscope es una novela totalmente conmovedora, que te saca muchas más lágrimas de las que esperas con todos los giros que tiene la trama. Una vez que conoces la historia tan diferente de las tres hermanas, no lo puedes soltar, además de que es un libro muy fácil y rápido de leer.
Es muy fácil juzgar las decisiones de los personajes al principio del libro pero mientras más vas aprendiendo acerca de ellos se vuelve más difícil, terminas entendiendo sus decisiones y como la vida determinó la forma de ser de cada uno.
Profile Image for Eirini Robin.
91 reviews7 followers
October 17, 2013
Wow. It was a drama read and it made me cry quite a lot at times. It was also so well-written that the story, although "squezed" into 372 pages (I read a kinda different edition) was totally NOT boring or with plot gaps. And that is talent. :) Seriously, I would read it again if I felt the urge for a romantic-tragic story that kept my interest intact thoughout its pages. The plot twists were efficiently and amazingly working as a true kaleidoscope!
Enjoy the read!!
Profile Image for Shashank K.
50 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2018
Reading books written before the digital era took full force is really a unique experience. Finding people in todays times is so easy, they are usually just a click away unless you are reading a spy thriller where the person pursued knows how to hide. But this 1987 release novel shows us the real effort involved in finding people! The emotions in the book are agitating, challenging, exasperating and at the same time refreshing. I am in love with the way the author has built the story and the characters, you just feel like you know them. The women in the story are really powerful and awesome! You just have to read a novel like this, it will touch you, make you think and at the same time entertain you. Just loved it, I know you will too!
Profile Image for Thea.
5 reviews
Read
December 29, 2008
I loved reading this book, as it is about family and that's an issue of importance to me. I f you are family oriented, you would love reading it too.
Profile Image for Marchel.
538 reviews13 followers
February 9, 2011
Membaca buku ini bagaikan naik roller-coaster. Naik, turun, naik, turun lagi. Naik-turunnya kehidupan yang terjadi pada sebuah keluarga. Dan semuanya terjadi dengan cepat. Wew.

Di awal sudah disuguhkan suasana muram ala perang. Obrolan antar prajurit di dalam bunker saat Perang Dunia II, antara Sam Walker dan Arthur Patterson. Lalu disuguhkan adegan "manis" saat prajurit Sam Walker jatuh cinta terhadap wanita Perancis, Solange, yang digambarkan sang mempesona dengan rambut merah menyalanya. Lalu muram kembali saat Sam harus maju bertempur lagi. Cerah sesaat ketika perang usai untuk kembali muram saat Sam harus kembali ke Amerika dan terpaksa berpisah sementara dengan Solange.

Pernikahan dan karir Sam yg melesat membuat suasana jadi cerah, untuk tahu-tahu dibuat "jatuh" dengan peristiwa tak terduga......Pembunuhan. Solange dibunuh Sam, di depan anak-anaknya...............

Sang sahabat semasa perang, Arthur, terpaksa mencarikan keluarga yang mau merawat ketiga kakak beradik Walker: Hillary, Alexandra, dan Megan. Pertama, Arthur terpaksa menaruh mereka di rumah kakak Sam, sebuah rumah di daerah kumuh dengan kehidupan yang kacau. Hillary yang masih berusia 8 tahun terpaksa menjadi dewasa demi menjaga adik-adiknya.

Arthur hanya mendapatkan 2 keluarga yang masing-masing hanya mau merawat salah satu anak. Jadi ketiga saudara terpaksa dipisahkan.

Hillary, anak tertua, tetap tinggal dengan bibinya, dan mengalami kehidupan kelam. Tersiksa, nyaris mati karena dihajar pacar bibinya, diperkosa teman sekamarnya yang lesbian, namun berprestasi sangat baik di bidang akademik. Sangat membenci Arthur, dan menyalahkannya atas kematian ibunya.

Alexandra, 4 tahun lebih muda dari Hillary, diangkat anak oleh rekan senior di firma tempat Arthur bekerja.

Megan, si bungsu yang masih berusia 1 tahun, diangkat David Abrams dan Rebecca, istrinya. Keduanya pengacara muda yang bersemangat.

Arthur yang semakin tua, tahu-tahu dikejutkan dengan kemunculan Hillary di kantornya, 8 tahun kemudian. Hillary menanyakan adik-adiknya namun Arthur pun kehilangan jejaknya. Dan Hillary pun juga menghilang.

Di masa tuanya, Arthur, yang divonis dokter tak bisa hidup lama lagi, meminta bantuan John Chapman. John, seorang pengacara yang mempunyai karir cemerlang, diminta melacak keberadaan kakak beradik tadi untuk selanjutnya dipertemukan kembali.

Bisakah John melacaknya satu demi satu dan mempertemukan mereka kembali sebelum Arthur meninggal? Apa yang menyebabkan Hillary sangat membenci Arthur? Dan kejutan apakah yang disuguhkan Danielle Steel di akhir cerita ini?
Profile Image for Shilpa.
67 reviews15 followers
August 7, 2012
This is one of my favourite books by Danielle Steele... Was actually getting bored of her writing style when I stumbled upon this one.
But once I started it,I was totally engrossed into the way its story was enfolding, it being so gripping and heart wrenching at times that i could finally keep it down only once I had read the happy ending it so truly deserved.
A story of three girls left to be on their own when their actor father kills his pretty wife and commits suicide himself.
The eldest Hilary is the only one who is old enough to understand the loss that has happened and the way their lives would change. The younger ones are adopted whereas Hilary is left on her own to go through the most devastating phases of her life.
But she makes it her own, with her will,her pain so strong it doesn't let anyone come in her Life.
It all changes when a private investigator is asked to find the three girls by a guilt prone friend of their father's who is about to die and wishes to see them united.
Would they meet ...would Hilary move on ? is something you can know only after going through the Life each little girl had.
And you can do that only if you are ready to go through the dark and depressing sometimes happy emotions it brings.
Profile Image for Sea Urchin.
34 reviews18 followers
May 25, 2010
I really enjoyed this book. Read it years back.

The plot is very interesting, about 3 sisters who are separated when little and each of them lives a very different life than the other, and when they grow up they find each other and its amazing to see how completely DIFFERENT they are. The book sort of shows the nature vs nurture debate.

The book is also in very simple language and easy to read. Keeps you glued till the end!

Profile Image for Purnima.
40 reviews14 followers
May 3, 2023
Read this when I was 16. My favorite Danielle Steel book!
Profile Image for Alex (Alex's Version).
1,136 reviews110 followers
August 5, 2023
Kaleidoscope by Danielle Steel is undoubtedly a captivating novel that showcases the author's talent for crafting compelling stories. Released during what many consider to be the "Golden Age" of Danielle Steel's writing career, this book exemplifies her ability to create page-turners that keep readers hooked from beginning to end.

At its core, Kaleidoscope follows a familiar pattern often found in Steel's works: a murder that sets in motion a series of events centered around loss and the unraveling of mysteries. The story revolves around two lovers who marry and start a family, only to be torn apart by a tragic misunderstanding. This heartbreaking incident results in the parents' untimely deaths and the subsequent separation of their children, each embarking on a distinct path in life.

However, it is the character who remembers most of their shared past that becomes the linchpin of the narrative. This individual becomes the driving force behind the story, piecing together the fragments of their shattered lives and unraveling the enigma surrounding their parents' deaths. As the plot unfolds, the reader is taken on a thrilling journey, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth.

Steel's writing in Kaleidoscope is undeniably strong, showcasing her ability to create suspense and maintain a sense of intrigue throughout the novel. Her skillful storytelling keeps readers engaged, as they become invested in the characters' lives and yearn for resolution. The book's television adaptation, starring the talented Jaclyn Smith, further solidifies its appeal, bringing the story to life on screen.

In conclusion, Kaleidoscope is a testament to Danielle Steel's prowess as a writer during her "Golden Age." With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and a touch of mystery, this novel is a must-read for fans of Steel's work. It exemplifies her ability to captivate readers and keep them eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
2 reviews
October 1, 2018
With just the turn of a kaleidoscope, your vision on life can shift, whether it be for the better or for the worse. I would recommend Danielle Steel's story; Kaleidoscope. Not only because it's full of love, tragedy, and determination showing how easy it is for life to change in an instant, but because conveys the idea that with enough persistence, you can make your way through any situation, and that's what I love about it.

It's set in mid and post WWII, and centers itself around the oldest child of three sisters, Hilary, who, when her parents tragically and abruptly disappear out of her life, is then separated and forced to live with new people, in a new environment foreign and unfamiliar to her. Separated from each other at a young age, they grow up without each other. The eldest, Hilary, will have to learn and grow with each new task she is faced with growing up, waiting for the day where she may possibly reunite with them once again, and the day where she confronts the person who tore her family apart.

I enjoyed, "growing up' with Hilary and the other characters, as the story seems to begin anew each time a character is introduced, they each have their own quirks, as well as weaknesses revealed throughout the story. Kaleidoscope has essentially changed or helped me see my view on the way I handle conflicts not only in my life, but in others lives as well. I'd recommend this book to those who love tragic, affectionate, and dramatic story lines, with a twist that wraps up the story in a subtle, yet decorative way.
Profile Image for Melodyz_07.
8 reviews
October 8, 2020
I'm not a fan of Danielle Steel. I have read a few books of hers in the past and I don't remember they left in me a memorable impression. I just read recently Kaleidoscope and I must admit that it is one of my favorite books of hers. There is something nostalgic and sad about this story. I absolutely love the plot ; a romance born in WWII (I'm a fan of stories set up in this period of time), husband kills his wife in a fit of rage and passion then commits suicide over her loss, their three daughters are orphaned and separated, then 30 years later, their tormented and ill father's friend decides to find them before he dies and they are reunited. Those are the elements for a perfect melodrama and I like that. I love from time to time to read books that touch the heart. There were some moments here and there in the book that were really emotional, especially in the last part of the novel. But yes, it is not a perfect book. I was annoyed at some points here and there but nothing objective, just a matter of personal taste. But anyway, even though it is not the perfect book, I chose to put a 4 stars just for the beautiful and emotional plot. Finally, I wish that this book is turned into a movie !
Profile Image for mark.
Author 3 books48 followers
September 22, 2013
My father just sent me this book, yesterday. (He's 93 & has read every Nora Roberts book and is now into DS.) So I read it this AM. Ok, I just read Hilary's part. I don't know how I feel about these types of books - if they do no harm or in fact, are harmful because they take serious things and kind of make them unreal. Domestic abuse, infidelity, murder, rape, foster care, abandoned children, abortion, juvenile jail, love & romance, marriage, etc. and so on. And there's always a happy ending - love conquers all. The writing trivializes human emotion, the human psyche ... and yet, people love this kind of book. DS & NR are probably the most read authors, ever. This is the 1st Steel book I've read. I've read a few of Roberts. Like I said - I don't know.
Profile Image for Hawi Jiffar.
7 reviews6 followers
May 20, 2020
My first book to feel in love with , cause I was grade 5 when our teacher started telling us the story of the book but then she never finished it cause she got another job since then I couldn't stop thinking about the book till I get to college and found it I was really happy , I read it with so much interest ,love ,joy and memory of my teacher !!! This book has a great story I loved each and every part of it !! This book is the reason why I started reading more books !! I will recommend this book always !! Thanks Danielle steel for such a great book !
Profile Image for Beatriz Rosales.
608 reviews21 followers
August 21, 2021
Luego de haber leido el inquietante "Tambor de hojalata", y para quitar ese mal sabor me refugié en Danielle Steel y la verdad me supo a miel con limón... Gratificante, interesante, entretenida y sorpresiva así fue esta lectura en la que como delta de un rio turbulento las aguas se separan y se vuelven a unir para desembocar plácidamente en el mar. Tres vidas, tres historias que nacieron unidas y que la tragedia las separa, y cada una en un giro de un caleidoscopio tienen una vida tan diferente. Y el final , como a mi me gustan, todas las piezas en su lugar.
Profile Image for Mitch C..
465 reviews46 followers
September 12, 2021
Late review.

One of DS' good books.

A story of three sisters separated when their parents died. They were adopted across the world and on their late 20s or early 30s, someone (a lawyer, I think) tracked them down. At first, they couldn't believe they were sisters coz' they had all different lives and no trace of the past.

Poignant, riveting, heartwarming. A must re-read for me.
Profile Image for Kellie.
1,096 reviews85 followers
September 27, 2008
When I was reading Danielle Steele, I loved her books.
I was obsessed with her books. Not I can't even pick up one of her books.
Profile Image for Julay .
461 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2025
Les plus datés des romans de Danielle Steel sont indéniablement mieux écrits et bien plus agréables à lire que les plus récents (probablement parce qu'elle ne surfait pas encore sur la vague de son succès).

Paradoxalement, ce sont aussi ceux dont la manière de traiter les diverses thématiques me pose le plus de problèmes (probablement parce que c'est une vieille dame et qu'il y a 40 ans on ne prenait pas autant au sérieux qu'aujourd'hui certains sujets).

Je m'explique :

-Il est totalement banalisé dans ce roman que des femmes jeunes (20-25 ans) soient en couple/mariées avec des hommes qui ont +20 voire 30 ans d'écart avec elles.

-Les comportements patriarcaux ne sont absolument jamais remis en question (ex : le mari d'Alexandra - mention spéciale il a 20 ans de + qu'elle - contrôle absolument tous les aspects de sa vie, et c'est normal pour les personnages)

-La culture du viol ???????? "Hilary ne comprenait pas que ses malheurs venaient du fait qu'elle soit très belle" après qu'elle se soit faite violer collectivement par trois mecs ???????????

-"Tout est bien qui finit bien, l'amour triomphe de tout" comme morale, c'est vraiment outdated. Non, l'amour ne résoud pas tout. Hilary a des traumas hyper violents qu'elle intériorise depuis +30 ans. Comment ça en un week-end de retrouvailles avec ses sœurs elle raconte tout comme si elle était au PMU du coin ET tombe amoureuse en prime ?

Non vraiment, j'arrête avec Danielle Steel. C'était bien quand j'étais ado.
Profile Image for Jennymdec.
8 reviews1 follower
January 18, 2018
La fin était assez évidente, on peut facilement la deviner avant la fin de la première partie. Mais bonne lecture tout de même.
Profile Image for Emiliya.
713 reviews19 followers
September 24, 2018
Даниел Стийл няма слаба книга.
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