Dolores Telles, una joven inmigrante española en una floreciente Buenos Aires de principios del siglo XX, ha tenido que lidiar por mucho tiempo con los férreos mandatos patriarcales de su familia.
Inmersa en un matrimonio y en una vida que no eligió, un evento fortuito la lleva a tomar una decisión que cambia su vida para siempre.
A partir de ese momento se adentra en un camino de transformación, envuelta en sus propias mentiras para sobrevivir, hasta que un encuentro inesperado la enfrenta con su pasado. Deberá entonces rearmarse de valor para afrontar una realidad adversa y elegir qué rumbo tomar.
Inspirada en hechos reales, DOLORES: Una novela es una historia de conflictos e incertidumbres, pero es también un viaje de autodescubrimiento que evidencia los límites a los que puede empujarnos el instinto de supervivencia.
La inmigración, la familia y el rol de la mujer en la sociedad de aquella exuberante Buenos Aires son temas centrales en esta historia..
Matías Gagliardone (Buenos Aires, 1982) earned a Bachelor's degree in Sciences of Communication with a major in Public Opinion and Advertising, graduating cum laude from the University of Buenos Aires. He works in Advertising and was a university professor in subjects related to his profession at several universities in Argentina: UBA, UADE and UCES. He currently lives in Miami with his wife Florencia and is making his first steps into the written world, and also into the audiovisual one, being an Associate Producer for different series and films.
¿Cuántas veces te has preguntado qué serías capaz de lograr si no llevaras el peso de las expectativas familiares sobre tus hombros?
Muchos vivimos bajo la presión constante de cumplir con lo que se espera de nosotros, sino también por la culpa que sentimos al querer perseguir nuestros propios sueños, anhelando siquiera un pequeño respiro.
Me encantó cómo el tiempo y la vida van dejando huella en Dolores, mostrando con crudeza lo doloroso, complicado y a veces tóxico que puede ser el entorno familiar.
El coraje que se necesita para romper con todo aquello que nos ata, incluso con los lazos de sangre, y las inevitables consecuencias de nuestras decisiones no solo impactan nuestra vida, sino también la de quienes nos rodean.
Hace mucho tiempo que un libro no me hacía reflexionar de esta manera. El libro me ha llevado a cuestionar lo injustas que pueden ser las responsabilidades que cargamos y a replantear la forma en que nos relacionamos con nuestras familias.
Su capacidad para generar empatía y abrirnos los ojos a las complejidades de la didáctica familiar lo convierte en una de mis lecturas favoritas del año.
Bueno, dado que soy el autor, ponerle un 5 podría parecer un poco predecible o hasta extraño, ¿no? Pero en serio, me siento muy orgulloso de esta, mi primera novela. Está inspirada en hechos reales que sucedieron en mi familia hace muchísimo tiempo. Mi abuela Rafaela fue quien me contó esta historia sobre su hermana Dolores, y más allá de que me tomé algunas libertades creativas, esta novela no deja de ser un homenaje a ella.
El viaje de este libro, desde que escribí la primera página hasta llegar a la publicación, fue un proceso realmente arduo, pero debo decir que lo disfruté muchísimo de principio a fin. Me enorgullece enormemente que la historia de Dolores esté encontrando su lugar en el mundo, y me llena de gratitud recibir los elogios y el apoyo de los lectores que se la cruzan en su camino.
Sé que, siendo mi primer libro, siempre habrá detalles por mejorar, pero, honestamente, estoy muy feliz con el resultado. Le doy un 5 porque, como dicen, primero hay que aprender a quererse a uno mismo 😊. Aunque seguro podría afinar algunos aspectos, este proyecto es tan especial para mí que ponerle un puntaje más bajo sería casi un sacrilegio.
Si algún lector disfruta de esta historia tanto como yo disfruté contándola, entonces la misión está cumplida. Y si no, bueno, siempre puedo seguir el ejemplo de los autores consagrados y decir: 'Este es solo el principio'. 😉
“Dolores” es un libro fácil de leer y entretenido que también resulta motivador. Enfatiza el mensaje atemporal de que nunca es demasiado tarde para cambiar la vida y convertirse en la mejor versión de uno mismo. La vida, como se describe en este libro, se trata de resiliencia y crecimiento, recordando a los lectores que los errores son parte del viaje, pero superarlos es donde reside la verdadera realización.
Novela de época, ambientada en Argentina con influencias españolas. Trama femenina sobre la familia y el cambio del papel de las mujeres en la historia del país. Fácil de leer, es sutil y deja un buen sabor de boca.
Dolores Telles is a young Spanish immigrant living in a beautiful Buenos Aires in 1900s. For a long time, she has faced the strict rules imposed by her family. Stuck in a marriage and life she never wanted, quick flow of events pushes her to make a choice that change her future. ✨The starting of her journey toward personal change, where she relies on her own to get by. However, a sudden twist makes her to confront her past. She gathers strength to face the tuff reality and move towards contentment .
♥️✨My Thoughts ✨♥️ ✨The author has crafted the narrative in a remarkable manner that captivates the reader from beginning to end. ✨This tale of women imparts valuable lessons on how to confront the uncertainties encountered throughout life’s journey. ✨It emphasizes the necessity of cherishing our relationships and facing life’s challenges directly, encouraging a proactive approach to adversity. ✨Each character is afforded equal significance, which I appreciated, as every individual contributes meaningfully to the storyline. ✨The narrative poignantly highlights the issue of male dominance during that era and its profound implications. ✨It also addresses the hardships faced during wartime and the struggles of displacement from one’s homeland. ✨The narrative underscores the critical nature of the decisions we make in life and their subsequent consequences, while also valuing the stories of individuals. ✨Furthermore, it stresses the importance of family and the need to cherish them, regardless of the circumstances.
Y como le dije a Matías, no se si es un libro que me gustó o no 🫣 (me fascinó 🤫) Uno de los pocos libros que me ha mantenido en la historia al grado de no dormir y soñar con los personajes con tal de seguir la historia. Te hace ponerte en los diferentes tiempos de la historia, tomar la piel de cada uno de los personajes y sobretodo, ponerte en la piel de Dolores (como madre, hija, abuela etc). Una historia un tanto desgarradora como conmovedora 🥺pero de igual forma hermosa 🌷 sencilla de leer, te atrapa desde el primer momento. Felicidades por tu primer novela y que sigas conservando éxitos 🥂 esperamos la siguiente
Simplemente BRILLANTE!!! Una novela de época de la Buenos Aires de principios de siglo XX, que narra la historia de Dolores, una joven inmigrante española que batalla con los mandatos de la familia.
Me sorprendió gratamente como el autor narra la historia y sus hechos, con capítulos breves pero muy bien encadenados entre sí. Es una lectura llena de emociones, uno de esos libros que no podes parar de leer y que al mismo tiempo queres saber cómo termina. 🙌🏻
Matias nos ayuda a recorrer la vida de dolores y de su mano, la de muchos inmigrantes que llegaron a la Argentina. Con muy poco para envidiarle a lo mucho que te ame de sacheri, dolores se destaca por sus personajes complejos y como, a medida que pasa el tiempo, los mismos van evolucionando según marca su historia. y hablando de historia, una magistral sutileza para entretejer personajes e interacciones. Si este es el debut, vaya a saber dónde terminará su carrera.
Excelente novela. Una historia atrapante, muy bien llevada y escrita. Además de contarnos la historia de Dolores y su familia de inmigrantes españoles, nos lleva de paseo por el Buenos Aires de 1930 y 1940. Muy recomendable.
Great inspiring book. It gives a detailed experience on early century buenos aires and all the struggles women had to fight. Its even more inspiring, when you realize its based on a real life story. Hope to read more from this author.
"Dolores, una novela", más allá de una historia bien contada y con detalles narrados de forma impecable que hace que no sueltes el libro, nos muestra como un acto que se tomaría como egoísmo por parte de la protagonista se transforma en respeto y comprensión por aquella decisión que la llevó de reprimir sus propias emociones a enfrentar los demonios de su pasado con valentía y coraje. Es una muestra inequivoca de resiliencia y del valor de las segundas oportunidades. Una joya de libro!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Es la primera vez que lloro con un libro. Este nos enseña que siempre podemos tener el coraje y valentía de luchar por nuevos sueños, y que la familia siempre estará respaldando.
Dolores es un testimonio de familia y de alguna manera histórico por tantos inmigrantes que tuvieron que abandonar sus países y acoplarse a nuevas historias , independientemente del drama familiar que toca el corazón . Me encantó.
La historia es linda, pero esta contada de una forma que por momentos parece una redaccion escolar y se vuelve aburrida. El libro llegó a mi por medio de goodreads giveaways
La historia de Dolores es fácil de leer y atrapadora no solo por las diferentes emociones que produce y el fascinante escenario en la Buenos Aires del siglo XX si no como continúa siendo relevante de muchas maneras. Cada capítulo invita a querer leer más y envuelve a los lectores en no solo la historia de su protagonista si no en la de todos sus personajes dejando enseñanzas que hacen reflexionar.
Dolores es muy hermosa, te da la mano y te lleva consigo a recorrer la historia de esta mujer que hizo lo que pudo con las situaciones que le tocaron. Te hace reflexionar sobre muchos temas a la vez. Felicitaciones, Mati
Matías Gagliardone’s Dolores is a masterful exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the constraints imposed by a patriarchal society. Set in early 20th-century Buenos Aires, the novel follows Dolores Telles, a young Spanish immigrant trapped in a rigid, oppressive life dictated by family expectations. Her journey is one of reinvention, shaped by deception, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of autonomy. When circumstances force her to break away, she embarks on a path fraught with internal struggles and external challenges, making her transformation both compelling and deeply human.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its immersive historical setting. Buenos Aires is depicted in rich detail, from the bustling immigrant neighborhoods to the social hierarchies that dictate every aspect of life. The city itself becomes a character, mirroring Dolores’ struggles and aspirations. The portrayal of immigrant hardships, especially for women, is layered and thought-provoking, making the novel more than just a personal story—it is also a commentary on survival in an unforgiving world.
Dolores’ relationships add further depth to her journey, particularly her bond with Mercedes, a woman who embodies the courage Dolores once lacked. Their dynamic highlights the novel’s central themes—choice, regret, and the weight of past decisions. Dolores’ introspective moments, though sometimes slowing the pacing, provide an intimate look at her fears and desires, making her transformation feel organic and earned. The novel doesn’t just tell a story; it forces readers to reflect on the sacrifices women make for freedom.
What makes Dolores particularly powerful is its foundation in real events, adding authenticity to the narrative. The author skillfully weaves themes of war, migration, and gender roles into a story that is both personal and universal. Every character plays a crucial role in shaping Dolores’ journey, making the novel a deeply engaging and emotionally resonant read. Gagliardone’s prose is evocative, his storytelling gripping, and the message of the novel—about survival and the power of choice—lingers long after the final page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Dolores is a deeply moving novel based on the true story of the author’s great-aunt. Through a captivating narrative, readers are transported a hundred years into the past, following the journey from a troubled Europe—particularly Spain—to the hope of a new beginning in Buenos Aires.
The novel vividly portrays the harsh conditions faced by migrants of that era: poverty, political and food crises, the looming threat of war, and the unwavering hope of those who crossed the ocean in search of opportunity. Within this historical context, Dolores’s story stands out for her courage, determination, and resilient spirit.
With perfectly sized chapters that make it easy to keep reading, Dolores hooks the reader from the very first page. Beyond the drama, Gagliardone weaves a plot rich in emotion, complex family relationships, and moments of intrigue that spark curiosity and keep the reader engaged. One of the most powerful aspects of the novel is its portrayal of women’s roles in society at the time. Dolores refuses to accept the fate assigned to her—she challenges expectations, makes bold decisions, and transforms her life.
The novel stands out for its excellent storytelling, vivid descriptions, and meticulous historical research that enriches the narrative without overshadowing it. While the story includes fictional elements, it is firmly grounded in real events and contexts, giving it depth and authenticity.
Available in both Spanish and English, Dolores is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in a moving, historical, and deeply human story. It is a tribute to the women who defied convention, to the migrants who dreamed of a better future, and to the power of memory that continues to inspire us today.
Dolores Telles’ journey is of resilience, reinvention, and survival. Set in early 20th-century, Buenos Aires, the novel immerses readers in a world where societal expectations weigh heavily, especially on women. Dolores, a young Spanish immigrant, is trapped in a marriage and a life dictated by her family’s rigid patriarchal norms. When an unexpected event forces her hand, she embarks on a path of self-discovery—one that requires deception, adaptation, and courage.
The novel’s strength lies in its vivid historical backdrop and compelling character development. Buenos Aires comes alive with its cultural richness and the struggles of immigrants seeking better lives. Dolores’ transformation is raw and believable, as she navigates both external constraints and internal conflicts. The book does an excellent job of portraying the complexities of survival, showing how far one might go to reclaim autonomy.
Thematically, DOLORES explores not only personal freedom but also the broader challenges faced by women in a male-dominated world. The story raises important questions about agency, sacrifice, and the weight of past decisions. The prose is engaging, though at times, the pacing slows due to introspective passages. However, these moments add depth, allowing readers to truly understand Dolores’ motivations and fears.
For readers who appreciate historical fiction with strong female protagonists, DOLORES is a gripping and thought-provoking read. It offers an immersive look into the struggles of an immigrant woman fighting for control over her destiny. Though it has some slower sections, its powerful themes and rich setting make it a worthwhile read.
Dolores es una mujer que ha pasado por situaciones adversas muy complicadas. Se encuentra casada a la fuerza con un hombre que a su vez tampoco la quiere. Sin embargo, vive resignada hasta que algo ocurre y ve la oportunidad de huir y nunca más volver.
Las narraciones de este libro son atrapantes, hay ciertos saltos en los tiempos de la novela, que le quitan lo tedioso de algunas otras obras, cuando se entra en detalles innecesarios. Mati hace descripciones que te envuelven en los lugares, las comidas, los sabores y olores, lo que hace que todo el tiempo te sientas como la protagonista. También, los capítulos son cortos lo que hace fácil tomar pausas entre ellos. La lectura es ligera pero a su vez tiene tantos giros en la trama que es necesario tomar esas pausas para asimilar lo sucedido.
Dolores es un personaje humano, con errores, conflictos, problemas morales, decisiones difíciles de afrontar. Eso hace que el libro sea mucho más REAL. Se toca igualmente el tema de la migración y cómo toda la familia de Dolores llega a Buenos Aires, lo cuál me hizo reflexionar en la cruda realidad de la época, donde no todos tenían el éxito de llegar a su destino.
Esta novela me hizo recordar historias de mis abuelas lastimosamente, y sentir mucha empatía por las decisiones que Dolores tomó. Gracias Mati por darle voz a muchas mujeres de la época que se vieron obligadas a tomar este tipo de decisiones. Más que una obra de carácter “familiar” es un reflejo de la época y el altavoz para eso que a veces nos cuesta hablar en las familias. 🫶🏻❤️
Dolores is a riveting and an emotional historical novel by matias gagliardone ,it's a story about a woman's survival in the patriarchal world ,where women are chained with invisible societal norms . Infact we can say it's a story about resilience, reinvention, and the power of choice.
" ..Dolores saw in Mercedes a brave, determined, and persevering young woman, who had fought against her own family mandate to fulfill her dream. Her courage, her boldness, and her ability to move forward were characteristics that she admired and to a certain extent envied. Despite the happiness she felt for her friend, every step she took somehow reminded her of her own frustration. She saw herself reflected in Mercedes, many years ago. But the decisions she had made back then were far from her friend’s courage and audacity. Her only way out had been to escape. This often generated a feeling of remorse in her, of having left an unfinished business that gnawed at her inside. But, as always, she did her best to push those feelings down so that they wouldn’t come to light.."
Dolores is a lady who survive and live it all but what matters is her strength and resilience to survive. Every character plays an important role to uplift the story ,that makes the book more interesting. Author has mention about war ,immigration and most important the role of women in a very layered and thoughtful way .Also after knowing that this book is based on the real story makes it more interesting and unique.
I just finished Dolores, and wow, what a journey! 💪🏻✨️ This book completely pulled me into early 20th-century Buenos Aires, following Dolores Telles, a young Spanish immigrant trapped in a life she never really chose. 🥺❤️🩹 She’s stuck in a loveless marriage, struggling under societal expectations, but then something major happens that forces her to take control of her own story.🛣
Dolores embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery, facing the challenges of being an independent woman in a society that restricts her choices. And let me tell you, watching her transformation was both inspiring and heartbreaking. 😇🫠
What I loved most about this book is how real and raw it feels. Dolores isn’t just some tragic character ; she’s strong, flawed, and full of life. I felt every bit of her frustration, hope, and determination. ✨️💅🏻
The way Mr. Gagliardone brings Buenos Aires to life is incredible, i could almost hear the street vendors, feel the weight of tradition pressing down on her, and see the stark contrast between the life she wants and the one she’s been handed. ❤️🩹
The pacing is just right, it keeps you hooked without dragging, and every chapter peels back another layer of secrets, family history, and personal struggles. ❤️🔥💫
If you love historical fiction, with deep, well-developed characters and themes of self-discovery, this book is for you. 🌸 Highly recommend!💯 I absolutely loved reading this. 💗
This book was honestly so good and really inspiring. It takes you straight to early 1900s Buenos Aires, showing how tough life was for women back then. The fact that it’s based on a real story makes it even more impactful—it just hits different when you know it actually happened.
Dolores Telles is a young Spanish immigrant who’s basically stuck in a life she never chose. Her family controls everything, and now she’s trapped in a marriage that feels like a prison. But when things start changing fast, she’s forced to make a decision that completely shifts her future. She finally starts taking control of her own life, but just when she thinks she’s getting somewhere, her past comes back to haunt her. She has no choice but to face it head-on.
The writing is super engaging, and I loved how every single character actually mattered. It’s not just about Dolores—every person in her life plays a role, which makes the story feel so real. The book also touches on some deep stuff, like war, displacement, and how hard it is to leave everything behind. It also really makes you think about how much choices shape our lives.
Overall, this book made me feel so many emotions. If you love historical fiction with strong female leads and a powerful story, you need to read this. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you finish it.
Dolores Telles, a young Spanish immigrant in the flourishing Buenos Aires of the early 20th century, has long endured the unyielding patriarchal mandates of her family for a long time. Trapped in a marriage and a life she did not choose, a fortuitous event leads her to make a decision that changes her life forever. From that moment on, she embarks on a journey of personal transformation, bound in her own lies to survive, until an unexpected encounter brings her face-to-face with her past. She will then have to muster enough courage to confront an adverse reality and choose which course to take.
What a book! Definitely a heart touching one. This revolves around a single woman's journey, who performs the daily juggle of participating in a life full of unachievable expectations while desperately working toward gaining the freedom she so deeply craves. The weight of her community’s expectations, too, becomes unbearable and makes her feel like she’s carrying the burden of the world. The author also portrays the constant tormenting, exiling and domination of men and the aftermath of the war in an overwhelming yet sorrowful manner.
Unlike in most books, this one holds incredible depth that emphasizes the meaning of the narrative. It's a story deeply rooted in powerful emotions. Absolutely harrowing and beautiful at the same time which makes it a book that simply cannot be missed.
Book-Dolores (A novel) ✍️ Author- Matias Gagliardonr
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ✨ (4.5/5)
📄I just finished reading "Dolores", and I'm still reeling from the experience. This novel is a masterfully crafted exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of love, loss, and resilience.
📖The story follows Dolores, a complex and deeply flawed protagonist, as she navigates the challenges of her life. With a narrative that spans decades, the author skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a rich tapestry of characters and experiences.
📌Dolores and her sisters are multidimensional characters, full of contradictions and flaws, making them relatable and human.The writing is descriptive and evocative, transporting the reader to the streets of Buenos Aires and the inner lives of the characters. The author's use of language is masterful, conveying the emotions and atmosphere of each scene with precision.
✨What struck me most about "Dolores" is its unflinching exploration of the human experience. The novel tackles difficult themes like trauma, grief, and relationships with sensitivity and honesty.
📍Recommendation:
I highly recommend "Dolores" to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and reflect on your own life as you follow Dolores on her journey.
Dolores by Matías Gagliardone is a historical novel which captures the conflict of woman torn between social expectations and individual freedom. It is a profoundly moving journey of survival, resilience, and self-discovery. Dolores Telles is a young Spanish immigrant in Buenos Aires in early 20th-century, stuck in a life she did not choose where an unexpected occurrence leads her down a path of deception, reinvention, and confrontation with her past. She has long suffered the unbending patriarchal orders of her family. And when the fate offers her a chance to alter her course, she makes a gamble that leads her on a life-altering journey. But when the past catches up with her, she has to face the reality and determine what fate has in store for her once again. This book not only narrates a tale, it plunges you into it that will allow you to experience every victory and sorrow.
Based on real events, Dolores skillfully interweaves the issues of immigration, identity, and sacrifices women make in pursuit of freedom. The highly detailed historical background lends depth to Dolores's journey that makes her struggles all too real. The vivid prose and engaging narration of Gagliardone, presents a book that stays in the heart, reminding us of the courage it takes to claim one's fate.
Dolores is a poignant and a powerful story of resistance, identity and survival against a pulsating but unforgivable background of Buenos Aires from the early 20th century. The novel is followed by Dolores Telles, a young Spanish immigrant whose life is formed - and limited - by rigid patriarchal standards of her family and society. Dolores' world, which was imprisoned in a repressive marriage, will move dramatically after an unexpected event forces her to choose between obedience and freedom.
What Dolores does so convincing is the depth of its character development and absorbing historical atmosphere. Buenos Aires pulzy with life, from busy immigration neighborhoods to quiet, suffocating domestic spaces, where female voices are silenced. Evolution Dolores from an obedient wife to a woman who carries her own way, feels authentic and deeply human.
The novel also excels in exploring wider topics - personal autonomy, gender inequality and sacrifice that women do to get back their lives. While stimulation occasionally slows down due to reflective passages, these moments offer valuable insights into fear, hope and emotional survival costs.
For fans of historical fiction with strong female leadership, Dolores is richly layered and emotionally resonant, who lasts long in the final point of view.
The book focuses on women’s struggles in a patriarchal society. This story of Dolores portrays when a difficult situation happens in any home the children grow up and mature fast and take on responsibilities early. That is how the contrast is shown where Dolores’s sisters due to their father’s absence and mother’s health concern became more responsible and mature whereas her own sons were more temperamental and broody and restless and arrogant.
Dolores is a strong, sensitive and hard working woman. Dolores lived with her husband and two sons and her younger sister was also living with them for the last few months. Her husband seemed to have little to no patience and her sons were also restless and unruly like their father. They were having a dinner table conversation whereby he asked her to send her sister to his brother’s place as her mother was not recovering soon and he cannot continue to feed her sister.
However the way she managed to change her life when she arrived at the Buenos Aires port with her family, her father making a decision of her getting married to her uncle and then having the sort of relationship to end up opening a restaurant with her sister and brother in law shows resilience of Dolores.
The book is divided into 44 chapters and epilogue. The character of Dolores is a real life character which is related to the author.
Some books don’t just tell a story they make you feel it. Dolores by Matías Gagliardone was one of those rare reads that lingered in my mind long after I finished the last page. From the very first chapter, I was transported to early 20th-century Buenos Aires, feeling every bit of Dolores Telles' struggles, hopes, and impossible choices.
Reading this book was an emotional journey. I felt Dolores’ suffocation in a life she never chose, her desperation for freedom, and the weight of the secrets she had to carry. Her resilience was both heartbreaking and inspiring. Every moment of her transformation felt so real, so raw, that I couldn’t help but root for her, even when she made decisions that weren’t easy to justify.
The storytelling was immersive, the writing vivid, and the intense emotions There were moments of quiet reflection, of tension that made my heart pound, and of deep sorrow that left me staring at the page. But what I loved most was how Dolores wasn’t just about escaping the past ,it was about facing it. And that final moment, when everything came full circle, left me breathless.
If you love historical fiction with strong, complex female leads, Dolores is a book you need to read. It’s a story that stays with you, making you question how far you’d go to reclaim your life.