Miguel de Unamuno gives us three separate stories in this collection, each a deep look at a person in crisis. In 'Two Mothers,' a woman's entire identity becomes wrapped up in a love triangle and a child that isn't hers. 'The Marquis of Lumbría' follows a man from a noble family who is so determined to be honorable that his rigid obsession destroys his chance at happiness. Finally, 'Nothing Less Than a Man' centers on a strong, silent man whose idea of masculinity creates a wall between him and his wife, leading to a tragic misunderstanding.

Why You Should Read It

Forget fancy plots; this book is about the people. Unamuno has a genius for getting inside a character's head. He shows us their fears, their pride, and the little lies they believe. The 'Prologue' is key—it's where he explains his whole idea of the 'nivola,' his made-up word for a story driven by inner conflict, not just external events. Reading this feels like having a late-night conversation with a brutally honest friend. It makes you look at your own motives and the roles you play.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for readers who love psychological depth over action. If you enjoy authors who explore the human condition—think Dostoevsky or Camus—you'll find a kindred spirit in Unamuno. It's not a light beach read, but it's incredibly rewarding. You'll finish it and see the people around you, and maybe yourself, a little differently.