Rating: 5/5
Review:
An exceptionally good novel
Over forty years on from its first publication, this is still an exceptional novel. It deals with the effects on two young men of serving in the First World War, and is remarkably evocative of trench life in all its aspects and of the utter futility of much of the action the men were called to take part in. It is written with Susan Hill's usual precision and directness, painting vivid and unforgettable pictures of people and events.
What makes this truly exceptional, though, is its subtle and penetrating study of character. The two main protagonists are beautifully portrayed, as is the growth of the love between them. Their contrasting relationships with their families are very believable, too, and every minor character is utterly convincing. It is a book which has important things to say about all of these people and their relationships, and of the redemptive power of simple human kindness and love. I found it very haunting and deeply moving.
In short, this is a very fine novel which conveys far more in its brief 180 pages than many books of twice the length and more have done. Very, very warmly recommended.
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