A Very Long Engagement by Sebastien Japrisot is an incredible and haunting novel that takes place in the aftermath of World War I. The protagonist, Mathilde, embarks on a relentless mission to uncover the truth about her fiancé's disappearance on the front lines, refusing to believe the official reports of his death. Japrisot's storytelling is exceptional, weaving together multiple narrative threads to create a complex and finely crafted plot.
One of the standout aspects of this novel is the cast of captivating and well-developed characters. Mathilde is a strong and compelling protagonist, driven by her love and unwavering in her pursuit for answers. The supporting characters add depth and complexity to the story, each with their own motivations and secrets. The alternating perspectives, timelines, and voices of these characters contribute to the richness and depth of the narrative.
Japrisot's attention to historical detail is evident throughout the book, and the depiction of post-war France feels vivid and authentic. His writing is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers in and immersing them in the world of Mathilde's search. The themes of love, loyalty, and the resilience of the human spirit shine through the pages, making for a poignant and emotional read.
Available on Audible
A Very Long Engagement explores the power of love and the lengths one will go to in order to uncover the truth. It is a testament to the human spirit and the enduring bonds of love. The book is gripping and heart-wrenching, leaving a lasting impact on readers.
In conclusion, A Very Long Engagement is a compelling and haunting novel set in the aftermath of World War I. Sebastien Japrisot's masterful storytelling, well-developed characters, attention to historical detail, and exploration of themes make for a captivating and emotional read. It is a book that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading, reminding them of the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.
What are readers saying?
Mixed reviews have been received by readers on Goodreads for A Very Long Engagement by Sebastien Japrisot.
The first group of reviewers had high praise for the book, particularly the gripping and unique storyline. They found the plot to be engaging and enjoyed how it combined elements of mystery and war. Readers were captivated by the protagonist's relentless pursuit to uncover the truth about her fiancé's disappearance and appreciated the author's skillful storytelling and character development.
On the other hand, another group of readers had a different opinion. They felt that the story was confusing and convoluted, making it difficult to follow. Some found the multiple narratives and jumps in time to be disorienting, while others thought the plot lacked coherence. These reviewers found the book to be slow-paced and struggled to connect with the characters, affecting their overall enjoyment of the novel.
Opinions also varied on the historical context and portrayal of World War I. Some readers felt that the war aspect overshadowed the central mystery, with the book focusing too heavily on the horrors of war rather than the suspenseful investigation. However, those who appreciated the historical backdrop found it well-researched, appreciating the author's attention to detail.
Regarding the writing style, some readers praised Japrisot's poetic and lyrical prose, considering it beautifully crafted. They believed the author effectively captured the emotions and atmosphere of the time period. However, others found the writing to be overly descriptive and verbose, resulting in a slower pace that hindered their enjoyment of the book.
AVeryLongEngagement BookLovers WWIDrama