A review by bryony_
In Memoriam by Alice Winn

dark emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

This was one hell of a novel. It evoked such visceral emotions and masterfully explores some intense and brutal themes. I’m just in awe at such a work.  
I found it deeply moving and really quite profound at times. Winn paints such a vivid portrait of these young men and their relationship, set against this backdrop of a bloody and senseless war. 
What I think also demonstrates her talent as an author is also being able to bring some moments of humour into her writing- the humour of the men, having endless copies of the same book to read over and over. To go from that and the tenderness of their burgeoning love, to the horrors of trench warfare and the brutal PTSD and mental trauma experienced with such finesse is inspiring. 
I have so many thoughts about this book and I suspect one I’ll keep thinking about for some time. It probably goes without saying it made me cry. 
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