A review by jesselynn
Absolutely and Forever by Rose Tremain

reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

A moving little story that begins with fifteen-year-old Marianne and her obsession with eighteen-year-old Simon Hurst - her very first love - who she becomes entangled with in 1950s England. The novella follows her into the 60s, and explores how her longing for him haunts her throughout her life, far into the years after they first met. 

Absolutely & Forever is about yearning, but also perspective. We are in Marianne's head, we see the world and those in her life through her eyes: but with subtext, the added nuance of her best friend Pet and revelations concerning her upbringing, we come to know Marianne in a way she is unable to see herself. Tremain has such an excellent sense of time and place in her novels, and she brings historical environments to life with wonderful verve. 60s England is vivid and rich here, and I found myself entirely transported back in time.

This is a character piece, with elegant and at times profound prose that was easy to read and quick to get through. I blitzed through this in a day - I found Marianne's story entirely enthralling. A perfect gift book, as it's literary yet accessible, moving and reflective. 

Thank you Vintage for the reading copy!