In Memoriam

by Alice Winn
In Memoriam cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Historical Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 1293
  • Added: 2025-10-02
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780241567845
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2023-03-09
  • Formats: 36
  • Reviews: 3
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £14.99
Bookshop
Format • £14.24

In Memoriam is a critically acclaimed debut novel that has been praised by bestselling authors and critics alike. Set in 1914, the story follows Henry Gaunt and Sidney Ellwood, two young men whose lives are forever changed by the onset of World War I. Henry's infatuation with Sidney leads to a series of events that ultimately brings them together on the front lines, where they discover love amidst the chaos of war. The novel is a poignant exploration of love, friendship, and the devastating impact of war on young lives. /n/n The book has garnered numerous accolades, including the Waterstones Novel of the Year Award and the British Book Awards Debut of the Year. It has been compared to classic works like Birdsong and has been described as a genuine page-turner that will leave readers deeply moved. The author's evocative prose and compelling characters make In Memoriam an unforgettable read.

Reviews
Books on the 747 · 2024-02-11
heartwrenching 4.50

The novel is both beautiful and brutal, leaving a lasting impact with its tender yet upsetting portrayal of love and war. It is an exceptionally memorable read that evokes strong emotions.

This reviewer found "In Memoriam" to be a profoundly moving book that balances tenderness and brutality in a way that is both beautiful and deeply unsettling. The story's portrayal of love and war is so vivid that it lingers long after the last page. They were deeply affected by the emotional depth and the raw, honest depiction of the characters' experiences. The novel's ability to evoke such strong emotions makes it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    In Memoriam is just so beautiful and tender, while being brutal and upsetting.

    It's an exceptionally memorable read.

    My heart was in my mouth.

Jo Tuffrey · Jo Tuffrey · 2023-05-16
captivating 4.75

This powerful read is impossible to put down, with clever narrative shifts that enhance the storytelling. The reviewer loved the innovative way the story is told, making it a gripping and unforgettable experience.

Jo Tuffrey found "In Memoriam" to be an incredibly powerful and engaging read that she couldn't put down. She particularly appreciated the clever narrative techniques used by Alice Winn, which added depth and intrigue to the story. The reviewer was captivated by the way the different formats and perspectives were woven together, making the reading experience both unique and deeply moving. This novel's ability to hold her attention and evoke strong emotions is a testament to its excellence.

Quick quotes

    This is an incredibly powerful read that I could not put down.

    I loved the way Alice has told this story; cleverly changing formats from ...

    A gripping and unforgettable experience.

The Guardian · 2023-03-12
vibrant 4.00

The novel is epic and intimate, blending humor and profundity to vividly depict the madness and legacy of World War I. It offers a unique lens through which to view the war's impact on love and relationships.

The Guardian's reviewer highlights how "In Memoriam" masterfully balances epic and intimate storytelling, making it a profoundly impactful read. The blend of humor and profundity adds layers to the narrative, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. They particularly appreciate the vivid rendering of the war's brutality and its effect on the characters' relationships, which makes the story both timeless and deeply relevant.

Quick quotes

    In Memoriam is at once epic and intimate, humorous and profound.

    A vivid rendering of the madness and legacy of the first world war.

    Seen through the lens of love and frontline brutality.

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