Atonement by Ian Mcewan
Product details
Web ID: 15661021I can understand the lure...
So Mr. McEwan's prose is beautiful, no doubt. He writes in an almost melodic manner. However, at the same time, his writing is incongruent - often jumping from one scenario to another without solid transitions. Also, in both of his works I've read, he's managed to throw in a shocker or two just to throw his readers for a loop. So, I can see why he is such a notorious author; his work sticks with his readers. The couple allusions to incest definitely turned me off, and I never formed any kind of bond with the characters. So suffice to say, although he's not my favorite author, I can understand his lure!
Customer review from barnesandnoble.com
Depressing ending, too wordy
Just finished this book. Overall, I liked the story. The descriptions, however, were often too long & drawn out, making it tedious to read. I liked the ending, thinking that finally Robbie & Cecelia could have some happiness together. Then, to find out that was a fake ending was a big disappointment. Briony seems to have had a relatively good life, despite having to live with her guilt. The fact that she ruined so many relationships that never were reconciled is the sad & depressing part. Even though she talks of telling the truth to her parents & the authorities, in the end she did not have the courage to do even that. She was a selfish coward, hiding in her writing.
Customer review from barnesandnoble.com