I've just finished
All Clear by
Connie Willis -- the conclusion of the time-travel/WWII/great characters story she began in
Blackout. With both books, I felt a little muddled and confused at times. Not only does the reader go back and forth between 2060 Oxford and WWII-era England, but that reader must also follow the pathways of a given character at various points during various years. I couldn't decide if I was confused because I'm dumb, because the reader is supposed to be confused (which I'd be okay with), or because I should be less ignorant of WWII history/European geography. I'm guessing that it may be a combination of all three. ;)
Nonetheless, it all largely came together for me by the end of
All Clear and I'm glad I persevered. Willis' storytelling is rich and the conclusion so satisfying. I'm a big fan of what ifs to start with and that is a part of the appeal but there is more than that to my enjoyment of her books. And of course I was amused by the brief cameo of a certain mystery author in her role as a dispensary worker.
I think I'm going to need to reread the first one before I check this one out. The only thing I clearly remember is my disappointment that there was a second book.
ReplyDeleteI've just started Blackout, so I've got a ways to go before I even have a clue what's going on!
ReplyDeleteHelen, I would definitely re-read it -- I think there were only a few weeks between them for me, and any longer would've been hard.
ReplyDeleteLKT, I'll be interested to hear what you think.
I'll try to remember. I'm suffering massive memory failure right now.
ReplyDeleteI finished both books again. I'm very glad I reread the first one because I was able to pick up the second one and move on quickly. I don't like that it was split into two books.
ReplyDeleteFor the most part I don't think endings are Connie Willis's strength. This book didn't make me change my mind. I adored all of the history in the book. It's one of the reasons I love her so much. I enjoyed this book and it makes me want to read more about Britain in WWII and Agatha Christie. I think any confusion you had was confusion the author intended.
I'm glad you think it wasn't me. :)
ReplyDelete