On Chesil Beach by Ian McEwan

First off, my first McEwan, which feels overdue!

Secondly, I love the atmosphere in this novel. The descriptions of the Oxford countryside, the very concise descriptions of young people struggling to find their place in the world before the youth revolution of the 60s. The dreary seaside hotel. It all feels so truthful, so anchored in its own moment.

The internal life of the two characters is also very compelling, but I don’t think I’m sure about how it all “comes” together (pun intended). I don’t know why, maybe there’s too much going on, or not enough, but the catastrophic consummation feels not quite right somehow.

I also do and don’t like the ending.

I did enjoy it, and will read more, but not 100% convinced by everything in this novel. Regardless, a beautiful and lyrical read with some really beautiful scenes and language.

Any McEwan recommendations?