Book Review | Lessons by Ian McEwan - A Heartwarming Story

When Lessons was first published in hardback Book Twitter went crazy for it, or at least the side of Twitter I’m on did, so when the opportunity arose to be on the blog tour for the paperback publication I jumped at the opportunity. A decision I do not regret. 

When the world is still counting the cost of the Second World War and the Iron Curtain has descended, young Roland Baine’s life is turned upside down. Stranded at boarding school, his vulnerability attracts his piano teacher, Miriam Cornell, leaving scars as well as a memory of love that will never fade.

Twenty-five years later Roland’s wife mysteriously vanishes, and he is left alone with their baby son. Her disappearance sparks a journey of discovery that will continue for decades, as Roland confronts the reality of his rootless existence and attempts to embrace the uncertainty - and freedom - of his future. 

Lessons is an absolute treat that will have you hooked from the first page. I could not put this book down and I repeatedly found myself thinking about it when I was too busy to read. 

McEwan manages to take you on this wild adventure through the lives of fascinating characters. It's like McEwan plucked them straight out of reality and put them directly onto the pages. They're incredibly relatable and full of quirks that you'll find yourself invested in their lives. You'll be cheering them on, shedding a tear or two, and feeling like you've made new friends.

If you're new to McEwans work, as I was, this book is the perfect introduction to his icon storytelling. It's a feel-good ride that'll leave you wanting more. Thank you to Random Things Tours and Vintage for having me on this blog tour, a pleasure as always!