Karellen’s Reviews > The Remembered Soldier > Status Update

I hated this book. But also at the same time I loved it. Just like everything worth reading

Just over 100 pages left. Determined to get there even though it’s doing my head in. 😡

OMG. Now reached half way in this incredibly long book which is dragging so badly I feel sick but determined to read on. Claustrophobic suffocating atmosphere. Ugh.

This book is undeniably good, but it’s tough going, slow moving. I’ve been reading for a week and only made 150 pages, much slower than my normal speed. I don’t think I’m cut out for long books, for doorstops.

No wonder this book has 562 pages. It’s extremely slow going. I’ve seen faster snails.

This is an epic Dutch novel published in 2019 and later longlisted for the Booker International (in 2026). The premise is reminiscent of the French film Return of Martin Guerre, but with a slightly different storyline. Intriguing. Anyway I still have over 500 pages which suddenly seems like a daunting prospect.