A very simple story, which proves ye olde saying of still waters running deep.

Wells' depiction of loss and grief felt very organic and sensitive, especially in the latter half of the book. Other novels which focus on these topics gravitate towards a sadness that packs a punch, both in writing and pacing; The End of Loneliness feels gentle and well-meaning in comparison.

It's the kind of book that doesn't leave you for a couple of days after you have finished it. You'll probably spend more time thinking about it than actually reading it, but that's - in my humble opinion - definitely a good thing.

By the way, if you end up reading it: listen to "Fljótavík" by 12 Ensemble starting from the first couple of Jules/Alva segments - I found it to represent their hope, love and sadness quite well, and having a theme of sorts really helped me strengthen my connection to the story.