Restless
Restless
Book Brief
Beta336
Novel • Fiction
Europe • 1940s
2007
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Restless by William Boyd is a gripping novel that follows a person discovering their parent's secret past as a British spy during World War II. The narrative explores themes of identity, trust, and the impact of hidden histories across generations.
Reviews & Readership
28,942 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
William Boyd's Restless is celebrated for its intricate plot and rich character development, with numerous reviews highlighting Boyd's adept storytelling and historical authenticity. Critics praise the suspenseful narrative and the strong female leads, although some find pacing issues and predictable twists. Overall, it's a compelling read blending espionage and emotional depth.
Who Should Read Restless?
A reader who would enjoy Restless by William Boyd likely appreciates historical fiction fused with espionage. This individual enjoys novels such as The Night Manager by John le Carré and All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, where intricate plots and richly-developed characters are integral. The reader is drawn to suspense and well-researched settings.
28,942 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Restless was awarded the Costa Novel Award (formerly the Whitbread Award) in 2006, highlighting its recognition and excellence in literature.
William Boyd, author of Restless, is known for his versatility and his work spans genres including espionage thrillers, historical dramas, and dark comedies, which adds a unique depth to his storytelling.
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The novel was adapted into a television miniseries by the BBC, first airing in 2012, and starred well-known actors such as Hayley Atwell and Charlotte Rampling.
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336
Novel • Fiction
Europe • 1940s
2007
Adult
18+ years
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