
Memories! The are part of what make us human - they are the thread that ties our lives together. So, what happens when your memories disappear? In Lost Shadows, Powell examines a wide variety of characters who have lost their memories, for varying reasons. For the young Adam, it was a car crash that killed his parents. For others, it was a variety of reasons; alcoholism, Alzheimer's, early stage dementia, a stroke. All of these ensemble characters are somehow linked to the main character of Adam and Powell spins a series of arcs, that ultimately must meet somewhere and combine with Adam's story.
I found the writing style very descriptive and easy to read. The characters were well filled out and easy to identify with and empathise with, even those characters with some nasty intent in the story. What I particularly liked about the story, was the various characters being able to ask themselves some of the big questions. Why did I choose the path I chose? and What is a life without memories and people to love and be loved by.
At times, I will confess to becoming a little lost and confused, but that is just more perhaps that I haven't caught up with this author's fervid imagination. She has it in spades. My guess, I'll just have to read more Julie Elizabeth Powell. I really enjoyed this book and at times found myself in awe (and just a little jealous) of the author's command over the words. She is very talented. Highly recommend this and indeed any of Powell's work.
