The End is Judith Sollosy's translation of Attila Bartis's A vége, forthcoming from Archipelago's fall catalogue. This one grew on me. The story is set in Communist-era Hungary and is just as much about the 20th-century Hungarian experience as it is about the main character. Photography is a central theme, surfacing in a number of ways, starting with the short chapters that feel like snapshots. Despite the assemblage of short chapters, this doesn't feel scattered like fragmented storytelling can often be. I think it's because the chapters are fully developed and shaped in their own right, despite their brevity. The total work, though, is a hefty 675 pages which may be a bit long for the material without more of a forward thrust. Readers interested in historical fiction that bends the narrative form may be particularly keen on this one. Thanks to Archipelago Books for providing a review copy in advance of publication.

It's clear Bartis is exceptionally talented and the translation is incredible.

If you are into historical family sagas then this is an interesting, charector driven take thar covers difficult and complex topics.

I greatly enjoyed the way in which the author presented the world and introduced us to different charectors.

The books main strength was however it's weakness for me. It's a very real portrayal of pretty traumatic events which I found myself unable to continue through after about 50%.

But if you like realism then this would be ideal for you!

Anyone interested in Europe literature and the past along with relationship drama will love this book that takes place in Hungary.