"Separate Rooms" by Pier Vittorio Tondelli is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows Leo, a gay Italian writer in his thirties, as he copes with the death of his German lover, Thomas, who died of AIDS. The narrative unfolds in three parts, incorporating flashbacks and reflections that explore their relationship alongside Leo's journey of self-discovery and healing.

The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and self-acceptance within a society that struggles to embrace their bond. Leo's grief after Thomas's death leads him on a path of cathartic self-reconstruction, where he confronts loneliness while cherishing their memories. Tondelli portrays non-traditional love, highlighting the characters' struggles and flaws within societal constraints. Instead of being plot-driven, the novel serves as a rumination on the past, grief, and the quest to understand one's present and future.

The story's structure mirrors Leo's emotional phases, resembling a symphony of experiences, with the three acts representing different movements. Leo, acting as Tondelli's alter ego, navigates through grief and introspection, while Thomas's presence profoundly influences Leo's journey. Set in the 1970s and 80s, the novel also touches on themes of drug use as a means of escapism, as well as the concepts of found family, community, and counterculture in opposition to heteronormativity.

Overall, "Separate Rooms" poignantly explores the complexities of love and identity against a backdrop of societal expectations. Fans of "Tin Man," "A Single Man," and perhaps Andrew Haigh's films may particularly enjoy this read. Thank you to NetGalley and Zando for the ARC.