Far From Me

Customer Reviews

2 reviews

• coffeebookescape

  This book completely swept me into another era and left me thinking about its characters long after I finished the last page. I finished Far From Me yesterday, and it’s one of those historical novels that feels deeply personal despite the enormous scale of the events surrounding it. What begins with two young Australians whose lives are changed by the outbreak of World War II gradually becomes a moving story about friendship, loyalty, love, and the randomness of survival. What I loved most was the relationship between Keith and Johnny. Their friendship develops through wartime training in Canada, the chaos of Montreal, the dangerous Atlantic crossing, and eventually the tension-filled missions flying Lancaster bombers. The author does a wonderful job of showing both the excitement and the fear of young men who are trying to hold on to their humanity while the world around them is falling apart. I also appreciated the quieter moments in the sleepy English market town, which provided a touching contrast to the intensity of the combat sequences. The writing feels grounded and authentic, especially in the way it portrays grief and resilience. My grandfather rarely spoke about his own wartime experiences, but this novel reminded me of the stories that emerged only in fragments over the years. The emotional weight of those silences is captured beautifully here. If I had one small criticism, it’s that I occasionally wanted a little more time with a few of the supporting crew members because they were interesting enough that I became attached to them quickly. I’d recommend Far From Me to readers who enjoy World War II fiction, Australian historical novels, military aviation stories, and character-driven narratives about friendship and endurance. It’s a heartfelt, beautifully written novel that balances the horror of war with moments of hope, humor, and genuine human connection.

• Anonymous

  Far From Me by Adrian McLean carries the reader into the emotional and transformative journeys of two young men who sign up to serve in World War II. At its heart, the novel is not only a war story but also a deeply moving exploration of friendship, loyalty to each other and to the allies, and personal growth under extraordinary circumstances. McLean’s writing is both engaging and sensitive. He invites readers into the hearts and minds of his protagonists, allowing us to experience their hopes, fears, and moral struggles as they leave behind the familiarity of home and deal with the challenges of their mission. Rather than focusing solely on their operational missions, the novel emphasizes internal conflicts that shape the young men as individuals. The pacing keeps the interesting narrative moving while allowing space for reflection. McLean’s attention to emotional nuance ensures the story resonates beyond its historical setting. Far From Me, while giving an Air Force perspective into the war, reminds us that the most powerful stories are often those of connection and shared humanity. Knowing that this novel is based on a true story gives it even greater depth."

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