Summary
Sam Kane is a character from Andrew Fookes’ 2019 debut novel, In Body, In Mind.
In Living Memory is Sam’s one published novel. As the title suggests, it explores the role of memory in the construction of identity. It asks us to consider how it might change us if we lost our connection with the past. And if we have to remember who we love, does that mean we truly love them? If we have to remember what we believe, does that mean our belief is genuine? If we have to remember what we’re like, does that mean our character is authentic? What memories must we keep in order to keep our identity?
This is a story about truth, trust, secrecy and sacred promises. It’s about what happens when we hide who we are from ourselves, and about taking back control of our lives. It’s about how love can grow from nothing, and how it can become our reason for everything.
Mark Strong is going to lose his memory. His wife, Cate, has had a car accident and she’s lost hers, at least for the moment. They embark on a project to recapture Cate’s memory before their entire history has disappeared, but neither can foresee how dredging up their past will profoundly reshape their individual senses of self, and fundamentally alter the course of their relationship.
Geoff Squires –
I totally enjoyed “In Living Memory”, on the surface this philosophical novel follows the journey of a husband and wife trying to reconnect with a lost past while preparing for an inevitable future. Along the way we explore the nature of relationships including familial, personal, professional, sexual and spiritual.
The book deals with the struggle between individual need and sacrifices made for perceived moral responsibility and duty.
The reader is challenged to think about the forces that influence human beliefs, behaviour and perception of identity.
The plot holds many twists which keep you engaged.
A wonderful thought provoking read.