I just finished a book that left me sitting quietly for a while, just thinking. It's called Le Purgatoire (The Purgatory) by Thierry Sandre, and it’s one of those reads that sticks with you.

The Story

The story follows a French officer after he returns from the front lines of World War I. On the surface, he's fine—he’s alive, he’s home. But inside, he’s completely adrift. The book walks us through his days as he tries to slip back into a normal life that no longer feels normal or even real. He’s surrounded by people who can’t understand what he’s been through, and he’s haunted by memories he can’t escape. It’s a portrait of a man trapped in a personal limbo, caught between the hell of war and a peace he can’t quite reach.

Why You Should Read It

What got me was how real it feels. Sandre, who served himself, doesn’t give us epic battles or political speeches. He gives us the small, heavy moments: the awkward silence at the dinner table, the way a sudden noise makes him jump, the feeling of being a ghost among the living. It’s a powerful look at trauma and recovery long before we had those words for it. The writing is sharp and clear, pulling you right into the character’s confused headspace. You feel his isolation and his struggle to find solid ground again.

Final Verdict

This isn’t a fast-paced war novel. It’s a slow, thoughtful character study. If you’re interested in the human side of history, especially the deep and lasting impact of World War I on the people who fought it, you need to read this. It’s also perfect for anyone who loves stories that explore the quiet, internal battles we all face after life throws us a major curveball. A truly moving and unforgettable book.