A Better Man

Lynn%E2%80%99s debut proves an intense, emotional, and stunning exploration into the psychological horrors of war. After the decade-long Soviet war with Afghanistan, Vladimir Verstakov returns to the U.S.S.R., the sole survivor of a convoy attack. His memories are vivid and painful, and the slightest sound can trigger a flashback. Skillfully weaving Vladimir%E2%80%99s memories into the narrative, Lynn enables readers to go through the pain Vladimir feels on a daily basis. His loving wife, Vhanna, fears for both her husband and herself, as his violent outbursts begin to drastically alter their lives. After speaking to another veteran, Vladimir becomes fixated on finding an %E2%80%9CIskra%E2%80%9D: a purpose in life or something to believe in. Lynn meticulously unravels the raw emotions of post-traumatic stress disorder and the massive destruction war inflicts not only on soldiers but also on their family and friends. Vladimir and Vhanna are sympathetic, true-to-life, well-crafted characters. And Lynn does a spectacular job creating a novel to which all readers will be able to relate.