The Returning

This poignant young adult novel follows Cam, a soldier returning home after a brutal six-year war between the Uplanders and Downlanders. He's an amputee and the only survivor of his unit, but the circumstances of his injury and his comrades' deaths are shrouded in mystery. Driven by deep-seated suspicions, Cam embarks on a journey to uncover the truth, even if it means leaving his family and familiar village behind. It's a story that delves into the profound emotional and physical scars of war, exploring themes of identity, trauma, forgiveness, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Ideal for mature young readers aged 12-18, it offers a contemplative look at the aftermath of conflict.