Grey Souls by Philippe Claudel

Set against the backdrop of World War I in a small French town, the novel delves into the cold and somber atmosphere of a community living in the shadow of conflict. The story revolves around the mysterious death of a young girl, whose body is found by the river, and the subsequent investigation that unfolds years later. The narrative, rich with melancholy and introspection, is told through the eyes of a policeman who becomes obsessed with the case. As he delves deeper into the town's secrets and the grey souls of its inhabitants, the lines between victim and perpetrator blur, revealing the complex nature of guilt and the human psyche amidst the pervasive despair of war.

The 7960th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 78

Since this book was first published in 2003, there is a penalty of 46.4%. The age adjusted score is 41.81.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.