"Atonement" is a novel by Ian McEwan that explores themes of guilt, love, and the consequences of a single act. The story is set in England before, during, and after World War II, focusing on the lives of Briony Tallis, a young girl whose misunderstanding leads to a tragic event that alters the lives of her sister Cecilia and her lover Robbie Turner. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives and timelines, revealing how Briony seeks redemption for her actions. The novel examines the complexities of memory and the power of storytelling, ultimately questioning the possibility of forgiveness and the nature of truth.