"The Buried Giant" by Kazuo Ishiguro

At first I was puzzled by this fantasy-like novel of post Arthurian times. The plot didn't seem to be heading anywhere and I wondered what such a well respected author was getting at. It did eventually develop an interesting plot which included Merlin enchanting a giant's breath to make a land forgetful. The ending, which included the old couple, Axl and Beatrice, and the boatman, was unsatisfying. Would it have killed the author to have given them a happy ending? That said, I guess I'm glad I read this book. It certainly had a very pronounced atmosphere.