A Gentleman in Moscow (Book Review)

A Gentleman in Moscow (Book Review)

A Gentleman in Moscow (Book Review)

I really enjoyed this charming, sentimental, well written book. It is slow going and not much unfolds (until it does) but the characters are varied and interesting, the world view from one person in one place is on point, and the parallels to great Russian literature abound.

The main character, an unapologetic aristocrat, is a Count who is sentenced to house arrest in the hotel he was living in. The Hotel Metropol in Moscow is large and swanky, and is a microcosm for a whole world. The Count takes on his imprisonment with a great attitude and lives out his years with grace, acute perception, and a generosity of spirit. In a society trying to banish the class system, this classy guy treats everyone kindly, and while he appreciates excellence, does not condescend at all to those below his (former) station. How he comports himself over the years, and who he draws into his circle is fascinating to watch.

He finds love, and purpose, and freedom, even within imposed limitations. This is a very pleasant read, and while it may not be edgy enough for everybody, I loved it all the way to the end. I also got a context of Russian history over the progression of the book.  I enjoyed this author, and plan to read more by him.

I warmly recommend A Gentleman in Moscow and give it 5 stars.

 

I work to amplify good wherever I find it. I love color, texture, beauty, great ideas, nature, metaphor, deliciousness, genuine spirituality, and exploring new territory. I encourage authenticity, nurture creativity, champion sustainability, promote peace, and hope to foster a new renaissance where we all are free to be our most fulfilled, multifaceted, and terrific selves. Read more here.

4 Comments

  1. Nancy 5 years ago

    Great review. Gets it all!

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