Monday, May 4, 2020

Book Review - A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

He can't leave. You won't want to.   That's on the cover blurb and it is so true.

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles is a rich well written lovely book. This book casts a spell as it relates the Count's endeavor to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a man of purpose. (cover blurb)

1922, thirty year old Count Rostov is an unrepentant aristocrat and sentenced to house arrest in the Metropol, a grand hotel across the street from the Kremlin. The Count is moved to an attic room and must make do with a new life. However, in is reduced circumstances he forges new friendships. Fate suddenly puts a young girl in in his hands, he must draw on all his ingenuity to protect the future she so deserves.  (cover blurb)

This summary is far too simplistic. The writing is rich, the cast and characters in the hotel are well developed. The writing is divine. So many simple moments that give one pause.

p. 12
 "A king fortifies himself with a castle, " observed the Count, " a gentleman with a desk."

Early on, he mourns possessions and his loss of the glorious life of freedom he once had.  As he ages, he truly learns about people, priorities, politics, and his capacity to love and fight.

A Gentleman in Moscow is a book to read, savor, and probably read again.

8 comments:

  1. What a lovely review Joanne to what I'm sure is a wonderful book. Have a good week and take care.

    Yvonne.

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    1. thanks. And here's a man who can't leave the hotel. We are folks who can't leave in a way. It makes you appreciate the little things - have to be creative

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  2. Hi Joanne - how interesting ... and I've just seen Kenneth Brannagh is starring in and has a tv series coming out soon. Thanks for this ... interesting to know about Amor Towles too ... I'll note! Take care - Hilary

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    1. wow - I can see Kenneth being brilliant in this portrayal. Cool

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  3. An author who can produce pause through simple moments - that's brilliance.
    Thanks, Joanne.

    Big hugs and a great week to you.

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    1. yep - this was just a quiet nice read with so many great moments. The writing is stellar

      Hugs to you and stay safe,my friend

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  4. I read this book a couple of months ago - in fact it is still in the stack on the night table beside the bed, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. At some point I might even read it again.

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    1. I do think it's one to appreciate on a re-reading. So many good details.

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