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.
