I read A Gentleman in Moscow around 2016 when the book was released. I read it again this week. I am glad I did. The book is amazing. A Gentleman in Moscow transports you to the Metropol Hotel in Moscow during post-revolutionary Russia. The best-selling author Amor Towles paints the story of the life of former aristocrat Count Alexander Rostov who is sentenced to house arrest in the Metropol Hotel. I am glad he did. And, yes, the Metropol is real hotel.
Without a doubt, you will be captivated by the clever and charming Count Rostov who makes the best of his house arrest. The story will take you through the 1920’s to the 1950’s and you will see the transformation of the Count, from a man of privilege to one of humility. The whole time the Count remains dignified and you can’t help but like him more as you read. The Count is constantly providing pearls of wisdom, such as “A man must master his circumstances or otherwise be mastered by them” and “We have all experienced the benefits of good luck in our lives—but seldom have the temerity to acknowledge them.”
But it is not only the Count who makes the book enjoyable. I was amazed at how Amor Towles introduces and describes the unforgettable cast of characters. Each character is described so vividly that you can see them and you feel as if you know them. I felt like I knew the employees at the Metropol and even Nina, the young girl, who the Count befriends. Nina’s youthful exuberance teaches the Count a few things about life and injects a sense of hope and wonder into his life. There is never a dull moment at the Metropol.
Another captivating character is the hotel itself. Amidst the wonderful characters, the novel explores themes of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring power of human connection. Count Rostov’s ability to find meaning and beauty in the small moments of life, despite his limited surroundings, is inspiring and thought-provoking. The book will make you feel good and make you appreciate the small things in life.
If you want to read a great book of fiction. You will be happy to read A Gentleman in Moscow.