A Gentleman in Moscow is the story of Count Alexander Rostov, who is ordered by Bolshevik revolutionaries to spend the rest of his life inside a luxury hotel. At first, Rostov revels in his new surroundings, but as months turn into years, he comes to realize that being a gentleman inmate is not so bad after all. He meets many interesting characters and has plenty of time for reflectionāand even romance. This lushly written novel will keep you entertained while you learn about Russian history and culture.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for people who appreciate beautiful writing and a well-developed story. If you’re looking for something to take your mind off of everyday life, then this might be the perfect read for you. It also provides some insight into Russian history and culture, so those with an interest in that topic will enjoy it as well.” A Gentleman in Moscow” tells the fascinating story of Count Alexander Rostov’s years spent under house arrest at the luxury Metropol Hotel across from Red Square in Soviet Russia. An insightful look into Russian society during days of upheaval and transformation, Towles’ novel offers readers a chance to escape their own world by immersing themselves fully in another era.
Pros :
- The story is intriguing and well-paced
- The author’s writing style is beautiful and descriptive
- Rostov is a likable, sympathetic character
Cons :
- The book can be slow at times
- It’s a little hard to follow who is who and what is happening
- The ending is a bit ambiguous
Learn more about the author
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Amor Towles graduated from Yale University. He worked in investment banking before becoming a writer. His first novel, Rules of Civility, was published in 2011 and was translated into nearly two dozen languages. A Gentleman in Moscow is his second novel.
Reader Reviews
“The novel paints a vivid portrait of life in Russia during the tumultuous time following World War I and the Bolshevik Revolution. . . A Gentleman in Moscow is an impressive work about an intriguing man who manages to find something good even in his captivity.”
“A Gentleman in Moscow is an astonishing book. Amor Towles has crafted a story of great love, loss, and hope against all the odds. I was riveted to every page.”
“The perfect book to curl up with on a cold winter night.”
“A Gentleman in Moscow is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. Set during turbulent times in Russia, it’s a story of intrigue, revolution, and ultimately human endurance. But more than that, it’s an insightful look at what makes someone truly civilized.”
