"A Gentleman in Moscow"

 

Not his everyday view

I'd categorize "A Gentleman in Moscow" as historical fiction with a humorous slant. The titular gentleman is Alexander Rostov, a Russian aristocrat who returns to the country after the Communist revolution of 1917. To his own surprise, rather than being put to death, he's sentenced to live under house arrest in the Hotel Metropol in the center of Moscow, never again to leave its premises.

A few first chapter details below.

As a count, Rostov lived in a luxurious suite filled with family heirlooms, memories, and most importantly his books, but as a prisoner he's sent to a tiny attic with barely enough room to stand. What's a man of culture to do when he's kept from his worldly interests? Soon, while befriending the hotel's quirky fellow residents and staff, Rostov discovers the hotel is an entire expansive world unto itself, more than rich enough to entertain a curious soul as the years pass and Russian history progresses just outside his window.

Verdict: "A Gentleman in Moscow" is a celebration of the human spirit and drive to find meaning and do good. Recommended.