Reviews

A quick read, feels very timeless and was pretty interesting especially in a post-pandemic world, but I don’t think it’s something that will stick with me much. I also didn’t think the translation was very good, there were some really awkward word choices.

milenkka's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character

4.0

michrego's review against another edition

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mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

mulrine's review against another edition

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4.0

A really interesting premise for a post-apocalyptic dystopian novella. We learn almost nothing of the context or events that have led to the nuclear disaster. But it hardly takes a lot of effort or imagination to fill in some of those blanks yourself.

Holm creates a kind of low-key creeping dread for the reader, but conveys really well the increasing detached and almost apathetic resignation of the narrator and other guests of the hotel.

For me key point of interest is the idea that wealth or affluence can buy safety, and even luxury, in the aftermath of disaster. Holm really lays out quite a believable set of events.

I bought this book after my partner pointed it out guessing I would like it in our local independent bookshop, Drake The Bookshop in Stockton-on-Tees. Support independent bookshops!

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