Reviews

3.5 stars.

Let me just start by saying that this book is exceptionally well-written. I think it’s worth the read if only for the delight of Towles’ lush and extravagant writing style.

Where I found it lacking was in plot. There is nothing really driving the book forward, and there were several points where I had to force myself to keep reading.

Despite that, though, I am so glad I read this book. In the end, it’s not really about the plot. The book itself is a study in how to enjoy the mundane and meandering. Like the protagonist, we find meaning by marveling at the little things, and I think that’s a really good lesson. I am leaving the book better than I came to it.

whiffer's review against another edition

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hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

caitieharty's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

i liked it but didn’t quite love it! author is clearly very capitalist which bleeds into his writing of russian history. but thought it was well written and had charming musings on the world

martinat's review against another edition

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dark emotional funny fast-paced

5.0

kdawn999's review against another edition

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3.0

This is a fine novel, and I like it. The author is clever, and I enjoyed the literary references. It’s a creative way to trace the history of Russia from the revolution. My only problem is that I feel far too comfortable on behalf of all the characters. It’s certainly a safe book to recommend to anyone—cozy, maybe. I feel about this book much like I feel about The Remains of the Day.

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