A Gentleman in Moscow

In 1922, Count Alexander Rostov is sentenced to house arrest for the rest of his life.  "House" in this case is the luxurious Metropol Hotel across the street from the Kremlin.  He must also leave the elegant suite he was occupying for a room in the attic of the hotel.  But the Metropol is a world unto itself and the charming Rostov is a well respected member of its society.  Historical changes outside the hotel doors as well as a whole host of interesting characters that come through the doors do much to expand Rostov's "prison".  But Rostov himself is a fascinating observer of the world.  There are so many occasions of wit and wisdom that I just wished I could be sitting at his table for dinner or sharing an evening drink at the elaborate bar or cruising the back stairways with him while we explored all the hotels secrets.  And then there is the great ending. It is a book that you don't expect to be about much but turns out to be worthy of multiple page markers.  One of my favorites this year.