I loved A Gentleman in Moscow and the Lincoln Highway, two best sellers by literary stylist and mystery writer Amor Towles. I’m happy to report that his new book, Table For Two, is as good or better than either of them.
Towles is a literary writer whose works are also commercially successful, which is no small feat in modern publishing.
The New York Times says Table for Two is really a tale of two cities, New York and Los Angeles, our two cultural capitals on opposite ends of the country. The book is a bold departure from Towles, a socko collection of six short stories and a longer novella, something of a sequel (Rules Of Civility, his first novel), that unfolds during the filming of Gone With The Wind.
The short stories are surprising and enchanting. The novella “Eve in Hollywood” is a knockout. It’s one of the best books of the year, for me, at least so far. Check it out.
Featured photo: it’s pouring outside.
I loved A Gentleman in Moscow and hosted it for my book club. I recreated the dining room of the hotel in my dining room, the good china, silver candlesticks and a huge floral centerpiece. I made the Latvian stew mentioned in the book (found the recipe in an interview Amor Towles did in Goodreads), boiled potatoes and a salad with Russian dressing (of course!) It was a big hit. this year I am hosting the LIncoln Highway and just today I decided since it is an American novel about an American road trip, I’ll just do hamburgers, potato salad and coleslaw. Looking forward to reading the new book!
A couple of years ago a friend recommended A Gentleman in Moscow. I was so enthralled with the plot. Shortly after I finished, The Lincoln Highway came out and within two weeks I’d read both of his two great works. I’m on the waiting list at Libby for his latest work.
Its great Roy, thanks, I think you’ll enjoy it very much..the novella is brilliant, and the short stories are all surprising and well done..
I love Amor Towles, and read all his books.
Currently “Gentleman In Moscow” is a mini series on the Paramount + streaming channel starring Ewan McGregor.
try Rules of Civility. another goody