In Concert Performance: A Novel
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In Concert Performance has earned Nikolai Dezhnev praise and international success that is unrivaled by any other contemporary Russian writer. A bestseller in Russia, it brings us…
Book Summary
Nikolai Dezhnev's In Concert Performance is a witty, supernatural love story set in Moscow. A fallen angel, Lukary, inhabits an apartment as a domovoi and falls for Anna, the niece of the deceased owner. The novel blends Russian history, folklore, and romance as Lukary battles a demon and meddles in Anna's marriage. It's a bestseller in Russia, praised for its insight and humor.
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About In Concert Performance: A Novel
In Concert Performance by Nikolai Dezhnev is a bestselling Russian novel that blends supernatural fantasy, historical fiction, and romance. The story follows Lukary, a fallen angel sent back to Earth as a domovoi (a household spirit) to atone for his past. He is assigned to the apartment of an old Bolshevik woman who dies almost immediately. At her funeral, Lukary, disguised as a dashing middle-aged man, meets her niece Anna and falls deeply in love, derailing his penance. When Anna and her physicist husband move into the apartment, Lukary uses supernatural mischief to woo Anna and sabotage her marriage. Meanwhile, a demon sent to watch over him conspires with Anna's husband, leading to chaos that extends far beyond Moscow. The narrative travels between contemporary Moscow and the Spanish Inquisition, offering a witty and insightful exploration of Russia's past and present.
Who should read In Concert Performance: A Novel?
This book is ideal for readers who enjoy literary fiction with a blend of fantasy, romance, and historical elements. Fans of magical realism and Russian literature will appreciate Dezhnev's witty prose and unique take on folklore. Those interested in stories about fallen angels, domestic spirits, and complex love triangles will find it engaging. Additionally, readers who like novels that explore cultural and historical themes—such as Russia's Soviet past and the Spanish Inquisition—will enjoy this imaginative and insightful work.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unique blend of supernatural fantasy, romance, and historical fiction
- ✓ Witty and insightful portrayal of Russian life and history
- ✓ Engaging love story that transcends time and space
- ✓ Rich incorporation of Russian folklore, especially the domovoi
- ✓ Bestseller in Russia with international acclaim
Cons
- ✗ May be too unconventional for readers preferring straightforward romance
- ✗ Historical jumps between Moscow and the Spanish Inquisition could confuse some
- ✗ Supernatural elements might not appeal to all literary fiction fans
- ✗ Cultural references may require some familiarity with Russian context
- ✗ The premise of a fallen angel as a domovoi may feel bizarre to some
Frequently asked questions
What is In Concert Performance about?
It's a novel about a fallen angel named Lukary who is sent back to Earth as a domovoi (household spirit) to atone for his past. He falls in love with Anna, the niece of the apartment's deceased owner, and uses supernatural mischief to win her while a demon conspires against him.
Who is the author of In Concert Performance?
The author is Nikolai Dezhnev, a contemporary Russian writer. The novel is a bestseller in Russia and has received international praise.
Is In Concert Performance a romance novel?
Yes, it is a love story at its core, but it also blends supernatural fantasy, historical fiction, and satire. The romance between Lukary and Anna drives the plot, but the novel also explores Russian history and folklore.
What is a domovoi?
A domovoi is a household spirit in Russian folklore, typically a protective deity of the home. In the novel, the protagonist Lukary takes the form of a domovoi.
Does the book involve historical events?
Yes, the narrative travels between contemporary Moscow and the times of the Spanish Inquisition, weaving historical elements into the story.
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