Book Review: Estoril by Dejan Tiago Stanković

Estoril by Dejan Tiago-Stanković: A Timeless Tale of History, Humanity, and Hope

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"Estoril" by Serbian writer and translator Dejan Tiago-Stanković is an exceptional debut novel that takes us back to World War II, immersing readers in the legendary "Estoril" hotel near Lisbon—a focal point of significant events that shaped Europe and the world, thanks to Portugal's neutrality. The hotel became a refuge for prominent figures and unknown individuals alike, leaving their mark on the course of history.

The book’s narrative skillfully weaves together the lives of the guests and hotel staff, creating a rich tapestry of human destinies. The central setting of the novel, the iconic "Estoril" hotel, becomes a character in itself, bearing witness to the diverse human destinies unfolding within its walls. The author skillfully paints a vivid picture of the tumultuous times, captivating readers with beautiful prose and meticulous composition.

At the heart of the novel is a young Jewish Belgian refugee named Gavriel, known as Gaby, waiting for his family's arrival from occupied France at the "Estoril" hotel. He arrives at the hotel without his parents, who were stopped at the border but promised to join him later. Gaby is smart and inquisitive, and despite his difficult circumstances, he retains a sense of hope and curiosity about the world around him. Mr. Black, the hotel's manager, takes an interest in Gaby's situation and decides to allow the boy to stay at the hotel until his parents can join him. This decision sets the stage for the rest of the novel, as Gaby becomes a central figure connecting various historical events and characters.

Throughout the book, Gaby interacts with a host of fascinating guests who pass through the Hotel Palácio Estoril. These guests include Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the renowned author and pilot of "The Little Prince"; Carol II, the former King of Romania; Duško Popov, a double agent who may have served as inspiration for Ian Flemming’s James Bond, Ian Flemming himself: and Alexander Alekhine, the World Chess Champion. The novel delves into the lives and stories of these historical figures, seamlessly blending fiction with reality seamlessly.