Book Erudition..!!
Title: PERESTROIKA [Eye for an eye; tooth for a tooth]
Author: João Cerqueira
Pages: 484
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publication date: 24 January 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
About Author..!!
João Cerqueira holds a PhD in Art History from the University of Porto. He is the author of nine books published in eight countries: Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, England, the United States, Brazil, and Argentina. He won the 2020 Indie Reader Awards, the 2014 Global ebook Awards, and the 2013 USA Best Book Awards.
Book Description..!!
Perestroika overthrows communist regimes in Europe..!!
In the People’s Republic of Slavia, the former leaders are trying to survive the new times, while their victims seek revenge. Former President Alfred Ionescu is placed in an asylum he himself built. Zut Zdanov, the head of culture, is confronted with his child abuse. Helena Yava, responsible for education, wants to avenge her lover’s death.
Igor Olin, responsible for the economy, fights for his disabled son to have a dignified life. Art historian Silvia Lenka wants to know who her parents are. Lia Kirchner, the daughter of a painter who died in a re-education camp, wants to know the truth. Having as a binding element Pilate’s question to Jesus “What is truth?”, Perestroika is a novel of revenge, redemption, and catharsis inspired by recent European history.
Perestroika is a historical fiction novel that provides thrilling insights into the late Communist era. The book opens in 1978 and introduces citizens of Slavia like artist Ludwig Kirchner, struggling to survive in concentration camps, whilst the terrifying elites of the regime live in luxury and moral depravity. It all changed in 1989, with Perestroika. In the revolutionary turmoil, former crime boss Ivan Fiorov leads the newly formed ‘Freedom Party’, heralding a wave of insecurity that resembles the previous dictatorship.
Revenge, redemption, and catharsis collide head-on with recent European history. With Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, alongside a resurgence of populist leaders and neo-Nazi movements across the world, Perestroika is as much a lens into the present as an exciting epitome of the past.
Book Prelude..!!
Perestroika – An Eye for an Eye, a Tooth for a Tooth by João Cerqueira is a historical fiction. The story takes us on a captivating journey through the fictional land of Slavia, a place caught up in the whirlwind of changes happening in Europe. The story unfolds as the old way of ruling, known as communism, crumbles, leaving the leaders in Slavia dealing with a whole new set of problems. Among them is Former President Ionescu, who used to be in control but now finds himself stuck in his own troubles.
My Nuances..!!
The heart of the tale introduces us to various characters facing unique challenges. Helena, in charge of education, becomes a beacon of goodness amid the chaos. She sides with the protesters, wanting what’s best for the people. Another character, Olin, fights hard to ensure his disabled son has a good life despite the challenges brought about by the changing times.
This book is a great pick for those..!!
Who enjoys reading historical and literary fiction and also those who are interested in politics and human rights. This book is a perfect blend of politics, arts, and tragedy with a tinge of humor.
My Thoughts..!!
Perestroika – An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth not only entertains but also makes you ponder essential themes like truth, revenge, and coping with change. The novel draws inspiration from recent Europe’s history, weaving together a narrative that feels like a thrilling adventure.
It’s a thought-provoking read that manages to balance excitement with reflection on the profound aspects of life during times of transformation. If you’re into stories that not only capture your imagination but also make you think, “Perestroika – is definitely worth diving into.
Author Accolades..!!
His works are published in The Adirondack Review, Ragazine, Berfrois, Cleaver Magazine, Bright Lights Film, Modern Times Magazine, Toad Suck Review, Foliate Oak Literary Magazine, Hypertext Magazine, Danse Macabre, Rapid River Magazine, Contemporary Literary Review India, Open Pen Magazine, Queen Mob’s Tea House, The Liberator Magazine, Narrator International, The Transnational, BoldType Magazine, Saturday Night Reader, All Right Magazine, South Asia Mail.
What Makes Perestroika Worth Reading?
What stands out in Joao Cerqueira’s writing is his skill in describing things. It’s like he paints a vivid picture, making readers feel like they’re right there in Slavia, experiencing the events firsthand. The story is a rollercoaster of surprises which makes it gripping enough. As a book blogger, I’m genuinely excited about exploring more of Cerqueira’s work.
Links & FootNote..!!
My Handle: Kiran_Kumar_Adharapuram
Author Handle: João Cerqueira
You can also explore my works -> Here
My Non-Fiction Book Reviews -> Here
My Fiction Book Reviews -> Here
My Self-Help Book Reviews -> Here
