Hotel Splendid by Marie Redonnet

The book unfolds within the walls of a dilapidated hotel managed by three generations of women, each struggling with their own burdens and secrets. The protagonist, a young woman, tirelessly works to keep the establishment afloat despite its decline, facing a constant battle against the encroaching sand that threatens to engulf the building and the nearby sea that is slowly receding. Her efforts are compounded by the needs of her aging grandmother and sickly mother, as well as the demands of the few odd guests who still visit the hotel. The narrative is a haunting exploration of isolation, perseverance, and the weight of familial obligations, set against a backdrop of inevitable decay and the passage of time.

The 5831st greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 84

Since this book was first published in 1986, there is a penalty of 19.2%. The age adjusted score is 67.87.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.