A review by trundle
The Village of Stepanchikovo by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Ignat Avsey

3.5

Another one of Dostoyevsky's early works, and it certainly shows. Ultimately, the novel just doesn't feel fleshed out. It has the makings of what could be a more interesting novel, but it's simply not all there. The plot is, at first, intriguing enough: the main character, Sergey, is summoned to his uncle's estate and is told that he will marry a woman named Nastenka. However, upon arrival, it's clear that a man named Foma Fomich has complete control of what goes on at the estate. He is undeniably the most interesting character, and this is do to his rather complex nature. Yes, it's easy to see that he manipulates everyone around him and thinks himself superior, but why? He doesn't seem to be after money or status, or at least not so on the surface. As the novel progresses, a bit becomes more clear. Nastenka has no intention of marrying Sergey, and it's revealed that her and his uncle are actually in love. As such, Sergey isn't exactly sure why he was brought to the estate. There's also some occasionally intriguing interactions with others who are present at the estate, but it doesn't really amount to much. Ultimately, Fomich gives his blessing to Sergey's uncle and Nastenka so that they can marry. And while this seems like a nice deed, one is left wondering if it's truly a benevolent act or if Fomich is up to something. It's never made clear, which is fine, and one can easily come up with their own interpretation, I just feel there isn't enough there to make it genuinely interesting or thought provoking when all is said and done.