Perestroika: olho por olho, dente por dente

by João Cerqueira

A Perestroika derruba os regimes comunistas na Europa.
Na República Popular da Eslávia os antigos dirigentes tentam sobreviver aos novos tempos, enquanto as suas vítimas procuram vingar-se.
O ex-presidente Alfred Ionescu é colocado num asilo que ele próprio construíra.
Zut Zdanov, o responsável pela cultura, é confrontado com os seus abusos de crianças. Helena Yava, a responsável pela educação, quer vingar a morte da amante.
Igor Olin, o responsável pela economia, luta para que o filho deficiente possa ter uma vida digna.
A historiadora da arte Silvia Lenka quer saber quem são os seus pais.
Lia Kirchner, filha de um pintor que morreu num campo de reeducação, quer saber a verdade.
Entretanto, um populista toma o poder e emergem movimentos neonazis.

Tendo como elemento aglutinador a pergunta de Pilatos a Jesus «o que é a verdade?», Perestroika é um romance de vingança, redenção e catarse inspirado na história europeia recente.

Finalista no 2021 Eyland Awards.
Finalista 2021 Fiction Factory
Bronze Medal no 2023 Latino Book Awards
Exerto nomeado para o Pushcar Prize 2023.

Genres: Historical Fiction

390 pages, Paperback

First published January 25, 2024

About the author

João Cerqueira was born and lives in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
He holds a PhD in Art History from the University of Porto.

He is the author of nine books and is published in eight countries: Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, England, United States, Brazil, Argentina.
He won the 2020 Indie Reader Awards, the 2014 Global ebook Awards and the 2013 USA Best Book Awards.

The short storie A house in Europe won the 2015 Speakando European Literary Contest, received the bronze medal in the Ebook Me Up Short Story Competition 2015 and an honorable mention in the Glimmer Train July 2015 Very Short Fiction Award.
The short storie The dictator and poetry was published in the 2016 Bombay Review Anthology.

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, Near to the Nuckle, Narrator International, The Transnational.

Reviews

[Jamedi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review originally on JamReads

Perestroika is a historical fiction novel, an ambitious book written by Joao Cerqueira that takes us to the fictional country of Slavia, a communist regimen that is caught under the winds of change the rest of Europe is experimenting. With a brutalist prose, rich in visual description, Cerqueira weaves a choral play that uses really different characters to tell us the story of Slavia and the change of regimen: from communism to a "democracy".

The first half of the novel depicts the year 1978, introducing us to Slavia and the communist regimen directed by Alfred Ionescu; a regimen that oppresses and persecutes the normal citizens, while the elites get enriched because of the corrupt nature of the system. In this situation, Cerqueira introduces us to those citizens that are struggling under the system, even being sent to concentration camps, such as Ludwig Kirchner; at the same, even if the elites are benefitting from this system, the author manages to give them a layer of humanity, nuances that separate them from the prototypical villain image. In the style of literary fiction, and using the POVs of characters at each level of the ladder, Cerqueira creates a really complete picture of everything in Slavia.
The second half is set eleven years later, 1989, after Perestroika is promulgated by Gorbachov; Slavia is not indifferent to the change. Ionescu's regimen has fallen, but the establishment of a new power will prove to be more complicated than it seemed. Ivan Fiorov, Koba, a gang boss, is the new leader of the "Freedom Party" and has intentions of using the democracy to reach the power, establishing in the process a government that resembles in many aspects to former regimen; Cerqueira mimics how the fall of many dictatorships was followed by the establishment of democracies that ended just being usurped by the oligarchs. What started as a wave of hope for Slavia ended being just simply a change of those in power.

Characters are an important part of what makes Perestroika shine, the actors in this collective play that tell us the history of Slavia. From really different origins, all of them will be witnesses and part of the change; they have their own interests and worries, showing their humanity even in the vilest of them. Ivan Fiorov is probably the most remarkable one, that gang boss that understands how to navigate the waters in both situations; and if I can say that, the capitalist guy who gets benefit from the sourest of moments.

Using Slavia as a setting allows Cerqueira to take some creative freedoms, blending together historical moments from other countries; however, despite the imaginary nature of it, the author manages to give it a huge amount of credibility, being extremely accurate to the images we had from that time.

Perestroika is a tour de force of historical fiction, an excellent novel that if you like the genre, you will absolutely love; a character driven story which ambitiously describes the evolution from Ionescu's regimen to the "democracy".

[Kimberly Bowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perestroika is a well written and thought-provoking historical fiction novel that once I started reading I couldn't put down! By giving narration to the varied perspectives of a precarious political system, it made me want to learn more about the individual characters, their motives, and how their stories were connected. Though it is set in the late 1970s and 1980s, this book is relevant in today’s political climate with Cerqueira’s characters and themes echoing modern day conflicts. Skillfully weaving historical events into a fictional universe, Perestroika gives readers a front row seat to the impacts of class divide on all facets of society - and the lengths those in power will go to in order to keep it.

[Kristine L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Does beauty require freedom?”

This question is the building block upon which this epic historical fiction book is based.

Perestroika is set in communist Slavia during the tumultuous late 1970s and 1980s. The basic story follows the lives of several characters from the height of their power, influence and corruption to their subsequent fall after the totalitarian government of President Ionescu is topples in the late 1980s.

As Slavian society beings to change with perestroika, those soon to become ex-“people’s commissars” must scramble to survive. Because revenge is a dish best served cold. And there's a lot of "cold" in this book.

In terms of structure, Perestroika is divided into two basic parts. Part I is Paradise on Earth - 1978. Part II is Perestroika - 1989. The first part is dark and brooding. Bleak. Forbidding. Gray.

To be sure, communist Slavia is a pretty grim place. To put it mildly. Everything is falling apart. Infrastructure. Food and agricultural production. The education system. Transportation. Factory production. The economy. Relationships. And while the average person suffers want and deprivation and the constant threat of being sent to a dreaded "re-education camp,” the elites are living it up.

Indeed, corruption and depravity reign supreme at every level of Slavian government. But it is perhaps most obvious and egregious among the so-called “People’s Commissars” and other high-ranking Party members. These political chameleons give pond scum a bad name. They include:

Pietr Schwartz. Chief of the dreaded secret police, Schwartz is the second most powerful man in the country. You really, really don’t want to wind up catty-wampuss to this guy.

Igor Olin, “People’s Commissar for the Economy." Translation: A shameless self-promoter and opportunist. Olin is also a master thief who steals his own country blind in order to line his own pockets.

Ivan Fiorov, or Koba. A notorious black marketeer operating within the camp where Kirchner is imprisoned. He’s also a crime boss and pretty much runs Slavia. He knows how to get to The Top and stay there.

Zut Zdanhov. People’s Commissar for Culture and Propaganda. Pedophile, thief, and all-around putz. This guy would sell out his own grandmother to save his own sorry hide.

Helena Yava. The People’s Commissar for Education. She's tasked with creating the “New Man and New Woman.” These are supposed to be human beings “who are immune to the ancient vices”… “citizens entirely devoted to the cause who had never been tainted by bourgeois habits.” Good luck with that, sister. As Machiavellian as the rest.

A key figure in this story is Ludwig Kirchner. A painter denounced by a jealous colleague, Kirchner winds up in a brutal, freezing cold “re-education camp” in the middle of nowhere. (Hi, Ivan Denisovich.)

Kirchner’ wife Maria and thirteen year-old daughter Lia are persona non grata by association in the “worker’s paradise” of Slavian communism where average “comrades” go hungry while the big shots guzzle champagne and caviar.

In fact, pretty much every party apparatchik in this whole book is a sham. A fake. There’s also endless buck-passing. Finger-pointing. Blame-gaming. Most characters run the gamut of unsavory, from thief to liar to pedophile to uber putz. That’s kind of the point. There’s also “Lubianka Prison,” apparently modeled after the notorious Lubyanka prison of KGB fame in Moscow.

The second half – perestroika – opens with the Communist system teetering on the rim edge of collapse as Gorbachev initiates perestroika and glasnost in the Soviet Union. (Those of us old enough to remember will recognize and understand the historical references.)

The market is finally allowed to function – sort of. Some freedom of expression is allowed. Gorby’s Soviet Union (remember that?) isn’t tyrannizing Eastern Bloc countries. But life in Slavia isn’t exactly a garden party. Remnants of the brutal repression of Stalin and his cohorts linger. For example, a militia is recruited and trained to pummel the stuffing out of any Slavian protestors. This includes one Lia Kirchner, daughter of the unfortunate artist who died in a wretched concentration camp.

Many of the characters introduced in Part I re-appear in Part II, but in very different and sometimes surprising circumstances. (Hi, Ionescu.)

This is a well-written book that’s a prodigious read, clocking in at more than 430 pages. It includes an intricate plot, multi-layered characters, and an ambitious timeline spanning several unique settings and contexts. Themes explored include the use of art as propaganda, the use of art as resistance or “protest,” corruption, loyalty, survival, and the price of freedom. There are also plenty of ethical dilemmas. It’s a story “with many villains, but no hero.”

It’s intense, raw, and brooding. Part philosophy, part history, part theology and pedagogy, it’s an esoteric walk through history that explores the dynamics of power within both a totalitarian regime and personal relationships. Also the struggle for freedom and truth. It’s the kind of book that sort of sneaks up on you and smacks you upside the head when you’re lookin’ in the other direction.

The writing is stark and stunning. It draws you into a society ruled by fear and censorship. So If you’re looking for a light and frothy read of the lemon meringue variety, keep looking. Cuz Perestroika ain’t it.

Kindly note that Perestroika isn’t the kind of book you skip through merrily at warp speed. It’s multi-layered, multi-faceted, and multi-textured. You can’t read this book with one eye on the page and the other on an incoming text message. Nopers. Perestroika requires your full attention and every functional brain cell firing on all thrusters.

Erudite, eloquent and perspicacious, Perestroika has a Solzhenitsyn/Kafka/Pasternak/Dostoevsky flavor.

So. Does beauty require freedom? Perestroika doesn't spoon-feed readers an answer. It lets you decide.

And that, friends, is perhaps the whole point.

My Rating: 3.5

[Reader Views · Rating 4 out of 5]

Readers of fiction have come to think of the protagonist in a novel as a person. In the case of Joao Cerqueira’s “Perestroika: An Eye for an Eye, a Tooth for a Tooth,” a historical trip through the fall of the Iron Curtain, the protagonist is instead a country.

Slavia’s pre-communist history was much like that of other Eastern Bloc countries placed under the Soviet aegis after World War II. Loyalty to the party replaced any kind of nationalism, and any deviation from it was punishable by prison and death. That reporting deviation would become a means of exacting revenge was inevitable.

To be responsible for sending one’s parents or a brother to a re-education camp, to show more love for the Party than for family, to break the ties of blood for the sake of party doctrine, was considered a proof of complete rehabilitation, and naturally was rewarded by a more ample basket of groceries.

Perestroika is usually translated as “reconstruction, rearrangement” but also as “rebuilding, alteration, or realignment.” Mr. Cerqueira’s tapestry on the loom of Slavia involves threads of many different textiles, from the totalitarian leader Ionescu to the hapless artist Kirchner, whose legacy is a quiet but dominant pattern through to the novel’s end. True to the book’s title, the ironic story of the passage from one ideology to another shows how all too often the more things change the more they remain the same as the transition is more rearranging than rebuilding.

Under totalitarian communism that bears an unsurprising resemblance to the era of Stalin, the party cadre thrives while the working class that communism is meant to elevate continues to suffer economic slavery. The mildest complaint voiced too loudly can get the complainer shipped off to a “re-education camp,” which for most is a life sentence.

The dream of replacing it with Western capitalism drives those brave enough to challenge the regime even though capitalism “only guarantees a bare minimum of freedom to the citizen, but it allows him to grow rich.”

When, at last, that dream is realized it only replaces one type of criminal with another.

Democracy might become a dangerous game. The ones who knew best how to play it were criminals, opportunists, and madmen.

The amazing thing is that despite all that, some of those threads in this tapestry managed to maintain the belief that life really could be better and were willing to fight for it. To the death, if need be.

“Perestroika” by Joao Cerqueira is so relevant to the present moment as the world’s economies, many emerging from centuries of imperialist exploitation, are undergoing sometimes disruptive change.

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Readers of fiction have come to think of the protagonist in a novel as a person. In the case of Joao Cerqueira’s “Perestroika: An Eye for an Eye, a Tooth for a Tooth,” a historical trip through the fall of the Iron Curtain, the protagonist is instead a country.

Slavia’s pre-communist history was much like that of other Eastern Bloc countries placed under the Soviet aegis after World War II. Loyalty to the party replaced any kind of nationalism, and any deviation from it was punishable by prison and death. That reporting deviation would become a means of exacting revenge was inevitable.

To be responsible for sending one’s parents or a brother to a re-education camp, to show more love for the Party than for family, to break the ties of blood for the sake of party doctrine, was considered a proof of complete rehabilitation, and naturally was rewarded by a more ample basket of groceries.

Perestroika is usually translated as “reconstruction, rearrangement” but also as “rebuilding, alteration, or realignment.” Mr. Cerqueira’s tapestry on the loom of Slavia involves threads of many different textiles, from the totalitarian leader Ionescu to the hapless artist Kirchner, whose legacy is a quiet but dominant pattern through to the novel’s end. True to the book’s title, the ironic story of the passage from one ideology to another shows how all too often the more things change the more they remain the same as the transition is more rearranging than rebuilding.

Under totalitarian communism that bears an unsurprising resemblance to the era of Stalin, the party cadre thrives while the working class that communism is meant to elevate continues to suffer economic slavery. The mildest complaint voiced too loudly can get the complainer shipped off to a “re-education camp,” which for most is a life sentence.

The dream of replacing it with Western capitalism drives those brave enough to challenge the regime even though capitalism “only guarantees a bare minimum of freedom to the citizen, but it allows him to grow rich.”

When, at last, that dream is realized it only replaces one type of criminal with another.

Democracy might become a dangerous game. The ones who knew best how to play it were criminals, opportunists, and madmen.

The amazing thing is that despite all that, some of those threads in this tapestry managed to maintain the belief that life really could be better and were willing to fight for it. To the death, if need be.

“Perestroika” by Joao Cerqueira is so relevant to the present moment as the world’s economies, many emerging from centuries of imperialist exploitation, are undergoing sometimes disruptive change.

[Asha Seth · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Perestroika: Eye for an Eye; Tooth for a Tooth' by João Cerqueira is a compelling historical fiction novel that delves into the transformative period of the late Communist era in Eastern Europe. Set in the fictional nation of Slavia, the narrative spans from 1978 to 1989, capturing the societal upheavals and personal struggles during the decline of a totalitarian regime. Winner of the Historical Fiction Company Book of the Year in Europe Fiction and a Bronze Medalist in the 2023 Latino Book Awards, this book is is a kaleidoscope of history, politics, arts, tragedy, and humor. In a world echoing the fall of the Berlin Wall and mirroring the rise of leaders inspired by figures like Putin and Trump, the novel transcends conventional genres, offering a unique blend of entertainment and intellectual depth.

The story begins in 1978, in the fictional union of Slavia, where the society is under oppressive communist rule. Citizens like artist Ludwig Kirchner endure harsh conditions in concentration camps, while the ruling elite indulge in luxury and moral decay. The regime's control permeates all aspects of life, utilizing media, arts, and education as tools for propaganda and teaching. This portrayal offers a stark contrast between the suffering populace and the privileged few in power. With the introduction of Perestroika; which literally means restructuring, in 1989, Slavia experiences a momentous shift. The collapse of the old order brings both hope and chaos for the people. Former crime boss Ivan Fiorov seizes the moment to lead the newly formed 'Freedom Party,' ushering in a wave of insecurity reminiscent of the previous dictatorship. The revolution is marked by a complex interplay of revenge, redemption, and the quest for truth.

Cerqueira's narrative structure is notable for its ensemble cast of characters, each providing a unique perspective on the changing landscape of Slavia. President Alfred Ionescu, once an influential leader, finds himself confined in an asylum of his own making. Zut Zdanov, the head of culture, faces the haunting specter of his dark past in an encounter with allegations of child abuse. Helena Yava, fueled by the grief of losing a lover, seeks vengeance by any means possible. Igor Olin, the steward of the economy, battles for the dignity of his disabled son in a world grappling with change. Meanwhile, art historian Silvia Lenka delves into the mysteries of her own parentage. The characters are intricately developed and portray some strong powerful ambitions to exact their means and reflect the multifaceted human responses to political turmoil when it comes to survival in a rapidly transforming society where hope hangs by a thread.

The novel's prose albeit slow is both vivid and unflinching, painting a realistic picture of life under an authoritarian regime and the subsequent tumultuous shift towards a fledgling democracy. The pace balances the heavier themes of politics, tragedy, and desperation well. Cerqueira's attention to detail and historical context enriches the narrative, making the fictional Slavia resonate with authenticity, and holds stark relevance to present times. The themes explored are timely, drawing parallels to contemporary global issues such as the resurgence of populist leaders and neo-nationalist movements worldwide. Clever and timeless, the novel provides a logic and reasoning as to why authoritarian regimes fail and are detrimental to the progress of any country and its people. The book reminded me much of Bulgakov's 'Master & Margarita' where similar shades of chaos, anarchy, and insanity reigns.

'Perestroika' has garnered critical acclaim, winning the 2024 Independent Press Award and the 2023 Historical Fiction Company Book of the Year. These accolades underscore its significance as a work that not only reflects on past events but also offers insights into present-day socio-political dynamics, and emphasizes on how those in power should be mindful of exercising their political powers and its consequences, if led with greed.

In conclusion, 'Perestroika: Eye for an Eye; Tooth for a Tooth' is an eye-opener that cleverly captures a pivotal moment in history through the lens of a fictional yet relatable setting. Cerqueira's storytelling invites readers to reflect on the complexities of political change and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

[Sreenithi Venkataragavan · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is the 1970s and Slavia suffers under a brutal communist regime led by the corrupt Ionescu and his equally self-serving and opportunistic cabinet.

The people are miserable – starved of food and resources in this Era of Stagnation, mistrustful and resentful of one another, and constantly pitted against each other for survival. True acts of selflessness and altruism are rare, and everyone navigates this system guided by fear and self-interest. It is a regime so severe that even a kind and god-fearing priest loses his faith, becoming a murderous shell of his former self after enduring the horrors of the ‘re-education’ camps.

This book may seem straightforward at first – many of us are at least distantly familiar with the communist Soviet era. Western media, particularly in America, has consistently portrayed even the slightest shred of socialism as the very thing we must fight against. The story does unfold in line with this. We see how people are stripped of their humanity, manipulated, exploited, and treated like disposable commodities. We see how even minor criticism or difference in political opinion is enough to warrant a deathly sentence of ‘re-education’ in the camps.

But as the story progresses, the picture begins to evolve into something more complex. It does not matter which side of the political or economic spectrum you are on because everything boils down to power. In Slavia, the anti-capitalistic rhetoric that is pushed down everyone’s throats does not apply to those in power. They get to access and indulge in all the capitalist comforts and pleasures of their so-called enemy. And the common people denounce one another to gain the Party’s favour. Why? So that they may gain some of that access too. Better rations. Better facilities. Better chances at a good life.

Even as the regime is torn down in the wake of reform, as Perestroika takes the Soviet by storm, as we expect the promise of freedom and democracy, we once again see how the system descends into the same pattern of censorship and oppression. The man who takes over the reins of the country is just as charismatic an orator as the communist leaders before him and is just as motivated by self-interest. Perhaps, he emerges as the smartest man in the land, knowing how to play the game and survive. The new leader, Ivan Fiorov, is not the least bit concerned about his people. He is a businessman through and through and just as corrupt and morally depraved as his predecessors.

There are no heroes in this book – everyone is led by self-righteousness and their own visions of ‘freedom’. Their own versions of the truth. Even the characters that manage to gain our full sympathy are consumed by the system. This is a book full of nuance, raw in its detail and brutally impartial to its characters. Despite Slavia being a fictional Eastern Bloc setting, the true realities of the communist era echo through multiple characters, varied in their worldviews, but nevertheless presenting a collective experience of the regime and what came after. Through Perestroika, Cerqueira delves into the deepest, darkest shades of humanity.

But he also provides jarring contrasts of wholesomeness. On the one hand, you have the chilling descriptions of the concentration camps, of gruesome acts committed against humanity, and on the other, the pure love that the corrupt Party members have for their loved ones and the devastation and grief that they experience. This is a book that requires you to turn the pages at a slow and deliberate pace, to sit with it, and let it sink in. It can be an uncomfortable read at times, so taking breaks from it may be better if the grim depictions start to affect you. It truly is a harrowing insight into the sheer perversity of power and the corruption it breeds in those who wield it.

Perestroika is ultimately a book about survival, power, vengeance, and redemption and about everyone caught in between. It is an absolute must read not only as a brilliant piece of historical fiction but also as an essential commentary on today’s world. It is a cautionary tale for the present and the future, reminding us through the vivid portrayal of the past that we must take heed as history threatens to repeat itself again.

[Rose Auburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Slavia, a fictional Eastern Bloc country, whose people are brutally oppressed under a vicious, corrupt communist regime led by the unscrupulous Alfred Ionescu and his venal cabal of enforcers, Perestroika is an extraordinary novel, primarily historical fiction yet thriving on inconvertible fact.

Cerqueira unfolds Slavia’s journey from dictatorship to democracy, beginning in 1978 and ending in 1992 through the eyes and experiences of characters from all walks of life and political persuasions. As the Russian concept of “perestroika” begins to sweep through Slavia in the late 1980s, toppling Ionescu’s reign and promising freedom, there is jubilation in the streets, but will one group of authoritarian psychopaths simply be replaced by another…

Perestroika’s narrative is told through the close third-person perspectives of nearly forty individuals, there is no main protagonist, per se, they are all central facets to Cerqueira’s story. It could be leveled, however, that the painter, Ludwig Kirchner becomes the novel’s touchstone, encapsulating its contrasting ideologies.

Cerqueira has written a tour de force. His prose manages to be both lush and austere, complementing the stark dichotomy present in Slavia’s society and many of his characters.

His words contain a subtle seam of bitter, black humor coupled with some wondrous flights of poetic imagery, often describing the most barbaric and ruthless actions and emotions. Nonetheless, Perestroika is effortlessly readable. On a superficially writerly level, it’s razor-sharp and absorbing. Cerqueira’s dialogue is beautifully calibrated and authentic.

And, in his creation of Slavia, Cerqueira has conjured a compelling blend of history and fiction that never resembles a pastiche. Events, socio-political landscapes, and cultural contexts from several communist countries of the time are skilfully blended with nuance and originality.

Notwithstanding, Perestroika is a character-driven novel that exposes the best and worst of the human condition. In the beginning, each chapter is effectively a short story or vignette devoted to a different character, and each character is connected, not always directly.

Layer by layer, Cerqueira builds up these deeply complex, flawed individuals, all very different often with competing or opposing desires and motivations that, in a number of cases, eventually find commonality.

As the novel progresses into the second half, justice is meted out so that each character receives the redemption or retribution they richly deserve, often dosed with a touch of the biblical or allegorical. Even those with decency and integrity possess demons and aspects of damage.

Indeed, a proportion of the cast are morally bankrupt, soulless degenerates who find an outlet for their vile behavior in Slavia’s totalitarian state. Zut Zdanhov, the People’s Commissar for Culture and Propaganda, possibly takes first prize but he has stiff competition.

However, Cerqueira makes these people human, not merely one-dimensional villains, even archfiend Ivan “Koba” Fiorov, and sometimes lends them unexpected impulses and brief flickers of compassion. The chapters toward the end dealing with Schwartz, Olin, and Ionescu’s reckonings are exquisitely painful pieces of writing laced with pathos.

The novel is in two parts, the first has a brutalist, dystopian air and a Kafkaesque gloss of looping despair as befits living under the regime. The second part begins with an atmosphere of emancipated optimism but, as the Utopian dream of perestroika begins to curdle, frantic claustrophobia creeps in, the scenes of writhing despair set in Drugville evoke the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch.

Aside from the satirical commentary and metaphorical motifs, Perestroika ostensibly offers a brilliant reflection on this period of history, living under a communist regime and in the aftermath of it being overthrown. Undoubtedly, however, the narrative is heavily inflected by the anxieties and politics of the present.

Perestroika is a sprawling, complex, and compelling masterpiece that bears the hallmark of being Cerqueira’s Magnum Opus. Highly recommended.

[Garry Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perestroika is an ambitious novel that has no comparison with other political novels. In fact, it is unique in Portuguese, and even European, letters. Perhaps the authors who have most in common with João Cerqueira are George Orwell and Michel Houllebecq, as he shares with them their dystopian vision, brutal frankness, and black humor. However, Cerqueira differs from them in several respects: first, because there is no single protagonist in the novel of the Portuguese author, but many, and nor is there a single plot, but several, of equal importance. And the multiple stories are woven into a tapestry as complex as a Persian rug. The architecture of the novel is impressive. Only a master storyteller can juggle so many characters and so many fates at the same time.

The story takes place in a fictional Central European country called Slavia. The first half of the novel depicts life there under the dictatorship of Alfred Ionescu; it is a barbaric and corrupt communist regime. The second half portrays the same country, and the same characters—at least, those who manage to survive—after Perestroika, and the democratic revolution that overthrows the regime. Cerqueira avoids the easy solution of portraying the new leaders as saints and heroes. In fact, one of the main virtues of Perestroika, and indeed of Cerqueira's fiction in general, is that it recognizes the complexity of everyone—the human side of some Commissars, for example, who genuinely love their relatives, or in one case, the Minister for Education, who accuses another minister, Zut Zdhanhov, of paedophilia and other crimes, despite the extreme danger to herself. And the good ones also turn out often to have a sinister side. One of the members of the Resistance decides to destroy a factory in an act of terrorism, knowing that innocent people may die, and Silvia, an art student, and perhaps the most sympathetic character in the novel, is the mistress of the old and almost impotent Ionescu, because as such she enjoys great personal advantages. There are some heroes who never compromise, but their fate is not a happy one. The author writes with humor, because he is not able to write without humor – and perhaps the truth would be unbearable without humor, as the people of the Warsaw Pact learned—and yet the book is not a comedy, but a tragicomedy, an unusual genre, because it is very difficult to do well.

Perestroika is not a roman à clef: Slavia is not Russia, although it has a kleptocracy after Perestroika, as happened in that country. Nor is it Romania, even though it is a poor and small country with cruel orphanages. It seems that Slavia fulfils the role of a mythical country, and the novel is a modern myth, a fable that speaks to us of the essential nature of freedom. Obviously, there is no freedom under any dictatorship, whether from the Left or the Right. But there is also no freedom under an ostensibly democratic government if that government is corrupt and criminal. After all, like Dostoyevsky and Tolstoy and all serious and wise novelists, Cerqueira affirms that there is no freedom without responsibility and integrity. He asks if we have the courage to take responsibility for our lives. Or do we want to take the easy route, play the role of victim, constantly whining about the cruelty of others?

This is a moving novel, but sometimes difficult to read, because it forces us to face the barbarity within human beings, even the better ones. But it is worth reading. I, as the translator of the novel (into English) spent many months in the constant company of the characters in the novel, many of whom I feel were acquaintances of mine in real life—and living with the book has enriched me, beyond doubt. So don't miss this author's masterpiece!

[Star · Rating 4 out of 5]

** 4 stars **

Perestroika is a historical fiction novel, cleverly depicted in an imaginary setting with fictional characters and whereby revolutionary forces were incited by a metaphorical editorial depicting an imaginary setting. In short, Perestroika is a multi-layered satire; dark, brooding and brutal.

"We’re beneath Ceausescu’s Romania and Hoxha’s Albania"

Set in Slavia, the most miserable country in the Eastern Bloc, the story took the reader on a journey from Oppression to Resistance and to ultimate Freedom.
The story began in the years of dictatorship, when the regime controlled everything from the economy, the law, the media, distribution of resources and education. Religion was banned, food was rationed, censorship was the means of control, along with labour camps for re-education of dissidents.

Everything changed in 1989 when Gorbachev initiated Perestroika and Glasnost in the Soviet Union. Suddenly Slavia's economy took an about turn to open to private initiative & foreign investments. The former ideology became outdated, and with subsidies and limits on production abolished, and the bureaucracy eliminated, the indoctrinated value system came into question. Those in power toppled and a new 'democratic' regime formed.

Unfortunately the more things changed, the more things stayed the same.

Perestroika is a cleverly written & thought-provoking melange of fiction and realism. Real-life historic events were interwoven into the story-telling which makes the book alarmingly poignant & depressingly pertinent. It offered its readers an insight into Communism and irrelevantly suggested that the ideology is not diagonally opposed from Democracy.

"And everyone had the means to take advantage of this horn of plenty. It looked as though in Austria, and doubtless other capitalist countries, any citizen could enjoy the luxuries available only to a People’s Commissar in Slavia. It seemed to him now as if capitalism put into practice the egalitarian principle of communism, while communism worked like capitalism but only for the ruling class."

Thanks to Pigeonhole Book Club and to the author for giving me the opportunity to read the book.

[Kiran K Adharapuram · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perestroika - An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth by Joao 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 troubles.

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 enjoy 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, tragedy with a tinge of humor.

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.

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 worth diving into.

[A Look Inside: Reviews and Interviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Perestroika" by João Cerqueira is a gripping historical fiction novel that delves deep into the tumultuous era of late Communism, offering readers a thrilling and insightful glimpse into the complexities of power, corruption, and revolution.

Set against the backdrop of Slavia in 1978, the novel introduces us to a diverse cast of characters, from the struggling artist Ludwig Kirchner to the terrifying elites of the regime who revel in luxury and moral depravity. As the story unfolds, we witness the harsh realities of life in concentration camps and the stark divide between the haves and the have-nots in a society plagued by oppression and injustice.

But it's in the year 1989, with the onset of Perestroika, that the true essence of the novel comes to light. In the midst of revolutionary turmoil, former crime boss Ivan Fiorov emerges as a formidable leader, spearheading the newly formed 'Freedom Party' and ushering in a wave of insecurity that echoes the oppression of the past dictatorship.

Through themes of revenge, redemption, and catharsis, "Perestroika" paints a vivid portrait of a society on the brink of transformation. Cerqueira skillfully weaves together historical events with fictional narrative, offering readers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of recent European history.

What makes "Perestroika" particularly resonant is its relevance to the present day. As Putin's invasion of Ukraine looms large and populist leaders and neo-Nazi movements gain traction across the globe, the novel serves as both a reflection of the past and a stark warning for the future. In this sense, "Perestroika" transcends its historical setting to become a powerful commentary on contemporary politics and society.

Fans of historical and political fiction will find much to admire in "Perestroika." With its gripping plot, richly drawn characters, and timely themes, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers, challenging them to confront the complexities of power and ideology in a world marked by upheaval and uncertainty.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm late in reviewing Perestroika because it's a novel that requires careful attention. It's historical fiction, based in the invented nation of Slavia which is a stand-in for several (too many) former Soviet Bloc countries. It's a portrait of a small country caught up in the changes that happened in Europe during the Gorbachev era, and the echoes of what is still changing.

The use of a fictional country allows author Cerqueira to blend real history with created history. Events feel plausible because they're inspired by truth, though the names have been changed and serial numbers filed off.

Subtitled "Eye for an eye; tooth for a tooth" the core of the story is about dynamic characters who are each facing their own challenges. Those which I was particularly interested in are former President Ionescu, a man who longer has the power or control he once did; Helena, who is responsible for education and is the ray of goodness and hope in an otherwise bleak landscape, and Olin, a dedicated father trying to give his disabled son a decent life.

Author Cerqueira has given us a story set in somewhat heightened-reality versions of the two time periods where it takes place: 1978, where we first learn of Slavia and the communist regime in power, and 1989, when Glasnost has become common. What makes it really compelling is the vivid, almost cinematic, description the author has provided. You don't just read this novel, you experience it.

If you're a fan of hardcore, sometimes brutal, historical fiction, or are interested in the politics of equality and human rights, this book is perfect for you. It's the perfect combination of tragedy and hope, politics and art, truth and imagination.

Goes well with: potato-leek soup and hard cider.

[Carlos Cerqueira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perestroika is a greatl blend of satire and profound contemplation on the intricacies of human nature, skillfully demonstrating that heroes and villains are not always black and white. The author delves deep into the complexities of human behavior, showing how individuals often labeled as villains can exhibit heroic and heartfelt traits, while those perceived as heroes might harbor darker aspects. The depth and complexity of the characters add a rich layer to the narrative, making it the plot compelling story that make us laugh and think at the same time. Set against a political backdrop, the book serves as a brilliant reflection on political dynamics and their impact on human actions. It exposes the nuanced reality of political systems and how they mold societal norms and individual beliefs, presenting a narrative that is as enlightening as it is entertaining.

What truly sets Perestroika apart is its ability to weave humor with poignant moments, creating a reading experience that is both enjoyable and emotionally resonant. The author's wit shines through the pages, ensuring that the narrative remains engaging and relatable. The recent accolade of Winner of the 2023 Historical Fiction Company Book is a testament to the book's quality and impact. This book is highly recommended for anyone seeking a story that is thought-provoking, humorous, and deeply moving.

[Amanda Taft · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Perestroika is a historical fiction novel that provides thrilling insights into the late Communist era. The book opens in 1978 and introducescitizens 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 changes 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 for the past.”

I read this book on the Pigeonhole app, one stave per day over 11 days, commenting along with other readers. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, my first ever novel on this subject. It’s hard to imagine living through such brutally hard times and even when ‘democracy’ arrived it was really much of the same. I loved the author’s writing style which reminded me of Ken Follett’s with its many characters and interlacing storylines.

[Emily Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

João Cerqueira’s Perestroika is a gripping dive into the turbulent final days of a fictional Communist regime, blending historical weight with a pulse-pounding narrative that feels eerily relevant today. Winner of multiple prestigious awards, including the 2024 Independent Press Awards, this novel masterfully captures the moral decay of Slavia’s elite and the desperate struggles of its oppressed citizens. Cerqueira’s sharp prose and vivid characters pull you into a world of betrayal, rebellion, and redemption, making it impossible to look away.

My favorite scene comes early in the book, where artist Ludwig Kirchner, confined in a brutal concentration camp, uses his art as a quiet act of defiance, sketching forbidden truths under the watchful eyes of guards. It’s a haunting moment that showcases the resilience of the human spirit against crushing oppression.

If you’re drawn to historical fiction that mirrors today’s political unrest, Perestroika is a must-read. Grab your copy now and uncover the secrets of Slavia’s revolution!

[Dorcas Martins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perestroika by João Cerqueira is a tour de force of historical fiction, weaving a chilling yet captivating tale of Slavia’s collapse during the late Communist era. With accolades like the 2023 Historical Fiction Company Book of the Year, this novel delivers a raw, unflinching look at power, corruption, and the fragile hope of revolution. Cerqueira’s storytelling is both thrilling and thought-provoking, drawing parallels to modern-day populist upheavals and conflicts like the war in Ukraine, making it a timely masterpiece.

I was particularly struck by the electrifying scene in 1989, where Ivan Fiorov, the cunning ex-crime boss, seizes control of the chaotic ‘Freedom Party’ rally, his charisma and menace clashing as he manipulates the crowd. It’s a riveting glimpse into the dangerous allure of new leadership in turbulent times.

For readers who crave stories that challenge and thrill, Perestroika is an unforgettable journey. Don’t wait dive into this award-winning epic today!

[Masha M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a timely and ambitious work of historical fiction that uses the canvas of an imaginary Eastern European country, Slavia, to explore the profound political and moral upheavals of the late 20th century. The novel follows a sprawling narrative of revenge, redemption, and catharsis inspired by the collapse of communism and the turbulent birth of a new world order.

The story centers on a compelling protagonist, Lia Kirchner, whose personal journey mirrors the convulsions of her nation. The narrative builds toward the fall of the Berlin Wall and the rise of a new president, Ivan Fiorov—a character shrewdly modeled on the political personas of both Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. This bold creative choice makes the novel resonate powerfully with contemporary discussions about authoritarianism, populism, and the fragility of democracy. It was incredible, loved the storyline and plot. I enjoyed reading it.

[Casey Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perestroika, eye for an eye; tooth for a tooth, is a striking work of historical literary fiction, a fable-like political satire.
Cerqueira paints a vivid, if terrifying picture of a brutal regime and the characters who struggle against it are drawn with great pathos. He manages to render even the most odious, self-serving among them as vulnerable, human. The author expertly weaves each narrative into a tense fabric of despair and asks, finally, if there is any redemption in revenge or is true forgiveness the only way to peace, both for individuals and a nation.
A surprise plot twist ties each of the separate, yet intersecting lives of the main characters together in a beautifully poetic way. Readers of political intrigues and Cold War dramas will enjoy this.

[Ambica Gulati · Rating 4 out of 5]

A complex novel portraying the many layers of a nation, Perestroika: An Eye for an Eye, a Tooth for a Tooth is a reflection of the events that have shaped the world in the 20th and 21st centuries.Pelf, power and privileges are fickle mistresses, puppets in the hands of manipulators. The themes of ego, greed, power, death of values dominate the end as well.

Overall, the book reminds one of the epochs in which there was suppression of the proletariat and the bourgeoisie encashed on the opportunity to create wealth and take hold of matters of governance. It is a slow read, a book that will propel you to think about the many layers in the world around you, irrespective of boundaries.

[Daniel C.]

Perestroika surprised me with how immediate and relevant it feels. Even though the story is set in a fictional country, the emotional truth hits hard. Cerqueira shows how easily a society can shift from dictatorship to “freedom” while keeping the same machinery of fear underneath. Ludwig’s suffering in the camps stayed with me, and Ivan Fiorov is the kind of villain you don’t forget because you’ve seen echoes of him in real life. With everything happening in Europe today, this book feels like both a warning and a reflection. Brilliantly written and painfully timely.

[Ofelia Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

What struck me most was how human the characters feel. Ludwig, in particular, is written with such tenderness that I found myself rereading some passages just to appreciate the emotional depth. The story moves from suffering to chaos to uneasy rebirth, but every chapter feels grounded in real historical energy. Cerqueira doesn’t glorify revolution he exposes its cracks. The ending left me staring at the wall for a long time. This is easily one of the most powerful novels I’ve read about the collapse of authoritarianism.

[Delbert Potts · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first chapter, I could tell this book was going to be something special. The atmosphere is dark but addictive, and the writing has that cinematic quality where you can almost see the cold streets, the propaganda posters, the tension building before the revolution. What I loved most is how Cerqueira refuses to pretend there are simple heroes or villains. Everyone is complicated, wounded, or corrupted by the system they live in. The story feels both historical and painfully current. Easily a 5-star read.

[Paula Barros · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perestroika is a unique historical fiction book that captivates the reader from the first to the last page.
Beyond the political issue, it is a story about human nature and the passions that lead men and women to heroic acts or villainy.
The humor surprises and mitigates the most intense moments of the novel.
In the end, there is an unexpected twist that only great novelists can put into their works.

[Pheadra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this through my online bookclub, Pigeonhole and even though it was broken into eleven staves, I found it very long.
The story is set in Communist Slavia under President Ionescu and crosses to the time of Perestroika which is the rebuilding of an ideal state. Told from and about different characters points of view and experiences it deals primarily with change and how people cope with it.
4 stars

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in the fictional country of Slavia, Perestroika is the story of that country's struggle to escape the iron fist of Communism. This mirrors what was happening in Eastern Europe in Russia, Poland etc and details the real struggles citizens had trying to overthrow the regimes that had been in charge for many years. This was a long and sometimes brutal read but also very interesting and informative.

[David Savage · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic thrilling read that you won’t be able to put down. An excellent plot with fantastic characters. It explores the themes of struggle and power through the eyes of some very different characters, making a highly thought-provoking, entertaining and extremely enjoyable read. And it might leave you questioning “What is truth” and “Are we really free?”

You can read my full review at https://www.whatsgoodtoread.co.uk/per...

[Sonia Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of historical novel that doesn’t just tell a story it drags you straight into it. I loved how Cerqueira captures the bleakness of life under oppressive regimes, yet balances it with moments of hope and resilience. The transition from communism to an unstable “freedom” was one of the most compelling parts; it shows how revolutions don’t magically create better people. The writing is sharp, the pacing tight, and the political commentary hits like a punch. Truly unforgettable.

[Vincent Combs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The world-building in this novel is phenomenal. Even though Slavia is fictional, everything feels authentic: the fear in people’s voices, the propaganda, the quiet acts of rebellion. Ludwig’s journey broke my heart, and the chaotic shift in 1989 felt almost cinematic. I appreciated how Cerqueira doesn’t romanticize revolutions he captures both the exhilaration and the danger. A beautifully written, sobering story.

[Elma Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book felt like I was walking through a museum of memories except the memories were alive, messy, and full of contradictions. The writing flows easily, even when the subject matter is heavy. Ivan Fiorov’s rise is especially chilling because we’ve seen similar figures appear in real life. This book is both a history lesson and a psychological study, and it left a strong impression on me.

[Willian Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went in expecting a political drama, but what I got was a story full of heart, conflict, and uncomfortable truths. The book moves through despair, hope, and chaos with a natural rhythm, and the characters feel like people you might meet in real life. The final chapters especially filled me with a strange mix of sadness and admiration. This is the kind of novel that stays with you long after you finish it.