ŷ������

Originally posted on The Book Nympho

The story is set in 1953 Russia, shortly before the end of Joseph Stalin's reign of terror. There's evidence of a possible serial killer at large but one of the propaganda "truths" is that Russia is crime free. Leo Demidov, a member of the powerful and feared MGB (predecessor of the KGB), is sent to investigate one of the murders but is instructed to classify it as an accident. It sets off a chain of events that will forever change the man and his life.

I was mesmerized by this story as it offered a glimpse into an era I knew little about but is important as it provides insight into the probable foundation of current Russian culture. Part mystery and part historical fiction, the storytelling aspect is outstanding. While Leo is the main character and most everything is seen through his point of view, that view transforms as everything he's believed in and been a part of begins to unravel as it turns on him. To challenge any of the government positions often means certain death so Leo's change doesn't happen without consequence.

The setting represents one of the most important in world history where millions of the so-called "enemies of the Soviet people" were imprisoned, exiled or executed. I've known the facts of the era but this story provided more clarity of how a system designed to provide social and economic equality could go so horribly awry. Leo is at times unsympathetic and at others heroic. The story has an emotional punch I hadn't expected and the narrator just nails everything. I highly recommend listening to this book as it contributes to its authentic sense. 4.5 stars