Vicki S. (curledupwithabook) - , reviewed on 7/31/2014 + 169 more book reviews

Best book I've read this year, so far. Usually, I like a book to get right to the action and have little patience with authors that take their time setting the scene. TR Smith is such a good writer that he quickly draws you into, first, the back story, then the present day with all of its complexities and atrocities. The latter is so interesting that you don't even realize that half the book has been read before the focus turns to the child murders. Truly a story within a story!

The setting is post-revolutionary Russia just before and after Stalin's death. The protagonist, Leo Demidov, is a war hero turned security officer working for the state. He believes to his core in the righteousness of the laws, but is somewhat troubled by the ruthlessness and zeal with which they are enforced. Smith provides a chilling description of life during this time which was really no life at all when you consider the constant fear of being arrested for absolutely nothing.

It is in this surreal world, and after some personal tragedy and hardship, that our hero realizes that a serial killer is in their midst and dedicates himself to hunting down this creature and killing him. Because the existence of a serial killer would contradict the government's portrayal of their state as "crime-free", Leo risks his and his wife's lives by insisting that the killer exists and in pursuing his illegal investigation.

The tension builds and the atrocities against Leo and his wife (and those who assist them) continue until you simply can't put the book down. Very satisfying ending with a twist. You will NOT be disappointed in this book. Can't wait to read his second book!

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