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The plain simplicity of Smith's prose drives the narrative relentlessly forward. As Leo pursues the killer, pursued himself by Vasili, the novel works perfectly as a tightly-plotted thriller. But it also works on a different level, with its examination of a totalitarian society and its effect on human relationships, and I for one am not surprised that this book was a contender for both the Booker and Costa prizes.
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|name=Liz Goodwill
|verb= said
|comment=Maybe this is an "old" book, but as its recently been put into film format, it has only just come to my attention. The synopsis is a little baffling, not really designed to encourage the reader, to read what is in effect an exceptionally well written book. The descriptions of soviet life, from housing, to clothes to social standing are exceptional, but not "patronising" in the belief than non russians wouldnt understand. The plot, based on one of russia's most infamous murderers, is expertly woven into the main characters lives., into peoples conception of Russia in that era. Whilst the first few chapters seem a little "bogged" down , with rhetoric, there is something about this book, that then "grabs" you and leaves you with not wanting to put down until finished!. I thoroughly enjoyed it, gasped, shed a few tears, and as a consequence, bought the follow up books, and a "stand alone" novel by the same author.
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[[Category:Thrillers]]
