Now out: Independence Square

It is hard to believe that Independence Square is the 10th Arkady Renko novel. Faithful (and new) readers of the series will enjoy this title that Publishers Weekly has given a well deserved star review. It is described by the publication as “stellar;” what more could a reader hope for?

Given the current state of the world, it is interesting to read a book that is set in Ukraine and to be there with Arkady. He is a good companion.

When the story opens, Arkady is, I think, a bit bored. Finally, something interesting comes along when he is asked to locate musician Karina. She is the daughter of a body builder who is a man doing some unsavory work. Karina, herself, is anti-Putin; what could be more dangerous?

The case takes Arkady to the Crimea and Ukraine. What will he find there? Will Karina be alive? And, how will Arkady cope as he faces a medical diagnosis? Oh, and some complications in his relationship too.

Note that Smith has been writing about Russia for quite a while. He knows whereof he speaks. He also has intimate knowledge of Arkady’s medical condition and writes movingly about this.

Those who enjoy spy fiction, good writing and good stories will want to pick up this title. Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for this title. All opinions are my own.