Alice B. reviewed on + 3558 more book reviews
This is an excellently written book with an unusual plot involving terrorists and a deadly chemical combination that is fatal within 90 seconds. A wealthy former jockey with royal connections is sent to Russia to investigate the possibility of a scandal involving a potential member of the British riding team for an upcoming Moscow Olympics, and uncovers the terrorist plot at great risk to his own life. The author demonstrates a thorough understanding of the pervasive fear that shadows Soviet life under Communism, and of the rigid bureaucracy that controls the details of daily life. Soviet citizens find it necessary to adopt a blank, emotionless facade in order to hide their inmost thoughts, for even an escape of the smallest rebellion could be disastrous. And always, people ready to expose the slightest deviation from the ordinary are watching and listening. Against this background, the young investigator pursues the truth, having to carefully balance protecting those who are helping him with discovering the identity of the elusive "Alyosha." This book is highly recommended.
