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Detective Arkaday Renko—“one of the most compelling figures in modern fiction” (USA TODAY)—risks his life when he heads to Ukraine shortly before the Russian invasion to find an anti-Putin activist who has mysteriously disappeared.Martin Cruz Smith has written nine previous novels featuring Arkady Renko, one of modern detective fictions most popular characters. These novels, beginning with 1981s international sensation Gorky Park, have collectively traced Russia's evolution over the last half-century. Now, with Independence Square, Smith focuses on the fraught and frenzied days leading up to Vladimir Putins war against Ukraine. Its June 2021, and Arkady knows that Russia is preparing to invade and subsequently annex Ukraine as it did Crimea in 2014. He is, however, preoccupied with other grievances. His longtime lover, Tatiana Petrovna, has deserted him for her work as an investigative reporter. His corrupt boss has relegated him to a desk job. And he is having trouble with his dexterity and balance. A visit to his doctor reveals that these are symptoms for Parkinsons Disease. This is an ingenious autobiographical conceit, as Martin Cruz Smith has Parkinsons, and is able through Arkady to movingly describe his own experience with the disease. Parkinsons hasnt stopped Smith from his work, and neither does it stop Arkady. Rather than dwell on his diagnosis, he throws himself into another case. An acquaintance has asked him to find his daughter, Karina, an anti-Putin activist who has disappeared. In the course of the investigation, Arkady falls for Karina's roommate, Elena, a Tatar from Ukraine. The search leads them to Kyiv, where rumblings of an armed conflict grow louder. Later, in Crimea, Tatiana reemerges to complicate Arkadys new romance. And as he gets closer to locating Karina, Arkady discovers something that threatens his life as well as the lives of both Elena and Tatiana. Few fiction writers have better captured contemporary Russia with more insight or authenticity than Martin Cruz Smith. He does the same here for Ukraine and the events that preceded Russias invasion. Independence Square is a timely and a uniquely personal mystery novel-meets-political thriller by a master of the form.

Embark on a captivating journey to the heart of Ukraine with Martin Cruz Smith's "Independence Square: Arkady Renko in Ukraine". Immerse yourself in a gripping narrative that blends political intrigue, cultural exploration, and personal struggles set against the backdrop of Kyiv's iconic Independence Square.

Accompany Arkady Renko, a disillusioned Russian investigator, as he delves into the complex world of Ukrainian politics and corruption. Witness his encounters with enigmatic characters, from a cunning oligarch to a resourceful journalist, as he navigates a treacherous landscape of deceit and danger.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Ukraine through Smith's vivid descriptions of Kyiv's historical landmarks, bustling markets, and the resilience of its people. Discover the intricacies of Ukrainian history and culture as Renko unravels a web of secrets that span decades and continents.

"Independence Square" is not merely a political thriller but a profound exploration of the human condition. Smith delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the search for truth amidst a rapidly changing political landscape. Renko's personal journey mirrors the struggles of a nation in transition, grappling with its past and striving for a brighter future.

Prepare to be captivated by Smith's masterful storytelling and his ability to transport readers into the heart of Ukraine's political turmoil. "Independence Square" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that will leave a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.