by Tom Rob Smith. The nine members were Marsha, Madeleine,
Sarah, Kathy, Nancy, Betsy, Donna, Janet and Nettie. Everyone
had read the book and all liked it for diferent reasons. Some
liked the mystery and suspense and the quick moving thriller like
action similar to most James Bond movies. Some liked learing about
the Stalin era which was a very grim time when people were starving
and the government controlled everyone. Trust was uncommon and brother
would betray brother for food or a better apartment or easier jobs.
Leo Demidov is the disgraced KBG agent who goes against the
government and investigates a series of gruesome murders because
he believes in justice. It is based on a Ukranian serial killer
Andrei Chikatilo who existed.
It also explores the Soviet Union's stance on crime "which did
not exist" in a totalitarian state. It also touches on the paranoia
which existed in the Soviet Union, as well as their attitude
towards homosexuality, orphanages and mental hospitals.
There is a big twist in the story as the killer turns out to be Leo's
younger brother Andrei.
Marsha used a study guide to pose many questions and I felt we
had a very thorough and orderly discussion. We learned that
a movie is in the making which we anxiously await.
Marsha has read the other two books in the trilogy and although she
likes "Child 44" best, she recommends the others and says there
is a continuity in the stories.
Julie chose a book in absentia and it is a story of a woman who
hits her head in the gym and has amnesia regarding the
last 10 years of life.
The book is "What Alice Forgot", by Liane Moriarty. We chose
January 9th to be the next meeting.
A reminder will be sent with Venue information.
