Ghost Story

Russian investigator Arkady Renko has hunted for many mysterious figures since appearing in the 1982 novel Gorky Park, but none as elusive as the title character in his latest adventure, Stalin's Ghost. In the beginning, author Martin Cruz Smith plays reports about subway riders spotting the long-dead dictator for black comedy. But the spirit of Old Joe takes on an unexpectedly haunting presence as the plot develops into an investigation of mass killings colored by history both shared and personal. At times the dialogue seems more hard-boiled L.A. than deep-seated Moscow, but it's so ripe and entertaining that few fans of the genre will complain. With Smith working at his usual high level, tedium doesn't stand a ghost of a chance.

Related Content

• West Coast travelogue part two: Night of Joy, Lust-Cats of the Gutters and Sara Century come home
  May 9, 2011
• Video: Cirque du Soleil Dralion juggler visits Westword
  January 23, 2012
• New Year's Eve 2011 Denver: ten best nightlife events
  December 16, 2011
• Jonathan Greschler was notoriously shy...until he became a bartender
  January 27, 2012
• Denver's ten best vegetarian dishes in non-vegetarian restaurants
  March 29, 2012

More About

• Martin Cruz Smith
• Arkady Renko
• Moscow
• Transportation
• Public Transportation

Like this Story?

Sign up for the Events Newsletter: What's happening in town? From underground club nights to the biggest outdoor festivals, our top picks for the week's best events will always keep you in on the action.

Privacy Policy Cancel Continue

Smith will read from and sign his latest starting tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Tattered Cover Highlands Ranch, 9315 Dorchester Street; admission is free. Call 303-470-7050 or go to www.tatteredcover.com for details.