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...

By Michael Roberts

June 21, 2007

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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.

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.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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