RED SNOW

by Edward Topol ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 1, 1987

Chronicling a manhunt in Siberia, Russian ÉmigrÉ Topol here outshines his previous work (Red Square, Submarine U-137) to deliver a memorable thriller whose sometimes awkward plot mechanics are redeemed by an authorial compassion that elevates a rich cast of characters into vivid embodiments of human fraility, courage, and hope. Most fetching of Topol's heroes (this unusual tale's only villain is the Soviet state itself) is Lt. Anna Kovina, a feisty cop who recounts much of the story in a charming blend of tough, talk and naivetÉ. As the novel opens during a blizzard raging on the Siberian outpost of Urengoi, Anna is handed the case of a lifetime: to hunt down three cons escaped from a labor camp and presumed responsible for the mutilation-killings of scientists attached to a major Soviet. European oil pipeline. But what begins as mystery is soon transformed into myth: indigenous Eskimos see the murders as the work of ""tundra spirits"" rising up to destroy their Russian occupiers, and begin to rebel openly. So far, so good; now, however, Topol jarringly switches into third person in order to depict events beyond Anna's ken--in part, squabbles among Kremlin leaders responding to the uprising (Gorbachev and Andropov appear in routine cameos); mostly, the escapades of an American backer of the pipeline, mercenary yet humane, whose clumsily inserted subplot permits inclusion of an unnecessary orgy scene, and, more forgivably, a moving exploration of native culture as he links up with an old Eskimo in order to reach Urengoi. Then it's back into Anna's enchanting mind as she relates the final full fury of the manhunt and the revolt: in a powerful scene, she's gang-raped by a horde of Eskimo kids, then saved by an Eskimo cop who, at the explosive, gratifying end, turns out to be the linchpin of the rebellion--and a key to Anna's future. Never mind the aggravating plot lumps; with its fine Siberian setting and that wonderful Anna, this is an enthralling tale.

Pub Date: Sept. 1, 1987

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Dutton

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1987

Categories: FICTION