Mafia State

by Luke Harding
Mafia State cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Investigative Journalism
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  • ID: 2893
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780852652480
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2011-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Mafia State is a gripping investigative journey into the heart of Russia's power structures, revealing the alarming connections between the Kremlin and organized crime. Award-winning journalist Luke Harding exposes the shadowy world of corruption, violence, and political manipulation that defines contemporary Russia. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, Harding paints a chilling portrait of a nation where the lines between government and criminal enterprises are blurred. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the true nature of power in Russia today.

Reviews
In Moscow's Shadows · 2012-05-31
insightful 3.75

The title encapsulates Harding's personal struggles and the dangerous caricature of the 'mafia state'. The review notes the book's emphasis on Harding's travails and the broader implications of state-sponsored harassment.

The blog review of Mafia State on In Moscow's Shadows highlights the personal and professional challenges faced by Luke Harding during his time in Moscow. The reviewer notes that the title itself is indicative of the book's focus on Harding's experiences and the broader issue of state-sponsored harassment. The review acknowledges the book's ability to shed light on the insidious methods used by the Russian state to silence dissent. While the reviewer appreciates the personal narrative, they also point out that the book's title might oversimplify the complex political landscape.

Quick quotes

    In some ways, the title says it all, with its emphasis on Harding's personal travails and this handy but dangerous 'mafia state' caricature.

    The book offers a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to report the truth in oppressive regimes.

    Harding's account is a chilling reminder of the lengths to which the Russian state will go to silence dissent.

The Guardian · 2011-10-21
chilling 4.00

The account vividly portrays the lawlessness and power dynamics in Moscow, offering a chilling insight into the journalist's experiences. It highlights the personal and professional challenges of reporting in such an environment.

The Guardian's review of Mafia State delves into the harrowing experiences of Luke Harding as he navigates the treacherous landscape of Moscow. The review emphasizes the sense of lawlessness and the lack of accountability among the powerful, creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere. Harding's firsthand account provides a unique perspective on the dangers and complexities of journalism in a repressive state. The reviewer appreciates the raw and unfiltered portrayal of these events, making it a compelling read for those interested in contemporary journalism and political intrigue.

Quick quotes

    Harding conveys how it feels to live in a place where the powerful are subject to few or no rules, and where there is no one to complain to.

    This is a chilling account of a journalist's struggle against a system that seeks to silence dissent.

    The book offers a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to report the truth in oppressive regimes.

The Bookbag · George Care · 1970-01-01
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer praises the book as a brilliant and haunting account of the insidious methods used by the Russian state. They highlight the personal and professional challenges faced by Harding.

The Bookbag's review of Mafia State by George Care commends Luke Harding's vivid and haunting portrayal of his experiences in Moscow. Care appreciates the book's ability to convey the personal and professional challenges faced by Harding, as well as the broader implications of state-sponsored harassment. The reviewer finds the account both compelling and chilling, highlighting the insidious methods used by the Russian state to silence dissent. Care also notes the book's relevance to contemporary discussions about journalism and political repression.

Quick quotes

    Mafia State is a brilliant and haunting account of the insidious methods used by a resurgent Kremlin.

    Harding's personal narrative is both compelling and chilling, offering a unique perspective on the dangers of journalism in oppressive regimes.

    The book is a stark reminder of the lengths to which the Russian state will go to silence dissent.

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