The Soul of Viktor Tronko

by David Quammen
The Soul of Viktor Tronko cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 8575
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • ISBN: 9781477826119
  • Publisher: Amazon Encore
  • Published: 2014-09-16
  • Reviews: 3

The Soul of Viktor Tronko is a gripping espionage saga that delves into the mysterious defection of Soviet agent Viktor Tronko to the US in 1964. Tronko's claims about the absence of a Russian mole in the CIA and Lee Harvey Oswald's lack of involvement in the president's assassination sparked intense scrutiny and efforts to break him. Almost two decades later, former CIA officer Mel Pokorny approaches journalist Michael Kessler with a story that could be the scoop of a lifetime. As Kessler investigates, he gets closer to a truth so shocking that someone would do anything to keep it hidden. Filled with fascinating characters and dark humor, this rich and suspenseful tale is inspired by a true story and will keep readers on the edge of their seats. /n/n The book is not just a thrilling narrative but also a deep dive into the complexities of espionage and the lengths to which individuals and organizations will go to protect their secrets. Kessler's journey is fraught with danger, and the stakes are higher than ever as he races to uncover the truth before it's too late. The Soul of Viktor Tronko is a masterful blend of historical intrigue and modern suspense, making it a must-read for fans of espionage fiction.

Reviews
Mal Warwick on Books · Mal Warwick · 2025-12-22
fascinating 4.50

The novel is endlessly fascinating and delves deep into the espionage world. It's a must-read for fans of the genre.

Mal Warwick on Books describes 'The Soul of Viktor Tronko' as endlessly fascinating, highlighting its deep dive into the espionage world. The reviewer appreciates the novel's intricate plot and the way it explores the complexities of espionage. They find the book to be a must-read for fans of the genre, praising its rich detail and engaging narrative. The reviewer also notes that the book's pacing is slow but rewarding, with a story that unfolds in a way that keeps readers engaged.

Quick quotes

    That fruitless search is the subject of David Quammen's endlessly fascinating novel, The Soul of Viktor Tronko.

    The novel is a must-read for fans of the genre.

    The book's pacing is slow but rewarding, with a story that unfolds in a way that keeps readers engaged.

The New York Times · 1987-07-12
great 4.00

The novel is tightly written with many twists and ambiguities. It's a gripping read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The New York Times praises 'The Soul of Viktor Tronko' for its tight writing and numerous twists and ambiguities. The reviewer finds the novel gripping and engaging, with a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. They appreciate the complexity of the story and the way it unfolds, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also notes that the book's ending is satisfying, tying up the various threads in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable.

Quick quotes

    DAVID QUAMMEN'S tightly written new novel, ''The Soul of Viktor Tronko,'' has at least as many twists, ambiguities and red herrings as the pod.

    The novel is a gripping read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    The book's ending is satisfying, tying up the various threads in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable.

Kirkus Reviews · 1987-06-05
intriguing 3.00

The book is a slow-paced spy thriller with authentic details. It follows a journalist tracking down a Soviet agent's story, offering a complex narrative.

Kirkus Reviews describes 'The Soul of Viktor Tronko' as a stylish but slow-paced spy thriller. The reviewer appreciates the authentic details and the complex story of a journalist tracking down a Soviet agent's tale. They highlight the book's rich suspense and the intricate plot that keeps readers engaged. The reviewer also notes that the pacing might not be for everyone, but the depth of the story makes it worthwhile.

Quick quotes

    Another stylish if slow-paced spy thriller distinguished by its authentic detail.

    Here, Quammen offers the complex story of a journalist tracking down a Soviet agent's tale.

    The book is rich in suspense and intricate plotting.

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