A Shadow in Moscow: A Cold War Novel

Separated by a span of thirty years, Ingrid Bauer and Anya Kadinova both work as spies against the KGB. In the 1950s, just after the end of World War II, Ingrid insinuates herself into the upper echelons of Soviet society, gathering information to pass along to MI6. Decades later, inspired by a taste of life in America, Anya takes up work with the CIA, passing along not government secrets but schematics from her workplace.

I was enchanted almost right away by both Anya and Ingrid. Each is a strong, fascinating character, and each has her own way to face an oppressive regime. Reay’s real strength, though, is in making them lively. She balances their strengths and their vulnerabilities perfectly, making them seem alive vibrant on every page. My one wish was that the first part of Ingrid’s story could have lasted longer. It felt a bit as though World War II was rushed through to get to the Cold War.

Overall, I heartily enjoyed this book, and am glad to see Cold War fiction expanding again. I would recommend this to historical fiction fans, especially to those who might need something fresh after reading multiple novels about plucky women in World War II.