Joseph Kanon shares the highlights of Berlin

The Soviet occupation of Berlin in 1940 brings to mind images of boots and bombings. In “Leaving Berlin,” Joseph Kanon weaves a Soviet story that masterfully juxtaposes espionage and morality. Four years after the end of the war, Berlin found itself in a state of social and political disarray. The black market is becoming the most reliable source of basic necessities and the tired bonds of trust are as fragile as the burned-out shells of the buildings that litter the landscape.

Young Jewish writer Alex Meier left Berlin for America before World War II in an act of self-preservation, but was called back to his roots by the Soviets with an olive branch, promising anti-fascist culture and special privileges. As the Red Scare reaches its height, Alex faces much hostility in his new home and agrees to return to Berlin as an agent for the fledgling CIA in order to avoid deportation. Life as an agent quickly intensifies as Alex finds himself involved in a kidnapping and murder with a warrant out for his arrest. The list of reliable sources shortens as he discovers he was set up to follow the love of his life, a woman he left in his past.

Readers will struggle to follow the tangled web that Alex must weave to survive in this cataclysmic context. A story of love and duplicity, “Leaving Berlin” takes the concept of intrigue and espionage to a whole new level, captivating readers until the very last page. Learn more about Joseph Kanon's new thriller at https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Leaving-Berlin/Joseph-Kanon/9781476704654.

Please take the opportunity to connect and share this video with your friends and family if you find it useful.