The Wolves of Leninsky Prospekt

Sarah Armstrong (Sandstone Press)

Having married her brother’s gay best friend, Kit, to help him appear more of a family man to his colleagues in his mysterious job in 70s-era Soviet Union, Martha prepares herself for a new life in this beautiful yet oppressive part of the world. Enthusiastic but naïve and being unable to trust anyone makes her increasingly isolated. She meets several interesting characters who add depth and mystery to the plot but cannot form long standing attachments due to the nature of the situation. Having no reliable maps of Moscow, Martha sets out to discover her own version by walking around the city but this is not always as straightforward as she hopes. A well-written depiction of the connection between people and place this is a compelling read taut with claustrophobia and paranoia. LM

Price: £7.99. Info: www.sandstonepress.com