Untraceable

Lebedev's novel is a thrilling thriller that delves into the secret world of poisons, exploring themes of evil, secret worlds, and the nature of power. The story follows Professor Kalitin, a ruthless chemist who develops an untraceable poison called Neophyte while working in a secret city in the Russian far east. When the Soviet Union collapses, he defects and is given a new identity in Germany. However, when an unrelated Russian is murdered with Kalitin's poison, his cover is blown and he becomes involved in a German investigation of the death. Two special forces killers are sent to silence him, using his own undetectable poison, resulting in a journey filled with blunders, mishaps, and accidents. The novel provides a fascinating window into modern Russia and is praised for its unique perspective and engaging writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 02 September 2021
Publisher: Head of Zeus

A thrilling novel that delves into the realm of secret worlds and explores the nature of evil, "The Poisoner's Handbook" by Sergei Lebedev offers a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the darker side of human nature.

Set in a secret city on an island in the Russian far east, the story revolves around Professor Kalitin, a ruthless and narcissistic chemist who has developed an untraceable and extremely lethal poison called Neophyte. Working in secrecy, Kalitin is driven by his desire for power and control, and he is willing to do anything to achieve his goals.

However, when the Soviet Union collapses, Kalitin defects and is given a new identity in Germany. He hopes to start a new life and leave his past behind, but his plans are soon disrupted when an unrelated Russian is murdered with his poison. The German investigation into the death brings Kalitin into the spotlight, and he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions.

As the German investigation unfolds, two special forces killers are sent to silence Kalitin. They are skilled assassins with a lot of Chechen blood on their hands, and they are determined to use Kalitin's own undetectable poison to achieve their mission. Their journey to their target is filled with blunders, mishaps, holdups, and accidents, adding to the tension and suspense of the story.

"The Poisoner's Handbook" is a powerful and provocative novel that offers a fascinating window into modern Russia. Sergei Lebedev, one of Russia's most interesting young novelists, takes on a range of themes, including politics, power, and the nature of evil. Through his characters, Lebedev explores the complex relationships between individuals and society, and he raises important questions about the moral and ethical implications of our actions.

The novel is praised for its vivid and engaging writing, which brings the characters to life and creates a sense of urgency and tension throughout. Lebedev's portrayal of Professor Kalitin is particularly compelling, as he is a complex and nuanced character who is both terrifying and sympathetic. The use of poison as a central theme adds an extra layer of intrigue and danger to the story, and Lebedev handles it with skill and precision.

In conclusion, "The Poisoner's Handbook" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys thrilling novels that delve into the darker side of human nature. With its compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and skillful writing, this novel offers a unique and powerful perspective on the world we live in.

Weight: 182g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800246614