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Baltic Shadows
Autumn, 1986.
In the wake of glasnost and perestroika, the Soviet Union struggles to maintain control over a fractured empire. Numerous republics clamor for independence, with dissident groups emboldened by Moscow's new, liberal policies.
In Canada, in the heart of Toronto's Latvian diaspora, Gustavs Ziediņs has never been one for émigré politics. But when a leading activist dies under mysterious circumstances, Gustavs finds himself reluctantly drawn into the ranks of an underground resistance network, entering an unforgiving world of conspiracy, deception and deadly intrigue.
Unraveling the dark secrets of his community forces Gustavs to question the motives of cynical detectives, beguiling Soviet defectors, and cunning agents provocateurs. As the body count continues to rise, the answers Gustavs seeks may yet lie across the ocean in the bleak, Soviet fog of Eastern Europe. In order to uncover the traitor in their midst, Gustavs will be forced to risk his life in the occupied capital of Riga, a city long forgotten in the sinister shadow of the Iron Curtain.
In the wake of glasnost and perestroika, the Soviet Union struggles to maintain control over a fractured empire. Numerous republics clamor for independence, with dissident groups emboldened by Moscow's new, liberal policies.
In Canada, in the heart of Toronto's Latvian diaspora, Gustavs Ziediņs has never been one for émigré politics. But when a leading activist dies under mysterious circumstances, Gustavs finds himself reluctantly drawn into the ranks of an underground resistance network, entering an unforgiving world of conspiracy, deception and deadly intrigue.
Unraveling the dark secrets of his community forces Gustavs to question the motives of cynical detectives, beguiling Soviet defectors, and cunning agents provocateurs. As the body count continues to rise, the answers Gustavs seeks may yet lie across the ocean in the bleak, Soviet fog of Eastern Europe. In order to uncover the traitor in their midst, Gustavs will be forced to risk his life in the occupied capital of Riga, a city long forgotten in the sinister shadow of the Iron Curtain.
- GenresFiction
276 pages, Hardcover
Published January 17, 2023
1 person is currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 15, 2025
BALTIC SHADOWS
In just over 300 pages, Gustavs Ziedinš has his world view of his beloved Canadian Latvian immigrant community flipped on its head.
Set in the 1980s during the Cold War, the Baltic nations continue to strive for independence from the Soviet empire. But that Soviet control has a longer reach than the Latvians in Toronto had ever imagined. Filled with wonderful descriptions and celebrations of Latvian heritage, from foods and traditions to close knit relationships, Baltic Shadows paints a very beautiful image of solid community.
As Director of English Studies at the Parkdale English Academy, Zeidenš is a respected member of the community. He becomes involved in a murder investigation of a local political leader, Imats Baron. The crime leads to connections in Riga, and the Ziedinš’ low stress existence vanishes overnight. An unlikely spy is born, and the tensions and suspicions get pretty extreme.
A very enjoyable Cold War historical fiction and murder mystery, with elements of spy craft, Baltic Shadows is a fine book. I would like to thank NetGalley, Matejs Kalns, and Friesenpress for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In just over 300 pages, Gustavs Ziedinš has his world view of his beloved Canadian Latvian immigrant community flipped on its head.
Set in the 1980s during the Cold War, the Baltic nations continue to strive for independence from the Soviet empire. But that Soviet control has a longer reach than the Latvians in Toronto had ever imagined. Filled with wonderful descriptions and celebrations of Latvian heritage, from foods and traditions to close knit relationships, Baltic Shadows paints a very beautiful image of solid community.
As Director of English Studies at the Parkdale English Academy, Zeidenš is a respected member of the community. He becomes involved in a murder investigation of a local political leader, Imats Baron. The crime leads to connections in Riga, and the Ziedinš’ low stress existence vanishes overnight. An unlikely spy is born, and the tensions and suspicions get pretty extreme.
A very enjoyable Cold War historical fiction and murder mystery, with elements of spy craft, Baltic Shadows is a fine book. I would like to thank NetGalley, Matejs Kalns, and Friesenpress for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 31, 2023
What a good read. This is a wonderful Cold War spy thriller told in the style of John le Carre. Matejs Kalns is a novelist and university professor, and his debut BALTIC SHADOWS has great writing and an intriguing plot that makes you feel the cold, isolation, uncertainty, and fear of going into a hostile country without knowing if the next person you meet will help you or betray you ... highly recommend.
February 21, 2023
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. The opening scene will lull you into a peaceful account of yet another get-together event of the Latvian diaspora of Toronto. You will try to imagine the tastes and smells of unusual dishes and smile at the piercing sense of nostalgia the author laces through the description of domestic bliss. And then – boom! – the narrative takes a sharp bend, and you find yourself in the tangle of foreign spies, politics, and people thrown in the middle of a game with high stakes.
As much as I love a good spy story, the main charm of “Baltic Shadows” by Matejs Kalns for me was a unique opportunity to get an insider look at the life of the Latvian diaspora in Canada. The author portrays how Latvians in Canada preserve their culture and traditions far away from home in a touching and gentle way. Moreover, the book offers a glimpse at how those who left Latvia at the time of the huge turmoil WWII threw Europe into, see their home country. I love reading memoirs and biographies. Thus, I’ve noticed that many of those who leave their home country, keep its image intact in their memory. Even after decades, they keep their homeland in their hearts exactly the way it was when they still lived there. So, I found “Baltic Shadows” extremely educating since a lot of political leaders in modern Latvia are Canadian and American citizens, members of Latvian communities. Sometimes their decisions seem a little controversial, and now I understand better the basis for choosing certain directions for our country's development.
It’s important to note that even if you aren’t interested in the history and traditions of one small European country, “Baltic Shadows” still has a lot to offer. It is a fast-paced spy thriller with twists and turns that will make you turn the pages. It also has some bright characters whose actions you won’t be able to predict.
Gustavs Ziediņš, a respected member of the Latvian diaspora, born in Canada but brought up to love and respect his ancestors’ traditions and lifestyle, has had his share of grief. Still, his life was calm and safe until a cosy Christmas get-together event is interrupted by a tragic death. It’s a usual practice that the police begin an investigation, but Gustavs feels uncomfortable sensing that their questions go beyond the incident at the party. He meets a woman, the love interest of his youth, and suddenly he finds himself unable to keep staying detached from the political undercurrents in his community. The resistance movement with branches in Canada and across the ocean in Latvia pulls him in. His life is at risk now. He can’t be sure whom he can trust. His task isn’t grading students’ papers anymore. He has agreed to take part in a perilous mission not fully realising what he’s gotten himself into. But he is determined to do what it takes to do everything to succeed in his task. After all, it isn’t only about fighting for the global cause of his home country regaining independence. It is for his friends who have given everything to the cause, even their lives.
“Baltic Shadows” by Matejs Kalns is a story that will leave you musing about the multi-faceted tapestry of history, as well as about the role a person plays in making the global wheels keep moving.
As much as I love a good spy story, the main charm of “Baltic Shadows” by Matejs Kalns for me was a unique opportunity to get an insider look at the life of the Latvian diaspora in Canada. The author portrays how Latvians in Canada preserve their culture and traditions far away from home in a touching and gentle way. Moreover, the book offers a glimpse at how those who left Latvia at the time of the huge turmoil WWII threw Europe into, see their home country. I love reading memoirs and biographies. Thus, I’ve noticed that many of those who leave their home country, keep its image intact in their memory. Even after decades, they keep their homeland in their hearts exactly the way it was when they still lived there. So, I found “Baltic Shadows” extremely educating since a lot of political leaders in modern Latvia are Canadian and American citizens, members of Latvian communities. Sometimes their decisions seem a little controversial, and now I understand better the basis for choosing certain directions for our country's development.
It’s important to note that even if you aren’t interested in the history and traditions of one small European country, “Baltic Shadows” still has a lot to offer. It is a fast-paced spy thriller with twists and turns that will make you turn the pages. It also has some bright characters whose actions you won’t be able to predict.
Gustavs Ziediņš, a respected member of the Latvian diaspora, born in Canada but brought up to love and respect his ancestors’ traditions and lifestyle, has had his share of grief. Still, his life was calm and safe until a cosy Christmas get-together event is interrupted by a tragic death. It’s a usual practice that the police begin an investigation, but Gustavs feels uncomfortable sensing that their questions go beyond the incident at the party. He meets a woman, the love interest of his youth, and suddenly he finds himself unable to keep staying detached from the political undercurrents in his community. The resistance movement with branches in Canada and across the ocean in Latvia pulls him in. His life is at risk now. He can’t be sure whom he can trust. His task isn’t grading students’ papers anymore. He has agreed to take part in a perilous mission not fully realising what he’s gotten himself into. But he is determined to do what it takes to do everything to succeed in his task. After all, it isn’t only about fighting for the global cause of his home country regaining independence. It is for his friends who have given everything to the cause, even their lives.
“Baltic Shadows” by Matejs Kalns is a story that will leave you musing about the multi-faceted tapestry of history, as well as about the role a person plays in making the global wheels keep moving.
February 10, 2023
I received an Advanced Reader copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
This captivating historical mystery is a glimpse into the lives and struggles of the Baltic peoples who, in the waning days of WWII, fled their once free homelands rather than suffer under the boot of Marxism and the Soviet empire.
Having found safety and employment in Toronto, a number of Latvian immigrants raise families, share a church, use the same stores and doctor and gather to celebrate the seasons and holidays according to their customs.
An ocean separates the diaspora from Latvia — the Soviet Republic of Latvia — and the KGB. The immigrants escaped the tyranny but always there are the rumors of someone being followed home, breathy telephone calls at odd hours and the occasional whisper that mention collaboration. Some in the community have written at length about self-determination; their writings have reached the hands of dissidents who distribute them in the various Soviet republics. The diaspora is aware that Moscow's eyes are watching as they gather and smuggle money and goods in to Latvia to support the underground movement.
In Toronto, police detectives watch and question after the mysterious death of a long-time Latvian leader. The number of deaths in the Latvian community increases. Gossip and suspicions of traitorous dealings ripple through the community.
Richly seasoned with brief mentions of Latvia's bucolic countryside, her poetry, food and music, the story weaves that which was left behind into the diaspora's efforts to replicate it. The common goal is to preserve the Latvian culture, free the homeland from the Soviets and return there to live. Behind closed doors, divisions within the community — the Latvian organizations, the schools, the summer camps — which faction is properly preserving the culture. Suspicion and mistrust quietly fester. But there is another, a newer and younger faction who attended the Chautauqu Conference in the Soviet Republic of Latvia's city, Jūrmala, and heard the American delegates declare the 1940 Soviet election in Latvia to be a farce and witnessed the distribution of lapel pins emblazoned with the REAL flag of Latvia. It is the time of Gorbachev, a bit of light. The new, younger group looks beyond the finger-pointing and the rehashing of national tragedies and utters the words: Accords of '75 and Helsinki-86.
This story, although it is fiction, is real and authentic. For anyone who knows and loves Latvia, and the other Baltic States, or someone who wants to understand this largely unknown part of history, I highly recommend Baltic Shadows.
This captivating historical mystery is a glimpse into the lives and struggles of the Baltic peoples who, in the waning days of WWII, fled their once free homelands rather than suffer under the boot of Marxism and the Soviet empire.
Having found safety and employment in Toronto, a number of Latvian immigrants raise families, share a church, use the same stores and doctor and gather to celebrate the seasons and holidays according to their customs.
An ocean separates the diaspora from Latvia — the Soviet Republic of Latvia — and the KGB. The immigrants escaped the tyranny but always there are the rumors of someone being followed home, breathy telephone calls at odd hours and the occasional whisper that mention collaboration. Some in the community have written at length about self-determination; their writings have reached the hands of dissidents who distribute them in the various Soviet republics. The diaspora is aware that Moscow's eyes are watching as they gather and smuggle money and goods in to Latvia to support the underground movement.
In Toronto, police detectives watch and question after the mysterious death of a long-time Latvian leader. The number of deaths in the Latvian community increases. Gossip and suspicions of traitorous dealings ripple through the community.
Richly seasoned with brief mentions of Latvia's bucolic countryside, her poetry, food and music, the story weaves that which was left behind into the diaspora's efforts to replicate it. The common goal is to preserve the Latvian culture, free the homeland from the Soviets and return there to live. Behind closed doors, divisions within the community — the Latvian organizations, the schools, the summer camps — which faction is properly preserving the culture. Suspicion and mistrust quietly fester. But there is another, a newer and younger faction who attended the Chautauqu Conference in the Soviet Republic of Latvia's city, Jūrmala, and heard the American delegates declare the 1940 Soviet election in Latvia to be a farce and witnessed the distribution of lapel pins emblazoned with the REAL flag of Latvia. It is the time of Gorbachev, a bit of light. The new, younger group looks beyond the finger-pointing and the rehashing of national tragedies and utters the words: Accords of '75 and Helsinki-86.
This story, although it is fiction, is real and authentic. For anyone who knows and loves Latvia, and the other Baltic States, or someone who wants to understand this largely unknown part of history, I highly recommend Baltic Shadows.
March 22, 2024
I have been eagerly awaiting another book written by Matejs Kalns. After reading his first book - "Beasts of Night" a few years ago I was hooked.
His new book, "Baltic Shadows" continues Kalns' track record of exceptional writing.
The stories Kalns writes are full of wonderful details, that only those who have thoroughly immersed themselves in a place and culture can truly represent in their writing.
In this novel, set in the Cold War 1980's, Kalns provides a fascinating exploration of Canada's Latvian diaspora, including insights into how Latvians who fled the horrors of the Second World War adapted to life across the pond in the Great White North.
The protagonist, Gustavs Ziediņš, is part of the generation of Canadian-Latvians born in Canada, whose parents immigrated from Latvia. Imbued with a love of his heritage, cultures, and tradition, Gustavs is proud of both his Latvian and Canadian origins.
Gustavs has experienced tragedy in the past, yet has reached a place of equilibrium and stability, and a enjoys a relatively quiet life, employed as a university professor, and author.
His life was simple and predictable, until one day, everything changes.
Attending what should be a joyous event - a Christmas party - brings more misfortune into Gustavs' orbit, and he is drawn into the middle of a Police investigation.
Yet, the investigation seems to lead to even more questions that seem to aim at the heart of the Latvian Community, beyond what the Police are nominally looking into.
Soon Gustavs is drawn into a web of intrigue, romance, and danger, that exposes the deep inner workings of his community in Canada, and what it's ties to Latvia entail, as evidenced by an underground resistance movement.
An absolutely gripping spy thriller! "Baltic Shadows" had me very looking forward to when I could pick it up again, and continue on with the story of the main character, Gustavs, wondering if he can survive the peril he must endure.
There are so many twists and turns in this novel, and I didn't know where it was heading! Wow, did it deliver in the suspense department!
For every lover of an exhilarating spy novel, with great characters, wonderfully detailed scene descriptions, and a compelling look at the Latvian Community in Canada and beyond, don't let Baltic Shadows pass you by.
Another truly enjoyable novel by Matejs Kalns!!!!
5 stars!
His new book, "Baltic Shadows" continues Kalns' track record of exceptional writing.
The stories Kalns writes are full of wonderful details, that only those who have thoroughly immersed themselves in a place and culture can truly represent in their writing.
In this novel, set in the Cold War 1980's, Kalns provides a fascinating exploration of Canada's Latvian diaspora, including insights into how Latvians who fled the horrors of the Second World War adapted to life across the pond in the Great White North.
The protagonist, Gustavs Ziediņš, is part of the generation of Canadian-Latvians born in Canada, whose parents immigrated from Latvia. Imbued with a love of his heritage, cultures, and tradition, Gustavs is proud of both his Latvian and Canadian origins.
Gustavs has experienced tragedy in the past, yet has reached a place of equilibrium and stability, and a enjoys a relatively quiet life, employed as a university professor, and author.
His life was simple and predictable, until one day, everything changes.
Attending what should be a joyous event - a Christmas party - brings more misfortune into Gustavs' orbit, and he is drawn into the middle of a Police investigation.
Yet, the investigation seems to lead to even more questions that seem to aim at the heart of the Latvian Community, beyond what the Police are nominally looking into.
Soon Gustavs is drawn into a web of intrigue, romance, and danger, that exposes the deep inner workings of his community in Canada, and what it's ties to Latvia entail, as evidenced by an underground resistance movement.
An absolutely gripping spy thriller! "Baltic Shadows" had me very looking forward to when I could pick it up again, and continue on with the story of the main character, Gustavs, wondering if he can survive the peril he must endure.
There are so many twists and turns in this novel, and I didn't know where it was heading! Wow, did it deliver in the suspense department!
For every lover of an exhilarating spy novel, with great characters, wonderfully detailed scene descriptions, and a compelling look at the Latvian Community in Canada and beyond, don't let Baltic Shadows pass you by.
Another truly enjoyable novel by Matejs Kalns!!!!
5 stars!
April 14, 2023
The novel follows the transformation of Gustav, a reluctant hero who gets caught in a series of events that change the course of his life; definitely a unique take on how communism and the Cold War impact those in exile.
I found Matejs Kalns’ writing both poetic and gripping at an intense pace. It reminded me of Sebastian Faulks’ writing. Matejs Kalns’ descriptions of places are evocative, the characters’ traits bear individuality, and most of all, the Latvians’ love for good food draws the reader into a multi-sensory universe.
The story arc is beautifully crafted, with different points of view skilfully intertwined in the overall story. I found interesting the exploration of exile and life in exile, as well as the shaping of identities of those formed by a totalitarian regime. There is a delightful dichotomy between Gustav and Zharkov.
The concepts of family, nationality, and belonging drew me into the narrative from the beginning. The closeness of connections, the unconventional support of family members, and the exiled community becoming a family create a different sense of belonging. I usually enjoy reading about family dynamics, and I found this novel’s exploration even more interesting as it brings readers in front of new experiences from the perspective of exile/migration.
A captivating story.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
I found Matejs Kalns’ writing both poetic and gripping at an intense pace. It reminded me of Sebastian Faulks’ writing. Matejs Kalns’ descriptions of places are evocative, the characters’ traits bear individuality, and most of all, the Latvians’ love for good food draws the reader into a multi-sensory universe.
The story arc is beautifully crafted, with different points of view skilfully intertwined in the overall story. I found interesting the exploration of exile and life in exile, as well as the shaping of identities of those formed by a totalitarian regime. There is a delightful dichotomy between Gustav and Zharkov.
The concepts of family, nationality, and belonging drew me into the narrative from the beginning. The closeness of connections, the unconventional support of family members, and the exiled community becoming a family create a different sense of belonging. I usually enjoy reading about family dynamics, and I found this novel’s exploration even more interesting as it brings readers in front of new experiences from the perspective of exile/migration.
A captivating story.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
January 29, 2024
The story is full of detail. I did however find in some areas I was losing interest unfortunately. This one did take me a lot longer to read and it was a constant battle of telling myself to pick it up and finish it off. The writing at time felt like it was going on for a while where most scenes, in my opinion, could have been made a bit shorter to keep me engaged.
The book is not bad at all, it's very good and very well written. But it contains ALOT of slow paced scenes. This did have certain parts where characters were having conversations and the imense detail in each conversation made me feel like I was sitting right there with them.
I'd recommend this one if historical thrillers are your thing but do be weary of its lengthy and often times slow paced story telling.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest opinions/review.
The book is not bad at all, it's very good and very well written. But it contains ALOT of slow paced scenes. This did have certain parts where characters were having conversations and the imense detail in each conversation made me feel like I was sitting right there with them.
I'd recommend this one if historical thrillers are your thing but do be weary of its lengthy and often times slow paced story telling.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest opinions/review.
July 2, 2024
When I was a little girl, a girl from Latvia joined our class. She taught us a song in Latvian, and, although I can’t remember the words, I can still hear the melody. Years later, I met a young woman from Latvia. That’s pretty much my Latvian experience, and I remained curious. US schools do a pretty poor job of teaching European history.
So when I received Baltic Shadows from The Niche Reader, I was thrilled.
The story is fascinating. It takes place in the mid-1980s, generally in Toronto, Canada, home to a large Latvian community. The characters are well-drawn and complete. I learned so much about Latvia’s history and culture, along with the effects following the Russian takeover of the country. The plot twists and turns are great. I loved seeing the language.
Great book. I want to read more by this author.
So when I received Baltic Shadows from The Niche Reader, I was thrilled.
The story is fascinating. It takes place in the mid-1980s, generally in Toronto, Canada, home to a large Latvian community. The characters are well-drawn and complete. I learned so much about Latvia’s history and culture, along with the effects following the Russian takeover of the country. The plot twists and turns are great. I loved seeing the language.
Great book. I want to read more by this author.
April 12, 2023
This is the second book for author Matejs Kalns, one that feels closer to his personal and community history than the first one.
The story takes place in the 80's in Toronto and Riga, Latvia, and tells the story of the resistance groups and their actions in both places to regain Latvian independence from the Russian, it is a Cold war spy thriller that keeps you guessing until the ending of the group.
The author's writing is very good, weaving a tale and story that keeps you engage with good character development and excellent descriptions of places and situations.
Do yourself a favor and read this book, and also read his first book, Beasts of the Night, you won't be disappointed.
Can't wait to read more books from this author.
The story takes place in the 80's in Toronto and Riga, Latvia, and tells the story of the resistance groups and their actions in both places to regain Latvian independence from the Russian, it is a Cold war spy thriller that keeps you guessing until the ending of the group.
The author's writing is very good, weaving a tale and story that keeps you engage with good character development and excellent descriptions of places and situations.
Do yourself a favor and read this book, and also read his first book, Beasts of the Night, you won't be disappointed.
Can't wait to read more books from this author.
April 12, 2023
This was the first time reading this author...and I'm hooked. The book was well-written in a unique and different style than I'm used to...but I loved the fresh take. It made me fall in love with the genre all over again. This story is definitely one to sit down and read all at once, you're not gonna want to put this down until you know exactly what is going on and who is responsible!! Gripping and full of twists and unexpected turns, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced suspenseful read!!
I received a copy of this book via The Niche Reader and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book via The Niche Reader and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 21, 2023
‘Baltic Shadows’ is an international mystery crime set in 1986. The Soviet Union is not finding it easy to hold control. It is 1986, and Gustavs Ziedins gets hired to investigate the death of a leading activist. Gustavs gets involved in a world of conspiracy and deception as he navigates the underground resistance network and unravels secrets the community has been covering up for years.
The intensity and intriguing narrative sets this story apart from others. The author has a particular skill in describing the scenes. While the pace is steady, the notion of secrecy is kept.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy fictional stories with drama, thrill, and thought-provoking dialogue.
The intensity and intriguing narrative sets this story apart from others. The author has a particular skill in describing the scenes. While the pace is steady, the notion of secrecy is kept.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy fictional stories with drama, thrill, and thought-provoking dialogue.
June 28, 2024
Absolutely loved this book from beginning to end. Growing up I was aware of how people were impacted by Russian influence. This reach extended to when they were visiting other countries. This impact was felt throughout the book. Along with a love of language , food , history and culture. It was easy to get caught up in the thoughts, feeling and actions of the characters. I was lucky enough to receive a free copy from The Niche Reader. It was such an enjoyment I will be purchasing this authors books and have recommended this author to others who I know enjoy the genre. If you enjoy poltical intrigue and it's effect of ordinary people. This is the book for you.
February 22, 2023
This is a very good Cold War spy thriller taking place in the late ‘80’s in Toronto and Riga, Latvia. It is smart, dark and at times, humorous. If you are a fan of spy thrillers - you will enjoy this.
The characters are well developed. The main character Gustavs Ziedins is an unassuming and at first unwilling participant in these circumstances. He is charming and likeable.
I do wish the book had a list of terms/translations at the back or bottom of the page.
(Disclaimer: I received an e/copy of this book in exchange for my honest review).
The characters are well developed. The main character Gustavs Ziedins is an unassuming and at first unwilling participant in these circumstances. He is charming and likeable.
I do wish the book had a list of terms/translations at the back or bottom of the page.
(Disclaimer: I received an e/copy of this book in exchange for my honest review).
July 6, 2024
If you’re a fan of learning about new cultures, historical fiction, spy novels or just an entertaining read this fits the bill.
I really enjoyed learning a bit about Latvian culture. It was also thought provoking in the way you question what you would do in this situation.
I liked getting to know the characters before the story kicks it up a notch with the intrigue and suspense.
I received a free copy from Niche Reader. Now I’m going to have to read his first book.
I really enjoyed learning a bit about Latvian culture. It was also thought provoking in the way you question what you would do in this situation.
I liked getting to know the characters before the story kicks it up a notch with the intrigue and suspense.
I received a free copy from Niche Reader. Now I’m going to have to read his first book.
April 7, 2023
A gripping slow-burn of a story about a community of immigrants with a shared ancestry of persecution in Eastern Europe—and how one man amongst them must face his fate. Kalns takes the reader on a heart-pounding ride that teaches us dark truths. In these times, especially, this book feels essential.
June 27, 2024
Baltic Shadows is an intriguing Cold War spy novel set in Toronto, Canada. I thought it was an interesting read that kept me turning the page. Gustav, who is the hero and a Latvian immigrant, still has to engage with the KGB even though he's thousands of miles away. This novel tells a story from a different point of view that is seldom told.
April 15, 2023
Gripping, fast-paced page turner. I was really interested by this glimpse into a different culture.
I’ve not been to any of the Baltic states but this book made me very curious to visit.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
I’ve not been to any of the Baltic states but this book made me very curious to visit.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
October 5, 2023
It took a little while to get into this book, but perseverance paid off. The juxtaposition of the USA based sections and those set in Eastern Europe was clunky at times but the story, once under way, rattled along nicely and most of the characters were relatable and believable (though not all!)
January 30, 2023
Baltic Shadows is a perfectly paced, compulsive Cold War thriller that subtly draws the reader into the world of a tightly knit group of Latvian dissidents and the struggle to free their homeland.
April 13, 2023
Pacing is glacial and plot lacks any real jeopardy. Dull.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews