The Soviet Network

by Amerigo Merenda

THE SOVIET NETWORK, an historical novel, is a story that involves underground saboteurs who gradually dismantle communism’s monolithic ideology. For generations, citizens behind the “iron curtain” were persecuted by dictators who smothered freedom and sheltered tyranny. Family relationships, threatened by espionage and violence, suffered through a reign of terror. Russia’s authoritarian political history will show its ugly face when millions of citizens are denied human rights. Liberal democracy could not penetrate one party’s domination until a respected Ukrainian military officer, Commander Rypchensky, organized a disciplined underground network whose goal was to replace totalitarian despotism with a democratic government. Romantic relationships are trapped in a web of political turmoil where murder and terror rip families and loved ones apart. Reading THE SOVIET NETWORK will reveal by contrast, how life in a totalitarian culture can destroy our human spirit.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 27, 2017

Reviews

[S. Palmer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set during the late 1980s, this is the story of a Soviet military commander's plotting to stage a coup against the decrepit regime, and the resulting ramifications for his family, country, and the world. It is skillfully plotted but crucially hobbled by a dry, nonfiction style narration. This is not to imply any dislike of nonfiction--there are many contexts in which I actually prefer it--but the facts remain that writers of fiction have options available to them that writers of nonfiction lack, and when they fail to take advantage of them, the story suffers for it.

There are segments of the novel that read just like a textbook, with switches to present tense, a break in the narration to describe the geopolitical and economic position of Latvia, and a section that leads with a BBC report. There are also some classic examples of what writing instructors mean when they tell students to show rather than tell. For instance, at one point, one conspirator literally whispers to another: "We must present a show of unity." Early on in the story, the author simply tells the reader that one character is planning to defect to the West, and than proceeds with the narration. This is one case that highlights the novel's tendency to waste plot points that could have been used to create tension and drama. The character's intentions could have come as a shock to the reader if revealed later in the narrative, but instead the author relays them in the most anti-climatic way possible.

The actual mechanics of the planned revolution at the novel's heart are by far its strongest aspect. Without revealing too much, I will say that it is clever, complex, and believable as something that the main character has spent years working towards. This is a refreshing contrast with most insurrection stories, which often come across as oversimplified and unrealistic. The author seems to actually be invested in how a transfer of power might work, rather than simply assuming that the reader wants it to. That being said, the stilted tone of the writing rob the novel's climatic scenes of emotional impact, leaving it (pardon the pun) bloodless.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Merenda in this historical novel tackles political topics such as espionage, sabotage and propaganda that implores readers to think critically even as they come to terms with the dealings of a rotten system. The Soviet Network was composed of spies and agents who gather intelligence reports in foreign countries. During the Cold War, human rights violation was rampant as there existed dictators wanting to impose their ideologies on matters governance and systems. Russians, in particular, were in the driver’s seat as they sought to distort the already widespread capitalism and replace it with communism. Ukrainian Commander Rypchensky determined to overturn the subjugation of democracy organized troops to counter the authoritarian leadership. The author brings to life the reality of the times during Cold War and what it meant to live under the oppression of dictators. He also describes how lack of freedom and economic inequalities plagued the citizens forcing the arrest, execution, and torture of those who did not comply with the rules. I loved every aspect of the book, including how the Soviet Network in a slow but sturdy way emerged triumphant. How relationships ended prematurely thanks to political ill will. The author succeeded in capturing the plight of the citizens under oppressive leadership ideologies and how democracy prevailed in the end. Lovers of history will enjoy reading the book. The author is well-informed about the subject giving the readers an easy time to peruse through without unquestionable facts. The book is well-structured making the reader engage more with the events as they unfold. Historical terms and concepts were a bit challenging which slowed down the reading pace. Not only will you get informed about the historical subject but also you will gain an understanding of the present political formations and their motives.

[Aditya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a big fan of politics, but a little political fiction inspired by real-life occurrences doesn't hurt anyone. This book is precisely that and it does an excellent job at what it offers to do. Since it is a political novel, reviewing it too much will ruin it for everyone, so here is a brief of what I think about this book.

The characters were very nicely portrayed. Their struggles and development over the series were clear. To be honest, it was to be expected because there was a single target/goal for almost all the characters; some had the positive side of the goal, some had the negative side of the goal whereas some had goals that branched from the main goal but overall, it all funnels down to the core idea of the book. I cannot say what the goal was, read the book for that. The setting, in my opinion, was the toughest thing to nail down in this book. The author, however, tackles this problem with grace and writes a very compelling environment overall.

All in all, this book was a very good read. So if you are interested in political fiction which is inspired by real-life organizations/events do read this. Also, thank you to the author for writing this wonderful book for us readers.

[Kibet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping journey

Merenda's storytelling prowess shines as he skillfully intertwines family relationships with espionage, violence, and a pervasive reign of terror. As readers journey through the pages, they'll witness the web of political turmoil ensnaring romantic relationships, tearing families and loved ones apart. The author doesn't shy away from exposing the harsh realities of life under Russia's authoritarian rule, showcasing how it could obliterate the human spirit.

One of the strengths of The Soviet Network lies in its ability to captivate readers with a well-organized and disciplined underground network. Commander Rypchensky's efforts to dismantle communism's grip on the region create an intense narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The tension and suspense build up, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.

Merenda's prose is evocative, transporting readers to a world where every page drips with the atmosphere of fear, bravery, and hope. The contrast between the stifling totalitarian culture and the aspirations for liberal democracy is vividly portrayed, making The Soviet Network not only a compelling historical novel but also a poignant commentary on the human spirit's resilience.

[Nikita Jha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amerigo Merenda's "Soviet Network" is a fantastic and captivating work of political and historical fiction. The plot is compelling, well-developed, and forceful. The characters are compelling, skillfully presented, and well-developed. Despite the multiple characters, the author has done a fantastic job portraying them and avoiding any confusion.
The book contains a wonderful balance of historical details, political intrigue, and romantic aspects. It emphasizes that the fight against tyranny and dictatorship will always be won by the pursuit of change, reforms, and the defence of human rights. The plot is compelling, well-developed, and forceful. The characters are compelling, skillfully presented, and well-developed. Despite the multiple characters, the author has done a fantastic job portraying them and avoiding any confusion.

The novel's composition of historical, political, corrupt, and romantic aspects is astounding. It emphasizes that the fight against tyranny and dictatorship will always be won by the pursuit of change, reforms, and the defence of human rights.

In summary, I think the book is worth reading.

[Purnima Khanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Soviet Network" by Amerigo Merenda is a wonderful and engaging novel of historical and political fiction genre. As the title suggests, the plot is about a group of like minded citizens, coming from different backgrounds and different walks of life. However, they are all united by a common motive and common conviction that the time has come that dictatorship, tyranny, gross violations of human rights of citizens shall be fought back and that a democracy shall be established in the great Soviet Union.
The plot is well knit, strong and engrossing. The characters are strong, well developed and well portrayed. Inspite of the fact that there are a number of characters, the author has wonderfully portrayed them and has successfully avoided any confusion.
The novel has an amazing mixture of elements like politics, history, corruption along with good amount of romance. It highlights that quest for transformation , reforms and protection of human rights will always be a winner against dictatorship and tyranny.

[SA · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a realistic but fictional depiction of the fall of Soviet Union from the eyes of a budding Network of underground members who seek so much more from a system that has given them only corruption, dictatorship, and poverty. When reform is unlikely to come on its own and when liberals are obstructed from coming to important places within the Party, a group of like-minded people comes together under the secret leadership of Party member, Mikoyanov to hasten the fall of the system. Attempting to distract the KGB from the inner workings of the network by diversionary policies and fabricated stories, the Network slowly advances. From Kristoff to Victor and from Zelensky to Orlov, the author tells the workings of this underground Network from the perspective of multiple people, weaving their personal stories into one another. If you like politics, espionage, and history, you will surely enjoy this book.

[Renee Bremer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peeking behind the iron curtain, Merenda creates a fully rounded historical drama based on the Cold War/Soviet Union.

He opens with a loving family, and a father who uses his time with his son to instill a strong sense of right and wrong. The son carries this through his life; it colors every aspect of his career, and eventually, his marriage.

This book shows the tension, the mission, and the dangers of living through a revolution. A Journalist who must walk an almost transparent, thin line between the accepted Communistic
drivel and truth.

I particularly was drawn to the sense of family, with all the love, the protectiveness, and heartbreaks. There is an incredible amount of history contained in this one book. History we must remember - so as not to repeat it. I cannot say more without spoiling the book for others!



“I have received a free copy on BookMuffin from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review”

[Writehandle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, for some, may be considered a very well-written piece of anti-Soviet propaganda. However, whether you agree with its politics or not, it definitely makes an interesting read.

The novel follows a fictional group of anti-Soviet saboteurs as they slowly dismantle the Soviet Union from within. But it’s not totally about political intrigues.

From page 1, there is a focus on the family of the main players involved, and how their ideologies may come back to hurt the ones they live in a police state. We feel not only for them, but for those they love, and there’s added pressure for them not to fail for this reason. Through the authors storytelling, we see the horrors of the police state the characters lived in, lending credibility to the heroes’ movement.

All in all, I believe that the book is definitely worth a read, at least for the story.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping tale of resistance

The Soviet Network masterfully captures the perils and complexities of life under a totalitarian regime through the eyes of a decorated World War II officer. As Commander Rypchensky rises within the ranks of the military, his awakening to the futility of oppressive politics is both poignant and compelling. The narrative intertwines thrilling action, deep intrigue, and heart-wrenching romantic tragedies, effectively immersing readers in the harrowing reality faced by individuals behind the Iron Curtain. The author skilfully portrays the struggles of an underground movement striving to dismantle the monolithic ideology of communism, revealing the impact of persecution on families and relationships caught in a web of violence and fear. It invites reflection on the enduring quest for freedom and the sacrifices made by those who dare to challenge oppressive structures. This novel is a gripping reminder of the resilience of hope and the power of grassroots movements in the fight for democracy.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

A historical novel by a local Long Island author correctly, in my opinion, attributing the breakup of the Soviet Union to the inherent flaws of a totalitarian form of government and the attraction of a free and market based society to most people, is hammered home. The plot surrounding the implosion (we all remember "Gorbachev Tear Down This Wall") includes some characters who organize, publicize and contribute to its demise-the "Network"- (Communist Party bosses, KGB a gents and the prerequisite sexy American CIA operative)all trying to expedite the breakup. Cameo mentions of local Long Island towns--Glen Cove- known to truly have Russian agents and UN staff as long as I can remember-, Huntington, Dix Hills and even the LIE.

[Donna Emperador · Rating 3 out of 5]

Insightful look into the breakdown of the USSR

The Soviet Network provides an interesting look at the fall of the USSR. While this is a work of fiction, the author provides insights into how corrupt officials and a poor economic system that can't replenish itself can lead to the downfall of society. The novel also looks at the steps leading up to revolution and the aftermath.

Although this novel contains a lot of politics and history, the author weaves individual stories to provide a human outlook on the times. Amerigo Merenda does a good job portraying the fears and passions of the Russians who had the courage to take action to facilitate change.

This is a good read for all who are into modern history.

[E. Efobi · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Soviet Network by Amerigo Meranda follows a group of saboteurs, some of whom are high-ranking military personnel, as they slowly dismantle Soviet Russian ideology from within.

The book reads like a spy movie from the 90’s. The danger at every turn and corner is palpable. Even more so because the characters are humanized and given serious, personal reasons to avoid failure, thereby adding a new layer of depth to the book.

I would recommend this book.

[Msoo Love Alkali · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely read. I enjoyed the plot twist and the story growth. Beautifully educative. Although sometimes I felt overwhelmed with information. But it's a lovely read