Russian society is hungry for innovations and products, and there are plenty of people who would be more than happy to sell them what they want. The author shows how this is a new and vibrant society that has the choice to go anywhere it wants to go right now. It is like a baby taking its' first tiny steps. It is certain the Russian people will make mistakes along their new journey, but with author's like Smith showing the rebirth of Russian society, it is certain that people around the globe will understand just what the Russian people are working, hoping, dreaming, and striving for today. The book also looks at other European society and subtly compares it to Russia and beyond. A beer garden in Munich shows the reader how much Europe has also changed since World War II and in the wake of the Soviet breakup. Smith writes, "The man's eyes darted to his Soviet coat. He said, 'You like the beer, the food, the life? It's nice. We worked forty years to have it so" (Smith 176). This sums up much of European society concisely. Europe has struggled since World War II and gained new success, prosperity, and a more modern society. Now, Russia must struggle to catch up. It is another glimpse into the sociology of a country and people who have been in the "dark ages" and is now attempting to embrace modern society at the speed of light.

A liked most all of this book. The mystery kept me engaged, and the details kept me constantly thinking about Russian society and how it is...

The details are always there, if the reader is ready to look. For example, another chapter notes, "They looped ahead of a Lada whose windshield was patched with pins, paper and glue. Windshields were hard to come by. The driver steered with his head out the side" (Smith 49). The reader understands that while Russians are free, life is still extremely hard in the country. These details also point out the very many conveniences and extravagances that Americans take for granted, and points out the vast differences in our society and those of others around the world. It makes the reader take a hard look at what is truly important, ponder how societies can differ so greatly, and still have so many commonalities.
In conclusion, I would certainly recommend this book to readers who are interested in learning more about Russian society after the breakdown of the Soviet Union. It is an interesting and enlightening look into the social problems that come along with newfound freedom. It is also an interesting detective story, which will help keep the reader turning the pages as they learn more about how Russians face freedom and westernized society today. It is also a deeper look into capitalism and many of the items our society takes for granted. This book is a fascinating comparison of societies and what they value, just as much as it is an exciting murder mystery.