Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Cold Warrior by Robert Tucker follows Kasia Kerenski, a street performer turned Hollywood actress who becomes unwittingly entangled in international espionage. As the daughter of Soviet spies, a fact she was unaware of, she becomes a pawn in a geopolitical game of global politics, manipulated by both the CIA and KGB. Caught between two powerful intelligence agencies and pressured into acting as a double agent, Kasia is thrust into a dangerous mission. This includes uncovering a CIA mole and fueling political unrest in Chile, all while trying to maintain her tenuous and highly public persona as an international celebrity. As troubles mount, she must balance her own desires with the realization that her life may no longer be her own, all while trying to protect her family from the fallout.

Cold Warrior by Robert Tucker is a genuinely thoughtful story that transcends the typical spy thriller. Kasia’s desperate attempts to balance her glamorous public image with her covert espionage activities are effectively portrayed and uniquely believable. Tucker's writing invites readers into the fold. I have to admit that, as a mother, the kidnapping of Kasia's child and the accompanying chaos almost broke me. As a plot driver, it's brilliant. For my blood pressure, not so much. Tucker offers a true-to-life commentary on how authoritarian regimes use power to oppress individuals and control lives, often for political propaganda. There is sympathy for the victims of the dehumanizing nature of oppressive governments, giving us hope that, despite overwhelming odds, Michael and Kasia will stick to their survival instincts. Overall, this is a gripping and fast-moving read with plenty of room to continue with a sequel. Recommended.