"Child 44" is a masterclass in suspense set against a backdrop of historical oppression. The chilling atmosphere of Stalin's Soviet Union becomes a character of its own. As you journey with Leo, whose faith in the system gets ruthlessly challenged, you'll find yourself grappling with the paradoxes of humanity, justice, and survival. This book isn't just a story; it's a psychological experience that mirrors the era's paranoia and fear.

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• Booker Prize Nominee for Longlist (2008)
• Barry Award for Best First Novel (2009)
• Anthony Award Nominee for Best First Novel (2009)
• Dilys Award Nominee (2009)
• Galaxy British Book Awards for New Writer of the Year (2009)
• ITW Thriller Award for Best First Novel (2009)
• Los Angeles Times Book Prize
• Strand Critics Award for Best First Novel (2008)
• CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger (2008)
• Desmond Elliott Prize Nominee (2008)
• このミステリーがすごい！ for Best Translated Mystery Novel of the Year in Japan (2009)
• Japan Adventure Fiction Association Prize 日本冒険小説協会大賞特別賞 for Best Translated Novel (2008)
• Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year Nominee for Shortlist (2010)

In a country ruled by fear, no one is innocent.Stalin's Soviet Union is an official paradise, where citizens live free from crime and fear only one thing: the all-powerful state. Defending this system is idealistic security officer Leo Demidov, a war hero who believes in the iron fist of the law, but when a murderer starts to kill at will and Leo dares to investigate, the State's obedient servant finds himself demoted and exiled. Now, with only his wife at his side, Leo must fight to uncover shocking truths about a killer--and a country where "crime" doesn't exist.

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