A review by treandgro
Between Two Fires: Truth, Ambition, and Compromise in Putin's Russia by Joshua Yaffa

5.0

I was swept away by the complex portraits of conflicted individuals facing compelling conflicts that make up this book. The author has clearly spent a great deal of time interacting with most of the subjects he details, and with close associates of those he was unable to meet. It was a breath of fresh air to read humanizing accounts of Russians navigating challenges in their politics and culture, really viewed from a much different angle than what we've seen in American news over the past several years. From religion to art to warfare, terrorism, and humanitarian work, the book is filled with insights into a spectrum of issues faced by Russians across various walks of life. It's a tremendous read for anyone interested in a more detailed look into contemporary Russian life, and an eye-opening introduction to individuals who have faced dilemmas that may have startling relevance for our own lives, whether in politics or business or media.