It intrigues me when people read the very same book,
yet have a completely different understanding once they reach the end. I appreciate all views that readers take away
from my book. Some like the romance
aspect in my story and have written that they could feel the love, fear, and
heartbreak. Other readers value the historical
side—Sergei Kourdakov’s life with the KGB and his defection from the Soviet
Union.
When I wrote A
Rose for Sergei it was important for me to show a different side of Sergei—one
of truthfulness and honesty. Whereas
some newspapers, magazines and films portrayed Sergei Kourdakov as a fraud, I needed
to show readers what he was really like.
Forty-four years ago on January 10, 1973, Sergei Kourdakov
was buried in Rock Creek Cemetery in Washington DC. On this anniversary, it is the perfect time to
share one reader’s take-away from this true story. The following review, written by “Avid
Reader,” captures the unique and courageous side of Sergei Kourdakov.
* * *
Classic
Cold War Story!
Wow. Just
- WOW. What a beautiful book! I couldn't have guessed that a story of a KGB
agent defection would be one of the most uplifting stories I've ever read. But
it was. Those of us who live in
middle-class comfort - who have warm homes and food stored in the pantry, who
have the freedom to travel, spend time with our loved ones, and choose our own
work have much to be grateful for. The
character's humanity, sense of morality, generosity, kindness, and integrity -
his ability to find joy in the little treasures in the United States are truly
inspiring. A Rose for Sergei makes me
really conscious about using all the good in my own life - and not wasting a
single moment of it.
I find it hard to believe that Sergei’s
death was an accident.
—Review by Avid Reader
