Corpus. Mentem. Anima.
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Title: The Secrets We Kept
Author: Lara Prescott
Edition: Uncorrected Proof Copy, ARC
Provenance: Rare copy
Format: Paperback
Date Published: 2019
Publisher: Hutchinson, Penguin Random House UK
Description:
Lara Prescott's acclaimed debut novel, a Reese's Book Club pick, delves into the fascinating true story behind the publication of Boris Pasternak's banned masterpiece, Doctor Zhivago, set against the backdrop of the Cold War. The story is told through dual narratives: in the Soviet Union, we follow Olga Ivinskaya, Pasternak's mistress and the muse for Lara in the novel, as she endures the brutal realities of Soviet oppression and the Gulag for her forbidden love and association with the dissenting author. In Washington DC, a group of underestimated but sharp-witted female secretaries in the CIA's typing pool find themselves recruited into a daring operation to smuggle Doctor Zhivago into the USSR. Among them are the glamorous and experienced Sally Forrester and the talented novice Irina, whose Russian heritage makes her a valuable asset. This sweeping historical fiction explores the power of literature, the courage of those who fought for freedom of expression, and the often-hidden roles women played in the Cold War. It is a gripping blend of espionage, forbidden love, and historical detail, perfect for fans of captivating narratives and unique perspectives on history. This uncorrected proof copy is a rare item for collectors interested in the early stages of a book's publication before its official release.
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