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Back in the USSR
Enter a world of coded messages, secret gatherings, maps made by spies, walls that have ears, cellars dripping with menace, and skyscrapers that trap you in the clouds.
When Harrison, the 14-year-old son of American diplomats, lands in Moscow at the height of the Cold War, all he wants is to be left alone with his daydreams and his music.
But his father has vanished. His mother is keeping secrets. And his friend Prudence, the fearless daughter of foreign correspondents, leads him on a chase across a frozen city that changes everything.
Suddenly surrounded by danger on all sides, Harrison and Prudence race against spies and mobsters to recover a priceless vinyl record that just might save the world.
Loaded with suspense, packed with puzzles, and laced with sly humor, Back in the USSR takes you on a wild ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat right up to its emotional, uplifting ending. It’s perfect for fans of Code Name Verity, Alex Rider, City Spies, and The Bletchley Riddle.
"MASTERFUL ... EXPERTLY PACED ... RIVETING." -The BookLife Prize by Publishers Weekly (Middle Grade/Young Adult Semifinalist)
"A book about rock 'n' roll and its power to fight suppression, feed the human spirit and kick butt." -Reader review
“Read this in two days – couldn’t put it down.” -Reader review
“I completely fangirl Back in the USSR by Patrick D. Joyce.” -A License to Quill blog
"Vividly painted and irresistible … a fun, rich, and sophisticated page-turner … Highly recommended!" -Tim Weed, award-winning author of the young adult adventure Will Poole's Island
When Harrison, the 14-year-old son of American diplomats, lands in Moscow at the height of the Cold War, all he wants is to be left alone with his daydreams and his music.
But his father has vanished. His mother is keeping secrets. And his friend Prudence, the fearless daughter of foreign correspondents, leads him on a chase across a frozen city that changes everything.
Suddenly surrounded by danger on all sides, Harrison and Prudence race against spies and mobsters to recover a priceless vinyl record that just might save the world.
Loaded with suspense, packed with puzzles, and laced with sly humor, Back in the USSR takes you on a wild ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat right up to its emotional, uplifting ending. It’s perfect for fans of Code Name Verity, Alex Rider, City Spies, and The Bletchley Riddle.
"MASTERFUL ... EXPERTLY PACED ... RIVETING." -The BookLife Prize by Publishers Weekly (Middle Grade/Young Adult Semifinalist)
"A book about rock 'n' roll and its power to fight suppression, feed the human spirit and kick butt." -Reader review
“Read this in two days – couldn’t put it down.” -Reader review
“I completely fangirl Back in the USSR by Patrick D. Joyce.” -A License to Quill blog
"Vividly painted and irresistible … a fun, rich, and sophisticated page-turner … Highly recommended!" -Tim Weed, award-winning author of the young adult adventure Will Poole's Island
- GenresMystery
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2022
1 person is currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Patrick D. Joyce
2 books12 followersI write historical thriller novels that combine mystery and suspense with a powerful sense of place.
As the son of a U.S. Foreign Service officer, I grew up in extraordinary places. After early years in Burma (Myanmar), West Germany, and Washington, D.C., I lived in Nicaragua, Cuba, and three times in the Soviet Union. At embassies staffed by diplomats, Marines, and spies, I was surrounded by secrets.
In addition to writing books, I’ve been a newspaper reporter, a political science lecturer, and a medical practice manager. I live in Massachusetts, where I can be found haunting coffee shops, taking long walks with my wife, and practicing martial arts.
Visit patrickdjoyce.com to sign up for author updates and receive a free short story.
As the son of a U.S. Foreign Service officer, I grew up in extraordinary places. After early years in Burma (Myanmar), West Germany, and Washington, D.C., I lived in Nicaragua, Cuba, and three times in the Soviet Union. At embassies staffed by diplomats, Marines, and spies, I was surrounded by secrets.
In addition to writing books, I’ve been a newspaper reporter, a political science lecturer, and a medical practice manager. I live in Massachusetts, where I can be found haunting coffee shops, taking long walks with my wife, and practicing martial arts.
Visit patrickdjoyce.com to sign up for author updates and receive a free short story.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 13, 2022
I didn't realize when I requested the book that it was intended for a teenage and YA audience, and I am well beyond that age category. My four-star rating is based on what I believe will be its appeal to a younger audience, and hope will introduce them to some recent cultural history of the Soviet Union and to the music of the Beatles. They should find it an exciting story.
I found this to be a nostalgic read. I remember when the Beatles and their music first burst on the western scene. I had been a tourist in Russia during the time Kruschev was in control. Much later, I travelled to some countries comprising part of the former USSR and later to Russia again after Putin took over. While reading the book, the song Back in the USSR resounded in my mind.
Harrison George, a fourteen-year-old, overly imaginative but quiet American boy, arrives in Moscow to visit his parents, diplomats at the American embassy. He was inadvertently named with a Beatles name in reverse. He brings a Beatle tape with him, which he shares with a friend, Pru. She is the daughter of reporters, a Canadian and an Ethiopian, is adventurous and speaks Russian. She was named after a Beatles song, Dear Prudence.
On the plane, Harrison was seated beside a Russian man who expressed an interest in Western culture and the music of the Beatles. Later at a Christmas party at the embassy, he sees his mother in conversation with the man from the plane. They are discussing the hidden spirituality and religion in Russia, and his mother quotes Lenin in favour of science and cultural norms. The man retorts with a quote from Lennon (John), suggesting a decline in spirituality. Harrison learns the man is KGB. Will he be a friend or for when they meet again?
When Harrison and Pru visit a market, they stop at a booth where some black-market tapes are sold. They see an extraordinarily beautiful woman, and Pru decides to follow her as a lark. They had noticed a man at the booth and see his dead body on the street. He has a tattoo marking him as a member of the Russian Mafia.
Decadent western culture has been suppressed and outlawed in the USSR. Beatle records have become a valuable commodity for collectors. The Mafia is intent on getting possession of the White Album (missing in Russia) and enriching themselves by making copies of the record album. The Minister of Culture is after the album to destroy it.
Harrison and Pru find themselves on a wild adventure after seeing the dead member of the Mafia lying in the street. They are captured by the Mafia and find themselves in a series of incidents involving Beatles music. Harrison phones an old classmate in America, Max, a physics genius. Not wanting to be overheard on the phone, they devise a backwards code like the Beatles inserted in an album. Max suggests that Harrison and Pru are not involved in these events by chance or coincidence. By following his physics reasoning, they are the cause and attract such events. Tapes of rock music, including Beatles, can be found on the black market, some disguised as legal Russian music. On these, Pru and Harrison find codes directing them to illegal concerts. With collectors, the Government and Mafia after the White album, the two young people decide it is safer to have the album in their possession. Not a wise decision.
The story concludes with a dazzling New Years' celebration in Red Square, where the teens have a dangerous encounter. A lovely outcome takes place, but only in Harrison's imagination, but we hope it becomes true.
Recommended for young people for its musical references, intrigue, and exciting chase scenes. It is due to be published on December 1. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
I found this to be a nostalgic read. I remember when the Beatles and their music first burst on the western scene. I had been a tourist in Russia during the time Kruschev was in control. Much later, I travelled to some countries comprising part of the former USSR and later to Russia again after Putin took over. While reading the book, the song Back in the USSR resounded in my mind.
Harrison George, a fourteen-year-old, overly imaginative but quiet American boy, arrives in Moscow to visit his parents, diplomats at the American embassy. He was inadvertently named with a Beatles name in reverse. He brings a Beatle tape with him, which he shares with a friend, Pru. She is the daughter of reporters, a Canadian and an Ethiopian, is adventurous and speaks Russian. She was named after a Beatles song, Dear Prudence.
On the plane, Harrison was seated beside a Russian man who expressed an interest in Western culture and the music of the Beatles. Later at a Christmas party at the embassy, he sees his mother in conversation with the man from the plane. They are discussing the hidden spirituality and religion in Russia, and his mother quotes Lenin in favour of science and cultural norms. The man retorts with a quote from Lennon (John), suggesting a decline in spirituality. Harrison learns the man is KGB. Will he be a friend or for when they meet again?
When Harrison and Pru visit a market, they stop at a booth where some black-market tapes are sold. They see an extraordinarily beautiful woman, and Pru decides to follow her as a lark. They had noticed a man at the booth and see his dead body on the street. He has a tattoo marking him as a member of the Russian Mafia.
Decadent western culture has been suppressed and outlawed in the USSR. Beatle records have become a valuable commodity for collectors. The Mafia is intent on getting possession of the White Album (missing in Russia) and enriching themselves by making copies of the record album. The Minister of Culture is after the album to destroy it.
Harrison and Pru find themselves on a wild adventure after seeing the dead member of the Mafia lying in the street. They are captured by the Mafia and find themselves in a series of incidents involving Beatles music. Harrison phones an old classmate in America, Max, a physics genius. Not wanting to be overheard on the phone, they devise a backwards code like the Beatles inserted in an album. Max suggests that Harrison and Pru are not involved in these events by chance or coincidence. By following his physics reasoning, they are the cause and attract such events. Tapes of rock music, including Beatles, can be found on the black market, some disguised as legal Russian music. On these, Pru and Harrison find codes directing them to illegal concerts. With collectors, the Government and Mafia after the White album, the two young people decide it is safer to have the album in their possession. Not a wise decision.
The story concludes with a dazzling New Years' celebration in Red Square, where the teens have a dangerous encounter. A lovely outcome takes place, but only in Harrison's imagination, but we hope it becomes true.
Recommended for young people for its musical references, intrigue, and exciting chase scenes. It is due to be published on December 1. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2022
I think Back In The USSR by Patrick D Joyce is a book that young adults and teens would love, an adventure of mystery and political intrigue. AND, if you grew up with The Beatles like I did, and love adventure, I think you may interested too.
Harrison George and Prudence accidentally become involved in the search for the missing White Album by the Beatles. There are others that want it too, gangsters and spies. Harrison grows up quickly, as he and Prudence try to figure out WHY.
I would, normally, give a book like Back In The USSR, a three rating, but Patrick D Joyce gave me more than I expected. It is well written, with a pace that kept me turning pages, wondering what all the fuss is about. He includes much of the Russian culture, their ‘fear’ of the West and the music that could cause a rebellion.
Running through the streets of Russia, dodging the bad guys, Harrison and Prudence learn how far music lovers will go to feel a moment of freedom and joy.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Back In The USSR by Patrick D Joyce.
Harrison George and Prudence accidentally become involved in the search for the missing White Album by the Beatles. There are others that want it too, gangsters and spies. Harrison grows up quickly, as he and Prudence try to figure out WHY.
I would, normally, give a book like Back In The USSR, a three rating, but Patrick D Joyce gave me more than I expected. It is well written, with a pace that kept me turning pages, wondering what all the fuss is about. He includes much of the Russian culture, their ‘fear’ of the West and the music that could cause a rebellion.
Running through the streets of Russia, dodging the bad guys, Harrison and Prudence learn how far music lovers will go to feel a moment of freedom and joy.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Back In The USSR by Patrick D Joyce.
November 6, 2022
Read his full post on Rosepoint Publishing.
The story begins with Prudence begging Harrison (her best friend in Moscow) for a taped copy of The White Album, one of the Beatles' most famous recordings. The government in the USSR has banned decadent western music, so everyone in Moscow wants to get a copy of the album! Harrison does not realize it but he and the album are highly sought after and prized.
This story slips in and out of the bad side of life in the Soviet Union. They feel the music destroys the control that the government holds over the people. A long term in jail could result from being caught with the music.
Harrison’s quest to find the mysterious lady of his dreams leads him and Prudence into a very dangerous situation. Gangsters and underworld figures will stop at nothing to get the album or tape. Prudence’s parents are Canadian and Harrison’s are U.S. citizens and both of their parents work in embassies. Harrison and Prudence manage to stay one step ahead of the gangs and organized mobsters.
This book is fun and fast-moving and the characters are well-developed. Geared for a younger target, but you might very well enjoy the adventure, I know I did. 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story begins with Prudence begging Harrison (her best friend in Moscow) for a taped copy of The White Album, one of the Beatles' most famous recordings. The government in the USSR has banned decadent western music, so everyone in Moscow wants to get a copy of the album! Harrison does not realize it but he and the album are highly sought after and prized.
This story slips in and out of the bad side of life in the Soviet Union. They feel the music destroys the control that the government holds over the people. A long term in jail could result from being caught with the music.
Harrison’s quest to find the mysterious lady of his dreams leads him and Prudence into a very dangerous situation. Gangsters and underworld figures will stop at nothing to get the album or tape. Prudence’s parents are Canadian and Harrison’s are U.S. citizens and both of their parents work in embassies. Harrison and Prudence manage to stay one step ahead of the gangs and organized mobsters.
This book is fun and fast-moving and the characters are well-developed. Geared for a younger target, but you might very well enjoy the adventure, I know I did. 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 21, 2022
The back-cover synopsis had me lunging for this book, which I easily read in just a couple of evenings. It's quite the page-turner! Now, I'm not going to write a book report describing the plot for you. All you need to know about the premise is in the synopsis. If it's tickled your curiosity, just take a leap of faith and hang on - it's gonna be a bumpy, wild ride.
One of my favorite characteristics of our protagonist, Harrison, is his delightfully out-of-control imagination, which brings the sights and people of Moscow to life in surreal ways. Imagine a crowded street, when suddenly all the pedestrians turn into roly-poly Matryoshkas, Russian nesting dolls. Or hearing "Kopek for your thoughts, tovarish?" from the guy who's sat down next to you on a park bench, and when you look at him, it's a bronze statue of Lenin taking a break from its pedestal.
Harrison's bestie is Prudenceu. While he comes to Moscow during American school breaks to visit his parents, Pru's living in the city full-time and attending a Russian school. They nicely fill in the blanks for each other - she's better at reading Russian, he's got access to Western things like Walkmans and music cassettes. However, they both share an obsession with the Beatles and seem to know everything about their music and careers.
The book's author grew up as a child of diplomats, and it shows in his beautifully crafted descriptions of Moscow's buildings and people, He brings the city to life for us readers. We see everything through Harrison's eyes, a Moscow that is both a beautiful, historic marvel, and also a waking nightmare. A visit to the Bolshoi is especially memorable, as is an underground nightclub.
A clever trick Harrison uses to speak freely on the phone with a friend back in the States is both impressive AND a tribute to one of the weirder aspects of Beatlemania.
If you love spy thrillers, slick heist capers, National Treasure-ish quests, you'll enjoy this. If you want to know more about Russia, Moscow, and even the Beatles, you're going to learn a lot! For example, I never knew that "Once, people made record albums from X-ray films. But those music-on-bones records are difficult to make."
This is a YA novel, but don't limit yourself if you're older. YA readers will be amazed at the music culture of the Beatles era, but us older folks will find ourselves smiling knowingly from time to time. highly recommend this unique adventure.
One of my favorite characteristics of our protagonist, Harrison, is his delightfully out-of-control imagination, which brings the sights and people of Moscow to life in surreal ways. Imagine a crowded street, when suddenly all the pedestrians turn into roly-poly Matryoshkas, Russian nesting dolls. Or hearing "Kopek for your thoughts, tovarish?" from the guy who's sat down next to you on a park bench, and when you look at him, it's a bronze statue of Lenin taking a break from its pedestal.
Harrison's bestie is Prudenceu. While he comes to Moscow during American school breaks to visit his parents, Pru's living in the city full-time and attending a Russian school. They nicely fill in the blanks for each other - she's better at reading Russian, he's got access to Western things like Walkmans and music cassettes. However, they both share an obsession with the Beatles and seem to know everything about their music and careers.
The book's author grew up as a child of diplomats, and it shows in his beautifully crafted descriptions of Moscow's buildings and people, He brings the city to life for us readers. We see everything through Harrison's eyes, a Moscow that is both a beautiful, historic marvel, and also a waking nightmare. A visit to the Bolshoi is especially memorable, as is an underground nightclub.
A clever trick Harrison uses to speak freely on the phone with a friend back in the States is both impressive AND a tribute to one of the weirder aspects of Beatlemania.
If you love spy thrillers, slick heist capers, National Treasure-ish quests, you'll enjoy this. If you want to know more about Russia, Moscow, and even the Beatles, you're going to learn a lot! For example, I never knew that "Once, people made record albums from X-ray films. But those music-on-bones records are difficult to make."
This is a YA novel, but don't limit yourself if you're older. YA readers will be amazed at the music culture of the Beatles era, but us older folks will find ourselves smiling knowingly from time to time. highly recommend this unique adventure.
November 21, 2022
The back-cover synopsis had me lunging for this book, which I easily read in just a couple of evenings. It's quite the page-turner! Now, I'm not going to write a book report describing the plot for you. All you need to know about the premise is in the synopsis. If it's tickled your curiosity, just take a leap of faith and hang on - it's gonna be a bumpy, wild ride.
One of my favorite characteristics of our protagonist, Harrison, is his delightfully out-of-control imagination, which brings the sights and people of Moscow to life in surreal ways. Imagine a crowded street, when suddenly all the pedestrians turn into roly-poly Matryoshkas, Russian nesting dolls. Or hearing "Kopek for your thoughts, tovarish?" from the guy who's sat down next to you on a park bench, and when you look at him, it's a bronze statue of Lenin taking a break from its pedestal.
Harrison's bestie is Prudence. While he comes to Moscow during American school breaks to visit his parents, Pru's living in the city full-time and attending a Russian school. They nicely fill in the blanks for each other - she's better at reading Russian, he's got access to Western things like Walkmans and music cassettes. However, they both share an obsession with the Beatles and seem to know everything about their music and careers.
The book's author grew up as a child of diplomats, and it shows in his beautifully crafted descriptions of Moscow's buildings and people, He brings the city to life for us readers. We see everything through Harrison's eyes, a Moscow that is both a beautiful, historic marvel, and also a waking nightmare. A visit to the Bolshoi is especially memorable, as is an underground nightclub.
A clever trick Harrison uses to speak freely on the phone with a friend back in the States is both impressive AND a tribute to one of the weirder aspects of Beatlemania.
If you love spy thrillers, slick heist capers, National Treasure-ish quests, you'll enjoy this. If you want to know more about Russia, Moscow, and even the Beatles, you're going to learn a lot! For example, I never knew that "Once, people made record albums from X-ray films. But those music-on-bones records are difficult to make."
This is a YA novel, but don't limit yourself if you're older. YA readers will be amazed at the music culture of the Beatles era, but us older folks will find ourselves smiling knowingly from time to time. I highly recommend this unique adventure.
One of my favorite characteristics of our protagonist, Harrison, is his delightfully out-of-control imagination, which brings the sights and people of Moscow to life in surreal ways. Imagine a crowded street, when suddenly all the pedestrians turn into roly-poly Matryoshkas, Russian nesting dolls. Or hearing "Kopek for your thoughts, tovarish?" from the guy who's sat down next to you on a park bench, and when you look at him, it's a bronze statue of Lenin taking a break from its pedestal.
Harrison's bestie is Prudence. While he comes to Moscow during American school breaks to visit his parents, Pru's living in the city full-time and attending a Russian school. They nicely fill in the blanks for each other - she's better at reading Russian, he's got access to Western things like Walkmans and music cassettes. However, they both share an obsession with the Beatles and seem to know everything about their music and careers.
The book's author grew up as a child of diplomats, and it shows in his beautifully crafted descriptions of Moscow's buildings and people, He brings the city to life for us readers. We see everything through Harrison's eyes, a Moscow that is both a beautiful, historic marvel, and also a waking nightmare. A visit to the Bolshoi is especially memorable, as is an underground nightclub.
A clever trick Harrison uses to speak freely on the phone with a friend back in the States is both impressive AND a tribute to one of the weirder aspects of Beatlemania.
If you love spy thrillers, slick heist capers, National Treasure-ish quests, you'll enjoy this. If you want to know more about Russia, Moscow, and even the Beatles, you're going to learn a lot! For example, I never knew that "Once, people made record albums from X-ray films. But those music-on-bones records are difficult to make."
This is a YA novel, but don't limit yourself if you're older. YA readers will be amazed at the music culture of the Beatles era, but us older folks will find ourselves smiling knowingly from time to time. I highly recommend this unique adventure.
December 11, 2022
Fourteen-year-old Harrison George arrives in the USSR to visit his American diplomat parents. In the times of the Cold War, all Western influences are banned, and propaganda is rife.
Harrison is a dreamer who loves The Beatles. When he and his friend, Pru, daughter of foreign correspondents, follow the ‘Mysterious Woman’ across the streets of Moscow, they have no idea of the deadly consequences.
The duo get tangled up in a chase for a rare record of The Beatles. It appears the whole of Moscow, including the mafia, wants it…
I enjoyed this young adult novel, mainly because I love The Beatles, and I grew up in a 1980s communist Poland, a country under Russian rule at that time.
This book is full of historical references and a great introduction into what life in the USSR was like back then (although I don’t think much has changed since then!). I loved all the references to The Beatles’ songs, I found myself humming them as I was reading the book. I also liked Harrison’s surname, a take on George Harrison, The Beatles’ member.
This is a tale of spies, not knowing who you can trust, with The Beatles at the heart of it.
My thanks to author Patrick D. Joyce and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Harrison is a dreamer who loves The Beatles. When he and his friend, Pru, daughter of foreign correspondents, follow the ‘Mysterious Woman’ across the streets of Moscow, they have no idea of the deadly consequences.
The duo get tangled up in a chase for a rare record of The Beatles. It appears the whole of Moscow, including the mafia, wants it…
I enjoyed this young adult novel, mainly because I love The Beatles, and I grew up in a 1980s communist Poland, a country under Russian rule at that time.
This book is full of historical references and a great introduction into what life in the USSR was like back then (although I don’t think much has changed since then!). I loved all the references to The Beatles’ songs, I found myself humming them as I was reading the book. I also liked Harrison’s surname, a take on George Harrison, The Beatles’ member.
This is a tale of spies, not knowing who you can trust, with The Beatles at the heart of it.
My thanks to author Patrick D. Joyce and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 7, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed Joyce’s fast-paced young adult spy thriller. He deftly weaves together mystery, music, history, romance and adventure in this story of two teens living in the Soviet Union—the son of diplomats and the daughter of foreign correspondents—who, in their quest for a priceless Beatles album, unwittingly become the target of Soviet mobsters, the KGB, and black market collectors. Joyce writes beautifully, and the language he uses to describe things is fresh and evocative. Like any good mystery/thriller, Back in the USSR is replete with unexpected twists and page-turning suspense. But what stands out most is the author’s masterful depiction of Cold War Russia: Like his main character, Joyce, the son of American diplomats, lived in Moscow as a teen, and it was fascinating to get a glimpse into what life was like in the Soviet Union during this tense period of Soviet-US relations. I highly recommend Back in the USSR and can’t wait to read the prequel, Strawberry Fields!
December 14, 2022
Back in the USSR is the kind of novel capable of transporting a reader almost bodily to another time and place: in this case, Moscow in winter, in the middle of the Cold War, with Beatles an international phenomenon, banned in the USSR. Joyce’s duo of intrepid young protagonists are vividly painted and irresistible, and his firsthand experience of Moscow and diplomatic corps are evident in the details that animate and enliven this fast-moving novel of international intrigue. Add to this parallel love stories, uncanny visions, and a recurring theme of Beatles songs coming to life, and you have the recipe for a fun, rich, and sophisticated page-turner. A most worthy addition to the pantheon of YA spy novels, echoes of Graham Greene and John Le Carré but with an entirely contemporary sensibility. Highly recommended!
December 3, 2025
As someone who went to college in Moscow, I was suspicious at first about the Russian culture authenticity of Back in the USSR. My suspicions melted after a few pages. No wonder. Patrick Joyce is the son of US diplomats, and he lived in Moscow for a while.
The book’s protagonists, Prudence Akobo and Harrison George, two 14-year-old foreigners living in Moscow with their parents, have become amateur detectives against their will. From the Beatles’ music to cypher, from Moscow’s Godmother to a Mystery Woman, from a cold corpse to a million-dollar Album (its value could be beyond the money), from Russian Mafia to the underground, their adventure in the Cold War climate of the nineteen eighties was getting hotter and hotter until coming to fruition in the ice-covered Red Square.
I’m well past young adult age, but I enjoyed the book. So will you.
The book’s protagonists, Prudence Akobo and Harrison George, two 14-year-old foreigners living in Moscow with their parents, have become amateur detectives against their will. From the Beatles’ music to cypher, from Moscow’s Godmother to a Mystery Woman, from a cold corpse to a million-dollar Album (its value could be beyond the money), from Russian Mafia to the underground, their adventure in the Cold War climate of the nineteen eighties was getting hotter and hotter until coming to fruition in the ice-covered Red Square.
I’m well past young adult age, but I enjoyed the book. So will you.
December 20, 2022
I'm a bit confused. Who is this for? Maybe it's a Young Adult novel. The protagonists are in their early teens. Would a YA reader connect with all the Beatles stuff? Or maybe it's really written for someone who was a teenager in the 1960s (e.g., ME). I know all the Beatles songs. Have the whole collection. Even performed a few back in my on-stage days (not memorable). Or maybe Joyce has just got all audiences covered?
It's an easy, well-paced read. Short sentences. Good. The plot tension gets cracking on page one and doesn't let up much, except for the occasional need to explain things. I really enjoyed it. Add a STAR if it's intended for a 74 year old reader who can still channel his 14 year old self.
It's an easy, well-paced read. Short sentences. Good. The plot tension gets cracking on page one and doesn't let up much, except for the occasional need to explain things. I really enjoyed it. Add a STAR if it's intended for a 74 year old reader who can still channel his 14 year old self.
November 27, 2022
Read this if you enjoy: a descriptive city setting (Moscow), realistic teenage characters, a realistic mystery, the Beatles
A fun coming of age story in a unique setting of Moscow, this book shows a teenager learning to take risks, and discovering a life outside of his (literal) parental protection.
The story has mystery, crime, and spy thriller elements along with a dash of teenage romance and politics. With a little of everything, all of these themes don’t overwhelm the story, but they make it realistic and keep it engaging to the end.
I’m not a Beatles fan, so I likely missed many references and call-backs, but that didn’t get in the way of myself enjoying the book.
A fun coming of age story in a unique setting of Moscow, this book shows a teenager learning to take risks, and discovering a life outside of his (literal) parental protection.
The story has mystery, crime, and spy thriller elements along with a dash of teenage romance and politics. With a little of everything, all of these themes don’t overwhelm the story, but they make it realistic and keep it engaging to the end.
I’m not a Beatles fan, so I likely missed many references and call-backs, but that didn’t get in the way of myself enjoying the book.
November 30, 2022
Fast-paced, fun and full of appealing characters who pop off the page, grab you and pull you in. It’s a page-turner that revolves around Soviets, spies, a secret cold war map - and the Beatles.
This is a book about rock ’n’ roll and its power to fight suppression, feed the human spirit and kick butt.
The author is a true wordsmith. His descriptions are bullseye spot-on and give the book a You-Are-There quality - while his prose is packed with numerous turns of phrase so fresh and crisp it feels like reading Raymond Chandler or Jonathan Carroll.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
#BackintheUSSR
#NetGalley
#Beatles
#ColdWar
This is a book about rock ’n’ roll and its power to fight suppression, feed the human spirit and kick butt.
The author is a true wordsmith. His descriptions are bullseye spot-on and give the book a You-Are-There quality - while his prose is packed with numerous turns of phrase so fresh and crisp it feels like reading Raymond Chandler or Jonathan Carroll.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
#BackintheUSSR
#NetGalley
#Beatles
#ColdWar
December 2, 2022
Back in the USSR is perhaps the most enjoyable read of the year. I was drawn into the story from the very first page and each succeeding page demanded more of my attention. Mr. Joyce lures you from chapter to chapter with his character descriptions and compelling story line. The main characters are entirely relatable and all of the other characters interface so neatly that the entire tale is completely plausible. There are great surprises along the way as he transports you to the streets of Moscow. Mr. Joyce demonstrates an uncanny feel for Beatles music as well as a deft understanding of life in a communist state. I’d give it 6 stars if you’d let me.
February 2, 2023
Back in the USSR is a love letter to Beatles music, and just as Harrison lands in the Soviet Union we too are transported into a universe of intrigue, mystery, danger, and excitement. The fast pace is engaging and makes for a great read. I really enjoyed the consistent theme of music that permeates the novel and the mystery which adds a layer of excitement and fun. I only wish that I were a bigger fan of the Beatles since a few references went over my head. I'd absolutely recommend this book to anyone looking for a good mystery or young adult novel and especially to lovers of The Beatles music. (Also, I listened to The Beatles in the background while reading, and I highly recommend it.)
November 26, 2022
A on entertaining adventure in Moscow with a pair of teenagers - one from a diplomatic family, and the other the child of journalists. They have a lot of freedom in a very tough town and end up finding themselves wrapped up in a mystery. Will they figure it before they get wrapped too tight?
Insert lots of Beatles references and have a fun ride!
Note: review based on an advance review copy from the author. The book comes out Dec 1, 2022.
Insert lots of Beatles references and have a fun ride!
Note: review based on an advance review copy from the author. The book comes out Dec 1, 2022.
December 9, 2022
Back in the U.S.S.R. was a fun read with engaging characters that transports you back to the cold war period. The action revolves around the Beatles but you don't have to be a super-fan to follow the action. Patrick weaves in the essential bits of Beatles esoterica so you don't have to go onto Wikipedia to understand the plot. All in all it was a well-written, fast paced, action-filled thriller. Can't wait for the next one. Highly recommend this one. Enjoy.
January 14, 2023
I bought this book for my teenage sons but couldn't put it down myself! Joyce has a fantastic sense of pacing and flow; he hooks you into the intrigue from page one and keeps you glued as the plot thickens, twists, and unfolds. Lots of action, great characters and voice, plenty of thrills and twists. He vividly brings Cold War Moscow to life. If you are a fan of Alex Ryder novels or the Beatles, you'll love this too!
January 22, 2023
This was a very fun read. Although I found a few of the coincidences a bit fantastical, I really enjoyed following Prudence and Harrison's adventure and couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen in the next chapter. I also found interesting the window on what it may have been like to be in the Soviet Union during this time period.
Thanks to the author for an advance copy of the book. This is my voluntary and honest review!
Thanks to the author for an advance copy of the book. This is my voluntary and honest review!
November 30, 2022
Fast-paced, fun and full of appealing characters who pop off the page, grab you and pull you in. It’s a page-turner that revolves around Soviets, spies, a secret cold war map - and the Beatles.
This is a book about rock ’n’ roll and its power to fight suppression, feed the human spirit and kick butt.
The author is a true wordsmith. His descriptions are bullseye spot-on and give the book a You-Are-There quality - while his prose is packed with numerous turns of phrase so fresh and crisp it feels like reading Raymond Chandler or Jonathan Carroll.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
#BackintheUSSR
#NetGalley
#Beatles
#ColdWar
This is a book about rock ’n’ roll and its power to fight suppression, feed the human spirit and kick butt.
The author is a true wordsmith. His descriptions are bullseye spot-on and give the book a You-Are-There quality - while his prose is packed with numerous turns of phrase so fresh and crisp it feels like reading Raymond Chandler or Jonathan Carroll.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
#BackintheUSSR
#NetGalley
#Beatles
#ColdWar
December 12, 2022
A fun book for a teenage audience. Cold War thrills and intrigue that seems plausible enough that you can insert yourself into it. A satisfying end, which is unusual for many YA books (too many series require cliffhangers). Guaranteed to make you re-listen to some Beatles albums!
Note: I did receive an advance copy, but was not pressured to leave any kind of review, good or bad.
Note: I did receive an advance copy, but was not pressured to leave any kind of review, good or bad.
February 18, 2023
This was a page-turner! If you are mature adult, don’t be deterred by the designation of this novel as YA fiction. It is an intriguing, creative and thoroughly entertaining story with endearing protagonists. Bonus if you are a Beatles fan! I am looking forward to the next one in this series, Mr. Joyce.
April 21, 2023
Well, that turned out to be a lot of fun.
It started out slow for me, in the laying of the groundwork about the two main characters and the supporting characters. I think in part due to my Beatles knowledge, as I’m not a huge fan.
But, as a mystery lover, once the mystery started I was hooked.
And, actually, it made me want to go listen to all the Beatles albums.
It started out slow for me, in the laying of the groundwork about the two main characters and the supporting characters. I think in part due to my Beatles knowledge, as I’m not a huge fan.
But, as a mystery lover, once the mystery started I was hooked.
And, actually, it made me want to go listen to all the Beatles albums.
February 19, 2023
Patrick Joyce checks off all the boxes for an exciting read. Joyce uses mystery, adventure and historical fiction to take you on a wild ride through Russia in the 1980's. I immediately got invested in the two main teen characters Harrison and Pru who get mixed up with government officials, mafia and artists who want the missing Beatles White Album. Who will end up finding it and who will ultimately get it and why. You may have to suspend a bit of reality with all that these teens get themselves into but it's great read. I actually listened to the White Album while reading this book.
January 25, 2023
Odd book, but I enjoyed it.
It is a spy thriller, a mystery, a look back in history, an ode to cold war era pop music (especially The Beatles), and perhaps a bit of a coming-of-age story. What's not to like?
Solid 4 stars.
It is a spy thriller, a mystery, a look back in history, an ode to cold war era pop music (especially The Beatles), and perhaps a bit of a coming-of-age story. What's not to like?
Solid 4 stars.
May 13, 2023
Parte troppo lento, ed è troppo semplicistico riguardo ai Beatles
[Disclaimer: Ho ricevuto il libro grazie al programma Early Reviewer di LibraryThing]
Beh, chi mi conosce sa che io sono un grande beatlesiano: e questo purtroppo mi fa abbassare il voto a questo libro. Sì, è carino che il protagonista si chiami "Harrison George" (George è il cognome) e la sua amica sia Prudence; è anche carino che la storia si svolga in Unione Sovietica e giri intorno a un album dei Beatles: ma alcuni dei riferimenti del libro sono davvero banali, e non penso nemmeno possano essere apprezzati dai young adult, che dovrebbero essere il pubblico di riferimento. Anche le visioni che ha Harrison sono parte della trama, come si capisce alla fine, ma l'associazione mi pare davvero forzata. Detto questo, la seconda parte del libro è più interessante della prima: insomma, anche se all'inizio non vi convince può valere la pena di proseguire nella lettura.
[Disclaimer: Ho ricevuto il libro grazie al programma Early Reviewer di LibraryThing]
Beh, chi mi conosce sa che io sono un grande beatlesiano: e questo purtroppo mi fa abbassare il voto a questo libro. Sì, è carino che il protagonista si chiami "Harrison George" (George è il cognome) e la sua amica sia Prudence; è anche carino che la storia si svolga in Unione Sovietica e giri intorno a un album dei Beatles: ma alcuni dei riferimenti del libro sono davvero banali, e non penso nemmeno possano essere apprezzati dai young adult, che dovrebbero essere il pubblico di riferimento. Anche le visioni che ha Harrison sono parte della trama, come si capisce alla fine, ma l'associazione mi pare davvero forzata. Detto questo, la seconda parte del libro è più interessante della prima: insomma, anche se all'inizio non vi convince può valere la pena di proseguire nella lettura.
January 2, 2026
This novel is Tom Clancy for a younger audience! I loved the thrill ride of this story, which kept me turning the pages and on the edge of my seat. The author also created a unique mystery centered on the Beatles' music. AND I learned a lot about life in Russia during the Cold War.
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