how does a divided city survive?
Everybody’s life in Berlin changed on that summer Saturday night in 1961, the night when the wall went up, when it sprouted out of nowhere. Now imagine you are a murder detective in East Berlin, working on a case with political implications — and in Berlin in 1961, they all have political implications. That is Peter Ritter’s new life.
"Need to relax, perhaps on vacation or a long weekend? take any Richard Wake book or books and enjoy yourself."
BOOK 1:
a death in east berlin
Peter Ritter is a detective on the East Berlin murder squad — the youngest detective they have, really too young to have been hired but too well-connected to be fired. And in the weeks before the Berlin Wall is to be built, he is called out in the middle of the night to a macabre murder scene within the Soviet war memorial in Treptower Park. As his investigation continues, multiple layers of life in East Berlin are revealed: the crisis created by the steady stream of men and women fleeing the East through the city of Berlin; the infighting and the power-grabs among the leaders of the Communist government; the fear engendered by the secret police, known as the Stasi; and the daily hardships and dreams of East Berliners who live a mere subway ride away from the West. And through it all, Ritter simply seeks the truth — about the murderer of his victim, and about his own feelings about his place in a Communist country in turmoil.
"Enjoy this fast paced, realistic cold war thriller set in East Germany by a master story teller. Wake knows how to make you part of the plot. You are THERE."
BOOK 2:
In the shadow of the wall
Why would one man risk everything to help a mere acquaintance escape from East Germany? Peter Ritter thought the Berlin Wall would stand for three months, tops. He thought the impracticalities of dividing such a big city would cause it to crumble of its own weight. If not that he thought the Americans would never tolerate such a division. But three months turned into six, and six months turned into ten, and the wall was only growing bigger and more fortified by the day. Most days, he had no regrets. He received a promotion at work, and his career was moving along well. His love life was active if not particularly serious. His lifestyle was among the best in the country — and if he had to do the occasional off-the-books favor for a member of the Central Committee who happened to be his ex-father-in-law, it was worth the trade-off. So why risk it all to assist a man he knew only from questioning him in prison regarding an old case? The question will haunt Ritter as his good deed turns into a life-or-death situation, not only for the man he helps but for Ritter himself.
Discover More Adventures
Embark on a literary journey with Richard Wake. Whether you’re a fan of espionage, crime, or historical fiction, my collection offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the latest releases and exclusive updates—subscribe now to stay informed about new books and special offers. Oh, and you’ll also be able to get some free e-books and audiobooks besides!