The Spy Who Vanished

A Thrilling Three-Part Serial

By: Alma Katsu

Narrated by: Daniel Henning

In the midst of Putin’s war on Ukraine, his most famous spy, Yuri Kozlov—known as the Russian James Bond—is among those who defect to the United States in protest. But Yuri’s intentions are anything but clear, and he’ll be forced to decide where his loyalty truly lies before his luck runs out.

The Vanishing Man

A renowned spy’s reputation is put to the test when he becomes an ally to his former enemy in the first installment of Yuri Kozlov’s trilogy from Alma Katsu, the award-winning author of Red Widow.

Yuri Kozlov is well known as the “Russian James Bond.” So when he defects to the United States during Putin’s war on Ukraine, suspicions arise around his loyalties. To prove he’s turned over a new leaf, he’ll have to convince his handlers—and the CIA’s rigorous debriefing and analysis—that his intentions are as honorable as he claims.

On Enemy Ground

In the follow-up to award-winning author Alma Katsu’s The Vanishing Man, Russian spy turned informant Yuri Kozlov struggles with his roots, his relationships, and the true nature of his operation.

Yuri’s time at the CIA safehouse is going well. He’s pacified his handlers, going so far as to call one of them a friend. But even as he settles, Yuri struggles with why he came to America in the first place. He traces his present situation back to the mission for Russia that made his name—and that may have condemned his soul.

Shaken, Not Stirred

Acclaimed author Alma Katsu presents the final chapter of Yuri Kozlov’s journey with a string of doubts, revelations, and the full truth of who he is and the man this mission has made him.

Seemingly satisfied with Yuri’s performance, the CIA takes him to Jamaica for a meeting with high-level politicians. But this party has far more in store than rubbing elbows with America’s elite. As his own and others’ secrets are revealed, Yuri must decide once and for all where his loyalty lies and whether it’s worth killing—or dying—for.

©2024 Alma Katsu. (P)2024 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

“Narrator Daniel Henning breathes life into these three stories focused on Yuri Kozlov, ‘Russia's most famous spy.’… As his handlers attempt to get information and parade him around with politicians and celebrities, listeners will find themselves invested in learning the truth about Kozlov and the motivation behind his actions. Henning expertly portrays Kozlov's arrogance and smugness while also showcasing how he changes in the U.S.… This quick listen encompassing all three parts of the trilogy is engaging and enjoyable.” —AudioFile Magazine

Sadly, a disappointment

I had read Alma Katsu's Red Widow books so was looking forward to another spy story. Sadly, this was a big disappointment. By the end I didn't care about a single characte, the plot was really 'meh' and I thought there were several scenes that strained credulity. And the narration just didn't bring any gravitas to the already mid material. It just wasn't very good and I doubt I'll ever give it a second thought (but I hope she writes more Red Widow novels and they are as good as the first two).

Very Disappointing

I expected a better story from someone with the background of the author. I had trouble getting through this while I was hoping something later in the book would rescue the time given to complete listening to it. Several times I found myself thinking this was a Harlequin Romance rather than a novel about intelligence. If you are considering giving this a listen, you have been duly warned. Sorry

Great twist on typical West vs. East spy thrillers

Excellent narrator! I loved the voicing and accents of Russian characters and their Western adversaries.