Michael Idov is a novelist, director, and screenwriter. A Latvian-born American raised in Riga under Soviet occupation, he moved to New York after graduating from the University of Michigan. Michael's writing career began at New York magazine, where his features won three National Magazine Awards, and he has served as the editor-in-chief of GQ Russia. He is also the author of The Collaborators, Ground Up, and Dressed Up for a Riot. Michael has worked on numerous film and TV projects, including Londongrad, Deutschland 83, Leto, and The Humorist. He and his wife and screenwriting partner, Lily, divide their time between Los Angeles, Berlin, and Portugal.

"[The Cormorant Hunt] left me breathless with its nimble plot work and sheer storytelling audacity. . . . As the plot careens along, Idov embellishes it with gorgeous descriptions. . . . My expectations for Idov's next book are very high." --Sarah Weinman, The New York Times

"This is spy fiction without padding. No fluff, no wasted space, just tight storytelling and an attention to detail that brings humanity to the chaos of espionage. And just when you think you understand where it is all heading, the ending proves otherwise. Hold your breath, clear your schedule, and be prepared to want the next installment immediately. This series continues to deliver, and I am fully locked in." --Best Thriller Books

"The multiple mysteries . . . will keep readers intrigued." --Booklist

"The pacing is breakneck, but the plot remains eminently believable. The characters are well drawn." --Bookpage

"Spy fiction at its headiest and most addictive. . . there's plenty of action and intrigue . . . Idov offers real insight into the self-protective games his characters play." --Kirkus (starred review)

Publisher: Scribner Book Company

Pub date: 2026-01-27

Length: 272 pages