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The Riddle of the Trees

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Pub Date 10 Mar 2026 | Archive Date 10 Mar 2026


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Description

At the same time that a physicist is murdered in a Belarusian forest by a KGB agent, American Jack Miller boards a flight to Eastern Europe, where he hopes to learn what caused an enduring rift between his Holocaust-surviving father and grandfather. All the while, he is unaware that his life will soon be entwined with that of the dead man.  

In Minsk, Jack quickly falls for Anna, his beautiful Belarusian guide, and learns the gnawing fear of living in a police state. Spurred by revelations about his family, Jack follows Anna on a reckless mission into the Belaveskaya Forest, where they witness events that could change the course of history. 

With the KGB nipping at his heels and summoning courage he never knew he had, Jack agrees to smuggle the newfound information across the border. But, on the sand dunes of the Curonian Spit, he must make a choice: save the woman he loves or save the world from disaster . . .

At the same time that a physicist is murdered in a Belarusian forest by a KGB agent, American Jack Miller boards a flight to Eastern Europe, where he hopes to learn what caused an enduring rift...


A Note From the Publisher

Marc S. Perlman lives in New York City with his wife and son. He works as a lawyer and does the bulk of his writing after his son agrees to go to bed. A graduate of Bowdoin College and Cardozo Law School, Marc has had a lifelong interest in history and has traveled extensively in Eastern Europe. He conceived of The Riddle of the Trees several years ago while biking through the Belavezskaya Forest from Poland to Belarus. It's his first novel.

Marc S. Perlman lives in New York City with his wife and son. He works as a lawyer and does the bulk of his writing after his son agrees to go to bed. A graduate of Bowdoin College and Cardozo Law...


Available Editions

EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9798897470402
PRICE $19.95 (USD)
PAGES 302

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Average rating from 4 members


Featured Reviews

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An outstanding thriller that puts you at the heart of the action! An American researching his family's Jewish roots in Eastern Europe finds himself entangled in events he doesn't think he will ever get out of.

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*A GRIPPING MYSTERY: THE RIDDLE OF THE TREES BY MARC S. PERLMAN*

Marc S. Perlman's "The Riddle of the Trees" is a captivating mystery that will keep you guessing until the end 🌳. The story follows a complex and nuanced protagonist as they navigate a web of secrets and lies in a small town.

Perlman's writing is immersive and engaging, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with motivations that are both believable and intriguing.

The plot is expertly crafted, with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The themes of identity, community, and the power of nature are woven throughout the narrative, adding depth and complexity.

The pacing is well-managed, with a steady build-up of tension that culminates in a satisfying conclusion. If you're looking for a book that will keep you engaged and guessing, look no further!

Overall, *"The Riddle of the Trees" is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of mystery novels*. 👍

Rating: 5/5 stars

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Thank you NetGalley and Köehler Books for the ARC. This book is a fast-moving blend of spy thriller and personal journey. The Cold War setting is tense from the start, especially with the murder in the forest and the constant sense that someone is always watching. Overall, it’s an engaging, cinematic read that mixes history, suspense, and emotion.

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