The Eitingons

"The Eitingons: A Twentieth-Century Story of Espionage, Psychoanalysis, and Family Secrets" by Mary-Kay Wilmers is a meticulously researched and compelling non-fiction work that unravels the intertwined lives of three remarkable men, all connected by blood and embroiled in the tumultuous events of the 20th century. This gripping narrative, published by Faber & Faber, delves into the shadowy world of Soviet espionage, the intellectual circles of psychoanalysis, and the high-stakes world of international trade. At the heart of the story lies Leonid Eitingon, a ruthless KGB killer utterly devoted to the Soviet regime. His life was one of constant movement and intrigue, from China in the 1920s to Spain during the Civil War. Most notably, he played a crucial role in the assassination of Leon Trotsky in Mexico, a deed commissioned directly by Stalin, who vowed Trotsky's safety a promise brutally broken. Wilmers masterfully portrays Eitingon's chilling dedication and the devastating impact of his actions. In stark contrast stands Max Eitingon, a prominent psychoanalyst, a close associate, friend, and protg of Sigmund Freud himself. A man of considerable wealth and shrouded in secrecy, Max's life took an unexpected turn when his friendship with a renowned Russian singer led to his implication in the mysterious abduction of a White Russian general in Paris in 1937. Wilmers explores the fascinating intersection of psychoanalysis, personal relationships, and international politics in Max's complex life. The third Eitingon brother, Motty, was a New York fur dealer who became the world's largest trader through his extensive connections with the Soviet Union. His life was marked by both prosperity and peril. Imprisoned by the Bolsheviks in his early years and later scrutinized by the FBI during the height of the Cold War paranoia, Motty's loyalties were constantly questioned. Was he a friend to all or an enemy to all? Wilmers expertly examines Motty's ambiguous role in the complex landscape of Cold War trade and suspicion. Mary-Kay Wilmers, drawing on twenty years of meticulous research, brings to light a family history of astonishing scope and originality. This book is not just a biography of three men; it is a sweeping historical account that illuminates some of the darkest corners of the 20th century. Through carefully pieced-together documents and insightful analysis, Wilmers paints a vivid picture of a family caught in the crosscurrents of history, revealing their personal dramas against the backdrop of revolution, war, and ideological conflict. "The Eitingons" is more than just a historical account; it's a compelling exploration of family, loyalty, and the choices individuals make in the face of extraordinary circumstances. It's a must-read for anyone interested in espionage, Soviet history, psychoanalysis, or the human cost of political upheaval. The book offers a unique perspective on the 20th century through the lens of a single, extraordinary family. Prepare to be captivated by this thrilling and insightful journey into the past. With 496 pages, this Main edition paperback, published in 2017, provides an engaging and meticulously researched account of a family history intertwined with the pivotal events of the 20th century.