The Good Assassin: How a Mossad Agent and a Band of Survivors Hunted Down the Butcher of Latvia

Uncover the gripping true story of vengeance and justice with Stephan Talty's "The Good Assassin: How a Mossad Agent and a Band of Survivors Hunted Down the Butcher of Latvia." This pulse-pounding narrative, the inspiration behind the hit podcast "Hunting the Butcher," plunges you into the heart of a daring Mossad operation to bring one of World War II's most notorious war criminals to account. Before the horrors of the Holocaust, Herbert Cukurs was a national hero in Latvia, celebrated as the "Charles Lindbergh" of his country for his pioneering aviation feats. But his legacy was irrevocably stained as he transformed into the "Butcher of Latvia," a man responsible for the brutal murders of approximately thirty thousand Jews. In the mid-1960s, with the looming expiration of statutes of limitations on Nazi war crimes, the clock was ticking. If Cukurs wasn't brought to justice soon, he might escape accountability forever. Enter Jacob Medad, a brilliant but unconventional Mossad agent known for his role in the capture of Adolf Eichmann. Medad understood the urgency of the situation. He embarked on a perilous mission to South America, specifically Brazil, where Cukurs had sought refuge. Disguised and operating undercover, Medad meticulously infiltrated Cukurs's life, gaining his trust and friendship. The psychological tension is palpable as Talty masterfully recreates the delicate dance between hunter and hunted. Imagine the weight of Medad's deception, knowing the monstrous crimes his new "friend" had committed. "The Good Assassin" is more than just a thrilling spy story; it's a powerful exploration of justice, memory, and the long shadow of the Holocaust. Talty delves into the personal stories of Holocaust survivors who were instrumental in identifying and tracking Cukurs, highlighting their unwavering determination to see justice served. These are not just names in history books; they are real people driven by the pain of loss and the fierce desire to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again. Stephan Talty, acclaimed author of "Agent Garbo" and "A Captain's Duty," brings his signature blend of meticulous research and gripping storytelling to this remarkable tale. He paints a vivid picture of the political climate of the 1960s, where the wounds of World War II were still raw, and the world grappled with the complexities of bringing Nazi war criminals to justice. He masterfully balances the tension of the Mossad's operation with the larger historical context, providing a nuanced and thought-provoking account. This Mariner Books paperback edition, at 336 pages, offers a captivating reading experience. Weighing in at just under 300 grams, it's the perfect size for carrying and reading on the go. Published in 2021, "The Good Assassin" is a timely and relevant reminder of the importance of remembering the past and holding perpetrators of evil accountable. Whether you're a fan of true crime, espionage thrillers, or historical accounts, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Discover the untold story of a courageous Mossad agent and a band of survivors who risked everything to bring the Butcher of Latvia to justice. A must-read for anyone interested in World War II history, Jewish history, or the intricacies of international espionage.