Skating is an arcane world, and this series is very much aimed at those who have already been initiated into its mysteries. There are some fine, teasing plots to enjoy but the skating jargon went right over my head, as I know only as much about the subject as could be inscribed upon a pin's head. But Alina Adams certainly knows her stuff (being a real-life TV researcher just like her heroine) and this shows, always a good thing. A glossary of terms might help the layperson understand more, and might even win a few converts to this perennially popular sport. There is some fine satire in here, and Alina Adams is adept at portraying typical skating types and typical skating fans. Perhaps what I enjoyed the most here was the delineation of modern Russia, and the vast difference between the country today and how it was back when Igor defected to the US. Also highlighted are the differences between relations between Russia and America, and the whole (plus the fairly intricate plot) makes for a good tale to please a skating fan who enjoys a good whodunit too.