Child 44 by Tom Rob Smith (2008)

From the harrowing opening pages, through the surprising ending, the detective story (as "inspired" by Andrei Chikatilo's crimes) is an engulfing read. But what makes this an outstanding book, is the recreation of the all permeating fear as the essence of the Stalinist state terror. If you happen to think, that a big and strong government is good for the citizenry, this book might offer some discussion topics.