Cruz’s 11 Arkady Renko books, which deepen and darken with feeling as they go, are a testament to courage and a reminder of mortality.

Martin Cruz Smith, the best-selling mystery novelist who engaged readers for decades with “Gorky Park” and other thrillers ...

Martin Cruz Smith, the best-selling mystery novelist who engaged readers for decades with “Gorky Park” and other thrillers ...

Martin Cruz Smith, author of such bestsellers as "Gorky Park" and "Polar Star," died on July 11, 2025, at age 82. In this ...

Martin Cruz Smith, the beloved mystery writer known for his captivating tales featuring Moscow investigator Arkady Renko, ...

He wrote more than 30 novels, including an acclaimed series about Russian detective Arkady Renko. The first volume, “Gorky ...

David Kaffinetti, who was also known as David Kaff, played keyboardist Viv Savage in “This Is Spinal Tap” film.

NEW YORK — Martin Cruz Smith, the best-selling mystery novelist who engaged readers for decades with “Gorky Park” and other thrillers featuring Moscow investigator Arkady Renko, has died at age 82.