The Tiger and the Bear by Philip Lazar

Overview

Debut author Philip Lazar crafts a gripping modern spy story centered around a mysterious document that foretells a dramatic succession scenario in Russia, setting off an international intrigue that feels alarmingly plausible in today's complex geopolitical landscape.

"Espionage fiction is at its best when it responds to current geopolitical events in new and interesting ways, and debut author Philip Lazar does just that with The Tiger and the Bear. It feels like a story that could easily happen."
— Crime Fiction Lover

[1]

Plot Introduction

The action unfolds in Washington, D.C., where Paul Girard, a Russian-speaking policy advisor and former journalist, receives a sensitive document from a junior congressional aide. The aide represents a freshman congresswoman with little influence, yet she urgently wants this intelligence to become public. The final page bears the signature of Oleg Makarov, Girard's old friend from his days reporting in the Soviet Far East. Seeking insight, Paul consults his wife Elise, who is versed in government investigations, and his friend Gunther, a leading Washington journalist. Together, they recognize the seismic potential of the report: it reveals a plan for the Russian Far East to break away from Moscow, a move that would send shockwaves through global affairs.[1]

Document's Impact and Dilemma

The group realizes the profound consequences if the report were true, with the potential to destabilize Russia and spark major conflict.

"No wonder it’s a secret report – such a move would destabilize the Russian government and throw a huge part of the world into turmoil. Russia could be expected to counter with force, and stopping the likely actions and reactions of world powers might be impossible." — Crime Fiction Lover

[1]

Torn between skepticism and concern, they debate the document's authenticity but agree it is too significant to ignore. Paul and Gunther, using journalistic instincts, begin to quietly investigate, but face the challenge of verifying the report without tipping off powerful interests or endangering themselves.[1]

The Search for Oleg

Paul and Elise pursue clues across Rome and the Russian Far East, determined to locate Oleg Makarov.
Meanwhile, separate chapters follow Oleg's desperate flight from Russia as he tries to stay ahead of authorities.

The story's momentum builds as the journalists struggle with increasing risks — from government surveillance to their own personal safety — never certain whom they can trust. The tension is heightened by other players, such as Guy Lynch, a former TV newsman who inadvertently draws the attention of U.S. intelligence agencies.[1]

Critical Reception

Critics praise the authenticity and suspense of Lazar’s debut.

"An intricately plotted tale set against the modern world of media and soft espionage. Startlingly realistic, brilliantly told… an ending that will shock you and leave you breathless." — I.S. Berry, Edgar Award-winning author

[3]

Settings and Atmosphere

The novel features vivid settings, spanning Washington, Rome, Thailand, Cambodia, and the Russian Far East, immersing readers in a globe-trotting chase.

Author

Philip Lazar, based in Washington, D.C., delivers a debut filled with compelling characters and urgent, high-stakes plotting.[3]

Conclusion

The Tiger and the Bear is recognized for its deft construction and unrelenting tension, making it an unmissable read for modern espionage fiction fans. It is a story that keeps readers questioning reality and eager to turn each page.

"Lazar has put this plot together so well that it is thrilling to read, the kind of ‘just one more chapter’ tale that will keep you up late at night." — Crime Fiction Lover

[1]

Author’s summary: Lazar’s novel delivers a tense and contemporary espionage thriller, where secrets about Russian succession thrust journalists into danger, forcing them to question truth, loyalty, and the future of global order.

Crime Fiction Lover — 2025-11-18