Smoke

by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev

"Smoke" by Ivan Turgenev is a novel published in 1867 that interweaves a passionate love affair with biting social criticism. Set in the German resort town of Baden-Baden, the story follows young Grigory Litvinov, who arrives to meet his fiancée but encounters a mysterious woman from his past. As old feelings resurface, Turgenev satirizes Russian society through sharp portrayals of both conservative aristocrats and radical Slavophiles, offering his vision of Russia's future through pointed political commentary.