The Kremlin’s Candidate: A Novel

The Kremlin’s Candidate is the final entry in Jason Matthew’s Red Sparrow trilogy. The book starts out in 2005, when Russian intelligence operative Dominica Egorova seduces US Navy Lieutenant Audrey Rowland so she can be recruited into giving all of America’s juiciest military secrets to the Russians. Fast forward to the present day, and Dominika is a double agent herself, recruited by her CIA handler and lover, Nate Nash. Dominika has a unique gift: she is a synesthete, which means she can read other people through colorful auras that surround them. Obviously, she puts her ability to use in her role as a “honeytrap.” The Russians have a plan of their own, however. Audrey Nash, who was recruited by Dominika and is now working as a double agent, is now ready for her role as CIA director. However, to achieve their goal, the Russians must eliminate the current CIA director in order to clear the way for Audrey Nash. As the CIA becomes aware of a mole in its ranks, the real cat-and-mouse game begins.

Just like the previous two books, The Kremlin’s Candidate is an entertaining, albeit a bit slow, read. Although there isn’t much action as compared to Brad Thor’s or Vince Flynn’s novels, this is made up with superb character development. The author, himself a CIA officer, lends the story a plausible feel, which is also a strong suit of the book.

If you enjoy Frederick Forsyth and John Le Carre, then you will certainly like Jason Matthew’s Red Sparrow trilogy.