Review: Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews

Dominika was well on her way to becoming a prima ballerina, when a broken foot promptly stomped on that idea. While she finds herself deciding what new path to explore in life, her father passes away. At his funeral, her uncle presents her with an option; work for the SVR. Become a spy.

Nate Nash is a recent CIA recruit earning his stripes in Russia, when his assignment goes awry. Facing the possibility of a career in tatters, he is sent to Helsinki to salvage his reputation and do some good.

What neither agent immediately knows is that each is the subject of the other’s investigation. Once they make this connection, however, the Game truly begins. Oh my, the twists.

Red Sparrow gets off to a somewhat slow start, but in this case it’s absolutely worth it. The story is so intricate and the plot so involved that it’s absolutely necessary to warm up before we go full steam ahead. The word ‘complexity’ doesn’t do this book justice – it’s an entire glorious world on its own.

It’s much more than just a spy novel – it is drama, intrigue, mystery, politics, current affairs and love all wrapped up into a sexy narrative that’s as immersive as it is impressive. Jason Matthews is a craftsman – his narrative is rich in detail, filled with exceptional language and brilliant descriptions. 

This book will have you running through every emotion possible, but you’ll enjoy the feeling. You’re going to need several cups of coffee, because I guarantee you’ll be up late into the night reading. And if that wasn’t enough, you’ll end as I did; frantically wanting to get your hands on the next book in the series. This one is a kicker.

Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews is published by Simon & Schuster, and is available in South Africa from Jonathan Ball Publishers.