This is the second book in the Sean Richardson series, but not having read the first book I found that it worked very well as a standalone novel, with enough backstory elements to ground you in what had already happened without losing the flow of this story.
The Kompromat Kill’s greatest strength is its sheer plausibility. Not only stemming from the fact that it is almost worryingly on point with what we see in the world today but because of the author’s own experience. There is a knowledge that shines through on every page in the level of detail, modern references and sheer realism, without being overwhelming. The technical details expertly balanced with action, characters and the twists and turns of a spy thriller that is uncompromising on all levels.
It took me a little while to get into the narrative and connect with the characters, but that might have been because I hadn’t read the first book. However, once the book gripped me it didn’t let go, and I found myself unable to pull away as events developed fast-paced, with question upon question rising as twists and turns came at you rapidly, but it was never too fast, and I felt that all the threads of the stories were brought together brilliantly at the end.
Sean is an interesting and believable main character, who doesn’t fall into the ‘James Bond’ stereotype. He’s flawed and complicated, and very human. The team around him, are well-developed and individual, and each brings something different to the narrative.
An excellent read, and one that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys spy thrillers and is looking for that detail, and realism that made this book stand out.