The Cardinal of the Kremlin Summary
"The Cardinal of the Kremlin" is an audiobook by Tom Clancy, published in 1988. It is the third book in the Jack Ryan series, following "The Hunt for Red October" and "Red Storm Rising." The audiobook is narrated by Michael Prichard and has a running time of 25 hours and 28 minutes.
The plot of "The Cardinal of the Kremlin" is centered around the race for military superiority between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The story follows Jack Ryan, who is now a senior analyst at the CIA, as he attempts to gather information on a Soviet high-ranking official known only as "Cardinal."
The story is set in both the United States and the Soviet Union, and Clancy's writing brings both countries to life. The characters are well-developed, and the audiobook's narration by Michael Prichard adds depth to each character's personality. Prichard's voice is clear and engaging, making it easy to follow the story and connect with the characters.
One of the strengths of "The Cardinal of the Kremlin" is the way Clancy blends technical details with political intrigue. The audiobook is packed with information on military technology and tactics, making it a treat for fans of military fiction. However, Clancy never forgets that the story is ultimately about people, and the political machinations of the characters are just as engaging as the technical details.
Another strength of the audiobook is the pacing. Despite its length, the story moves along at a brisk pace, keeping the listener engaged throughout. There are plenty of twists and turns, and the ending is satisfying, tying up all the loose ends in a satisfying manner.
Overall, "The Cardinal of the Kremlin" is a classic Cold War thriller. It's a well-written novel with engaging characters, a well-crafted plot, and plenty of technical details for military enthusiasts. Michael Prichard's narration adds an extra dimension to the story, making it a pleasure to listen to. If you enjoy military or political thrillers, you won't be disappointed with this audiobook.
