Review: The Candidate's Daughter - Catherine Lea

Review : The Candidate's Daughter - Catherine Lea - May 2013

New Zealand author Catherine Lea’s The Candidate’s Daughter is a gripping thriller that not only delivers high-stakes tension but also provides a moving portrayal of disability representation. Set against a backdrop of crime, politics, and betrayal, the novel weaves an intense and emotional story that keeps readers hooked until the very last page.

The novel centers around Kelsey Money, a 22-year-old car thief who gets entangled in a kidnapping gone terribly wrong. What initially seems like a straightforward ransom plan quickly unravels when Kelsey realizes she’s been double-crossed. Now, not only is she being framed for murder, but six-year-old Holly McClaine—who has Down syndrome—is in grave danger. With only 24 hours to save the girl, Kelsey must fight against impossible odds to bring her home safely.

At the heart of this novel is the complex dynamic between Kelsey and Holly. Despite being one of the so-called ‘kidnappers,’ Kelsey forms a profound bond with the child. Her protectiveness over Holly goes beyond obligation—she genuinely cares for her in a way that even Holly’s own parents seem to struggle with. This aspect of the novel is particularly compelling; in the short time they are together, Kelsey arguably loves and understands Holly more than her own mother does. It is this unexpected yet deeply touching connection that elevates the novel beyond a standard thriller.

Holly’s mother, Elizabeth McClaine, is another fascinating character. She has spent much of her daughter’s life at a distance, leaving Holly in the care of a nanny due to post-natal depression. However, when Holly is kidnapped, Elizabeth’s maternal instincts kick in, and she is forced to confront not only the horrors of the present but also her past shortcomings as a mother. Her desperate determination to save Holly and rectify her mistakes adds an emotional depth to the narrative.

Overall, The Candidate’s Daughter is a thrilling, emotionally charged novel that masterfully blends crime, drama, and heartfelt character development. 

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aZhsxR