I enjoy historical mysteries and historical intrigue, so its no surprise that WWII era is a favorite. There are a good number of books set in this era, so creating characters and a premise that engages me is important. I read the first in this new series and was hooked. Today I'm reviewing the critical second book in the series. Let's see how it did.
Book 1) A Traitor in Whitehall (click here)
Copyright: October 2024 (Minotaur Books) 336 pgs
Series: 2nd in Evelyne Redfern Mysteries
Sensuality: mild
Mystery Sub-genre: Historical Cozy mystery, woman espionage
Main Character: Evelyne Redfern, newbie agent
Setting: WWII era, Sussex, England
Obtained Through: Library
Book Blurb: "Freshly graduated from a rigorous training program in all things spy craft, former typist Evelyne Redfern is eager for her first assignment as a field agent helping Britain win the war. However, when she learns her first task is performing a simple security test at Blackthorn Park, a requisitioned manor house in the sleepy Sussex countryside, she can’t help her initial disappointment. Making matters worse, her handler is to be David Poole, a fellow agent who manages to be both strait-laced and dashing in annoyingly equal measure. However, Evelyne soon realizes that Blackthorn Park is more than meets the eye, and an upcoming visit from Winston Churchill means that security at the secret weapons research and development facility is of the utmost importance.
When Evelyne discovers Blackthorn Park’s chief engineer dead in his office, her simple assignment becomes more complicated. Evelyne must use all of her—and David’s—detection skills to root out who is responsible and uncover layers of deception that could change the course of the war."
I love Evelyn (Ellie.) She's strong and fierce while being levelheaded, whip smart, and a touch sassy. She embodies the spirit of women during the war, stepping up and out of their traditional roles to serve their country. I really appreciate that Evelyn has close female friends that are in her corner.
David Poole is her handler, but feels more comfortable investigating by her side. This is a slow burn with chemistry but "it's complicated." I like David and think they are good together. I'm looking forward to how the relationship will develop.
The setting of Blackthorn Park gives a dash of intrigue. I enjoy getting to read about a country manor that was requisitioned for the war effort, which happened a good bit in England. It provides a small pool of suspects and is removed from the town enough to add a delicious isolated feel.
I zoomed through the book, devouring the story. The pacing was spot on with plenty of suspects and motives. The killer confrontation was thrilling and dangerous making a great resolution to the tale. The denouement introduces a tantalizing new development that I have no doubt will carry into the next book.
My Thoughts: I adore this series. Wonderfully developed characters that seem to be real. Well thought out intrigue with great period details and plenty of suspects to investigate. The writing style has a period feel and balanced action with setting and descriptions. This series is a pure delight to read.
Rating: Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list
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