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Heroines of WWII #11
The Starlet Spy
Hollywood Star Turns Spy
In 1943, Movie producer Henrik Zoltan approaches Amelie Blake under the guise of offering the Hollywood star a leading part in his upcoming film, but he has a more meaningful role in mind. Amelie’s homeland of Sweden declared neutrality in the war, but Stockholm has become the ‘Casablanca of the North.’ When top-secret atomic research goes missing in Sweden, the Allied forces scramble to recover the files before they fall into Nazi hands.
The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needs someone who’s subtle enough to spy on the Swedish elite without triggering suspicion. Who better than the “all beauty, no brains” Scandinavian starlet? Fluent in three languages and possessing a brilliant memory, Amelie loathes being labeled witless but uses the misconception as her disguise. She’s tasked with searching for the crucial files, but Finn Ristaffason keeps getting in her way. Is the charming shipping magnate after the missing research? Or does he have other reasons for showing up at her every turn?
With the Gestapo on her heels, Amelie must rely on her smarts in addition to her acting skills to survive a world of deadly spies and counterspies.
In 1943, Movie producer Henrik Zoltan approaches Amelie Blake under the guise of offering the Hollywood star a leading part in his upcoming film, but he has a more meaningful role in mind. Amelie’s homeland of Sweden declared neutrality in the war, but Stockholm has become the ‘Casablanca of the North.’ When top-secret atomic research goes missing in Sweden, the Allied forces scramble to recover the files before they fall into Nazi hands.
The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needs someone who’s subtle enough to spy on the Swedish elite without triggering suspicion. Who better than the “all beauty, no brains” Scandinavian starlet? Fluent in three languages and possessing a brilliant memory, Amelie loathes being labeled witless but uses the misconception as her disguise. She’s tasked with searching for the crucial files, but Finn Ristaffason keeps getting in her way. Is the charming shipping magnate after the missing research? Or does he have other reasons for showing up at her every turn?
With the Gestapo on her heels, Amelie must rely on her smarts in addition to her acting skills to survive a world of deadly spies and counterspies.
400 pages, Library Binding
First published August 1, 2023
19 people are currently reading
2364 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Scott McDaniel
13 books639 followersRachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author who writes historical and contemporary romance with heart, mystery, and humor. When she’s not dreaming up swoony heroes or happily-ever-afters, you can find her chasing adventures in Ohio with her husband, two amazing kids, and an endless supply of chocolate. Rachel loves hiking trails almost as much as plot twists and is always on the hunt for the next great story … or snack. Connect with her at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com or on your favorite social media platform!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
August 10, 2023
Five reasons I am giving this one all the stars:
🌟 Amelie Blake is a lovable character and she has some skills
🌟 The Swedish setting is not often used for WWII fiction
🌟 Prayer is acknowledged as well as the plans God has for his children
🌟 The unexpected twists and turns of espionage
🌟 All the notes on the historical facts inserted into the plot.
While this is my first time reading a book by this author, it will not be my last.
🌟 Amelie Blake is a lovable character and she has some skills
🌟 The Swedish setting is not often used for WWII fiction
🌟 Prayer is acknowledged as well as the plans God has for his children
🌟 The unexpected twists and turns of espionage
🌟 All the notes on the historical facts inserted into the plot.
While this is my first time reading a book by this author, it will not be my last.
July 22, 2023
This is the first book that I have read by the author, but I definitely will explore her other books. This story pulled me in and was hard to put down. A Hollywood star, Amelie Blake, returns to her home country of Sweden during WWII to spy for the OSS and the Allied cause. She was to trust no one but was given a code name and code names of those she could trust. One man, in particular, she was to watch but the main goal was to find a briefcase holding critical documents concerning atomic energy that had been lost, taken, or misplaced. If you want to read a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense, mystery, danger, intrigue, stressful situations, romance, all sprinkled with faith, during wartime, this is the book to read. The characters are likable and realistic and the settings are well described. The book has tons of historical facts interspersed in the story. I highly recommend this one.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
October 10, 2023
Yet again, another tremendous book by Rachel....I didn't want to put this down at all as I was totally swept up in and fascinated. Such a pleasure to read, no tedious moments whatsoever. I thought I had figured out one of the traitors but not quite so that is a good thing!....This was enjoyable with many spiritual references throughout. I still learned more about various roles held throughout the war not only by individuals but by countries claiming neutrality. Being set in Sweden, it was a different twist as they did help provide a safe refuge for around 9,000 Danish Jews who were helped to escape from the Nazis who invaded their country...However they did open their railway lines for the Germans to be able to travel into Norway sadly. They also traded iron ore with Germany through shipping lines which supplies them and help prolong the war. Other countries helped and hindered unfortunately as well with IBM providing the means to round up names of Jewish citizens for slaughter..... Profit ahead of saving lives as has happened and still happens with history repeating itself as usual and always does. The horrific treatment of the Jewish tears my heart as always and with Jewish being attacked in another massacre , it was sometimes difficult to keep focused......This is now a favourite as well and is one I would definitely recommend for anyone.
July 1, 2024
3.5 stars, personally ✨ I really enjoyed this book but will be marking it for Older Girls only on BFCG because of some comments/suggestions and a couple longer kissing scenes. I really enjoyed the plot and how it felt like an old black and white movie though!
About this book:
“In 1943, Movie producer Henrik Zoltan approaches Amelie Blake under the guise of offering the Hollywood star a leading part in his upcoming film, but he has a more meaningful role in mind. Amelie’s homeland of Sweden declared neutrality in the war, but Stockholm has become the ‘Casablanca of the North.’ When top-secret atomic research goes missing in Sweden, the Allied forces scramble to recover the files before they fall into Nazi hands.
The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needs someone who’s subtle enough to spy on the Swedish elite without triggering suspicion. Who better than the “all beauty, no brains” Scandinavian starlet? Fluent in three languages and possessing a brilliant memory, Amelie loathes being labeled witless but uses the misconception as her disguise. She’s tasked with searching for the crucial files, but Finn Ristaffason keeps getting in her way. Is the charming shipping magnate after the missing research? Or does he have other reasons for showing up at her every turn?
With the Gestapo on her heels, Amelie must rely on her smarts in addition to her acting skills to survive a world of deadly spies and counterspies.”
Series: Part of the series “Heroines of WWII”, but is not connected to any other book.
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned & remembered; Prayers & Thanking God; A few talks about God & Esther; 'H's are capital when referring to God; Someone references Esther when talking about Amelie becoming a spy; Amelie prays with someone who is dying; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of churches & a church group; Mentions of Christians, Jews, Jews being God’s chosen people; A mention of Heaven; A mention of someone sounding like a preacher (for a certain comment);
*Note: Mentions of evil (with the war); Mentions of folklore and superstitions from Greek, Norse, and Scandinavian mythology such as the legend of Näck, a sea monster (which can be destroyed with an iron cross being thrown at it) & the northern lights being believed to be a bridge between Asgard (where the gods are) and Earth.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘shut up’, four forms of ‘stupid’, six forms of ‘dumb’, and six ‘idiot’s; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Fighting, Going into a building on fire, Going to a nightclub for the mission, Being held at gunpoint and knife-point, Being threatened, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Seeing someone hit by a car, dying, & the person’s final moments (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Amelie thinks that she gets paid to deceive because she’s an actress, but feels guilt at times for lying and breaking into a man’s office when doing her mission; Set during & all about many mentions of World War II, Nazis, deaths, fighting, injuries, weapons, atomic bombs, enemies, smuggling Jews into another countries, the evil involved in this war, & those siding with evil for money/greed; Mentions of someone being hit by a car (murder), someone being stabbed (attempted murder), murderers, a death, fires, explosions, a ship sinking, injuries, blood/bleeding, (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths of loved ones & grief; Mentions of a dying parent (a cover story); Mentions of a woman’s first husband having an accident and found dead & her second disappearing (which makes some believe that she got rid of them both); Mentions of a hit being ordered on a man; Mentions of being held at gunpoint & fights (in films); Mentions of Amelie being taught self-defense & how to harm others (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a man missing part of his pinkie (assumed because of work with machinery); Mentions of a man challenging another to a fight & looking forward to “breaking” the man’s face; Mentions of thieves, thefts, stealing, & stolen items (including the Nazis raiding Jewish communities and stealing their items); Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, social drinking at dinners/parties, drunks, & getting sober; Mentions of cigars, cigarettes, & smoking (many side characters smoke); Mentions of nightclubs; Mentions of lies, lying, liars, deception, & guilt from those; Mentions of rumors, gossips, & eavesdropping; Mentions of hatred; A few mentions of Amelie thinking of all the ways she could die in this mission (no details); A few mentions of a pen that shoots cyanide (that can melt someone’s skin off & is used as a threat); A few mentions of possible kidnappings; A couple mentions of a miscarriage being blamed on the mother being exposed to potent chemicals & her grief/pain; A couple mentions of the deaths of a man’s parents on the Titanic; A couple mentions of the death of a man after injuries from a barroom brawl; A couple mentions of poison that can cause instant death (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of blackouts; A couple mentions of a man who doesn’t care for his stepchildren because they are another man’s children; A couple mentions of multiple divorces; A mention of embezzlement; A mention of a man threating to murder someone (who he thinks is having an affair with his wife); A mention of throwing up;
*Note: Amelie wishes that just once she could play the leading lady who helps the hero or even defended herself from the get-go instead of being a horrified spectator; Amelie doesn’t want to imagine marrying anyone; Amelie thinks negatively of someone thinking that the man believes him to be superior to those who have less money than him; Someone makes a comment about not trusting foreigners; Mentions of car brands; Mentions of actors, actresses, movies, singers, & songs from this time period (Carole Lombard, Bob Hope, Leslie Howard, Cary Grant, W.C. Fields, Lana Turner, Rita Hayworth, Ginger Rogers, Clark Gable, Walter Pidgeon, Jean Harlow, Katharine Hepburn, Greta Garbo, Gone with the Wind, Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, & Rosita Serrano); A few mentions of Oscars & Academy Awards; A mention of an Agatha Christie novel.
Sexual Content- an accident lip touch, a wrist kiss, a cheek kiss, three forehead kisses, an almost kiss, a not-detailed (movie/acting) kiss, five barely-above-not-detailed kisses, two border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kisses, two semi-detailed kisses, and three detailed kisses; Remembering kisses & Wanting to kiss (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Accidental Cuddling, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth, Shivers, Nearness, Smelling (including some in a movie/acting); Blushes; Noticing & Staring (including a man being bare chested and his muscles, up to semi-detailed); Amelie is to play as the “blond bimbo” on her mission (which is what she typically plays in movies) and tells those in charge that she won’t be a femme fatale and will not use her body in a “compromising way” or seduce anyone; *Spoiler* ; Amelie makes a couple of comments that either come out wrong or could be taken sexual (such as saying it’s her job to study a man’s body and then correct to meaning body language & when a man says he’d like to see more of her, she comments that no one sees more of her than what she’s currently wearing); Amelie is concerned that a man may want an indecent favor in return; Amelie adjusts her robe when in front of a man because she doesn’t want to give the impression that she’s after a romantic interlude & has morals (despite what the magazines print about her) and does not want to give the idea of a temptress; Amelie watches two people to see if they are having a secret relationship (affair), but notices nothing between them (some others believe they are); Someone makes a comment about assuming Amelie is there for a romantic liaison with a man; Amelie cautions a man that if he takes liberties with her and kisses her, she won’t be responsible for her actions towards him; The love interest kisses Amelie and says that he’ll be sleeping elsewhere because the temptation of kissing her more; A man (not the love interest) nuzzles Amelie & says he will “take whatever [he] wants from her” (nothing happens past that comment); Men flirt with, leer at, catcall, & say a couple vulgar slurs and propositions about Amelie (none of the slurs are written out); A man asks Amelie if another man has kept his paws off of her because “you have to watch the quiet ones”; A ‘bimbo’ is said; Mentions of men getting young women pregnant after “dallying” with them and then abandoning them, illegitimate children, & scandals; Mentions of rumors and gossip about affairs, hot romances, romantic liaisons, & scandals (none which are true); Mentions of attractive men & women throwing themselves at them (including one trying to kiss a man); Mentions of men staring at Amelie, their roaming eyes, forgetting their “manners” when around her, & some “pushy” fans; Mentions of ladies’ men & flirting; Mentions of jealousy & a man hitting another for believing his stole his girl; A couple mentions of kisses in films; A couple mentions of a man staring at Amelie’s lips; A couple mentions of sultry smiles (including a director telling Amelie to give one); A couple mentions of “taxi dancers” (where men would pay a dime for a dance with a girl); A couple mentions of crushes; A couple mentions of a young Amelie consuming numerous love stories, having a head “full of romantic delusions”, & wanting to gain approve from a young man (which she now realizes was damaging and that “value was not a trophy to be won from other people’s acceptance”); A mention of it being scandalous if Amelie checks into a hotel with a man (even if they book separate rooms); A mention of a man looking at Amelie with “masculine appreciation”; A mention of mythology legend that could morph into a handsome man and entice women to the ocean’s edge; A mention of a woman using her “charms” to get onboard a ship; A mention of a ladies’ man trying to skirt angry fathers; A mention of a father sending away an apprentice that his daughter was in love with; Love, attraction, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: When having to climb up or down something, Amelie has to hike her skirt up in a somewhat “scandalous” fashion, toss her stockings down to a man (who blushes), & warns him that he better not see anything so he says he’ll keep his gave on her higher portions (she threats his “lower portions” with a kick if he doesn’t); Amelie kicks a man in his groin (self-defense); Mentions of men valuing women for what they could give to them (such as their looks/appearance and fame); A couple mentions of a book about the mating principles of dragonflies (including Amelie commenting that who would have guessed that there was so much information on this subject by the size of the book); A mention of a dress hugging Amelie’s curves.
-Amelie Blake, age 26
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1943 (Final Chapter in 1945)
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
Put spy in a title and I’m curious to know more, what can I say?
I was taken aback that this book was written in first person, but I ended up really liking that element. It made the book feel like one of those old movies with the main character narrating what’s happening which really added to the 1940s feel of this story. She acts as an airhead and it was quite satisfying.
I think it’s a micro trope, but I always find it interesting that when the main character is a spy and don’t know if they can trust their love interest. I really like that element. One thing I would have liked more of in this book would have been an obvious note that Finn was Christian as well. We saw a couple glimpses, but I would have liked the faith content to take a bit more of center stage at times.
This is the third book I’ve read in the series and the third one I’ve really enjoyed. I’m really enjoying that so far while they are either stateside or abroad (this being my first abroad setting one) and it’s all about the war, they’re not horribly sad with all the details of the Jews being persecuted, fighting and deaths details, and such things that are very common in World War II books. It doesn't feel as heavy as most.
I wish I could’ve given this book a four-star, but because of a couple comments here and there, a few suggestions, and then a few of long kissing scenes, I didn’t care for those parts and it affects the ratings. If an older girl has been exposed to more things in books (such as secular books), this book probably would be just fine, but I have to note these things and that I would mark it for older girls, at least, for sure.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
About this book:
“In 1943, Movie producer Henrik Zoltan approaches Amelie Blake under the guise of offering the Hollywood star a leading part in his upcoming film, but he has a more meaningful role in mind. Amelie’s homeland of Sweden declared neutrality in the war, but Stockholm has become the ‘Casablanca of the North.’ When top-secret atomic research goes missing in Sweden, the Allied forces scramble to recover the files before they fall into Nazi hands.
The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needs someone who’s subtle enough to spy on the Swedish elite without triggering suspicion. Who better than the “all beauty, no brains” Scandinavian starlet? Fluent in three languages and possessing a brilliant memory, Amelie loathes being labeled witless but uses the misconception as her disguise. She’s tasked with searching for the crucial files, but Finn Ristaffason keeps getting in her way. Is the charming shipping magnate after the missing research? Or does he have other reasons for showing up at her every turn?
With the Gestapo on her heels, Amelie must rely on her smarts in addition to her acting skills to survive a world of deadly spies and counterspies.”
Series: Part of the series “Heroines of WWII”, but is not connected to any other book.
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned & remembered; Prayers & Thanking God; A few talks about God & Esther; 'H's are capital when referring to God; Someone references Esther when talking about Amelie becoming a spy; Amelie prays with someone who is dying; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of churches & a church group; Mentions of Christians, Jews, Jews being God’s chosen people; A mention of Heaven; A mention of someone sounding like a preacher (for a certain comment);
*Note: Mentions of evil (with the war); Mentions of folklore and superstitions from Greek, Norse, and Scandinavian mythology such as the legend of Näck, a sea monster (which can be destroyed with an iron cross being thrown at it) & the northern lights being believed to be a bridge between Asgard (where the gods are) and Earth.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘shut up’, four forms of ‘stupid’, six forms of ‘dumb’, and six ‘idiot’s; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Fighting, Going into a building on fire, Going to a nightclub for the mission, Being held at gunpoint and knife-point, Being threatened, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Seeing someone hit by a car, dying, & the person’s final moments (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Amelie thinks that she gets paid to deceive because she’s an actress, but feels guilt at times for lying and breaking into a man’s office when doing her mission; Set during & all about many mentions of World War II, Nazis, deaths, fighting, injuries, weapons, atomic bombs, enemies, smuggling Jews into another countries, the evil involved in this war, & those siding with evil for money/greed; Mentions of someone being hit by a car (murder), someone being stabbed (attempted murder), murderers, a death, fires, explosions, a ship sinking, injuries, blood/bleeding, (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths of loved ones & grief; Mentions of a dying parent (a cover story); Mentions of a woman’s first husband having an accident and found dead & her second disappearing (which makes some believe that she got rid of them both); Mentions of a hit being ordered on a man; Mentions of being held at gunpoint & fights (in films); Mentions of Amelie being taught self-defense & how to harm others (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a man missing part of his pinkie (assumed because of work with machinery); Mentions of a man challenging another to a fight & looking forward to “breaking” the man’s face; Mentions of thieves, thefts, stealing, & stolen items (including the Nazis raiding Jewish communities and stealing their items); Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, social drinking at dinners/parties, drunks, & getting sober; Mentions of cigars, cigarettes, & smoking (many side characters smoke); Mentions of nightclubs; Mentions of lies, lying, liars, deception, & guilt from those; Mentions of rumors, gossips, & eavesdropping; Mentions of hatred; A few mentions of Amelie thinking of all the ways she could die in this mission (no details); A few mentions of a pen that shoots cyanide (that can melt someone’s skin off & is used as a threat); A few mentions of possible kidnappings; A couple mentions of a miscarriage being blamed on the mother being exposed to potent chemicals & her grief/pain; A couple mentions of the deaths of a man’s parents on the Titanic; A couple mentions of the death of a man after injuries from a barroom brawl; A couple mentions of poison that can cause instant death (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of blackouts; A couple mentions of a man who doesn’t care for his stepchildren because they are another man’s children; A couple mentions of multiple divorces; A mention of embezzlement; A mention of a man threating to murder someone (who he thinks is having an affair with his wife); A mention of throwing up;
*Note: Amelie wishes that just once she could play the leading lady who helps the hero or even defended herself from the get-go instead of being a horrified spectator; Amelie doesn’t want to imagine marrying anyone; Amelie thinks negatively of someone thinking that the man believes him to be superior to those who have less money than him; Someone makes a comment about not trusting foreigners; Mentions of car brands; Mentions of actors, actresses, movies, singers, & songs from this time period (Carole Lombard, Bob Hope, Leslie Howard, Cary Grant, W.C. Fields, Lana Turner, Rita Hayworth, Ginger Rogers, Clark Gable, Walter Pidgeon, Jean Harlow, Katharine Hepburn, Greta Garbo, Gone with the Wind, Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, & Rosita Serrano); A few mentions of Oscars & Academy Awards; A mention of an Agatha Christie novel.
Sexual Content- an accident lip touch, a wrist kiss, a cheek kiss, three forehead kisses, an almost kiss, a not-detailed (movie/acting) kiss, five barely-above-not-detailed kisses, two border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kisses, two semi-detailed kisses, and three detailed kisses; Remembering kisses & Wanting to kiss (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Accidental Cuddling, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth, Shivers, Nearness, Smelling (including some in a movie/acting); Blushes; Noticing & Staring (including a man being bare chested and his muscles, up to semi-detailed); Amelie is to play as the “blond bimbo” on her mission (which is what she typically plays in movies) and tells those in charge that she won’t be a femme fatale and will not use her body in a “compromising way” or seduce anyone; *Spoiler* ; Amelie makes a couple of comments that either come out wrong or could be taken sexual (such as saying it’s her job to study a man’s body and then correct to meaning body language & when a man says he’d like to see more of her, she comments that no one sees more of her than what she’s currently wearing); Amelie is concerned that a man may want an indecent favor in return; Amelie adjusts her robe when in front of a man because she doesn’t want to give the impression that she’s after a romantic interlude & has morals (despite what the magazines print about her) and does not want to give the idea of a temptress; Amelie watches two people to see if they are having a secret relationship (affair), but notices nothing between them (some others believe they are); Someone makes a comment about assuming Amelie is there for a romantic liaison with a man; Amelie cautions a man that if he takes liberties with her and kisses her, she won’t be responsible for her actions towards him; The love interest kisses Amelie and says that he’ll be sleeping elsewhere because the temptation of kissing her more; A man (not the love interest) nuzzles Amelie & says he will “take whatever [he] wants from her” (nothing happens past that comment); Men flirt with, leer at, catcall, & say a couple vulgar slurs and propositions about Amelie (none of the slurs are written out); A man asks Amelie if another man has kept his paws off of her because “you have to watch the quiet ones”; A ‘bimbo’ is said; Mentions of men getting young women pregnant after “dallying” with them and then abandoning them, illegitimate children, & scandals; Mentions of rumors and gossip about affairs, hot romances, romantic liaisons, & scandals (none which are true); Mentions of attractive men & women throwing themselves at them (including one trying to kiss a man); Mentions of men staring at Amelie, their roaming eyes, forgetting their “manners” when around her, & some “pushy” fans; Mentions of ladies’ men & flirting; Mentions of jealousy & a man hitting another for believing his stole his girl; A couple mentions of kisses in films; A couple mentions of a man staring at Amelie’s lips; A couple mentions of sultry smiles (including a director telling Amelie to give one); A couple mentions of “taxi dancers” (where men would pay a dime for a dance with a girl); A couple mentions of crushes; A couple mentions of a young Amelie consuming numerous love stories, having a head “full of romantic delusions”, & wanting to gain approve from a young man (which she now realizes was damaging and that “value was not a trophy to be won from other people’s acceptance”); A mention of it being scandalous if Amelie checks into a hotel with a man (even if they book separate rooms); A mention of a man looking at Amelie with “masculine appreciation”; A mention of mythology legend that could morph into a handsome man and entice women to the ocean’s edge; A mention of a woman using her “charms” to get onboard a ship; A mention of a ladies’ man trying to skirt angry fathers; A mention of a father sending away an apprentice that his daughter was in love with; Love, attraction, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: When having to climb up or down something, Amelie has to hike her skirt up in a somewhat “scandalous” fashion, toss her stockings down to a man (who blushes), & warns him that he better not see anything so he says he’ll keep his gave on her higher portions (she threats his “lower portions” with a kick if he doesn’t); Amelie kicks a man in his groin (self-defense); Mentions of men valuing women for what they could give to them (such as their looks/appearance and fame); A couple mentions of a book about the mating principles of dragonflies (including Amelie commenting that who would have guessed that there was so much information on this subject by the size of the book); A mention of a dress hugging Amelie’s curves.
-Amelie Blake, age 26
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1943 (Final Chapter in 1945)
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
Put spy in a title and I’m curious to know more, what can I say?
I was taken aback that this book was written in first person, but I ended up really liking that element. It made the book feel like one of those old movies with the main character narrating what’s happening which really added to the 1940s feel of this story. She acts as an airhead and it was quite satisfying.
I think it’s a micro trope, but I always find it interesting that when the main character is a spy and don’t know if they can trust their love interest. I really like that element. One thing I would have liked more of in this book would have been an obvious note that Finn was Christian as well. We saw a couple glimpses, but I would have liked the faith content to take a bit more of center stage at times.
This is the third book I’ve read in the series and the third one I’ve really enjoyed. I’m really enjoying that so far while they are either stateside or abroad (this being my first abroad setting one) and it’s all about the war, they’re not horribly sad with all the details of the Jews being persecuted, fighting and deaths details, and such things that are very common in World War II books. It doesn't feel as heavy as most.
I wish I could’ve given this book a four-star, but because of a couple comments here and there, a few suggestions, and then a few of long kissing scenes, I didn’t care for those parts and it affects the ratings. If an older girl has been exposed to more things in books (such as secular books), this book probably would be just fine, but I have to note these things and that I would mark it for older girls, at least, for sure.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
August 24, 2023
Disclosure: I received this book free from the author/publisher through Celebrate Lit. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
And intriguing historical romance and a good installment in the Heroines of WWII series!
Amelie was a sympathetic character and a fun narrator. I liked how she took care of her mom. I thought Finn was a bit of a cliche historical romance hero given his broodiness and overly described looks, but I did like that he developed more of a personality toward the end of the book.
The plot contained plenty of suspenseful moments and hints of intrigue to keep me reading right along. I did get rather confused near the end, but that could've been due to the fact that I read this while having a cold. I appreciated that Rachel Scott McDaniel kept both the romance and language clean. This novel seemed very well researched.
Overall, The Starlet Spy was an entertaining read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and historical romance with a thread of suspense.
And intriguing historical romance and a good installment in the Heroines of WWII series!
Amelie was a sympathetic character and a fun narrator. I liked how she took care of her mom. I thought Finn was a bit of a cliche historical romance hero given his broodiness and overly described looks, but I did like that he developed more of a personality toward the end of the book.
The plot contained plenty of suspenseful moments and hints of intrigue to keep me reading right along. I did get rather confused near the end, but that could've been due to the fact that I read this while having a cold. I appreciated that Rachel Scott McDaniel kept both the romance and language clean. This novel seemed very well researched.
Overall, The Starlet Spy was an entertaining read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and historical romance with a thread of suspense.
September 4, 2023
Another winner from Rachel Scott McDaniel! I think she just gets better and better with each new release! This one has all of the glitz and glam of old Hollywood set in WW2, the rich history in the plot signifies Ms. McDaniel's attention to detail and research. I loved her personal connection to this story to in the author notes. The plot, her characters, and the way she tells a story always leaves me wanting more. Highly recommend!!
July 8, 2023
The Starlet Spy is a WWII romantic suspense set mostly in Sweden. The heroine is a beautiful Swede who is a Hollywood starlet. Amelie changes roles to spy in her native homeland to retrieve documents from Nazi hands. The handsome Finn earns her trust, and the two of them set the course for page turning action. I really enjoyed the historical details the author used and the setting. I've not read a WWII story set in Sweden. This book has mystery, action, and witty banter. The happily ever after is one of the best I've read in a while.
I think fans of Ashley Weaver would enjoy this book. I know I did!
*I was given a copy of this book by Barbour Publishing, and this is my honest opinion.
4.5 stars
I think fans of Ashley Weaver would enjoy this book. I know I did!
*I was given a copy of this book by Barbour Publishing, and this is my honest opinion.
4.5 stars
July 3, 2023
The Starlet Spy easily earns a strong five-star rating!
I highly recommend this spectacular book to everyone who enjoys reading historical romance, historical fiction, or Christian fiction. The novel includes many genuine facts as well as entertaining details -- and storytelling at its finest.
Rachel Scott McDaniel includes historically accurate facts in her novels. The Starlet Spy contains the most of any of her novels. I am so glad she does this -- the result is a powerfully wonderful story.
From the stunning cover to the one-of-a-kind World War 2 characters to the multiple country settings to the Christian faith content, The Starlet Spy is a must read. Adventure, espionage, mystery, suspense, bravery, courage, humor, tenderness, love, and romance await readers from the first page to the last.
A few Scriptural truths are shared including the reminder that we should not focus on our problems but instead look up to our Creator and King. If God can ignite the heavens with aurora borealis, we can trust Him to light the darkness around us and to guide us on the straight and narrow path.
I received an eARC of The Starlet Spy from NetGalley, Rachel Scott McDaniel, and Barbour Fiction. I was not required to write a positive review or paid to do so. The words above are my honest review of this terrific book.
I highly recommend this spectacular book to everyone who enjoys reading historical romance, historical fiction, or Christian fiction. The novel includes many genuine facts as well as entertaining details -- and storytelling at its finest.
Rachel Scott McDaniel includes historically accurate facts in her novels. The Starlet Spy contains the most of any of her novels. I am so glad she does this -- the result is a powerfully wonderful story.
From the stunning cover to the one-of-a-kind World War 2 characters to the multiple country settings to the Christian faith content, The Starlet Spy is a must read. Adventure, espionage, mystery, suspense, bravery, courage, humor, tenderness, love, and romance await readers from the first page to the last.
A few Scriptural truths are shared including the reminder that we should not focus on our problems but instead look up to our Creator and King. If God can ignite the heavens with aurora borealis, we can trust Him to light the darkness around us and to guide us on the straight and narrow path.
I received an eARC of The Starlet Spy from NetGalley, Rachel Scott McDaniel, and Barbour Fiction. I was not required to write a positive review or paid to do so. The words above are my honest review of this terrific book.
June 5, 2023
1943 Sweden
Loved all the history included in the pages. The author's note at the end provides additional information about the historical facts. Definitely some fascinating details about WWII specifically involving Scandinavia.
As a Swedish born Hollywood actress turns into a spy for the Allies, she puts herself at risk many times for the benefit of others. While she pretends to be a dumb blond to secure information, Amelie is intelligent and speaks three languages. The added element of not being clear on who she could trust added to the tension.
Plenty of intrigue and action for this author's first foray into an internationally set novel.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Loved all the history included in the pages. The author's note at the end provides additional information about the historical facts. Definitely some fascinating details about WWII specifically involving Scandinavia.
As a Swedish born Hollywood actress turns into a spy for the Allies, she puts herself at risk many times for the benefit of others. While she pretends to be a dumb blond to secure information, Amelie is intelligent and speaks three languages. The added element of not being clear on who she could trust added to the tension.
Plenty of intrigue and action for this author's first foray into an internationally set novel.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
August 1, 2023
First reviewed here: https://belovedgraceful-carissasbooks...
Title: The Starlet Spy
Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel
Ch: 33
Pg: 259
Series: Heroines of WWII 11
Genre: Christian historical fiction Christian Historical Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Publisher: Barbour
It was the whole female spy heroine that got me to pick up The Starlet Spy. I’m a sucker for WWII books and books with spies. Not to mention that I’ve loved all of Rachel’s previous books. And though this one is a departure from her usual 1920s dual time novels. I enjoyed this one from start to finish. And the fact that this was the first WWII novel that I read set in Sweden kept me turning pages.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters, especially Amelie and Finn. Throughout The Starlet Spy it felt like I was traveling through Sweden with Amelie and loved what she got from seeing the Northern lights which happens to be on my travel bucket list. To some readers the faith content might seem subtle, but I saw it all through the story it wove through every aspect of Amelie’s life.
And of course, I’ve not got to try Salmiak as a fan of black licorice yes I know I’m weird. Amelie Blake has become my second favorite Rachel heroine Devyn Asbury from Undercurrent of Secrets will always be my favorite as a fellow Louisville girl.
I received a copy of this book from the author I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Title: The Starlet Spy
Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel
Ch: 33
Pg: 259
Series: Heroines of WWII 11
Genre: Christian historical fiction Christian Historical Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Publisher: Barbour
It was the whole female spy heroine that got me to pick up The Starlet Spy. I’m a sucker for WWII books and books with spies. Not to mention that I’ve loved all of Rachel’s previous books. And though this one is a departure from her usual 1920s dual time novels. I enjoyed this one from start to finish. And the fact that this was the first WWII novel that I read set in Sweden kept me turning pages.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters, especially Amelie and Finn. Throughout The Starlet Spy it felt like I was traveling through Sweden with Amelie and loved what she got from seeing the Northern lights which happens to be on my travel bucket list. To some readers the faith content might seem subtle, but I saw it all through the story it wove through every aspect of Amelie’s life.
And of course, I’ve not got to try Salmiak as a fan of black licorice yes I know I’m weird. Amelie Blake has become my second favorite Rachel heroine Devyn Asbury from Undercurrent of Secrets will always be my favorite as a fellow Louisville girl.
I received a copy of this book from the author I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 3, 2023
This was like watching a Humphrey Bogart movie in my head! Clever dialogue, mesmerizing plot and wonderful characters made this story a hit!
Amelie is a special woman who has a unique set of skills that makes her important to the allies. Swedish born, she returns to her homeland in search of important papers. It is essential that she finds them and rescues them before they fall in enemy hands.
Finn is a wealthy Swedish businessman but Amelie does not know whose side he is on. He makes a wonderful, broody hero. Amelie must test his loyalty while not divulging what her true mission is.
Ms. McDaniel states in her author notes that she had qualms about writing in a different era. She need not have worried, for she captivated me with this fascinating story. She easily slipped into WWII mode and seamlessly wove historical details into a tale that had me wishing there was more to tell. Faith was naturally included and the romance was swoony and sweet.
I am always anxious to read something from this polished author.
* I received a complimentary ebook from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Amelie is a special woman who has a unique set of skills that makes her important to the allies. Swedish born, she returns to her homeland in search of important papers. It is essential that she finds them and rescues them before they fall in enemy hands.
Finn is a wealthy Swedish businessman but Amelie does not know whose side he is on. He makes a wonderful, broody hero. Amelie must test his loyalty while not divulging what her true mission is.
Ms. McDaniel states in her author notes that she had qualms about writing in a different era. She need not have worried, for she captivated me with this fascinating story. She easily slipped into WWII mode and seamlessly wove historical details into a tale that had me wishing there was more to tell. Faith was naturally included and the romance was swoony and sweet.
I am always anxious to read something from this polished author.
* I received a complimentary ebook from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
July 31, 2023
This book is stunning, and I'm not just talking about the cover! Although the cover is all of the heart eyes!
This book is brimming with historical facts and had so many plot twists that I could not put it down...add in a grumpy love interest and this author has a MUST READ type of book on her hands. Not to mention the author notes at the end which CANNOT BE MISSED! I learned so much and it made the story so much richer!
''...you can see why her disguise is perfect."
My gaze toggled between them. "But...I wasn't given a disguise."
Bill shrugged. "Hollywood already gave you the perfect cover."
My mouth parted. "You mean..." Oh, anything but that. "You want me to be the blond bimbo?"'
I loved Amelie's determination to do whatever it took to help the Allies in WWII. There was so much creativity based on fact in this book that has given me such a greater appreciation for everyone who was willing to play their "roles" in the fight against the Nazis.
This book started off quickly paced and before I knew it Amelie had been to The Farm for training and was in an airplane headed to her homeland of Sweden and I was completely invested.
'With a prayer on my heart and a gun strapped to my thigh, I nodded. "I'm ready."'
This book was spectacular at the cat-and-mouse aspect. The clues and Easter eggs hidden throughout were fun to try and discover before the main characters were able to. I constantly second guessed myself and loved the suspense.
Even more than the suspense, I loved the romance. Who doesn't love a brooding hero?
'...with Finn, I knew he had two moods--broody and broodier.'
I challenge you not to happy sigh at least a dozen times throughout this book.
This book is fascinating, well researched, well developed and extremely well written. I love books with a WWII setting but have struggled to find truly intriguing stories within my reading comfort zones. I loved that this allowed me the escape and the inspiration without making any part of it uncomfortable. This is my first read by this author and she has herself a new fan and became an auto-buy author all in one book.
I highly, HIGHLY recommend this to anyone who loves having history come alive, romantic suspense, WWII setting and inspirational stories! This is definitely one of the best books I've read all year!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: Grumpy/Sunshine, WWII war setting and descriptions, spying and undercover ops, mild violence, mention of child born out of wedlock, plot twists and turns you do not see coming, and one of the most darling romances I've read!
This book is brimming with historical facts and had so many plot twists that I could not put it down...add in a grumpy love interest and this author has a MUST READ type of book on her hands. Not to mention the author notes at the end which CANNOT BE MISSED! I learned so much and it made the story so much richer!
''...you can see why her disguise is perfect."
My gaze toggled between them. "But...I wasn't given a disguise."
Bill shrugged. "Hollywood already gave you the perfect cover."
My mouth parted. "You mean..." Oh, anything but that. "You want me to be the blond bimbo?"'
I loved Amelie's determination to do whatever it took to help the Allies in WWII. There was so much creativity based on fact in this book that has given me such a greater appreciation for everyone who was willing to play their "roles" in the fight against the Nazis.
This book started off quickly paced and before I knew it Amelie had been to The Farm for training and was in an airplane headed to her homeland of Sweden and I was completely invested.
'With a prayer on my heart and a gun strapped to my thigh, I nodded. "I'm ready."'
This book was spectacular at the cat-and-mouse aspect. The clues and Easter eggs hidden throughout were fun to try and discover before the main characters were able to. I constantly second guessed myself and loved the suspense.
Even more than the suspense, I loved the romance. Who doesn't love a brooding hero?
'...with Finn, I knew he had two moods--broody and broodier.'
I challenge you not to happy sigh at least a dozen times throughout this book.
This book is fascinating, well researched, well developed and extremely well written. I love books with a WWII setting but have struggled to find truly intriguing stories within my reading comfort zones. I loved that this allowed me the escape and the inspiration without making any part of it uncomfortable. This is my first read by this author and she has herself a new fan and became an auto-buy author all in one book.
I highly, HIGHLY recommend this to anyone who loves having history come alive, romantic suspense, WWII setting and inspirational stories! This is definitely one of the best books I've read all year!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: Grumpy/Sunshine, WWII war setting and descriptions, spying and undercover ops, mild violence, mention of child born out of wedlock, plot twists and turns you do not see coming, and one of the most darling romances I've read!
May 10, 2023
In The Starlet Spy, Rachel Scott McDaniel weaves another dazzling historical novel full of romance, mystery and inspiration that readers have come to love from her writing. Set in Sweden in the 1940’s, McDaniel brilliantly ties fiction to real-life events in the midst of WWII with her plot embedded in the deadly world of spies and counterspies. This novel was a page-turner, and had me guessing right along with the heroine on who to trust. Historical romance perfection!
August 1, 2023
The Starlet Spy was everything I could have asked for in a romantic suspense and more! I love books I can easily picture in my head, and favorite author Rachel Scott McDaniel really delivered a spectacular, WWII, movie-like must read! Set mostly in Sweden during WWII, American actress Amelie Blake is asked by the OSS to return to her homeland and become a spy for the war effort. Risking all sorts of danger, and even her heart, she plays a cat and mouse game to recover secret documents pertaining to atomic research. With heart palpitating suspense, a swoony enemies to lovers romance, 1940’s Hollywood glamour, and a touch of faith, this page turner stayed with me long after reading!
Amelie is not only gorgeous, but has a photographic memory, speaks three languages, and is brilliant. On film though, she’s portrayed as a “brainless, hapless, female.” It’s why she’s chosen to be a spy. Another reason is that Finn Ristaffason whom they suspect has the documents and may be a Nazi sympathizer, admires her greatly and has all her films. But, it’s Amelie who’s had a secret crush on him since she was a teenager in Sweden.
The delicious tension between them is off the charts. Amelie’s still attracted to the handsome Finn, but can she trust him? It’s a careful dance with her trying to get close to him but not falling for him again. Finn is quiet serious and it’s fun seeing him enamored and amused by her. I loved their enemies to lovers romance. The dancing on the beach and aurora borealis scenes were so good and the surprise ending was perfection.
The story is so well written and the suspense was intense. There’re so many moments where I was holding my breath hoping Amelie wouldn’t get caught. There are quite a few twists and turns that kept me guessing, and the villain was a bit of a surprise.
Highly recommend this well written, edge of your seat, romantic suspense that has all the feels of a classic 1940’s movie. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
Amelie is not only gorgeous, but has a photographic memory, speaks three languages, and is brilliant. On film though, she’s portrayed as a “brainless, hapless, female.” It’s why she’s chosen to be a spy. Another reason is that Finn Ristaffason whom they suspect has the documents and may be a Nazi sympathizer, admires her greatly and has all her films. But, it’s Amelie who’s had a secret crush on him since she was a teenager in Sweden.
The delicious tension between them is off the charts. Amelie’s still attracted to the handsome Finn, but can she trust him? It’s a careful dance with her trying to get close to him but not falling for him again. Finn is quiet serious and it’s fun seeing him enamored and amused by her. I loved their enemies to lovers romance. The dancing on the beach and aurora borealis scenes were so good and the surprise ending was perfection.
The story is so well written and the suspense was intense. There’re so many moments where I was holding my breath hoping Amelie wouldn’t get caught. There are quite a few twists and turns that kept me guessing, and the villain was a bit of a surprise.
Highly recommend this well written, edge of your seat, romantic suspense that has all the feels of a classic 1940’s movie. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
January 29, 2023
While Rachel McDaniel’s 1920s stories will always be my favorites of hers I’ve been loving seeing her foray into some other time periods and the fact that this time period just happens to be my favorite was definitely a bonus!
Amelie was a fantastic heroine, the world saw her as an empty-headed actress but she had depth and intelligence that they didn’t get to see. I admired the way that she took on the risk without a second thought and gave her all to carrying out her mission to the best of her ability.
Finn was wonderful as well, a serious hero with a hidden gentle side, who wouldn’t fall in love?! There was no pretense with him and I loved that and the way he maturely reacted to things definitely gave him bonus points.
My favorite scenes were definitely any with Finn and Amelie together and I was completely invested in their developing relationship!
The mystery and intrigue kept me engaged throughout the book and I didn’t see the ending coming!
Definitely a winner in my book and I highly recommend!
Amelie was a fantastic heroine, the world saw her as an empty-headed actress but she had depth and intelligence that they didn’t get to see. I admired the way that she took on the risk without a second thought and gave her all to carrying out her mission to the best of her ability.
Finn was wonderful as well, a serious hero with a hidden gentle side, who wouldn’t fall in love?! There was no pretense with him and I loved that and the way he maturely reacted to things definitely gave him bonus points.
My favorite scenes were definitely any with Finn and Amelie together and I was completely invested in their developing relationship!
The mystery and intrigue kept me engaged throughout the book and I didn’t see the ending coming!
Definitely a winner in my book and I highly recommend!
June 20, 2023
thoroughly enjoyed reading this captivating story. Its intriguing plot, fast-paced action, and lovable characters held my attention. The sweet romance, especially the final scene, was a delightful addition. Stunning Cover!!
In 1943, a movie producer named Henrik Zoltan approached Hollywood star Amelie Blake with an offer to play the lead role in his upcoming film. However, his true intention was to recruit her for a more significant task. The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needed someone who could spy on the Swedish elite without arousing suspicion. Amelie, though intelligent, used her reputation for being gullible as a cover. Her mission was to find crucial documents, but she faced obstacles from Finn Ristaffason, a charming shipping magnate who seemed to appear wherever she went.
Featuring relatable characters that are easy to follow and cheer on. It kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly guessing who to trust. I particularly enjoyed the dry wit exchanged between the main characters, adding a touch of humor to the thrilling plot. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is intelligently executed, resulting in a well-balanced, tension-filled read.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the eARC.
In 1943, a movie producer named Henrik Zoltan approached Hollywood star Amelie Blake with an offer to play the lead role in his upcoming film. However, his true intention was to recruit her for a more significant task. The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needed someone who could spy on the Swedish elite without arousing suspicion. Amelie, though intelligent, used her reputation for being gullible as a cover. Her mission was to find crucial documents, but she faced obstacles from Finn Ristaffason, a charming shipping magnate who seemed to appear wherever she went.
Featuring relatable characters that are easy to follow and cheer on. It kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly guessing who to trust. I particularly enjoyed the dry wit exchanged between the main characters, adding a touch of humor to the thrilling plot. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is intelligently executed, resulting in a well-balanced, tension-filled read.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the eARC.
August 1, 2023
Rachel Scott McDaniel has quickly risen in the ranks of my favorite Christian authors, and this book was no exception to my love for her work. Adorable romance, intriguing mystery, and a fast-paced plot meant that I did not want to stop reading. (and I ended up finishing it in a day so I'd say that's a good sign) I'm sad it's over. I want to stay with these characters forever. (I know a sequel is unlikely but like... I'd read one...)
I was instantly invested in Amelie and her story, wanting her to succeed from the start. World War II from Sweden's point of view isn't something I've read about before, so that was super interesting! (I don't think I've read many books at all set in Sweden, actually. I should work on that.) The intrigue was high as we're introduced to the cast of supporting characters, and I didn't know who to trust!
Speaking of supporting characters... the romance. *happy sigh* I loved it. If you (like me) are a sucker for the love story in The Sound of Music, you should read this one. (there's not many plot similarities, but they gave me the same vibes) The grumpy x sunshine, the protective natures, the dance scene?? I'm a puddle on the floor for these two.
"The Starlet Spy" was everything I hoped it would be, and I'm so glad. Five stars from me!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
I was instantly invested in Amelie and her story, wanting her to succeed from the start. World War II from Sweden's point of view isn't something I've read about before, so that was super interesting! (I don't think I've read many books at all set in Sweden, actually. I should work on that.) The intrigue was high as we're introduced to the cast of supporting characters, and I didn't know who to trust!
Speaking of supporting characters... the romance. *happy sigh* I loved it. If you (like me) are a sucker for the love story in The Sound of Music, you should read this one. (there's not many plot similarities, but they gave me the same vibes) The grumpy x sunshine, the protective natures, the dance scene?? I'm a puddle on the floor for these two.
"The Starlet Spy" was everything I hoped it would be, and I'm so glad. Five stars from me!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
October 5, 2023
5 stars!!! This is easily in my top 3 for this year so far. The characters, the intrigue, the drama, the EVERYTHING! McDaniel’s writing immediately immerses the reader into 1940s America, followed by Sweden. She masters the show, don’t tell process in this. Each character you meet comes with a degree of heft that shows the amount of time she put into getting to know and develop each character. The PLOTTTT was so thick and not cookie cutter, but also hit that sweet spot of not having tiresome twists that overdo it (my complaint in most suspense these days). I was just so enthralled in every second that I was reading. I mean…SPIES! Missing documents! Forgery!
And that romantic subplot!!! Amelie and Finn just wind up with the sweetest story. It was just SO. GOOD.
On top of that, there are some lines that STILL make me laugh out loud when I think of them! Good-looker, indeed!
I received a copy through NetGalley, all thoughts and opinions are enthusiastically my own.
And that romantic subplot!!! Amelie and Finn just wind up with the sweetest story. It was just SO. GOOD.
On top of that, there are some lines that STILL make me laugh out loud when I think of them! Good-looker, indeed!
I received a copy through NetGalley, all thoughts and opinions are enthusiastically my own.
September 8, 2023
I NEVER miss a book by Rachel McDaniel. She has quickly become an absolute favorite of mine. I love her stories. I really enjoyed this book. The setup with an actress becoming a spy was a fun one and I was definitely guessing throughout the story. Great read!
July 17, 2023
Oh my goodness this book! I loved the story and the setting and the characters...every single aspect sucked me in and didn't let me go until the end! I cannot say enough good things about The Starlet Spy...Highly highly recommend!
June 4, 2023
Rachel Scott McDaniel has delivered yet another masterpiece! Fun, fast paced, and full of intrigue, mystery, and romance, The Starlet Spy does NOT disappoint! The abundance of historical truths woven throughout this WWII story coupled with the swoony chemistry that develops amongst the main characters results in a sure to be page-turner (and fewer hours of sleep!)! The reader is kept guessing about the villains right up until the end! Bravo!!
July 9, 2023
A superb historical novel by Rachel Scott McDaniel! Having read Sarah Sundin's The Sound of Light earlier this year, I was a bit familiar with the Danish refugees who'd come to Sweden late in the war. This book came from the other side of it and added a twist. Though I don't believe either author planned it, these books releasing 6 months apart was well timed! I enjoyed how they inadvertently fed into each other's stories. This book follows Amelie Blake, a Hollywood movie star who is originally from Sweden. When the Allies need someone to go undercover in Sweden to find some missing papers, who better than to send a well-known movie star who already speaks the language and knows the culture?
I thoroughly enjoyed Amalie's story. She was a great character, with a lot of depth and I enjoyed that she shattered some of the expectations of society. In addition, this story had a lot of twists and turns. Major plot points I never saw coming and characters' true colors coming to light. I enjoyed the history that was included in this story (be sure to read the author's note at the end to see what was factual and what was fiction!), the character depth and development, and the twisty story-line that kept me guessing and turning pages. There was a solid faith thread within as well as Amalie made no attempts to hide her Christianity. There was also a sweet romance as well, with a super sweet ending. All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and one I'd definitely recommend to fans of historical fiction.
Special thanks to Barbour House and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed Amalie's story. She was a great character, with a lot of depth and I enjoyed that she shattered some of the expectations of society. In addition, this story had a lot of twists and turns. Major plot points I never saw coming and characters' true colors coming to light. I enjoyed the history that was included in this story (be sure to read the author's note at the end to see what was factual and what was fiction!), the character depth and development, and the twisty story-line that kept me guessing and turning pages. There was a solid faith thread within as well as Amalie made no attempts to hide her Christianity. There was also a sweet romance as well, with a super sweet ending. All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and one I'd definitely recommend to fans of historical fiction.
Special thanks to Barbour House and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
June 21, 2023
First time reading this author and I really liked the story and the writing!
I always have a predilection for WWII stories and this one brought everything that I like: intrigue, adventure, high stakes, romance, and, of course, knowing that any parts could be based on true events (and many times are).
Amelie is a Hollywood star who's recruited for a special mission based on her skills and background. Despite the risk, she accepts it and receives training before traveling to Sweden under the guise of visiting her sick mother. Soon, her every turn is entwined with Finn. When they decide to trust each other, they work together in the same mission.
Very enjoyable story.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
I always have a predilection for WWII stories and this one brought everything that I like: intrigue, adventure, high stakes, romance, and, of course, knowing that any parts could be based on true events (and many times are).
Amelie is a Hollywood star who's recruited for a special mission based on her skills and background. Despite the risk, she accepts it and receives training before traveling to Sweden under the guise of visiting her sick mother. Soon, her every turn is entwined with Finn. When they decide to trust each other, they work together in the same mission.
Very enjoyable story.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
January 7, 2025
The Starlet Spy by: Rachel Scott McDaniel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A 1940's Hollywood movie star is asked to return to Sweden to spy for the OSS.
Who's good? Who's evil? Who can you trust?
These are questions that kept me turning the page.
This story is glamorous and dreamy. Our heroine does her best work in evening gowns with a gun on her thigh.
Amalie Blake is smart, sassy, rich and knows her worth.
She's not easily intimidated and I loved her as a lead.
Based on true historical events, this story was unputdownable.
And the romance? Worth. The. Wait.
Highly recommend. Definitely a favorite read of the year.
Available on Audio too ⭐
Thank you to @megansbookshelf for buddy reading with me
#spyromance
#ww11
#thescarletspy
#oldhollywood
A 1940's Hollywood movie star is asked to return to Sweden to spy for the OSS.
Who's good? Who's evil? Who can you trust?
These are questions that kept me turning the page.
This story is glamorous and dreamy. Our heroine does her best work in evening gowns with a gun on her thigh.
Amalie Blake is smart, sassy, rich and knows her worth.
She's not easily intimidated and I loved her as a lead.
Based on true historical events, this story was unputdownable.
And the romance? Worth. The. Wait.
Highly recommend. Definitely a favorite read of the year.
Available on Audio too ⭐
Thank you to @megansbookshelf for buddy reading with me
#spyromance
#ww11
#thescarletspy
#oldhollywood
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August 1, 2023It's 1943. A Hollywood bigwig approaches Hollywood star Amelie Blake with an offer to play the lead role in his upcoming film--with a catch. He actually wants to recruit her to spy. The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needs someone to infiltrate the Swedish elite. Amelie is regarded as a ditzy blonde, as that's the sort of role she often played. Her mission is to find crucial documents, but rich shipping magnate Finn Ristaffason gets in her way at every turn. The Germans have invaded, and anyone could be a spy, a German informer, or a freedom fighter. How can she tell the difference?
It was slower moving than I expected, but a huge plus for me was the total absence of graphic rape-threats and suchlike that too many of these tales seem to have to feature. (I know it happened. I don't need to read fiction about it.) I liked Amelie, who tries to navigate this tense, dangerous world with her morals intact. Interesting read.
It was slower moving than I expected, but a huge plus for me was the total absence of graphic rape-threats and suchlike that too many of these tales seem to have to feature. (I know it happened. I don't need to read fiction about it.) I liked Amelie, who tries to navigate this tense, dangerous world with her morals intact. Interesting read.
August 4, 2023
I was so excited when I heard that Rachel McDaniel was going to write a WWII book because WWII is one of my favorites! And not only did she do an amazing job with the time period, she gave us a setting that isn't often done (at least not that I've read). This book still has her signature writing style and swoony romance. I loved everything about it. While I adore her 1920s books, I'm glad to see her branch out and succeed at it!
September 21, 2023
This hourglass story is whistling a glamorous invitation to revisit my favorite pocket of history. Clearing my calendar…I will be there!
*I would like to extend my deepest gratitude the author’s grandfather and say,
Thank You for your service to our great country.
*I would like to extend my deepest gratitude the author’s grandfather and say,
Thank You for your service to our great country.
June 27, 2023
This is a fantastic historical mystery/romance. Amelie, a Hollywood movie star from Sweden, is recruited to return to her homeland to help find stolen documents that cannot fall into Nazi hands. It’s well written, fast paced, with lots of unexpected twists and turns. Definitely add this to your TBR list if you like: a WWII setting, spies and espionage, a quick-thinking heroine, a hero who’s moods are broody and broodier, lots of action, Christian themes, family drama, and an amazing ending. This is the first book that I’ve read by this author and I definitely want to check out her backlist titles.
I received a complimentary ebook for review. A positive review was not required, all thoughts are my own and voluntarily given.
I received a complimentary ebook for review. A positive review was not required, all thoughts are my own and voluntarily given.
August 4, 2023
High 4⭐️
The Starlet Spy started out slow for me but I ended up really enjoying it. Wonderful characters with one of the best happily ever afters I’ve seen. **SIGH**
This was a WWII novel and I didn’t find it sad like a lot of WWII novels that I’ve read. The story took place mostly in Sweden and I learned a lot about what was going on during the war there. The romance was of course my favorite part, but it also had a decent amount of action packed mystery and suspense. I found it well written and enjoyed the authors notes at the end.
Thanks Barbour Publishing via NetGalley.
The Starlet Spy started out slow for me but I ended up really enjoying it. Wonderful characters with one of the best happily ever afters I’ve seen. **SIGH**
This was a WWII novel and I didn’t find it sad like a lot of WWII novels that I’ve read. The story took place mostly in Sweden and I learned a lot about what was going on during the war there. The romance was of course my favorite part, but it also had a decent amount of action packed mystery and suspense. I found it well written and enjoyed the authors notes at the end.
Thanks Barbour Publishing via NetGalley.
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