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Evelyne Redfern #2
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park
With mystery, intrigue, and the hints of romance international bestselling author Julia Kelly is known for, Evelyne Redfern returns in Betrayal at Blackthorn Park.
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.
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.
Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2024
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About the author
Julia Kelly
22 books2,516 followersJulia Kelly is the international bestselling author of historical fiction and historical mystery novels about the extraordinary stories of the past. Her books have been translated into 13 languages. In addition to writing, she’s been an Emmy-nominated producer, journalist, marketing professional, and (for one summer) a tea waitress. Julia has called Los Angeles, Iowa, and New York City home. She now lives in London with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 417 reviews
September 4, 2024
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, historical fiction, mystery novel. It is set during WWII, and has a likable, intelligent female protagonist, an engaging and supportive male protagonist, wit, a touch of humor, murder, intrigue, suspense, twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion. The author's acknowledgements contain interesting and enlightening information, and a beautiful message to her husband. This is the second entry in Ms. Kelly's outstanding Evelyne Redfern series, and it can be read as a stand alone. I am looking forward to reading the next installment with great anticipation. Many thanks to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, NetGalley, and Ms. Kelly, from whom I received an advanced reader copy of this delightful novel. This is my honest opinion.
June 10, 2024
When I finished the first book in this series, it appeared to be a standalone story and I wished for another book. Imagine my delight at finding out this was a series and I was getting access to an early copy of the second book?!?
Evelyn was recruited to be a secret agent in the first Parisian Orphan book. After solving a murder while working as a typist in Churchill’s underground war rooms in that story, she returns in this second book having gone through a grueling training camp. Her first assignment is a quick, overnight visit to a manor being used as a weapons development lab to evaluate security protocols. Her partner in the last book, David Poole, is now her handler and will stay in London.
Evelyn easily breaches security at the manor, but stumbles upon the dead body of the man in charge of the operation. And so, the overnight assignment because a murder investigation and David joins Evenlyn in the country.
The investigation moves quickly and some of the men working at the lab blend together initially, but the issue resolves itself quickly as the different personalities become clear. Some secondary storylines serve as red herrings, of sorts, but are resolved in a satisfying way. They aren’t just thrown in and forgotten.
The relationship between Evelyn and David is solidly in the friend zone, but there’s a delightful chemistry between them that adds humor to the story. This isn’t quite a “will they won’t they” relationship yet.
The bigger arc of Evelyn’s family story continues to be developed with the promise of more to come in the next book. I can’t wait!
Evelyn was recruited to be a secret agent in the first Parisian Orphan book. After solving a murder while working as a typist in Churchill’s underground war rooms in that story, she returns in this second book having gone through a grueling training camp. Her first assignment is a quick, overnight visit to a manor being used as a weapons development lab to evaluate security protocols. Her partner in the last book, David Poole, is now her handler and will stay in London.
Evelyn easily breaches security at the manor, but stumbles upon the dead body of the man in charge of the operation. And so, the overnight assignment because a murder investigation and David joins Evenlyn in the country.
The investigation moves quickly and some of the men working at the lab blend together initially, but the issue resolves itself quickly as the different personalities become clear. Some secondary storylines serve as red herrings, of sorts, but are resolved in a satisfying way. They aren’t just thrown in and forgotten.
The relationship between Evelyn and David is solidly in the friend zone, but there’s a delightful chemistry between them that adds humor to the story. This isn’t quite a “will they won’t they” relationship yet.
The bigger arc of Evelyn’s family story continues to be developed with the promise of more to come in the next book. I can’t wait!
October 13, 2024
I’ll admit I haven’t read the first one in this series, but it didn’t hinder my understanding or enjoyment of this one. I listened to the audiobook and thought that the narrator did a great job bringing the story to life, especially the main character Evelyne. This cozy mystery historical fiction series is interesting and I love getting to read about a woman who was tapped to be a spy and investigator but would never have been if there hadn’t been war. Evelyne is given her first full mission now that she has completed training, but she’s disappointed it doesn’t seem like a big enough mission. To make matters worse David Poole is her handler instead of her partner. But when Evelyne gets to Blackthorn Park she finds a dead body and while it was set up to look like a suicide something doesn’t sit right with Evelyne. This mystery was fun and had some interesting red herrings and twists. I’ll definitely have to go back and find that first book in this series after finishing this one.
November 25, 2025
4.25 🌟
Mood/Seasonal Reading: November but not very many Autumn mentions so can be read anytime
I don’t have too much to say about this one. I think the series is progressing along nicely and I really enjoy the two main characters.
I would’ve liked to see a bit more romance in this instalment but I know it’s going to grow.
The mystery was a tad boring for me until the end. The reveal and explanation was quite interesting. This author has done some solid research and has an excellent imagination.
I think this was a decent follow up to the first. I think it does a good job building on the world and characters but future books should hopefully shine even more.
Very excited for the next one!
Mood/Seasonal Reading: November but not very many Autumn mentions so can be read anytime
I don’t have too much to say about this one. I think the series is progressing along nicely and I really enjoy the two main characters.
I would’ve liked to see a bit more romance in this instalment but I know it’s going to grow.
The mystery was a tad boring for me until the end. The reveal and explanation was quite interesting. This author has done some solid research and has an excellent imagination.
I think this was a decent follow up to the first. I think it does a good job building on the world and characters but future books should hopefully shine even more.
Very excited for the next one!
October 28, 2024
No sophomore slump for the author of this series.
Evelyn has passed her rigorous training and is now deemed fit to go out 'in the field'. Her first assignment is supposed to be easy-peasy. David Poole is to be her handler and stay remote while she does a bit of snooping. Naturally, nothing goes to plan. Her simple mission is immediately complicated by a murder; David is immediately drawn in as a fellow sleuth.
Lots of twists, turns, and interesting suspects. Also a nice look into one of the weapons-development 'think tanks' that flourished during the early days of the war in England.
I liked that we are shown Evelyn wrestling with the restrictions imposed by the Official Secrets Act. She is so used to sharing all with her roommate Moira and now she can't tell her anything! Will their friendship survive? Added to her problems, is she also starting to actually
like David?
I am eagerly awaiting the next installment. More, please...
Evelyn has passed her rigorous training and is now deemed fit to go out 'in the field'. Her first assignment is supposed to be easy-peasy. David Poole is to be her handler and stay remote while she does a bit of snooping. Naturally, nothing goes to plan. Her simple mission is immediately complicated by a murder; David is immediately drawn in as a fellow sleuth.
Lots of twists, turns, and interesting suspects. Also a nice look into one of the weapons-development 'think tanks' that flourished during the early days of the war in England.
I liked that we are shown Evelyn wrestling with the restrictions imposed by the Official Secrets Act. She is so used to sharing all with her roommate Moira and now she can't tell her anything! Will their friendship survive? Added to her problems, is she also starting to actually
like David?
I am eagerly awaiting the next installment. More, please...
October 21, 2024
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park was the second book in the Parisian Orphan series by Julia Kelly. I had previously read A Traitor in Whitehall, the first book in this series, and enjoyed it very much so I was excited to see that Julia Kelly had written a second book in this series. Betrayal at Blackthorn Park can best be described as a historical fiction cozy mystery. The setting for Betrayal at Blackstone Park was at Blackthorn Park, a reclusive and quite secure facility located in nearby Sussex during World War II. The primary function of Blackstone Park was to design and build explosive devices that would be used by British forces during the war. Only a very selective group knew of Blackstone Park’s existence and what was being done there.
Evelyne Redfern had recently returned to her London boarding house after partaking in an intense training operation that prepared her for her new role as an agent for the British government. David Poole had also undergone training to become a handler. Both Evelyn and David were summoned to headquarters to receive their first official assignment. They were both anticipating an assignment that was dangerous, presented them with risks and challenged them to use their newly acquired knowledge and skills they had acquired in their training. When Evelyne learned that she was being sent to a place called Blackthorn Park to evaluate their security because sensitive and crucial equipment had disappeared and that David Poole was to be her handler and not her partner she was disappointed. However, once Evelyne arrived at Blackthorn Park, she put her intuitive abilities to work. It was not long until Evelyne began to suspect that everything was not as it appeared to be at Blackthorn Park. Then she discovered a dead body. Was it a suicide as it appeared to be or had the victim been murdered? The discovery of the dead body brought David Poole to Blackthorn Park. Can the two work together to unravel all that was going on at Blackthorn Park?
I listened to the audiobook of Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly. It was very well narrated by Marisa Calin. Betrayal at Blackthorn Park was very well written, fast paced and impeccably researched. I really enjoyed getting to know the protagonist, Evelyne Redfern, even better in this book. She displayed qualities of strength, determination, intelligence, intuition and resilience. In a time when women were expected to be behind the scenes and reliant on their male counterparts, Evelyne was a woman who believed in her own abilities. The obvious chemistry and hint of romance that might develop between Evelyne and David was welcomed and I look forward to see how it develops as the series continues. There were several twists which only added to my enjoyment and curiosity. I look forward to reading or listening to the next addition in this series and I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Evelyne Redfern had recently returned to her London boarding house after partaking in an intense training operation that prepared her for her new role as an agent for the British government. David Poole had also undergone training to become a handler. Both Evelyn and David were summoned to headquarters to receive their first official assignment. They were both anticipating an assignment that was dangerous, presented them with risks and challenged them to use their newly acquired knowledge and skills they had acquired in their training. When Evelyne learned that she was being sent to a place called Blackthorn Park to evaluate their security because sensitive and crucial equipment had disappeared and that David Poole was to be her handler and not her partner she was disappointed. However, once Evelyne arrived at Blackthorn Park, she put her intuitive abilities to work. It was not long until Evelyne began to suspect that everything was not as it appeared to be at Blackthorn Park. Then she discovered a dead body. Was it a suicide as it appeared to be or had the victim been murdered? The discovery of the dead body brought David Poole to Blackthorn Park. Can the two work together to unravel all that was going on at Blackthorn Park?
I listened to the audiobook of Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly. It was very well narrated by Marisa Calin. Betrayal at Blackthorn Park was very well written, fast paced and impeccably researched. I really enjoyed getting to know the protagonist, Evelyne Redfern, even better in this book. She displayed qualities of strength, determination, intelligence, intuition and resilience. In a time when women were expected to be behind the scenes and reliant on their male counterparts, Evelyne was a woman who believed in her own abilities. The obvious chemistry and hint of romance that might develop between Evelyne and David was welcomed and I look forward to see how it develops as the series continues. There were several twists which only added to my enjoyment and curiosity. I look forward to reading or listening to the next addition in this series and I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
December 21, 2024
I enjoyed this so much! It’s just the kind of historical mystery I particularly enjoy. There is suspense but it’s not too intense for this sensitive reader. Evelyne and David are a great team, and I can see them working well together in future cases of which I hope there are many! It has a bit of the vibe of Ashley Weaver’s Electra McDonnell series. The only bad part is that it’s a long wait for the next book in the series. Alas! 😂
October 1, 2024
Julia Kelly is back with the second in her Parisian Orphan series, and Betrayal At Blackthorn Park was every bit as good as A Traitor In Whitehall!
I am forever astounded by historical female figures (fictional or actual), and Evelyne Redfern is one such character! She's a fierce underdog, with an intelligent, conscientious, and analytical head on her shoulder; these attributes make her the perfect detective as she transitions after graduating the Special Operations Executive spy finishing school!
The on-page interaction and chemistry between Evelyne and her sidekick David Poole (because he is the Watson to her Holmes, after all) is so good! Their relationship is both intimate yet remains platonic for the moment (...will this change as the series continues?). I love the built-in trust that comes from them both sharing this secret spy life; a true camaraderie stemming from this instant understanding between them!
I love that Kelly has deep roots in writing historical fiction, as it translates so well to mysteries from this WWII time period! The first book in the series was female-centric, and I'm hoping the third book swings back towards this type of cast, as I love Kelly's representation of women from this time period! Her writing within these two books has me wanting to branch out to read her historical fiction backlist!
I started this series with Marisa Calin's narration in my ears, and I'm so happy for the continuity that comes with her narrating this second book as well! She does a fantastic job portraying the wit and pointedness that Evelyne has as a character! There's really something special when a narrator can represent a character the way Calin does, interjecting just the right amount of liveliness!
I'm so excited to see where Kelly takes Evelyne Redfern next! (Highly recommend reading this series in publication order!)
Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the complimentary copies to read and review.
I am forever astounded by historical female figures (fictional or actual), and Evelyne Redfern is one such character! She's a fierce underdog, with an intelligent, conscientious, and analytical head on her shoulder; these attributes make her the perfect detective as she transitions after graduating the Special Operations Executive spy finishing school!
The on-page interaction and chemistry between Evelyne and her sidekick David Poole (because he is the Watson to her Holmes, after all) is so good! Their relationship is both intimate yet remains platonic for the moment (...will this change as the series continues?). I love the built-in trust that comes from them both sharing this secret spy life; a true camaraderie stemming from this instant understanding between them!
I love that Kelly has deep roots in writing historical fiction, as it translates so well to mysteries from this WWII time period! The first book in the series was female-centric, and I'm hoping the third book swings back towards this type of cast, as I love Kelly's representation of women from this time period! Her writing within these two books has me wanting to branch out to read her historical fiction backlist!
I started this series with Marisa Calin's narration in my ears, and I'm so happy for the continuity that comes with her narrating this second book as well! She does a fantastic job portraying the wit and pointedness that Evelyne has as a character! There's really something special when a narrator can represent a character the way Calin does, interjecting just the right amount of liveliness!
I'm so excited to see where Kelly takes Evelyne Redfern next! (Highly recommend reading this series in publication order!)
Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the complimentary copies to read and review.
July 24, 2024
The delightful Evelyne Redfern and David Poole return in the sequel to A Traitor in Whitehall. Evelyne has now successfully completed her training as an agent of the SIU and David has been trained as a handler. Their first assignment is intended to be an easy introductory mission to assess the security of Blackthorn Park, a requisitioned country manor converted to a weapons testing facility. However their mission changes rapidly when Evelyne enters the premises only to hear a gunshot and find the chief engineer dead in his office.
As with the first book, I thoroughly enjoyed Evelyne and David’s adventures and chemistry. While they are tasked with serious missions, there is a spark of fun and a lightness to their joint adventures which makes the books a joy to read. Couched in historical events and settings, it is evident that Julia Kelly has extensively researched her subject. I enjoyed the first book a little more because it was set in London during the blitz, but this installment is a worthy sequel. Highly recommended for those who love historical fiction set in wartime with lots of adventure. Many thanks to Minotaur for providing me with a copy to enjoy!
As with the first book, I thoroughly enjoyed Evelyne and David’s adventures and chemistry. While they are tasked with serious missions, there is a spark of fun and a lightness to their joint adventures which makes the books a joy to read. Couched in historical events and settings, it is evident that Julia Kelly has extensively researched her subject. I enjoyed the first book a little more because it was set in London during the blitz, but this installment is a worthy sequel. Highly recommended for those who love historical fiction set in wartime with lots of adventure. Many thanks to Minotaur for providing me with a copy to enjoy!
August 20, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park is the second book in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series. Evelyne, just returned to London from a top-secret espionage training program, is sent on an ‘easy’ first assignment. Thefts have been reported from a classified weapons think tank in Sussex and Evelyne just needs to perform a simple, covert inspection for any security weaknesses at the manor house the facility is located in. But there’s a war on and nothing is ever as simple as it seems.
This is another solid entry in the series from Julia Kelly. In fact, I thought it was a big improvement over the first one, which had the author’s usual strong writing and attention to character development, but suffered from a messy, overly complicated plot. In Betrayal at Blackthorn Park, the author still brought her historical fiction experience, but this time focused more on developing her mystery writing skills, which showed a lot of growth.
Something else I noticed is that, while there is an obvious attraction between Evelyne and David, the author seems to be wisely keeping that on the backburner for now. Romance has its place, but this mystery series is shaping up to be enjoyable on its own merits. I came for the mysteries and I appreciate that the author didn't do a genre bait-and-switch, like some other similar series I’ve tried.
I rate Betrayal at Blackthorn Park 4 ¼ stars and highly recommend it to anyone looking for historical mysteries or stories with strong, smart female protagonists. I’d like to note that I know a lot of people are burned out on WWII fiction, but this series gives a different perspective because of the nature of Evelyne and David’s job. It's worth giving it a try.
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park is the second book in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series. Evelyne, just returned to London from a top-secret espionage training program, is sent on an ‘easy’ first assignment. Thefts have been reported from a classified weapons think tank in Sussex and Evelyne just needs to perform a simple, covert inspection for any security weaknesses at the manor house the facility is located in. But there’s a war on and nothing is ever as simple as it seems.
This is another solid entry in the series from Julia Kelly. In fact, I thought it was a big improvement over the first one, which had the author’s usual strong writing and attention to character development, but suffered from a messy, overly complicated plot. In Betrayal at Blackthorn Park, the author still brought her historical fiction experience, but this time focused more on developing her mystery writing skills, which showed a lot of growth.
Something else I noticed is that, while there is an obvious attraction between Evelyne and David, the author seems to be wisely keeping that on the backburner for now. Romance has its place, but this mystery series is shaping up to be enjoyable on its own merits. I came for the mysteries and I appreciate that the author didn't do a genre bait-and-switch, like some other similar series I’ve tried.
I rate Betrayal at Blackthorn Park 4 ¼ stars and highly recommend it to anyone looking for historical mysteries or stories with strong, smart female protagonists. I’d like to note that I know a lot of people are burned out on WWII fiction, but this series gives a different perspective because of the nature of Evelyne and David’s job. It's worth giving it a try.
October 15, 2024
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park is a delightful cozy mystery and the second in the series featuring Evelyn Redfearn.
Newly trained as a spy, Evelyn is eager to help the cause in the precarious time of 1940 England as it is bombarded by German bombs. She falls into a mystery involving the clandestine manufacture of powerful bombs, and uses her intuition and dogged investigative skills to find the culprit who is tampering with the process. Meanwhile, her current boyfriend, David Poole, is suddenly assigned as her handler, complicating their relationship.
Evie is a likable protagonist—she is plucky, smart, and determined in spite of the challenges she faces to gain respect as a female spy in WWII London. When she and David work together as partners in crime-solving, they exhibit a “Nick and Nora” vibe.
Kelly is a good storyteller—the prose flows nicely and keeps the reader engaged in the plot. The conclusion leaves a large hanging clue—just begging for a sequel—and I can’t wait to read it!!
Thank you to Minotaur Press and NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Newly trained as a spy, Evelyn is eager to help the cause in the precarious time of 1940 England as it is bombarded by German bombs. She falls into a mystery involving the clandestine manufacture of powerful bombs, and uses her intuition and dogged investigative skills to find the culprit who is tampering with the process. Meanwhile, her current boyfriend, David Poole, is suddenly assigned as her handler, complicating their relationship.
Evie is a likable protagonist—she is plucky, smart, and determined in spite of the challenges she faces to gain respect as a female spy in WWII London. When she and David work together as partners in crime-solving, they exhibit a “Nick and Nora” vibe.
Kelly is a good storyteller—the prose flows nicely and keeps the reader engaged in the plot. The conclusion leaves a large hanging clue—just begging for a sequel—and I can’t wait to read it!!
Thank you to Minotaur Press and NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
September 30, 2024
Murder and treason!___3.5
Much as I like the exploits of Evelyne Redfern and David Poole this was just a bit bland.
Heaps of happenings but I felt bogged down in the chase to discover what the murdered engineer Sir Nigel Balram had been looking for.
Evelyne and David are sent to a very secret dirty tricks location in Sussex looking for something out of the ordinary when an apparent suicide turns up.
Their orders change somewhat. David was supposed to be handling Evelyne’s assignment.
Working out what happened was straight from one of my fav English detective novels
The culprit is finally trapped down. No surprise!
However we are left dangling on a cliff’s edge as the next adventure is anticipated
So, despite the not quite up to par of the first in the series I’m anxious to see what happens next.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
A St Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Much as I like the exploits of Evelyne Redfern and David Poole this was just a bit bland.
Heaps of happenings but I felt bogged down in the chase to discover what the murdered engineer Sir Nigel Balram had been looking for.
Evelyne and David are sent to a very secret dirty tricks location in Sussex looking for something out of the ordinary when an apparent suicide turns up.
Their orders change somewhat. David was supposed to be handling Evelyne’s assignment.
Working out what happened was straight from one of my fav English detective novels
The culprit is finally trapped down. No surprise!
However we are left dangling on a cliff’s edge as the next adventure is anticipated
So, despite the not quite up to par of the first in the series I’m anxious to see what happens next.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
A St Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
May 11, 2024
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly os a wonderful historical mystery that is the second book in the delightful Parisian Orphan series.
I really have enjoyed every novel by Ms. Kelly I have read thus far (this is my fifth) and I really, really liked its predecessor A Traitor in Whitehall last year, so I knew I had to read this one, too.
I had a void that was left when the Maggie Hope and Maisie Dobbs series completed this year, so I am so glad I found this series.
I really liked the character cast, especially Evelyn and David. I think the dialogue, development, and interactions really set this series apart from its counterparts. There was a nice mystery with a few twists that also kept my interest, but it was the characters, that sold me from book one onwards.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/1/24.
I really have enjoyed every novel by Ms. Kelly I have read thus far (this is my fifth) and I really, really liked its predecessor A Traitor in Whitehall last year, so I knew I had to read this one, too.
I had a void that was left when the Maggie Hope and Maisie Dobbs series completed this year, so I am so glad I found this series.
I really liked the character cast, especially Evelyn and David. I think the dialogue, development, and interactions really set this series apart from its counterparts. There was a nice mystery with a few twists that also kept my interest, but it was the characters, that sold me from book one onwards.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/1/24.
October 1, 2024
Wow! I loved this exciting second book in the Parisian Orphan series! Julia Kelly has written an outstanding historical mystery, well researched and fast paced. It has wonderful character development and a strong female protagonist. Newly trained agent Evelyne Redfern is assigned to Blackthorne Park to investigate the security of the facility and report to her handler, David Poole. Blackthorne has been requestioned by the British Government for weapons development and testing. Not long after her arrival the sound of a gunshot turns her investigation deadly when she discovers of one key scientists for the project dead in his office. With an impending visit by Winston Churchill to the facility, David joins Evelyn as the two race to uncover the secrets beneath the surface of Blackthorn Hall. This book delves a bit more into Evelyn's history, and the interaction between Evelyn and David definitely adds to the story. Although the second in the series, it works well as a standalone also. Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.
July 16, 2024
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park
By: Julia Kelly
Pub date: October 1, 2014
Publisher: Minotaur Books
5🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
This novel is 2nd in the Series. I was happy to see Evelyne Redforn’s character return.
Evelyne has graduated from her training program and is prepared to be a agent. Her first assignment has her doing a simple test at Blackthorn Park in the quiet countryside of Sussex. She is working with her handler David Poole who is a very by-the book, but utterly charming.
🖤
She will discover this assignment heats up when Winston Churchill is slated to checkout Blackthorn Park, which is more than meets the eye. There is important things happening and security is of the utmost importance. Adding to the mystery the chief engineer is found dead.
🖤
I was completely immersed in this story. Kelly has a unique gift to draw in her readers and make you feel absorbed in the time period, mystery and her characters.
I would be delighted for another novel about Evelyn Redforn.
🖤
Thank you Minotaur Books for the gifted eARC.
By: Julia Kelly
Pub date: October 1, 2014
Publisher: Minotaur Books
5🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
This novel is 2nd in the Series. I was happy to see Evelyne Redforn’s character return.
Evelyne has graduated from her training program and is prepared to be a agent. Her first assignment has her doing a simple test at Blackthorn Park in the quiet countryside of Sussex. She is working with her handler David Poole who is a very by-the book, but utterly charming.
🖤
She will discover this assignment heats up when Winston Churchill is slated to checkout Blackthorn Park, which is more than meets the eye. There is important things happening and security is of the utmost importance. Adding to the mystery the chief engineer is found dead.
🖤
I was completely immersed in this story. Kelly has a unique gift to draw in her readers and make you feel absorbed in the time period, mystery and her characters.
I would be delighted for another novel about Evelyn Redforn.
🖤
Thank you Minotaur Books for the gifted eARC.
May 17, 2024
The second book in Julia Kelly's Evelyne Redfern series is so bang down my alley! I adore Julia's evocative prose, fine character development, and tales you fall into headlong, and that the series takes place during such a critical time in WWII England hits my sweet spot. I loved reading more of the gripping adventures of Brit spy Evelyne and her partner David, and it eased the pain in my heart caused by the recent end to my two fav histfic series, Maggie Hope and Maisie Dobbs. Keep calm and spy on, Evelyne and David, and brava, Julia!
September 1, 2024
Second in a series, but I think new readers could easily jump in. The pacing is better in this story than the last but there’s less character development. New spy Evelyne is a Mary Sue, but she’s such a likable one. She did so much her handler David didn’t even have much to do. Still, I’m eager for the next installment where we might get more of Evie’s backstory.
I received an arc from NetGalley
I received an arc from NetGalley
July 10, 2025
4.5
david poole i will not beg you to be my husband, i will only ask you 39573938 more times 🥺🙏🏻💍
david poole i will not beg you to be my husband, i will only ask you 39573938 more times 🥺🙏🏻💍
September 9, 2024
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Julia Kelly, and MacMillan Audio for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Julia Kelly is back with another Evelyne Redferm story that keeps the thrills high and the historical fiction entertaining. Kelly has a great approach and uses a seemingly innocent protagonist to propel the story forward in the middle of the Second World War. After completing her spy craft studies, Evelyne is sent into the middle of a small English community before the arrival of the prime minister. What Evelyne discovers is an apparent suicide, with some odd clues that point towards murder. Who would have killed the man and for what reason? Evelyne will have to discover the truth before the arrival of Churchill or anyone else of importance. Kelly dazzles once more and kept me hooked until the very end.
After an exhausting spy school experience, former typist Evelyne Redfern is ready to help Britain however she can during the war effort. While she is eager to topple Nazi plots, she is sent on a security mission at Blackthorn Park in sleepy Sussex. This is not what Evelyne hoped or how she wanted to spend her time. Missions are meant to be exciting and clandestine, but this is still something undercover as she must keep the area safe before Prime Minister Churchill arrives. He will soon come to inspect a secret weapons research facility, key to the British war effort.
When Evelyne learns that her handler on this mission is none other than David Poole, she is doubly disappointed. He is not only as rigid an agent they come, but his dashing nature makes it harder for Evelyne to focus on the task at hand. She will have all the hurdles to overcome as a new trainee in the field. Before Evelyne and David can get used to one another, they are presented with a larger and more troubling mission. The Chief Engineer at the weapons facility is found dead in his office and what could be a suicide has hints of being something more sinister. A true mystery that must be wrapped up before the PM visit!
With the pressure high and the stakes even higher, Evelyne and David will have to gather all the evidence under cloak of darkness. They have a number of suspects to interview, though the murderer has been quite elusive. With the murderer on the loose and secrets sure to be spilled if they are not caught, the case is of the highest importance with little time to waste. Julia Kelly does well with this piece of historical fiction that is easily digestible for the curious reader.
I do enjoy historical fiction, mixing factual events with fictional accounts and characters. Julia Kelly does well to balance both and keep the story moving forward with ease. Her narrative approach helps things clip along as the story gets more intense. She is able to mix fact, fiction, and a little action to provide the reader something well worth their attention. As characters emerge throughout, they add depth and excitement to the mystery, where nothing is guaranteed throughout the experience. Plot points emerge and keep the reader guessing what is coming, as well as how it will all come together. I am eager to see where Evelyne and David will find themselves in the coming novels, as well as how Britain will remain safe with them on the prowl.
Kudos, Madam Kelly, for a wonderful reading experience.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Julia Kelly is back with another Evelyne Redferm story that keeps the thrills high and the historical fiction entertaining. Kelly has a great approach and uses a seemingly innocent protagonist to propel the story forward in the middle of the Second World War. After completing her spy craft studies, Evelyne is sent into the middle of a small English community before the arrival of the prime minister. What Evelyne discovers is an apparent suicide, with some odd clues that point towards murder. Who would have killed the man and for what reason? Evelyne will have to discover the truth before the arrival of Churchill or anyone else of importance. Kelly dazzles once more and kept me hooked until the very end.
After an exhausting spy school experience, former typist Evelyne Redfern is ready to help Britain however she can during the war effort. While she is eager to topple Nazi plots, she is sent on a security mission at Blackthorn Park in sleepy Sussex. This is not what Evelyne hoped or how she wanted to spend her time. Missions are meant to be exciting and clandestine, but this is still something undercover as she must keep the area safe before Prime Minister Churchill arrives. He will soon come to inspect a secret weapons research facility, key to the British war effort.
When Evelyne learns that her handler on this mission is none other than David Poole, she is doubly disappointed. He is not only as rigid an agent they come, but his dashing nature makes it harder for Evelyne to focus on the task at hand. She will have all the hurdles to overcome as a new trainee in the field. Before Evelyne and David can get used to one another, they are presented with a larger and more troubling mission. The Chief Engineer at the weapons facility is found dead in his office and what could be a suicide has hints of being something more sinister. A true mystery that must be wrapped up before the PM visit!
With the pressure high and the stakes even higher, Evelyne and David will have to gather all the evidence under cloak of darkness. They have a number of suspects to interview, though the murderer has been quite elusive. With the murderer on the loose and secrets sure to be spilled if they are not caught, the case is of the highest importance with little time to waste. Julia Kelly does well with this piece of historical fiction that is easily digestible for the curious reader.
I do enjoy historical fiction, mixing factual events with fictional accounts and characters. Julia Kelly does well to balance both and keep the story moving forward with ease. Her narrative approach helps things clip along as the story gets more intense. She is able to mix fact, fiction, and a little action to provide the reader something well worth their attention. As characters emerge throughout, they add depth and excitement to the mystery, where nothing is guaranteed throughout the experience. Plot points emerge and keep the reader guessing what is coming, as well as how it will all come together. I am eager to see where Evelyne and David will find themselves in the coming novels, as well as how Britain will remain safe with them on the prowl.
Kudos, Madam Kelly, for a wonderful reading experience.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
August 18, 2024
After the first book in this series hit my top ten favorite reads last year, Betrayal at Blackthorn Park quickly became one of my most-anticipated reads of 2024, and I was over the moon to get my hands on this one in advance. And let me tell you -- it absolutely lived up to expectations!
In this sequel, we find Evelyne Redfern and David Poole teamed up in the roles of handler and agent. Their first assignment? A simple security check at a secret weapons research and development facility. But when Evelyne discovers the chief engineer dead in his office, their simple assignment gets a little more complicated. And once again, Evelyne (and David) find themselves on the hunt for a murderer.
Historical mysteries are a favorite of mine, and Julia Kelly does a fantastic job transporting readers to 1940s, England. The writing is lovely, giving us settings that feel historically authentic and characters that you can't help but fall for. And despite the gravity of their wartime work (and the murdered man in the office) the story maintains a light and charming feel overall.
Evelyne is clever and, at times, impulsive, but with a strong knack for investigating -- and as a protagonist, she's a lot of fun to follow along with. Her relationship with David is equally enjoyable as we get all the tension and banter between two individuals trying to deny their affection for each other. Seeing Evelyne's skills evolve. as well as some new clues and details as to her backstory and life before, makes me all the more intrigued to see where this series goes in the future!
This series will certainly be a go-to favorite of mine and I look forward to however many more historical mysteries Julia Kelly has up her sleeve for these characters! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my gifted advance read!
In this sequel, we find Evelyne Redfern and David Poole teamed up in the roles of handler and agent. Their first assignment? A simple security check at a secret weapons research and development facility. But when Evelyne discovers the chief engineer dead in his office, their simple assignment gets a little more complicated. And once again, Evelyne (and David) find themselves on the hunt for a murderer.
Historical mysteries are a favorite of mine, and Julia Kelly does a fantastic job transporting readers to 1940s, England. The writing is lovely, giving us settings that feel historically authentic and characters that you can't help but fall for. And despite the gravity of their wartime work (and the murdered man in the office) the story maintains a light and charming feel overall.
Evelyne is clever and, at times, impulsive, but with a strong knack for investigating -- and as a protagonist, she's a lot of fun to follow along with. Her relationship with David is equally enjoyable as we get all the tension and banter between two individuals trying to deny their affection for each other. Seeing Evelyne's skills evolve. as well as some new clues and details as to her backstory and life before, makes me all the more intrigued to see where this series goes in the future!
This series will certainly be a go-to favorite of mine and I look forward to however many more historical mysteries Julia Kelly has up her sleeve for these characters! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my gifted advance read!
October 7, 2024
Another really fun and captivate mystery! I love Evelyn Redfern and her dramatic and secret shift into work as a spy. I love spy novels ESPECIALLY female spies and Evelyn is brave, smart, and so much fun to follow. I love how she and David work together but she really leads the investigation and takes risks to uncover the truth. She is not easily fooled or dissuaded from her pursuit. The combination of the time period, setting, and interesting characters - made watching Evelyn transform into spy and detective even more interesting. I was shocked by the reveal, all deceit involved in the coverup, and love how it all ended. I cannot wait for more!
Audiobook: I listened to and loved the audiobook as I had the first. This is a great narrator for this series.
Thanks to the publisher for a free audiobook copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
Audiobook: I listened to and loved the audiobook as I had the first. This is a great narrator for this series.
Thanks to the publisher for a free audiobook copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
September 8, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books for a complimentary copy of this novel!
This is the second novel in the Parisian Orphan series. I had a chance to review the first book in this series, A Traitor in Whitehall, last year! So of course I was excited when I saw the second book in this series up for review.
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park picks up not too long after the first book and WW2 is still ongoing. We see Evelyn Redfern coming back from an intense training program on how to be a proper spy and David Poole has just completed training on how to be a handler. As David and Evelyne’s first mission together, Evelyn is sent on a simple mission in the Sussex countryside where there is an anonymous report that parts are being stolen from a secret weapons research and development facility at Blackthorn Park. But not long after Evelyn begins to scope out the property, a death takes place. To make matters worse, Churchill is scheduled to tour the facility in a few days’ time. So, what was supposed to be a simple mission to gather information has now become a possible murder investigation. David Poole has now been called to come to the facility and along with Evelyn they must work together to solve the case before Churchill arrives. With the outcome of the war also at stake, Evelyn and David must race to untangle the lies and deception happening at Blackthorn Park. But when a second death occurs, it is clear someone is willing to do anything to keep their secrets hidden! Can they figure out everything in time?
I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy historical fiction mystery! I do hope there is a book 3 coming out! AVAILABLE October 1, 2024
This is the second novel in the Parisian Orphan series. I had a chance to review the first book in this series, A Traitor in Whitehall, last year! So of course I was excited when I saw the second book in this series up for review.
Betrayal at Blackthorn Park picks up not too long after the first book and WW2 is still ongoing. We see Evelyn Redfern coming back from an intense training program on how to be a proper spy and David Poole has just completed training on how to be a handler. As David and Evelyne’s first mission together, Evelyn is sent on a simple mission in the Sussex countryside where there is an anonymous report that parts are being stolen from a secret weapons research and development facility at Blackthorn Park. But not long after Evelyn begins to scope out the property, a death takes place. To make matters worse, Churchill is scheduled to tour the facility in a few days’ time. So, what was supposed to be a simple mission to gather information has now become a possible murder investigation. David Poole has now been called to come to the facility and along with Evelyn they must work together to solve the case before Churchill arrives. With the outcome of the war also at stake, Evelyn and David must race to untangle the lies and deception happening at Blackthorn Park. But when a second death occurs, it is clear someone is willing to do anything to keep their secrets hidden! Can they figure out everything in time?
I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy historical fiction mystery! I do hope there is a book 3 coming out! AVAILABLE October 1, 2024
December 31, 2024
In this second installment of the Evelyne
Redfern series, Evelyne takes on her
first official assignment following
her spy training to assist her country during WWII.
I'm enjoying this series very much, especially Evelyne she is just wonderful. The plots are engaging, and the mysteries are well thought out. The writing is a pleasure to read, and the banter and developing relationship between the main characters is delightful
I'm looking forward to more books in this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Redfern series, Evelyne takes on her
first official assignment following
her spy training to assist her country during WWII.
I'm enjoying this series very much, especially Evelyne she is just wonderful. The plots are engaging, and the mysteries are well thought out. The writing is a pleasure to read, and the banter and developing relationship between the main characters is delightful
I'm looking forward to more books in this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 12, 2024
WWII mystery. In this book, former typist Evelyne Redfern has completed her training as a spy and is sent on her first mission. While her first mission is supposed to be an easy one, of course things become complicated. I enjoy the historical setting, the slow-burn romance developing between Evelyne and her colleague David, and the intelligent and resourceful protagonist.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free e-ARC of this book.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free e-ARC of this book.
March 28, 2025
Another great Historical Fiction from Julia Kelly. Mystery and Romance is her thing and mine. Loved this novel and Julia's writing.
October 25, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I didn’t want it to end.
December 4, 2024
I enjoyed this much more than the first book in the series. Evelyne has completed her training and is now ready for her first assignment. What should be a straight forward investigation into thefts at a weapons and research facility soon turns into a murder investigation. With Churchill coming in just three days for an important demonstration of the weapons the facility has been developing, Evelyne and her partner David have a short amount of time and a plethora of suspects and motives to sift through. The resolution was somewhat predictable but I enjoyed seeing Evelyne and David finding their way as a team. The ending sets up a very interesting plot for the next book. I can’t wait to see where Evelyne finds herself next.
September 26, 2024
Thanks to Minotaur Books & NetGalley for a digital advance reader's copy. All comments and opinions are my own.
This is the second in the well-written series featuring Evelyne Redfern during World War II. I read #1 last year but I think you could easily start with this one. Then you’ll want to go back and also read A Traitor in Whitehall because Evelyne is the kind of engaging, intelligent character who makes any book a page-turner.
After completing her intense 6-week spy training program, Evelyne is sent as a field agent to perform a simple security test at Blackthorn Park, a top-secret research and development facility set up in a converted manor house in the British countryside. She soon discovers a dead body and is joined by David Poole, her handler and fellow agent. The two of them must solve the murder among a houseful of suspects, with only three days before the upcoming visit of Winston Churchill.
Witty dialogue, a bit of humor, lots of clues, some red herrings, suspense, danger, and intrigue with a touch of romance makes this an engaging “solve along” mystery. And I was delighted with the way the story ended as there’s the promise for book #3.
This is the second in the well-written series featuring Evelyne Redfern during World War II. I read #1 last year but I think you could easily start with this one. Then you’ll want to go back and also read A Traitor in Whitehall because Evelyne is the kind of engaging, intelligent character who makes any book a page-turner.
After completing her intense 6-week spy training program, Evelyne is sent as a field agent to perform a simple security test at Blackthorn Park, a top-secret research and development facility set up in a converted manor house in the British countryside. She soon discovers a dead body and is joined by David Poole, her handler and fellow agent. The two of them must solve the murder among a houseful of suspects, with only three days before the upcoming visit of Winston Churchill.
Witty dialogue, a bit of humor, lots of clues, some red herrings, suspense, danger, and intrigue with a touch of romance makes this an engaging “solve along” mystery. And I was delighted with the way the story ended as there’s the promise for book #3.
November 29, 2024
I was really looking forward to this second installment in the series, and while it was enjoyable overall I found the pacing dragged a bit at times.
September 16, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Oct. 1, 2024
“Betrayal at Blackthorn Park” is the second novel in the Evelyne Redfern (“The Parisian Orphan”) series of novels by historical fiction writer Julia Kelly. I loved Kelly’s “A Traitor in Whitehall” (the first novel in the series)and there was no doubt I was going to eagerly devour her new novel as well.
Former typist Evelyne Redfern has spent the last few months training to be a spy and now she has been called into action. Her first mission is to infiltrate the illustrious Blackthorn Park, a quiet manor house in Sussex, to search for a thief amongst its residents. To further her disappointment that she is not involved in something more exciting, Evelyne’s partner, David, accompanies her on this mission, but is serving as her supervisor. While at Blackthorn Park, however, Evelyne finds the chief engineer dead in his office, and then another body is found shortly after, both staged to look like suicides but Evelyne has a gut feeling that something more sinister is at work. With only days until the Prime Minister himself is coming to Blackthorn, Evelyne must race the clock to uncover what secrets Blackthorn holds within its walls.
The historical-female detective fiction that is “Blackthorn” had me intrigued from the start. I loved Evelyne in Kelly’s first novel and getting to know her was half the fun, so I would think twice before skipping the first entry in the series! Evelyne’s friends and coworkers and other characters from the previous book make an appearance, and I’m so grateful Kelly didn’t forget them (especially Evelyne’s best friend and roommate, Moira).
Kelly writes an exquisite murder mystery that fans of Agatha Christie will consume with fervour. Add to that the spunky, young, underestimated female spy that is our protagonist with some sprinkles of humor and intrigue, and Kelly takes historical fiction to the next level. I immediately connected with Evelyne in the first novel, and cheered for her throughout this one, as well.
“Blackthorn” was full of action, adventure, drama and mystery and I couldn’t help but turn the pages! Kelly has added her own flair to an inundated, often predictable detective fiction genre, and I can’t seem to get enough. This novel made obvious hints to another Redfern novel, and I will be keeping my eyes open for it!
Expected publication date: Oct. 1, 2024
“Betrayal at Blackthorn Park” is the second novel in the Evelyne Redfern (“The Parisian Orphan”) series of novels by historical fiction writer Julia Kelly. I loved Kelly’s “A Traitor in Whitehall” (the first novel in the series)and there was no doubt I was going to eagerly devour her new novel as well.
Former typist Evelyne Redfern has spent the last few months training to be a spy and now she has been called into action. Her first mission is to infiltrate the illustrious Blackthorn Park, a quiet manor house in Sussex, to search for a thief amongst its residents. To further her disappointment that she is not involved in something more exciting, Evelyne’s partner, David, accompanies her on this mission, but is serving as her supervisor. While at Blackthorn Park, however, Evelyne finds the chief engineer dead in his office, and then another body is found shortly after, both staged to look like suicides but Evelyne has a gut feeling that something more sinister is at work. With only days until the Prime Minister himself is coming to Blackthorn, Evelyne must race the clock to uncover what secrets Blackthorn holds within its walls.
The historical-female detective fiction that is “Blackthorn” had me intrigued from the start. I loved Evelyne in Kelly’s first novel and getting to know her was half the fun, so I would think twice before skipping the first entry in the series! Evelyne’s friends and coworkers and other characters from the previous book make an appearance, and I’m so grateful Kelly didn’t forget them (especially Evelyne’s best friend and roommate, Moira).
Kelly writes an exquisite murder mystery that fans of Agatha Christie will consume with fervour. Add to that the spunky, young, underestimated female spy that is our protagonist with some sprinkles of humor and intrigue, and Kelly takes historical fiction to the next level. I immediately connected with Evelyne in the first novel, and cheered for her throughout this one, as well.
“Blackthorn” was full of action, adventure, drama and mystery and I couldn’t help but turn the pages! Kelly has added her own flair to an inundated, often predictable detective fiction genre, and I can’t seem to get enough. This novel made obvious hints to another Redfern novel, and I will be keeping my eyes open for it!
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