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The Agency #4
Rivals in the City
In a tale steeped in action, romance, and the gaslit intrigue of Victorian London, Mary Quinn’s detective skills are pitted against a cunning and desperate opponent. Mary Quinn has a lot on her mind. James Easton, her longtime love interest, wants to marry her; but despite her feelings, independent-minded Mary hesitates. Meanwhile, the Agency has asked Mary to take on a dangerous case: convicted fraudster Henry Thorold is dying in prison, and Mary must watch for the return of his estranged wife, an accomplished criminal herself who has a potentially deadly grudge against James. Finally, a Chinese prizefighter has arrived in town, and Mary can’t shake a feeling that he is somehow familiar. With the stakes higher than ever, can Mary balance family secrets, conflicting loyalties, and professional expertise to bring a criminal to justice and find her own happiness?
304 pages, ebook
First published June 5, 2014
113 people are currently reading
3679 people want to read
About the author
Y.S. Lee
13 books976 followersY S Lee was born in Singapore, raised in Vancouver and Toronto, and lived for a spell in England. As she completed her PhD in Victorian literature and culture, she began to research a story about a girl detective in 1850s London. The result was her debut novel, The Agency: A Spy in the House. This won the Canadian Children’s Book Centre’s inaugural John Spray Mystery Award in 2011.
The Agency quartet continues with The Body at the Tower and The Traitor and the Tunnel, both of which were nominated for awards. Ying’s most recent novel, Rivals in the City, is the final book in the Agency series. All four books are published by Candlewick Press (US/Canada) and Walker Books (UK/Australia). The novels have also been translated into French, German, Spanish, Italian, Korean and Turkish.
On Goodreads, she rates only books she really liked or loved.
The Agency quartet continues with The Body at the Tower and The Traitor and the Tunnel, both of which were nominated for awards. Ying’s most recent novel, Rivals in the City, is the final book in the Agency series. All four books are published by Candlewick Press (US/Canada) and Walker Books (UK/Australia). The novels have also been translated into French, German, Spanish, Italian, Korean and Turkish.
On Goodreads, she rates only books she really liked or loved.
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July 6, 2014*edit #2*
OH MY GOD A COVER AND A SYNOPSIS
*edit #1*
There's going to be a fourth book???
OH MY GOD A COVER AND A SYNOPSIS
*edit #1*
There's going to be a fourth book???
January 14, 2018
I know that this week and weekend, I have been reading like a house on fire, but snowstorms and a brand new year is enough to set any bookworm aflame. I cannot believe that "The Agency " series has come to an end! Mary Quinn and James Easton certainly give other Victorian sleuths a run for their money. I have always loved the relationship between the two and I genuinely am saddened that they will not be around solving cases. However, Y.S.Lee ties everything up for her faithful readers, including some family history. I would highly recommend this YA Victorian mystery series for all ages.
Want to read
November 30, 201429/11/2014 EDIT: THE COVER!!! I've been living in a hole and only just realized it's gotten a US cover (three months late LOL) AND HOLY CRAP THE FIRST CHAPTER IS UP AND I'VE READ ONLY TEN PARAGRAPHS AND I HAVE FEELS ALREADY! *dies* Oh my gosh March 2015 please come SOON. :D
OH MY GOD YES A FOURTH BOOK. Please, more steamy James + Mary scenes. And I want to know what Octavius (<333) is up to. (He's my FAVOURITE. Not to be sacrilegious, but I totally wouldn't mind James getting jealous over some MaryxOctavius action... don't kill me. :D) But that redhead from book #3... James, I'm not gonna put up with you if you end up philandering, yo.
OH MY GOD YES A FOURTH BOOK. Please, more steamy James + Mary scenes. And I want to know what Octavius (<333) is up to. (He's my FAVOURITE. Not to be sacrilegious, but I totally wouldn't mind James getting jealous over some MaryxOctavius action... don't kill me. :D) But that redhead from book #3... James, I'm not gonna put up with you if you end up philandering, yo.
Want to read
March 24, 2012Should I just go ahead and rate this 5 stars now? A surer bet was never had...
March 2, 2017
This was another enjoyable installment in the series, bringing back some loose ends from the mystery in the first book, and answering some lingering questions about the fate of Mary's father. I'm sad that this is the last one in the series. Why can't we have more of Easton & Quinn? The Agency can still be there, right? I love the dynamic between James and Mary, and would love to read more about their partnership as it evolves.
August 20, 2014
3.5 stars - Spoilers
Really liked the main characters, they were both so normal compared to other YA heroines/heroes. Mary didn't constantly bang on about James or vice versa, they were separated from each other for most of the book but they did other things and had other interests. It was refreshing to read a heroine/hero who didn't whine non-stop about their love life or constantly feel sorry for themselves. They both just got on with their duties, they had lives outside of each other… Yet it was still clear that underneath it all they loved and respected each other, the author managed to convey that without the need of silly declarations and contrived/lame angst.
I liked the characters and setting more than the plot, the mystery with the bad guy/Mrs Thorold was decent enough but it got a bit cliched and predictable towards the end.
The entire series as a whole was entertaining, though the individual plots didn't blow me away, the well written characters/various relationships, and the fact that the books managed to hold my attention without resorting to love triangles or cheap melodrama more than made up for some of the more run-of-the-mill plots.
Mary and James were so normal compared to other YA characters, and that's saying something since they were both orphans, ran their own detective agency and at one point worked for royalty — yet they still managed to be more believable than most other YA characters. If only more YA books had realistic characters/relationships instead of the usual Mary Sues, Gary Stus, teen mansluts, ridiculous alpha teens, speshul snowflakes, martyrs, insta-love, abusive-love, wide-eyed dolts and manic-pixie-dream-girls.
Really liked the main characters, they were both so normal compared to other YA heroines/heroes. Mary didn't constantly bang on about James or vice versa, they were separated from each other for most of the book but they did other things and had other interests. It was refreshing to read a heroine/hero who didn't whine non-stop about their love life or constantly feel sorry for themselves. They both just got on with their duties, they had lives outside of each other… Yet it was still clear that underneath it all they loved and respected each other, the author managed to convey that without the need of silly declarations and contrived/lame angst.
I liked the characters and setting more than the plot, the mystery with the bad guy/Mrs Thorold was decent enough but it got a bit cliched and predictable towards the end.
The entire series as a whole was entertaining, though the individual plots didn't blow me away, the well written characters/various relationships, and the fact that the books managed to hold my attention without resorting to love triangles or cheap melodrama more than made up for some of the more run-of-the-mill plots.
Mary and James were so normal compared to other YA characters, and that's saying something since they were both orphans, ran their own detective agency and at one point worked for royalty — yet they still managed to be more believable than most other YA characters. If only more YA books had realistic characters/relationships instead of the usual Mary Sues, Gary Stus, teen mansluts, ridiculous alpha teens, speshul snowflakes, martyrs, insta-love, abusive-love, wide-eyed dolts and manic-pixie-dream-girls.
July 2, 2016
4.5
Oh how I love this series! I am so glad I got my hands on this book.
Honestly, it was very clever and I enjoyed reading it immensely. James and Mary are so perfect and witty. If this is the last book then it ended very well. If not, I would love to keep reading this series.
Y.S. Lee is an underrated author but I am so glad I discovered her books.
Oh how I love this series! I am so glad I got my hands on this book.
Honestly, it was very clever and I enjoyed reading it immensely. James and Mary are so perfect and witty. If this is the last book then it ended very well. If not, I would love to keep reading this series.
Y.S. Lee is an underrated author but I am so glad I discovered her books.
May 15, 2015
Rivals in the City wraps up Mary Quinn's adventures in a pretty satisfying manner; both Mary and James have grown a great deal and romantics will be over the moon at how far they have come in their oft-difficult relationship. The actual mystery at the heart of this final adventure, however (though it pains me to say it), fell far short of the one in the third book with all the danger and suspense-filled twists and turns.
The plot brings us full circle to the very beginning in A Spy in the House - the Thorolds are back, armed with a criminal scheme that would reverse their fortunes following the losses they suffered as a result of Mary and James' intervention in the first book. What should have been quite an exciting mystery (what with the threat towards Mary and James) turned out to be rather flat in execution. It started off quite well, with the tension dialled to maximum as Mamma Thorold slips through London, disguised and unseen, but quickly devolves into rather plodding developments: Mary spending much of the book tracking the movements of Angelica Thorold, keeping as far away from James as possible (for his own safety and hers, apparently), and... hanging out with the cousin that she never knew she had? The enforced separation of Mary and James meant the story was largely missing the humour and spark that comes from their interactions, which was always a highlight. The Chinese cousin subplot was useful in fleshing out Mary's past further as well as normalizing her life, but it could have been better tied to the plot. I kept thinking that it would be relevant to the mystery, only to find out eventually that it wasn't at all. It was just random and... there.
Despite the enforced separation, Mary and James' romance was downright swoon-worthy in this final installment. In marked contrast to the earlier books, their relationship here is marked by trust, mutual love, respect and understanding, developed over the course of their previous adventures. It is also realistic (a welcome change from YA romances, definitely) - monetary concerns, their shared detective agency plus Mary's love of independence and how marriage would change that, and so on - these are all obstacles they face and attempt to overcome. I was particularly impressed with James; how far he has come from the arrogant, smirking and quick-to-judge James Easton of old! His love and sincere respect for Mary is clear in his every action and word - it's simply delightful.
All in all, the romance and the growth of the main characters made this final book enjoyable despite a weak mystery - it might not be the perfect finish-with-a-bang finale that I had expected, but it was enjoyable and satisfying all the same.
The plot brings us full circle to the very beginning in A Spy in the House - the Thorolds are back, armed with a criminal scheme that would reverse their fortunes following the losses they suffered as a result of Mary and James' intervention in the first book. What should have been quite an exciting mystery (what with the threat towards Mary and James) turned out to be rather flat in execution. It started off quite well, with the tension dialled to maximum as Mamma Thorold slips through London, disguised and unseen, but quickly devolves into rather plodding developments: Mary spending much of the book tracking the movements of Angelica Thorold, keeping as far away from James as possible (for his own safety and hers, apparently), and... hanging out with the cousin that she never knew she had? The enforced separation of Mary and James meant the story was largely missing the humour and spark that comes from their interactions, which was always a highlight. The Chinese cousin subplot was useful in fleshing out Mary's past further as well as normalizing her life, but it could have been better tied to the plot. I kept thinking that it would be relevant to the mystery, only to find out eventually that it wasn't at all. It was just random and... there.
Despite the enforced separation, Mary and James' romance was downright swoon-worthy in this final installment. In marked contrast to the earlier books, their relationship here is marked by trust, mutual love, respect and understanding, developed over the course of their previous adventures. It is also realistic (a welcome change from YA romances, definitely) - monetary concerns, their shared detective agency plus Mary's love of independence and how marriage would change that, and so on - these are all obstacles they face and attempt to overcome. I was particularly impressed with James; how far he has come from the arrogant, smirking and quick-to-judge James Easton of old! His love and sincere respect for Mary is clear in his every action and word - it's simply delightful.
All in all, the romance and the growth of the main characters made this final book enjoyable despite a weak mystery - it might not be the perfect finish-with-a-bang finale that I had expected, but it was enjoyable and satisfying all the same.
July 19, 2016
I loved, loved, loved this final episode in the Mary Quinn mystery series. Having left the fractured Agency, Mary has set herself up as a private detective in partnership with her fiancé - but when an old enemy threatens them both, they're forced to dissolve the partnership and each work alone in real fear for the other's lives. At the same time, old lingering mysteries from Mary's family's past are finally solved - and this is really her absolute coming-of-age novel.
I love Mary's fierce intelligence and (completely era-appropriate) feminism. The central mystery in this book was my favorite of the mysteries in any of the books so far - compelling and fun and resonant of a really good Sherlock Holmes story. I also love the seamless way that issues of social justice are integrated into the story. And I looooove Mary's scenes with her fiancé, who is just so right for her! I only wish the series could go on forever - I'd love to read her further adventures. But this was a lovely, lovely end to the quartet.
I love Mary's fierce intelligence and (completely era-appropriate) feminism. The central mystery in this book was my favorite of the mysteries in any of the books so far - compelling and fun and resonant of a really good Sherlock Holmes story. I also love the seamless way that issues of social justice are integrated into the story. And I looooove Mary's scenes with her fiancé, who is just so right for her! I only wish the series could go on forever - I'd love to read her further adventures. But this was a lovely, lovely end to the quartet.
June 30, 2016
Cue the tears.
This is one of my favorite spy series. The perfect blend of mystery, romance, and England.
Things I love about this series:
1. It is culturally diverse. Even though everyone is not treated the same, it is old England, there are many different types of people.
2. The mystery is great, I did not anticipate the endings at all and I felt that I was actually discovering things at the same time as her. It was not one of those books where I sat there going WHAT ARE YOU DOING, HE IS OBVIOUSLY THE BAD GUY GEEZ.
3. Mary is awesome. She has a rough past but doesn't let it bring her down, instead she builds from it.
4. Uh James. Only him. That's it. He's the reason for this book.
5. Okay, maybe not the only reason, but Mary and James are so great. Definitely in the top couples, top boy, top why-can't-you-be-real-and-where-I-live???
6. The characters, all the characters, are amazing. Development, inclusion, everything.
7. FULL ON AWESOMENESS IN ENGLAND, IN AN AWESOME TIME, FILLED WITH WOMAN POWER. HOW MUCH BETTER COULD IT BE!!!
It's annoying that I only have books 1 and 4, I've read them all and I waaannnnttt thhheeemmm.
After finishing this book, awesomeness btw, I reread the pages in the first book where Mary and James first met. As first impressions go, how could you not love them, him, them together??
Just wait for their first ...date...
I shall recommend and watch as people fall madly in love as I have.
This is one of my favorite spy series. The perfect blend of mystery, romance, and England.
Things I love about this series:
1. It is culturally diverse. Even though everyone is not treated the same, it is old England, there are many different types of people.
2. The mystery is great, I did not anticipate the endings at all and I felt that I was actually discovering things at the same time as her. It was not one of those books where I sat there going WHAT ARE YOU DOING, HE IS OBVIOUSLY THE BAD GUY GEEZ.
3. Mary is awesome. She has a rough past but doesn't let it bring her down, instead she builds from it.
4. Uh James. Only him. That's it. He's the reason for this book.
5. Okay, maybe not the only reason, but Mary and James are so great. Definitely in the top couples, top boy, top why-can't-you-be-real-and-where-I-live???
6. The characters, all the characters, are amazing. Development, inclusion, everything.
7. FULL ON AWESOMENESS IN ENGLAND, IN AN AWESOME TIME, FILLED WITH WOMAN POWER. HOW MUCH BETTER COULD IT BE!!!
It's annoying that I only have books 1 and 4, I've read them all and I waaannnnttt thhheeemmm.
After finishing this book, awesomeness btw, I reread the pages in the first book where Mary and James first met. As first impressions go, how could you not love them, him, them together??
Just wait for their first ...date...
I shall recommend and watch as people fall madly in love as I have.
November 24, 2015
Y.S. Lee's series, the Agency, ranks upon my favorite book series of all time. I was hooked from the beginning and the series just kept getting better. Therefore, it pains me to say that Rivals in the City did not live up to the greatness of the series as a whole.
After following Lee's blogposts over the last years to find out when Rivals would finally be published, I was ready to make amends when I learned about the difficulty of the writing process. Nonetheless, I have to be honest and say that this is, in my opinion, the weakest book in the series. It is by no means a bad read but it also does not compare to the excellency especially of the third book.
Even though I was so careful about not expecting too much, I couldn't help wondering: where are the unexpected twists? Where is the humour? The lightness of flirtatious dialogue? In the light of Lee's previous work, this novel to me felt written and planned rather clumsily, which makes me incredibly sad.
I cannot recommend Rivals in the City, but do read the first three books of the Agency, they are truly amazing!
It breaks my heart but I cannot give this more than 2.5 stars.
After following Lee's blogposts over the last years to find out when Rivals would finally be published, I was ready to make amends when I learned about the difficulty of the writing process. Nonetheless, I have to be honest and say that this is, in my opinion, the weakest book in the series. It is by no means a bad read but it also does not compare to the excellency especially of the third book.
Even though I was so careful about not expecting too much, I couldn't help wondering: where are the unexpected twists? Where is the humour? The lightness of flirtatious dialogue? In the light of Lee's previous work, this novel to me felt written and planned rather clumsily, which makes me incredibly sad.
I cannot recommend Rivals in the City, but do read the first three books of the Agency, they are truly amazing!
It breaks my heart but I cannot give this more than 2.5 stars.
March 19, 2022
Second go around: I still kinda wanted to see more instances of banter between Mary and James. That was the only thing missing for me in this book. And maybe an epilogue where we got to sit inside their HEA a little bit longer. I’m a sucker for a HEA! 😍😍
____
2018: I was loathe to start this book... Because I knew it was the beginning of the end. :(
But, of course, it was awesome. Like all the other books in this series. However, I felt it wasn't as fast-paced or heart-thumpingly exciting as the previous volumes in the series. I still seriously love the characters and I wish there was more Mary and James interaction. Is it too much that they can't stand to be apart that they plan secret rendezvous? Haha. I just wanted more, more, MORE. The book was entirely too short! But a good wrap-up to a fantastic series.
____
2018: I was loathe to start this book... Because I knew it was the beginning of the end. :(
But, of course, it was awesome. Like all the other books in this series. However, I felt it wasn't as fast-paced or heart-thumpingly exciting as the previous volumes in the series. I still seriously love the characters and I wish there was more Mary and James interaction. Is it too much that they can't stand to be apart that they plan secret rendezvous? Haha. I just wanted more, more, MORE. The book was entirely too short! But a good wrap-up to a fantastic series.
July 6, 2015
AHAHAHHAHAHAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!! I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE MY LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Edit: After reading....
The action was a little lacking (Mary got easily beat by Mrs. T at the end which I found unlikely) but THE END AND THE PROPOSAL. THERE HAD BETTER BE ANOTHER ONE.
But to the actual review...this reads like a fourth book tacked on to a trilogy, but I like the series so much I can't say that I mind. I like the edition of Mary's cousin, I didn't like how Mary and James were seperated for basically the whole book (they have the best interaction)
Def. worth the read, as is the whole series!!
Edit: After reading....
The action was a little lacking (Mary got easily beat by Mrs. T at the end which I found unlikely) but THE END AND THE PROPOSAL. THERE HAD BETTER BE ANOTHER ONE.
But to the actual review...this reads like a fourth book tacked on to a trilogy, but I like the series so much I can't say that I mind. I like the edition of Mary's cousin, I didn't like how Mary and James were seperated for basically the whole book (they have the best interaction)
Def. worth the read, as is the whole series!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2015
The first thing I want to say is that if you haven't started reading this series yet and love mysteries plus romance, I don't know what you're doing with your life. I first fell in love with the quartet of books when James and Mary first found each other hiding in the same wardrobe, and I've enjoyed the first three books immensely. So I guess what I'm saying is...read it.
Now you may have noticed that I said I loved the first three books. I said that intentionally. This fourth book wasn't so great. The end of this book was a romantic, satisfying finale to the Mary Quinn mysteries, but it wasn't at all what I was hoping for. It didn't hold a candle to the last three novels, and soon enough I just wanted the book to end. There weren't enough James and Mary moments for my tastes, and the mystery didn't intrigue me as much as it usually would have - it wasn't as interesting and in-depth as the mysteries in the other books are.
Before starting the novel, I read a review somewhere that said that the author's writing in this book was terrible compared to the others in the series. I'll have to disagree. The writing and tone of the story is on par with Lee's other books; it was just the story that didn't do it for me. In Rivals in the City, we finally get the whole story on what really happened to Mary's father. We also meet a new person in this novel; he's actually a very interesting guy (no, he's not part of a love triangle, calm your horses). While I appreciated getting to know Mary's past, the grand revealing took up less than a chapter, and had little to no significance in the overall plot. I just wish it would have played a bigger part in the novel, if not the entire series. Maybe there could have even been a book where the main mystery was the one about her father?
Oh, and here's the funny thing. It seems that in the couple of years since I read the last book, I've gained an addiction to absolutely delicious characters. In fact, I think I've grown to enjoy the characters themselves more than the plot, and that may explain my lack of enthusiasm about this specific installment. Mary and James are wonderful characters, but this book focuses on the mystery aspect much more than it does the characters. Indeed, the characters sometimes seemed like nothing more than plot devices to carry out, well, the plot. And of course I wasn't exactly ecstatic about the lack of witty banter between James and Mary that has always been present in the other books.
I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that Mary and James weren't the I'm-totally-in-love-with-you type of couple right at the start of the novel. I tend to get bored of couples when reading their happily ever afters (I know, I suck), so my interest in their relationship didn't drop or anything. Still, there were few moments and conversations between the two, and though I loved how quaint their last conversation was, it wasn't enough. I'm used to witty banter between the couple, as well as them working on the current mystery together. In this book, however, James barely had a part. It was disheartening.
I may not have enjoyed this novel as much as I did the others, but I'm still as in love with the series as I was before reading this. Rivals in the City is the last book in the series, and the last few pages of the novel provided just enough closure to keep me happy. I can't see myself ever re-reading this book, but I hope someday I'll find the time for the other three. As for now, I'm extremely happy knowing that Mary and James will live on through more mysteries and obnoxiously adorable flirting even though I won't be there to see it.
Now you may have noticed that I said I loved the first three books. I said that intentionally. This fourth book wasn't so great. The end of this book was a romantic, satisfying finale to the Mary Quinn mysteries, but it wasn't at all what I was hoping for. It didn't hold a candle to the last three novels, and soon enough I just wanted the book to end. There weren't enough James and Mary moments for my tastes, and the mystery didn't intrigue me as much as it usually would have - it wasn't as interesting and in-depth as the mysteries in the other books are.
Before starting the novel, I read a review somewhere that said that the author's writing in this book was terrible compared to the others in the series. I'll have to disagree. The writing and tone of the story is on par with Lee's other books; it was just the story that didn't do it for me. In Rivals in the City, we finally get the whole story on what really happened to Mary's father. We also meet a new person in this novel; he's actually a very interesting guy (no, he's not part of a love triangle, calm your horses). While I appreciated getting to know Mary's past, the grand revealing took up less than a chapter, and had little to no significance in the overall plot. I just wish it would have played a bigger part in the novel, if not the entire series. Maybe there could have even been a book where the main mystery was the one about her father?
Oh, and here's the funny thing. It seems that in the couple of years since I read the last book, I've gained an addiction to absolutely delicious characters. In fact, I think I've grown to enjoy the characters themselves more than the plot, and that may explain my lack of enthusiasm about this specific installment. Mary and James are wonderful characters, but this book focuses on the mystery aspect much more than it does the characters. Indeed, the characters sometimes seemed like nothing more than plot devices to carry out, well, the plot. And of course I wasn't exactly ecstatic about the lack of witty banter between James and Mary that has always been present in the other books.
I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that Mary and James weren't the I'm-totally-in-love-with-you type of couple right at the start of the novel. I tend to get bored of couples when reading their happily ever afters (I know, I suck), so my interest in their relationship didn't drop or anything. Still, there were few moments and conversations between the two, and though I loved how quaint their last conversation was, it wasn't enough. I'm used to witty banter between the couple, as well as them working on the current mystery together. In this book, however, James barely had a part. It was disheartening.
I may not have enjoyed this novel as much as I did the others, but I'm still as in love with the series as I was before reading this. Rivals in the City is the last book in the series, and the last few pages of the novel provided just enough closure to keep me happy. I can't see myself ever re-reading this book, but I hope someday I'll find the time for the other three. As for now, I'm extremely happy knowing that Mary and James will live on through more mysteries and obnoxiously adorable flirting even though I won't be there to see it.
December 12, 2015
I just finished the third. Please let this not be a joke!!! I really want another!!!
July 29, 2021
I have this weird thing with TV shows and books. I often don't watch the last episode or read the last book in the series. I have to agree with The Doctor.
(I don't like endings, I would NEVER rip pages out of a book.)
That's why, even though I've loved this series for a long time, I've never read the last book. It's been on my Kindle since it was released. I decided the time had finally come, so I did a fun reread of the first three books and wrapped it up.
Mary and James have started a detective business on the side with Mary's reward from the Queen. They're also engaged to be married. Mary receives a visit from Anne, her former teacher, asking for help with an old villain - Mrs. Thorbold (book 1) is back in the picture. Mary is the best agent for the job because she worked for the Thorbolds.
I wished that I could've seen more of Mary and James together, but I did like following the twists and turns of their individual stories. Lee did a great job ending the series while still leaving it open if she ever wants to return to the lovely world she created.
(I don't like endings, I would NEVER rip pages out of a book.)
That's why, even though I've loved this series for a long time, I've never read the last book. It's been on my Kindle since it was released. I decided the time had finally come, so I did a fun reread of the first three books and wrapped it up.
Mary and James have started a detective business on the side with Mary's reward from the Queen. They're also engaged to be married. Mary receives a visit from Anne, her former teacher, asking for help with an old villain - Mrs. Thorbold (book 1) is back in the picture. Mary is the best agent for the job because she worked for the Thorbolds.
I wished that I could've seen more of Mary and James together, but I did like following the twists and turns of their individual stories. Lee did a great job ending the series while still leaving it open if she ever wants to return to the lovely world she created.
April 7, 2019
This is the final installment, Mary meets one of her long-lost relatives and captures the evil villain. The ending is very syrupy, they live happily ever after. A fun series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2015
2.75
As a random installment in the series, this wouldn't be a bad entry. Not my favorite, by sure, but I'd be ok with it.
As a finale, though, it left me a bit disappointed.
The main issue is just that the mystery itself was pretty weak. It didn't have much in the way of twists or even suspense, aside from one brief moment towards the end. It should've been a good mystery and a good finale, tying back into the first story as it does, but, no.
The second issue I had was that the mystery contrived to keep James and Mary away from each other for much of the story. Since it is there interactions - their banter and wit - which are the highlights of the story, this did the story no favors. Also, since the last book left us off with James and Mary officially joining forces, I was looking forward to seeing them really working together and how that dynamic would work.
Instead, most of the story revolves around Mary's feelings about her various relationships - her feelings about marriage and losing her independence (which is actually handled quite well and it was cool to see how much James has grown in the series), with Anne and Felicity, and with some long-lost family. (That last bit, especially, seemed rather tacked onto the story.)
Overall, it wasn't terrible, and I've certainly read worse finales, and what the series does well it continued to do well enough... but I would've like more out of the mystery, and the ending was a bit weirdly abrupt.
As a random installment in the series, this wouldn't be a bad entry. Not my favorite, by sure, but I'd be ok with it.
As a finale, though, it left me a bit disappointed.
The main issue is just that the mystery itself was pretty weak. It didn't have much in the way of twists or even suspense, aside from one brief moment towards the end. It should've been a good mystery and a good finale, tying back into the first story as it does, but, no.
The second issue I had was that the mystery contrived to keep James and Mary away from each other for much of the story. Since it is there interactions - their banter and wit - which are the highlights of the story, this did the story no favors. Also, since the last book left us off with James and Mary officially joining forces, I was looking forward to seeing them really working together and how that dynamic would work.
Instead, most of the story revolves around Mary's feelings about her various relationships - her feelings about marriage and losing her independence (which is actually handled quite well and it was cool to see how much James has grown in the series), with Anne and Felicity, and with some long-lost family. (That last bit, especially, seemed rather tacked onto the story.)
Overall, it wasn't terrible, and I've certainly read worse finales, and what the series does well it continued to do well enough... but I would've like more out of the mystery, and the ending was a bit weirdly abrupt.
August 7, 2014
I'm sad to see this series end. I think it is one of the most intelligently written and could continue for several more books and I'd be fine with that. But, alas, that is not to be.
The only problem I had with this story is that there was little interaction between Mary and James. It makes perfect sense for the plot and it had to be that way, but still, I did miss that. The two of them together are better than either of them apart. Isn't that how the best couples should be?
The mystery didn't feel as strong or compelling here, or maybe it just took longer to roll out. Mary does a lot of sleuthing, following, trying to figure out exactly what is going to happen and while not edge of your seat, it is well done. The action ramps up toward the end with all the characters coming together.
There are still bits left open, such as what will happen to the Agency, but that's okay.
I do with Mary had been able to have the things her father left for her, but she does get some clarity of who he is in this one. Again, there could be more in this line.
Without spoilers, I can't say much more other than this is one of my favorite series and you should read it.
The only problem I had with this story is that there was little interaction between Mary and James. It makes perfect sense for the plot and it had to be that way, but still, I did miss that. The two of them together are better than either of them apart. Isn't that how the best couples should be?
The mystery didn't feel as strong or compelling here, or maybe it just took longer to roll out. Mary does a lot of sleuthing, following, trying to figure out exactly what is going to happen and while not edge of your seat, it is well done. The action ramps up toward the end with all the characters coming together.
There are still bits left open, such as what will happen to the Agency, but that's okay.
I do with Mary had been able to have the things her father left for her, but she does get some clarity of who he is in this one. Again, there could be more in this line.
Without spoilers, I can't say much more other than this is one of my favorite series and you should read it.
Currently reading
October 4, 2014UPDATE FEB/25/14:
So Lee has given us a date for the Canadian release...February 2015. Which is all fine and dandy except NO I HAVE TO WAIT A YEAR.
Most excellent. So it seems that Lee has just finished the manuscript and has sent it to her editor to look at!
http://yslee.com/2013/07/writing-riva...
YUSSS. Can't wait for this one. Such a great series with many elements to it that I enjoy. (and more possible Mary + James steam)
So Lee has given us a date for the Canadian release...February 2015. Which is all fine and dandy except NO I HAVE TO WAIT A YEAR.
Most excellent. So it seems that Lee has just finished the manuscript and has sent it to her editor to look at!
http://yslee.com/2013/07/writing-riva...
YUSSS. Can't wait for this one. Such a great series with many elements to it that I enjoy. (and more possible Mary + James steam)
January 23, 2016
5 stars
Nice to see the Thorold's again. RIP to all of them. Glad Mary was able to meet her cousin. Hope her and James's detective business survives. Hope she and James have a long and happy life together!!!!
Nice to see the Thorold's again. RIP to all of them. Glad Mary was able to meet her cousin. Hope her and James's detective business survives. Hope she and James have a long and happy life together!!!!
Want to read
July 5, 2012So excited for this book and so nervous that James and Mary might split up or are fighting for most of the book!!!
July 26, 2023
not enough james. but best plot
May 6, 2018
In the fourth novel of The Agency series, we’re throwing it back to the Thorolds. Mrs. Thorold and Angelica return for Mary’s one last adventure, bringing the whole series into a nice circle. There’s a manhunt for Mrs. Thorold, and everyone is scrambling to figure out her schemes before she can put them into play.
The dual PoV between Mary and James also returns, which I was happy to see. But the happiness ends there. I'm heart-broken to have to do this. The first three books were all well-written, entertaining, and clever. I wanted this one to be the best of them all: five star quality. But it didn't work as well for me. The first few chapters were fine, but afterwards it all went downhill.
The premise was boring, and there wasn��t high stakes or much risk factor. The characters did stupid things, knowing full well they shouldn't have done them. These two factors combined to make a dull, bogus conflict that only existed because of the characters' shortcomings. So many elements in this story existed merely to perpetuate the conflict, and were aggravating as well as unjustifiable. It was really frustrating reading about characters who have proven to be quick, intelligent, and resourceful, make dumb decisions and face-palm mistakes.
As always, let me elaborate:
1. The incompetence of Scotland Yard.
Don’t worry, everyone. London’s prestigious police force is on this case, meaning it’ll all be taken care of and Mary will barely have to do a thing, instead devoting her time to James and other, far more entertaining things than mindlessly running around the city.
Yeah, I wish. London is lucky that Mary exists. Otherwise, crime would be rampant. No one else seems capable of doing anything when it comes to preventing crime. I understand that Mary uncovering mysteries and solving crime is the point. I didn't pick this up to read about Anne Treleaven's Quest for Justice. But in this story the reliance on Mary got out of control.
Scotland Yard knows women from the Agency are working on the case. Apparently to them this means they get to kick back and relax, because they did jack squat. In the previous books, this hasn't been an issue because the crimes Mary pursued were small or covert enough, it was acceptable that a major police force wasn't involved. Now the scale of this story's potential crime has Scotland Yard on high alert. Yet it's pointless for them to even know about the crime because they have no purpose in the story. As usual, Mary has to do everything herself. Only this time, it's a total cop out, because there's a long list of people who should/could be helping her.
And that brings me to my next point:
2. Anne and Felicity refusing to work together coupled by James and Mary refusing to work together.
Guys! Hasn't anyone told you that teamwork makes the dream work? Apparently not, because they all split themselves up.
Felicity has formed her own organization which is "competing" against the Agency, except that with Scotland Yard's inability to do absolutely anything, two detective agencies could certainly be of use in London. Or so it would seem.
Unfortunately Anne and Felicity are still harboring negative feeling towards one another, which means even though they are both working on the same case, all they can do is snub each other. Forget putting a ruthless criminal behind bars; all that matters is which organization solves the crime first.
I know, I know. The title of the book is "Rivals in the City." Obviously there's going to be a rivalry. I'm here to say that this did not work for me. I thought justice was more important to Anne and Felicity, regardless of their differing opinions about the Agency. So why couldn't they suck it up for LONDON'S SAKE and work together? Honestly, the issue at hand was bigger than them, affecting hundreds of people, and I would've thought that in such a time they would be willing to set aside differences and get sh*t done. It was petty, and in my opinion became an excuse for the crime to continue plaguing London.
Now onto Mary and James. I thought they would finally be working side by side at long last, but a few chapters in, they decide they should stop interacting altogether and completely avoid each other for the duration of the story, for safety reasons.
Why?! Why would they do that? First of all, they're supposed to be together because goddammit I've waited three whole books for this. And secondly, Mary had only just decided to accept James into her life and was growing accustomed to wanting to have him around. That was more interesting to me than yet another crime that needs solving. I think this book wasted an opportunity at exploring Mary's personal growth and building upon a relationship. I really would've liked to see the inner workings of Quinn & Easton, and Mary win over George and learn to balance her social life with her career and find that you can be married and still be independent. Total missed opportunity.
On a different note, their separation became problematic in the same way Anne and Felicity's divide was: no one was communicating with each other, so naturally no one knew wtf was going on. If they'd shared information or knew what one another was doing, they could've helped each other, and the problems would've been solved a lot quicker and easier. Annoying.
3. James and Mary's selective stupidity.
James's decision about whether he should take on the job at the Bank of England is akin to contemplating whether or not he should shoot himself in the foot.
James: *picks up gun* I know I shouldn't do this. It'll only bring trouble.
James: But my brother who knows absolutely nothing about the dangerous situation I'd potentially be in says I'd be a fool not to. So looks like I'd better keep up appearances. *clicks off safety*
James: But wait! I really don't have to do this. Nothing good will come of it and I know it's the wrong decision.
James: Oh well.
*pulls trigger*
Mary could have talked sense into him, but oh wait she wasn't allowed to be near him anymore.
Speaking of Mary, her shortcomings during the final scene were cringe-worthy. In the past, she's reminded me of a female version of Sherlock Holmes, crossed with Mulan. Unfortunately she does not live up to these epic characters this time around, when she
Even though everything worked out in the end, I feel the conflict was avoidable. It also wasn’t interesting, and in my opinion it was only two star worthy, but I’m giving three for old times sake. I still think the series as a whole is underrated and would recommend it. The fourth and final book is a bit of a letdown and just isn’t up to par compared to the others.
The dual PoV between Mary and James also returns, which I was happy to see. But the happiness ends there. I'm heart-broken to have to do this. The first three books were all well-written, entertaining, and clever. I wanted this one to be the best of them all: five star quality. But it didn't work as well for me. The first few chapters were fine, but afterwards it all went downhill.
The premise was boring, and there wasn��t high stakes or much risk factor. The characters did stupid things, knowing full well they shouldn't have done them. These two factors combined to make a dull, bogus conflict that only existed because of the characters' shortcomings. So many elements in this story existed merely to perpetuate the conflict, and were aggravating as well as unjustifiable. It was really frustrating reading about characters who have proven to be quick, intelligent, and resourceful, make dumb decisions and face-palm mistakes.
As always, let me elaborate:
1. The incompetence of Scotland Yard.
Don’t worry, everyone. London’s prestigious police force is on this case, meaning it’ll all be taken care of and Mary will barely have to do a thing, instead devoting her time to James and other, far more entertaining things than mindlessly running around the city.
Yeah, I wish. London is lucky that Mary exists. Otherwise, crime would be rampant. No one else seems capable of doing anything when it comes to preventing crime. I understand that Mary uncovering mysteries and solving crime is the point. I didn't pick this up to read about Anne Treleaven's Quest for Justice. But in this story the reliance on Mary got out of control.
Scotland Yard knows women from the Agency are working on the case. Apparently to them this means they get to kick back and relax, because they did jack squat. In the previous books, this hasn't been an issue because the crimes Mary pursued were small or covert enough, it was acceptable that a major police force wasn't involved. Now the scale of this story's potential crime has Scotland Yard on high alert. Yet it's pointless for them to even know about the crime because they have no purpose in the story. As usual, Mary has to do everything herself. Only this time, it's a total cop out, because there's a long list of people who should/could be helping her.
And that brings me to my next point:
2. Anne and Felicity refusing to work together coupled by James and Mary refusing to work together.
Guys! Hasn't anyone told you that teamwork makes the dream work? Apparently not, because they all split themselves up.
Felicity has formed her own organization which is "competing" against the Agency, except that with Scotland Yard's inability to do absolutely anything, two detective agencies could certainly be of use in London. Or so it would seem.
Unfortunately Anne and Felicity are still harboring negative feeling towards one another, which means even though they are both working on the same case, all they can do is snub each other. Forget putting a ruthless criminal behind bars; all that matters is which organization solves the crime first.
I know, I know. The title of the book is "Rivals in the City." Obviously there's going to be a rivalry. I'm here to say that this did not work for me. I thought justice was more important to Anne and Felicity, regardless of their differing opinions about the Agency. So why couldn't they suck it up for LONDON'S SAKE and work together? Honestly, the issue at hand was bigger than them, affecting hundreds of people, and I would've thought that in such a time they would be willing to set aside differences and get sh*t done. It was petty, and in my opinion became an excuse for the crime to continue plaguing London.
Now onto Mary and James. I thought they would finally be working side by side at long last, but a few chapters in, they decide they should stop interacting altogether and completely avoid each other for the duration of the story, for safety reasons.
Why?! Why would they do that? First of all, they're supposed to be together because goddammit I've waited three whole books for this. And secondly, Mary had only just decided to accept James into her life and was growing accustomed to wanting to have him around. That was more interesting to me than yet another crime that needs solving. I think this book wasted an opportunity at exploring Mary's personal growth and building upon a relationship. I really would've liked to see the inner workings of Quinn & Easton, and Mary win over George and learn to balance her social life with her career and find that you can be married and still be independent. Total missed opportunity.
On a different note, their separation became problematic in the same way Anne and Felicity's divide was: no one was communicating with each other, so naturally no one knew wtf was going on. If they'd shared information or knew what one another was doing, they could've helped each other, and the problems would've been solved a lot quicker and easier. Annoying.
3. James and Mary's selective stupidity.
James's decision about whether he should take on the job at the Bank of England is akin to contemplating whether or not he should shoot himself in the foot.
James: *picks up gun* I know I shouldn't do this. It'll only bring trouble.
James: But my brother who knows absolutely nothing about the dangerous situation I'd potentially be in says I'd be a fool not to. So looks like I'd better keep up appearances. *clicks off safety*
James: But wait! I really don't have to do this. Nothing good will come of it and I know it's the wrong decision.
James: Oh well.
*pulls trigger*
Mary could have talked sense into him, but oh wait she wasn't allowed to be near him anymore.
Speaking of Mary, her shortcomings during the final scene were cringe-worthy. In the past, she's reminded me of a female version of Sherlock Holmes, crossed with Mulan. Unfortunately she does not live up to these epic characters this time around, when she
Even though everything worked out in the end, I feel the conflict was avoidable. It also wasn’t interesting, and in my opinion it was only two star worthy, but I’m giving three for old times sake. I still think the series as a whole is underrated and would recommend it. The fourth and final book is a bit of a letdown and just isn’t up to par compared to the others.
January 12, 2023
A smashing conclusion to a fantastic series. I loved the relationship between Mary and James in this last installment, but even better was Mary's introduction to , which was both touching and quite an interesting addition to the story. What I wouldn't give for a peek into the lives of Mary and James a few years down the road...or even !
July 17, 2020
Such an epic conclusion.
I have really enjoyed reading these books. It was interesting reading about a spy agency set in the victorian era.
Mary and Jame's relationship in this book was all I could have asked for. They touched us for so long. dodging around their feelings. But in this book we finally got to see them get married.
I have really enjoyed reading these books. It was interesting reading about a spy agency set in the victorian era.
Mary and Jame's relationship in this book was all I could have asked for. They touched us for so long. dodging around their feelings. But in this book we finally got to see them get married.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2024
I cannot say enough good things about this series and you have no idea my dismay at finding out it was only four books. I had hoped that there was going to be a whole anthology of series on this one. They were all so good I love all the characters so much and they really pulled me in! I will forever love Mary Quinn and I think one of my favorite male characters in a book was Jamrs Eastman.
May 29, 2018
This last addition felt more like filler than a conclusive ending. The mystery/detective element wasn't as strong this time as it was simply solved and there wasn't really any high stakes or tension for me as there was in the previous books.
However, it was nice to revisit old characters and I always love Mary and James. They are so cute together. It's also nice Mary actually has a real family connection now to build and grow upon as time goes by.
However, it was nice to revisit old characters and I always love Mary and James. They are so cute together. It's also nice Mary actually has a real family connection now to build and grow upon as time goes by.
March 5, 2020
Perfect ending to the series. I cried.
May 12, 2023
A nice conclusion to the series! I wish there had been more development with the series overall regarding the Agency and the MCs’ relationship. Entertaining and glad I finished it! 3.5 stars
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