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Secrets Of Malta
Margarita, a young singer in a Valletta nightclub, has seen her former lover Henry Dunn only once since breaking off their affair. His wife Vera, an enigmatic archaecologist, arrives at the club to tell her that Henry has disappeared, presumed dead. Whilst investigating, Margarita stumbles upon the hunt for a notorious and dangerous spy: Nero.
As an unlikely bond develops between the two women, and strange secrets emerge, an urgent quest to unmask Nero starts- before he can enact a deadly plan that may threaten the course of the war.
As an unlikely bond develops between the two women, and strange secrets emerge, an urgent quest to unmask Nero starts- before he can enact a deadly plan that may threaten the course of the war.
400 pages, Paperback
Published February 29, 2024
31 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 4, 2024
The first 60 percent of this book is pretty slow but if you hang in there, that third act is worth it! I would recommend this book to people who love history, historical fiction and enigmatic, morally grey female characters.
March 8, 2024
Cecily Blench was a new author to me prior to reading Secrets of Malta but after finishing this brilliant book she is definitely on my reading radar. I will certainly be looking out for more books by her in the future and I will make sure to go back and read her debut, The Long Journey Home, at some stage. The various settings throughout the book, Malta, Syria and Italy come alive off the pages thanks to the vivid, evocative and detailed descriptions from the author and all this adds to the fantastic plot which has you guessing and on the edge of your seat right until the final turn of the page. Never having been to any of the aforementioned countries, I felt through the glorious descriptions that I was there with the characters Vera and Margarita and I could picture where they were and what they were doing so clearly in my head. The heat, the smells, the vistas and the danger they were experiencing radiated from the pages and combined with a very clever and expertly devised plot I was hooked from beginning to end.
Secrets of Malta is a dual timeline story set in 1926 in Syria and 1943 in Malta. The plot deftly moves back and forth between the two periods and the reader can never take anything at face value although it took me some time to realise this as I thought I had it all figured out at the halfway point when in fact I was completely and utterly wrong. To be honest, I was thinking how can the author have given it away especially as there was over half of the book still to go? I was pleasantly surprised to have been incorrect and in fact it only added to my enjoyment of the story and had me turning the pages even quicker than I already had been. Clichéd as it may seem this was a real page turner packed with so many twists and red herrings that you needed to have your wits about you in order to connect the dots to uncover the truth as to what was actually going on. Even reading the final page will bring a smile to your face as it was so cleverly done and to be honest in my mind it did leave room for a sequel if the author wished to write one as I feel there is a certain character who still has a lot more to share.
It’s very difficult to say much about this book without giving away key details that would ruin the plot and spoil the enjoyment for others but suffice to say it is detailed and complex and the characters are playing an elaborate game in which they are players and pawns being moved around on the board in a much bigger game. That being World War Two. Intelligence, secrets, mystery, danger, allegiances and punishments are all themes that feature heavily and with one misstep the whole game could be up for anyone involved. I felt I was on a rollercoaster ride with numerous ups and downs where things veered off in one direction only for one statement to have it change gear and have me venture to a completely different mindset and opinion. I think that’s why I loved this book so much. The fact that I never knew what was going to happen. It wasn’t predictable in any sense of the word and absolutely no one could be trusted. It was completely different from any of the WW2 books that I have read recently and it is so refreshing to read something new and exciting in a genre that I tend too read too much of and at times I can become fatigued with.
March 1943, Whitehall, London. There is information that there is a leak within the intelligence system in Malta. A German spy named Nero who has evaded capture for decades is once again at play and with the reinvasion of Europe on the horizon the British can’t afford to have a double agent within their midst especially one as dangerous as Nero. Nero is infamous within the intelligence circles and has great power and the capability of assuming many faces. He is ruthless, ambitious and a master spy who must be stopped before he can wreak even more havoc. Dennis Pratchett is sent to Malta to investigate and there he meets Roger Wilson who takes things personally as he has a son away interned in Asia. The pair set about uncovering who Nero could be and with the ultimate goal of capturing him once and for all.I felt there was a certain aspect to Pratchett’s storyline that was there and eluded to but never developed more even though I wanted it to. It was so tantalising within reach but there were several factors stopping it from occurring. Even by the end of the book, I was still wishing that this could and would occur but I was left slightly disappointed. Not that it ruined the story at all as it was only a small part but still I was desperate for it to happen.
Margarita works in the Phoenix Club in Valetta as the island slowly starts to get over the bombardment it suffered from the Germans. The war is far from over and danger lurks around every corner but there is a sense that a small breather can be taken whilst continuing with war work and protecting the citizens of Malta. Margarita is a civilian trying to earn a living but she quickly becomes caught up in the web that develops fairly quickly over the first quarter of the book. She is engaged to Arthur who is away on a submarine. She lives in constant fear that he will be taken from her and things get personal very quickly as she becomes embroiled in the dangerous manhunt for Nero. Initially, there is an air of innocence surrounding Margarita but that quickly changes once she realises the importance and the danger of what she becomes caught up in. Her former lover Henry with whom she had an affair with not realising that he was married has gone missing. Has he been kidnapped or murdered?
Henry’s wife Vera, a prominent archaeologist, comes looking for answers and right from the moment Margarita meets her she is drawn to his woman who has such an intriguing and enigmatic aura surrounding her. Just what is Vera up to as there is clearly a lot more to her than meets the eye. Who is she working for and the fact she doesn’t seem to be torn apart with anguish as to the whereabouts of her husband has Margarita questioning just what is going on? The reader quickly comes to understand that there is a lot more going on than the disappearance of a man and that questions need to be asked and fast as soon everything is spiralling out of control and Margarita is involved in something much bigger than she had ever thought possible.
Vera was an amazing and accomplished character who was like a chameleon. One minute I loved her, the next I was appalled at some of the things she did and she remained very elusive and difficult to really get inside her head and heart. Vera’s story slowly comes to light as we flash back and forth between Malta and Syria in 1926 where she is taking part in a dig in the desert with Professor Curzon. I thoroughly enjoyed the chapters set during this time as it gave a real glimpse into the past and I slowly started to comprehend that the past held many vital clues to the events ongoing in the present. As to how it all connected I couldn’t quite figure it out and as I have said I was wrong on many accounts in the opinions and decisions I made whilst reading. Vera was an incredibly well written character but at the same time she didn’t reveal as much of herself as I would have liked. I wanted her to form a strong friendship with Margarita as they appeared to be allies with the same cause. But knowing the way this book was developing I just couldn’t put any faith in anything that was said or done.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with this book as I expected it to be the usual World War Two historical fiction book with the same or similar storylines to what I have read time and time again. Instead, I got a whole lot more with mystery, intrigue, suspense and manipulation at its centre. Secrets of Malta would make a great film or drama series. I for one would definitely watch it .A brilliant and tightly woven plot combined with strong female characters make for a magnificent read and one which I would highly recommend.
Secrets of Malta is a dual timeline story set in 1926 in Syria and 1943 in Malta. The plot deftly moves back and forth between the two periods and the reader can never take anything at face value although it took me some time to realise this as I thought I had it all figured out at the halfway point when in fact I was completely and utterly wrong. To be honest, I was thinking how can the author have given it away especially as there was over half of the book still to go? I was pleasantly surprised to have been incorrect and in fact it only added to my enjoyment of the story and had me turning the pages even quicker than I already had been. Clichéd as it may seem this was a real page turner packed with so many twists and red herrings that you needed to have your wits about you in order to connect the dots to uncover the truth as to what was actually going on. Even reading the final page will bring a smile to your face as it was so cleverly done and to be honest in my mind it did leave room for a sequel if the author wished to write one as I feel there is a certain character who still has a lot more to share.
It’s very difficult to say much about this book without giving away key details that would ruin the plot and spoil the enjoyment for others but suffice to say it is detailed and complex and the characters are playing an elaborate game in which they are players and pawns being moved around on the board in a much bigger game. That being World War Two. Intelligence, secrets, mystery, danger, allegiances and punishments are all themes that feature heavily and with one misstep the whole game could be up for anyone involved. I felt I was on a rollercoaster ride with numerous ups and downs where things veered off in one direction only for one statement to have it change gear and have me venture to a completely different mindset and opinion. I think that’s why I loved this book so much. The fact that I never knew what was going to happen. It wasn’t predictable in any sense of the word and absolutely no one could be trusted. It was completely different from any of the WW2 books that I have read recently and it is so refreshing to read something new and exciting in a genre that I tend too read too much of and at times I can become fatigued with.
March 1943, Whitehall, London. There is information that there is a leak within the intelligence system in Malta. A German spy named Nero who has evaded capture for decades is once again at play and with the reinvasion of Europe on the horizon the British can’t afford to have a double agent within their midst especially one as dangerous as Nero. Nero is infamous within the intelligence circles and has great power and the capability of assuming many faces. He is ruthless, ambitious and a master spy who must be stopped before he can wreak even more havoc. Dennis Pratchett is sent to Malta to investigate and there he meets Roger Wilson who takes things personally as he has a son away interned in Asia. The pair set about uncovering who Nero could be and with the ultimate goal of capturing him once and for all.I felt there was a certain aspect to Pratchett’s storyline that was there and eluded to but never developed more even though I wanted it to. It was so tantalising within reach but there were several factors stopping it from occurring. Even by the end of the book, I was still wishing that this could and would occur but I was left slightly disappointed. Not that it ruined the story at all as it was only a small part but still I was desperate for it to happen.
Margarita works in the Phoenix Club in Valetta as the island slowly starts to get over the bombardment it suffered from the Germans. The war is far from over and danger lurks around every corner but there is a sense that a small breather can be taken whilst continuing with war work and protecting the citizens of Malta. Margarita is a civilian trying to earn a living but she quickly becomes caught up in the web that develops fairly quickly over the first quarter of the book. She is engaged to Arthur who is away on a submarine. She lives in constant fear that he will be taken from her and things get personal very quickly as she becomes embroiled in the dangerous manhunt for Nero. Initially, there is an air of innocence surrounding Margarita but that quickly changes once she realises the importance and the danger of what she becomes caught up in. Her former lover Henry with whom she had an affair with not realising that he was married has gone missing. Has he been kidnapped or murdered?
Henry’s wife Vera, a prominent archaeologist, comes looking for answers and right from the moment Margarita meets her she is drawn to his woman who has such an intriguing and enigmatic aura surrounding her. Just what is Vera up to as there is clearly a lot more to her than meets the eye. Who is she working for and the fact she doesn’t seem to be torn apart with anguish as to the whereabouts of her husband has Margarita questioning just what is going on? The reader quickly comes to understand that there is a lot more going on than the disappearance of a man and that questions need to be asked and fast as soon everything is spiralling out of control and Margarita is involved in something much bigger than she had ever thought possible.
Vera was an amazing and accomplished character who was like a chameleon. One minute I loved her, the next I was appalled at some of the things she did and she remained very elusive and difficult to really get inside her head and heart. Vera’s story slowly comes to light as we flash back and forth between Malta and Syria in 1926 where she is taking part in a dig in the desert with Professor Curzon. I thoroughly enjoyed the chapters set during this time as it gave a real glimpse into the past and I slowly started to comprehend that the past held many vital clues to the events ongoing in the present. As to how it all connected I couldn’t quite figure it out and as I have said I was wrong on many accounts in the opinions and decisions I made whilst reading. Vera was an incredibly well written character but at the same time she didn’t reveal as much of herself as I would have liked. I wanted her to form a strong friendship with Margarita as they appeared to be allies with the same cause. But knowing the way this book was developing I just couldn’t put any faith in anything that was said or done.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with this book as I expected it to be the usual World War Two historical fiction book with the same or similar storylines to what I have read time and time again. Instead, I got a whole lot more with mystery, intrigue, suspense and manipulation at its centre. Secrets of Malta would make a great film or drama series. I for one would definitely watch it .A brilliant and tightly woven plot combined with strong female characters make for a magnificent read and one which I would highly recommend.
July 14, 2024
3.5
I decided to read it on my second day in Malta. Just to know better about the country. It wasn't like that because it isn't a book about "actual life in Malta" of course, but I really enjoyed.
It has an enteresting story about world historical events, and the woman power implied in this book was a surprise, for me.
I decided to read it on my second day in Malta. Just to know better about the country. It wasn't like that because it isn't a book about "actual life in Malta" of course, but I really enjoyed.
It has an enteresting story about world historical events, and the woman power implied in this book was a surprise, for me.
December 1, 2024
I found the beginning interesting then it slowed down , I enjoyed the premise of the story and found the twists worth getting to the end.Reading her research made me want to look further into some of the subject matter.
June 28, 2024
Secrets of Malta is an enthralling spy novel full of mystery, intrigue and suspense. During World War II, Malta was essential to the Allied war effort but it was seen as a very real danger to Germany and Italy being so close to Italy and the island suffered repeated bombardment.
I don’t want to spoil the story by giving away vital plot lines but it is definitely a gripping page-turner with plenty of twists. Delivered as a dual timeline the story moves effortlessly between Syria in 1926 and Malta in 1943. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy WWII historical fiction.
I don’t want to spoil the story by giving away vital plot lines but it is definitely a gripping page-turner with plenty of twists. Delivered as a dual timeline the story moves effortlessly between Syria in 1926 and Malta in 1943. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy WWII historical fiction.
August 26, 2024
This was a really good historical fiction audiobook which left me with a bit of a book hangover, something that I was expecting at all.
The synopsis states that it’s set on the island of Malta in 1943, but it’s actually a dual timeline story also set in 1926 as well. The 1926 timeline features a much younger Vera, starting out as a archaeologist who travels to the Middle East in search of ancient treasures, with a predominately male group from England.
The two timelines alternate until Margarita and Vera’s stories come together in Malta in 1943. I enjoyed both timelines, but I think that the 1926 story had a bit more edge to it.
I loved the Middle Eastern setting and found the archaeology quite exciting too. That’s not to say that the 1943 story was boring, far from it, as there were some extremely tense and dark moments, especially during the hunt for Nero, the Nazi spy.
There were some excellent twists throughout, and when a reveal came later on in the book I was pleasantly surprised. It was one of those books that kept me guessing right up until the very end of the book.
Helen Keeley’s narration was good, but I did find that some of her female voices grated on me at times. Fortunately her portrayal of the main characters was excellent.
Recommended if you enjoy historical fiction set in WW2.
The synopsis states that it’s set on the island of Malta in 1943, but it’s actually a dual timeline story also set in 1926 as well. The 1926 timeline features a much younger Vera, starting out as a archaeologist who travels to the Middle East in search of ancient treasures, with a predominately male group from England.
The two timelines alternate until Margarita and Vera’s stories come together in Malta in 1943. I enjoyed both timelines, but I think that the 1926 story had a bit more edge to it.
I loved the Middle Eastern setting and found the archaeology quite exciting too. That’s not to say that the 1943 story was boring, far from it, as there were some extremely tense and dark moments, especially during the hunt for Nero, the Nazi spy.
There were some excellent twists throughout, and when a reveal came later on in the book I was pleasantly surprised. It was one of those books that kept me guessing right up until the very end of the book.
Helen Keeley’s narration was good, but I did find that some of her female voices grated on me at times. Fortunately her portrayal of the main characters was excellent.
Recommended if you enjoy historical fiction set in WW2.
August 15, 2025
Set in 1943 in Malta and 1926 in Syria this book follows 2 women one an archaeologist and the other a night club singer as they navigate the world of spies as WWII wages on. I have to say this book gave me more than I thought going in, I did not realize that part of the book was set on an archaeological dig in Syria, layer in visits to Italy, Tunisia and Egypt there was lots to learn and absorb about aspects of WWII I have not read much about. Overall glad I read this book.
February 22, 2025
Finished reading: February 21st 2025
"Perhaps it was just the enemy playing games. But she knew, with a fiery certainty, that it was not a game. Someone from those years had found her."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Zaffre in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
August 31, 2024
The world war two based detective novel focuses on the search for the identity of Nero, the super spy who seems to be working for german intelligence. Who’s Nero? Blench really plays with leaving the reader with multiple choices: Schulster, Curzon, Mo, Vera….
The mystery also arises from these shifts in time that occur in almost every chapter, we travel both in time and space, to Syria in 1926, then to Malta during the war, or also elsewhere. This technique used by Blench makes the reader himself a detective: with the book, a collage of information and events, we too enter the logic of the investigation. And coincidentally, time changes happen just when something important is supposed to happen (suspenseeeee).
Many critics insist on the “core friendship” between Vera and Margarita. My take on it is that a real friendship never existed. There has always been an unbalanced relationship where Vera was superior in every way. This situation is unalterable: even during the last conversation, Vera seems to have the upper hand, with that provocative question « Have I ? ». The truth is that if Margarita had really been similar to Vera, she would have killed her and taken Nero's identity, exactly as Vera did. But this didn't happen, Margarita is naive and helpless and would have gotten into trouble several times if it weren't for the protection given by Wilson and Pratchett.
Even insisting on the fact that they are similar due to their experience in love with an older man doesn't make any sense: Vera did it for power, money, success; Margarita because the man seduced her, and without saying no she became subjugated.
Vera and Margarita, former almost-rival in love, end up being forever separated after months of what someone call a friendship.
Is this story feminist and emancipating women? I'm not entirely sure. To answer, I’ll analyse the actions of the two women.
Margarita’s dream is to marry Arthur and move in his cottage in England, she spends her days waiting for him like a dog waiting for its owner. The few initiatives she will take in the investigative field will also be, in part, for her future husband. Furthermore, there is little equality between man and woman even when she decides to be Henry's lover, one among many lovers. Margarita definitely doesn’t emancipate herself, otherwise she would have sung and Made a career a lot more, or she would have entered the intelligence or wathever.
Is Vera a feminist? The question is even more complex. Absolutely not in Syria, she herself says she loses her mind over Curzon, and becomes leader of the archaeological site only after the professor allows her to. In the core scene of the Syrian episode, the symbolic position on the vacant scaffolding Curzon above and Vera below at a certain point reverses; but it is not to be interpreted as Vera’s emancipation, it’s only a desire for revenge. The vengeful spirit adds to his lust for power creating a hellish mix. Feminism is equality between men and women, whereas Vera wants to be superior, superior to everyone.
I appreciated the ”note of the author ” at the end of the novel allowing one to understand the origin of facts told in the plot. It’s something that should always be there and that is missing in most of historical fictions.
The mystery also arises from these shifts in time that occur in almost every chapter, we travel both in time and space, to Syria in 1926, then to Malta during the war, or also elsewhere. This technique used by Blench makes the reader himself a detective: with the book, a collage of information and events, we too enter the logic of the investigation. And coincidentally, time changes happen just when something important is supposed to happen (suspenseeeee).
Many critics insist on the “core friendship” between Vera and Margarita. My take on it is that a real friendship never existed. There has always been an unbalanced relationship where Vera was superior in every way. This situation is unalterable: even during the last conversation, Vera seems to have the upper hand, with that provocative question « Have I ? ». The truth is that if Margarita had really been similar to Vera, she would have killed her and taken Nero's identity, exactly as Vera did. But this didn't happen, Margarita is naive and helpless and would have gotten into trouble several times if it weren't for the protection given by Wilson and Pratchett.
Even insisting on the fact that they are similar due to their experience in love with an older man doesn't make any sense: Vera did it for power, money, success; Margarita because the man seduced her, and without saying no she became subjugated.
Vera and Margarita, former almost-rival in love, end up being forever separated after months of what someone call a friendship.
Is this story feminist and emancipating women? I'm not entirely sure. To answer, I’ll analyse the actions of the two women.
Margarita’s dream is to marry Arthur and move in his cottage in England, she spends her days waiting for him like a dog waiting for its owner. The few initiatives she will take in the investigative field will also be, in part, for her future husband. Furthermore, there is little equality between man and woman even when she decides to be Henry's lover, one among many lovers. Margarita definitely doesn’t emancipate herself, otherwise she would have sung and Made a career a lot more, or she would have entered the intelligence or wathever.
Is Vera a feminist? The question is even more complex. Absolutely not in Syria, she herself says she loses her mind over Curzon, and becomes leader of the archaeological site only after the professor allows her to. In the core scene of the Syrian episode, the symbolic position on the vacant scaffolding Curzon above and Vera below at a certain point reverses; but it is not to be interpreted as Vera’s emancipation, it’s only a desire for revenge. The vengeful spirit adds to his lust for power creating a hellish mix. Feminism is equality between men and women, whereas Vera wants to be superior, superior to everyone.
I appreciated the ”note of the author ” at the end of the novel allowing one to understand the origin of facts told in the plot. It’s something that should always be there and that is missing in most of historical fictions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2024
I see the appeal of this as the promised “escapist” novel—the plot was interesting without being stressful and there were a couple of good twists—but the main reason I read it was because I am half Maltese and was interested in the Maltese setting, and that never convinced me.
The geography and general locations are sound and clearly based on research, but there is absolutely no cultural or social flavour of Malta outside of someone rubbing a tomato on some bread once, particularly not Malta in the forties.
If I didn’t have a connection to Malta I think I probably would have enjoyed Secrets of Malta more so I have gone with 3 stars, but my experience was more 1-2 stars. The thing that drew me to the book is the very thing that annoyed me about it!
The geography and general locations are sound and clearly based on research, but there is absolutely no cultural or social flavour of Malta outside of someone rubbing a tomato on some bread once, particularly not Malta in the forties.
If I didn’t have a connection to Malta I think I probably would have enjoyed Secrets of Malta more so I have gone with 3 stars, but my experience was more 1-2 stars. The thing that drew me to the book is the very thing that annoyed me about it!
June 20, 2024
Cecily Blench’s second historical novel Secrets of Malta was published in 2024. It is set in 1943, primarily in Malta but also in London, Tunisia and Egypt; there are flashbacks to Syria in 1926.
The dreadful plague of air-raids on Malta has lessened by now.
As the title suggests, the story involves intelligence activities of the Allies against the Axis forces. Dennis Pratchett is sent to Malta to root out a suspected mole in the intelligence community of Malta. ‘Chap called Morton runs our networks in North Africa and he’s got several operatives who go back and forth’ (p20). Pratchett’s senior, Sir Harold informs him the suspected agent was active in the last war and used the code-name Nero; and the man was believed to be responsible for a couple of murders in Europe before the war. The presence of Nero in Malta at this critical time is most serious – for reasons that will be explained in the book much later...
Margarita is a cabaret singer in Valletta; she has just ended an affair with Henry Dunn. Mrs Vera Dunn accosts Margarita in the night club and reveals that Henry has gone missing. There is no animosity between them; indeed, they seem sympathetic towards each other.
In 1926 Vera was one of four young archaeology students working on a dig in Syria for Professor Curzon. The relevance of these flashbacks only becomes significant as the book progresses.
Now, Margarita is courting a submarine officer, Arthur. Several submarines are involved in covert missions, landing spies in Tunisia, which was recently occupied by Axis forces.
The two women conduct their own investigations, and secrets are revealed...
Vera is a pragmatist: ‘Nothing does more to stimulate one’s sex drive than a war’ (p131).
The author has captured the period and the situation both in Malta, Tunisia and in Syria. Her characters provoke interest throughout. There were some clever misdirections, too; which only seems appropriate in a book about spying and deception!
Perhaps more could have been made of the awful destruction from the almost continuous bombing of 1942, and the stoic response of the inhabitants; but that’s a minor quibble.
I kept turning the pages; it was a quick read, made enjoyable because the setting was familiar.
The dreadful plague of air-raids on Malta has lessened by now.
As the title suggests, the story involves intelligence activities of the Allies against the Axis forces. Dennis Pratchett is sent to Malta to root out a suspected mole in the intelligence community of Malta. ‘Chap called Morton runs our networks in North Africa and he’s got several operatives who go back and forth’ (p20). Pratchett’s senior, Sir Harold informs him the suspected agent was active in the last war and used the code-name Nero; and the man was believed to be responsible for a couple of murders in Europe before the war. The presence of Nero in Malta at this critical time is most serious – for reasons that will be explained in the book much later...
Margarita is a cabaret singer in Valletta; she has just ended an affair with Henry Dunn. Mrs Vera Dunn accosts Margarita in the night club and reveals that Henry has gone missing. There is no animosity between them; indeed, they seem sympathetic towards each other.
In 1926 Vera was one of four young archaeology students working on a dig in Syria for Professor Curzon. The relevance of these flashbacks only becomes significant as the book progresses.
Now, Margarita is courting a submarine officer, Arthur. Several submarines are involved in covert missions, landing spies in Tunisia, which was recently occupied by Axis forces.
The two women conduct their own investigations, and secrets are revealed...
Vera is a pragmatist: ‘Nothing does more to stimulate one’s sex drive than a war’ (p131).
The author has captured the period and the situation both in Malta, Tunisia and in Syria. Her characters provoke interest throughout. There were some clever misdirections, too; which only seems appropriate in a book about spying and deception!
Perhaps more could have been made of the awful destruction from the almost continuous bombing of 1942, and the stoic response of the inhabitants; but that’s a minor quibble.
I kept turning the pages; it was a quick read, made enjoyable because the setting was familiar.
July 13, 2024
Secrets of Malta är en lättläst och medryckande berättelse. Det var ett rent spontanköp när jag var på Malta, då jag ville ha något att läsa som utspelade sig på plats. Det visade sig vara en lyckoträff, Secrets of Malta var historisk fiktion som passade mig. Den är lättsam och intressant, och får mig att vilja veta mer om miljön och tidsperioden. Den har också ett starkt spänningsmoment, och är på sätt och vis en spionroman, vilket tilltalade mig.
Secrets of Malta innehåller två olika tidslinjer och utspelar sig i huvudsak på två platser – Malta 1943 och Syrien 1926. Jag tycker mest om bitarna som utspelar sig på Malta. Delvis beror det på att jag var på Malta, men aldrig varit i Syrien, och jag tycker författaren lyckas förmedla känslan man får när man vandrar omkring i Valetta även i nutid. Överhuvudtaget så lyckas Cecily Blench fånga miljön, klimatet och känslan när man blickar ut över allt den vita i bebyggelsen.
Men att jag tycker mer om bitarna om Malta beror också delvis på vilken del av historien det är. Trots mitt intresse för arkeologi lyckas jag inte uppbåda något större intresse för de bitarna som utspelar sig på den arkeologiska utgrävningen i Syrien många år tidigare. De blir för långsamma och bara intressanta ur aspekten att de ska ge ledtrådar till vem Nero är.
Jag föredrar också karaktärerna på Malta, i synnerhet Margarita och engelsmannen Dennis Pratchett (och hans kollega Roger Wilson), som jag känner med. De blir levande och trovärdiga. Vera är märklig och lite obehaglig och hon tar för stor plats i historien då hon förekommer i båda trådarna. Det är intressant att läsa om Malta på 40-talet, och de tragiska händelserna under kriget. När jag var där var vi på några ställen där vi också fick veta mer om Maltas historia, och det vävdes ihop på ett bra sätt med fiktionen i boken hos mig.
Cecily Blanch var en bra ny författarbekantskap och jag kan tänka mig att läsa mer av henne.
Betyg: 4
Secrets of Malta innehåller två olika tidslinjer och utspelar sig i huvudsak på två platser – Malta 1943 och Syrien 1926. Jag tycker mest om bitarna som utspelar sig på Malta. Delvis beror det på att jag var på Malta, men aldrig varit i Syrien, och jag tycker författaren lyckas förmedla känslan man får när man vandrar omkring i Valetta även i nutid. Överhuvudtaget så lyckas Cecily Blench fånga miljön, klimatet och känslan när man blickar ut över allt den vita i bebyggelsen.
Men att jag tycker mer om bitarna om Malta beror också delvis på vilken del av historien det är. Trots mitt intresse för arkeologi lyckas jag inte uppbåda något större intresse för de bitarna som utspelar sig på den arkeologiska utgrävningen i Syrien många år tidigare. De blir för långsamma och bara intressanta ur aspekten att de ska ge ledtrådar till vem Nero är.
Jag föredrar också karaktärerna på Malta, i synnerhet Margarita och engelsmannen Dennis Pratchett (och hans kollega Roger Wilson), som jag känner med. De blir levande och trovärdiga. Vera är märklig och lite obehaglig och hon tar för stor plats i historien då hon förekommer i båda trådarna. Det är intressant att läsa om Malta på 40-talet, och de tragiska händelserna under kriget. När jag var där var vi på några ställen där vi också fick veta mer om Maltas historia, och det vävdes ihop på ett bra sätt med fiktionen i boken hos mig.
Cecily Blanch var en bra ny författarbekantskap och jag kan tänka mig att läsa mer av henne.
Betyg: 4
March 5, 2025
Cecily Blench’s Secrets of Malta is an immersive historical novel that skillfully blends espionage, archaeology, and the complex dynamics of human relationships. Set primarily in war-torn Malta in 1943, with a secondary timeline in Syria in 1926, the book offers a richly detailed backdrop that immediately draws the reader in.
The protagonist, Margarita, is a nightclub singer in Valletta, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she is drawn into a dangerous game of wartime espionage. Her connection with Vera, an archaeologist and the wife of her former lover, Henry Dunn, forms the emotional core of the story. As they unravel the mystery of Henry’s disappearance and the identity of the infamous spy "Nero," their uneasy alliance evolves into a compelling dynamic.
What stands out most in Secrets of Malta is Blench’s evocative portrayal of place. The descriptions of Malta—its streets, underground shelters, and the ever-present tension of war—are beautifully done. The historical details feel well-researched, adding depth without overwhelming the story. The Syria sections, though not as prominent, provide an intriguing contrast and further develop the backstory of key characters.
Characterization is another strength. Margarita and Vera are complex, flawed, and engaging women, and their reluctant partnership is one of the highlights of the novel. The pacing, however, may not be for everyone. The first half takes its time building the world and relationships, which some readers might find slow. But for those who enjoy a gradual unfolding of intrigue, the latter half is a satisfying payoff.
Overall, Secrets of Malta is a rewarding read for fans of historical fiction, particularly those who appreciate strong female leads, atmospheric settings, and a blend of romance and espionage. If you enjoy Kate Quinn or Pam Jenoff, this novel will likely resonate with you.
The protagonist, Margarita, is a nightclub singer in Valletta, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she is drawn into a dangerous game of wartime espionage. Her connection with Vera, an archaeologist and the wife of her former lover, Henry Dunn, forms the emotional core of the story. As they unravel the mystery of Henry’s disappearance and the identity of the infamous spy "Nero," their uneasy alliance evolves into a compelling dynamic.
What stands out most in Secrets of Malta is Blench’s evocative portrayal of place. The descriptions of Malta—its streets, underground shelters, and the ever-present tension of war—are beautifully done. The historical details feel well-researched, adding depth without overwhelming the story. The Syria sections, though not as prominent, provide an intriguing contrast and further develop the backstory of key characters.
Characterization is another strength. Margarita and Vera are complex, flawed, and engaging women, and their reluctant partnership is one of the highlights of the novel. The pacing, however, may not be for everyone. The first half takes its time building the world and relationships, which some readers might find slow. But for those who enjoy a gradual unfolding of intrigue, the latter half is a satisfying payoff.
Overall, Secrets of Malta is a rewarding read for fans of historical fiction, particularly those who appreciate strong female leads, atmospheric settings, and a blend of romance and espionage. If you enjoy Kate Quinn or Pam Jenoff, this novel will likely resonate with you.
June 1, 2025
Cecily Blench’s Secrets of Malta is a mesmerizing journey into the shadows of war, where espionage meets archaeology against the sun-soaked backdrop of 1943 Malta. At the heart of this gripping tale is Margarita, a nightclub singer whose vibrant life in Valletta takes a sharp turn when she becomes entangled in the dangerous pursuit of a notorious Nazi spy known only as Nero. Just when the stakes couldn’t get higher, Vera—an enigmatic archaeologist and the wife of Margarita’s missing former lover—steps onto the scene, setting off a thrilling chain reaction of secrets, deception, and unexpected alliances.
What makes Secrets of Malta truly stand out is how Blench weaves together two rich timelines—the gritty wartime present and a haunting past in 1926 Syria—painting a vivid picture of history’s tangled web. The vivid descriptions bring Malta to life: its sun-drenched streets, hidden wartime shelters, and the palpable tension simmering beneath everyday life. But it’s the dynamic between Margarita and Vera that really anchors the story. Both women are wonderfully flawed, fiercely resilient, and their uneasy partnership sparks an emotional core that propels the novel forward.
The pace may start out gently as the story carefully builds its world and relationships, but trust me, every thread leads to a payoff filled with surprising twists and a climax that keeps you on the edge of your seat. For fans of atmospheric historical fiction with strong, complex female leads—think Kate Quinn or Pam Jenoff—Secrets of Malta promises a richly immersive reading experience that will leave you eager to explore more hidden histories and untold stories.
Dive in and get ready for a compelling tale of courage, betrayal, and the secrets that bind us—because Secrets of Malta is more than a story; it’s an invitation to see the past in a whole new light.
What makes Secrets of Malta truly stand out is how Blench weaves together two rich timelines—the gritty wartime present and a haunting past in 1926 Syria—painting a vivid picture of history’s tangled web. The vivid descriptions bring Malta to life: its sun-drenched streets, hidden wartime shelters, and the palpable tension simmering beneath everyday life. But it’s the dynamic between Margarita and Vera that really anchors the story. Both women are wonderfully flawed, fiercely resilient, and their uneasy partnership sparks an emotional core that propels the novel forward.
The pace may start out gently as the story carefully builds its world and relationships, but trust me, every thread leads to a payoff filled with surprising twists and a climax that keeps you on the edge of your seat. For fans of atmospheric historical fiction with strong, complex female leads—think Kate Quinn or Pam Jenoff—Secrets of Malta promises a richly immersive reading experience that will leave you eager to explore more hidden histories and untold stories.
Dive in and get ready for a compelling tale of courage, betrayal, and the secrets that bind us—because Secrets of Malta is more than a story; it’s an invitation to see the past in a whole new light.
March 1, 2024
Fans of sweeping and emotional historical fiction will be enraptured by Cecily Blench’s second novel, Secrets of Malta.
Malta, 1943 and Margarita is a singer in the capital city of Valletta who has seen her former lover Henry Dunn only once since breaking off their affair. When Henry’s wife Vera arrives at the club and drops a shocking bombshell, little does the singer realise that she is about to be drawn into a twisted web of lies, secrets, treason and deception that will propel Margarita straight into danger and on the trail of a notorious and dangerous spy: Nero.
Vera had told Margarita that Henry has gone missing and is presumed dead. In their quest for the truth and their desperate search for answers, the two women form an unlikely bond as they realise that they might not in fact be so different from one another after all. However, when strange revelations begin to emerge, the two women realise they have no time to lose and they must work hard and fast to unmask Nero because if they don’t, the consequences of what he might do simply do not bear thinking about…
Dinah Jefferies fans will not want to miss Cecily Blench’s Secrets of Malta. Beautifully atmospheric, brilliantly evocative and utterly hypnotic, Secrets of Malta is a beguiling, passionate and absorbing historical novel full of strong female characters who need to rely on their instincts, guts and intelligence in order to thrive and survive.
A gorgeous historical novel that will take readers away, Secrets of Malta is an enjoyable page-turner by Cecily Blench that shouldn’t be missed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Malta, 1943 and Margarita is a singer in the capital city of Valletta who has seen her former lover Henry Dunn only once since breaking off their affair. When Henry’s wife Vera arrives at the club and drops a shocking bombshell, little does the singer realise that she is about to be drawn into a twisted web of lies, secrets, treason and deception that will propel Margarita straight into danger and on the trail of a notorious and dangerous spy: Nero.
Vera had told Margarita that Henry has gone missing and is presumed dead. In their quest for the truth and their desperate search for answers, the two women form an unlikely bond as they realise that they might not in fact be so different from one another after all. However, when strange revelations begin to emerge, the two women realise they have no time to lose and they must work hard and fast to unmask Nero because if they don’t, the consequences of what he might do simply do not bear thinking about…
Dinah Jefferies fans will not want to miss Cecily Blench’s Secrets of Malta. Beautifully atmospheric, brilliantly evocative and utterly hypnotic, Secrets of Malta is a beguiling, passionate and absorbing historical novel full of strong female characters who need to rely on their instincts, guts and intelligence in order to thrive and survive.
A gorgeous historical novel that will take readers away, Secrets of Malta is an enjoyable page-turner by Cecily Blench that shouldn’t be missed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 15, 2024
I took part in the blog tour for Secrets of Malta by Cecily Blench and I can immediately say that I am glad I signed up for it! To start with, what a beautiful cover!!!
Secrets of Malta is set towards the end of the Second World War. Before you might think this is another war story where people) from opposite nations) fall in love but can't be together, are in danger ...but all will end well, it isn't. The story has good, strong content with characters who have their feet on the ground.
In this story, set in Malta, nobody is who they pretend to be. Margherita is a nightclub singer in Malta, where while working she suddenly meets the wife of her former lover, who seems to have disappeared. The urge to investigate what happened to him is too strong for Margherita and suddenly she is in the middle of a diplomatic hunt for the notorious Nero. So is the wife of her ex-lover and while she is an archeologist, there is more to Vera than she lets out. A bond is developing between the two women.
Vera's past from when she worked at an archaeological dig in Siria is coming back, someone is trying to connect to her. But as a war is going on and everybody pretends to be someone they are not, Vera is trying to do some investigation on her own.
I truly enjoyed this string story revolving around the second war, the politics between countries, the secrets and spies...and then the past coming back was a nice touch. You do warm towards the characters and I would love to read more stories with them.
Secrets of Malta is set towards the end of the Second World War. Before you might think this is another war story where people) from opposite nations) fall in love but can't be together, are in danger ...but all will end well, it isn't. The story has good, strong content with characters who have their feet on the ground.
In this story, set in Malta, nobody is who they pretend to be. Margherita is a nightclub singer in Malta, where while working she suddenly meets the wife of her former lover, who seems to have disappeared. The urge to investigate what happened to him is too strong for Margherita and suddenly she is in the middle of a diplomatic hunt for the notorious Nero. So is the wife of her ex-lover and while she is an archeologist, there is more to Vera than she lets out. A bond is developing between the two women.
Vera's past from when she worked at an archaeological dig in Siria is coming back, someone is trying to connect to her. But as a war is going on and everybody pretends to be someone they are not, Vera is trying to do some investigation on her own.
I truly enjoyed this string story revolving around the second war, the politics between countries, the secrets and spies...and then the past coming back was a nice touch. You do warm towards the characters and I would love to read more stories with them.
March 9, 2024
Secrets of Malta is a historical fiction novel by an author who is brand new for me. If you are a regular reader of my reviews, you will know I am partial to historical fiction, and I do love discovering new authors.
A sweeping dual timeline that moves from 1926, Syria to 1943 Malta so smoothly. The settings are richly described by the author, which came to vivid life in my mind as I read. The characters are very well rounded, to the point that I felt I was with them as the superbly plotted tale played out.
I was totally immersed and invested in Vera and Margarita in their quest to find Nero, a spy who is not just notorious but dangerous too. The fact that Cecily Blench had me thinking I knew it all so easily made this such an entertaining read. The intrigue and tension ramped up so much that I just felt like I couldn't leave the book at any point.
I don't want to give too much away to spoil it for anyone who wants to read it. Just know if you, like me, have a leaning towards historical fiction, with rich settings and characters you can root for, Secrets Of Malta should be on your list. It's a page turner that I finished way too soon for my liking!
Thanks to Compulsive Readers and Zaffre Books for the gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review.
A sweeping dual timeline that moves from 1926, Syria to 1943 Malta so smoothly. The settings are richly described by the author, which came to vivid life in my mind as I read. The characters are very well rounded, to the point that I felt I was with them as the superbly plotted tale played out.
I was totally immersed and invested in Vera and Margarita in their quest to find Nero, a spy who is not just notorious but dangerous too. The fact that Cecily Blench had me thinking I knew it all so easily made this such an entertaining read. The intrigue and tension ramped up so much that I just felt like I couldn't leave the book at any point.
I don't want to give too much away to spoil it for anyone who wants to read it. Just know if you, like me, have a leaning towards historical fiction, with rich settings and characters you can root for, Secrets Of Malta should be on your list. It's a page turner that I finished way too soon for my liking!
Thanks to Compulsive Readers and Zaffre Books for the gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2024
Set in Malta in 1943, it is a world war 2 historical novel which explores the unconventional lives of those living and working in Malta. Along the way the story has complex, intriguing themes. Cecily leaves the reader clues along the way but there are also some blind alleyways too! Along the way, the story turns and twist and as it does so the characters come alive. Each chapter offers something new, there are many surprises alone the way.
This book is a really good read, I am glad I found it.
Thank you to net galley, to Cecily Blench and to the publisher, Zaffre, for the advance copy and this is my honest review.
This book is a really good read, I am glad I found it.
Thank you to net galley, to Cecily Blench and to the publisher, Zaffre, for the advance copy and this is my honest review.
May 2, 2025
I saw the cover at Malta airport and liked the look of it. I thought this may make an interesting holiday read while in Malta. Whilst this is a fictional story, it was so cool to picture the places the book takes place at, Valletta, Floriana etc.
The story was intriguing, an exciting spy story I have been looking for for a while. The story switches between 1943 but als1926 where a while different story unfolds that is woven together at the end. The ending was semi open with some loose end but satisfied me and I can make for myself where it would lead.
This was a treat to read while in Malta, I am so glad I picked it up.
The story was intriguing, an exciting spy story I have been looking for for a while. The story switches between 1943 but als1926 where a while different story unfolds that is woven together at the end. The ending was semi open with some loose end but satisfied me and I can make for myself where it would lead.
This was a treat to read while in Malta, I am so glad I picked it up.
February 26, 2024
This is one of the best books I’ve read.(And I’ve read over 700 in the last two years). It’s a historical novel about women, their unconventional lives & loves. It’s about an archaeological dig, spies & World War Two.
It’s detailed & complex; totally riveting & intriguing. Pay close attention to the clues. Beware the red herrings. There’s a dual timeline. The events of 1936 are key, & so are those from before The Great War. Is everyone who you think they are? Highly recommend this book.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley & I am writing a voluntary honest review
It’s detailed & complex; totally riveting & intriguing. Pay close attention to the clues. Beware the red herrings. There’s a dual timeline. The events of 1936 are key, & so are those from before The Great War. Is everyone who you think they are? Highly recommend this book.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley & I am writing a voluntary honest review
May 7, 2025
Picked it up because it was historical fiction and i went to Malta a few months ago and ended up being surprised to read a semi spy novel that takes place in WW2 :D
really enjoyed the setting, characters and tension build up.
the ending got muddled and confusing a bit ( but i did finish it 5 in the morning so may that was to blame :D )
overall an enjoyable book to pass the time
Thank you netgalley for providing and arc in exchange for an honest review
really enjoyed the setting, characters and tension build up.
the ending got muddled and confusing a bit ( but i did finish it 5 in the morning so may that was to blame :D )
overall an enjoyable book to pass the time
Thank you netgalley for providing and arc in exchange for an honest review
August 23, 2024
I bought this on a trip to Malta in a little bookshop in Valletta. Reading all the descriptions of all the places in Malta was a lovely way of remembering my trip. Really great characters, including some strong women. Good twists but sometimes I struggled to keep up with the different eras/storylines/characters. But overall would definitely recommend.
October 14, 2025
I was excited to read this, especially given the setting. Unfortunately, there’s not much to recommend. Characters were all wooden and one-dimensional and plotline rambled for no reason. Everything felt bland and I found myself getting lost as far as who was who and what was what. One of the few books I’ve come close to abandoning.
October 30, 2024
Loved this book from the very first pages. Written beautifully, keeps the reader in suspense and twists and turns galore. Based on the ending, a sequel should be written ! highly recommend this book
August 24, 2025
A good book for a summer holiday read. The story of those 2 women is a little far fetched, but I guess anything could happen during the war. However, I found the description of the historical facts related to Malta very interesting. I will certainly read more books from this author.
May 23, 2024
Truly phenomenal
August 25, 2024
Plotholes, flat characters, inconsistent behavior. The book was so boring for me I couldn’t wait to finish it
September 17, 2024
A Really enjoyable read.
I Will definatly reading more novels by this author
I Will definatly reading more novels by this author
November 13, 2024
Not my cup of tea
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