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Isabella Rose #6
Pretty Face
Isabella Rose lives a quiet life in Marrakech, hiding a dark she pays the bills by accepting wet work for an unknown broker. Her one solace is the time she spends at a local orphanage that offers a haven to children who have lost everything.
When a powerful and corrupt general sets his sights on acquiring the orphanage’s land, Isabella finds her two worlds colliding. Brutal tactics escalate, culminating in a devastating fire that forces Isabella to risk everything to save the children she's grown to love.
But now, she must confront a terrible disappear and protect her own safety or use all her deadly skills to bring the general down and secure a future for the orphanage.
When a powerful and corrupt general sets his sights on acquiring the orphanage’s land, Isabella finds her two worlds colliding. Brutal tactics escalate, culminating in a devastating fire that forces Isabella to risk everything to save the children she's grown to love.
But now, she must confront a terrible disappear and protect her own safety or use all her deadly skills to bring the general down and secure a future for the orphanage.
- GenresThriller
415 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2025
1167 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Mark Dawson
114 books1,848 followersFor news and special offers join Mark's mailing list at:
http://eepurl.com/Cai5X
Mark Dawson was born in Lowestoft and grew up in Manchester and Chicago. He has worked as a lawyer and currently works in the London film industry. His first books, "The Art of Falling Apart" and "Subpoena Colada" have been published in multiple languages.
He is currently writing two series. Soho Noir is set in the West End of London between 1940 and 1970. The first book in the series, "The Black Mile", deals with the (real life but little known) serial killer who operated in the area during the Blitz. "The Imposter" traces the journey of a criminal family (think The Sopranos in austerity London and you'd be on the right track).
The John Milton series features a disgruntled special agent who aims to help people to make amends for the terrible things that he has done. Mark, as a child of the 80s, will freely admit that he watched a lot of The Equalizer in his youth.
Mark lives in Wiltshire with his family.
You can find him at www.markjdawson.com or www.facebook.com/markdawsonauthor.
http://eepurl.com/Cai5X
Mark Dawson was born in Lowestoft and grew up in Manchester and Chicago. He has worked as a lawyer and currently works in the London film industry. His first books, "The Art of Falling Apart" and "Subpoena Colada" have been published in multiple languages.
He is currently writing two series. Soho Noir is set in the West End of London between 1940 and 1970. The first book in the series, "The Black Mile", deals with the (real life but little known) serial killer who operated in the area during the Blitz. "The Imposter" traces the journey of a criminal family (think The Sopranos in austerity London and you'd be on the right track).
The John Milton series features a disgruntled special agent who aims to help people to make amends for the terrible things that he has done. Mark, as a child of the 80s, will freely admit that he watched a lot of The Equalizer in his youth.
Mark lives in Wiltshire with his family.
You can find him at www.markjdawson.com or www.facebook.com/markdawsonauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 14, 2025
I’ve read a number of Dawson’s Milton books and all of the Beatrix Rose novels, but the Isabella Rose stories are my favorites. She was just a child when she was introduced, though a dangerous one. Now she is a woman, or nearly one, and she is much more likable than Milton or Beatrix - Milton is dark and haunted, while Beatrix was hardened and limited by her health. Isabella is kind and optimistic and though she has Beatrix’ superhuman abilities, she stays likable - lovable really. I can’t wait to read of the new, vigilante phase of her existence, though I will miss Marrakesh, a wonderful setting for a story.
August 2, 2025
Pretty Face, number 6(already)in the Isabella Rose Series.
Great to return to one of my favourite authors, great character, good story telling, and again happy to be up to date on this series.
Beatrix Rose taught Isabella everything she knows, now she is growing up with a quite life on her own.
Isabella Rose lives a quiet life in Marrakech, hiding a dark secret: she pays the bills by accepting wet work for an unknown broker. Her one solace is the time she spends at a local orphanage that offers a haven to children who have lost everything.
When a powerful and corrupt general sets his sights on acquiring the orphanage’s land, Isabella finds her two worlds colliding. Brutal tactics escalate, culminating in a devastating fire that forces Isabella to risk everything to save the children she's grown to love.
But now, she must confront a terrible choice: disappear and protect her own safety or use all her deadly skills to bring the general down and secure a future for the orphanage.
Here is a great book with a collection of stories coming together, different plots a making sense in the end
Four stars
Great to return to one of my favourite authors, great character, good story telling, and again happy to be up to date on this series.
Beatrix Rose taught Isabella everything she knows, now she is growing up with a quite life on her own.
Isabella Rose lives a quiet life in Marrakech, hiding a dark secret: she pays the bills by accepting wet work for an unknown broker. Her one solace is the time she spends at a local orphanage that offers a haven to children who have lost everything.
When a powerful and corrupt general sets his sights on acquiring the orphanage’s land, Isabella finds her two worlds colliding. Brutal tactics escalate, culminating in a devastating fire that forces Isabella to risk everything to save the children she's grown to love.
But now, she must confront a terrible choice: disappear and protect her own safety or use all her deadly skills to bring the general down and secure a future for the orphanage.
Here is a great book with a collection of stories coming together, different plots a making sense in the end
Four stars
February 1, 2025
Excellent book. So much going on in this book. There is also a peak at Isabella’s softer side. The characters are dynamic and engaging, keeping the sharp edge of this thriller throughout. This story is not to be missed!
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
April 3, 2025
I was so looking forward to another adventure by Bella and after lengthy set up and details about the aromas of the markets at daybreak (nice she could return to her flat after all that went down) but seemed to get bogged down with convoluted plot with prisons and corrupt generals. The orphanage angle was nice, good she could help these poor folks with her skills and kind heart. You knew Pope was probably going to make an appearance somehow as much as she referenced what he would have done (such a reach to glom on to that sketchy activist by just looking at her laptop). Great scene of Bella saving kids from fire (though you know the little girl pal would have said it was her) but the whole casing out of polo grounds and abduction a shooting range was a waste of time. General never even got a chance to show his shooting skills! We also never find out what happened with orphanage, (yeah, stay in crappy location when you could upgrade with much nice facilities outside of stinky city) what happened to activist chick who bailed, what happened to her nice flat and copious weapons cache and motor bike. This was an audio book so was happy to hear ol David Thorpe bringing folks to life and yes nice that Pope is still kicking. Hopefully Bella will have a life as she discovered Charlie and diving was fun (though threats to beat up brother seemed like they may not last). I will look forward to seeing what Milton is up to soon as that is released, meantime back with Grayman and a new adventure as all the old standbys seem to emerge at once.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2025
Waited so long and couldn’t put it down.
I think Isabella Rose may be one of my favourite characters, after Beatrix. I absolutely adore her; she’s spirited, intelligent, and driven.
In this instalment we get to see a softer side to her that she’s not been able to show thus far; with her volunteering at an orphanage.
And then we see how far she will go to protect what she thinks is precious.
There were a few plot holes (the whole understanding / not understanding Arabic thing) but overall I was so excited to have the character’s back I overlooked them.
We got to see her dealing with emotions she’s not dealt with before, and then realising she really won’t ever be able to have a normal life.
I didn’t particularly like how stubborn, moody, and sullen, Isabella got with Pope, but then had to remind myself that she is still a teenager despite everything she’s been through.
And speaking of Pope, when he finally made his return I honest to god cheered. I knew in my heart that he wasn’t dead, but it wasn’t until he re-emerged that I was sure.
It’s good to see how fluidly the two of them work together, with him seamlessly stepping back into the parental / handler role. I hated his reasoning for leaving her, and how quickly she forgave him.
I honestly can’t wait for the next instalment. Bring on the vigilante era.
I think Isabella Rose may be one of my favourite characters, after Beatrix. I absolutely adore her; she’s spirited, intelligent, and driven.
In this instalment we get to see a softer side to her that she’s not been able to show thus far; with her volunteering at an orphanage.
And then we see how far she will go to protect what she thinks is precious.
There were a few plot holes (the whole understanding / not understanding Arabic thing) but overall I was so excited to have the character’s back I overlooked them.
We got to see her dealing with emotions she’s not dealt with before, and then realising she really won’t ever be able to have a normal life.
I didn’t particularly like how stubborn, moody, and sullen, Isabella got with Pope, but then had to remind myself that she is still a teenager despite everything she’s been through.
And speaking of Pope, when he finally made his return I honest to god cheered. I knew in my heart that he wasn’t dead, but it wasn’t until he re-emerged that I was sure.
It’s good to see how fluidly the two of them work together, with him seamlessly stepping back into the parental / handler role. I hated his reasoning for leaving her, and how quickly she forgave him.
I honestly can’t wait for the next instalment. Bring on the vigilante era.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2025
Mark Dawson has a rare gift for immersive storytelling, and *Pretty Face* is a brilliant example of his ability to make fiction feel vividly real. His writing doesn’t just tell a story—it transports you. Every scene is so richly detailed that you can *smell* , *feel* the tension in a crowded room, and *hear* the subtle inflections in a character’s voice.
Dawson’s prose is cinematic yet deeply intimate, painting pictures in your mind that linger long after you’ve put the book down. His characters are complex, flawed, and utterly human, making their journeys compelling and emotionally resonant. Whether it’s the grit of a detective’s world or the quiet intensity of a personal revelation, Dawson captures it all with authenticity and depth.
Reading his books is an experience—one that stays with you, replaying in your mind like a favorite film. His storytelling is so engrossing that you’ll go to bed with vibrant scenes still unfolding behind your eyelids. Simply put, Mark Dawson is one of the best at crafting stories that don’t just entertain but *live* inside you.
If you want writing that breathes, pulses, and stays with you, Dawson’s work—Just the best.**
January 20, 2025
Isabella has been on her own since the death of her mentor and friend, Michael Pope. Living quietly in Marrakech, hiding from the consortium that wants to “acquire” her, she has been able to find comfort in her normally tumultuous life when she becomes involved with an orphanage and the wonderful children being helped there. Unfortunately, the orphanage is suddenly being targeted by a greedy, powerful general who is demanding the land the building is on for his own use. Isabella is again forced to deal with murders, assassinations, arson, and always the threat of her own kidnapping - forcing her to decide what is really important in her life. Another incredible thriller with an incredible twist that you cannot imagine is coming. I thoroughly enjoyed this next story in this great series and highly recommend it.
April 5, 2025
I enjoy this series looking at how Isabella is building a life after losing her mother, Pope, and her "sister," she's attempting to make her way in the world and finding an attractive young man she'd like to know better. This seems like a pleasant novel examining her new life, but of course, nothing in this story is going to be easy for our heroine. In trying to help an orphanage, Isabella runs afowl of a powerful general. Dawson has created a world where characters meet and cooperate to fight together much like Barry Eisler, which I like. I look forward to reading many more novels concerning our young heroine.
February 22, 2025
Welcome back
Finally the waiting is over. Isabella Rose is back in what is definitely a great read. In this story Mark has managed to bring out, the caring side of Isabella but unfortunately it doesn’t stop her from getting in hot water but this time things don’t go so well and Isabella’s luck seems to have finally run out or has it, for has always with Mark’s books there’s a twist and one you probably won’t be expecting. Now that I’ve peaked your curiosity, all that’s left for me to say is happy reading.
Finally the waiting is over. Isabella Rose is back in what is definitely a great read. In this story Mark has managed to bring out, the caring side of Isabella but unfortunately it doesn’t stop her from getting in hot water but this time things don’t go so well and Isabella’s luck seems to have finally run out or has it, for has always with Mark’s books there’s a twist and one you probably won’t be expecting. Now that I’ve peaked your curiosity, all that’s left for me to say is happy reading.
February 23, 2025
Isabella is back in Marrakesh and it’s wonderful to be back in her world.
As always a brilliant absorbing read. Isabella doing what she does best but there a poignancy to this too now. As she is getting older she’s experiencing new things and realising that she can never just be ‘normal’. Can never hold down a relationship and can never put down roots.
Nice to see the return of a character I wasn’t expecting and looking forward to what happens next as the ending sets things up brilliantly for their next chapter.
As always a brilliant absorbing read. Isabella doing what she does best but there a poignancy to this too now. As she is getting older she’s experiencing new things and realising that she can never just be ‘normal’. Can never hold down a relationship and can never put down roots.
Nice to see the return of a character I wasn’t expecting and looking forward to what happens next as the ending sets things up brilliantly for their next chapter.
March 25, 2025
Baffled by the other high reviews? This book was really disappointing. The story had great potential but it was severely hampered by tedious, monotonous unnecessary detail which went on and on and on. Even the action bits were over in a few lines and then back to the detail.
I ended up skipping ahead and slowing down at the ending which was just so quick and inconsequential, then the set up for the next book which sadly I wont read as this author is meant to be better than this but I wont risk it again.
I ended up skipping ahead and slowing down at the ending which was just so quick and inconsequential, then the set up for the next book which sadly I wont read as this author is meant to be better than this but I wont risk it again.
February 19, 2025
Big fan of the Isabella Rose Series
This one, while having its merits may be more of a setup for future adventures. This one seemed a little rushed. It did have its moments of strengths and a few weaknesses, both in content and story. Still, it is an "unputabledown," tale worth reading. I would encourage the reader to indulge in all previous episodes if you will. It will help with context when content and names are dropped, you will understand why and who.
This one, while having its merits may be more of a setup for future adventures. This one seemed a little rushed. It did have its moments of strengths and a few weaknesses, both in content and story. Still, it is an "unputabledown," tale worth reading. I would encourage the reader to indulge in all previous episodes if you will. It will help with context when content and names are dropped, you will understand why and who.
March 9, 2025
The sixth of the Isabella Rose series. She is now on her own living quietly in Marrakesh while taking on occasional contract work to make a few bucks. Alas, though, a friend who operates an orphanage is being targeted by a powerful, corrupt Moroccan general who wants her property. Isabella says, not so fast mon capitan. She develops a plan to save the children and eliminate the arrogant commander. At times, the story read like a Sidney Sheldon novel, but overall, it was a decent actioner.
November 12, 2025
Good to return to one of my favourite authors, great character, good story telling, and now up to date on this series.
Mark is back to his best and having been very critical of Vultures(Milton)I am pleased to say he has produced a really good adventure for Isabella.
The storyline is very straightforward and certainly maintains pace and credibility.No super hero fantasies and good to have Pope back on the scene.
My faith has been restored and I would thoroughly recommend to anyone wanting a gripping,but easy to read story.
Mark is back to his best and having been very critical of Vultures(Milton)I am pleased to say he has produced a really good adventure for Isabella.
The storyline is very straightforward and certainly maintains pace and credibility.No super hero fantasies and good to have Pope back on the scene.
My faith has been restored and I would thoroughly recommend to anyone wanting a gripping,but easy to read story.
February 3, 2025
good
Well I waited a long time for this book and nearly packed it in twice, it took me 50% reading before I got any excitement out of it but then I couldn’t put it down, it was what I was expecting it to be just a little late coming. I would like to say more about it but I don’t want to give anything away so you will just have to read it to see what happens next.
Well I waited a long time for this book and nearly packed it in twice, it took me 50% reading before I got any excitement out of it but then I couldn’t put it down, it was what I was expecting it to be just a little late coming. I would like to say more about it but I don’t want to give anything away so you will just have to read it to see what happens next.
February 3, 2025
Simply Brilliant
I was so looking forward to this book, and as usual Mark didn't disappoint.
Catching up on Isabella was very enjoyable, and she's her usual strong wise self, just a little older.
A lovely surprise for her towards the ending of the story felt complete.
Looking forward to her next adventure.
I was so looking forward to this book, and as usual Mark didn't disappoint.
Catching up on Isabella was very enjoyable, and she's her usual strong wise self, just a little older.
A lovely surprise for her towards the ending of the story felt complete.
Looking forward to her next adventure.
February 8, 2025
Another great thriller by Mark Dawson!
Excitement, intrigue, suspense, betrayal, surprises are all part of this book. Mark Dawson writes so well to keep the attention of readers and makes this book unputdownable! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspenseful thrillers. Happy reading! ☺️
Excitement, intrigue, suspense, betrayal, surprises are all part of this book. Mark Dawson writes so well to keep the attention of readers and makes this book unputdownable! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspenseful thrillers. Happy reading! ☺️
February 8, 2025
Just when Isabella thought she had been very careful , keeping away from routines, keeping a watchful eye out, she soon finds out she had not been careful enough and gets in trouble. Just when she thinks all hope is gone, Pope reappears in her life and saves the day. He soon finds out that Isabella is now a pretty strong-willed woman, who doesn't take no for an answer.
February 17, 2025
Brilliant storyline again..
5 stars for an excellent story. I like how Isabella is a force to be reckoned with. She is a complex character and unique. She also has a good heart. Would like to see more books of her being published more frequently. All Mark's books are great, so if anyone looking for great reads look no further than Mark Dawson!!!
5 stars for an excellent story. I like how Isabella is a force to be reckoned with. She is a complex character and unique. She also has a good heart. Would like to see more books of her being published more frequently. All Mark's books are great, so if anyone looking for great reads look no further than Mark Dawson!!!
February 3, 2025
Not just a Pretty Face
I can’t say what I wanted to say because it would spoil the story for others.
Just know that this is Mark Dawson at his very best with a promise of more to come from an unexpected duo. Isobel and ……..
I can’t say what I wanted to say because it would spoil the story for others.
Just know that this is Mark Dawson at his very best with a promise of more to come from an unexpected duo. Isobel and ……..
February 5, 2025
Action packed as usual. Isabella thought pope was dead, so she proceeded to make it on her own. She even did a few jobs for THE BROKER. then, she got arrested in Marrakech and Pope rescued her. They had to get rid of a few bad guys.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2025
I’m a huge fan of the authors work and was very happy to see Isabella again.
I particularly loved the art imitating life chapters at the beginning! IYKYK
All the twists and turns we have come to expect from Group 15 and 15 Adjacent
I particularly loved the art imitating life chapters at the beginning! IYKYK
All the twists and turns we have come to expect from Group 15 and 15 Adjacent
February 6, 2025
Great read
I love this series as a continuation of the Beatrix Rose series. Very well written and deeply engaging. I'm always sad when the story ends as it is a long wait before the next book in the series. is released.
I love this series as a continuation of the Beatrix Rose series. Very well written and deeply engaging. I'm always sad when the story ends as it is a long wait before the next book in the series. is released.
February 8, 2025
Flawlessly brilliant as usual!
Heartwarming to see Isabelle reunited with her father figure. Her defiant desire to establish herself as an independent young adult kept me clinging to the edge of my seat constantly fearing she would get them both caught at any moment!
Heartwarming to see Isabelle reunited with her father figure. Her defiant desire to establish herself as an independent young adult kept me clinging to the edge of my seat constantly fearing she would get them both caught at any moment!
February 12, 2025
I feel like I know Marrakesh.
Always excited to read another Isabella Rose tale. The action is your usual Mark Dawson fantastic. His description of the areas had me sweating even in my local -35 F area.
Always excited to read another Isabella Rose tale. The action is your usual Mark Dawson fantastic. His description of the areas had me sweating even in my local -35 F area.
February 12, 2025
Another Excellent Story
Another excellent story by Mark in the Isabella Rose series.A great storyline that was fast moving and ful of action. A great cast of intriguing characters.Looking forward to reading more.
Another excellent story by Mark in the Isabella Rose series.A great storyline that was fast moving and ful of action. A great cast of intriguing characters.Looking forward to reading more.
February 17, 2025
I really enjoy this series, but I have a difficult time believing that Isabella at nineteen can be such a dedicated assassin, regardless of her upbringing. However, I will continue to read this series.
February 19, 2025
Another Great One
It has been another nailbiter as Isabella steps into a real mess, having had good intentions. This ride is a white knuckle experience, but knowing Isabella, is that a surprise?
It has been another nailbiter as Isabella steps into a real mess, having had good intentions. This ride is a white knuckle experience, but knowing Isabella, is that a surprise?
March 4, 2025
Welcome Back!
I’ve read every Beatrix Rose and Isabella Rose book and PRETTY FACE does not disappoint. And there is a great surprise in the end that fans of the series will love! Mark Dawson is one of the very best! Oh, yeah, I have also read every John Milton book too…
I’ve read every Beatrix Rose and Isabella Rose book and PRETTY FACE does not disappoint. And there is a great surprise in the end that fans of the series will love! Mark Dawson is one of the very best! Oh, yeah, I have also read every John Milton book too…
August 21, 2025
Isabella Rose....pretty face
Isabella is quite the character. She doesn't realize until she's in deep trouble that her handler, Pope, is alive and well.
This book kept me on my toes and was a very good read all the way through the book!
Isabella is quite the character. She doesn't realize until she's in deep trouble that her handler, Pope, is alive and well.
This book kept me on my toes and was a very good read all the way through the book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews