Antiques, Codes & Conundrums

Evelyn Chambers Senior Spy #1

by Renee Pawlish

Meet Evelyn Chambers—a retired nurse, devoted cat mom, and widow whose quiet life is about to get a lot more complicated.When a chance encounter at a Virginia café reveals a link between her late husband and a mysterious antiques dealer, Evelyn stumbles into a world of secrets she never expected, and a surprising offer from the CIA she's not entirely qualified to accept. Armed with determination, dry wit, and a small travel bag (no weapons training, thank you), Evelyn's first mission takes her to Paris in search of answers.

But when the past refuses to stay buried, she quickly learns that international intrigue is no vacation—and some secrets are worth killing for.

Antiques, Codes & Conundrums kicks off a charming, globe-trotting cozy spy series perfect for readers who love clever heroines, light espionage, and a dash of danger with their croissants.

Each book follows Evelyn on a new international adventure as she learns that retirement is the perfect time to start a second career . . . in espionage.

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery

197 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 10, 2024

About the author

From the time she was ten and tried to write her own detective series in the fashion of the Hardy Boys, Renée Pawlish has been developing her craft. Along with creative writing classes, Renée studied great writers like Dashiell Hammett, Rex Stout, Stephen King, Sue Grafton and many more. Once Renée graduated from college, she began her first novel. Now, all these years later, she has penned numerous books in a variety of genres.

Renée was born in California, but has lived most of her life in Colorado. When she's not hiking, cycling, or chasing ballplayers for autographs, she is writing mysteries and thrillers. She also has some middle grade novels waiting to be published.

Renée loves to travel and has visited numerous countries around the world. She has also spent many summer days at her parents' cabin in the hills outside of Boulder, which was the inspiration for the setting of Taylor Crossing in her novel Nephilim: Genesis of Evil.

The Reed Ferguson Mystery Series
This Doesn't Happen In The Movies
Reel Estate Rip-off

The Nephilim Trilogy
Nephilim Genesis of Evil
Books Two and Three soon to be released

The Noah Winter YA Adventure Series
The Emerald Quest

Take Five
A short story collection that includes a Reed Ferguson tale.

The Sallie House: Exposing the Beast Within
A non-fiction book about one of the most haunted houses in America.

To learn more you can follow her on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/reneepawlish....

on her blog:
http://tobecomeawriter.wordpress.com/

on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/reneepawlish

Reviews

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Antiques, Codes & Conundrums (The Evelyn Chambers Senior Spy Series Book 1), my sixty-sixth read from prolific author Renee Pawlish and the first in The Evelyn Chambers Senior Spy Series. New character, new premise, different era. Any Renee Pawlish book is like a visit with an old friend. “I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to A Brush With Danger (The Evelyn Chambers Senior Spy Series Book 2)when it's published in August of next year, as well as anything written by her. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have tried another series from this author and wanted to give this one featuring an older woman a shot. It was certainly action filled, but with the reader left worrying or anticipating what next? I don't think I need to dip further into this series. For one thing, I believe the reader must like cats. I do not.

Kindle Unlimited

[Joyce927 · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a delightful new series, Renée Pawlish has created the widow of a retired CIA agent who still has questions surrounding her husband's sudden death five years ago. Although Evelyn's husband had insisted he was not a field agent and was only a "desk jockey," she knew something had been bothering him for several weeks before his supposed heart attack. Through a series of seemingly random incidents, Evelyn is sure she noticed a man her husband had met a few times at an antique store. Evelyn, and her friend Margaret, commence a spy operation on Phillip, the owner of the antique store. She also contacts her husband's former supervisor, convinced there is something questionable going on. She finds a ledger hidden in a desk at the antique store with all of the entries written in code. After many hours, she finally cracks the code and convinces the CIA supervisor to let her investigate, as a consultant, since no will suspect a seventy year old woman is on their trail. She ends up in Paris, involved in more danger than anyone anticipated.

This is an intriguing tale of spies and the bravery of a woman who wants answers. I'm excited about reading this new series. I've been a great fan of Renée Pawlish for many years and thoroughly enjoy the Reed Ferguson mystery and Sarah Spillman procedural series as well as the Jo Gunning thriller series. I also love the Dewey Webb historical mystery series. All of her books provide exciting reading without graphic violence, sex, or bad language. I highly recommend any of her books.

[Albert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first in a new series by experienced author Renee Pawlish. I found it a departure from her previous series, but think it has the potential to be as successful as the earlier ones.
The series stars a widow who becomes entangled in a mystery at an antique shop that soon becomes somewhat personal.
The writing is, as usual with Ms. Pawlish, excellent and engaging. The storyline is cohesive and well paced. Although only the first in the series, the characters are already likeable and you find yourself becoming attached and rooting for them.
I recommend this for anyone who enjoys a good mystery.

[Patricia A. Gross · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of Renee Pawlish, I was excited to start this new series. Evelyn Chambers is the elde rly widow of a CIA analyst. When Evelyn and her best friend - and next door neighbor - are having tea in a new shop, Evelyn overhears a conversation that catches her ear. A name is mentioned that she had heard about from her late husband - an antique dealer that he had visited about pocket watches. Something seems off and Evelyn just has to investigate. And investigate she does and it could cost her life. Pawlish brings these characters to life and the story keeps you turning the pages to see what they will get into next! I can't wait for the next book in the series!

[Peg Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can’t help but love retired nurse, Evelyn Chambers, and her three quirky cats. Evelyn’s husband, Henry, died five years ago, and she finds herself at odds with what to do with her life. Through overhearing an interesting and somewhat suspicious conversation at a coffee shop, Evelyn decides she needs to followup with Henry’s former boss, Agent Torres, about details related to Henry’s death and what he was doing for the CIA at the time of his death. This leads to Evelyn embarking on an international adventure like never before. A fun, new cozy mystery series by Renee Pawlish.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Antiques, Codes & Conundrums is the first in a new cozy mystery series by Renee Pawlish. This is definitely a new twist for this author with her new slueth retired nurse Evelyn Chambers.
Evelyn discovers a connection between her dead husband and a antiques dealer. The journey to discovery long kept secrets takes Evelyn from Virginia to Paris.
Even though this genre is a diversion from Renee ‘s usual mysteries, readers will find it an enjoyable read with interesting characters.

[Bettie A Covington · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a fan of Pawlish, so I decided to try this new series. This first book started very slowly, and I almost gave up. About 60 pages in it took off, and I couldn't put it down. I am 77% through book two and can't wait to keep going. a fun series, definitely worth working through those first slower pages.

[Cheryl Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Seemed like a quick read as I read right through it and enjoyed every page. The new character Evelyn is a pistol. She made me laugh quite a few times. The book had me guessing with the twists and turns. Look forward to reading more of Evelyn’s antics in future books!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this new direction for Pawlish! I know she'll still write her mysteries, but she's branching out into the Cozy mystery world with a hit right from the start.
Great characters and a fun case, easy to read and definitely entertaining.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first of a new series for this talented author, Antiques, Codes & Conundrums is a fun, fast paced part cozy mystery, part spy thriller with engaging characters, and an excellent ending! If you like Mrs. Pollifax, you will love this book. I can't wait for Evelyn Chambers' further adventures!

[Dianne Biscoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me a bit to get past all the cat information and get to the heart of the story but once I did, it turned out to be another great addition to Renee's books. Love how Evelyn gets to travel in this series. Looking forward to book 2!

[CWJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not so sure….

Not sure I’ll continue this series. Not as good as Pawlish other series and characters. Way too much verbiage about the cats and I actually skipped through most of it as it went on and on. Just not my thing.

[Niah C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a cute book! It was adorable and an easy read to take your mind off the real world of stress. If you have cats, you’ll love this book. It was redundant and had plot holes, but this isn’t a book you read for a true crazy murder mystery. It’s a cozy book for escapism❤️ highly recommend!

[Rita L. Clinton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Senior citizen for the Win

Let’s face it while 007 is usually very attractive that makes him too noticeable. A senior citizen is part of the scenery which makes them a perfect spy. That logic made this book delightful and a fun read.

[Paula Withrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had a great time with Evelyn

For years, Mrs. Pollifax was my go to adult (older) CIA person.
Now, finally, another series with another feisty older woman equal to the adventures she faces. The story was well written characters were engaging, and who doesn’t like Paris.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting!

A different adventure! Evelyn was just going about her life when along comes a mystery, new information about her husband, a new cat & a new male friend. Can’t wait for the next book!

[Renee Boomershine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great cozy mystery

I love cozy mysteries. Renee Pawlish's new series does not disappoint. I cannot wait for the next book in The series.

[Pam Mineo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I thought the character Evelyn was wonderful. The story flows well from start to finish. Am looking forward to the next adventure for our senior sleuth

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done

This was a fun mystery story and an older widow who notices things. It engaged me from the start and held my interest. I plan to read more in the series.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unassuming spy

Being a month shy of my 73 birthday I appreciate storylines showing the value of age and experience! They never see us coming!

[Rachel Bates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great new series

This series of cozy mysteries is off to a great start. The author offers all the hoped-for plot and excitement wrapped in talented, quality writing.

[Marseydoats · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had been wanting to read this for awhile. but sadly, I couldn't get into it. I may try the 2nd book in the series later.

[jsoerensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun Read!

I really enjoyed this book! Fun, quirky, nice set up for the next book! Loved the exchange she has with her kitties! I too have multiple cats and can so relate!

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun read

Fun read, glad to see a lady “of a certain age “ as the lead. She is a headstrong charming character, would like to know her.

[Dorothy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jessica Fletcher, there you are ….

I can hear and see the actress Angela Lansbury on every page. “Plucky” aging heroine is the adjective du jour.

[Susan Ann Tipton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reminiscent of Mrs. Polifax with rescue cats instead of geraniums. I enjoyed reading it.

[Delores Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an ok book. I didn't care much for Evelyn's devil may care attitude.

[Barbara · Rating 2 out of 5]

For me, it reads like a VERY early attempt by a previously unpublished author. Oh well. I HOPED for competition with Mrs. Pollifax (whom I adore), but no.

[BunnyStarr · Rating 5 out of 5]

don't miss this great read.

Didn't know if I would like it but I was soon sucked in and couldn't put it down.
I'm sure you will enjoy it.