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Electra McDonnell #5
One Final Turn: An Electra McDonnell Novel
The fifth and final installment in the Electra McDonnell series brings safecracker Ellie on a mission across World War II-era Europe to Lisbon, Portugal to rescue a key group of escaped POWs.
Ellie McDonnell is about to embark on her most perilous mission go to Lisbon, Portugal to save her beloved cousin Toby who has reportedly escaped from a German prisoner of war camp. Toby has been missing since the Battle of Dunkirk and Ellie had all but lost hope in ever seeing him again until Major Ramsey, the British military intelligence officer she had been working closely with over the past few months, shared the news he’d intercepted.
Nothing will stop Ellie from finding her cousin, not even the awkward experience of having to travel to an unknown country with Ramsey after he’d dismissed her for being untrustworthy just as she’d realized she had fallen in love with him. Under the supervision of Captain Archie Blandings, a charming intelligence officer based in Lisbon, Ellie meets with undercover operatives to track down where Toby might be hiding from the Nazis and whether they are too late to safely recover him, all the while fighting her feelings for Ramsey and the incessant burden of war looming around her at every turn.
Ellie McDonnell is about to embark on her most perilous mission go to Lisbon, Portugal to save her beloved cousin Toby who has reportedly escaped from a German prisoner of war camp. Toby has been missing since the Battle of Dunkirk and Ellie had all but lost hope in ever seeing him again until Major Ramsey, the British military intelligence officer she had been working closely with over the past few months, shared the news he’d intercepted.
Nothing will stop Ellie from finding her cousin, not even the awkward experience of having to travel to an unknown country with Ramsey after he’d dismissed her for being untrustworthy just as she’d realized she had fallen in love with him. Under the supervision of Captain Archie Blandings, a charming intelligence officer based in Lisbon, Ellie meets with undercover operatives to track down where Toby might be hiding from the Nazis and whether they are too late to safely recover him, all the while fighting her feelings for Ramsey and the incessant burden of war looming around her at every turn.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 621 reviews
March 12, 2025
It's over. Say it ain't so! 😭
One Final Turn brings us the conclusion of the spirited Electra McDonnell series about a family of lockpicks who get tricked into helping the British government during the second World War. The youngest and feistiest of the bunch is Electra, technically the niece of the patriarch, but who has been raised like a daughter alongside her two cousins, who both are away fighting in the war - one of whom hasn't been heard from in quite some time.
Electra was raised by her widowed uncle because her mother gave birth to her in prison after being convicted of murdering Electra's father. Her mother died while incarcerated, leaving Electra an orphan, but her uncle Mick and his sons never left her wanting for family, even if she does still have a lingering curiosity about the truth behind her mother's nonsensical crime.
This becomes an ongoing slide plot in the series while our main focus is on how Electra (and sometimes Mick) provide their lock picking and detection services for various covert missions for the war effort under the watchful eye of the upright Major Gabriel Ramsey. He's Electra's opposite in basically every way and the two always succeed in vexing one another, but they can't deny the spark between them, even if it does complicate the will-they-won't-they situationship Electra has with her wily friend Felix.
I mention all of these plot points because, this being the last book in the series, we see them all conclude in this new book, in which Electra heads to neutral Lisbon, Portugal to investigate a lead on her missing cousin who seems to have been taken as a POW by the Germans. She's eager to help bring him home in whatever way she can, but it will mean working with Major Ramsey once again after the two of them had an ugly falling out at the end of the last book (Locked in Pursuit).
This book unquestionably had the weakest story in the series. But did I care much? Not really. I knew going in that this book's job was to give us answers to our lingering questions and give her dynamite heroine a good ending, whatever that ended up being. And that's precisely what Weaver did here. I wish the pacing had been a bit more elegant, especially at the end, but I was so invested in these characters that, again, I really didn't care.
If you're looking for a cracking (heh) mystery series, don't hesitate to binge your way through this one to get ready for this new installment, due out in June! The one you'll want to start with is A Peculiar Combination
Many thanks to the publisher for supplying this copy via NetGalley - I'll leave out the disclaimer that this is an "honest" review because all my reviews are brutally honest, good or bad, so I think it goes without saying. 😂
Click here to hear more of my thoughts over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
One Final Turn brings us the conclusion of the spirited Electra McDonnell series about a family of lockpicks who get tricked into helping the British government during the second World War. The youngest and feistiest of the bunch is Electra, technically the niece of the patriarch, but who has been raised like a daughter alongside her two cousins, who both are away fighting in the war - one of whom hasn't been heard from in quite some time.
Electra was raised by her widowed uncle because her mother gave birth to her in prison after being convicted of murdering Electra's father. Her mother died while incarcerated, leaving Electra an orphan, but her uncle Mick and his sons never left her wanting for family, even if she does still have a lingering curiosity about the truth behind her mother's nonsensical crime.
This becomes an ongoing slide plot in the series while our main focus is on how Electra (and sometimes Mick) provide their lock picking and detection services for various covert missions for the war effort under the watchful eye of the upright Major Gabriel Ramsey. He's Electra's opposite in basically every way and the two always succeed in vexing one another, but they can't deny the spark between them, even if it does complicate the will-they-won't-they situationship Electra has with her wily friend Felix.
I mention all of these plot points because, this being the last book in the series, we see them all conclude in this new book, in which Electra heads to neutral Lisbon, Portugal to investigate a lead on her missing cousin who seems to have been taken as a POW by the Germans. She's eager to help bring him home in whatever way she can, but it will mean working with Major Ramsey once again after the two of them had an ugly falling out at the end of the last book (Locked in Pursuit).
This book unquestionably had the weakest story in the series. But did I care much? Not really. I knew going in that this book's job was to give us answers to our lingering questions and give her dynamite heroine a good ending, whatever that ended up being. And that's precisely what Weaver did here. I wish the pacing had been a bit more elegant, especially at the end, but I was so invested in these characters that, again, I really didn't care.
If you're looking for a cracking (heh) mystery series, don't hesitate to binge your way through this one to get ready for this new installment, due out in June! The one you'll want to start with is A Peculiar Combination
Many thanks to the publisher for supplying this copy via NetGalley - I'll leave out the disclaimer that this is an "honest" review because all my reviews are brutally honest, good or bad, so I think it goes without saying. 😂
Click here to hear more of my thoughts over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
September 13, 2025
The series final book and it tied everything together and did it well. My thoughts (and mine alone) are that the author had hopes of continuing the series as several of the characters plot lines were VERY neatly tied up and the war had not ended. But I was ready to move on and was happy with the last book.
June 7, 2025
Beautiful, satisfying finale. It gets so romantic that my teeth hurt a bit.
Say, Ashley Weaver: I know this series is over, but...since the war itself is far from over yet in the books, A VE Day bonus epilogue would be the BEST. Short story? Vignette? Food for thought. I don't want to give these characters up.
Say, Ashley Weaver: I know this series is over, but...since the war itself is far from over yet in the books, A VE Day bonus epilogue would be the BEST. Short story? Vignette? Food for thought. I don't want to give these characters up.
March 16, 2025
A hurried resolution to all the plot points in the series even though the POW plot was good. I wonder if more books had been planned, but the publisher said they were done. However we got here, we’re left with not much growth for Ellie, rushed explanations about her parents, a dull wrap up with what Felix was doing, and contrived situations and jealousy to move the Major along. I feel cheated out of both the character development and relationship development I was looking forward to. They got there but it was hurried. Amory and Milo got 7 books.
If you’re a fan of the series, you should read this one, but adjust your expectations.
I couldn’t quite give this one a 4 even though I’ve been a fan. I received an arc from NetGalley
If you’re a fan of the series, you should read this one, but adjust your expectations.
I couldn’t quite give this one a 4 even though I’ve been a fan. I received an arc from NetGalley
October 11, 2024
‼️A Friendly PSA‼️
Ashley Weaver, what have you done to me? I don’t know if I have ever been so giddy over a series ending. Don’t get me wrong, I am TOTALLY HEARTBROKEN that this is the end, but oh my heart, this was GLORIOUS!
Friends, I discovered this series several months ago and was immediately gobsmacked by the way it sucked me in and literally consumed me. Gabriel Ramsey and Electra McDonnell are absolute fire and ice, tortuously divine, utterly irresistible, completely intoxicating, absolutely maddening! He is the north to her south, the ying to her yang, the lock to her key, the calm to her storm.
This book doesn’t even release until next June and I have 5 ARCs due in the next few weeks, but the magnetism that these characters have would not let me wait any longer to devour their final adventure. I am over the moon with this conclusion. I need more!!! Please, please, please! How about a Kimble spin off, or Colm, or Toby???
If you have not read this series, I admonish you to rectify that immediately! This series on audio is incredible, also.
I will be talking about this book next spring closer to the release date. I don’t even want to actually review the content because I don’t want even the most minuscule detail to spoil anything. I’ll have to mull over what I can say.
Until then…go fall in love with Major Ramsey!
#electramcdonnell #electramcdonnellseries #ashleyweaver #netgalley #minotaur
Ashley Weaver, what have you done to me? I don’t know if I have ever been so giddy over a series ending. Don’t get me wrong, I am TOTALLY HEARTBROKEN that this is the end, but oh my heart, this was GLORIOUS!
Friends, I discovered this series several months ago and was immediately gobsmacked by the way it sucked me in and literally consumed me. Gabriel Ramsey and Electra McDonnell are absolute fire and ice, tortuously divine, utterly irresistible, completely intoxicating, absolutely maddening! He is the north to her south, the ying to her yang, the lock to her key, the calm to her storm.
This book doesn’t even release until next June and I have 5 ARCs due in the next few weeks, but the magnetism that these characters have would not let me wait any longer to devour their final adventure. I am over the moon with this conclusion. I need more!!! Please, please, please! How about a Kimble spin off, or Colm, or Toby???
If you have not read this series, I admonish you to rectify that immediately! This series on audio is incredible, also.
I will be talking about this book next spring closer to the release date. I don’t even want to actually review the content because I don’t want even the most minuscule detail to spoil anything. I’ll have to mull over what I can say.
Until then…go fall in love with Major Ramsey!
#electramcdonnell #electramcdonnellseries #ashleyweaver #netgalley #minotaur
April 8, 2025
A wonderful, but bittersweet, ending to a beloved series!
Electra McDonnell has been a favorite heroine since this series started. Her evolution from safe-cracking burglar to safe-cracking spy has been delightful and the love triangle has kept me on my toes, through I had a preference for the man who recruited Ellie and her family to work for the government, Major Gabriel Ramsey.
I wasn't quite sure why Ellie was included in the mission to Portugal, but I don't even care - the change of location was great and Ellie's excitement about leaving England was charming. The sleuthing was excellent, as was the action scene that has become expected in this series.
Of course, the conclusion of the story and the series was perfect. There was one loose end that I wouldn't have minded remaining unsettled, but even it got taken care of. It made me want to start the whole series over!
I was given early access to this by the publisher, but the opinions in this review are my own.
Electra McDonnell has been a favorite heroine since this series started. Her evolution from safe-cracking burglar to safe-cracking spy has been delightful and the love triangle has kept me on my toes, through I had a preference for the man who recruited Ellie and her family to work for the government, Major Gabriel Ramsey.
I wasn't quite sure why Ellie was included in the mission to Portugal, but I don't even care - the change of location was great and Ellie's excitement about leaving England was charming. The sleuthing was excellent, as was the action scene that has become expected in this series.
Of course, the conclusion of the story and the series was perfect. There was one loose end that I wouldn't have minded remaining unsettled, but even it got taken care of. It made me want to start the whole series over!
I was given early access to this by the publisher, but the opinions in this review are my own.
October 16, 2024
Knowing this would be the final adventure for Electra McDonnell, I have been slightly grieving, yet still overjoyed to embark on it with the trust that brilliant author Ashley Weaver would do justice to these wonderful characters we’ve been falling in love with over the past several years. And she has superseded my diehard fan heart and expectations with this book to the point where I stayed up and read it one sitting, and then proceeded to do the same the following night to savour my favourite parts!
As foretold by the end of ‘Locked in Pursuit,’ the series finale One Final Turn, sweeps our heroine off to Lisbon with the lovable Captain Archie Blandings with a big question mark and cloud as to Major Gabriel Ramsey’s whereabouts. The book seems to have a slow start as Ellie mechanically recounts her current days after being sacked by Ramsey and preparing for her journey. But looking back, it’s actually an excellent reflection of her practical side trying to cope with the emotional hits she’s still recovering from as a result of their traumatic Sunderland mission. After all, things certainly speed up once they reach Lisbon and the usual murder and mayhem ensues just as Ramsey arrives.
Without giving away too much, the continual dialogue and actions of the main ‘cast’ were all true to character and shone throughout the story, especially for Ellie and Ramsey as they balanced the deadly espionage with the final battle with the enemy as well as within their hearts. I was positively screaming and laughing out loud at various parts, utterly delightful!
To me, it was satisfying to be privy to the resolution within Ellie’s heart that she was desperately holding together as she determinedly proceeded with this mission. It was telling to see her emotional maturity as she reigned in her emotions to focus on their mission to aid the POW escapees, one of whom could possibly be her missing cousin, Toby. I will also allude to the fact that everyone who has been on ‘Team Ramsey’ will be grinning as widely as me, especially to see what we have all been waiting for: Ramsey “unleashed.” Throw in the conclusion to the lingering mystery of Ellie’s parents, and we have an extremely delicious race to see how everything coalesces to the wild finale.
Also, having not yet had the opportunity, I am definitely bumping Lisbon up my bucket after the lovely descriptions for this lesser known locale. The food descriptions alone had my mouth watering (and made it very believable for the return of Ellie’s finicky appetite).
I truly felt like this book was a beautiful love letter from Ms Weaver to those of readers who have been so deeply invested in Ellie from the start and waiting to continue her adventures year after year. Thank you for gifting her to the literary world and our hearts.
P.S. Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for sending me this advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
As foretold by the end of ‘Locked in Pursuit,’ the series finale One Final Turn, sweeps our heroine off to Lisbon with the lovable Captain Archie Blandings with a big question mark and cloud as to Major Gabriel Ramsey’s whereabouts. The book seems to have a slow start as Ellie mechanically recounts her current days after being sacked by Ramsey and preparing for her journey. But looking back, it’s actually an excellent reflection of her practical side trying to cope with the emotional hits she’s still recovering from as a result of their traumatic Sunderland mission. After all, things certainly speed up once they reach Lisbon and the usual murder and mayhem ensues just as Ramsey arrives.
Without giving away too much, the continual dialogue and actions of the main ‘cast’ were all true to character and shone throughout the story, especially for Ellie and Ramsey as they balanced the deadly espionage with the final battle with the enemy as well as within their hearts. I was positively screaming and laughing out loud at various parts, utterly delightful!
To me, it was satisfying to be privy to the resolution within Ellie’s heart that she was desperately holding together as she determinedly proceeded with this mission. It was telling to see her emotional maturity as she reigned in her emotions to focus on their mission to aid the POW escapees, one of whom could possibly be her missing cousin, Toby. I will also allude to the fact that everyone who has been on ‘Team Ramsey’ will be grinning as widely as me, especially to see what we have all been waiting for: Ramsey “unleashed.” Throw in the conclusion to the lingering mystery of Ellie’s parents, and we have an extremely delicious race to see how everything coalesces to the wild finale.
Also, having not yet had the opportunity, I am definitely bumping Lisbon up my bucket after the lovely descriptions for this lesser known locale. The food descriptions alone had my mouth watering (and made it very believable for the return of Ellie’s finicky appetite).
I truly felt like this book was a beautiful love letter from Ms Weaver to those of readers who have been so deeply invested in Ellie from the start and waiting to continue her adventures year after year. Thank you for gifting her to the literary world and our hearts.
P.S. Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for sending me this advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 4, 2025
Ellie McDonnell has one final mission: go to Portugal to rescue her escaped POW cousin, Toby. She's working under the command of Captain Archie Blandings—a charming diplomat. And of course, Major Gabriel Ramsey is along for the inscrutable looks and insurmountable tension. What will come of their happy trio in Lisbon? ESCAPADES, OF COURSE.
1. This was a lot of fun! There was a lot to like about it! But it was very much a cappuccino of a book when I needed a whole trenta latte: that is, this was too short and too insubstantial for it to really finish things in a satisfactory way.
2.
3. The thing is, though: This book was SHORT and it covers a lot of ground in very superficial ways. Examples include: the reconciliation between Ramsey and Ellie is glossed over so much so that it almost undermines their relationship in that they don't TALK to one another. Ramsey doesn't offer an explanation for sending Ellie away, and while Ellie does confide in him about her Secret Side Plot, the conversation is presented in summary format vs. an open dialogue about honesty and trust. They put off their conversation about staying married until the last chapter (which isn't the problem: it's a staple of the genre for a reason), but once again it's shallow to the point of being rudimentary and meaningless.
More page time is given to Ellie waffling about Ramsey touching her or not touching her than their actual conversations. And it's just a little...annoying.
Another example of this brevity damaging the book was the entire Secret Side Plot Resolution regarding the TRUTH about Ellie's parents. Which includes another "shocking" revelation of treachery and monologuing that puts a pin in that particular storyline without any thought to whether or not it resolves anything in a satisfactory manner. Note: it does not.
4. I think the thing that this book does, unfortunately, is highlight just how fantastic Weaver's concept could be with a little more time and careful plotting and consideration. Because Ellie is a decent heroine; Ramsey is a good hero (albeit lost behind the ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE FIRST PERSON NARRATIVE YOU THINK I FORGOT TO MENTION); the premise of a thief joining intelligence is fascinating; and it's set in an interesting period that lends itself to glamour but also gritty spy games!! SO MUCH POTENTIAL, and there are glimmers of it scattered throughout this book: Ellie's new confidence in playacting at the casino; her friendship with Archie; the sparks of attraction with Ramsey—but these are things I'd hope to see in book 2 or book 3 vs. the final in a series.
5. Oh and if you didn't catch that: IT'S STILL IN FIRST PERSON THE WORST PERSON JUST TO BE CLEAR.
6. Overall, I did enjoy this! But I finished in 90 minutes and I'm just not sure there's enough there for me to really, really love it.
1. This was a lot of fun! There was a lot to like about it! But it was very much a cappuccino of a book when I needed a whole trenta latte: that is, this was too short and too insubstantial for it to really finish things in a satisfactory way.
2.
3. The thing is, though: This book was SHORT and it covers a lot of ground in very superficial ways. Examples include: the reconciliation between Ramsey and Ellie is glossed over so much so that it almost undermines their relationship in that they don't TALK to one another. Ramsey doesn't offer an explanation for sending Ellie away, and while Ellie does confide in him about her Secret Side Plot, the conversation is presented in summary format vs. an open dialogue about honesty and trust. They put off their conversation about staying married until the last chapter (which isn't the problem: it's a staple of the genre for a reason), but once again it's shallow to the point of being rudimentary and meaningless.
More page time is given to Ellie waffling about Ramsey touching her or not touching her than their actual conversations. And it's just a little...annoying.
Another example of this brevity damaging the book was the entire Secret Side Plot Resolution regarding the TRUTH about Ellie's parents. Which includes another "shocking" revelation of treachery and monologuing that puts a pin in that particular storyline without any thought to whether or not it resolves anything in a satisfactory manner. Note: it does not.
4. I think the thing that this book does, unfortunately, is highlight just how fantastic Weaver's concept could be with a little more time and careful plotting and consideration. Because Ellie is a decent heroine; Ramsey is a good hero (albeit lost behind the ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE FIRST PERSON NARRATIVE YOU THINK I FORGOT TO MENTION); the premise of a thief joining intelligence is fascinating; and it's set in an interesting period that lends itself to glamour but also gritty spy games!! SO MUCH POTENTIAL, and there are glimmers of it scattered throughout this book: Ellie's new confidence in playacting at the casino; her friendship with Archie; the sparks of attraction with Ramsey—but these are things I'd hope to see in book 2 or book 3 vs. the final in a series.
5. Oh and if you didn't catch that: IT'S STILL IN FIRST PERSON THE WORST PERSON JUST TO BE CLEAR.
6. Overall, I did enjoy this! But I finished in 90 minutes and I'm just not sure there's enough there for me to really, really love it.
May 6, 2025
I have loved every moment of this series and I’m sad this is the final book. This story like all the others was a fast read because it was difficult to stop reading. I plan to reread the entire series. This final book will satisfy the reader in all areas. It was action packed and also had some tender moments. There was even a mention of praying a few times. If you enjoy WWII historical fiction, spy craft, suspense, red herrings and light, sweet romance this is the book for you. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an ARC, and this is my own, unbiased review.
I was blessed with an ARC, and this is my own, unbiased review.
May 4, 2025
I will forever be sad that we won't get more books in this series, but since it had to end, I am glad the series went out on such a high note. The book did a great job wrapping up the series' central mysteries in a satisfying way. Still, there was likely enough of a story to have another book, especially concerning Ellie's parents.
While I've enjoyed the mysteries, the romance between Electra and Ramsey has kept me so engaged in the series, and wow, did this book deliver on that front!
I cannot recommend this series enough and am already planning a full reread of the series in the fall.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and Netgalley for providing the ARC.
--
I accidentally read this in one sitting and now I am having all the feelings. Actual review to come once I'm able to formulate coherent thoughts.
While I've enjoyed the mysteries, the romance between Electra and Ramsey has kept me so engaged in the series, and wow, did this book deliver on that front!
I cannot recommend this series enough and am already planning a full reread of the series in the fall.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and Netgalley for providing the ARC.
--
I accidentally read this in one sitting and now I am having all the feelings. Actual review to come once I'm able to formulate coherent thoughts.
August 22, 2025
Well, I finished this in one sitting as I had planned but now I am super bummed that there's nothing left for me to read in this series.
I loved all 5 of these books, this series is utterly delightful. I love cozy mysteries for a lot of reasons, but mostly because of the romance subplot that's always included and boy did this one deliver. Do I wish the series would've been dragged out a bit more with another book or two because some things were wrapped up way too quickly? Of course. I would happily read another 5 books of Ellie and Ramsey just getting their happily ever after, but I'll take what I can get.
I saw everything coming a mile away, and I do wish we'd had more actual conversations between the Major and Ellie but it's not enough to take off a star, I had heart eyes at the end. Which is no mean feat, as I spent the majority of this book being absolutely frustrated with the Major this time (I just wanted him to get his shit together and own up to his feelings to put Ellie out of her misery).
But I loved that declaration at the end, even if it should've been three pages longer to fully appease me.
I'll definitely be checking out the Amory Ames series soon!
I loved all 5 of these books, this series is utterly delightful. I love cozy mysteries for a lot of reasons, but mostly because of the romance subplot that's always included and boy did this one deliver. Do I wish the series would've been dragged out a bit more with another book or two because some things were wrapped up way too quickly? Of course. I would happily read another 5 books of Ellie and Ramsey just getting their happily ever after, but I'll take what I can get.
I saw everything coming a mile away, and I do wish we'd had more actual conversations between the Major and Ellie but it's not enough to take off a star, I had heart eyes at the end. Which is no mean feat, as I spent the majority of this book being absolutely frustrated with the Major this time (I just wanted him to get his shit together and own up to his feelings to put Ellie out of her misery).
But I loved that declaration at the end, even if it should've been three pages longer to fully appease me.
I'll definitely be checking out the Amory Ames series soon!
June 20, 2025
5 heart gasping, swooning, clutching pearls STARS.
Absolute perfection from beginning to end. Thank you Ashley Weaver for giving us the amazing couple that is Electra & Ramsey. I could not ship them more. There needs to be a spin off series where they solve crimes together as a team, PLEASE AND THANK YOU.
Also wouldn’t mind if she tried her hand at an actual romance novel, she has it all going for her!
Absolute perfection from beginning to end. Thank you Ashley Weaver for giving us the amazing couple that is Electra & Ramsey. I could not ship them more. There needs to be a spin off series where they solve crimes together as a team, PLEASE AND THANK YOU.
Also wouldn’t mind if she tried her hand at an actual romance novel, she has it all going for her!
June 5, 2025
Wow!
Word is that’s Electra’s cousin Toby may have escaped from a German prison via an unknown route through the Pyrenees to Lisbon. The British Government wants to help maintain that trail but need to find out who’s running it. Ellie is off to Lisbon to investigate along with an unknown handler Captain Archie Blandings who’s based in Lisbon. Major Gabriel Ramsey the intelligence officer whom she’d become close to, both personally and work wise is apparently going too, but fortunately Ellie is not under his command. Difficult! The last Ellie saw of the Major was when he’d rejected, then dismissed her.
Portugal is neutral and as such Lisbon is a hotbed of spies, officers and opportunists from all sides of the war.
Each time Ellie and Archie have a lead someone is one step ahead and they find themselves tripping over the bodies of those who might’ve helped!
I found myself chocking up at times, particularly as the sundered relationship between Ellie and Gabriel is always running in the background.
A brilliant conclusion to this series, resolving all sorts of questions Ellie and we readers have had, with the right amount of drama and sympathy.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Word is that’s Electra’s cousin Toby may have escaped from a German prison via an unknown route through the Pyrenees to Lisbon. The British Government wants to help maintain that trail but need to find out who’s running it. Ellie is off to Lisbon to investigate along with an unknown handler Captain Archie Blandings who’s based in Lisbon. Major Gabriel Ramsey the intelligence officer whom she’d become close to, both personally and work wise is apparently going too, but fortunately Ellie is not under his command. Difficult! The last Ellie saw of the Major was when he’d rejected, then dismissed her.
Portugal is neutral and as such Lisbon is a hotbed of spies, officers and opportunists from all sides of the war.
Each time Ellie and Archie have a lead someone is one step ahead and they find themselves tripping over the bodies of those who might’ve helped!
I found myself chocking up at times, particularly as the sundered relationship between Ellie and Gabriel is always running in the background.
A brilliant conclusion to this series, resolving all sorts of questions Ellie and we readers have had, with the right amount of drama and sympathy.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
December 28, 2024
At the end of Locked in Pursuit, the fourth novel in the series, safecracker-turned-spy Electra “Ellie” McDonnell and her handler — tall, blonde, handsome and stern Major Gabriel Ramsey — had a serious falling out. Forget romance; they were no longer on speaking terms. Be that as it may, the pair of them were dispatched to Lisbon to follow up on the Nazi spy ring they’d uncovered in Locked in Pursuit. Thus begins book No. 5, One Final Turn.
As the title indicates, what was to have been a trilogy set during World War II will be ending with this fifth cozy mystery. Can these two adversaries even work together to foil the Nazis? And, as readers have been wondering for years now, can independent, improvising Ellie and the by-the-book, unbending major overcome their natures and find love? You’ll be on the edge of your seat to the last page as author Ashley Weaver ties up the loose ends. Highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur Press in exchange for an honest review.
As the title indicates, what was to have been a trilogy set during World War II will be ending with this fifth cozy mystery. Can these two adversaries even work together to foil the Nazis? And, as readers have been wondering for years now, can independent, improvising Ellie and the by-the-book, unbending major overcome their natures and find love? You’ll be on the edge of your seat to the last page as author Ashley Weaver ties up the loose ends. Highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur Press in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2025
1941 London & Libson
Bom Trabalho (well done in Portuguese)! While I'm sad to see the series end, what a satisfying conclusion.
Ellie heads to Libson where she works with Captain Archie Blandings to ferret out what happened to her cousin Toby. Intelligence has indicated Toby escaped from a German Prisoner of War Camp. And of course Major Ramsey arrives in Libson as well, not at all pleased with the cozy cover between Ellie and Archie.
Lots of action and some laughs as well on this wonderful final journey with Electra McDonnell. Love seeing her use her skills to find her cousin and help the war effort.
Archie was a wonderful character and he clearly enjoyed frustrating Major Ramsey.
Favorite quote comes from Archie "But you must acknowledge that while Ramsey is a capital fellow, he needs the starch taken out of him occasionally".
I look forward to what will be next by this talented author.
My gratitude to St Martin's Press for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Bom Trabalho (well done in Portuguese)! While I'm sad to see the series end, what a satisfying conclusion.
Ellie heads to Libson where she works with Captain Archie Blandings to ferret out what happened to her cousin Toby. Intelligence has indicated Toby escaped from a German Prisoner of War Camp. And of course Major Ramsey arrives in Libson as well, not at all pleased with the cozy cover between Ellie and Archie.
Lots of action and some laughs as well on this wonderful final journey with Electra McDonnell. Love seeing her use her skills to find her cousin and help the war effort.
Archie was a wonderful character and he clearly enjoyed frustrating Major Ramsey.
Favorite quote comes from Archie "But you must acknowledge that while Ramsey is a capital fellow, he needs the starch taken out of him occasionally".
I look forward to what will be next by this talented author.
My gratitude to St Martin's Press for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 17, 2025
Nice conclusion to the story. Was happy with the way details were tied up and the HEAs for characters.
January 19, 2025
The Electra McDonnell series should NOT be ending this soon, and that is a hill I will forever die on.
Last fall I binged the first four books in the span of a few days, resulting in my most severe book hangover of the decade. For weeks I drank sugary tea, listened to 1940s playlists, and read WWII nonfiction because I wanted to immerse myself in Ellie’s world. After a lifetime of avoiding social media, I joined Instagram solely to follow Ashley Weaver for updates about this book. Even so, I debated for several months about requesting the ARC - I love these characters so much and I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet. I would've gladly read another book or three in this series. But June is so far away, and eventually I was ready to face the disappointment I'd feel at its (premature!) conclusion. So here goes...
As expected, this was a fever dream of a reading experience. I devoured it for the first time in one sitting, then read it again a week later to savor it even further. Lisbon was well-drawn and an almost joyful escape from the darkness and devastation of Blitz-era London. Despite the stakes, the mission played a smaller role in this story - most of Ellie's time was spent gallivanting around the city with Archie and waging some light emotional warfare on Ramsey (not entirely undeserved and very enjoyable!). All of my favorite characters made an appearance at some point, however briefly. And as much as I don't want this series to be over, it was definitely time for a *Major* development in Ellie's deliciously angsty relationship with Ramsey.
The pacing felt a bit uneven towards the end, with multiple long-running storylines wrapping up quickly, and it was missing a couple things that I would’ve loved to see in the final installment (more on that below). But those are minor complaints compared to how much I love the series as a whole, and merely a testament to how very real these characters became to me. I was never going to give this book any less than five stars and overall it was a highly satisfying conclusion.
Many thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
But above all, I'm so grateful to Ashley Weaver for writing this series. For me, it was one of those magical experiences where the exact right book found me at the exact right time. Ellie's spirit and resilience spoke to me during a difficult period in my life when I often struggled to find those things in myself. These books gave me so much joy when I most needed it, and I'll return to them again and again. Thank you, always.
Last fall I binged the first four books in the span of a few days, resulting in my most severe book hangover of the decade. For weeks I drank sugary tea, listened to 1940s playlists, and read WWII nonfiction because I wanted to immerse myself in Ellie’s world. After a lifetime of avoiding social media, I joined Instagram solely to follow Ashley Weaver for updates about this book. Even so, I debated for several months about requesting the ARC - I love these characters so much and I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet. I would've gladly read another book or three in this series. But June is so far away, and eventually I was ready to face the disappointment I'd feel at its (premature!) conclusion. So here goes...
As expected, this was a fever dream of a reading experience. I devoured it for the first time in one sitting, then read it again a week later to savor it even further. Lisbon was well-drawn and an almost joyful escape from the darkness and devastation of Blitz-era London. Despite the stakes, the mission played a smaller role in this story - most of Ellie's time was spent gallivanting around the city with Archie and waging some light emotional warfare on Ramsey (not entirely undeserved and very enjoyable!). All of my favorite characters made an appearance at some point, however briefly. And as much as I don't want this series to be over, it was definitely time for a *Major* development in Ellie's deliciously angsty relationship with Ramsey.
The pacing felt a bit uneven towards the end, with multiple long-running storylines wrapping up quickly, and it was missing a couple things that I would’ve loved to see in the final installment (more on that below). But those are minor complaints compared to how much I love the series as a whole, and merely a testament to how very real these characters became to me. I was never going to give this book any less than five stars and overall it was a highly satisfying conclusion.
Many thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
But above all, I'm so grateful to Ashley Weaver for writing this series. For me, it was one of those magical experiences where the exact right book found me at the exact right time. Ellie's spirit and resilience spoke to me during a difficult period in my life when I often struggled to find those things in myself. These books gave me so much joy when I most needed it, and I'll return to them again and again. Thank you, always.
June 12, 2025
Somehow forgot to review this, but I've already read it twice so that should tell you everything. Highly recommend reading this while simultaneously hyperfixating over the Operation Mincemeat cast recording.
June 21, 2025
Y'all... I have LOVED this series right from book 1 and was distraught to learn this would be the final installment. I ADORE the characters. SO MUCH. Like I don't want to leave them. I want to follow them right through the end of the war and on into their old age. Don't make me leave them! But all good things must come to an end... or so they say. Ashley certainly didn't take it easy on us readers with this one. I was on the edge of my seat as the tension ramped up. I didn't want to put it down. I needed to know that all would come right in the end. Did it? You'll have to read for yourself to find out. But I will say this... that was one heck of an ending to the series! What a ride! GO READ THIS ENTIRE SERIES if you haven't already!
I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All gushing is entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All gushing is entirely my own.
September 11, 2025
Wow! One Final Turn had me turning the pages in the last book of the Electra McDonnell series. I wanted to take my time and savor each page, and at the same time, I wanted to hurry up and see how it all ended. I was not disappointed at all; in fact, I absolutely loved it. The romance was so sweet and swoony. I do not want to give anything away, but my favorite romance trope was used. The author did a great job of tying up all the loose ends and made this romantic mystery a wonderful happy conclusion to the series.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
August 2, 2025
Mixed feelings about this last book, sadly, but I do love these characters and I’m sad the series is at an end. I wanted to follow them through the whole war. Buddy reading this series with Angie has been such a delightful! Our conversations have been the best. I still have a big crush on Major Ramsey. After Tony Morley in the Mrs Tim series, I’d choose Gabriel for my book boyfriend. 😂
August 18, 2025
I am seriously heartbroken that this series is over. 😭😭😭
It was so good. I consumed the entire series in audiobook form and the narrator was fantastic. I found myself rewinding frequently just so I wouldn’t get to the end too quickly. I didn’t want it to be over.
My mooshy heart is well and truly satisfied and my love of a good spy story is fulfilled. I will have a serious book hangover on this one. Long live Ramsey and Electra. ❤️
It was so good. I consumed the entire series in audiobook form and the narrator was fantastic. I found myself rewinding frequently just so I wouldn’t get to the end too quickly. I didn’t want it to be over.
My mooshy heart is well and truly satisfied and my love of a good spy story is fulfilled. I will have a serious book hangover on this one. Long live Ramsey and Electra. ❤️
October 11, 2024
MY GOODNESS. This series owns my heart, and I fear there is no hope of getting it back. To say goodbye to Ellie, Major Ramsey, and all the endearing side characters is so hard. As the last book in the series, One Final Turn is everything I hoped for and more. This WWII story is brimming with mystery, danger, and espionage. And of course, ROMANTIC TENSION.
The tension that exists between Ellie and Major Ramsey is palpable! The agonizing slow burn drove me mad in the best possible way. They have such an amazing dynamic. With her spunky, strong-will and his strait-laced stoicism, they are truly well-matched! Though the pair is on rocky ground at the start, the road to reconciliation is well worth the wait. After the endless angst and denial of feelings, it is so satisfying when their relationship finally reaches a beautiful crescendo as the series comes to a close! If you were restless for more romance in the previous books, fear not. There is an ample amount in this story, and it is SO GOOD.
Apart from the maddening romance, this story has many other exciting elements. For the most part, this series lacks the overt heaviness so often found in WWII stories. Instead, it has more of a daring and adventurous vibe, with a dash of wit and whimsy. As Ellie continues safecracking on the right side of the law, she is enlisted to travel to Lisbon, Portugal with Major Ramsey and Captain Blandings (the clever, cheeky match-maker!) to help uncover an escape route network for prisoners of war. She also continues her amateur sleuthing in hopes of uncovering the mysteries behind her parents’ untimely deaths and questionable war-alliances.
One Final Turn may be my favorite book in the series. It could be because the characters have become like old friends. Or maybe it’s because closure is provided for the many open-ended questions and unresolved relationships. My heart was truly invested in this series, and Ashley Weaver delivered a finale that is tender and exhilarating. Trust me, this series is a must read!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy. I’m still pinching myself that I was given the opportunity to read this early!
The tension that exists between Ellie and Major Ramsey is palpable! The agonizing slow burn drove me mad in the best possible way. They have such an amazing dynamic. With her spunky, strong-will and his strait-laced stoicism, they are truly well-matched! Though the pair is on rocky ground at the start, the road to reconciliation is well worth the wait. After the endless angst and denial of feelings, it is so satisfying when their relationship finally reaches a beautiful crescendo as the series comes to a close! If you were restless for more romance in the previous books, fear not. There is an ample amount in this story, and it is SO GOOD.
Apart from the maddening romance, this story has many other exciting elements. For the most part, this series lacks the overt heaviness so often found in WWII stories. Instead, it has more of a daring and adventurous vibe, with a dash of wit and whimsy. As Ellie continues safecracking on the right side of the law, she is enlisted to travel to Lisbon, Portugal with Major Ramsey and Captain Blandings (the clever, cheeky match-maker!) to help uncover an escape route network for prisoners of war. She also continues her amateur sleuthing in hopes of uncovering the mysteries behind her parents’ untimely deaths and questionable war-alliances.
One Final Turn may be my favorite book in the series. It could be because the characters have become like old friends. Or maybe it’s because closure is provided for the many open-ended questions and unresolved relationships. My heart was truly invested in this series, and Ashley Weaver delivered a finale that is tender and exhilarating. Trust me, this series is a must read!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy. I’m still pinching myself that I was given the opportunity to read this early!
June 29, 2025
Was the writing of this book actually worthy of this high a rating? I don’t think so. Certain aspects of the writing style bothered me and struck me as semi-juvenile.
BUT I DON’T CARE. This book had me feeling things. So many things. I was audibly giggling and I actually slapped my hand over my mouth a few times at the TENSION and BUILDUP that was happening in this book. Honestly, it read more like the epic conclusion to the longest slow-burn ever than a good mystery/spy/mission novel. And I’m 1000% here for it.
The tension. The drama. The banter. The jealousy. The romance. The steam (not too spicy but definitely makes you fan yourself; a tad saucy, if you will). The back and forth. The conclusion. My heart is so happy.
This is a “feelings” rating. And I’m okay with that. I loved it.
BUT I DON’T CARE. This book had me feeling things. So many things. I was audibly giggling and I actually slapped my hand over my mouth a few times at the TENSION and BUILDUP that was happening in this book. Honestly, it read more like the epic conclusion to the longest slow-burn ever than a good mystery/spy/mission novel. And I’m 1000% here for it.
The tension. The drama. The banter. The jealousy. The romance. The steam (not too spicy but definitely makes you fan yourself; a tad saucy, if you will). The back and forth. The conclusion. My heart is so happy.
This is a “feelings” rating. And I’m okay with that. I loved it.
June 10, 2025
I was so so so looking forward to this book! But after finishing it I mostly feel bummed and a little jipped.
We’ve had four books building up Electra’s big secretive past, but the reveal was very anticlimactic and it happens in the second to last chapter with one measly little mention in the beginning. It felt like a story that had been planned out for a while and then the author realized this would be the end so she had to go back in and hastily add the parts about Electra’s parents to make it acceptable as the last book in the series.
I also hated that they slept together. In this case it is irrelevant that they were married. They were married in paper only, yet they used it to justify their actions. It was yucky. I wish they would have just had a grown up conversation (to go BEFORE their grown up actions) because now it feels like the only real basis of their relationship is physical attraction. They got there in the end, and that was nice, but it would have felt much better if it had happened before they slept together. Not to mention it also felt very out of character for Ramsey to allow himself to be seduced by Electra when his honor and character has been built up so sturdily throughout the whole series to this point.
Lastly, she still chose to lie to him for most of the book until she gets over herself in the end FINALLY! And now everything is finally hunky dory and we won’t get any more espionage with them now that their relationship is on solid ground. I would have loved a solid relationship by book two or three and a united front sleuthing out the enemy together. Rather than constant secrets and lies in every facet of their lives.
“It was good, it was okay, but overall I feel disappointed”
We’ve had four books building up Electra’s big secretive past, but the reveal was very anticlimactic and it happens in the second to last chapter with one measly little mention in the beginning. It felt like a story that had been planned out for a while and then the author realized this would be the end so she had to go back in and hastily add the parts about Electra’s parents to make it acceptable as the last book in the series.
I also hated that they slept together. In this case it is irrelevant that they were married. They were married in paper only, yet they used it to justify their actions. It was yucky. I wish they would have just had a grown up conversation (to go BEFORE their grown up actions) because now it feels like the only real basis of their relationship is physical attraction. They got there in the end, and that was nice, but it would have felt much better if it had happened before they slept together. Not to mention it also felt very out of character for Ramsey to allow himself to be seduced by Electra when his honor and character has been built up so sturdily throughout the whole series to this point.
Lastly, she still chose to lie to him for most of the book until she gets over herself in the end FINALLY! And now everything is finally hunky dory and we won’t get any more espionage with them now that their relationship is on solid ground. I would have loved a solid relationship by book two or three and a united front sleuthing out the enemy together. Rather than constant secrets and lies in every facet of their lives.
“It was good, it was okay, but overall I feel disappointed”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
I was so looking forward to this conclusion of the series but the romance was way too oversaturated and rushed compared to the rest of the books. The actual plot that the author was building up to was weak. :/
June 22, 2025
What a conclusion to a fun series!
Edited to add:
This is the last installment in the Electra McDonnell series. This series has standalone mysteries accompanied by other storylines that transverse each book. In One Final Turn, the readers get the answers they have been waiting for. I wouldn't recommend reading this on its own. Definitely start with book one and enjoy this delightful series! (Just an FYI for those interested...the audio for these books is great!)
Electra continues her escapades in Portugal with Ramsey and some other collogues. I just love all of these characters, and it was nice to see them return for this finale. I am so glad that a friend recommended this author to me. I didn't know that the series had ongoing mysteries, and when I started I didn't realize it wasn't complete! It wasn't until I got to book 4 that I realized this one hadn't been released yet! Talk about anxiety!
Now that we have all of the books, I encourage anyone that enjoys cozy mysteries/light suspense with hints of romance, to pick up this series and ENJOY!
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley. I am happily and voluntarily leaving an honest review. And also in full disclosure, I also purchased and listened to the audiobook on the day it was released.
Edited to add:
This is the last installment in the Electra McDonnell series. This series has standalone mysteries accompanied by other storylines that transverse each book. In One Final Turn, the readers get the answers they have been waiting for. I wouldn't recommend reading this on its own. Definitely start with book one and enjoy this delightful series! (Just an FYI for those interested...the audio for these books is great!)
Electra continues her escapades in Portugal with Ramsey and some other collogues. I just love all of these characters, and it was nice to see them return for this finale. I am so glad that a friend recommended this author to me. I didn't know that the series had ongoing mysteries, and when I started I didn't realize it wasn't complete! It wasn't until I got to book 4 that I realized this one hadn't been released yet! Talk about anxiety!
Now that we have all of the books, I encourage anyone that enjoys cozy mysteries/light suspense with hints of romance, to pick up this series and ENJOY!
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley. I am happily and voluntarily leaving an honest review. And also in full disclosure, I also purchased and listened to the audiobook on the day it was released.
April 3, 2025
I just finished One Final Turn - Electra McDonnell #5 by Ashley Weaver and here are my thoughts. This is the final installment.
Publisher - @minotaur_books
Genre - Historical Mystery
I almost didn't read it. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye… It was wonderfully bittersweet though.
Electra is one of my favorite FMCs.. She has come so far in this series.. She starts out cracking safes and she ends up cracking safes as a spy! The book starts out with Electra reeling from Ramsey firing her. Those two are hot and cold soooo we start in the arctic part of their relationship. The will they won’t they has been maddening but it is all tied up by the end of the book.
You can really see how Electra has grown over the series and she held it together while they were rescuing the POWs. The tension in this book was crackling! So much action and sighhhh the romance. A lot going on in one installment but its done with such gravitas! I’m not going to lie… It did feel a bit rushed in places. I think another 2 books would have wrapped things up better but the author did an amazing job of ending the series to a satisfactory level.
The writing is phenomenal and I felt all the feels while reading. Honestly, you should start this series from the beginning. You could try it as a standalone but the magic is in the characters and you need the whole story.
I feel like I am losing the best group of friends but all good things have to end sometime. I just didn’t expect it to be now…
4 stars.
Thank you Minotaur Books for my gifted copy
Out June 3rd 2025
February 15, 2025
I read the entire series in one week. I was especially excited when I was approved for the final book on NetGalley! The final book was amazing. There was the plot twist I had hoped for. Ones I didn’t see coming. And a “turn” that made me so happy, because I knew it meant the main characters were learning and growing. I loved watching multiple mysteries unfold, romance finally happening, and of course the adventure of it all.
I would say this series is a combination of Miss Scarlett and the Duke with White Collar. Two of my favorite shows in one. This is a book series that makes me remember why I love fiction. I loved the main characters, side characters, and lessons learned. I can’t wait to read this again!
I would say this series is a combination of Miss Scarlett and the Duke with White Collar. Two of my favorite shows in one. This is a book series that makes me remember why I love fiction. I loved the main characters, side characters, and lessons learned. I can’t wait to read this again!
April 23, 2025
For the record, I am still utterly DISTRAUGHT that this is the final book in this series. But, if the series must end, I am very, very pleased with the outcome. Sure, I think that the stuff with Electra's parents could have used another book, but was I really in this for the overarching mystery plot? No, I was not.
What I was in this series for is the romance between Gabriel and Electra and reader, there were times I was biting my fist because Ashley Weaver was giving me exactly what I wanted.
Eagerly awaiting the author's next series whenever that might be. Thank you so much for this one, I am very happy.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
What I was in this series for is the romance between Gabriel and Electra and reader, there were times I was biting my fist because Ashley Weaver was giving me exactly what I wanted.
Eagerly awaiting the author's next series whenever that might be. Thank you so much for this one, I am very happy.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
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