A Moment's Shadow

Verity Kent Mysteries #8

by Anna Lee Huber

Violence, reprisal, and intrigue abound in post-World War I Ireland as the bloody conflict between the Irish Republican Army and the British authorities continues to escalate.  But former Secret Service agent Verity Kent must deal with a more immediate concern—the possession of poisonous gas by a ruthless adversary . . .

August 1920, Dublin,  A fraught task keeps Verity and her husband Sidney in the country after their initial clandestine mission has been the traitor Lord Ardmore is scheming to employ the deadly phosgene gas he’s stolen for some terrifying purpose, and the couple will need both the Crown forces and the rebels’ help to thwart him.

As they pursue their quarry, they are drawn into a case involving a series of cunning and brazen jewel thefts. Many believe it is the work of the Irish rebels, seeking to fund their revolution, but when Verity and Sidney are also approached by Michael Collins and the IRA to unmask the thief, they suspect he may instead be an opportunist using the political unrest as a cover for his crimes.

As the thief continues to pull ever more risky jobs—including targeting Verity and their friends—the couple receive new intelligence that the gas they seek may be intended for a crowded event, one that the entire world will be attuned to. They must stop Lord Ardmore at all costs—or the consequences will be devastating . . .

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Ireland, Historical, Historical Mystery, Fiction, Audiobook

369 pages, Paperback

First published August 26, 2025

About the author

Anna Lee Huber is the USA Today bestselling and Daphne award-winning author of the Lady Darby Mysteries, the Verity Kent Mysteries, the Gothic Myths series, as well as Sisters of Fortune: A Novel of the Titanic and the anthology The Deadly Hours. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she majored in music and minored in psychology. She currently resides in Indiana with her family and is hard at work on her next novel. Visit her online at www.annaleehuber.com.

Reviews

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story continues with Verity and Sidney Kent still visiting Dublin in 1920 following WWI. Verity is a former secret agent for the British War Office and Sidney is a war hero. Her former boss C sent them to find their friend and missing British agent Alec who was working to infiltrate the IRA in the prior book. They found him but he is has gone to the other side. This story has a rich tapestry of historical events that took place in Ireland with hunger strikes, reprisals, lies, deception, and violence between the rebels and the British government. Against this backdrop, the Kents are thrown into investigating a thief who is hitting the British society parties in Dublin and grabbing jewels during the events. They are also still looking for phosgene gas cylinders stolen by their nemesis Lord Ardmore, afraid of what he plans to do with it. Tensions are high and this kept the story suspenseful and edgy. They don't know who to trust and for good reason as events turn out. The story ends with quite a cliffhanger that I didn't see coming. Another good, intense read with history, emotion, and conflict.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.

[Jeannine · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an Irish American whose relatives left Ireland during the period in which this book is set, I was nervous about this phase of the Verity Kent series, which I have enjoyed immensely over the last several years. My fears were allayed quickly in that book, as Anna Lee Huber treated the British and the IRA fairly. Verity and Sidney themselves were conflicted over their allegiance as they saw the brutality of British occupation in Ireland. In the second book, the couple is dealing with two investigations. Officially, they are looking for a jewel thief. Unofficially, the search for some poison gas canisters that went missing at the end of the war (WW2) continues.

The research involved in writing this book must have been herculean. The setting and atmosphere saturate the page. Anyone unfamiliar with the history of Ireland could feel overwhelmed by all this information, but I appreciated all the detail and learned quite a bit myself!

This book ends on quite the cliffhanger, but there's one development at the end that ushers in a new phase of this series. We get a tiny bit of the first chapter from the next book to ponder during the wait for the next installment. Also, they found the gas canisters!!


Reviews are for readers. I received an advanced copy on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am officially done with this series. This makes me very sad and I will be in book-mourning for some time I think.

I have loved this series from book 1 [and was so glad I took a chance on it as it really was my jam ], BUT the continued nonsense of chasing the Lord Ardmore [HOW many times can we say his name and/or phosgene gas in each book? MANY MANY times apparently ] over the course of F I V E books [can this storyline PLEASE be wrapped up? I might start reading these again if that happened ASAP ], the devolution of Verity from a badass secret agent/spy to essentially just window-dressing [I will say I am grateful there is a LOT less focus on her clothes and jewelry than there was in #7 ], and back-to-back CLIFFHANGERS [which screams to me that 1. the author has NO IDEA how to wrap this all up, and/or 2. the author is engaging in both lazy {which was becoming obvious as far back as book #6} AND baiting writing {if your writing is good, you don't need the tricks of cliffhangers to get your readers to read the next book in the series IMO} ], and I am afraid my love of the books and my patience for nonsense-writing is at an end, which again, makes me very sad and also very frustrated as a reader.

I will say I HAVE loved the Irish history of books #7 & #8 [even though the story, as well as Verity and Sidney get completely lost in all that history and the names and places and activities amidst The Troubles ] and it reminded me that I really want to find books on both Michael Collins and that time period. Unfortunately, the overall story gets really lost in this rich [and important ] history and ultimately this benefits no one [especially the invested reader ] and because of that, everything [even when they finally DO find and intercept the phosgene gas ] else feels flat and meh.

What a disappointing read.

Thank you to NetGalley, Anna Lee Huber, and Kensington Publishing/Kensington for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ellen Johnson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really disliked this installment. I had high hopes for this one after the last one just fell flat. The mystery felt flat and forced. Plus I don’t like the overarching Ardmore aspect. I won’t be continuing this series and I hate that because up until the last book, the series was excellent.

[EJ Cunningham · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn’t love this book. I only barely got through the last one, and this book recreated all of its flaws. Too much exposition, too little character development. This series has been at its best when it challenges the characters and their relationships. This book felt like it had very little of those moments. I’m getting bored of Lord Ardmore, and I wish there could be more forward momentum — especially after having to wait over a year for the next installment. If there’s a story to be told here, maybe it should have been one volume? I like it when the characters are at the center of the mystery, and this series has done that excellently in the past.

[Ls · Rating 2 out of 5]

Seriously?? another book in the series with no conclusion. After the disappointing cliffhanger end to the last book I fully expected the story to have a conclusion but no it didnt. What a disappointment. The previous novels were connected by characters and history but always had a mystery that was solved.

[Adrienne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow, I really had a hard time reading this book. I couldn't get into the story. I love the author and I have read the whole Verity series, which I have previously enjoyed. This one just was boring. A book of this length normally takes one day to read. This one took 4.

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m not a fan of a cliffhanger and so was completely frustrated with this ending! Add to that, I’m sick to death of this whole Ardmore/phosgene storyline! It has gone on and on and on! The historical setting (1920s Ireland with British and IRA at war) is a terrifying, sad and interesting one but I felt it was a repeat of the last book.

I loved this series so I’m sad to say I probably won’t continue.

I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Don’t read if you are not a fan of cliffhanging endings

I have never wanted to throw a book against the wall more than I did with this one.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the Verity/Sidney stories and was looking forward to this one — especially wince the “arch nemesis” story line with Ardmore had dragged on so long I was hoping to finally have it resolved.

Instead, it was a book full of “hurry up and wait” for things to happen, with an absurd cliff-hanger ending.

So very frustrating and such a disappointment. I’m not sure I’ll ever trust this author again, which is a real shame.

[Marion · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the Verity Kent series, but this one was a bit of a disappointment for me. There is so much exposition, from catching readers up on the past events in the earlier novels to the revolutionary activities in Ireland fighting for Independence from England, that it dampened my view of this installment.

I complained to a friend that this book is more talk and no action. As soon as I said that, the last quarter of the book turns out to be nothing but suspenseful action. And Huber has offered up the kind of ending I hate, guaranteeing that I’ll wait with bated breath for Book #9

[Lynn Horton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe I’m just getting pickier about what I read, but this book, like Ms. Huber’s more recent works, seems to suffer from too many characters; too much dialogue, pondering, and introspection; and too little action. For me, the story has pacing issues.

[Pat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very tired of the Ardmore/phosgene storyline. Quite a cliffhanger ending. Hoping the series will revitalize again with the next book.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Ms. Huber once agains transports her readers to Ireland set against the atmospheric backdrop of the Irish Revolution. Although many of these books can be read as standalone, I highly recommend that you read the books in order....the story and character arcs are apart of a much bigger picture.

Ms. Huber expertly includes quite a bit of historical detail, but I found it was an integral part of the plot. This is a time when loyalties are questioned amidst the disillusionment of politics in a nation fighting for Home Rule. Verity and Sydney are trying to locate a weapon, that if in the wrong hands, could cause mass destruction. But their mission to uncover the plot of a master villain may have dire consequences for one of my favorite sleuthing duos.

I love how the author brings the blurred lines of this conflict to a personal level for Verity and Sydney. The book ends with a massive turning point that leads to some foreshadowing for the next book, making me wonder upon which side of the conflict Verity and Sydney will end.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher through Netgalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Madelyn R. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not her best work

I am a fan of Huber's series but this book seemed interminable. No action till the
very end and little of the Verity Kent charm I love. It is as though we just had to get to a point to connect the books.

[Jess · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really just don't like this trip to Ireland. I feel the same way about it as I do when romance authors write Egypt historical novels.

[Betty Strohecker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this author! I love this series! However, I found this book tedious. Continuing the story of Verity and Sidney in Dublin, looking for dangerous phosgene gas highjacked by their nemesis Lord Ardmore as well as an agent (Xavier) who had disappeared from British contact, Huber left me confused, with much that I needed to refresh my memory from the previous book. I had to make a list of the numerous characters and their positions on the British side of the government in Ireland as well as the Irish rebels to make sense of what was going on as each character appeared in numerous dinner parties, balls, or in the case of the rebels, at many hideouts. There was suspense, but after a while, it became more annoying than suspenseful. There was a pattern of follow leads for the phosgene, meet secretly with rebels, attend events with British leaders to find out the latest position of the government, learn about the latest terrorism on both sides, then start all over again. This was drawn out too long, and as I said above, became very tedious. The ending was a cliff-hanger that won't be resolved until next year. By that time, I will be confused again. But I have my notes, if I decide to continue this series.

[Sharyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This should not be read as a standalone. As a matter of fact, it is an immediate continuation of the previous book. Verity and Sydney are still in Ireland searching for canisters of gas stolen after WWI. It is August 1920 and we are amidst the Irish rebellion. This book is so realistic that I kept googling all that was happening to see what was historically accurate. The violence that permeated Ireland at this time from both sides, British and IRA is quite upsetting to read. Verity and Sydney, though British are feeling sympathy for the Irish. Verity, who was a spy during WWI sees comparisons with how the Germans used fear and intimidation, and is upset seeing the British do the same to the Irish.
In addition, there is a jewel their loose and they are asked to help find the thief.
The politics were sometimes confusing, hence the googling, but learning about the history was interesting nonetheless. The book ends on a cliffhanger, and now we must wait, though there is a scene from the next book that gave me chills.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. This is my honest review.

[Sophia]

Last we saw of Verity and Sydney in The Cold Light of Day, they were on the hunt for the stolen canisters of lethal phosgene gas a sinister spy out to harm the British government has sent to Ireland. With a missing British agent who was after the gas, a volatile situation on the streets of Dublin and elsewhere in Ireland between occupying English troops and Irish nationalists, Verity and Sydney are surrounded on all sides by danger. A Moment’s Shadow picks up where that left off.

My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd forgotten how fabulous this mystery series is and book 8 certainly reminded me and made me want to go back and reread the entire series. A gripping histfic tale filled with Irish intrigue post WWI!

[Cindy Ladensack · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok, the Ardmore plot line really needs to wrap up (the jewel theft subplot was a bit of an afterthought). And what is the motivation for this Ardmore dude to use a deadly nerve gas instead of tear gas anyway? And while I appreciate the extensive research on Irish history that must have gone into this book, my eyes glazed over at all the lists of skirmishes on seemingly every other page. And there were just far, far too many characters — particularly British aristocrats — to keep track of too. Also, I feel like if these people were really decent special agents — and since they have been obsessed with finding these phosgene cylinders for like five books now — they would have had a plan for what to do once they found them. And then, knowing when the climax was going to happen, they would have an escape plan all ready to go too. And I find it hard to believe that these are people in their early twenties too — that they would have the maturity for all of this.
TLDR: This series really needs an overhaul — the elements are good, but: the Ardmore plot needs to go; need to focus more on the relationships among Verity, Sidney, and Xavier; and the plots and character rosters need to be way tighter.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

August 1920, Dublin, A fraught task keeps Verity and her husband Sidney in the country after their initial clandestine mission has been the traitor Lord Ardmore is scheming to employ the deadly phosgene gas he’s stolen for some terrifying purpose, and the couple will need both the Crown forces and the rebels’ help to thwart him. As they pursue their quarry, they are drawn into a case involving a series of cunning and brazen jewel thefts.
Another very well & very well researched book, I’d recommend reading the previous book as this book continues Verity & Sidney’s search for Lord Ardmore. It took me a little while to get into the book but then I was engrossed & the pages flew by. I love Verity & Sidney & always enjoy their investigations. This is quite a political book but I felt the author was very fair in dealing with both sides of the conflict. I look forward to more in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[OpenBookSociety.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://openbooksociety.com/article/a...

Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie

When Verity and Sidney Kent began the unsanctioned mission in Dublin, they had no idea it would be so challenging. Quite some time ago, several cylinders of deadly phosgene gas were stolen from the British military and shipped to Ireland. Used extensively by the Allies in the Great War, it was somewhere in Ireland where Irish rebels and British forces were battling over Northern Ireland, currently under British control. Both Verity and Sidney served Britain in the war, Verity in the Secret Service and Sidney in the military. In Dublin, thefts of valuable jewelry of their peers were escalating, and the city heard murders of rebels and reprisals for said murders almost nightly.

The Kents were still in contact, albeit secretly, with Verity’s friend and former fellow spy, Alec, despite his change of allegiance to the Irish rebels under Mick Collins. Alec changed alliances, but he did not change his long-time loyalty to Verity. The person believed to have stolen the phosgene cylinders was their common enemy, so Alec continued to help them locate it. Neither Alec nor Verity and Sidney want the phosgene used as a weapon against Britain or Ireland.

Verity had several friends in the local British government facilities who divulge updates to her when possible. Following her through Dublin has been fascinating! She may be young, but Verity’s brilliance, excellent training, and experiences during the war matured her beyond her years.

Favorites of the society pages, Verity was a socialite, and Sidney, a war hero. When they were seen together in certain settings, people knew they may not be attending dinner parties merely for socializing. It was their popularity among British officials and society, coupled with their ability to successfully suss out criminals, that led to their involvement with the Dublin police to discover who was behind the burglaries. Brazen thefts even occurred at events where they were guests! Many thought the Irish rebels were stealing the valuables to further their cause.

It was intriguing to watch Verity and Sidney ask clever, innocent questions, whether out alone or together. As their search for the missing phosgene progresses, the Kents learn more about the workings of their government that they cannot unlearn. They began to understand how Alec changed sides, but they were not prepared to give up their family, home, or home country. They walk a fine line; if they were seen with Alec, they could be considered traitors and face the death penalty. Yet, time was of the essence, as it appeared the phosgene would be used during a highly attended public event. Finally, their search paid off and they were almost certain where the cylinders were hidden.

I love how Verity and Sidney set a trap for the jewel thief! The local detective inspector they worked with was part of the trap, and the person who left one little clue earlier was arrested. Soon afterwards, they determined which public event they feared the phosgene would be used. Could they stop its use?

Verity, however, was arrested! This installment closes with a cliffhanger. May I suggest to readers that they should read the series in order, especially now, for the best appreciation by the reader?

Characters are designed very well; we continue to learn in-depth about Verity, primarily, and other characters as fitting their roles. We see how women and men were often assigned particular roles, and women seemed as limited in Britain and Ireland as in the United States.

I appreciate the novel’s history that tells just enough to send me to Google to learn and understand more about 1920 Ireland. My knowledge of this time period is limited, so it is exciting to see how events fit together. I was not aware that codes and ciphers were used in WWI, which I found interesting. Cliff hanger endings are definitely not my favorite way to end a book, but the search for the phosgene has continued through several episodes. I hope Verity will be quickly released! I highly recommend this novel and series, especially for those who appreciate Ireland and her history, and post WWI events.

[Carole Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dangers await as forces foment a revolution

In August of 1920 the tensions between the British authorities and the Irish Republican Army and its supporters are mounting. Against this backdrop Verity Kent, well-known British socialite and former Secret Service agent, and her husband Sidney, a decorated war hero, have just brought an unofficial investigation to a close. The mission which was the main reason for their stay in Ireland remains unresolved, however...canisters of poison gas have been smuggled into the country and are going to be used, though by which side is unclear. The man who is orchestrating whatever is planned is both extraordinarily careful not to leave behind tangible evidence of his involvement and well-connected enough that it will be hard to accuse him publicly without solid proof. Verity and Sidney are walking a delicate line, working both with those affiliated with the British Crown forces (even though they both have their reservations about how the British are conducting themselves) and with the IRA and its leader Michael Collins, with a former colleague of Verity's (who has unbeknownst to her bosses back in London switched his allegiances) as a prime contact, Drawn in by both sides to also look into a string of jewelry thefts amongst those in their social circle, the couple works to discover whether the thief is in fact connected with the IRA and is committing the crimes to raise needed cash, or whether someone is taking advantage of the unrest that exists to cover their tracks. Can they solve those crimes and also track down the poison gas shipment before a catastrophic event takes place that could ignite all-out war?
This is the eighth Verity Kent mystery, and the second finding its way to post-WWI Ireland. (Note: It can be read as a standalone, but having read at least some of the previous installments will deepen the reader's understanding of the characters' backstories and relationships with one another.) It is a blend of historical fiction and a mystery with two intersecting plots. Author Anna Lee Huber does an excellent job of portraying the charged atmosphere in Dublin during those times...the attitudes (often condescending) of the British aristocracy who control much of the land and the government and the Irish people who must contend with the two groups battling for control of the country. There are some clear villains, but neither side is completely evil nor totally pure...most characters are operating in a moral gray zone as they try to survive amidst the increasing agitation. Verity and Sidney's relationship continues to develop...she is clever and resourceful, not one to clutch her pearls and fade into the background, and Sidney respects her talents enough t0 (mostly) support her and work in tandem with her. For readers who enjoy stories that blend history, mystery and romance, including fans of Susan Elia MacNeal, Kate Quinn and Jacqueline Winspear, this is an enjoyable read in a series well worth the time to follow. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to this entertaining novel in exchange for my honest review.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me a little while to situate myself within A Moment's Shadow by Anna Lee Huber. There is a lot of place names, people and cloak and dagger situations that my mind had to grasp. I've been in Dublin a few times, but I wished for a map that covered all the places. The British hang out at The Castle, I looked at that online and wished I'd known to visit it. Other places like Powerscourt I can vouch for has an amazing garden.

That said after the first third of the book I was in with what was going on. It all takes place during the struggle of the Irish to gain their independency from the British and it comes to a head just after World War 1. Verity and Sidney are in Dublin tracking down the very dangerous phosgene gas which could kill large numbers of people. Ardmore - the major anti hero is the instigator and a nasty piece of goods. The British do not come out well in this time of Irish history and as we know they didn't prevail. The Irish are persistent and courageous. 

Verity and Sidney are asked to sort out a jewel thief who has been active in Dublin. It's a side focus from what they are about. All the while though they are tracking down the phosgene. They meet up again with Alec, Verity's worked with him before during the war. He has now changed sides and works for Michael Collins and the IRA. While Verity and Sidney are "neutral" really they are pushed more and more onto the Irish side.

I ended up totally into the book, reading on to find out more. Would they find the phosgene in time? Find the jewel thief? Get away safely? The answers came, some not as I would like. Verity was a strong heroine and Sidney right there with her. 

This is a series so I wouldn't start in with this book. It has mentions of things that happened way back in the war where Verity was operating as a secret agent. However I do recommend this series to those who love mystery and bravery. History buffs therefore may enjoy this book. The last couple of books has given insight into the struggle for independence from the Irish. Having more Irish than English genetic mix I am proud of the Irish but sad for what they went through. 

[boogleloo · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 stars: This is the eight entry in Huber's Verity Kent Mystery series which is a Historical Mystery set in 1920 Ireland featuring a former British Secret Service agent and her husband will have to work with both the Crown Forces and the Irish rebels to stop a traitor from using a deadly gas at a crowded event, one that the entire world will be attuned to, and also catch a brazen jewel thefts, who's using the political unrest as a cover for his crimes. With plenty of twists and turns, Huber has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects and weaves in plenty of clues and red herrings that will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Additionally, I really appreciate how Huber's over-arcing series plot continues to unfold. I love seeing Verity and Sidney continue to lock horns with the villainous, Lord Ardmore, and can't wait to see them finally take him down. Smart and witty, Huber's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded, uniquely voiced and complex while remaining likable. Verity's a strong, determined and cunning woman and it's great to catch up with her, her husband, Sidney, and their eclectic group of friends and colleagues. Huber's historical research is as always top notch. I found the “inside” look into the IRA's Michael Collins and Ireland's fight for independence incredibly interesting. And can I just say what an ending... can't wait to read the next! Huber touches on some sensitive topics; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, This Side of Murder.

I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and ARC provided by Kensington Publishing | Kensington in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three and a half stars.

Verity and Sidney are still pursuing the stolen phosgene cylinders that Lord Ardmore had stolen three years ago. They are also still in Dublin as hostilities between the Black and Tans and the IRA continue to escalate with murders, beatings, and retaliations.

Verity and Sidney are in a precarious situation, she is working unofficially for the secret service, whilst concealing the fact that their friend Alec Xavier has gone to work for Michael Collins. Ardmore and his minions are everywhere and could easily spot them together and have her arrested (or worse).

At one of the parties they attend they discover that there has been a series of jewellery robberies, which the victims are refusing to report to the police because their insurance companies believe they have a chance of recovering the jewellery themselves. The establishment ask Verity and Sidney to investigate the robberies. convinced the IRA are using the jewellery to fund their rebellion, although Verity isn't so sure.

Whilst I didn't feel like this was a a lot of historical research being regurgitated (as I complained about for the last book) this did feel very history-heavy, totally overshadowing the jewellery thefts.

TBH Lord Ardmore has been Verity's sworn adversary for so long I've totally forgotten why he stole the phosgene in the first place and what is motivation is.

I know I say this every time I review one of these books, but I think this may be the last for me - what I loved was the little historical details not the big picture political stuff and that seems to have been overwhelmed in the most recent books. However, if you are looking for an easy-to-read explanation of the events as they unfolded then this could be a good place to start.

Also, I was surprised (because her use of British English is usually very good) to see Verity frequently referring to 'circling the block', or being a 'few blocks' away from something.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Verity Kent Mysteries #8
Publication Date: 8/26/25
Period: Post World War I – Ireland (1920)
Number of Pages: 368

A Gripping, Emotionally Charged Historical Mystery

This intense, nail-biting, heart-wrenching story has everything it needs to hold your attention and keep you turning the pages. The author masterfully evokes the fear, tension, and emotional complexity of a turbulent, war-torn time. I’m always cautious about how writers handle stories set during politically sensitive eras, but Ms. Huber treats both the British and the IRA with fairness and nuance.

Verity and Sidney remain in Dublin, racing against time to locate the deadly phosgene gas cylinders before the arch-villain Lord Ardmore unleashes devastation. They don’t know whether he intends to use it against the Irish or the English—only that the danger is imminent and widespread. With Lord Ardmore’s influence reaching deep into the police and government, Verity and Sidney are on their own, navigating a minefield of danger, betrayal, and uncertainty. Will they find the gas in time? Will they bring Ardmore down—or walk into a deadly trap?

The story grips you from the very first page and doesn’t let go—not even after the cliffhanger of all cliffhangers at the end. Days later, I’m still thinking about the suspense and emotional stakes. I especially love Alec, whose divided loyalties add another compelling layer to the narrative, and I’m hopeful for a positive turn in his arc as the series continues. Sidney and Verity are facing greater danger than ever, and the uncertainty of their fate makes this a truly unforgettable read.

If you love a well-paced, immersive mystery with rich historical detail and morally complex characters, this book is for you. A thoroughly excellent tale!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna Lee Huber’s Verity Kent novels have continuously exhibited the best literature offers readers, and her latest, A Moment’s Shadow, is no exception. Her mysteries are suspenseful and gripping; her characters layered, detailed, and engaging; and her historical research and attention to detail commendable, yes. But what continues to draw me to Huber’s Verity Kent series is her refusal to allow the reader a comfortable seat of righteousness from which to draw clear lines of right and wrong in a very troubled historical period. From the moment we meet Verity, she grapples, and with her, British society, with what it means to survive a cataclysmic world event. What it means to forgive others, much less yourself. How to do the next right thing when every moment, the “right” thing becomes less clear.

In A Moment’s Shadow, set in an Ireland desperately seeking freedom from British rule, I didn’t have a dog in the fight as an American in 2025. What Huber does with great dexterity, however, is write characters with whom I relate and empathize. Suddenly I want them very much to succeed in their aims—the problem is, for me as the reader, these characters are on both sides of the conflict or, like Verity and Sidney, caught in the middle. It is clear Huber’s point is that the human tendency to draw thick black lines between the sides and decide which is good and which evil is in our nature but is not reality.

Where she is quite clear is that no one wins with violence. Many lose their lives, particularly the innocent, all lose their humanity, and none of the cost is worth the pitiful so-called “gains.” In all the ways only the best literature can, this lesson drawn from a fictional story set in a very real past tells us an awful lot about our present.

[Kathy Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is August 1920 and Verity and her husband Sidney are still in Dublin hunting down a missing shipment of phosgene. They know Lord Ardmore stole it and they know he must have some sort of nefarious plan. However, they don't know what the plan is or where the gas is now.

This is a very political novel. Keeping track of the various factions who are working for Ireland's future is a complex task both for Verity and Sidney and this reader. Verity's friend Alex whom they were originally sent to Ireland to locate has switched to the Irish side rather than the British which Verity and Sidney have neglected to inform Verity's British bosses about.

Verity herself is very conflicted about the whole war going on. She's seeing behaviors that remind her way too much of the way the Germans behaved in occupied Belgium. She also doesn't hold a very high opinion of the official British Intelligence in Ireland.

Just to make things more complicated, there is also a jewel thief removing valuable jewelry from the British upper classes in Ireland. They are tasked with locating the thief which gives them a reason to stay in Ireland after Verity's boss C demands that they come back to England.

Despite the overabundance of politics, this was an entertaining story. I sympathized with Verity as her loyalties are tested. My only complaint about the story was the cliffhanger ending which will leave readers distressed until the next story in 2026.

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! That was unexpected!
In this between-the-wars series, Verity and Sydney Kent are in Ireland as the clash between the ruling British and the Irish (who were promised independence if they fought in WW1) is heating up. In the previous book, In the Cold Light of Day, the Kents were sent to find Verity's fellow agent, Alec Xavier. They found him, but he had decided to ally with the Irish and fake his death. He convinced them to go along with his plan.
Also, they are all looking for the poison gas cylinders stolen from the military and sent to Ireland by the evil and powerful, Lord Arden. Then there is the brazen series of jewel robberies that they are asked to look into. They are met with dead ends and scary situations as they sneak around Dublin and evade the curfew and roadblocks.
The thief is unmasked by a trap at the Kents's house. The gas is found and lost again. It all comes down to a shattering conclusion that could change all their lives forever.
I have enjoyed this series from the beginning. Verity is a great "strong woman" character. Her job as a spy behind enemy lines during the war and Sydney's work after the war finding the traitor who betrayed him make a great background for these books.
The story arc with Lord Arden as the monster in plain sight makes for a wonderful, if heart-pounding, battle of wits.
The friends and allies of the Kents are well-rounded as real people, not just characters to move the plot along.
Highly recommend!