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A Lady's Handbook of Espionage
He is Her Majesty's most lethal weapon.
Ronan Callahan shed his criminal past to rise through the ranks as the Crown's deadliest spy. But for years, he's always been a step behind the elusive thief known as Spectre, cunning woman who has led him on a cat-and-mouse chase across the globe.
She is the underworld's most wanted mastermind.
Isabel Dumont clawed her way from the gutters of Paris to become the Syndicate's most skilled operative. But when she betrays the very criminal empire that forged her, she's forced to ally with the spy she once outwitted.
Thrust into an uneasy partnership, these rival operatives plunge into an undercover mission to dismantle the Syndicate. As bodies pile up and the passion ignites, they navigate a world where loyalty is a death sentence and trust is a fatal weakness-and the price of failure is paid in blood.
Ronan Callahan shed his criminal past to rise through the ranks as the Crown's deadliest spy. But for years, he's always been a step behind the elusive thief known as Spectre, cunning woman who has led him on a cat-and-mouse chase across the globe.
She is the underworld's most wanted mastermind.
Isabel Dumont clawed her way from the gutters of Paris to become the Syndicate's most skilled operative. But when she betrays the very criminal empire that forged her, she's forced to ally with the spy she once outwitted.
Thrust into an uneasy partnership, these rival operatives plunge into an undercover mission to dismantle the Syndicate. As bodies pile up and the passion ignites, they navigate a world where loyalty is a death sentence and trust is a fatal weakness-and the price of failure is paid in blood.
352 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2025
19 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Katrina Kendrick
7 books160 followersKatrina Kendrick is the romance pen name for fantasy author Elizabeth May.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 4, 2025
Happy Publication Day!
This was over the top in a James-Bondy kinda way. And pretending to be Victorian.
It was entertaining, but I didn’t love it. The characters were overdone, the banter was too intense, everything felt like too much.
Like a book written in all caps. In fluorescent yellow.
Isabel and Ronan keep bumping into each other in cloak-and-dagger extravaganza style: street chases, fraud attempts, near-death experiences — that sort of thing. They’re wildly attracted to each other but also emotionally unavailable and doing their best to resist said attraction. Mostly. When they give in, it’s all emotional explosions, fireworks — occasionally handcuffs or knives. The doors wide open, obvs.
I liked the parts where they finally started getting honest and vulnerable with each other. Luckily, there were more of those in the second half. I’m not sure if the second half was more measured, or if I just got used to that loud writing style, but I enjoyed it more.
My head is still spinning from this book. There are some side characters who have their own books (because of course this is part of a series, and neither NetGalley nor Goodreads will tell you that), but it looks like all the stories run parallel to this one — which is a very overwhelming concept.
As if I weren’t overwhelmed enough.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
——
Thanks to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the arc.
This was over the top in a James-Bondy kinda way. And pretending to be Victorian.
It was entertaining, but I didn’t love it. The characters were overdone, the banter was too intense, everything felt like too much.
Like a book written in all caps. In fluorescent yellow.
Isabel and Ronan keep bumping into each other in cloak-and-dagger extravaganza style: street chases, fraud attempts, near-death experiences — that sort of thing. They’re wildly attracted to each other but also emotionally unavailable and doing their best to resist said attraction. Mostly. When they give in, it’s all emotional explosions, fireworks — occasionally handcuffs or knives. The doors wide open, obvs.
I liked the parts where they finally started getting honest and vulnerable with each other. Luckily, there were more of those in the second half. I’m not sure if the second half was more measured, or if I just got used to that loud writing style, but I enjoyed it more.
My head is still spinning from this book. There are some side characters who have their own books (because of course this is part of a series, and neither NetGalley nor Goodreads will tell you that), but it looks like all the stories run parallel to this one — which is a very overwhelming concept.
As if I weren’t overwhelmed enough.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
——
Thanks to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the arc.
Want to read
April 3, 2025i heard “strangles a man to death with her thighs” and smashed that want to read button
September 10, 2025
Do not let this over fool you, this is not some lighthearted historical romance. It is gritty and violent and dark and I loved it!
September 12, 2025
Imagine a Victorian-era twist on Mr. and Mrs. Smith and you’ll get the feel of this book. It’s entertaining, fun, and stronger than the author’s last release. Though at times the tone leans a bit too modern, and the brief epilogue was disappointing, especially since this seems to be the author’s last historical romance for now. Still, it’s an enjoyable read and a solid send-off.
September 8, 2025
I can still say Katrina Kendrick is a new author for me because this is only my 6th book by her. I started reading her in 2020. I had made notes on her that I loved her writing and her stories were great and sex was well written.
WOW what can I say about this book. So some of you know from my reviews, I don't read book descriptions anymore so have no idea what I'm about to read. I like to be totally surprised. Well, "surprise" is an understatement. I was expecting one of my usual "ton" reads with a little spying and espionage thrown in. NOPE!!!
It was very dark. I feel like all the super steamy historical romances I read now feel like a Hallmark movie compared to this. It reminded me of my daughters dark romances that she reads where the guy will cut out the tongue of the ex-boyfriend of his girlfriend just because he knew the taste of her. YES, it's that similar kind of dark. I have to say I didn't hate it and was rather intrigued by the whole story. I loved Isabel and Ronan in a strange fascinated way. They were so different than most books I read. A bit frightening by what they were capable of and more so when they were together. Very different for sure but I really did like it. Come to think of it, it reminded me of 1800's version of Mr. & Mrs. Smith. If you want something different than your usual HR, then I would definitely recommend. I actually couldn't stop thinking about his book so came back to tell you I am adding to my favorite books read list for Sept, 2025.
WOW what can I say about this book. So some of you know from my reviews, I don't read book descriptions anymore so have no idea what I'm about to read. I like to be totally surprised. Well, "surprise" is an understatement. I was expecting one of my usual "ton" reads with a little spying and espionage thrown in. NOPE!!!
It was very dark. I feel like all the super steamy historical romances I read now feel like a Hallmark movie compared to this. It reminded me of my daughters dark romances that she reads where the guy will cut out the tongue of the ex-boyfriend of his girlfriend just because he knew the taste of her. YES, it's that similar kind of dark. I have to say I didn't hate it and was rather intrigued by the whole story. I loved Isabel and Ronan in a strange fascinated way. They were so different than most books I read. A bit frightening by what they were capable of and more so when they were together. Very different for sure but I really did like it. Come to think of it, it reminded me of 1800's version of Mr. & Mrs. Smith. If you want something different than your usual HR, then I would definitely recommend. I actually couldn't stop thinking about his book so came back to tell you I am adding to my favorite books read list for Sept, 2025.
July 23, 2025
[RATE: 1.5/5]
|| Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for providing me this arc in exchange for an honest review ! ||
Ooooh boy.
Let me start by saying that the premise of this book is genuinely appealing. I enjoyed following Ronan and Isabel’s journey, the way they danced around each other, and especially how their past and PTSD (please check the trigger warnings!) shaped them. It was touching to see how, especially Isabel, gradually learns to love and trust physical intimacy. While the plot doesn’t offer many twists, the development of their relationship was well done. There is maybe a bit (waaay) too much smut for my taste…
However, this book is filled with anachronisms - to the point where it became a bit of a game to spot them. I can understand the choice of a simpler, more modern writing style even in historical romance, but here, the amount of expressions, vocabulary, and phrasing that just didn’t exist at the time (both in English and in the French used by Isabel) is hard to ignore. The historical setting is limited to the surface: the balls, the dresses, the aristocracy… but otherwise, it felt very much like a modern, smutty romance dressed up in historical costume.
Ooooh boy.
Let me start by saying that the premise of this book is genuinely appealing. I enjoyed following Ronan and Isabel’s journey, the way they danced around each other, and especially how their past and PTSD (please check the trigger warnings!) shaped them. It was touching to see how, especially Isabel, gradually learns to love and trust physical intimacy. While the plot doesn’t offer many twists, the development of their relationship was well done. There is maybe a bit (waaay) too much smut for my taste…
However, this book is filled with anachronisms - to the point where it became a bit of a game to spot them. I can understand the choice of a simpler, more modern writing style even in historical romance, but here, the amount of expressions, vocabulary, and phrasing that just didn’t exist at the time (both in English and in the French used by Isabel) is hard to ignore. The historical setting is limited to the surface: the balls, the dresses, the aristocracy… but otherwise, it felt very much like a modern, smutty romance dressed up in historical costume.
September 4, 2025
First off, thank you Netgalley and Katrina Kendrick for this arc!
This was such a special book! The plot was unlike all the others I've read! Loved everyones personalities, the FMC was so badass and the MMC? Yes please. I did put this book off for a bit and quickly read all of it in a day after realising its archive date was sep 04 (which i think is when it gets unreleased? not very sure)
The pacing worked pretty well for me, it did slow down a bit around the 20% mark for me but then hit right off again around 30% so really didn't matter. But it did move a bit too fast for me around the 10% mark for me, gave me a bit of whiplash.
Did not really like the very fast burn of their relationship, I will never understand how someone starts to develop feelings so fast but that could just be me.
The banter felt a bit forced sometimes and the language didn't exactly fit the scene but I could push past that.
Overall, 4 stars! a really great book and I would definitely check out some of her other ones!
This was such a special book! The plot was unlike all the others I've read! Loved everyones personalities, the FMC was so badass and the MMC? Yes please. I did put this book off for a bit and quickly read all of it in a day after realising its archive date was sep 04 (which i think is when it gets unreleased? not very sure)
The pacing worked pretty well for me, it did slow down a bit around the 20% mark for me but then hit right off again around 30% so really didn't matter. But it did move a bit too fast for me around the 10% mark for me, gave me a bit of whiplash.
Did not really like the very fast burn of their relationship, I will never understand how someone starts to develop feelings so fast but that could just be me.
The banter felt a bit forced sometimes and the language didn't exactly fit the scene but I could push past that.
Overall, 4 stars! a really great book and I would definitely check out some of her other ones!
July 1, 2025
"A Lady's Handbook of Espionage" centres around spies Ronan and Isabel- one works for the crown and the other is a mercenary. Their paths cross frequently until fully converging, leading to them working together.
This book was grand. I'm not a big fan of instant love or miscommunication, both of which I would say feature quite heavily here. I found a lot of the moments between the main characters to be repetitive.
I want to acknowledge that I haven't read the other books in this series so may be on the back foot and not as emotionally invested as I should be. Katrina Kendrick does do a great job of catching up a less seasoned reader of her work, without bogging down the central story.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was grand. I'm not a big fan of instant love or miscommunication, both of which I would say feature quite heavily here. I found a lot of the moments between the main characters to be repetitive.
I want to acknowledge that I haven't read the other books in this series so may be on the back foot and not as emotionally invested as I should be. Katrina Kendrick does do a great job of catching up a less seasoned reader of her work, without bogging down the central story.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read
November 12, 2025I am generally not a fan of these cartoon covers, but in this case specifically the cutesy shit is so jarring compared to the content of the book. The book is great, but that cover 👀
August 19, 2025
This is a fast-paced, heart-thumping end to a great series - and while you don’t absolutely have to read the previous instalments, you’ll get more from this if you at least read A Touch Wicked, which introduces Isabel and Ronan as side characters and contains some of the same events from a different perspective. The opening scenes are like something from a spy movie, with exotic locations and costumes and hidden agendas; yes, you have to suspend your disbelief, but it’s worth it to explore the developing relationship between two people who have dragged themselves out of horrendous circumstances and been left with both physical and mental scars. Outside the action and danger, this is a tale full of sharp banter interspersed with a dark, raw and surprisingly tender romance; I was rooting for Ronan and Isabel throughout and thoroughly satisfied with the conclusion to both book and series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
September 8, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.
Warning, despite this bright, cheerful, perky cover this story contains some quite graphic scenarios of violence, abuse, and power dynamics, and implied sexual abuse/dynamics that some may find very disturbing. This is quite a bit darker than I expected, and I found myself having to stop and take a break a few times from the story.
But on saying that, this is a gripping thriller and historical romantic suspense story with dynamic characters with a great deal of charisma, and heartbreaking background stories.
Ronan Callahan is an Irishman, orphaned at a young age and forced to survive in whatever ways he could on the streets in ways that left him scarred inside and out. Now he works for the Crown as a deadly spy and his target is the elusive, yet notorious Spectre, whom he has been chasing throughout the Continent and beyond. He thinks he knows her, having tracked her various aliases and connections, and wants to confront her and gain more knowledge of her connections with the Syndicate
Isabel Dumont, after her family was kicked to the streets by her aristocratic father, and losing her mother, was taken under the wing of a criminal mastermind, and taught to become a master thief and spy. But quickly learns that she is in reality trapped as his favourite pet and toy, in turns pampered, but quickly punished for any perceived lack of loyalty or obedience. She too is deeply scarred, but willingly plays his game to protect her beloved sister, the only family she cares for that remains.
Ronan and Isabel play an intense game of cat and mouse as he chases her that at times becomes explosive - except things come to a head when Isabel crushes Ronan in a humiliating manner in Hong Kong. He returns to London in disgrace and licks his wounds in a drunken stupor until he is blackmailed into helping an acquaintance to seek out a missing woman - who turns out to be his tempting nemesis, Isabel.
This starts a new and uneasy alliance between the two, as Isabel is brought into the folds of British espionage, as she seeks to escape the Syndicate, and protect her sister. Ronan and Isabel must work together on a mission, in the guise of a married couple.
Compelling writing with plenty of spicy heat, drama and angst. But again, there is a lot of darkness and graphic violence. Both the back stories of Ronan and Isabel are dark and tragic, but Isabel's trauma continues on the pages as she struggles to escape the man who made her the Spectre, and then she in turn seeks revenge.
Be warned - this is not a cuddly sweet historical romance. There is a lot of darkness and trauma. But it is dramatic, thrilling, and suspenseful with charismatic characters that spark together with incendiary heat.
4.75 stars out of 5
Warning, despite this bright, cheerful, perky cover this story contains some quite graphic scenarios of violence, abuse, and power dynamics, and implied sexual abuse/dynamics that some may find very disturbing. This is quite a bit darker than I expected, and I found myself having to stop and take a break a few times from the story.
But on saying that, this is a gripping thriller and historical romantic suspense story with dynamic characters with a great deal of charisma, and heartbreaking background stories.
Ronan Callahan is an Irishman, orphaned at a young age and forced to survive in whatever ways he could on the streets in ways that left him scarred inside and out. Now he works for the Crown as a deadly spy and his target is the elusive, yet notorious Spectre, whom he has been chasing throughout the Continent and beyond. He thinks he knows her, having tracked her various aliases and connections, and wants to confront her and gain more knowledge of her connections with the Syndicate
Isabel Dumont, after her family was kicked to the streets by her aristocratic father, and losing her mother, was taken under the wing of a criminal mastermind, and taught to become a master thief and spy. But quickly learns that she is in reality trapped as his favourite pet and toy, in turns pampered, but quickly punished for any perceived lack of loyalty or obedience. She too is deeply scarred, but willingly plays his game to protect her beloved sister, the only family she cares for that remains.
Ronan and Isabel play an intense game of cat and mouse as he chases her that at times becomes explosive - except things come to a head when Isabel crushes Ronan in a humiliating manner in Hong Kong. He returns to London in disgrace and licks his wounds in a drunken stupor until he is blackmailed into helping an acquaintance to seek out a missing woman - who turns out to be his tempting nemesis, Isabel.
This starts a new and uneasy alliance between the two, as Isabel is brought into the folds of British espionage, as she seeks to escape the Syndicate, and protect her sister. Ronan and Isabel must work together on a mission, in the guise of a married couple.
Compelling writing with plenty of spicy heat, drama and angst. But again, there is a lot of darkness and graphic violence. Both the back stories of Ronan and Isabel are dark and tragic, but Isabel's trauma continues on the pages as she struggles to escape the man who made her the Spectre, and then she in turn seeks revenge.
Be warned - this is not a cuddly sweet historical romance. There is a lot of darkness and trauma. But it is dramatic, thrilling, and suspenseful with charismatic characters that spark together with incendiary heat.
4.75 stars out of 5
September 3, 2025
The idea of this book is great - a lady thief being chased by a gentleman spy? Be still my heart. I would still read a book with that premise, even after this, but I wasn't expecting what I got.
I did like the bonds of family that are described here, there are a number of siblings - some blood, some not - and the loyalty they show each other, the love as they fight for each other was just wonderful to behold. I also liked how we had some good and some bad members of nobility - too often these stories will have a whole class behave in one way only, but we have a full range of characters on show here.
Isabel just... don't get me wrong, I love a powerful women, but she's a modern women who has been pushed into a setting and not only does she act completely alien to the time, but nobody seems at all surprised by her behaviour. Not even a one line about women not behaving this way? I just honestly don't understand why this is set in Regency times. It doesn't feel at all as if the setting suits the story, and none of the characters are believable as being from that time. It's just... set dressing, an excuse for a ball or two, although we don't linger there.
I don't even want to talk about the smut, I liked at first how they explored her trauma but then she's 'healed' by dirty sex because its him? No thank you.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
I did like the bonds of family that are described here, there are a number of siblings - some blood, some not - and the loyalty they show each other, the love as they fight for each other was just wonderful to behold. I also liked how we had some good and some bad members of nobility - too often these stories will have a whole class behave in one way only, but we have a full range of characters on show here.
Isabel just... don't get me wrong, I love a powerful women, but she's a modern women who has been pushed into a setting and not only does she act completely alien to the time, but nobody seems at all surprised by her behaviour. Not even a one line about women not behaving this way? I just honestly don't understand why this is set in Regency times. It doesn't feel at all as if the setting suits the story, and none of the characters are believable as being from that time. It's just... set dressing, an excuse for a ball or two, although we don't linger there.
I don't even want to talk about the smut, I liked at first how they explored her trauma but then she's 'healed' by dirty sex because its him? No thank you.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
June 28, 2025
Many thanks to Aria and NetGalley for the preview. All opinions are my own.
I am devasted if this is really the last Katrina Kendrick book in this world. But damn, are we going out with fireworks! Seriously the flames errupt between Ronan and Isabel from the first chapter, and we get hot and heavy fast. But at the same time, it's actually over the course of over 2 years. This book spans the whole timeframe of the series in fact, and we get lots of cameos of previous characters (which was amazing).
This is probably the darkest, most raw, hottest, and most devastating book yet. Isabel has been so terribly abused before, and she has the literal scars to prove it. And we move from the cat and mouse game across continents to a forced proximity fake marriage to catch a dangerous man. The tension, the yearning, the FLAMES, and the banter are all exquisite. Tender moments mixed with punishing intimacy had me both fanning myself and wiping away tears.
These books have been utterly un-put-down-able. I think this one in particular would appeal to fans of Written on Your Skin by Meredith Duran. I'm seriously sad about not having more of these to look forward to, but I will always recommend this series and literally anything Elizabeth May ever writes.
I am devasted if this is really the last Katrina Kendrick book in this world. But damn, are we going out with fireworks! Seriously the flames errupt between Ronan and Isabel from the first chapter, and we get hot and heavy fast. But at the same time, it's actually over the course of over 2 years. This book spans the whole timeframe of the series in fact, and we get lots of cameos of previous characters (which was amazing).
This is probably the darkest, most raw, hottest, and most devastating book yet. Isabel has been so terribly abused before, and she has the literal scars to prove it. And we move from the cat and mouse game across continents to a forced proximity fake marriage to catch a dangerous man. The tension, the yearning, the FLAMES, and the banter are all exquisite. Tender moments mixed with punishing intimacy had me both fanning myself and wiping away tears.
These books have been utterly un-put-down-able. I think this one in particular would appeal to fans of Written on Your Skin by Meredith Duran. I'm seriously sad about not having more of these to look forward to, but I will always recommend this series and literally anything Elizabeth May ever writes.
August 16, 2025
I had read one of the other books in the series and was happy to swipe into this one. Glad that I did. Really liked the beginning confrontations between our main characters. Katrina Kendrick doesn’t pull her punches through the rest of the book, in this very adult, dark, romance in an S&M way, that shows the scars, but lots of humour and banter to soften the blows (no pun intended, well maybe a little bit). We can hope for an happy ending. Isabel Dumont fell into the wrong hands early in life. Hands that marked her, abused her, scarred her physically and mentally. Hands that trained her to thieve and kill when necessary. Now running she meets Roman Callahan, probably fortuitously though she really doesn’t think so at the time. Then again if things were different she could really like this man. The books are all stand alone, as far as I know. So if you haven’t read any of the series your reading time for a little while is organised. Thank you to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
September 1, 2025
I was hooked from start with its beautifully layered characters, compelling plot and well-paced story. It was both action packed spy vs thief fun with fantastic banter and blistering chemistry, and a beautiful and tender romance featuring two physically and emotionally scarred characters.
I loved Ronan and Isabel and the way they can turn each other on (oh boy those spicy scenes were top notch), but their trauma also means they unknowingly rub each other's tender spots in the process of protecting their heart. They both recognise and admire the other's grit and determination to crawl out from cruel and impoverished circumstances, which Kendrick doesn’t shy away from. Both have been experienced sexual and physical violence while trying to survive, with Isobel still struggling to take control after years of coercion and control. Some of the most heartbreaking scenes were seeing independent Isobel reduced to a mess when Favreau finds her.
I couldn't put this book down. I would really love a series featuring Isobel and Ronan on missions together.
Thanks to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the ARC.
I loved Ronan and Isabel and the way they can turn each other on (oh boy those spicy scenes were top notch), but their trauma also means they unknowingly rub each other's tender spots in the process of protecting their heart. They both recognise and admire the other's grit and determination to crawl out from cruel and impoverished circumstances, which Kendrick doesn’t shy away from. Both have been experienced sexual and physical violence while trying to survive, with Isobel still struggling to take control after years of coercion and control. Some of the most heartbreaking scenes were seeing independent Isobel reduced to a mess when Favreau finds her.
I couldn't put this book down. I would really love a series featuring Isobel and Ronan on missions together.
Thanks to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the ARC.
September 9, 2025
Ronan is the Crown’s most ruthless spy, but he’s always been just a step behind Isabel, the elusive thief known as Spectre. Isabel is clever, dangerous, and also a lot of fun. When the two of them are forced into an uneasy partnership to take down the Syndicate, the tension is off the charts. What follows is a globe-spanning adventure brimming with covert missions, shifting allegiances, and the constant shadow of betrayal. The mistrust, the banter, and the chemistry make for a cat-and-mouse dynamic that was very entertaining.
Isabel is a particularly compelling heroine, as she is resourceful, sharp, and unapologetically dangerous, yet vulnerable in the choices she must make. Ronan, with his relentless pursuit of both justice and redemption, was the perfect match for Isabel. The writing manages to balance action and atmosphere beautifully and drew me into the dramatics. A great read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Isabel is a particularly compelling heroine, as she is resourceful, sharp, and unapologetically dangerous, yet vulnerable in the choices she must make. Ronan, with his relentless pursuit of both justice and redemption, was the perfect match for Isabel. The writing manages to balance action and atmosphere beautifully and drew me into the dramatics. A great read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 13, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up.
This book has surprised me. I thought it would be a nice gentle tale of Victorian lady spies, but instead it turns out this it’s a page turning, violent tale of murder with a massive side order of spice. Most unexpected.
Still, Isobel Dumont is in the pay of a nasty man called Favreau, travelling the world stealing and running cons. She keeps bumping into Home Office spy, Ronan, wherever she goes and they have real chemistry. After a bit of a disaster in Egypt, Isobel joins Ronan in the spying business and they work to uncover a plot involving the development of chemical weapons. Whilst also being unable to keep their hands off each other.
I worry that someone will pick this up for the cover and have a bit of a shock when they get to the sex scenes. Otherwise, this is a pacy, thrilling tale with a feisty female protagonist and an equally exciting partner.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
This book has surprised me. I thought it would be a nice gentle tale of Victorian lady spies, but instead it turns out this it’s a page turning, violent tale of murder with a massive side order of spice. Most unexpected.
Still, Isobel Dumont is in the pay of a nasty man called Favreau, travelling the world stealing and running cons. She keeps bumping into Home Office spy, Ronan, wherever she goes and they have real chemistry. After a bit of a disaster in Egypt, Isobel joins Ronan in the spying business and they work to uncover a plot involving the development of chemical weapons. Whilst also being unable to keep their hands off each other.
I worry that someone will pick this up for the cover and have a bit of a shock when they get to the sex scenes. Otherwise, this is a pacy, thrilling tale with a feisty female protagonist and an equally exciting partner.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
October 12, 2025
The Lady’s Handbook of Espionage presents two parallel story lines, however it is tricky to work out exactly what they are. One seems to trace the redemption of Isabel Dumont, international thief and woman of mystery and the other on Ronan Gallagher’s pursuit of the mysterious Spectre. The lines are like railway tracks, they run together crossing occasionally. Whilst the story line is interesting seemingly with and the writing is of a high standard, for me there were issues with the language, the crudity and the underlying cruelty of the story, in particular that relating to Isaobel’s background and lifestyle. The author does provide a warning that the content might be disturbing, but as this is set in the Victorian era I did not expect the levels of foul language and implied violence. I would recommend the novel to anyone who is able to accept such, but overall this was not the book for me. ⅖
Thank you to netgalley for the chance to read this eARC
October 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free ARC in exchange for a review!
This is the next installment in the Private Arrangements series I have previously enjoyed, and honestly this one is rivaling Tempting a Scoundrel for best overall!
I LOVED the premise of Ronan and Isabel's story - it gave such Sherlock Holmes and Irene Adler vibes (but like waaaaay more romance-y). I also loved the integration of the other couples we already know, especially Nick and Alex.
The entire book is just a sexy rollicking good time, with enough plot to support Ronan and Isabel's love story. Honestly, I have very little to say because it's just so fun. It's literally like someone found my obsession with A Scandal in Bohemia and wrote me personally a romance novel.
If you like historical romances, cat-and-mouse relationships, heists and intrigue, complex romantic characters, or just a really excellent time, you HAVE to pick this one up. You will not regret it!! Five stars!
This is the next installment in the Private Arrangements series I have previously enjoyed, and honestly this one is rivaling Tempting a Scoundrel for best overall!
I LOVED the premise of Ronan and Isabel's story - it gave such Sherlock Holmes and Irene Adler vibes (but like waaaaay more romance-y). I also loved the integration of the other couples we already know, especially Nick and Alex.
The entire book is just a sexy rollicking good time, with enough plot to support Ronan and Isabel's love story. Honestly, I have very little to say because it's just so fun. It's literally like someone found my obsession with A Scandal in Bohemia and wrote me personally a romance novel.
If you like historical romances, cat-and-mouse relationships, heists and intrigue, complex romantic characters, or just a really excellent time, you HAVE to pick this one up. You will not regret it!! Five stars!
July 17, 2025
5 stars
Great book, quite dark in places. Isabel is the sister of an earlier heroine from the series, Emma, book 0.5. Isabel was inviegled into the world of crime by a handsome villain. There are some amusing scenes with the hero, who is a bit James Bond ish, in that he's working for the government as a spy. There a quite a few encounters over a few years until Emma seeks to find Isabel.
Isabel is a thief with murderous skills which she uses to her advantage. There is some aspects which I think almost needs a warning of self harm but generally I loved this book and this series. Lots of passionate encounters. I'm sad to see it ending....what about the spymaster general did I miss his book?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Great book, quite dark in places. Isabel is the sister of an earlier heroine from the series, Emma, book 0.5. Isabel was inviegled into the world of crime by a handsome villain. There are some amusing scenes with the hero, who is a bit James Bond ish, in that he's working for the government as a spy. There a quite a few encounters over a few years until Emma seeks to find Isabel.
Isabel is a thief with murderous skills which she uses to her advantage. There is some aspects which I think almost needs a warning of self harm but generally I loved this book and this series. Lots of passionate encounters. I'm sad to see it ending....what about the spymaster general did I miss his book?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2025
Abuse, theft and violent murder.
The title of this book sounds lighthearted but in places it is gritty and violently dark. The head of The Syndicate is a monster and Isabel has been caught in his web for years. Known as Spectre, Isabel is an accomplished thief and assassin, a wanted woman on three continents. Tracked by Ronan Callaghan, an agent of the Crown, with a murky past, she taunts and evades him. However her attempt to leave her abuser sees her fighting for her life and eventually she has no choice but to turn herself in and exchange The Syndicate’s secrets for protection. But Favreau has plans to get his pet back,can he be foiled?
This reads a bit like a James Bond story rather than a historical but I found it an absorbing read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The title of this book sounds lighthearted but in places it is gritty and violently dark. The head of The Syndicate is a monster and Isabel has been caught in his web for years. Known as Spectre, Isabel is an accomplished thief and assassin, a wanted woman on three continents. Tracked by Ronan Callaghan, an agent of the Crown, with a murky past, she taunts and evades him. However her attempt to leave her abuser sees her fighting for her life and eventually she has no choice but to turn herself in and exchange The Syndicate’s secrets for protection. But Favreau has plans to get his pet back,can he be foiled?
This reads a bit like a James Bond story rather than a historical but I found it an absorbing read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 26, 2025
4⭐ 3🌶️
This was a blast! It had all the plot points to keep me engaged and invested in both the characters and the outcomes of the book. Both the main characters had been through so much to get where they were. I would have liked a little more detail about the MMC's background. It was obviously traumatic, but I think more detail would have given more depth to the love between the two characters.
I also loved the inclusion of past characters from other books by the author, but there wasn't too much history that would impact this being your first Katrina Kendrick book. Mind you if this is your first Katrina Kendrick book, where have you been, and now you need to go and read the back catalogue!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Katrina Kendrick for a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
This was a blast! It had all the plot points to keep me engaged and invested in both the characters and the outcomes of the book. Both the main characters had been through so much to get where they were. I would have liked a little more detail about the MMC's background. It was obviously traumatic, but I think more detail would have given more depth to the love between the two characters.
I also loved the inclusion of past characters from other books by the author, but there wasn't too much history that would impact this being your first Katrina Kendrick book. Mind you if this is your first Katrina Kendrick book, where have you been, and now you need to go and read the back catalogue!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Katrina Kendrick for a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
August 18, 2025
There was an excellent start to this book setting out the love hate relationship between the two main characters. As it unfolded, it revealed that Isabel was in the thrall of a vicious gang leader and was doing her utmost to escape. Her male lead was caught between a duty to catch her as an international criminal and his desire for her. The book reaches a conclusion that has some violence but their relationship blooms despite this. There is plenty of gritty reality to the story but it rema8ns an absorbing satisfying read
September 3, 2025
⭐️Spoiler Free Review ⭐️
Thanks to @netgalley, the author & publishers for the ARC.
This was a dark and addictive book that I couldn't put down. It was fast-paced throughout & the FMC & MMC were intriguing and deeply troubled in their own way. There are trigger warnings associated with this book. There's lots of suspense and tension throughout and it isn't like your usual Regency-era book.
I've not read any of the author's previous books as I didn't realise this was part of a series, but you don't have to read them to follow, and I'll definitely give them a go.
Thanks to @netgalley, the author & publishers for the ARC.
This was a dark and addictive book that I couldn't put down. It was fast-paced throughout & the FMC & MMC were intriguing and deeply troubled in their own way. There are trigger warnings associated with this book. There's lots of suspense and tension throughout and it isn't like your usual Regency-era book.
I've not read any of the author's previous books as I didn't realise this was part of a series, but you don't have to read them to follow, and I'll definitely give them a go.
September 4, 2025
That was a fast-paced and action-packed read! From the very first chapter, the story throws you straight into the action and doesn’t let up until the very end. I’ll admit, at one point the relentless pacing felt a bit exhausting but also impressive in how the author managed to sustain such intensity throughout the book.
What really stood out to me was the witty banter between the main characters. The dialogue felt natural, engaging, and added a lot of charm to their dynamic. Overall, I definitely enjoyed the ride even if I now feel like I need to catch my breath!
What really stood out to me was the witty banter between the main characters. The dialogue felt natural, engaging, and added a lot of charm to their dynamic. Overall, I definitely enjoyed the ride even if I now feel like I need to catch my breath!
September 6, 2025
I appreciate the layers in this complex historical romance. The attraction between Isabel and Ronan is as fierce as they are. They have a passionate connection and an innate courage; it both attracts and repels them and delivers some spicy romantic encounters. Alongside the romance is a suspenseful and twisty mystery. The story also explores Isabel's early life and the abuse she suffered. It is challenging to read, but essential for the reader to know who she is. These complex layers make this a compelling story that is hard to put down.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
September 25, 2025
This was a fast read as it was extremely fast paced.
I had mixed feelings about A Lady’s Handbook of Espionage. Sometimes the banter between the main characters was witty and fun, but other times it grated on me a bit. The fast jumps from one location to another kept the story moving, and for the most part that worked really well—but other times it felt too rushed and I wanted more time to settle into the scenes. Overall, an entertaining read with some good moments, but it didn’t completely click for me. I really thought I'd love it more.
Thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
I had mixed feelings about A Lady’s Handbook of Espionage. Sometimes the banter between the main characters was witty and fun, but other times it grated on me a bit. The fast jumps from one location to another kept the story moving, and for the most part that worked really well—but other times it felt too rushed and I wanted more time to settle into the scenes. Overall, an entertaining read with some good moments, but it didn’t completely click for me. I really thought I'd love it more.
Thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
August 1, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This was different and a very fun read! Witty, funny, great setting of different countries in the 1800s, but mostly England.
Both main characters were great, so were the side characters, written using my kind of humour, greatly paced. When I first started this I did not expect to enjoy it this much. Would very gladly read a whole series of books about Isabel and Ronan.
This was different and a very fun read! Witty, funny, great setting of different countries in the 1800s, but mostly England.
Both main characters were great, so were the side characters, written using my kind of humour, greatly paced. When I first started this I did not expect to enjoy it this much. Would very gladly read a whole series of books about Isabel and Ronan.
November 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this book!
It was full of action and adventure… but don't expect it to be light hearted.
Isabel and Ronan both have very dark pasts and the guy they're chasing is a really bad guy.
I loved the device of jumping forward in time in the early part of the book as Isabel and Ronan meet and get to know each other.
Thank you Aria & Aries and NetGalley for supplying this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
It was full of action and adventure… but don't expect it to be light hearted.
Isabel and Ronan both have very dark pasts and the guy they're chasing is a really bad guy.
I loved the device of jumping forward in time in the early part of the book as Isabel and Ronan meet and get to know each other.
Thank you Aria & Aries and NetGalley for supplying this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
August 7, 2025
Ronan Callaghan, a spy for the Government, has been chasing Isabel Dumont (the Spectre) for years but he is irresistibly drawn to her especially when agrees to betray the criminal empire that she works for. They are partnered together on an undercover mission, will they both survive.
A lot of humour but a bit too 'fifty shades of grey' in parts.
A lot of humour but a bit too 'fifty shades of grey' in parts.
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