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Evelyne Redfern #3
A Dark and Deadly Journey
Evelyne Redfern returns in A Dark and Deadly Journey, the next book in international bestselling author Julia Kelly’s captivating historical mystery series.
After being sidelined for a pesky gunshot wound, typist-turned-field agent Evelyne Redfern is ready for her next assignment with Britain’s secretive Special Investigations Unit. When a British Intelligence informant in Portugal mysteriously disappears just after hinting that he has vital information about German plans that could tip the balance of World War Two, Evelyne and her dashingly irksome partner, David Poole, are sent headed to Lisbon to find him.
Once they land, Evelyne and David aren't even able to leave the airport, before she discovers one of their fellow aeroplane passengers murdered and uncovers a diary with a clear link between the victim and their missing informant. With their mission in jeopardy before it can truly begin, Evelyne and David fight to keep their cover intact as they descend deeper into the shadows that surround Lisbon’s glittering collection of wealthy expats and dangerous spies. This case will test Evelyne and David’s training, charm, and wit—and their growing attraction for one another.
After being sidelined for a pesky gunshot wound, typist-turned-field agent Evelyne Redfern is ready for her next assignment with Britain’s secretive Special Investigations Unit. When a British Intelligence informant in Portugal mysteriously disappears just after hinting that he has vital information about German plans that could tip the balance of World War Two, Evelyne and her dashingly irksome partner, David Poole, are sent headed to Lisbon to find him.
Once they land, Evelyne and David aren't even able to leave the airport, before she discovers one of their fellow aeroplane passengers murdered and uncovers a diary with a clear link between the victim and their missing informant. With their mission in jeopardy before it can truly begin, Evelyne and David fight to keep their cover intact as they descend deeper into the shadows that surround Lisbon’s glittering collection of wealthy expats and dangerous spies. This case will test Evelyne and David’s training, charm, and wit—and their growing attraction for one another.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 23, 2025
67 people are currently reading
10720 people want to read
About the author
Julia Kelly
22 books2,527 followersJulia Kelly is the international bestselling author of historical fiction and historical mystery novels about the extraordinary stories of the past. Her books have been translated into 13 languages. In addition to writing, she’s been an Emmy-nominated producer, journalist, marketing professional, and (for one summer) a tea waitress. Julia has called Los Angeles, Iowa, and New York City home. She now lives in London with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
June 30, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up for a pleasant spy story with minimal violence, no sex or bad language. This is book 3 in the series and it is the only book that I have read in the series. It worked for me as a stand alone. Evelyne Redfern is a field agent for British Intelligence in 1940. She is sent to Lisbon, Portugal to find out why one their best informants has disappeared. She is partnered with David Poole, her partner on her last assignment. She has a side issue: she wants to find her father, Sir Reginald Redfern, who was last seen in Lisbon. He sent her a cryptic message while she was still in London.
She does solve both mysteries. Along the way, she has to deal with the Portuguese police, a menacing German spy, and a Russian princess.
Thank You St Martin's Press/ Minotaur Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
She does solve both mysteries. Along the way, she has to deal with the Portuguese police, a menacing German spy, and a Russian princess.
Thank You St Martin's Press/ Minotaur Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
September 5, 2025
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, WWII historical fiction mystery novel. It has an intelligent, strong and capable female protagonist, an engaging male protagonist, wit, a touch of humor, a dash of slow burn romance, murder, intrigue, suspense, twists and turns, and an unexpected conclusion. This is the third entry in Ms. Kelly's outstanding Evelyne Redfern series, and it is best when read in order for continuity. I am looking forward to reading the next installment with great anticipation. Many thanks to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, NetGalley, and Ms. Kelly, who provided me with an advanced reader copy of this wonderful novel. This is my honest opinion.
September 11, 2025
I truly enjoyed the audio of this story. The narrator gave an outstanding performance. I plan to go back and listen to the previous books in this series. The ending was so spectacular and a nice cliffhanger. I’m so excited to read the next one. Action packed and suspenseful. Loved the characters of Evelyne and David. Curious to see what becomes of their relationship. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The review is my own thoughts and unbiased.
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The review is my own thoughts and unbiased.
September 28, 2025
Historical fiction.
Written in Christie style.
I felt like I was actually there (primarily Lisbon)
in real life.
Excellent historical mystery novel!
This is the third novel in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series.
It can be read as a standalone, but is probably better after reading the first two books in the series.
Please see detailed description of novel on
cover or by other reviewers.
The book is expected to be released on September 23, 2025.
I highly recommend A Dark And Deadly Journey!
I received an ARC of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you, Minotaur Books and Julia Kelly for the Advanced Readers Copy.
#ADarkAndDeadlyJourney
#EvelyneRedfern
Written in Christie style.
I felt like I was actually there (primarily Lisbon)
in real life.
Excellent historical mystery novel!
This is the third novel in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series.
It can be read as a standalone, but is probably better after reading the first two books in the series.
Please see detailed description of novel on
cover or by other reviewers.
The book is expected to be released on September 23, 2025.
I highly recommend A Dark And Deadly Journey!
I received an ARC of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you, Minotaur Books and Julia Kelly for the Advanced Readers Copy.
#ADarkAndDeadlyJourney
#EvelyneRedfern
September 26, 2025
WHAT?!?!?! That was the most appalling cliffhanger I’ve ever read! I can’t possibly wait a year for the next book… 😱😱😱 Literally my mouth is just hanging open.
May 13, 2025
WWII British agent Evelyne Redfern and her irritating but very handsome partner David are sent to Lisbon, the hotbed of wartime intrigue, to find a missing informant with critically important data for the Allies. This is my new fave WWII series now that Maggie Hope has retired, and I found this latest addition thrilling. A histfic must-read!
October 30, 2025
Returning for the latest in Julia Kelly's Evelyne Redfern series, I gladly grabbed this third book for more adventures. Kelly has not failed to impress in the past and this novel made sure to pack just as much action! After being sidelined, Evelyne Redfern is ready to be assigned something new for Britain’s Special Investigations Unit. News that an informant with intel about the German war plans has gone missing in Portugal sends Evelyne and her partner, David Poole, to the continent. Things begin in a troubling manner when Evelyne and David are detained at the airport when a murder creates havoc and the victim is connected to this British informant. With the investigation in trouble before it’s properly begun, Evelyne will have to keep her cover and find the truth before the intel falls into the wrong hands. All the while, she and David must rebuff their ongoing attraction. Evelyne’s past creates a potential red flag for anyone to whom she speaks, putting this covert mission in jeopardy. Julia Kelly delivers another great mystery enveloped in great history.
Julia Kelly is an author who has always impressed me by mixing mystery and modern historical events. The story presents a great spy thriller and adds drama related to the war effort, in hopes of looping in the reader. There are many moments where things are clipping along, only to have something go awry. Kelly keeps the reader questioning everything and feeling entertained with all that is going on. Swift chapters help with this. I have enjoyed the previous two novels in this series and this one added something even better.
Characters set about creating their own backstories and development from the opening pages. Readers will enjoy different personalities that emerge through the reading experience, many of whom flavour things to add new layers to the book. Julia Kelly has done well in past books which continues here. The ongoing development of Evelyne Redfern’s character has me eager to see where things are headed and how Kelly will keep a fresh approach to wartime espionage.
Surprises are core in a story of this nature, as nothing is too predictable, even with history paving the way. This novel works well and Julia Kelly is keen to show her abilities. There are things that arise swiftly and keep the reader feeling edgy, as well as long-developing happenings that have been chapters in the making. The twists that emerge throughout help shape the reader’s reception of things amidst the advancement of war plans. I cannot wait to see what Julia Kelly has in store for this series in the novels to come.
Kudos, Madam Kelly, for a quick paced piece.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Julia Kelly is an author who has always impressed me by mixing mystery and modern historical events. The story presents a great spy thriller and adds drama related to the war effort, in hopes of looping in the reader. There are many moments where things are clipping along, only to have something go awry. Kelly keeps the reader questioning everything and feeling entertained with all that is going on. Swift chapters help with this. I have enjoyed the previous two novels in this series and this one added something even better.
Characters set about creating their own backstories and development from the opening pages. Readers will enjoy different personalities that emerge through the reading experience, many of whom flavour things to add new layers to the book. Julia Kelly has done well in past books which continues here. The ongoing development of Evelyne Redfern’s character has me eager to see where things are headed and how Kelly will keep a fresh approach to wartime espionage.
Surprises are core in a story of this nature, as nothing is too predictable, even with history paving the way. This novel works well and Julia Kelly is keen to show her abilities. There are things that arise swiftly and keep the reader feeling edgy, as well as long-developing happenings that have been chapters in the making. The twists that emerge throughout help shape the reader’s reception of things amidst the advancement of war plans. I cannot wait to see what Julia Kelly has in store for this series in the novels to come.
Kudos, Madam Kelly, for a quick paced piece.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
November 4, 2025
I cannot emphasize how much I LOVED this book! This 3rd book in the series really solidified the writing style and the characters. The author did a fantastic job with the mystery and left us on a cliffhanger leading into the next book! EEK! I did not anticipate that particular ending, but it made me even more excited as it means the series will be continuing. Pick up this series if you enjoy historical fiction, spies, and intrigue!
August 6, 2025
This was the most eventful installment of this incredible series yet…-and that’s saying something in light of all the things that Evelyn Redfern got up to in the first two books. This story has it all: spies, more development in the romantic subplot between David and Evelyn, information about Evelyn‘s father, and an incredible cliffhanger ending that takes this series in a very different direction.
At the beginning of the book, Evelyn receives a note from her estranged father with a key to a safe deposit box. Her father‘s instructions are to drop the box off, unopened, at a jeweler’s, but Evelyn opens the box and finds her late mother’s jewelry. Because of developments in this part of the story, Evelyn is asked by a government agent to look for her father on her upcoming trip to Portugal.
Evelyn’s handler assigns her to a job in Portugal with David, who has returned from parts unknown with a shoulder injury. What follows is a fascinating look at what Lisbon was like during World War II, as people were trying to find ways out of Europe and spies were trying to find ways to aid the war effort.
Eventually, Evelyn and David’s assignment merges with her secondary job to find her father. The conclusion of this part of the story is dramatic and introduces a new villain named Cerberus.
There is so much packed into a small package in this book. I should be used to this by now with Julia Kelly, but I am surprised once again that so much happens here. This is one of those books where you lament the fact that the next one is not already available. What a page-turner!
At the beginning of the book, Evelyn receives a note from her estranged father with a key to a safe deposit box. Her father‘s instructions are to drop the box off, unopened, at a jeweler’s, but Evelyn opens the box and finds her late mother’s jewelry. Because of developments in this part of the story, Evelyn is asked by a government agent to look for her father on her upcoming trip to Portugal.
Evelyn’s handler assigns her to a job in Portugal with David, who has returned from parts unknown with a shoulder injury. What follows is a fascinating look at what Lisbon was like during World War II, as people were trying to find ways out of Europe and spies were trying to find ways to aid the war effort.
Eventually, Evelyn and David’s assignment merges with her secondary job to find her father. The conclusion of this part of the story is dramatic and introduces a new villain named Cerberus.
There is so much packed into a small package in this book. I should be used to this by now with Julia Kelly, but I am surprised once again that so much happens here. This is one of those books where you lament the fact that the next one is not already available. What a page-turner!
November 17, 2025
This series has been consistently well-written, interesting, and entertaining. I'm having a good time with Evelyne Redfern's WWII adventures. This book was no exception.
The plot was nicely convoluted, what with Evelyne trying to do several different jobs at the same time. That's what happens when you get two sets of instructions: one from her boss Mr. Fletcher and one from her handler Mrs. White.
I enjoyed the glimpse of Lisbon during the early days of the war. It all seemed very familiar, having just read another book set in that same time and place. (I amused myself with picturing the two different sets of characters tripping over each other.)
Lots of action and several surprises led to a very thrilling conclusion and a humdinger of a set-up for the next book. I'm definitely looking forward to finding out What Happens Next.
The plot was nicely convoluted, what with Evelyne trying to do several different jobs at the same time. That's what happens when you get two sets of instructions: one from her boss Mr. Fletcher and one from her handler Mrs. White.
I enjoyed the glimpse of Lisbon during the early days of the war. It all seemed very familiar, having just read another book set in that same time and place. (I amused myself with picturing the two different sets of characters tripping over each other.)
Lots of action and several surprises led to a very thrilling conclusion and a humdinger of a set-up for the next book. I'm definitely looking forward to finding out What Happens Next.
April 30, 2025
Synopsis: Evelyne Redfern returns in her third WWII spy adventure for all the historical mystery fans. Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is sending Evelyne and her partner David Poole to Portugal to search for a missing informant. When they land, Evelyne discovers that one of the passengers has been quietly murdered during the flight. Having attracted unwanted police attention, Evelyne and David endeavour to maintain their cover while searching for the missing informant among the sea of expats and spies in Portugal’s teeming nightclubs, cafés, casinos and parties.
Thoughts: I flew through this captivating account of Evelyne’s daring adventures with the reticent and handsome David Poole. I felt the series lost a little momentum with the second book, Betrayal at Blackthorn Park, but the duo was back on their game in this one. One quibble I did have, albeit a minor one, was that David, supposedly an experienced and intelligent spy, needed to have a plot twist explained to him by Evelyne because he failed to grasp it. The reader can see the plot twist coming and it just didn’t feel authentic that David would need this explained to him by Evelyne, a novice at the game.
The choice of location for this book was brilliant – Portugal during WWII was neutral and did not suffer the deprivations and destruction that was evident in Britain. It provides the novel with a perfect backdrop of glittering, seductive nightlife, escape routes for refugees and Allied soldiers, and deadly danger due to the presence of Axis agents and spies. Evelyne and David have a smoldering chemistry which adds romantic tension, and Evelyne finally faces off against her elusive father. True to form, the novel ends on a cliffhanger which promises more excitement to come.
Thoughts: I flew through this captivating account of Evelyne’s daring adventures with the reticent and handsome David Poole. I felt the series lost a little momentum with the second book, Betrayal at Blackthorn Park, but the duo was back on their game in this one. One quibble I did have, albeit a minor one, was that David, supposedly an experienced and intelligent spy, needed to have a plot twist explained to him by Evelyne because he failed to grasp it. The reader can see the plot twist coming and it just didn’t feel authentic that David would need this explained to him by Evelyne, a novice at the game.
The choice of location for this book was brilliant – Portugal during WWII was neutral and did not suffer the deprivations and destruction that was evident in Britain. It provides the novel with a perfect backdrop of glittering, seductive nightlife, escape routes for refugees and Allied soldiers, and deadly danger due to the presence of Axis agents and spies. Evelyne and David have a smoldering chemistry which adds romantic tension, and Evelyne finally faces off against her elusive father. True to form, the novel ends on a cliffhanger which promises more excitement to come.
September 22, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Sept. 23, 2025
“A Dark and Deadly Journey” is the third novel in Julia Kelly’s Evelyne Redfern series. Set during the 1940’s, Evelyne continues to work for Britain’s Special Investigations Unit. A captivating historical mystery, with a firecracker protagonist, Kelley’s “Journey” is the perfect addition to the series.
When a British Intelligence Informant disappears, Evelyne and her partner David are sent to Portugal to investigate. At the same time, Evelyne receives a secret message from her long-estranged father, which leads her to a safety deposit box- full of her deceased mother’s jewels that Evelyne thought had gone missing long ago. While in Portugal, Evelyne realizes that the missing agent and the jewels might actually be connected and, once two men are found dead, Evelyne must face the truth that her father could be involved in a dangerous and deadly scheme that could very well put Evelyne’s life at risk.
“Journey” picks up right where the previous novel left off, and ends with a heck of a cliffhanger, pretty much guaranteeing that another novel in the series is forthcoming (and I’m all for it). The relationship between Evelyne and David continues to grow more complicated, and “Journey” provides a unique insight into Evelyne’s life through the appearance of her estranged father. Of course, the missing agent and the mysterious jewels are the prime plot point, but I loved learning more about Evelyne in this instalment. These are the kind of details you miss out on if you don’t read every book in the series (although it is possible to do so).
This novel is rife with characters (and therefore, potential suspects) which makes sense since there are essentially two plot points. Kelley beautifully weaves both plots together, connecting them seamlessly, converging into a shocking and completely unexpected ending.
I read the first and second novels in this series, in order, and I have been obsessed with Evelyne since book one. A young, female spy during a time and in an organization where this was not encouraged easily gains Evelyne support, but the fact that she overtly and obviously takes charge, takes no prisoners and makes no excuses while she solves the mystery makes her all the more lovable.
The ending of this one is absolutely heart-stopping so I will definitely be keeping an eye out for book four. I eagerly look forward to Evelyne’s next adventure.
Expected publication date: Sept. 23, 2025
“A Dark and Deadly Journey” is the third novel in Julia Kelly’s Evelyne Redfern series. Set during the 1940’s, Evelyne continues to work for Britain’s Special Investigations Unit. A captivating historical mystery, with a firecracker protagonist, Kelley’s “Journey” is the perfect addition to the series.
When a British Intelligence Informant disappears, Evelyne and her partner David are sent to Portugal to investigate. At the same time, Evelyne receives a secret message from her long-estranged father, which leads her to a safety deposit box- full of her deceased mother’s jewels that Evelyne thought had gone missing long ago. While in Portugal, Evelyne realizes that the missing agent and the jewels might actually be connected and, once two men are found dead, Evelyne must face the truth that her father could be involved in a dangerous and deadly scheme that could very well put Evelyne’s life at risk.
“Journey” picks up right where the previous novel left off, and ends with a heck of a cliffhanger, pretty much guaranteeing that another novel in the series is forthcoming (and I’m all for it). The relationship between Evelyne and David continues to grow more complicated, and “Journey” provides a unique insight into Evelyne’s life through the appearance of her estranged father. Of course, the missing agent and the mysterious jewels are the prime plot point, but I loved learning more about Evelyne in this instalment. These are the kind of details you miss out on if you don’t read every book in the series (although it is possible to do so).
This novel is rife with characters (and therefore, potential suspects) which makes sense since there are essentially two plot points. Kelley beautifully weaves both plots together, connecting them seamlessly, converging into a shocking and completely unexpected ending.
I read the first and second novels in this series, in order, and I have been obsessed with Evelyne since book one. A young, female spy during a time and in an organization where this was not encouraged easily gains Evelyne support, but the fact that she overtly and obviously takes charge, takes no prisoners and makes no excuses while she solves the mystery makes her all the more lovable.
The ending of this one is absolutely heart-stopping so I will definitely be keeping an eye out for book four. I eagerly look forward to Evelyne’s next adventure.
September 24, 2025
1940’s Lisbon, a seething morass of spies and socialites!
Evelyne Redfern and her partner David Poole are being sent to Lisbon to track down a missing informant by the name of James Winn.
However that’s not all. Unbeknownst to the Special Investigations Unit, a secretive branch of British Intelligence, Evelyne’s father Sir Reginald has contacted her with a request. A request that cuts across her original instructions and accidentally involves her in murder. Well to be fair, that happened on the plane to Lisbon. Evelyne races back onboard to rescue her latest detective novel only to find a man sitting in his seat—dead!
Evelyne finds herself in plots, counterplots, smuggling, treasonous behavior, and oh yes! Her father!
A witty, fast moving spy novel with a What!! ending that left me wanting more and gasping in disbelief!
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Evelyne Redfern and her partner David Poole are being sent to Lisbon to track down a missing informant by the name of James Winn.
However that’s not all. Unbeknownst to the Special Investigations Unit, a secretive branch of British Intelligence, Evelyne’s father Sir Reginald has contacted her with a request. A request that cuts across her original instructions and accidentally involves her in murder. Well to be fair, that happened on the plane to Lisbon. Evelyne races back onboard to rescue her latest detective novel only to find a man sitting in his seat—dead!
Evelyne finds herself in plots, counterplots, smuggling, treasonous behavior, and oh yes! Her father!
A witty, fast moving spy novel with a What!! ending that left me wanting more and gasping in disbelief!
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
October 15, 2025
AAAAAAAAAAAHHH AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH
YOU’RE JOKING MISS JULIA YOU’RE ABSOLUTELY JOKING HOW CAN YOU END IT LIKE THAT
oh i LOVE this cover
i’m SOOOO excited for this book, counting down the days!!!
YOU’RE JOKING MISS JULIA YOU’RE ABSOLUTELY JOKING HOW CAN YOU END IT LIKE THAT
oh i LOVE this cover
i’m SOOOO excited for this book, counting down the days!!!
June 30, 2025
A Dark and Deadly Journey
By: Julia Kelly
I love this series about Evelyne Redfern. Kelly has created a fun character.
Evelyne next assignment with Britian’s secretive Special Investigations Unit has her in the middle of a disappearance of a man who had crucial evidence that could change everything and provide a clue during WW2.
Evelyne and her partner David are assigned to Lisbon. However, on the plane ride passengers are murdered.
These two always find adventure, romance and scary situations.
September 16, 2025
Thanks Minotaur for my #gifted e-ARC via Netgalley. My opinions are my own.
This was a great new installment in the series! The characters are getting more depth and the mysteries are good (3, in this book). Evelyne is still struggling with lying to her loved ones, which makes me (and her, I think) wonder if she’s really cut out for this. And the imbalance between her and David is even more pronounced (she is obviously smarter than him and better at detection—not sure that I like that). And the lines between right and wrong are even more blurred as they work in wartime Lisbon, a hotbed of intrigue, spies, and deception. I don’t know much about World War II Lisbon, and this was a very interesting first look for me. I was engrossed. This one has a doozy of a cliffhanger, which I don’t like, but I guess it does its job by making me want to read the next installment.
This was a great new installment in the series! The characters are getting more depth and the mysteries are good (3, in this book). Evelyne is still struggling with lying to her loved ones, which makes me (and her, I think) wonder if she’s really cut out for this. And the imbalance between her and David is even more pronounced (she is obviously smarter than him and better at detection—not sure that I like that). And the lines between right and wrong are even more blurred as they work in wartime Lisbon, a hotbed of intrigue, spies, and deception. I don’t know much about World War II Lisbon, and this was a very interesting first look for me. I was engrossed. This one has a doozy of a cliffhanger, which I don’t like, but I guess it does its job by making me want to read the next installment.
June 22, 2025
Thank you to St. Martins Press/Minotaur for a free early electronic copy via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Book 3 in the Evelyn Redfern Mystery Series has our intrepid spy Evelyn showing some growth of character. Introduced into the secretive SIU service for Great Britain during WWII in book one and out of duty via a gunshot wound by the end of book two. Book 3 has Evelyn adopting a false name as she and her once again partner, David Poole, travel to Portugal. The locale is a den of spies and also supplies a beautiful backdrop for the shenanigans taking place. A simple find-the-missing-spy turns out to be much more than anticipated. In fact, things are going to get personal for Miss Redfern.
Being a woman in the 1940's in the spy business has Redfern fighting both the patriarchy and spies. As the Redfern character grows, so do her responses to her situations as a female. Also, the will they, won't they between Redfern and Poole is continued but with Evelyn considering the repercussions to her alone. What is a cool twist is when Evelyn decides to withhold info from her partner. She is finding ways to be a leader or at least equal in this partnership.
As with the previous two installations, there is a cliffhanger at the end. Somewhat surprising one, at that. Not everyone is a fan of Evelyne Redfern. Stayed tune.
Book 3 in the Evelyn Redfern Mystery Series has our intrepid spy Evelyn showing some growth of character. Introduced into the secretive SIU service for Great Britain during WWII in book one and out of duty via a gunshot wound by the end of book two. Book 3 has Evelyn adopting a false name as she and her once again partner, David Poole, travel to Portugal. The locale is a den of spies and also supplies a beautiful backdrop for the shenanigans taking place. A simple find-the-missing-spy turns out to be much more than anticipated. In fact, things are going to get personal for Miss Redfern.
Being a woman in the 1940's in the spy business has Redfern fighting both the patriarchy and spies. As the Redfern character grows, so do her responses to her situations as a female. Also, the will they, won't they between Redfern and Poole is continued but with Evelyn considering the repercussions to her alone. What is a cool twist is when Evelyn decides to withhold info from her partner. She is finding ways to be a leader or at least equal in this partnership.
As with the previous two installations, there is a cliffhanger at the end. Somewhat surprising one, at that. Not everyone is a fan of Evelyne Redfern. Stayed tune.
October 10, 2025
This was quite an exciting book! It is a great combination of a twisting mystery and a well-researched historical fiction. London and the rest of Europe is in the midst of World War II, but Portugal is neutral, and Lisbon has become a haven for wealthy Ex patriots hoping to buy their way out of Europe. It also has become a haven for spies of all kinds. Evelyne and her partner, David, are assigned to Lisbon, posing as a wine merchant and his secretary to locate a British Intelligence informant who is missing. The discovery of a murdered man on the flight to Lisbon delays the start of their mission. Evelyne soon realizes that the murdered man may be connected to their assigned mission. As they struggle to maintain their cover, they find themselves in a desperate search for the missing informant. There is danger all around them, as lies and deceit swirl around them and their investigation. Julia Kelly has written a fast paced, thrilling mystery that kept me guessing from beginning to end. I enjoyed seeing how Evelyne and David are evolving in the story. And what a surprise ending! Quite a cliff hanger. Can't wait for the next book! My wife did receive an advance copy of the book, and I am glad she did! The opinions of this review are my own.
September 5, 2025
EVELYNE’S JOURNEY OF INTRIGUE
Julia Kelly has graciously provided readers with another glimpse into the adventurous life of Evelyne Redfern, everyone’s favorite typist-turned-field-agent. I highly recommend it! This second book could be titled “Evelyne’s Journey of Intrigue,” as there is something new to discover at every turn, threats to their mission around every corner, and dead bodies continually turning up in their path!
Although they have contacts and supposed business associates, Evelyne and her partner—and potential love interest—David Poole, can never be sure who they can trust. They must learn to rely on each other completely to solve the case. However, Evelyne is hiding a closely kept secret: her father is somehow in Lisbon as well. She has been instructed by her main boss not to tell David at this time, despite their agreement for full disclosure. Will Evelyne decide to reveal the truth about her father to prevent David from being caught off guard? Is Evelyne’s father part of the problem or part of the solution?
St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley provided me with a copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Julia Kelly has graciously provided readers with another glimpse into the adventurous life of Evelyne Redfern, everyone’s favorite typist-turned-field-agent. I highly recommend it! This second book could be titled “Evelyne’s Journey of Intrigue,” as there is something new to discover at every turn, threats to their mission around every corner, and dead bodies continually turning up in their path!
Although they have contacts and supposed business associates, Evelyne and her partner—and potential love interest—David Poole, can never be sure who they can trust. They must learn to rely on each other completely to solve the case. However, Evelyne is hiding a closely kept secret: her father is somehow in Lisbon as well. She has been instructed by her main boss not to tell David at this time, despite their agreement for full disclosure. Will Evelyne decide to reveal the truth about her father to prevent David from being caught off guard? Is Evelyne’s father part of the problem or part of the solution?
St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley provided me with a copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
September 19, 2025
An absolutely smashing third book in this series, thrilling from beginning to end!! It is World War II, London and most of Europe is in the midst of the war, but Portugal is neutral, and Lisbon is a glittering haven for spies from all sides, alongside wealthy expats. Evelyne and her partner David, traveling under the guise of a wine merchant and his secretary have been sent to Lisbon on a mission to locate a British Intelligence informant who has gone missing. Upon landing, the discovery of a murdered man on the plane delays the start of their mission. Evelyne soon realizes the murdered man may have a connection to their investigation. The two soon find themselves in a desperate search for the missing informant, as they struggle to maintain their cover. They are caught in a web of lies and deceit on all sides, and danger at every turn. Julia Kelly has written a well-researched, exciting spy novel, with plot twists throughout, and excellent character development, that features two of my favorite characters, Evelyne and David. And what a surprising cliff hanger ending! I can hardly wait for the next book! Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.
September 13, 2025
I listened to the ALC of A Dark and Deadly Journey by Julia Kelly and narrated by Marissa Calin and I really enjoyed it! I could not stop and I consumed this in one sitting. The narrator was fantastic with all the voices and the story is fantastic. Our FMC, Evelyn, is a British spy during WWII. In her last mission she was shot and she has been off recovering. Now, she is sent on a mission with her partner to Lisbon. Portugal is neutral but the Allies and Axis powers are both in Portugal trying to swing hearts and minds their way. There is somewhat of a romantic subplot in a g-rated, gentle yearning sort of way that adds meaning to the overall story especially the ending. I loved this book and recommend listening to the audio! Thank you to #netgalley and #macmillanaudio for my advance listener copy!
October 8, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for a digital advance reader copy. All comments and opinions are my own unless otherwise noted.
This was the third in the series and just as good as the first two. If you haven’t read the others, you can easily start with this one as a stand-alone, but I urge you to go back and read them in order if possible for the best enjoyment.
What made this novel a page turner? It’s a well-written, well-researched historical mystery that takes place during World War II in Lisbon, Portugal. There are spies and counter spies. No one can be trusted as Evelyne quickly learns.
Evelyne Redfern is a field agent with Britain’s secretive Special Investigations Unit. She’s smart, quick-thinking, and brave during a period when women were not often given the opportunity.
I couldn’t wait to read Evelyne’s latest episode of intrigue but was surprised when it ended with a sudden cliffhanger. Now I’ll be keeping an impatient eye out for book four. I envy you if you are about to begin reading about Evelyne starting with A Traitor in Whitehall and I highly recommend this series.
This was the third in the series and just as good as the first two. If you haven’t read the others, you can easily start with this one as a stand-alone, but I urge you to go back and read them in order if possible for the best enjoyment.
What made this novel a page turner? It’s a well-written, well-researched historical mystery that takes place during World War II in Lisbon, Portugal. There are spies and counter spies. No one can be trusted as Evelyne quickly learns.
Evelyne Redfern is a field agent with Britain’s secretive Special Investigations Unit. She’s smart, quick-thinking, and brave during a period when women were not often given the opportunity.
I couldn’t wait to read Evelyne’s latest episode of intrigue but was surprised when it ended with a sudden cliffhanger. Now I’ll be keeping an impatient eye out for book four. I envy you if you are about to begin reading about Evelyne starting with A Traitor in Whitehall and I highly recommend this series.
July 7, 2025
Solid third entry in the Evelyne Redfern series. I give it 3.5 stars.
I already wanted to read this book, but seeing it was set in Lisbon sealed the deal as I have recently become interested in WWII fiction books set in Lisbon.
While I enjoyed the book, there were a couple things that did not ring true to me. I read a lot of suspense, mystery, spy books, and I had a hard time believing that Evelyne and David really made no effort to even pretend to stick to their cover story. They gave lip service to it, but their actions spoke otherwise. I mean, at least set up an actual meeting or two. Also, they seemed quite obvious in their questioning of people.
I received a free digital copy of this book from Minotaur Books via NetGalley in return for my honest opinion.
I already wanted to read this book, but seeing it was set in Lisbon sealed the deal as I have recently become interested in WWII fiction books set in Lisbon.
While I enjoyed the book, there were a couple things that did not ring true to me. I read a lot of suspense, mystery, spy books, and I had a hard time believing that Evelyne and David really made no effort to even pretend to stick to their cover story. They gave lip service to it, but their actions spoke otherwise. I mean, at least set up an actual meeting or two. Also, they seemed quite obvious in their questioning of people.
I received a free digital copy of this book from Minotaur Books via NetGalley in return for my honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
Another fabulous book in this series that I love so much! I adore Evelyne and even more so when people doubt or underestimate her. She is breaking all the stereotypes and all the odds. She is savvy and smart and even in the face of personal turmoil or possible pain she perseveres. I love her quips and the banter in this book is so good. It's such a fun look into espionage during WWII in other countries and away from the typical stories. I love a good undercover story and this was so fun! So many twists and shocks and the ending, WOW. I am floored and neeeed the next book. Also she and David.... SIGH. So much tension. I love it!
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was just fabulous! I love this narrator and she really brings the cheeky humor through!
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was just fabulous! I love this narrator and she really brings the cheeky humor through!
October 14, 2025
The second WWII mystery set in Lisbon by a female british operative recently.
This was much better than the psuedo adventure romance that is The Final Turn.
Good mystey and support characters.
I did suspect the culprit but not the kernel of the mystery.
Didn't care for the ending, but does set up further good stories with Redfern
This was much better than the psuedo adventure romance that is The Final Turn.
Good mystey and support characters.
I did suspect the culprit but not the kernel of the mystery.
Didn't care for the ending, but does set up further good stories with Redfern
October 10, 2025
This was a fun mystery for me, particularly because of the location: Lisbon. It is a spy novel; but I think people who like who dun-its, like the Thursday Murder Club series, would really enjoy it; as it is more a mystery than your typical spy/espionage action. The characters are very likable and it will keep you guessing till the end. I haven’t read the first two in this series; but I will definitely go back and read them now. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an ARC of this book.
November 20, 2025
The strongest installment of the series thus far.
September 5, 2025
This is another incredible chapter in the life of Evelyne Redfern. The story immerses you with a depth of characters and an end that leaves you desperate for another chapter
September 18, 2025
A British woman that is an intelligence agent during WWII – this one sounded right up my alley. Unfortunately, I never connected with any of the characters. I think I have found I love historical fiction, but really am not a fan of historical fiction/mystery and historical fiction/ romance. The whole plot felt bland and I was not invested in it. I don’t think I’ll be continuing on with this series.
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