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Secret Lives Mysteries #3
Desperate Spies
Badass 75-year-old retired FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater is back—stalking mobsters, dodging bullets, and pulling off Bond-worthy moves as she tracks down missing state secrets in this fun and pacy new installment in the Secret Lives mystery series
“Ethel’s adventures will appeal to fans of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series and Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age”—Library Journal Starred Review
“Ethel looks like Marple but acts like Marlowe”—Kirkus Reviews
“Plucky Ethel is an elderly Nancy Drew”—Publishers Weekly
For seventy-five-year-old former FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater, her age is nothing but an advantage when it comes to ferreting out secrets. Who's going to notice the little old woman in the corner? Besides, Ethel might be officially retired, but she knows everyone in DC law enforcement—and is smarter than all of them combined.
When a former colleague asks Ethel for help, she agrees without a second thought. But the favor throws Ethel back eighteen years, to the botched sting operation that resulted in the murder of an innocent young woman by a Russian gangster—and nearly ended Ethel’s own life too.
Soon, Ethel and her young tech-whizz sidekick Jesse, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, find themselves in the crosshairs of some very bad—and very desperate—men who’ll do anything to get their hands on the state secrets they’re seeking. Ethel will have to use all the skills she’s learned during her long career if she’s to save the day, and keep both herself and her beloved cousin alive.
“Ethel’s adventures will appeal to fans of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series and Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age”—Library Journal Starred Review
“Ethel looks like Marple but acts like Marlowe”—Kirkus Reviews
“Plucky Ethel is an elderly Nancy Drew”—Publishers Weekly
For seventy-five-year-old former FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater, her age is nothing but an advantage when it comes to ferreting out secrets. Who's going to notice the little old woman in the corner? Besides, Ethel might be officially retired, but she knows everyone in DC law enforcement—and is smarter than all of them combined.
When a former colleague asks Ethel for help, she agrees without a second thought. But the favor throws Ethel back eighteen years, to the botched sting operation that resulted in the murder of an innocent young woman by a Russian gangster—and nearly ended Ethel’s own life too.
Soon, Ethel and her young tech-whizz sidekick Jesse, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, find themselves in the crosshairs of some very bad—and very desperate—men who’ll do anything to get their hands on the state secrets they’re seeking. Ethel will have to use all the skills she’s learned during her long career if she’s to save the day, and keep both herself and her beloved cousin alive.
230 pages, Hardcover
Published November 4, 2025
About the author
Mark de Castrique
32 books178 followersMark de Castrique is an author, playwright, public speaker, and television producer living in Charlotte.
Through his company MARK et al., he writes, shoots, and edits projects for a variety of clients.
His work has earned CLIO, TELLY, and EMMY awards.
Mark has scripted stories aired on PBS and commercial network affiliates, as well as created video presentations for major corporations.
Through his company MARK et al., he writes, shoots, and edits projects for a variety of clients.
His work has earned CLIO, TELLY, and EMMY awards.
Mark has scripted stories aired on PBS and commercial network affiliates, as well as created video presentations for major corporations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 31, 2025
Thanks to the intervention of an old FBI pal and mentee, 75-year-old Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a spy turned landlady, gets her lodger and double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper involved in investigating. But the outcome of this supposed-to-be-one-time adventure turns into a complicated case when a Mafia lawyer is killed right after meeting with Ethel and Jesse is first on the scene.
Who killed Tony Bagatelos, a longtime lawyer for brother, a mob kingpin, and for a very shady senator on the verge of senility? Options are Bagatelos’ own crime family, the Russian mob, rogue mobsters and others. And Ethel herself is in danger, thanks to a tie to an FBI sting gone wrong 18 years ago in Philadelphia that forced Ethel’s retirement.
Author Mark de Castrique has penned a third entry in this delightful series that kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the time. Those who haven’t read Secret Lives or Dangerous Women, the previous novels in the series, won’t feel the least bit lost. But do yourself a favor and catch up as soon as you can. You’re really missing something.
In contrast, de Castrique didn’t miss any opportunity to turn this into a five-star read. Highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Severn House in exchange for an honest review.
Who killed Tony Bagatelos, a longtime lawyer for brother, a mob kingpin, and for a very shady senator on the verge of senility? Options are Bagatelos’ own crime family, the Russian mob, rogue mobsters and others. And Ethel herself is in danger, thanks to a tie to an FBI sting gone wrong 18 years ago in Philadelphia that forced Ethel’s retirement.
Author Mark de Castrique has penned a third entry in this delightful series that kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the time. Those who haven’t read Secret Lives or Dangerous Women, the previous novels in the series, won’t feel the least bit lost. But do yourself a favor and catch up as soon as you can. You’re really missing something.
In contrast, de Castrique didn’t miss any opportunity to turn this into a five-star read. Highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Severn House in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2025
Desperate Spies by Mark de Castrique continues the adventures of 75-year-old Ethel Crestwater, a former FBI agent who runs a boarding house for government agents and law enforcement employees in Arlington, Virginia, near Washington, DC. Petite Ethel, who retired 18 years ago--we learn the reason for her early retirement in this book--is still formidable. She isn't afraid to make use of her contacts on both sides of the law when necessary, as she gets pulled into some dangerous situations because of her impressive experience and her still-sharp analytical and strategic skills.
After a mob-related attorney informant is killed as he is about to divulge classified activities and information that are sought by more than one source, Ethel finds herself involved in efforts to dismantle a conspiracy that revolves around quantum computing advances that could be used for nefarious purposes. At her side, as usual, is her engaging college-age cousin, Jesse.
f know nothing about quantum anything, and although it was explained briefly, I would have appreciated a theme that was a bit easier to digest. In addition, I missed the element of human interest that was present in Secret Lives and Dangerous Women, the two previous books in the series. The prose is dense (although the book is short), and everything that happens is explained in excruciating detail, step by step, which I found to be somewhat tedious. I did enjoy the references to the UFOs (United Flying Octogenarians) that provide assistance to Ethel when needed. This is a story where violence cannot be avoided, but it is mostly non-graphic, except for one memorable scene. I'm hoping for more of a return to what made the previous books so entertaining in future series entries.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
After a mob-related attorney informant is killed as he is about to divulge classified activities and information that are sought by more than one source, Ethel finds herself involved in efforts to dismantle a conspiracy that revolves around quantum computing advances that could be used for nefarious purposes. At her side, as usual, is her engaging college-age cousin, Jesse.
f know nothing about quantum anything, and although it was explained briefly, I would have appreciated a theme that was a bit easier to digest. In addition, I missed the element of human interest that was present in Secret Lives and Dangerous Women, the two previous books in the series. The prose is dense (although the book is short), and everything that happens is explained in excruciating detail, step by step, which I found to be somewhat tedious. I did enjoy the references to the UFOs (United Flying Octogenarians) that provide assistance to Ethel when needed. This is a story where violence cannot be avoided, but it is mostly non-graphic, except for one memorable scene. I'm hoping for more of a return to what made the previous books so entertaining in future series entries.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
October 30, 2025
The delightful spy duo of 75 year old retired FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater, and her double first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse Cooper, are back in action. We go back to Ethel's last case when a Russian gangster killed Kathy Bagatelos, whose father, Tony, was a mob lawyer, and wounded Ethel. Tony it seems, as become a confidential informant for Ethel's FBI agent friend, Cassandra “CiCi” Crawford. He asks for meeting with Ethel and tells her that there is a target on her back. Tony is killed shortly after this meeting and Jesse is kidnapped. Ethel, with some help, investigates Tony's murder.
This is such a fun series, not exactly a cozy, and not exactly a spy thriller. We are introduced to a number of new characters, good guys and bad. Mark de Castrique's writing moves the plot along at a brisk pace. Ethel's impressive skills are put to work here. She has got some stealthy moves for her age. I love the relationship between Ethel and Jesse and how it has developed. (Read the previous two books for more fun and Ethel's spy craft). I eagerly await Ethel and Jesse's next adventure!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Severn House, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
This is such a fun series, not exactly a cozy, and not exactly a spy thriller. We are introduced to a number of new characters, good guys and bad. Mark de Castrique's writing moves the plot along at a brisk pace. Ethel's impressive skills are put to work here. She has got some stealthy moves for her age. I love the relationship between Ethel and Jesse and how it has developed. (Read the previous two books for more fun and Ethel's spy craft). I eagerly await Ethel and Jesse's next adventure!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Severn House, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
November 5, 2025
Mark de Castrique returns with a captivating addition to one of my favorite series, featuring the unstoppable Ethel Fiona Crestwater in the thrilling third installment of the Secret Lives series—DESPERATE SPIES.
Secret Lives Series:
#1 Secret Lives
#2 Dangerous Women
#3 Desperate Spies
Genre:
Political thriller with cozy mystery and P.I. caper elements
Themes:
Intrigue, action, and humor
Main Character:
Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a feisty and fearless 75-year-old retired FBI agent and now landlord, reclaims her spotlight in this action-packed adventure.
Residing in her boarding house for government FBI and Secret Service agents in Arlington, Virginia, she juggles her time between watching over her tenants—including FBI and Secret Service agents—and mentoring her ambitious young cousin, tech-savvy Jesse Cooper, a grad student eager to be part of her thrilling world.
Ethel fiercely adheres to her own code of conduct, unafraid to bend—or even break—the rules to unveil the truth. With Jesse as her only living relative, she is fiercely protective, demonstrating a blend of maternal love and steadfast loyalty.
In this riveting tale, the stakes are higher than ever. The narrative unfolds with relentless action, sinister stalking by mobsters, hair-raising bullet-dodging, and dazzlingly daring escapades, while Ethel races to unravel the puzzle of missing state secrets and save Jesse in this enthralling edition of the Secret Lives mystery series.
About...
The Past:
Ethel finds herself pulled back into the treacherous world of espionage when a lawyer linked to an old unresolved case is murdered. This shocking death reconnects her with a haunting memory from 18 years ago—a ruthless Russian mobster who left a trail of destruction by killing the daughter of an informant and nearly taking Ethel’s life during her active years with the FBI.
The Present:
As the plot thickens, the recent release of the ruthless, vengeful Russian mobster Mikhail Golubev from prison casts a looming shadow over Ethel, making her a target once more. The tension escalates when Jesse, her bright and spirited protégé, is kidnapped by those seeking the state secrets entwined with the unresolved case.
The Investigation:
Ethel’s resolve intensifies as she embarks on a perilous quest to rescue Jesse and piece together the murders from both the past and present, all while trying to keep the FBI at arm’s length from her investigation. The murder of Tony Bagatelos, a lawyer intertwined with her previous case and friend to FBI agent CiCi Crawford, reignites the flames of suspicion and danger—the perfect storm for Ethel.
The New Threat:
As Ethel steps back into the lethal game of espionage, she must navigate a labyrinth of cracks and shadows while using every ounce of her seasoned skills. With her network of old contacts and the elements of traditional spycraft at her disposal, she deftly skirts the official police investigation, all while remaining unseen in a world bustling with peril.
Caught in a deadly game, Ethel and Jesse face a slew of sinister adversaries who will stop at nothing to retrieve the secrets that could upend their lives. Ethel’s life experiences provide her with the edge as she turns her age into an asset, utilizing the stereotypes others tactically hold against her.
A complex web of suspects:
The plot thickens with the introduction of numerous characters, including FBI Director Rudy Hauser, Senator Herman Wilkes, and various Russian villains.
Ethel’s life is a whirlwind of intrigue, humor, and danger, showcasing the resilience and dynamism of a woman who refuses to be defined by age. Get ready for an exhilarating ride alongside this dynamic duo, where adventure and excitement lie at every turn!
My thoughts...
I am absolutely enamored with this series, particularly with the empowering portrayal of women in my age group who refuse to fade into the background. In DESPERATE SPIES, Ethel is the embodiment of toughness, resilience, and razor-sharp wit, brimming with clever tricks at every twist and turn.
The narrative expertly melds the elements of a gripping spy thriller with the exhilarating pace of a high-energy caper, each page turning with purpose. Ethel's clever harnessing of her age, turning others’ underestimations into an advantage, highlights her brilliance in navigating a dangerous landscape of espionage, violence, and deceit.
Jesse is Ethel's loyal partner, providing crucial tech skills to complement her old-school investigative methods. Showcasing age is just a number when it comes to crime-solving.
Leveraging her extensive experience from years in the FBI, Ethel possesses a wealth of knowledge and connections that younger agents could only dream of having. This vast network of contacts becomes paramount as she embarks on her covert mission to save Jesse.
Ethel adeptly blends into the background, with underestimated appearances allowing her to strike swiftly from the shadows. Now liberated from the confines of the FBI’s bureaucracy and corruption, Ethel operates on her own terms, driven by a personal agenda that resists the constraints placed upon her by an ever-evolving agency.
The author's insightful note and expertise in the field add depth to the narrative, bringing authenticity and life to every twist and turn of the story.
Recommendations...
DESPERATE SPIES is a must-read for fans of the author and the Secret Lives series, as well as anyone who appreciates tales of clever septuagenarians who continue to defy expectations.
Those who enjoyed Tess Gerritsen's "The Martini Club series," Samantha Downing's "Too Old For This," Elle Cosimano's "Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave," (Mrs. Haggerty), Richard Osman’s "The Thusday Murder Club," Jesse Q. Sutanto's "Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers," Robert Thorogood's The Marlow Murder Club series, "An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good" by Helene Turstenand, Dorothy Gilman's Mrs. Pollifax series, and "Killers of a Certain Age," by Deanna Raybourn will find a thrilling and relatable experience in this extraordinary journey. Highly recommended!
Special thanks to Severn House and NetGalley for sharing an advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Nov 04, 2025
Nov Newsletter
Nov Must-Read Books
Secret Lives Series:
#1 Secret Lives
#2 Dangerous Women
#3 Desperate Spies
Genre:
Political thriller with cozy mystery and P.I. caper elements
Themes:
Intrigue, action, and humor
Main Character:
Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a feisty and fearless 75-year-old retired FBI agent and now landlord, reclaims her spotlight in this action-packed adventure.
Residing in her boarding house for government FBI and Secret Service agents in Arlington, Virginia, she juggles her time between watching over her tenants—including FBI and Secret Service agents—and mentoring her ambitious young cousin, tech-savvy Jesse Cooper, a grad student eager to be part of her thrilling world.
Ethel fiercely adheres to her own code of conduct, unafraid to bend—or even break—the rules to unveil the truth. With Jesse as her only living relative, she is fiercely protective, demonstrating a blend of maternal love and steadfast loyalty.
In this riveting tale, the stakes are higher than ever. The narrative unfolds with relentless action, sinister stalking by mobsters, hair-raising bullet-dodging, and dazzlingly daring escapades, while Ethel races to unravel the puzzle of missing state secrets and save Jesse in this enthralling edition of the Secret Lives mystery series.
About...
The Past:
Ethel finds herself pulled back into the treacherous world of espionage when a lawyer linked to an old unresolved case is murdered. This shocking death reconnects her with a haunting memory from 18 years ago—a ruthless Russian mobster who left a trail of destruction by killing the daughter of an informant and nearly taking Ethel’s life during her active years with the FBI.
The Present:
As the plot thickens, the recent release of the ruthless, vengeful Russian mobster Mikhail Golubev from prison casts a looming shadow over Ethel, making her a target once more. The tension escalates when Jesse, her bright and spirited protégé, is kidnapped by those seeking the state secrets entwined with the unresolved case.
The Investigation:
Ethel’s resolve intensifies as she embarks on a perilous quest to rescue Jesse and piece together the murders from both the past and present, all while trying to keep the FBI at arm’s length from her investigation. The murder of Tony Bagatelos, a lawyer intertwined with her previous case and friend to FBI agent CiCi Crawford, reignites the flames of suspicion and danger—the perfect storm for Ethel.
The New Threat:
As Ethel steps back into the lethal game of espionage, she must navigate a labyrinth of cracks and shadows while using every ounce of her seasoned skills. With her network of old contacts and the elements of traditional spycraft at her disposal, she deftly skirts the official police investigation, all while remaining unseen in a world bustling with peril.
Caught in a deadly game, Ethel and Jesse face a slew of sinister adversaries who will stop at nothing to retrieve the secrets that could upend their lives. Ethel’s life experiences provide her with the edge as she turns her age into an asset, utilizing the stereotypes others tactically hold against her.
A complex web of suspects:
The plot thickens with the introduction of numerous characters, including FBI Director Rudy Hauser, Senator Herman Wilkes, and various Russian villains.
Ethel’s life is a whirlwind of intrigue, humor, and danger, showcasing the resilience and dynamism of a woman who refuses to be defined by age. Get ready for an exhilarating ride alongside this dynamic duo, where adventure and excitement lie at every turn!
My thoughts...
I am absolutely enamored with this series, particularly with the empowering portrayal of women in my age group who refuse to fade into the background. In DESPERATE SPIES, Ethel is the embodiment of toughness, resilience, and razor-sharp wit, brimming with clever tricks at every twist and turn.
The narrative expertly melds the elements of a gripping spy thriller with the exhilarating pace of a high-energy caper, each page turning with purpose. Ethel's clever harnessing of her age, turning others’ underestimations into an advantage, highlights her brilliance in navigating a dangerous landscape of espionage, violence, and deceit.
Jesse is Ethel's loyal partner, providing crucial tech skills to complement her old-school investigative methods. Showcasing age is just a number when it comes to crime-solving.
Leveraging her extensive experience from years in the FBI, Ethel possesses a wealth of knowledge and connections that younger agents could only dream of having. This vast network of contacts becomes paramount as she embarks on her covert mission to save Jesse.
Ethel adeptly blends into the background, with underestimated appearances allowing her to strike swiftly from the shadows. Now liberated from the confines of the FBI’s bureaucracy and corruption, Ethel operates on her own terms, driven by a personal agenda that resists the constraints placed upon her by an ever-evolving agency.
The author's insightful note and expertise in the field add depth to the narrative, bringing authenticity and life to every twist and turn of the story.
Recommendations...
DESPERATE SPIES is a must-read for fans of the author and the Secret Lives series, as well as anyone who appreciates tales of clever septuagenarians who continue to defy expectations.
Those who enjoyed Tess Gerritsen's "The Martini Club series," Samantha Downing's "Too Old For This," Elle Cosimano's "Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave," (Mrs. Haggerty), Richard Osman’s "The Thusday Murder Club," Jesse Q. Sutanto's "Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers," Robert Thorogood's The Marlow Murder Club series, "An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good" by Helene Turstenand, Dorothy Gilman's Mrs. Pollifax series, and "Killers of a Certain Age," by Deanna Raybourn will find a thrilling and relatable experience in this extraordinary journey. Highly recommended!
Special thanks to Severn House and NetGalley for sharing an advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Nov 04, 2025
Nov Newsletter
Nov Must-Read Books
December 4, 2025
📚Desperate Spies
✍🏻Mark de Castrique
Blurb:
Badass 75-year-old retired FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater is back—stalking mobsters, dodging bullets, and pulling off Bond-worthy moves as she tracks down missing state secrets in this fun and pacy new installment in the Secret Lives mystery series
“Ethel’s adventures will appeal to fans of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series and Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age”—Library Journal Starred Review
“Ethel looks like Marple but acts like Marlowe”—Kirkus Reviews
“Plucky Ethel is an elderly Nancy Drew”—Publishers Weekly
For seventy-five-year-old former FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater, her age is nothing but an advantage when it comes to ferreting out secrets. Who's going to notice the little old woman in the corner? Besides, Ethel might be officially retired, but she knows everyone in DC law enforcement—and is smarter than all of them combined.
When a former colleague asks Ethel for help, she agrees without a second thought. But the favor throws Ethel back eighteen years, to the botched sting operation that resulted in the murder of an innocent young woman by a Russian gangster—and nearly ended Ethel’s own life too.
Soon, Ethel and her young tech-whizz sidekick Jesse, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, find themselves in the crosshairs of some very bad—and very desperate—men who’ll do anything to get their hands on the state secrets they’re seeking. Ethel will have to use all the skills she’s learned during her long career if she’s to save the day, and keep both herself and her beloved cousin alive.
My Thoughts:
The delightful spy duo of 75 year old retired FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater, and her double first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse Cooper, are back in action. We go back to Ethel's last case when a Russian gangster killed Kathy Bagatelos, whose father, Tony, was a mob lawyer, and wounded Ethel. Tony it seems, as become a confidential informant for Ethel's FBI agent friend, Cassandra “CiCi” Crawford. He asks for meeting with Ethel and tells her that there is a target on her back. Tony is killed shortly after this meeting and Jesse is kidnapped. Ethel, with some help, investigates Tony's murder.
This is such a fun series, not exactly a cozy, and not exactly a spy thriller. We are introduced to a number of new characters, good guys and bad. Mark de Castrique's writing moves the plot along at a brisk pace. Ethel's impressive skills are put to work here. She has got some stealthy moves for her age.
Thanks NetGalley, Severn House and Author Mark de Castrique for the advanced copy of "Desperate Spies" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SevernHouse
#MarkdeCastrique
#DesperateSpies
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Mark de Castrique
Blurb:
Badass 75-year-old retired FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater is back—stalking mobsters, dodging bullets, and pulling off Bond-worthy moves as she tracks down missing state secrets in this fun and pacy new installment in the Secret Lives mystery series
“Ethel’s adventures will appeal to fans of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series and Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age”—Library Journal Starred Review
“Ethel looks like Marple but acts like Marlowe”—Kirkus Reviews
“Plucky Ethel is an elderly Nancy Drew”—Publishers Weekly
For seventy-five-year-old former FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater, her age is nothing but an advantage when it comes to ferreting out secrets. Who's going to notice the little old woman in the corner? Besides, Ethel might be officially retired, but she knows everyone in DC law enforcement—and is smarter than all of them combined.
When a former colleague asks Ethel for help, she agrees without a second thought. But the favor throws Ethel back eighteen years, to the botched sting operation that resulted in the murder of an innocent young woman by a Russian gangster—and nearly ended Ethel’s own life too.
Soon, Ethel and her young tech-whizz sidekick Jesse, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, find themselves in the crosshairs of some very bad—and very desperate—men who’ll do anything to get their hands on the state secrets they’re seeking. Ethel will have to use all the skills she’s learned during her long career if she’s to save the day, and keep both herself and her beloved cousin alive.
My Thoughts:
The delightful spy duo of 75 year old retired FBI agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater, and her double first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse Cooper, are back in action. We go back to Ethel's last case when a Russian gangster killed Kathy Bagatelos, whose father, Tony, was a mob lawyer, and wounded Ethel. Tony it seems, as become a confidential informant for Ethel's FBI agent friend, Cassandra “CiCi” Crawford. He asks for meeting with Ethel and tells her that there is a target on her back. Tony is killed shortly after this meeting and Jesse is kidnapped. Ethel, with some help, investigates Tony's murder.
This is such a fun series, not exactly a cozy, and not exactly a spy thriller. We are introduced to a number of new characters, good guys and bad. Mark de Castrique's writing moves the plot along at a brisk pace. Ethel's impressive skills are put to work here. She has got some stealthy moves for her age.
Thanks NetGalley, Severn House and Author Mark de Castrique for the advanced copy of "Desperate Spies" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SevernHouse
#MarkdeCastrique
#DesperateSpies
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 8, 2025
Ethel is back! Ex-FBI agent septuagenarian Ethel Fiona Crestwater and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper return in “Desperate Spies”, the third book in the series from Mark de Castrique.
This time we get a little more backstory on Ethel’s time as an FBI agent with a flashback to an operation that went wrong and nearly got her killed. Although Ethel survived, an innocent girl was killed by a Russian mobster, and the repercussions of that operation are still felt to this day.
FBI agent CiCi Crawford, who was a part of that failed operation, has a favor to ask of Ethel – a secret informer has some information that he will only entrust to Ethel, someone who he knows is out of the FBI and therefore “clean”. The informant turns out to be Tony Bagetelos, a mob lawyer and the father of the murdered girl from 18 years ago. He has some information about the selling of US industrial secrets to a hostile government, as well as a warning to Ethel about the release from prison of the Russian gangster who may be bent on revenge. Before Ethel even has the opportunity to act on this information, Tony is killed in the parking garage right after their clandestine meeting.
And off we go! Russian gangsters, mob bosses, an elder senator suffering from dementia, Russian spies, Chinese spies, bribery and corruption, political posturing and spilling secrets, cybercriminals chasing each other across the dark web, all in a days work for Ethel and her army, led by FBI Director Rudy Hauser and Detective Lt Frank Mancini of the Arlington Police Dept. Things take a much darker turn when Jesse is kidnapped, now Ethel is running out of time as she tries to outwit multiple enemies, protect our country’s secrets, and save her only living relative.
Like the previous two chapters, this is a somewhat-cozy murder mystery with some unexpected protagonists. My only concern is that Ethel is becoming a little bit too much of a superman, outwitting everyone and bending every person she comes into contact with to her will, from FBI directors to DoD generals. It would be nice if she could be a little more human, a little more fallible.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Severn House via NetGalley. Thank you!
This time we get a little more backstory on Ethel’s time as an FBI agent with a flashback to an operation that went wrong and nearly got her killed. Although Ethel survived, an innocent girl was killed by a Russian mobster, and the repercussions of that operation are still felt to this day.
FBI agent CiCi Crawford, who was a part of that failed operation, has a favor to ask of Ethel – a secret informer has some information that he will only entrust to Ethel, someone who he knows is out of the FBI and therefore “clean”. The informant turns out to be Tony Bagetelos, a mob lawyer and the father of the murdered girl from 18 years ago. He has some information about the selling of US industrial secrets to a hostile government, as well as a warning to Ethel about the release from prison of the Russian gangster who may be bent on revenge. Before Ethel even has the opportunity to act on this information, Tony is killed in the parking garage right after their clandestine meeting.
And off we go! Russian gangsters, mob bosses, an elder senator suffering from dementia, Russian spies, Chinese spies, bribery and corruption, political posturing and spilling secrets, cybercriminals chasing each other across the dark web, all in a days work for Ethel and her army, led by FBI Director Rudy Hauser and Detective Lt Frank Mancini of the Arlington Police Dept. Things take a much darker turn when Jesse is kidnapped, now Ethel is running out of time as she tries to outwit multiple enemies, protect our country’s secrets, and save her only living relative.
Like the previous two chapters, this is a somewhat-cozy murder mystery with some unexpected protagonists. My only concern is that Ethel is becoming a little bit too much of a superman, outwitting everyone and bending every person she comes into contact with to her will, from FBI directors to DoD generals. It would be nice if she could be a little more human, a little more fallible.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Severn House via NetGalley. Thank you!
August 15, 2025
Desperate Spies by Mark de Castrique is the third in the Secret Lives series featuring retired bad-ass FBI agent Ethel Crestwater. Ethel is 75 years old and still active in fight crime with her sidekick and renter, Jesse, who is college age. Ethel uses her age to sneak about since everyone underestimates older people, especially women. And Ethel knows everyone in law enforcement, and all of them think she is the ultimate in solving problems.
In Desperate Spies a former FBI colleague asks Ethel for help, and she gets herself and Jesse involved in the selling of state secrets. There is the mob, US Senators and staff, police from every branch of government and Ethel, all tangled up in a mess of a conspiracy.
I have read Mark de Castrique’s Sam Blackman series before and liked it. So, I decided to try this series about an older woman – it seems everyone is trying to get in on the Thursday Murder Club mystery sensation by starring an older woman who catches the crooks.
I do like Ethel; she is a bad-ass. Probably too much of one. Many of the scenes are not believable. And while reality is not actually the goal with this new sub-genre of “Older Women Mysteries,” I do think that there must be some degree of authenticity with the older characters. I didn’t mind Ethel being so smart and figuring out all the clues – but I did object to all the law enforcement people expecting her to do so and applauding her every other page. The truth is I am not a cozy mystery lover, so that explains part of my concern.
I also have a pet peeve which is important in all mysteries but failed here. Instead of showing us the characters in action, the author instead told us in dialogue about the action. Almost all of this book is dialogue telling us what happened or is going to happen. I will probably check the other books in the series to see if that is the case for all of them. The concept was fun, but the delivery left me wanting more action in the writing.
My rating: 3 of 5
This ARC title was provided by Netgalley.com at no cost, and I am providing an unbiased review. Desperate Spies will be published on November 4, 2025.
In Desperate Spies a former FBI colleague asks Ethel for help, and she gets herself and Jesse involved in the selling of state secrets. There is the mob, US Senators and staff, police from every branch of government and Ethel, all tangled up in a mess of a conspiracy.
I have read Mark de Castrique’s Sam Blackman series before and liked it. So, I decided to try this series about an older woman – it seems everyone is trying to get in on the Thursday Murder Club mystery sensation by starring an older woman who catches the crooks.
I do like Ethel; she is a bad-ass. Probably too much of one. Many of the scenes are not believable. And while reality is not actually the goal with this new sub-genre of “Older Women Mysteries,” I do think that there must be some degree of authenticity with the older characters. I didn’t mind Ethel being so smart and figuring out all the clues – but I did object to all the law enforcement people expecting her to do so and applauding her every other page. The truth is I am not a cozy mystery lover, so that explains part of my concern.
I also have a pet peeve which is important in all mysteries but failed here. Instead of showing us the characters in action, the author instead told us in dialogue about the action. Almost all of this book is dialogue telling us what happened or is going to happen. I will probably check the other books in the series to see if that is the case for all of them. The concept was fun, but the delivery left me wanting more action in the writing.
My rating: 3 of 5
This ARC title was provided by Netgalley.com at no cost, and I am providing an unbiased review. Desperate Spies will be published on November 4, 2025.
December 27, 2025
Consistently well-plotted with continuing stellar CH development with a mix of jeopardy and humor in the Tone, this 3rd in a series follows the last two (See my review on 2022’s Secret Lives and 2023’s Desperate Women for more in my reviews.) which introduced us to a cast of excellent lawmen/women in DC, especially the amazing Ethel Fiona Crestwater, ex FBI agent who has not let her retirement or her age stop her from getting involved in national intrigue and murder. Ethel’s past puts her in mortal jeopardy as she goes under the grid to solve who killed a lawyer with Mafia ties who reached out to her about some governmental espionage. Like the first two in the series, this novel gives us a propelling sustained Pace, intricate Plot, varying Tone from contemplative to harrowing, and a well-realized Setting in suburban DC , Richmond, VA, and the Chesapeake Bay area. Again, procedural details enhance an already twisty, red-herring-laden plot as dialogue makes the pages turn. de Castrique gives us detailed metropolitan DC police, the FBI and other US security departments involvement, as well as some Congressional inner workings. And, again, it is rare to find a realistic implausible plot so well executed. Ethel’s septuagenarian flying buddies make more than an appearance, as does Jesse’s tech savvy girlfriend. Computer chip technology and governmental espionage, dementia, and the fascinating history of WWII’s Operation Underworld (Mafia aids US to keep US Safe.) also contribute to theme and Plot points. There is even a whiff of an unlikely Romance by the books end. RED FLAGS: Graphic Violence. If you enjoy older protagonists (Osman or Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age) who still have their wits and abilities about them, or a combination of interagency intrigue like Otto Eskin’s thrillers, then give this series a try. I encourage you to begin with the first for CH continuity.
November 13, 2025
I have read every book in this series and highly recommend that you start with the first book to learn about the characters, especially seventy-five-year-old retired FBI Agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater. She rents rooms in her home to men and women who plan a career in law enforcement. Some of her previous renters and friends are now high-level administrators in the FBI, CIA and DIA. Earlier in her career, Ethel shot and killed a criminal who killed a young woman, the daughter of a member of a crime family. The man’s brother is now out of prison and plans on evening the score with her. Now, it seems as if that case is coming back to haunt her and others. There is concern that someone using the dark web is seeking information about highly protected computer intel. When a meeting with Ethel ends with a murder, she begins her own investigation. Jesse Cooper, her second cousin twice removed, has been living with and assisting Ethel in her previous investigations, along with her many friends from law enforcement and former military. A phone call from a high -level Russian, moves the case to an even higher threat level. When Jesse is threatened, they have no idea what they have unleashed by threatening him. Ethel’s immense sources of intel and her many contacts and friends acquired from her years of service, will not rest until Jesse is safe and a murderer is caught and justice served. Absolutely fascinating! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
November 3, 2025
This third in the series-and to be honest, it helps to have read the first two books- sees Ethel, long retired from but still involved with the FBI wade deep into espionage, the mob and quantum computing. She was in the middle of a failed arrest of a Russian bad guy 18 years ago, a man who during the effort turned and shot the college student daughter of Tony Bagetelos, an attorney for the mob (including his brother and a Senator). So now when he becomes aware that there's a threat to Ethel, he steps up to inform her except that someone kills him in the parking lot of a shopping mall, where he's found by Ethel's nephew Jesse. Know that this gets really complicated with regard to quantum computing and that the murder in the parking lot is only the tip of an iceberg that includes a sting by the FBI that goes a bit sideways. Some of this made me laugh (how Ethel gets rid of the Russian following her) and other parts had me scratching my head. All together though, I'm a fan of these characters, especially Ethel but also Frank and Rudy. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A very good read. I'm looking forward to the next adventure.
December 25, 2025
As is my practice, I read some of the reviews before writing my own. Uniformly, they are favorable but many do admit that they received complimentary copies in return for a positiive review. Others say that you should attempt to read book 3 without the back stories from books 1 and 2. Well, I did not recieve an advanced copy and I did not read books 1 and 2, so you may discount my review. I felt I was reading a comic book. Each character was black or white, not a gray among them. Loving girl friend, hard-bitten old cop, above the fray FBI director, 75 year old wonder woman whose instincts and and powers conquer all even without a magic bracelet, 80 year old veterans who fly and are capable of aeronautic heroics, straight out of the Godfather mafia don, fearsome Russian tough guy, demented underling, Spiderman-like second story man, old woman friend of the 75 year old wonder woman who is still an FBI agent, senile senator, young woman aide who is in love with the villain. No cliche goes unwritten from "vengance is best served cold" to "an offer you cannot refuse." Give me a break Goodreads.
October 31, 2026
Desperate Spies is the third book in the Secret Lives mystery series by Mark de Castrique and all I can say is that this series hasn’t lost its punch. Once again, the author has produced a well-written, well-plotted story with a great premise and outstanding characters.
This time 75-year-old Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a retired FBI agent, her twenty- something double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, and a cadre of law enforcement friends, and mafioso bad guys are involved in international espionage. It even looks like the bad actors might win, but they don’t take into account that Ethel is involved and, for her, it’s personal.
I really enjoyed this book and, in particular, the characters. The friendships that have been forged over the years, their camaraderie, and the loyalties they have for each other help make this book a great read. It deserves 4.5 stars. This is definitely an author I will read again and again. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
This time 75-year-old Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a retired FBI agent, her twenty- something double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, and a cadre of law enforcement friends, and mafioso bad guys are involved in international espionage. It even looks like the bad actors might win, but they don’t take into account that Ethel is involved and, for her, it’s personal.
I really enjoyed this book and, in particular, the characters. The friendships that have been forged over the years, their camaraderie, and the loyalties they have for each other help make this book a great read. It deserves 4.5 stars. This is definitely an author I will read again and again. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
September 1, 2025
If you enjoy a fast, smart read, featuring a "retired" protagonist in her seventies with a prior career in law enforcement and the ability to solve complex crimes better than state and federal authorities, Desperate Spies is for you. This is the third installment in this series, and while the first two book establish well the believability of protagonist Ethel's skill set, this book puts her skills into action full force, causing the pages to turn themselves. Mark de Castrique is an experienced writer who keeps the action moving, wasting few words, and honoring the fact readers are smart and will keep up. To get the full emotional benefit of Ethel's relationships with her law enforcement friends and her second cousin twice removed, I recommend reading these books in order. I have enjoyed all three books. More please!
September 16, 2025
3.75 stars
Ethel and crew are back. She may be 75 but she is as effective as ever at investigation and intimidation. Ethel is ex FBI and has most of the Washington law enforcement powerful on her speed dial. She runs a boarding house that caters to FBI and cop types, including her distant relation Jesse.
The story begins with a prologue set 18 years ago involving Ethel as a young agent who shoots a suspect who has just killed a young woman. Both the woman's father and the suspect's brother are seeking revenge. The plot involves complex technology, the Chinese and the Russian mob, the Mafia, and enough alphabet Washington agencies to fill a dictionary. There are schemes and counterplots galore. The action never slows as the threat becomes real and Ethel's world is threatened. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ethel and crew are back. She may be 75 but she is as effective as ever at investigation and intimidation. Ethel is ex FBI and has most of the Washington law enforcement powerful on her speed dial. She runs a boarding house that caters to FBI and cop types, including her distant relation Jesse.
The story begins with a prologue set 18 years ago involving Ethel as a young agent who shoots a suspect who has just killed a young woman. Both the woman's father and the suspect's brother are seeking revenge. The plot involves complex technology, the Chinese and the Russian mob, the Mafia, and enough alphabet Washington agencies to fill a dictionary. There are schemes and counterplots galore. The action never slows as the threat becomes real and Ethel's world is threatened. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 25, 2025
This was my first read of the Ethel Fiona Crestwater series and I enjoyed this mystery featuring an older protagonist. Her time spent ‘around the block’ has equipped her with wisdom, contacts, and connections that prove invaluable to her ability to solve this case. However, there is a lot going on with a cast of characters from various walks of life–her tenant/distant relative, his tech savvy girlfriend, local law enforcement, the FBI, a Senator, his staffers, federal intelligence, Russian oligarchs, and the local mob. I may have skimmed some parts, but all in all thought it was a decent read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2025
This is the third book in the Secret Lives series by Mark de Castrique and though it was a very interesting and well written story it wasn’t quite as brilliant as its predecessors.
The protagonist was once again septuagenarian Ethel Clearwater and her much younger ‘second-second cousin twice removed’ Jesse. This time the plot revolved around proprietary technology, quantum computing and espionage and honestly I think this is where the problem lay. Mark de Castrique did a great job but the subject matter really slowed down the pacing of the story.
I would certainly recommend this to anyone looking for a well written crime novel that will keep you engaged to the end.
*** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher ***
The protagonist was once again septuagenarian Ethel Clearwater and her much younger ‘second-second cousin twice removed’ Jesse. This time the plot revolved around proprietary technology, quantum computing and espionage and honestly I think this is where the problem lay. Mark de Castrique did a great job but the subject matter really slowed down the pacing of the story.
I would certainly recommend this to anyone looking for a well written crime novel that will keep you engaged to the end.
*** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher ***
August 14, 2025
A seventy-five-year-old former FBI agent, Ethel Fiona Crestwater, is the star of the book. She can command the Directors of multiple federal agencies and police departments, dictate what information is being shared and break the law without any consequences. She performs the perfect night flight without any prior training and bounces back after being shot without an issue.
The truth is that the main character is unrealistic, and the others are not developed enough to offer anything to the story.
The book had an uneven pacing; some parts of the story were moving super fast, while others were enriched with tons of details while made it hard to enjoy.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The truth is that the main character is unrealistic, and the others are not developed enough to offer anything to the story.
The book had an uneven pacing; some parts of the story were moving super fast, while others were enriched with tons of details while made it hard to enjoy.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2025
Desperate Spies by Mark De Castrique is the third book in the Secret Lies Mystery series.
Ethel Crestwater is a 75-year-old ‘retired’ FBI agent. Someone from her past asked her for help and it connected to a mission from her past. Ethel and her double-first cousin-twice-removed find there is more to the story.
There is a lot of action and for a 75-year-old, Ethel is on the ball.
She receives assistance from her long-time friends. I liked the story and if you like stories that include the smart older crowd, this one is for you. I did think reading the first two in the series helped with the enjoyment of this book
Ethel Crestwater is a 75-year-old ‘retired’ FBI agent. Someone from her past asked her for help and it connected to a mission from her past. Ethel and her double-first cousin-twice-removed find there is more to the story.
There is a lot of action and for a 75-year-old, Ethel is on the ball.
She receives assistance from her long-time friends. I liked the story and if you like stories that include the smart older crowd, this one is for you. I did think reading the first two in the series helped with the enjoyment of this book
November 6, 2025
Retired FBI agent 75 yr old Ethel Crestwater is back Jessica Fletcher style and brought into a mystery involving mobsters, spies and state secrets. They are all connected, and once she gets involved she brings all her numerous contacts (FBI Dir/Arlington Detective/FBI Agents/octogenarian badass fliers) and her one remaining relative Jesse into the mix.
As she gets further involved, both her & Jesse's lives are in danger, he is kidnapped and she needs to outwit the two factions involved in the case.
It's a fast read, great that a 75 yr old can still outwit the bad guys with a little help from her friends.
As she gets further involved, both her & Jesse's lives are in danger, he is kidnapped and she needs to outwit the two factions involved in the case.
It's a fast read, great that a 75 yr old can still outwit the bad guys with a little help from her friends.
August 19, 2025
I love this series and was anxiously awaiting a new installment so very grateful for the ARC!
Ethel & her army are back and are thrown into another international conspiracy. While the subject matter of this one wasn't my favorite mystery (quantum computers really go far above my head) the cast of characters more than made up for where my intellect had gaps.
Fans of the Thursday Murder Club should definitely be reading this series as well! Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher the copy in exchange for my honest review.
Ethel & her army are back and are thrown into another international conspiracy. While the subject matter of this one wasn't my favorite mystery (quantum computers really go far above my head) the cast of characters more than made up for where my intellect had gaps.
Fans of the Thursday Murder Club should definitely be reading this series as well! Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher the copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 29, 2025
Ethel is an inspiration.
I love this series and anxiously awaited this new installment. It did not disappoint. Ethel was her usual sassy and competent self. Reading about someone my age who takes on villains to save her loved ones and the world is so inspiring. Please keep the stories of Ethel's exploits coming.
I love this series and anxiously awaited this new installment. It did not disappoint. Ethel was her usual sassy and competent self. Reading about someone my age who takes on villains to save her loved ones and the world is so inspiring. Please keep the stories of Ethel's exploits coming.
April 28, 2026
this whole series has been a really good read. I love that a 70's-something woman is out-smarting a homicide detective, the head of the FBI, the Director of National Intelligence, and, of course, the bad guys. and her flying in company of the UFO's - United Flying Octogenarians - that's just a bonus..
September 13, 2025
Not bad but it was great either. There was nothing particularly unique about this story and it ended just about how you would expect it to. Everything followed a stereotypical pattern. Wished there had been more twists and turn thatI didn’t see coming.
January 7, 2026
I received a copy of this book as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ethel Fiona Crestwater is goals. Do (young) people still say that? She's feisty and formidable and pretty spry for seventy-five. This book was engaging and suspenseful and just a really great read.
Ethel Fiona Crestwater is goals. Do (young) people still say that? She's feisty and formidable and pretty spry for seventy-five. This book was engaging and suspenseful and just a really great read.
September 7, 2026
Again, another great Ethel Crestwater tale, full of well detailed true to life complicated secrets and espionage with Ethel's endless grit and charm! At some point, the mystery felt lost to me though and a little confusing.
September 26, 2026
I think that this might have been better if I had read the other books in the series. That said, it is a fun, fairly fast paced read. It has a good diversity in its main characters and I really enjoyed Ethel, the elderly former spy.
Thanks to Netgalley, publisher and author for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley, publisher and author for the ARC.
September 14, 2025
An excellent read reminiscent of the Kinsey Millhone series. Ethel is a badass and her adventures are wild and addictive to read!
October 21, 2025
fun, fast, tense, and unique read with a great set of characters and an absolutely fantastic plot. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
December 7, 2025
I'll read about Ethel forever if de Castrique is willing to keep going - she is by far the most engrossing character which means everyone, even Jesse, falls away a bit into the background.
December 19, 2025
3.5 Stars
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