To Outwit Them All

by Peggy Wirgau

“Into the Lions’ den I go…”

Betty Floyd’s uncle risked his life when he signed the Declaration of Independence, yet she is the epitome of British loyalty and social grace in 1779. Attempting to ignore the war, she attends New York’s balls and soirees with the Crown’s officers, but the city is a dangerous place for someone with Patriot ties. When a soldier she has befriended is murdered at a British prison, Betty is driven to choose sides and join General Washington’s covert spy group, the Culper Ring.

Her social calendar provides the perfect backdrop to dance with the enemy, and she catches the eye of the charming Major John André, Britain’s Director of Intelligence. Garnering timely information for the Patriots becomes a never-ending balancing act, amid heightened collision between duty to her country and deepening feelings for André. When the slightest misstep could expose her and the entire Ring, a traitorous plot conducted by Benedict Arnold unfolds, and Betty is led to the very brink of death. Will she outwit the enemy, or will her flirtations with danger cost her everything?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Romance

362 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 14, 2025

Reviews

[Selene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is phenomenal! Betty is such a relatable character and although brave you can feel her angst. The romance between her and Andre felt natural and you can feel how torn that makes her. I was a huge fan of Turn on AMC and when I saw this book covered that from the woman spy’s pov I knew i absolutely had to read it. Knowing the history and how it would end didn’t prevent this from emotionally wrecking me. The author did an excellent job making this story come to live and leaving her own touch on American history. Thanks to netgalley, the author and the publisher for the advanced copy.

[Brook Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful surprise! I happen to adore American history and the Culper Ring is one of our most fascinating historical topics. Wirgau did an outstanding job at depicting Betty Floyd’s possible involvement as 355.

Betty is repelled by an event at a Tory prison, where captive Continental prisoners are abused and treated terribly. This begins her own journey of becoming a patriot. When the opportunity arises for her to serve in a unique way and provide General Washington with pertinent intelligence, her heart goes to war with her mind, for she becomes involved with New York’s favorite British officer, John Andre’. This affair leads her down a dangerous path that culminates with life-threatening circumstances.

Wirgau’s portrayals are sound and sure. She hits the bulls-eye for women’s fiction and takes care not to turn this work into a political statement. This novel is written realistically yet tastefully, and is a reminder of how torn one’s sentiments could be during the Revolutionary War. If you loved your neighbors, and yet you were a Patriot and they were Tories? It’s not unlike problems America faces today, making this story timely and an important discussion piece.

Bravo to Peggy Wirgau for recreating NYC in the 1780’s as though she had lived there herself. Five Revolutionary stars!

[Shyames · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love when historical fiction revolves around real people, but with a slight twist of trying to fill the gaps with what we don't know about these times. This journey through the American-British war was amazing and heartbreaking. It was my first book written by Peggy Wirgau, but I will definitely reach out for more.

"To Outwit Them All" follows Betty Floyd, thrown into the world of espionage in New York for the American side, while heavily associating with the British forces in the city. While we follow Betty's efforts to gather intelligence and make herself useful for Washington and his cause, the stakes are getting higher and higher. For our heroine personally, she tries to do her best, but we are all human and our feelings often become intertwined with our lives whenever we least expect it - as it's a case here, with the dear Major Andre.

Betty is a relatable character, thrown into something she wasn't trained for, the inner goings of the job are hardly explained to her because there simply isn't time or occasion to do so, but she still goes all in. While at times I got annoyed at her naïveness (ehm, ehm, Celeste!), that has to be expected in her situation and taking into consideration her lack of military or espionage-related experience.

On the romance side - while I enjoyed it and knew how the story will go, since Major Andre's character is based on real life, it did feel slightly lacking in depth. But that's not to say it's still not an amazing story otherwise.

This is a beautifully crafted novel, easy to follow and hard to set aside once you start. Peggy's writing makes you feel immersed at all stages and doesn't let go until the very last page.

Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an excellent story of the Revolutionary War Era! This is my first book by Peggy Wirgau, and it won't be my last. This is a perfect page-turner with fast-paced suspense, romance, intrigue, and a great storyline! I learned about the Culper Ring and how ordinary people took part in the War. The story is about Betty as the main character.... following her life as she makes choices in difficult situations. she shows great character and courage. I thought I knew a lot about the Revolutionary War, but this book made me want to go study it a little more. I definitely recommend this book if you like historical fiction, suspense, and romance.
I was given a complimentary ebook copy of this book, received from JustRead Tours and Peggy Wirgau. All thoughts and views here are my own opinions.

[Lizzie Randazzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book! From the very first chapter, it pulled me right in. I finished the whole book in just 3 days because I couldn’t put it down! I’ve read a lot of historical fiction and this story felt fresh and suspenseful. I learned so much about the Culper Ring and the incredible risks ordinary people, especially women, took during the Revolutionary War. The author does such a good job weaving real history into a story in a way that feels alive and personal. You can tell she did her research, but it never feels heavy or textbook-like.

Betty was such a memorable main character. She’s smart, brave, and grounded, and I loved how she found her own ways to make a difference. There’s some romance that was fun to watch unfold, but it never overshadows the story. It’s more about her courage, intuition, and strength in impossible circumstances. I found myself rooting for her the whole way through.

The writing is vivid and fast-paced, and the twists kept me guessing until the end. It’s the kind of story that makes you want to go look up the real history afterward… which I definitely did as soon I finished the book. If you love historical fiction with secret messages, danger, and a strong lead character you can’t help but admire, this one is definitely worth picking up!

[Rosalyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading that book blurb convinced me to give this book a try, in spite of never hearing about this author before.

I found this to be informative and entertaining.

What did I enjoy most? The characters! Betty is a lovely heroine, and I really enjoyed meeting, and getting to know her! She considered herself to be a bit of a societal outcast, but did not let that stop her from doing her part for the war effort.

Betty had considered herself to be loyal to the British until something happens that totally unsettles her. Suddenly, she finds herself given the opportunity to help the Rebels. And thus, spy number 355 is born. (or could have been :) )

Full of danger, intrigue, and war, this book has lots going on.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Adrianna | cozycraftyreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great historical fiction. Set during the Revolutionary War, in the late 1700s, it provided an intriguing story that caught my attention.

Really, from the first page I was hooked. The author’s writing pulled me in and I was completely invested in the story.

The author did a fabulous job at taking time in history and forming a story surrounding it. She was able to share sentiments of both sides of people living in America, as well as those of the King’s soldiers. She took parts of history and helped them jump off the pages, and made events more familiar.

I appreciated having Betty’s point of view, especially from a spying perspective. I wasn’t as familiar with the Culper Spy Ring, or the 355 (the female spy ring). This book helped show a unique view of a female spy during the war, and I was all for it. I learned much, and Betty was such a reliable narrator.

And the romance? I don’t want to spoil it, but I really enjoyed having this aspect too on top of the spying and historical events during this heavy time.

Overall, a great novel for historical fiction fans! Definitely one I’d recommend!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from JustRead Tours and Peggy Wirgau. However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really interesting read! It’s a very well written look at a woman who could’ve been agent 355 during the Revolutionary War. The author does an excellent job at portraying the emotions that Betty deals with during the story. The struggles that Betty has in wanting to help the Patriots while having feelings for the man she’s spying on, seemed very natural and really added a good layer to the story. There are definitely a couple of nice twists towards the end of the read that I was not expecting that also added to my overall enjoyment of the story. There are definitely hard and sad moments but the story was really good! I don’t read a ton of books set during this time but I enjoyed this one.

I received a copy of this book through JustRead and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been a while since I enjoy a novel set against the backdrop of revolutionary America so I was super excited to come across this book. I will say I enjoyed. It because it provided a lot of information on the American Revolution and the trials that some of the characters faced as the book went on were very interesting.

We are introduced to Betty Floyd whose uncle is for the patriot cause but she still attends the high society balls which are sponsored by the British crown. However, unknown to the crown she is actually a spy. As time goes on she starts to wonder if her work is truly worth it.

I will say that this book was an eye opener and showed how valuable some of the unsung heros of the Revolution.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher all opinions are of my own.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgau is a phenomenal book—and a must-read for fans of historical fiction. Meticulously researched, this novel provides readers with a glimpse into a possible history of 355, the Culper Ring’s “lady,” during the American War for Independence.

The book tells the tale of Betty Floyd, niece of William Floyd (signer of the Declaration of Independence), and cousin of Robert Townsend (“Samuel Culper, Jr.” of the Culper Ring). Invited to many of New York’s finest balls and soirees, Betty often finds herself socializing with British officers, which provides her with the perfect opportunity to covertly gather information that may be of use to General George Washington. And after catching the eye of Major John André, the British Director of Intelligence, she is uniquely positioned to help turn the tides of war.

As a former history teacher, I always appreciate well-written historical fiction, and this novel certainly does not disappoint! The many historical details seamlessly woven into this book immerse the reader in the daily life of a woman living in New York under British occupation. Wirgau, especially, does an exceptional job capturing the tension that many Americans—not just Betty Floyd—must have felt as family and friends, neighbors and acquaintances took sides during the Revolutionary War period.

Some of my favorite quotes include:

“And often, small tasks done well lead to big differences. . . . take courage . . . . do not allow fear to hinder you.”

“Regardless of my weaknesses, I was worthy. And quite possibly, as he had stated, extraordinary. It was about time I proved it.”

“They cannot take everything from us, you know. Our right to think for ourselves, to pray, to love, to discern right from wrong—they cannot take that unless we let them.”

One major theme in To Outwit Them All is being of service to others, particularly using one’s gifts, talents, and position to help others. Another is being willing to do a hard or risky thing simply because it is the right thing to do and one has the ability to do something about it.

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical fiction lovers, prepare yourselves this one’s got danger, espionage, romance, and enough tension to keep you reading late into the night!

Betty Floyd might seem like the picture of British loyalty in 1779 New York attending glittering balls, charming officers, and playing the part of a loyal subject but beneath the gowns and candlelight, she’s hiding far more. When tragedy strikes, Betty is drawn into the world of espionage and the legendary Culper Ring, suddenly using her social calendar as a cover to gather intelligence for the Patriots.

The drama intensifies when she captures the attention of Major John André, Britain’s charismatic Director of Intelligence. Their connection is equal parts fascinating and dangerous, as Betty must constantly weigh her growing feelings against her duty to the Revolution. And just when you think the stakes can’t get higher, Benedict Arnold’s treachery explodes across the page, pulling Betty straight into the lion’s den.

Wirgau blends romance, suspense, and meticulous historical detail to create a heroine who’s both believable and unforgettable. Betty isn’t a flawless patriot or reckless thrill-seeker; she's a young woman caught between love and loyalty, family honor and personal courage. That’s what makes her story so compelling!

If you enjoy novels where history comes alive through the eyes of bold, complicated women, To Outwit Them All delivers intrigue, heart, and plenty of gasp-worthy moments!

⚡️Thank you Books Forward PR and Author Peggy Wirgau for sharing this book with me!

[Cayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. For as long as I can remember, I have loved American history. The colonial period is a very interesting era as I've often wondered about the Culper ring and how they managed to aid General Washington and his army. We may never know who 355 is, but it's interesting to speculate the possibilities as the author did here.

Betty Floyd is very intelligent. She's very human--she makes mistakes along the way. Unintentional mistakes, yes, but it's part of her "growing pains" as she tries to prove her worth to her cousin and his ring.

Major John Andre sounds very intriguing and very charming. He's very focused on his job, but he doesn't turn down a chance to be a charming host. He's very social and he enjoys the attention from the ladies.

I cannot imagine the pressure that 355 must have felt to be in Andre's inner circle and trying very hard NOT to screw up. It takes a great deal of faith in God, a great deal of love for one's country, and the desire to do the right thing even if it costs you your friends.

Excellent writing. I look forward to the next book!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Outwit Them All is the first book I have read written by Peggy Wirgau. This book had me sucked in from the very beginning. It is based on General Washington’s spy group, the Culper Ring. I have heard about it before, but I loved being able to immerse myself during the American Revolution. With real-life historical characters woven into this story, it made for a great read. I enjoyed learning some history. During this period of history, this story had me wondering what side I would be on. It would definitely be hard to stand your ground in such a situation. Thinking about the different things people endured during this time was heartbreaking. The description of the prison and the prison ship was so sad. I felt like I was on the ship with Betty.

Betty was an interesting character. Her heart was in the right place, trying to help those in need, but sometimes the heart has other plans. While trying to find out information to pass on, she started to have feelings for Major John André, Britain’s Director of Intelligence. Torn between helping her country and her feelings for André, there was an inner battle, especially at the end.   

To Outwit Them All did include some faith elements-mentions of prayer, going to church, etc, it was not a focal point in this story.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author.  A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Barb Hegreberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Outwit Them All contains maps, sketches, and portraits of some of the key players in the Revolutionary War and signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Although we do not know the real name of the Culper Ring Spy #355, history records the things she did as one of the first American spies.

The story drew me in from the first page and kept my interest until the very end.

I received this book free from the author, publisher, or other source. My only obligation is to provide a fair and honest review.

[Susan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an interesting historical fiction on many levels. During the Revolutionary War the outcome was anything but certain. And like any conflict, the side with the best information had an advantage. Men were the key figures as this was the way society was structured but the best spies are the ones who are least suspected. Women were not often at the forefront. There was one whose insights were very instrumental and there is good reason to suspect Betty Floyd was the person who has never been identified. Her story is compelling as is the story of John Andre. As it turns out, a friend has been researching Andre for years and so the story had an added spark for me.

Whether the relationship between Betty and John was as written or whether it is simply literary license, it is still a good story even though certain things that happened were not a surprise. The book kept me enthralled especially as Betty experiences some very frightening treatment. I liked that it did not vilify either side although there were villains to be found. It was a reasonably fair telling. Four purrs and two paws up.

[Nel · Rating 4 out of 5]

It truly takes a remarkable woman to step up and take action when danger looms, and that’s exactly who Agent 355 was - the only female member of the legendary Culper Spy Ring. In her captivating reimagining, Peggy Wirgau brings us the story through the eyes of Betty Floyd, aka 355.

The novel propels readers into the New York social scene at the height of the American Revolutionary War, and grabs hold of the reader's attention from the beginning.

The character development was excellent, and I really loved Betty's character. I felt her hesitation and uncertainty as if it were my own when she was thrown into the world of resistance. A core part of the story dealt with her indecision as she grappled with whether she was ready or even willing to make the tough decisions that could change the course of history.

Overall, this is a fantastic historical fiction read for anyone fascinated by the American Revolution and the sacrifices it involved. It was the perfect pick to wrap up on #nokings day!

Many thanks to partner, Books Forward for this gifted review copy!

To check out more of my reviews, please check out my blog at www.mamasgottaread.blogspot.com or follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamasgottaread!

[Country Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgau is a historical fiction based on a female spy in the late 1700's. The book was written off a real person in history and involves our MC named Betty. The story is told from a female spy's pov and is based off how a woman would feel, see, and perceive. Betty is our spy working on the American side of the spies during the American and British War. Betty is a completely relatable MC and she goes all in on her new job. I loved that about her! The story is engaging and the romance between Betty and Major Andre is adorable and you can't help but root for these two to get together. I would love to read more by this author they really know the material!

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

It’s been awhile since I’ve picked up a book set in Colonial America during the Revolutionary War. I’ve heard of Lady 355 in the Culper Ring and have read about her before. This was an interesting read supposing she was Betty Floyd. I appreciated the historical aspects and recognizing names and places we know from history to learn more about this time period and these events. Sometimes I felt like we got lost in the weeds of regency type details of who was sitting where at an event, the details of clothing and dresses, and more. Parts of this book focused on the spy aspect, but it was more like a few sentences here and there rather than a heavy presence. In between the society gatherings and family life, we got some pieces of wartime feelings and romance. This was a good intro read for this time period for someone who just wants a cozier read without things being too heavily focused on any one aspect. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.

I received a complimentary copy of this book via Just Read Tours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is a masterpiece of meticulous research, weaving historical facts into a captivating narrative that ignited my curiosity and enthusiasm. I was thrilled to discover new insights and appreciated the inclusion of photographs and drawings, which added a delightful visual dimension. The author's bold portrayal of bravery and espionage was truly inspiring, and the incorporation of the biblical story of Esther added depth and resonance. I found myself drawn to Betty Floyd's relatable struggles with her foot deformity, and the vivid descriptions of ballroom dances and settings were a treat. Even the smallest details, like the endearing three-pawed cat, contributed to the narrative's charm. While some sections delved deep into everyday life, the author's notes and cited resources were invaluable, and the book's elegant design made it a joy to read. The stunning cover was the perfect finishing touch.

[Julie Ditton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Peggy Wirgau has crafted a captivating historical fiction that will keep entertain and enlighten the reader. The author spins a tale about a woman who many experts believe may have been the elusive lady in the Washington's Culper Ring spy network known only as 335. Betty Floyd's uncle may have signed the declaration of Independence, but she was a loyalist socialite who often mixed with British military elite. Assuming that Betty was the elusive spy who managed to provide important information for General Washington, Wirgau fills in the blanks and writes both a story of a woman who becomes a spy but is torn by her growing affection for the very man who she is the British spy master.

The author leads the reader from Betty's loyalist beginnings to the events which cause her to change sides and on through her attempts to learn important information. Betty is an empathetic character, brave yet naive. I loved watching her battle her heart with her politics. Not being a student of history beyond my school days, I knew nothing of the Culper Ring or most of the people portrayed. Therefore, I could enjoy this story fully with almost no spoiler in the plot line. A few history aficionados have mentioned in their reviews that Wirgau's writing kept them riveted despite knowing what will happen.

I received an advance reading copy from Books Forward PR and the publisher. However this review is voluntary and I can honestly recommend this novel to anyone who loves historical fiction. I loved this book and look forward to reading her other novel The Stars in April, a historical fiction about 12 year old Titanic survivor, Ruth Becker.

Look for my blog post with more information about this book as well as my review in October on my storybooklady.net book blog.

[Stephanie - Books Less Travelled · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very beginning I could tell this story was going to be something special. It didn't take long for me to be fully immersed in Betty's world. A world of danger and intrigue around every corner. This was made all the more enjoyable due to Betty's delightfully plucky personality and her reluctance to even take part in this world of secrets and traitored she finds herself surrounded with. I think perhaps her unaffected approach to it all was exactly what makes her so good at it! Oh, and Andre! I loved seeing the dynamic between them, and the banter was the cherry on top! Perfection! I loved the diverse cast in this story with the wide range of personalities and backgrounds, but a few stood out. Celeste and Alice were two others that I really enjoyed meeting. The story is wonderfully written, and I found myself devouring it, unable to put it down!

*I received an ecopy from the publisher. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Betty Floyd lives modestly in 1779 New York as the war rages close to home. Betty's uncle, WIlliam Floyd, was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. However, the city is filled with Loyalists, so Betty mostly stays under the radar with the exception of bringing food to prisoners with her mother at the British prison and attending soirees with her friend Celeste. After one of the prisoners that Betty helped to care for is mercilessly killed, she takes up her cousin's offer to spy for the Culper Ring. Betty's attendance at dances soon catches the attention of Major John Andre. While Betty is courted by the Major, she is able to collect important information to pass on to the Ring, but she must not only protect her heart while she falls for the Major, but learn to protect herself while passing on messages to help win the war.


The identity of Agent 355, Lady, of the Culper Ring is still unknown. The author has chosen Betty Floyd to take on this role in To Outwit Them All. Betty's character fits the role perfectly. She is caring, intelligent, and often dismissed due to a physical deformity. I found it interesting that her relationship with Major Andre gave Betty the confidence that she needed in order to commit to being part of the Culper Ring. Written with historical detail, I enjoyed seeing the Revolution unfold through Betty's eyes as well as the soldiers that she interacted with. Betty was focused on the impact of the war on the people in town, not having enough wood to get through winter as well as the prisoners and their wellbeing. From Betty's relationship with Major Andre, she was able to glean important insights to pass onto the Culper Ring, Much of the suspense was in safely passing on messages to her cousin. Through all of the perils of spying and navigating her confusing relationship with Major Andre, Betty stayed strong, calm and consistent, showing the agent 355 was essential in winning the war.


This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

[Beckie Burnham · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Outwit Them All, a historical novel rich in detail, explores the puzzle of who the still unidentified lady member of George Washington’s Culper Spy Ring really was. Nothing is really known about the only female member, Agent 355, of the ring that helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War, though many have their theories. Wirgau presents a fictional case for Elizabeth “Betty” Floyd who was a cousin of Culper, Jr., Robert Townsend. It is interesting that the members of the spy ring kept their identities secret even after the war was concluded. But that may be the nature of spies! The author does a good job of bringing the times to life for the modern reader. (Although some of the phrasing seemed a little too modern — Betty’s cousin getting on her last nerve, for instance.) New York City is the setting, complete with all that surrounded the occupation of the British Army — entertainments for the officers and the horrific conditions of captured rebels. I really liked the history displayed in this novel. The theory of Betty Floyd’s part in spying on the British and her relationship with spymaster British John Andre is well-developed and plausible. I didn’t really like Betty all that much for most of the book. She seemed very naive and generally clueless as to the real dangers associated with her activities, even as she is warned repeatedly that her impulsiveness could prove fatal not only to herself. But she certainly grows in maturity when confronted with the stark realities of her work within the spy ring. Her story certainly kept the pages turning! (Please note: this book is marketed to the general public, however, it does reflect a Christian worldview. There are a couple of instances of profanity.)

While historians may never discover Agent 355’s identity, To Outwit Them All is an intriguing what if. If you like historical fiction set during the early years of America, then you should definitely check out this book.

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(I read this book through the KU subscription. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reminiscent of the best spy movies this fascinating story about a female spy known as 355 in George Washington’s Culper Spy Ring has it all, an unlikely main character, espionage, intrigue, danger, and betrayal . This well researched historical fiction story pulls from actual events but the actual identity of the female spy was unknown. The author uses the research and speculation about the identity of 355 and concludes the theory that makes the most sense was a Loyalist living in New York CIty was 355 and Betty Floyd fit the profile. Betty moves amongst the British soldiers, attending parties with her friend and is viewed as a Loyalist as her family connection to a signer of the Declaration of Independence is hidden. As her views about the British changes she takes risks and passes information she obtains at the parties and through her relationship with Major John Andre to the Culpeper Spy Ring. Will she outwit the British or will she be betrayed? Betty is a fascinating and relatable main character who drew me in as tries to figure out how to navigate the reality of war in her city. I found myself quickly turning the pages and holding my breath at the dangerous situations. Historical photos and documents at the beginning of some chapters were a welcome addition as they provided me with actual points of reference for the story. After reading the story I found myself searching for more information about the Culpeper spy ring which for me is a measure of excellence for historical fiction. I highly recommend this book to readers of historical fiction and readers that enjoy resilient female characters surviving in dangerous situations.

Thanks to Books Forward and the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Betty Floyd assists her mother in providing limited nursing care, as well as food, for the Continental soldiers in the makeshift prison/hospital the British have imprisoned them in. Theirs is almost the only care the soldiers receive, and Betty is happy to help.

As an attractive, single young woman, Betty and her friend Celeste are invited to the many parties and balls held by the British command in New York City. They're both highly regarded as dance partners. But when one of Betty's soldiers at the prison is killed, for no reason other than to provide extra prison space, her feelings change to favor General Washington and the Continental Army. And she's recruited as an anonymous female spy (number 355) in Washington's Culper Spy Ring. And Betty begins her double life.

Unknown to all but her handler, Betty listens for information from British soldiers at parties, in the event that plans are mentioned that could affect the Patriots. As she and Major John André draw closer together, the stakes are even higher for Betty. For if she is caught? The charge will be treason. Which carries with it a death sentence, or what's almost one, imprisonment on the floating prison ships the British keep in the harbor.

Can Betty serve her country--or love a British army officer--without paying the ultimate price?

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions and thoughts shared here are my own honest ones.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll preface my review by saying I haven't yet finished the book. But I am LOVING it! I appreciate good historical fiction, and this one is - as good historical fiction does - teaching me something I didn't know.

Betty Floyd is the picture of British loyalty, at least on the surface. When her seemingly mild, unruffled cousin recruits her for the Culper Ring, an active spy network gathering information for General Washington, her first reaction is denial that she could ever do such a thing. But when a Colonial soldier she'd gotten to know through her prison work is killed, she can no longer support the Crown.

I've just gotten to the part where she's met Major John Andre, the new British Director of Intelligence. There are sparks, but she's telling herself she wants nothing to do with him. She's just let her cousin know she's in for joining the spy game, and I suspect it's about to get GOOD.

Peggy Wirgau has a wonderful writing style, easy to read and easy to picture what she's writing about. Betty is compassionate but not controlled by her emotions. Her family is close-knit, and they're working together to make the best of things during British occupation.

So far, I'm giving it five stars. I'll come back and share my full review when I'm done reading it!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to leave a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't actually like.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this brilliant historical fiction novel about the Revolutionary War spy only known as 355, readers explore what this mysterious anonymous woman member of the Culper Spy Ring may have done during the war. Entertaining British soldiers and passing on information to the Continental Army, Betty Floyd (niece of Founding Father William Floyd) accidentally falls in love with the British soldier -- the infamous John Andre -- trying to discover Betty’s secret identity and the rest of the spy ring. Offering glimpses into occupied Long Island and New York City and speculating on the identity of 355, this book explores the risks that spies faced and the challenges of living under British occupation during the American Revolution. Brilliantly written and packed with incredible historical details, this book is a high-stakes, intriguing historical fiction novel that really centers the complicated politics of the American Revolution and the odd relationships between colonists and British soldiers. Betty is a competent and fascinating protagonist whose growth over the novel really pulls readers into the story, and the setting and depth of detail add incredible complexity to the story. Exciting, dramatic, and unpredictable, historical fiction fans will love this incredible new release from Peggy Wirgau.

Thanks to NetGalley and Iron Stream Media for the advance copy.

[Cynthia Prosser · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical novel tells the fictionalized tale of a young women living in New York City during the Revolutionary War. She serves as a spy in the Culper Ring gathering information of potential interest and use to the the Patriot cause. Since New York City was occupied by British forces at the time of the novel, our heroine, Betty Floyd, has the opportunity to enjoy the social scene provided by the British Army - dances, theatrical presentations, etc. In the course of these outings she meets Major John Andre and they become very good friends. The story was enjoyable with glimpses of everyday life in the City. Not being an authority in urban, upper society mores and manners of the Revolutionary War period, I was a bit surprised at some of the activities - nothing inappropriate, I was just surprised at some of them. Betty Floyd is a vivacious young lady with strongly held beliefs which leads her to take action, sometimes thinking more with her heart than her head. She falls prey to the typical thoughts and feelings of a young women. Would recommend to those who enjoy historical novel with a bit of romance, those interested in the Revolutionary War, and those with an interest in spy tales.

[Karla Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgua is a fictional account of the "lady" in George Washington's spy ring during the Revolutionary War. Before I read this novel, I had only the vaguest notion that there even was a spy ring, so it was fascinating to learn more about it. What I found most intriguing was that the lady was only known as "355," and to this day, no one knows who she really was. Apparently, there are seven likely possibilities. This book explores the "what-if" possibility that a young woman named Betty Floyd was the lady spy.

Betty lives with her mother, younger brother, and her grandmother's former housekeeper. She is courted by a British major, which proves very handy for her spying purposes. She reports to her cousin, who runs a dry goods shop. All of the characters were believable and well-written.

I read a wide variety of genres, but my main objective is to learn something from every book I read. This one covers an obscure but important detail in American history. If you enjoy historical novels based on real events I highly recommend it.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All views expressed are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical Fiction is one of my favorite genres. To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgau is the latest book in this genre that I have read.

The storyline pulled me in right away and I could not put the book down. The setting is New York City in 1779. The main character is Betty Floyd, whose uncle signed the Declaration of Independence. Betty becomes a part of Culper Ring, which is a covert Spy Group led by General Washington. Betty is an American spy who meets Major John André, who is the British director of Intelligence. Betty is wanting to stay true to the Patriots and not blow her cover, yet her heart is yearning for Major John André. Betty is put at risk, but she is able to stay undercover. The Author does an AMAZING job at the Historical Facts of this book. I really enjoyed the relationship between Betty and Major John André. The storyline gets strong with the espionage action, but it stays true to timeline of the happenings. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction with Romance. GREAT BOOK!