Dangerous Deceits

Daughters of Liberty #4

by Vanessa Lind

Between friend and foe lies the fate of a nation...

As British surveillance tightens its grip across Long Island in 1780, the Patriots face their darkest hour. When Washington's traditional intelligence channels falter, Phoebe Tredwell and her Oyster Cove Literary Society must become the revolution's secret strength. With each coded message and clandestine meeting, these unlikely spies risk everything for liberty.

The arrival of the captivating Major John André sets Phoebe's instincts on edge. Behind his charm and wit lurks a shadow she can't quite place—a darkness that hints at treachery of unimaginable consequence. In a war where deception is the deadliest currency, Phoebe's judgment could save or doom the revolution itself.

Her heart offers no clear guidance, especially where James Ewing is concerned. After months of silence, the British officer who captured her affections has returned with critical intelligence—and renewed declarations of love. But can she truly trust a man who serves the Crown with the secrets of her heart—or the future of her country?

Rich with historical detail and breathtaking suspense, Dangerous Deceits brilliantly imagines the courage of the unsung heroines of the American Revolution.

Genres: Historical Fiction

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 23, 2025

About the author

Vanessa Lind loves writing about strong women from the past, especially the ones who’ve got a secret or two. She enjoys heartfelt stories that keep readers turning pages with characters that aren’t easily forgotten.

Vanessa grew up in Illinois but has since migrated to the Pacific Northwest, where she lives near a town rich in history (and breweries). She has a serious book-buying problem, never turns down a cup of tea, and gets her best ideas while walking her boxer dog. Her goal in life, besides writing unforgettable books, is to be a good ancestor.

Reviews

[Linda Rowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dangerous Deceits, book 4, in the Daughters of Liberty series continues to build not only on the relationships in Oyster Cove and beyond but also on the dangers of living amongst British occupied territory during trying times.
Phoebe Tredwell is finding herself having to advocate even more that as women they too can help out in the war effort as "spies" bringing information to the troops. She is putting herself into more dangerous situations and risks being exposed as a spy.
This novel involves less of the local Oyster Cove ladies and once more she is with Hannah who married a British soldier and Alida.
The women in this story are strong, true to their convictions and
steadfast in their loyalty to the Patriots and helping to end the war.
There is a connection that Benedict Arnold had with Phoebe and the research that Vanessa Lind puts into each and every novel makes this a very interesting read.
Lastly, Phoebe seems to have attracted another suitor along with the still smitten James Ewing. I cannot wait until the final chapter in this series to see how Phoebe and the Oyster Cove Society fares as the war continues around them.
Lovers of historical fiction need to read Vanessa Lind!

Thank you to Vanessa Lind and Book Sirens for this ARC. In return I gladly leave my honest review.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Phoebe is back, and she realizes a terrible blow is being planned against the Patriot army. Unfortunately, with little hard evidence, no one seems to believe her, and she is forced to go to great lengths to convey the information.

While I was happy to spend time with Alida (and Hannah!), I missed Phoebe's sisters in this book. Not that they are completely gone, just that the dynamic I think is a strength of this series (the bonds between this group of women) wasn't really featured here.

The events surrounding Benedict Arnold's betrayal of the Patriots, including the plot to bring the traitor to justice, are fascinating. However, there were a lot of coincidences required here so that Phoebe could be present at a particular historical moment or meet a particular real-life person. And I'm not sure some of these people (the men in particular) would have been so forthcoming with (or in front of) her.

I'm looking forward to seeing how Phoebe's (and James') story wraps up. Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the early read.

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

i am totally wrapped up in this series as I've always loved history and grew up in New England. Once again, Phoebe has Igathered important intelligence and is struggling to get it to General Washington while trying to appear innocuous. Who can be trusted? James Ewing, the man Phoebe loves, still seems to be a Tory. Benedict Arnold, one of my ancestors, is a major player. Vanessa Lind's attention to detail of daily life and history always makes me wonder if some of this didn't actually happen. Daughters of Deceit is well worth your time.I received an advanced copy and willingly leave this review.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the penultimate book in Ms. Lind’s Daughters of Liberty series and it’s a thriller with lots of action and suspense. I won’t go into details about the plot, but we find our heroine, Phoebe Tredwell, still in the thick of the spy business and this time leaving home to travel to NY to share information about a couple of plots harmful to the American Revolution, now in its 4th year. Phoebe has trouble convincing anyone that she should be taken seriously – after all she is just a woman! – but she perseveres against heavy odds and danger to herself. Her dashing sort-of beau, James Ewing, makes his appearance as well as real-life character Benedict Arnold. We find out what happened to Ester, who used to work for the Tredwells, and John Andre returns as well. While one has to stretch one’s imagination a bit to allow for Phoebe to be in the right place at the right time in some situations, the reader keeps in mind that this is historical fiction, and some liberties can be taken. What I love about all of Ms. Lind’s historical series is that she brings history to life in her books! We get to see the important roles that women played in the success of the Revolution (and in the Civil War in her Secrets of the Blue and Gray series) as well as how the war affected the people behind the front lines. How did they get their needs met – food, clothing, etc.? How did they deal with being occupied by a hostile force? How did they help the cause of liberty for Americans? Ms. Lind does a deep dive into historical facts and people so her books are well researched. You’ll want to read her notes at the end of each of her books where she explains how she based her fictional characters on real people and how she was able to interweave real people into her historical fiction.

I figured this series was getting close to the end since this book is set during the 4th year of the Revolution. Ms. Lind points out in her notes that the fifth book will be the last one. I appreciate that she does not drag out her historical series, making each book a substantial contribution to the series and not just filler. I will be sorry to see this series end, as I have been sorry to see all her series end. In the meantime, I’ll enjoy the ride with Phoebe and her sisters to the finish.

I received an advance review copy of Dangerous Deceits, and I leave this review voluntarily and with great pleasure.

[Valeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I say this every time, but I think it repeatedly every time: I am always delighted to read books by Vanessa Lind, and the Daughters of Liberty series is another compelling, dense and intense read. The timeliness of that history stands even more starkly as a backdrop for current events in the US, and it makes the risk and tension very real.

Watching these characters change and grow through events, navigating tenuous situations and loyalties, is both heart-breaking and heart-pounding.

Deadly Deceits is a crescendo of events hurtling everyone forward blindly, bravely, and passionately towards an uncertain future. So few things are what they seem, that when a genuine person walks into the storyline and they are truly as good and honest as they appear, it is a refreshing relief and I felt my shoulders relax along with everyone in the book.

Just when Phoebe thinks she knows where she stands, the floor tilts and she’s once again watching every step she takes while also being vigilant of everything around her. Her courage and compassion move others to take risks themselves to aid in protecting others and to protect the newly-emerging country.

These books remind us that in order for good to win over evil, we must all stand and fight for that good. The victory does not just casually happen, it is the reward of those who fight. Phoebe and her friends show clearly that fighting takes many forms, and involves the smallest things.

And this is why these books are so exhausting to read as well: Phoebe takes us with her, right into the fray, and we feel how wrung out she is ourselves.

I have no idea how Vanessa Lind puts these books together but I’m thankful she has that gift, and privileged to receive an advanced copy. This is my honest review, just toned down and shortened.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Daughters of Liberty series and Phoebe Treadwell never ceases to be a strong willed, amusing character! This book, as with the entire series is packed with action, adventure and this particular book shows more of Phoebe's developing romance with the dashing James Ewing. In the midst of her ongoing espionage habits, Phoebe uncovers a risk to George Washington and the Revolution and risks it all to warn those in charge. Along the way she faces the dilemma of not being taken seriously as a woman but continues to persevere. A character after my own heart! One of the many things I love about Phoebe is that she is strong willed and she doesn't know when to give up. At least in historical fiction, this is accurate and Phoebe manages to be in the right places at the right times, allowing her to meet who she needs to and uncover information. One of the things to love about this series and all of Vanessa Linds books is that she showcases the roles that women played in history which I feel like isn't highlighted as much as women likely acted. Which brings to point that her books are well researched and historically accurate with events. I did enjoy seeing how the situation with Benedict Arnold played out along the way and the way spies were uncovered.
It was a bit of a shame that Phoebe's sisters weren't featured more but I think it goes to show how dedicated they were to the cause.
Overall, I'd definitely recommend this series and I can't wait for the fifth book in the series!

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion. I have read all of Vanessa Lind 's series because I find her writing, descriptions of places and events, wonderful characters and storytelling, intriguing, a pleasure to read. But more especially her historical series,written with great historical accuracy are addictive and this one in particular, set in the years of the war for the independence of America, easily rivals Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series, of which I have long been a fan. Pheobe Treadwell, whilst not a time traveller or a medical doctor, shows as much intelligence, courage and determination as Gabaldon's heroine. In this episode she travels away from home more than ever, frustrated as ever by male refusal to believe a young woman capable of anything but gossip and fancy, nevertheless manages to get vital information through, only to find the betrayal of Benedict Arnold has caused shock and chaos - true events taken from historical record. Reunited with her sweetheart and her brother, Pheobe should be able to breathe easier back in her Long Island home, But there is more upheaval, and danger to come before the war is over. I'm already impatient for the final book in this series!

[Ruth McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently finished Vanessa Lind's fourth book in the Daughters of Liberty series. And it didn't disappoint.
A lot happened in this story, and they aren't books that have a definitive ending (say, like a murder mystery), so I will give some highlights.
We are introduced to Benedict Arnold in a round about way, and his young wife Peggy.
Phoebe and her cousin are reunited for a short time, and Hanna sort of asks Phoebe for help with a local gentleman's clothing maker ...
Phoebe and Alita attempt to get information to General Washington a couple of times.... But they may be too late.
Phoebe gets to see her Scottish soldier, who now works under Benedict Arnold, but *might* be able to use his position to help a friend of Phoebe's.
If you have read the first three books in this series, this is a nice continuation of what's happening in the Revolutionary War in New York and in the lives of the Tredwell sisters and their friends and family. And how they must use wit and cunning to work around the constant presence of the British troops who occupy the areas of and around where they live.
5 stars as always.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my voluntary review.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so addicted to this series! Ms. Lind weaves an incredible historical story about a female spy ring who work to save lives and intervene destructive war strategies against the Patriots during the American Revolution. Phoebe Tredwell boldly and bravely travels under cover to forewarn General Washington of a plot she's uncovered through "careful listening". Along the way with her friend Alida, she risks danger and weaves tales that bring her to Benedict Arnold's home just after he's fled to the British. While in New York, she once again encounters Arnold as he endeavors to round up spies. Will he see through her tales? And what of her growing relationship with James Ewing, a British officer?
Ms. Lind's gifted storytelling as well as her in-depth research make "Dangerous Deceits" come alive for the reader. A true gem of a series that I wholeheartedly recommend!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have given my honest opinion in this review.

[Angelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dangerous Deceits is possibly one of the best books in the Daughters of Liberty series. Phoebe and her friends are continuing their spying activities for the patriots, but the stakes are getting higher. There are spies for the other side who have infiltrated their cause. One of them may even be someone she knows. In addition to the spying and counter-spying, Phoebe is still unsure about her relationship with James Ewing. Whose side is he really on?

Ms. Lind once again takes us right back to Revolutionary times, not just the politics and war, but the every day life of the people in the colonies. Her historical research makes the story come alive. And I especially appreciate the fact that this series highlights the contributions of the women who were the unsung heroes of the Revolutionary War.

I love this series, and I loved this book.

I received an advance reader copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kymm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is one of my absolute favorites. I look forward to each new release and read it as soon as I can. In book 4 we see Phoebe and the Oyster Cove Literary Society getting deeper in the Patriot fight in and around New York. Phoebe's skill and bravery will lead her to even more danger when a traitor to their cause is discovered working for the King now. The excitement and level of suspense in these stories is part of why I can't get enough. Reading the role women played in the Revolutionary War is refreshing and now knowing how hard they also worked for freedom alongside their male counterparts in dangerous roles is part of history we need more of. If you enjoy historical content around these times, you won't find a better series to read. I highly recommend the Daughters of Liberty series. Happy Reading!

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this continuation of the story of the ladies of the Oyster Cove Literary Society and their role in the War of Independence we found Phoebe trying to reach General Washington to give him a very piece of information that she has gathered, the involvement and betrayal of Benedict Arnold to the patriots army.
The stakes are very high and the risks are enormous but she will do the impossible to help the cause and defeat the British.
As with the previous books of the series, and frankly with all of the books written by Vanessa Lind, the amount of historical research shows in the pages and makes it very hard to put down.
I can't wait to read the next and last book of the series and learn the fate of Phoebe and of the other ladies of the society.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book in the Daughters of Liberty Series. I think each book in the series gets better and better. Please read this series from the beginning as there is much character development as the books progress. Phoebe and her literary society contribute much to the Patriot's cause. This book was definitely a page turner as Phoebe and her friends go from one adventure to another. If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female characters, please read this series. I am looking forward to the final book in this series.

Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions in my review are entirely my own.

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading about Phoebe's adventures again, though I am ready for the series (and the Revolutionary War) to end. It is amazing what she was able to do. It was good to see more of her relationship with James. The writing and character development are good. It was interesting to read at the end how much of the story was based on real people and events.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Katrina Freckleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading about Phoebe, her family and friends as well as the developing romance interwoven with spies and who is on what side, it is an historical tale woven delicately and interestingly through time. If you are interested in historical drama this series is for you.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Norma Soper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanessa Lind has done it again. While reading Dangerous Deceits, I was on the edge of my seat praying that Phoebe Tredwell and her friend would not get caught. James Ewing is someone that makes you wonder if he is being up & up with Phoebe or just 'helping' both ways. Praying that this all turns out as I would like it to do.... but if not.....

[Frankie Mott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another thoroughly enjoyable read - full of historical detail and suspense.

Really feel I have learnt so much history from this series, yet it doesn't feel like a history lesson.

From totally believable and relatable characters to an accurate historical background, this book kept me interested the whole way through.

Now I only have to wait for the next one...

[Cheryl Binkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book. I felt the characters were very realistic and the storyline was excellent. Many exciting adventures throughout this book. The different settings and areas visited in this book were interesting and I felt true to the era of the story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.