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The Patriot's Daughter: A Novel
Democracy is fracturing—and one woman may hold the key to saving it.
This electrifying debut from former CIA officer and TikTok sensation Brittany Butler is the perfect geopolitical thriller for fans of David McCloskey and Alma Katsu.
When a wave of Russian cyberattacks ignites a disinformation firestorm, the United States is pushed to the brink of a civil war. State governments defy Washington. Militias rise. As trust crumbles and chaos spreads, the CIA races to expose the source behind such unrest before democracy collapses from within.
Brilliant, relentless, and haunted by her mother’s disappearance, Ava was recruited for a moment like this. Dispatched to infiltrate Russia’s foreign intelligence service, her mission becomes personal when she locks onto her target, Konstantine, a charismatic SVR officer whose shadowed past intertwines with her own.
What Ava uncovers is more insidious than she feared. With the country unraveling, she must navigate a minefield of deception. Her only anchor is Ben, a veteran counterintelligence officer with complicated romantic feelings for Ava. But in a world where nothing is as it seems, trusting the wrong person could be fatal.
Ripped from tomorrow’s headlines, The Patriot’s Daughter is a fresh new take on the international spy genre.
This electrifying debut from former CIA officer and TikTok sensation Brittany Butler is the perfect geopolitical thriller for fans of David McCloskey and Alma Katsu.
When a wave of Russian cyberattacks ignites a disinformation firestorm, the United States is pushed to the brink of a civil war. State governments defy Washington. Militias rise. As trust crumbles and chaos spreads, the CIA races to expose the source behind such unrest before democracy collapses from within.
Brilliant, relentless, and haunted by her mother’s disappearance, Ava was recruited for a moment like this. Dispatched to infiltrate Russia’s foreign intelligence service, her mission becomes personal when she locks onto her target, Konstantine, a charismatic SVR officer whose shadowed past intertwines with her own.
What Ava uncovers is more insidious than she feared. With the country unraveling, she must navigate a minefield of deception. Her only anchor is Ben, a veteran counterintelligence officer with complicated romantic feelings for Ava. But in a world where nothing is as it seems, trusting the wrong person could be fatal.
Ripped from tomorrow’s headlines, The Patriot’s Daughter is a fresh new take on the international spy genre.
336 pages, Paperback
First published April 21, 2026
About the author
Brittany Butler
2 books160 followersBrittany Butler is a former CIA targeting officer with first-hand knowledge of the recruitment and handling of spies and dismantling terrorist networks abroad. She is a staunch advocate for women’s rights in the Middle East and works within her local community to resettle Afghan refugees. The Syndicate Spy is her first novel.
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the advance copy. I wanted to like this book. The prologue hooked me, and the premise of a CIA agent with a mission in Russia sounded intriguing. Unfortunately, I found the MC, Ava unlikeable. She vacillated between projecting (false) bravado and damsel in distress. The will they/ won't they build-up between Ava and Ben, the other intelligence officer, had me rolling my eyes. This is only Ava's second mission, but has she proven herself, or does the CIA have another reason for selecting her? There were just too many moments of, "Seriously?" to really enjoy this book.
November 22, 2025
Another doozy. I've been on a kick of not-great books lately...
This "thriller" (there was nothing thrilling about it) was allegedly written by a former CIA officer, but you could have fooled me! There was a lack of knowledge of the Russian language—molodyozh (молодеж) means "youth" in the aggregate, such as "The youth voted for Vice President Gore." I think the author meant molodenkaya or something along those lines, which would be used as an affectionate term for a younger woman.
The writing was also quite bad. At one point, the author writes, "His eyes ping-ponged around the room." Sounds painful! Or how about this passage, describing a moment between the main character and her love interest: "She met Ben's eyes once more, deep pools where she could simultaneously loose [sic] and find herself at the same time." Really? What is this, a poorly written romance novel?
Plus, I was frustrated by the treatment of the "villains," the Liberty Coalition. Their sin? Thinking the federal government has too much power and surveils us. Um, it does! But in this book, people who think that way are terrorists supported by the Big Bad Russians.
Then, to make things even weirder, it takes a monarchical turn in the end. All of a sudden the characters want a constitutional monarchy for Russia! How random! (I say this as an avid White Russian supporter who also wants a return to monarchy. It just was kind of shoe-horned into the plot.)
Also, the Russian surname Голицын is properly transliterated as Golitsyn, not the horrible looking "Gallitzin" this book uses. Just saying.
Thank you to NetGalley for the free review copy.
This "thriller" (there was nothing thrilling about it) was allegedly written by a former CIA officer, but you could have fooled me! There was a lack of knowledge of the Russian language—molodyozh (молодеж) means "youth" in the aggregate, such as "The youth voted for Vice President Gore." I think the author meant molodenkaya or something along those lines, which would be used as an affectionate term for a younger woman.
The writing was also quite bad. At one point, the author writes, "His eyes ping-ponged around the room." Sounds painful! Or how about this passage, describing a moment between the main character and her love interest: "She met Ben's eyes once more, deep pools where she could simultaneously loose [sic] and find herself at the same time." Really? What is this, a poorly written romance novel?
Plus, I was frustrated by the treatment of the "villains," the Liberty Coalition. Their sin? Thinking the federal government has too much power and surveils us. Um, it does! But in this book, people who think that way are terrorists supported by the Big Bad Russians.
Then, to make things even weirder, it takes a monarchical turn in the end. All of a sudden the characters want a constitutional monarchy for Russia! How random! (I say this as an avid White Russian supporter who also wants a return to monarchy. It just was kind of shoe-horned into the plot.)
Also, the Russian surname Голицын is properly transliterated as Golitsyn, not the horrible looking "Gallitzin" this book uses. Just saying.
Thank you to NetGalley for the free review copy.
November 9, 2025
The Patriot’s Daughter by Brittany Butler is an intelligent, fast-paced, and emotionally charged story that perfectly blends espionage, politics, and humanity. As a former CIA officer, Butler brings a rare authenticity to her writing—the kind that makes every twist feel grounded in reality.
I absolutely loved this book. From the very first chapter, I was pulled into the tension and moral complexity of the spy world. The main character, Ava, is strong, flawed, and deeply human. I appreciated how Butler balanced action and emotion, showing the toll that secrets, loyalty, and patriotism take on a person’s soul. It’s not just a spy thriller—it’s a story about identity, family, and what it truly means to serve your country. The addition of Ben as Ava’s handler was a good one.
What really stood out to me was how current and relevant it felt. The political and social undertones reflect real-world issues, yet the book never loses sight of its characters’ emotional journeys. Butler’s insider type perspective shines through in every detail, making it a rare read that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking. Nobody is telling the truth! Nobody is who they say they are and that makes a page turning book SO real!
If you love stories with strong female leads, like Ava, intricate plots, and moral depth, The Patriot’s Daughter is a must-read. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you turn the last page.
I absolutely loved this book. From the very first chapter, I was pulled into the tension and moral complexity of the spy world. The main character, Ava, is strong, flawed, and deeply human. I appreciated how Butler balanced action and emotion, showing the toll that secrets, loyalty, and patriotism take on a person’s soul. It’s not just a spy thriller—it’s a story about identity, family, and what it truly means to serve your country. The addition of Ben as Ava’s handler was a good one.
What really stood out to me was how current and relevant it felt. The political and social undertones reflect real-world issues, yet the book never loses sight of its characters’ emotional journeys. Butler’s insider type perspective shines through in every detail, making it a rare read that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking. Nobody is telling the truth! Nobody is who they say they are and that makes a page turning book SO real!
If you love stories with strong female leads, like Ava, intricate plots, and moral depth, The Patriot’s Daughter is a must-read. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you turn the last page.
November 19, 2025
I love a good spy thriller but unfortunately I felt The Patriot's Daughter was lacking something. The premise was fine - CIA agent Ava is on a mission in Russia but is actually seeking to find out what happened to her mother who was also an agent who went missing. It just has too many plot holes and is so repetitive that I found myself skimming sections. The book starts with Ava running away from her aunt's and overhearing her aunt tell someone that Ava's mother was murdered but later in the book is a scene where officers show up at her aunt's house and tell them that she had been killed. Which was it? When Ava & her love interest are hooking up in her apartment he carries her over to....a conference table?? At one point there is a funeral for someone who is being buried next to her mother. Her mother has been missing for the whole book, but now they know there is a body? There were tons of little grammatical errors like "loose" instead of "lose" and "dissemble" instead of "disassemble" along with lots of run-on sentences and copious commas. I was never really hooked or invested and would not have finished it if I hadn't felt obligated to write a review.
#NetGalley #ThePatriotsDaughter
#NetGalley #ThePatriotsDaughter
November 24, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this advance reader’s copy, in exchange for an honest review. “The Patriot’s Daughter” is scheduled for release on April 21, 2026.
The book’s premise is both interesting and timely. Russian cyberattacks ignite a disinformation firestorm that pushes the United States to the brink of a civil war.
Sound familiar?
Unfortunately, the premise is the only positive comment I can offer on this novel from former CIA officer Brittany Butler. The narrative and flow are so convoluted I frequently stopped and questioned whether I had missed a chapter somewhere.
The Prologue gives us 11-year-old Ava Anderson living with her aunt. Her mother, Theresa, has been away for ‘work’ (which we soon learn is as a CIA agent) for the past two months, and there is no father in the picture. One night, small suitcase packed, Ava leaves home, ostensibly to search for her mother.
Then we fast-forward to 26-year-old Ava on assignment in Russia as a CIA agent.
First, that’s a huge leap in time. What happened during those 15 years? And do you really expect the reader to believe that an 11-year-old just walks out of the house one night and manages to survive unscathed to become a CIA agent at age 26?
Perhaps more importantly, despite her current assignment, Ava makes it clear that the real reason she became a CIA agent is to find what happened to her mother. Now, since the CIA knows Ava’s mother was an agent who ‘disappeared’ (though we soon find out that’s not necessarily the case), why would the CIA even take her on and train her? Isn’t there some sort of conflict-of-interest there?
We then learn that Ava’s aunt showed Ava a letter from the CIA indicating her mother was arrested for treason. But if Ava ran off at age 11, when did her aunt show her the letter? And later Ava says that the truth about her mother is “buried deep within Langley’s vaults.” So how did her aunt have a letter if ‘the truth’ is buried?
The entire narrative feels disjointed, and (in my opinion) would benefit from a significant re-write before being published. Way too many holes, and not enough character development or believability to pull me in and keep me interested.
One star for “The Patriot’s Daughter.”
And you can check out all of my reviews at my Raised on Reading (www.raisedonreading.com) book blog.
The book’s premise is both interesting and timely. Russian cyberattacks ignite a disinformation firestorm that pushes the United States to the brink of a civil war.
Sound familiar?
Unfortunately, the premise is the only positive comment I can offer on this novel from former CIA officer Brittany Butler. The narrative and flow are so convoluted I frequently stopped and questioned whether I had missed a chapter somewhere.
The Prologue gives us 11-year-old Ava Anderson living with her aunt. Her mother, Theresa, has been away for ‘work’ (which we soon learn is as a CIA agent) for the past two months, and there is no father in the picture. One night, small suitcase packed, Ava leaves home, ostensibly to search for her mother.
Then we fast-forward to 26-year-old Ava on assignment in Russia as a CIA agent.
First, that’s a huge leap in time. What happened during those 15 years? And do you really expect the reader to believe that an 11-year-old just walks out of the house one night and manages to survive unscathed to become a CIA agent at age 26?
Perhaps more importantly, despite her current assignment, Ava makes it clear that the real reason she became a CIA agent is to find what happened to her mother. Now, since the CIA knows Ava’s mother was an agent who ‘disappeared’ (though we soon find out that’s not necessarily the case), why would the CIA even take her on and train her? Isn’t there some sort of conflict-of-interest there?
We then learn that Ava’s aunt showed Ava a letter from the CIA indicating her mother was arrested for treason. But if Ava ran off at age 11, when did her aunt show her the letter? And later Ava says that the truth about her mother is “buried deep within Langley’s vaults.” So how did her aunt have a letter if ‘the truth’ is buried?
The entire narrative feels disjointed, and (in my opinion) would benefit from a significant re-write before being published. Way too many holes, and not enough character development or believability to pull me in and keep me interested.
One star for “The Patriot’s Daughter.”
And you can check out all of my reviews at my Raised on Reading (www.raisedonreading.com) book blog.
November 21, 2025
Brittany Butler 's Patriot's Daughter is an exciting CIA espionage spy novel with additional elements of romance and a search for identity. Since Butler was a part of the CIA, the storyline feels authentic, although a bit far fetched.
Short, punchy chapters keep the action moving forward for the most part. Sometimes the pace slowed down for me, particularly at the beginning of the book where the author was setting up or deepening all the plot elements she eventually wove together. However, upon reflection, these quieter parts where not much happened, showed the pace of real spying: lots of tedious planning and asset cultivation, then incredible battles that require split second life or death decisions.
Multiple subplots ( romance with a co- worker, search for the fate of Ava's mother, discovering her father, etc.) humanized the main characters and made the story richer. However, sometimes there were errors as if the author forgot some of the details previously embedded in the plot. For example, at the beginning of the story when Ava, the protagonist, Is a young teen, her aunt casually tells someone her mother is dead. Then much later, representatives from the CIA come to the aunt's house with the same message. The aunt acts like this is new news.
I thought the romance with Ben added a good dimension to the story and served as a welcome break from the grim, terrifying action. However, some of the descriptions were a bit cringey, particularly since this is not really a romance novel. Following are some examples: " His mouth crashed against hers, rough and desperate, a collision of fear and something desperate." Or "He looked down at her, his eyes blazing, and there was a fraction of a second that she could feel the desire pulsing between them." This overwrought, florid writing seemed incongruent with the taut action and serious themes in the rest of the story.
The biggest take-away for me was that although the plot sometimes seemed a bit implausible, it Incorporated many contemporary events, political movements, and Cold War conflicts that we are experiencing right now. The scary scenario in which Russia attacks America from within could really happen. For this reason alone, the book is worth reading.
Short, punchy chapters keep the action moving forward for the most part. Sometimes the pace slowed down for me, particularly at the beginning of the book where the author was setting up or deepening all the plot elements she eventually wove together. However, upon reflection, these quieter parts where not much happened, showed the pace of real spying: lots of tedious planning and asset cultivation, then incredible battles that require split second life or death decisions.
Multiple subplots ( romance with a co- worker, search for the fate of Ava's mother, discovering her father, etc.) humanized the main characters and made the story richer. However, sometimes there were errors as if the author forgot some of the details previously embedded in the plot. For example, at the beginning of the story when Ava, the protagonist, Is a young teen, her aunt casually tells someone her mother is dead. Then much later, representatives from the CIA come to the aunt's house with the same message. The aunt acts like this is new news.
I thought the romance with Ben added a good dimension to the story and served as a welcome break from the grim, terrifying action. However, some of the descriptions were a bit cringey, particularly since this is not really a romance novel. Following are some examples: " His mouth crashed against hers, rough and desperate, a collision of fear and something desperate." Or "He looked down at her, his eyes blazing, and there was a fraction of a second that she could feel the desire pulsing between them." This overwrought, florid writing seemed incongruent with the taut action and serious themes in the rest of the story.
The biggest take-away for me was that although the plot sometimes seemed a bit implausible, it Incorporated many contemporary events, political movements, and Cold War conflicts that we are experiencing right now. The scary scenario in which Russia attacks America from within could really happen. For this reason alone, the book is worth reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books/The Quick Brown Fox & Company for the ARC of "The Patriot's Daughter " in exchange for an honest review.
I expected to shower unconditional love on this book because it contains the mixture of everything I crave in a contemporary espionage thriller.......American and Russian spies facing off with the fate of U.S. and the entire civilized world hanging in the balance......suspenseful stealing of top secrets....double agents, triple agents, maybe even quadruple agents, none of whom trust each other for a single second (nor should they.)
Chases.....daring escapes......startling twists......bullet-riddled action a plot that corresponds to today's current events......and to top it all off, a fast boiling romance between Ava, our fearless lead CIA spy and Ben, a tradecraft-savvy battle hardened counterintelligence agent.
The stakes and the danger levels couldn't be higher here. And I was fully enthralled with Ava's combing her save-the-world-as-we-know-it mission with her clandestine agenda to discover the secrets surrounding the betrayal and death of her mother, also a CIA agent.
While I had an exciting time reading everything I've detailed above, the book's incredibly poor editing (or complete lack thereof) threatened to sabotage the novel even worse than what its Russian villains were trying to do to U.S. democracy..
I grew increasingly frustrated with the gaping plot holes, continuity gaps, jarring transitions from one scene to another, a last minute introduction of a formidable villain who then disappears altogether and twists with no rational explanation to back them up.
The overall effect was similar to watching a two hour movie thriller that looked like a half hour of footage was randomly chopped out of it, rendering parts of it senseless.
If all these grievous errors in story construction and plotting had been addressed, I would've easily given "The Patriot's Daughter" 2 more stars than its getting now. And yet I wouldn't mind seeing Ava take on more global adventures, but only if there's huge improvements made from this first one.
(My other reviews can be found at www.thesandyquill.blogspot.com)
I expected to shower unconditional love on this book because it contains the mixture of everything I crave in a contemporary espionage thriller.......American and Russian spies facing off with the fate of U.S. and the entire civilized world hanging in the balance......suspenseful stealing of top secrets....double agents, triple agents, maybe even quadruple agents, none of whom trust each other for a single second (nor should they.)
Chases.....daring escapes......startling twists......bullet-riddled action a plot that corresponds to today's current events......and to top it all off, a fast boiling romance between Ava, our fearless lead CIA spy and Ben, a tradecraft-savvy battle hardened counterintelligence agent.
The stakes and the danger levels couldn't be higher here. And I was fully enthralled with Ava's combing her save-the-world-as-we-know-it mission with her clandestine agenda to discover the secrets surrounding the betrayal and death of her mother, also a CIA agent.
While I had an exciting time reading everything I've detailed above, the book's incredibly poor editing (or complete lack thereof) threatened to sabotage the novel even worse than what its Russian villains were trying to do to U.S. democracy..
I grew increasingly frustrated with the gaping plot holes, continuity gaps, jarring transitions from one scene to another, a last minute introduction of a formidable villain who then disappears altogether and twists with no rational explanation to back them up.
The overall effect was similar to watching a two hour movie thriller that looked like a half hour of footage was randomly chopped out of it, rendering parts of it senseless.
If all these grievous errors in story construction and plotting had been addressed, I would've easily given "The Patriot's Daughter" 2 more stars than its getting now. And yet I wouldn't mind seeing Ava take on more global adventures, but only if there's huge improvements made from this first one.
(My other reviews can be found at www.thesandyquill.blogspot.com)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Patriot’s Daughter is a sharp, fast-paced, and emotionally charged thriller that weaves together espionage, politics, and humanity. Drawing from her experience as a former CIA officer, the author brings a level of authenticity that makes every twist feel believable and grounded.
I was immediately pulled into the tension and moral gray areas of the spy world. Ava is a compelling lead—strong yet flawed, and deeply human. I loved how the story balances high-stakes action with emotional depth, exploring the weight of secrets, loyalty, and patriotism. It’s more than just a spy thriller—it’s a layered story about identity, family, and the true cost of serving your country. And Ben, as Ava’s handler, was a great addition to the dynamic.
What stood out most was how timely and relevant the story feels. The political and social undertones mirror real-world issues, while never losing focus on the characters’ personal journeys. The author’s insider perspective shines through in every detail, making this both a gripping and thought-provoking read. No one is fully honest; no one is exactly who they seem—and that constant uncertainty makes it all feel strikingly real.
The audiobook experience elevated it even further. Marnye Young and Jonathan Waters brought the story to life in a way that made it feel immersive and cinematic—I’m not sure I would’ve connected with it the same way without their performances.
Even the acknowledgments added something special. I loved getting that glimpse into the author’s mindset, especially this line: “The Patriot’s Daughter is about legacy, what we inherit, what we question, and what we choose to protect…” - Brittany Butler Jennings
I can see why some reviews feel the way they do, spy thrillers aren’t universally appealing. Especially when grounded in real-world espionage, they bring a deeper, more complex kind of experience that sets them apart from typical thrillers. It’s a different reading experience altogether—one that’s best appreciated with that perspective in mind before diving in.
Thank you to NetGalley, Spotify Audiobooks and Brittany Butler for the ALC!
I was immediately pulled into the tension and moral gray areas of the spy world. Ava is a compelling lead—strong yet flawed, and deeply human. I loved how the story balances high-stakes action with emotional depth, exploring the weight of secrets, loyalty, and patriotism. It’s more than just a spy thriller—it’s a layered story about identity, family, and the true cost of serving your country. And Ben, as Ava’s handler, was a great addition to the dynamic.
What stood out most was how timely and relevant the story feels. The political and social undertones mirror real-world issues, while never losing focus on the characters’ personal journeys. The author’s insider perspective shines through in every detail, making this both a gripping and thought-provoking read. No one is fully honest; no one is exactly who they seem—and that constant uncertainty makes it all feel strikingly real.
The audiobook experience elevated it even further. Marnye Young and Jonathan Waters brought the story to life in a way that made it feel immersive and cinematic—I’m not sure I would’ve connected with it the same way without their performances.
Even the acknowledgments added something special. I loved getting that glimpse into the author’s mindset, especially this line: “The Patriot’s Daughter is about legacy, what we inherit, what we question, and what we choose to protect…” - Brittany Butler Jennings
I can see why some reviews feel the way they do, spy thrillers aren’t universally appealing. Especially when grounded in real-world espionage, they bring a deeper, more complex kind of experience that sets them apart from typical thrillers. It’s a different reading experience altogether—one that’s best appreciated with that perspective in mind before diving in.
Thank you to NetGalley, Spotify Audiobooks and Brittany Butler for the ALC!
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April 28, 2026Review: The Patriot’s Daughter
Rating: ★★★★★
Thank you, #NetGalley and publisher, #CrookedLaneBooks, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
If you want a book that you can’t put down, you have to pick up
#ThePatriotsDaughter by Brittany Butler. This book really makes you think, and with the author being a past CIA agent herself, it makes the story come alive.
The story follows Ava Anderson. She’s a CIA officer who is smart and tough, but she’s also dealing with some heavy family secrets about her mother. She gets pulled into some serious espionage involving secret agents and a Russian plot that could cause a lot of trouble back home. It’s exciting because it’s not just about the mission; it’s about Ava trying to find the truth while trying to stay out of trouble with her CIA boss.
The main character is Ava, she is a great lead because you really want to root for her. One of the best parts of the book is her relationship with Ben, a veteran officer she works with. The romance and the "will they or won't they" tension between Ava and Ben adds a really nice spark to the story. It’s not just all about the spy stuff; seeing their connection grow while they are in the middle of a dangerous mission makes the book feel much more personal. You also have the target, Konstantine, a Russian spy, who keeps you guessing about who you can actually trust.
It’s easy to get into, and it's an action-packed story. The ending will surprise you, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes, but it never gets confusing. It’s just a solid, five-star thriller with a great mix of action and heart. Highly recommended.
There will also be a sequel out in July or August 2026. I can't wait to read the sequel, I'm sure it will be great, too.
#NetGalley
#ThePatriotsDaughter
#BrittanyButler
#CrookedLaneBooks
https://www.patriciasreadingroom.com
Rating: ★★★★★
Thank you, #NetGalley and publisher, #CrookedLaneBooks, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
If you want a book that you can’t put down, you have to pick up
#ThePatriotsDaughter by Brittany Butler. This book really makes you think, and with the author being a past CIA agent herself, it makes the story come alive.
The story follows Ava Anderson. She’s a CIA officer who is smart and tough, but she’s also dealing with some heavy family secrets about her mother. She gets pulled into some serious espionage involving secret agents and a Russian plot that could cause a lot of trouble back home. It’s exciting because it’s not just about the mission; it’s about Ava trying to find the truth while trying to stay out of trouble with her CIA boss.
The main character is Ava, she is a great lead because you really want to root for her. One of the best parts of the book is her relationship with Ben, a veteran officer she works with. The romance and the "will they or won't they" tension between Ava and Ben adds a really nice spark to the story. It’s not just all about the spy stuff; seeing their connection grow while they are in the middle of a dangerous mission makes the book feel much more personal. You also have the target, Konstantine, a Russian spy, who keeps you guessing about who you can actually trust.
It’s easy to get into, and it's an action-packed story. The ending will surprise you, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes, but it never gets confusing. It’s just a solid, five-star thriller with a great mix of action and heart. Highly recommended.
There will also be a sequel out in July or August 2026. I can't wait to read the sequel, I'm sure it will be great, too.
#NetGalley
#ThePatriotsDaughter
#BrittanyButler
#CrookedLaneBooks
https://www.patriciasreadingroom.com
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Brittany Butler’s The Patriot’s Daughter is a captivating historical novel that explores themes of family legacy, identity, and patriotism through a compelling and emotional narrative.
The novel follows a young woman as she discovers her family’s history and its connections to American history. As the story unfolds, she faces difficult truths about loyalty, sacrifice, and honoring the past. The author skillfully weaves historical details into a personal story, making it both relatable and meaningful.
A major strength of the book is the protagonist's emotional depth. Her growth seems genuine, and her search for answers drives the narrative forward. The pacing stays steady, skillfully combining historical details with her personal development. Readers interested in family histories and national identity will likely find it very compelling.
The writing style is clear and accessible. The author prioritizes storytelling over complex language, ensuring the book is easy to read and follow. The historical details add depth without overwhelming the narrative.
Sometimes, parts of the story feel a bit predictable, particularly how certain revelations unfold. Nevertheless, the emotional payoff and the strong sense of purpose make the experience worthwhile.
Overall, The Patriot's Daughter is a contemplative historical story centered on legacy, bravery, and roots exploration. It appeals to readers who enjoy character-driven historical fiction that emphasizes themes of heritage and self-growth.
The novel follows a young woman as she discovers her family’s history and its connections to American history. As the story unfolds, she faces difficult truths about loyalty, sacrifice, and honoring the past. The author skillfully weaves historical details into a personal story, making it both relatable and meaningful.
A major strength of the book is the protagonist's emotional depth. Her growth seems genuine, and her search for answers drives the narrative forward. The pacing stays steady, skillfully combining historical details with her personal development. Readers interested in family histories and national identity will likely find it very compelling.
The writing style is clear and accessible. The author prioritizes storytelling over complex language, ensuring the book is easy to read and follow. The historical details add depth without overwhelming the narrative.
Sometimes, parts of the story feel a bit predictable, particularly how certain revelations unfold. Nevertheless, the emotional payoff and the strong sense of purpose make the experience worthwhile.
Overall, The Patriot's Daughter is a contemplative historical story centered on legacy, bravery, and roots exploration. It appeals to readers who enjoy character-driven historical fiction that emphasizes themes of heritage and self-growth.
April 26, 2026
I began this book really enjoying the plot, as the chapters came and went there was real enjoyment in the story of a newbie CIA agent on her first assignment in Moscow the use of a media platform sowing dissent and anger into the USA, the various political games, the emergence of a SVR source, who is tasked with investigating the various strands.The agent and her operational partner who she has serious hots for, the backstory of her late mother, labelled a traitor by the CIA who disappeared on a mission in Moscow.The shadowy Konstantin (her SVR source), then suddenly the book became a groaning romance novel, weird shadowy intelligence group made up of an old Russian noble family (funny, I actually knew a real member of the Galitzin family in London) then an action packed chapter of putting bombs on the Russian China express , then yet another jump to bodice ripper and beating hearts , heaving bodies between agents, then a very unsurprising reveal then capture , torture by the baddy, rescued by boyfriend , Konstantin killed and back to the USA, but more to come, showdown with everyone in a missile silo in Montana, all very exhausting , not only for them , but also the reader.Having now moved into Romance , armageddon, fiendish Russians dead daddy, but there is more.
All in all a contradictory jumble of genres, cinematic and dramatic , but I have to admit it left me rather exhausted.
All in all a contradictory jumble of genres, cinematic and dramatic , but I have to admit it left me rather exhausted.
May 12, 2026
The Patriot’s Daughter by Brittany Butler is an interesting spy thriller. There are several intertwined plot lines. One plot line is that Ava Anderson is CIA officer assigned to the embassy in Moscow with an assignment to develop contacts within Russia and particularly with Nathaniel Grey of the social media firm of Vibrantria. He has moved his headquarters to Russia. Vibrantria is pushing a lot content that is leading to discontent in the United States. He is also funding the Liberty Coalition which is involved in anti-government protests in the United States. There is a question of how much influence the Russian government has on the content being published on Vibrantria and the algorithms that direct who sees what content and what is emphasized.
Another plot element is that Ava is the daughter of a former CIA officer who was accused of being a double agent in Russia. Due to her name change and being adopted this information is not widely known with the CIA. She is trying to find out what happened to her mother in Russia when she disappeared.
Another plot twist is the love interest that develops with Ben, a CIA counter-intelligence officer, assigned to watch over her in Russia.
All of these plot lines become quite entangled throughout the novel leading to some interesting plot twists. A very interesting novel, with some unique plot twists not seen in a lot of novels.
Another plot element is that Ava is the daughter of a former CIA officer who was accused of being a double agent in Russia. Due to her name change and being adopted this information is not widely known with the CIA. She is trying to find out what happened to her mother in Russia when she disappeared.
Another plot twist is the love interest that develops with Ben, a CIA counter-intelligence officer, assigned to watch over her in Russia.
All of these plot lines become quite entangled throughout the novel leading to some interesting plot twists. A very interesting novel, with some unique plot twists not seen in a lot of novels.
November 9, 2025
“The Patriot’s Daughter” has plenty of action and intrigue — disinformation campaigns, mistrust of the US government, Russian interference, double agents, lots of secrets and lies. The story contains numerous surprises.
However, there are occasions where the author seems to get confused by the complexity of her story. She has Konstantin and Dimitri meet at the Bolshoi Theatre in the present day and indicates this is the first time they met and lets the reader in on Konstantin’s plan to infiltrate Dimitri’s network and destroy him. Yet that is contradicted by much of the backstory for these characters, including why Konstantin wants revenge, which requires that these characters are already aware of each other. There are multiple times where the timeline is off — things happening too quickly or out of sync. In one of the critical scenes, Dimitri and Volkov and their henchmen surprise Ava and her associates. The author orchestrates a way for Ava to “turn the tables” on them but in the process Volkov just disappears. There is no indication that he leaves the room/scene or that he is killed or captured; rather, it seems like the author just forgot about him, too focused on the confrontation between Ava and Dimitri.
However, there are occasions where the author seems to get confused by the complexity of her story. She has Konstantin and Dimitri meet at the Bolshoi Theatre in the present day and indicates this is the first time they met and lets the reader in on Konstantin’s plan to infiltrate Dimitri’s network and destroy him. Yet that is contradicted by much of the backstory for these characters, including why Konstantin wants revenge, which requires that these characters are already aware of each other. There are multiple times where the timeline is off — things happening too quickly or out of sync. In one of the critical scenes, Dimitri and Volkov and their henchmen surprise Ava and her associates. The author orchestrates a way for Ava to “turn the tables” on them but in the process Volkov just disappears. There is no indication that he leaves the room/scene or that he is killed or captured; rather, it seems like the author just forgot about him, too focused on the confrontation between Ava and Dimitri.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Patriot's Daughter by Brittany Butler is an action-packed spy thriller.
Ava Anderson joined the CIA in hopes of finding out what happened to her mother who disappeared when she was a young child. Now currently assigned in Russia, she hopes she can find out those answers. Ava is working on a case that involves social and political disruption in the United States that originates from Russia.
Joining her on the case is counterintelligence officer Ben Jennings. He was one of her trainers in the US so they already know each other. Their simmering attraction underlies their interactions throughout their search for the disrupters.
The Patriot's Daughter is a timely spy adventure that incorporates relevant issues from current events. Ava is a likable but flawed character who is sometimes distracted by her hunt for answers about her mother. Ben is a professional agent whose efforts to keep their attraction underwraps is mostly successful. The storyline moves at a brisk pace and requires a bit of suspension of disbelief to fully enjoy. Brittany Butler brings this suspenseful novel to an adrenaline-laced conclusion.
Ava Anderson joined the CIA in hopes of finding out what happened to her mother who disappeared when she was a young child. Now currently assigned in Russia, she hopes she can find out those answers. Ava is working on a case that involves social and political disruption in the United States that originates from Russia.
Joining her on the case is counterintelligence officer Ben Jennings. He was one of her trainers in the US so they already know each other. Their simmering attraction underlies their interactions throughout their search for the disrupters.
The Patriot's Daughter is a timely spy adventure that incorporates relevant issues from current events. Ava is a likable but flawed character who is sometimes distracted by her hunt for answers about her mother. Ben is a professional agent whose efforts to keep their attraction underwraps is mostly successful. The storyline moves at a brisk pace and requires a bit of suspension of disbelief to fully enjoy. Brittany Butler brings this suspenseful novel to an adrenaline-laced conclusion.
Review of advance copy
I had the chance to read The Patriot’s Daughter and I’m honestly so impressed. From the first chapter, the story pulls you into a world of intelligence, global stakes, and impossible choices. The pacing is fast and cinematic, but what really stood out to me was how thoughtful and layered the writing is. Every twist feels purposeful, and the characters feel incredibly real.
Ava is a fantastic protagonist—smart, determined, and complex in a way that makes you immediately root for her. The world of espionage and political tension feels vivid and believable, and the story balances high-stakes action with real emotional depth. I kept thinking how easily this could translate to the screen because the scenes are so vivid and gripping.
It’s exciting to see Brittany Butler continue building on her work as a novelist. This book feels timely, intelligent, and incredibly engaging, and you can tell how much care went into crafting the story. If this turns into a series, I’ll absolutely be first in line to read the next one. A fantastic novel and one I’d definitely recommend.
Ava is a fantastic protagonist—smart, determined, and complex in a way that makes you immediately root for her. The world of espionage and political tension feels vivid and believable, and the story balances high-stakes action with real emotional depth. I kept thinking how easily this could translate to the screen because the scenes are so vivid and gripping.
It’s exciting to see Brittany Butler continue building on her work as a novelist. This book feels timely, intelligent, and incredibly engaging, and you can tell how much care went into crafting the story. If this turns into a series, I’ll absolutely be first in line to read the next one. A fantastic novel and one I’d definitely recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Brittany Butler for sending me a finished copy of this book and allowing me to read and review it!
Man. I really wanted to like this book. I just… didn’t. The premise of this book was really intriguing, and as someone who has spent many years in law enforcement, and some of those working for a federal government agency (though not the CIA), I was really excited about reading this book.
The writing was a little all over the place, and the pacing wasn’t where it should be for a finished book. I have to wonder if the author ever utilized alpha or beta readers for this story, which could have helped not only with the pacing but also with some of the plot holes and grammatical errors as well. I honestly hate to leave reviews like this, especially because Brittany sent me one of the coolest PR boxes with this book. I can tell she put so much thought and effort into it and is really excited about this story. I honestly just think it needs some editing and revision. She has a good premise, it just needed some more work before publication.
Man. I really wanted to like this book. I just… didn’t. The premise of this book was really intriguing, and as someone who has spent many years in law enforcement, and some of those working for a federal government agency (though not the CIA), I was really excited about reading this book.
The writing was a little all over the place, and the pacing wasn’t where it should be for a finished book. I have to wonder if the author ever utilized alpha or beta readers for this story, which could have helped not only with the pacing but also with some of the plot holes and grammatical errors as well. I honestly hate to leave reviews like this, especially because Brittany sent me one of the coolest PR boxes with this book. I can tell she put so much thought and effort into it and is really excited about this story. I honestly just think it needs some editing and revision. She has a good premise, it just needed some more work before publication.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Patriot’s Daughter is an ambitious book that pits a young woman, Ava, against a vast Russian-backed organization bent on destroying the United States through disinformation campaigns that would kick off a civil war. This is a pretty big assignment for a someone pretty new to the CIA. Ava’s mother had been a CIA agent and went missing, presumed dead, when Ava was a young girl. She is intent on learning the truth about what happened to her. “It wasn’t just about revenge or ghosts of the past. It was about preventing the future from falling apart”.
The premise of Patriot’s Daughter was good but it suffered in the telling. At times it was mellow-dramatic and sometimes bordered on reading like a super hero story. The love story became an interference. Overall, it was hard to find the characters and the story credible. It was disappointing because it had potential. Thanks to NetGalley for the advance review copy.
The premise of Patriot’s Daughter was good but it suffered in the telling. At times it was mellow-dramatic and sometimes bordered on reading like a super hero story. The love story became an interference. Overall, it was hard to find the characters and the story credible. It was disappointing because it had potential. Thanks to NetGalley for the advance review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Patriot's Daughter is a fast-paced thriller with short chapters to keep the action moving. It was refreshing to read a contemporary spy novel with a female protagonist, especially one written by a former CIA agent. Butler's novel features a young operative, Ava, who is working in Russia to investigate possible Russian cyberattacks. She is also trying to solve the mystery of what happened to her mother, who disappeared when Ava was a child. There is some romance and lots of twists throughout as Ava works to find answers to both problems. If you enjoy stories about espionage, you will enjoy this modern take on fighting terrorism. I think I would have enjoyed it more if there were a bit more character development, instead of non-stop plot, but I realize that the breakneck speed is a feature of this genre. Thank you to Netgalley, Crooked Lane Books, and author Brittany Butler for the librarian preview copy!
April 23, 2026
A political thriller with plenty of action and consequences to go around. Ava is a CIA agent with the skills to enter Russia to find the source of misinformation that has caused militia engagements in the US as conflicts between the states and the government grow. The home situations leave no time for slow integration; Ava must find her targets quickly. Brittany Butler has developed Ava into an intelligence officer who can quickly analyze her surroundings and make tough decisions. She has given her a soft side that is searching for her mother, another agent who has been reported missing. The combination builds a character readers care about while still setting a fast-paced thriller in the middle of some situations that will require her to depend on others who do not have her best interests. While I did enjoy this book, it seemed to cram a lot into each chapter, giving an overload that I had to keep turning back to figure out what was going on.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn’t just write The Patriot’s Daughter. In many ways, I lived inside it.
Before becoming a novelist, I spent nearly a decade working at the CIA. It’s a life that asks a lot of you—secrecy, distance, the quiet understanding that parts of your story can never fully be told. What people don’t always realize is how isolating that world can feel. This book grew out of that feeling.
At its core, The Patriot’s Daughter isn’t just about espionage or geopolitics. It’s about something much more personal: the longing for family, the ache of abandonment, and the human need to belong somewhere in a world that can feel very lonely. Ava is strong, but she’s also searching—for truth, for love, for a place where she finally feels at home. In many ways, writing her story helped me understand parts of my own. Thank you for reading it. ❤️
Before becoming a novelist, I spent nearly a decade working at the CIA. It’s a life that asks a lot of you—secrecy, distance, the quiet understanding that parts of your story can never fully be told. What people don’t always realize is how isolating that world can feel. This book grew out of that feeling.
At its core, The Patriot’s Daughter isn’t just about espionage or geopolitics. It’s about something much more personal: the longing for family, the ache of abandonment, and the human need to belong somewhere in a world that can feel very lonely. Ava is strong, but she’s also searching—for truth, for love, for a place where she finally feels at home. In many ways, writing her story helped me understand parts of my own. Thank you for reading it. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5-3.75 rounded up.
This reminded me of one of the scenarios we had to do in my undergrad poli sci classes, I have seen people in reviews saying how implausible this is but I would actually say this entire book is a dramatized version of a completely realistic geopolitical situation that exists currently. That should be scary and it’s through the work of our intelligence agencies that these things seem implausible. Or at least historically it has been but I won’t go down that path on a book review lol
I think the romance did not add anything for me personally and the familial ties that are revealed were predictable. Other than that I enjoyed this, thought it was fast paced and well researched. I can tell the author has spent her time around certain three letter agencies and I think that added a lot.
Just in general: I need more espionage written by women!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC.
This reminded me of one of the scenarios we had to do in my undergrad poli sci classes, I have seen people in reviews saying how implausible this is but I would actually say this entire book is a dramatized version of a completely realistic geopolitical situation that exists currently. That should be scary and it’s through the work of our intelligence agencies that these things seem implausible. Or at least historically it has been but I won’t go down that path on a book review lol
I think the romance did not add anything for me personally and the familial ties that are revealed were predictable. Other than that I enjoyed this, thought it was fast paced and well researched. I can tell the author has spent her time around certain three letter agencies and I think that added a lot.
Just in general: I need more espionage written by women!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC.
April 21, 2026
After reading Ms. Butler's first novel, The Syndicate Spy, I couldn't wait to get this one. Unfortunately, the Patriot's Daughter didn't quite meet my expectations, and that made me sad.
The book moved along and there were all the elements for a satisfying read. Current topics, emotions, injuries, a bit of romance, possible civil war, and governments working to take down each other. The premise for the book looked so good, but the story just seemed disjointed and not quite put together to me. Things that were said earlier in the book, maybe forgotten, then told again. There just seemed to be holes in the story at times.
I finally just had to suspend belief and go with it! So...a 3.5 star rating bumped up to 4 stars, because anyone who puts their work out in the world for others to read and review deserves that!
The book moved along and there were all the elements for a satisfying read. Current topics, emotions, injuries, a bit of romance, possible civil war, and governments working to take down each other. The premise for the book looked so good, but the story just seemed disjointed and not quite put together to me. Things that were said earlier in the book, maybe forgotten, then told again. There just seemed to be holes in the story at times.
I finally just had to suspend belief and go with it! So...a 3.5 star rating bumped up to 4 stars, because anyone who puts their work out in the world for others to read and review deserves that!
April 28, 2026
I was very interested in reading this book as I had followed the author for awhile now, but had no idea this book would be the thriller that is is. I figured it might be a good story as the author had worked in the CIA before becoming an author but for me this was a thriller along the lines of Jack Carr, Brad Taylor and other authors who have served their country. It was every bit as exciting and tense as any of the books I have enjoyed for many years now, but never from a female author and her viewpoint. Ava, the daughter of a former CIA agent who was killed in Russia, and although Ava is in Russia for another assignment, it is clear that she also wants answers about her mother’s death. Throughout it all, Ava is looking for family, looking for something and someone to mean something to her. This story felt authentic and was a joy to read.
May 6, 2026
The Syndicate Spy was one of my top three reads so I’ve been looking forward to getting my hands on Brittany Butler’s newest book The Patriot’s Daughter. If you are looking for intense, dramatic, and a book that is so suspenseful you can’t put it down, this is the book for you.
Ava brings a vulnerability to this book that you often don’t see in this genre. The fact that the author was able to weave her own personal professional experience into the storyline gives the reader a level of insight into the espionage world that you often don’t get from spy novels.
This book plants you the reader firmly into the storyline. A slow burn, intense, and suspenseful to the point that it was so hard to put this book down. I can’t wait to see what book is next.
Ava brings a vulnerability to this book that you often don’t see in this genre. The fact that the author was able to weave her own personal professional experience into the storyline gives the reader a level of insight into the espionage world that you often don’t get from spy novels.
This book plants you the reader firmly into the storyline. A slow burn, intense, and suspenseful to the point that it was so hard to put this book down. I can’t wait to see what book is next.
November 22, 2025
I was excited and intrigued about The Patriot's Daughter by Brittany Butler. Unfortunately, the character development felt like the reader was dropped in mid-story. We were supposed to believe there was connection between Ava and Ben, but there was no build-up to their romantic relationship. The plot itself was engaging, but the editing and writing really took me out of the story. With as many references to a twisted/tight stomach and tilted vision, Ava needs a lot of anti-nausea medication.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Press for an advance copy of The Patriot's Daughter in exchange for an honest review. 1 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Press for an advance copy of The Patriot's Daughter in exchange for an honest review. 1 out of 5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the privilege to read an advanced copy of The Patriot’s Daughter.
Butler spins an incredible web of deception and romantic drama in a world that feels eerily familiar to our present day geopolitical environment. I’ve read nearly every spy thriller author, and I’ve never experienced a story like this. Butler’s experience comes through the pages in waves, and her ability to keep you on the edge of your seat is unmatched. For fans of romance, you’ll never find another spy thriller with this level of romantic turmoil that feels all too real.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see this on TV or in the theater soon.
Butler spins an incredible web of deception and romantic drama in a world that feels eerily familiar to our present day geopolitical environment. I’ve read nearly every spy thriller author, and I’ve never experienced a story like this. Butler’s experience comes through the pages in waves, and her ability to keep you on the edge of your seat is unmatched. For fans of romance, you’ll never find another spy thriller with this level of romantic turmoil that feels all too real.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see this on TV or in the theater soon.
April 22, 2026
This action-packed espionage novel takes readers across multiple continents, immersing them in a world of covert operations, high-stakes missions, and political intrigue. The story cleverly intertwines current global affairs with a forward-looking narrative that imagines what the future of intelligence work could hold.
One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its cast of characters. The protagonist is compelling and layered, and the relationships, particularly the family dynamics, add emotional depth amidst the pulse-pounding action. The subtle thread of romance is an enjoyable addition that never overshadows the central plot.
One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its cast of characters. The protagonist is compelling and layered, and the relationships, particularly the family dynamics, add emotional depth amidst the pulse-pounding action. The subtle thread of romance is an enjoyable addition that never overshadows the central plot.
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May 3, 2026A wonderful story of a woman seeking the family she lost as a girl while navigating an attack against the U.S. that was quickly becoming catastrophic.
Ava being pulled in so many directions while putting her life in increasing danger only adds to the tension in the novel and the desire to know what is happening and how far she'll have to go to put a stop to it. There's a little something for everyone: romance, family, violence and politics.
Full disclosure: I had the privilege of having Brittany on my podcast, and knowing more about her story and how this book came together made it an even better read.
Ava being pulled in so many directions while putting her life in increasing danger only adds to the tension in the novel and the desire to know what is happening and how far she'll have to go to put a stop to it. There's a little something for everyone: romance, family, violence and politics.
Full disclosure: I had the privilege of having Brittany on my podcast, and knowing more about her story and how this book came together made it an even better read.
December 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy!
I was super excited for another edge of your seat spy thriller. The story follows the FMC, Ava from a difficult childhood through adult. Unfortunately, I felt like I needed to go back and reread some chapters because I felt like I missed something, but alas, it was just choppy. I'm unsure if the author just couldn't describe certain things that were witnessed in the CIA, but some scenes seemed a bit far fetched. The romance undertones were cringe as well.
I was super excited for another edge of your seat spy thriller. The story follows the FMC, Ava from a difficult childhood through adult. Unfortunately, I felt like I needed to go back and reread some chapters because I felt like I missed something, but alas, it was just choppy. I'm unsure if the author just couldn't describe certain things that were witnessed in the CIA, but some scenes seemed a bit far fetched. The romance undertones were cringe as well.
January 23, 2026
First of all, I would like to thank NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book. I really enjoyed the premise of the story. However, the author had me in sensory overload - this person smelled like this, a room smelled like that, an elevator had another scent. And the protagonist’s subliminally romantic feelings towards some of the characters - just too much! If the author had edited out a lot of the fluff, it would have been a better read for me. This was a story with lots of promise, but I felt let down.
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