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Verity Kent Mysteries #9
The Bravest Hour
British Intelligence Agent Verity Kent managed to survive four years of The Great War, slipping in and out of German-occupied Belgium and northeastern France, dodging serious consequences or capture. But as she faces her most dangerous—and devastating—challenge yet, her luck may have run out. Hopefully, her resilience has not . . .
November 1920. Dublin, Ireland. Verity’s efforts to foil a contemptible plot by the traitorous Lord Ardmore and save countless lives—as well as the British government’s reputation—has exposed her to detrimental scrutiny, bringing her contact with the Irish rebels to light. Crushingly, she finds herself incarcerated in Dublin Castle, the “Dread Bastille,” where she must withstand interrogation from her own countrymen.
Despite her circumstances, Verity knows better than to talk—though decrying Ardmore to his face would be more than satisfying. For once again he has escaped culpability, scapegoating his associates. Her only hope is intervention from her shadowy superior. And yet, when rescue finally comes, Verity finds herself changed by what she has endured, perhaps for the worst.
Still, there’s no time for respite or healing. Ardmore’s latest nefarious objectives go beyond mere treason. Allegiances are shifting as the war between the Irish Republican Army and the British reaches a new fever pitch. If Ardmore is to be brought down, Verity and her husband, Sidney, must gather all the allies they can for one last stand.
But just when victory seems assured, one shocking and vicious turn of events changes everything. Now Verity must decide where her loyalty lies. And it may not be on the same side as the man she’s loved to the grave and back.
November 1920. Dublin, Ireland. Verity’s efforts to foil a contemptible plot by the traitorous Lord Ardmore and save countless lives—as well as the British government’s reputation—has exposed her to detrimental scrutiny, bringing her contact with the Irish rebels to light. Crushingly, she finds herself incarcerated in Dublin Castle, the “Dread Bastille,” where she must withstand interrogation from her own countrymen.
Despite her circumstances, Verity knows better than to talk—though decrying Ardmore to his face would be more than satisfying. For once again he has escaped culpability, scapegoating his associates. Her only hope is intervention from her shadowy superior. And yet, when rescue finally comes, Verity finds herself changed by what she has endured, perhaps for the worst.
Still, there’s no time for respite or healing. Ardmore’s latest nefarious objectives go beyond mere treason. Allegiances are shifting as the war between the Irish Republican Army and the British reaches a new fever pitch. If Ardmore is to be brought down, Verity and her husband, Sidney, must gather all the allies they can for one last stand.
But just when victory seems assured, one shocking and vicious turn of events changes everything. Now Verity must decide where her loyalty lies. And it may not be on the same side as the man she’s loved to the grave and back.
384 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2026
About the author
Anna Lee Huber
29 books3,809 followersAnna Lee Huber is the USA Today bestselling and Daphne award-winning author of the Lady Darby Mysteries, the Verity Kent Mysteries, the Gothic Myths series, as well as Sisters of Fortune: A Novel of the Titanic and the anthology The Deadly Hours. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she majored in music and minored in psychology. She currently resides in Indiana with her family and is hard at work on her next novel. Visit her online at www.annaleehuber.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 2, 2026
3 ⭐s
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Anna Lee Huber is clearly a talented writer, and her attention to historical detail creates a vivid, immersive setting. While I came into this series later than I should have and hadn’t read the previous books, I was still able to follow the overall story. However, I do think my reading experience would have been stronger had I started from the beginning.
My biggest challenge was the pacing. There was a significant amount of repetition throughout the story, with the same thoughts and information revisited multiple times. At times, I felt like I could skim entire paragraphs without missing anything new, which made it difficult to stay fully engaged. Because of this, the moments of suspense and high stakes didn’t have quite the impact I was hoping for, as it took a long time to reach them.
That said, the writing itself is strong, the characters are well-developed, and it’s evident how much care went into the historical research. I think longtime fans of the series will likely appreciate this installment more than I did, especially those already invested in the characters’ journeys.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Anna Lee Huber is clearly a talented writer, and her attention to historical detail creates a vivid, immersive setting. While I came into this series later than I should have and hadn’t read the previous books, I was still able to follow the overall story. However, I do think my reading experience would have been stronger had I started from the beginning.
My biggest challenge was the pacing. There was a significant amount of repetition throughout the story, with the same thoughts and information revisited multiple times. At times, I felt like I could skim entire paragraphs without missing anything new, which made it difficult to stay fully engaged. Because of this, the moments of suspense and high stakes didn’t have quite the impact I was hoping for, as it took a long time to reach them.
That said, the writing itself is strong, the characters are well-developed, and it’s evident how much care went into the historical research. I think longtime fans of the series will likely appreciate this installment more than I did, especially those already invested in the characters’ journeys.
August 25, 2026
The Bravest Hour is the 9th book in the Verity Kent Mystery series; it's also the third book in her 3-book Dublin story arc of that same series. If you haven't read the first 6 books of the series, you can get by enough to understand what's going on without much confusion. However, I highly recommend you read the first 2 books in the Dublin arc before this one, else you will be a bit lost. This is one of the best historical mystery and thriller series ever, in my humble opinion. The stories are absolutely riveting, but it's the wonderful characters who keep me coming back for more!
November 1920. Dublin, Ireland. Verity’s efforts to foil a contemptible plot by the traitorous Lord Ardmore and save countless lives—as well as the British government’s reputation—has exposed her to detrimental scrutiny, bringing her contact with the Irish rebels to light. Crushingly, she finds herself incarcerated in Dublin Castle, the “Dread Bastille,” where she must withstand interrogation from her own countrymen.
Despite her circumstances, Verity knows better than to talk—though decrying Ardmore to his face would be more than satisfying. For once again he has escaped culpability, scapegoating his associates. Her only hope is intervention from her shadowy superior. And yet, when rescue finally comes, Verity finds herself changed by what she has endured, perhaps for the worst. Still, there’s no time for respite or healing. Ardmore’s latest nefarious objectives go beyond mere treason. Allegiances are shifting as the war between the Irish Republican Army and the British reaches a new fever pitch. If Ardmore is to be brought down, Verity and her husband, Sidney, must gather all the allies they can for one last stand. But just when victory seems assured, one shocking and vicious turn of events changes everything. Now Verity must decide where her loyalty lies. And it may not be on the same side as the man she’s loved to the grave and back.
At the end of A Moment's Shadow, Verity was arrested by her own countrymen and government when her interactions with the Irish rebels comes to light. Talk about a cliffhanger! I was thankful I was able to start reading this book the following day to keep the momentum going. I've loved all of the books I've read, but this one was my favorite, by far. I didn't want to put this one down until I was done; who needs sleep?! When Verity is arrested by the British, she is beaten and tortured - by her own countrymen, mind you - until her husband and friends manage to get her released. But there's a condition of her release; she and Sidney are not permitted to leave Ireland until they help the British get custody of Michael Collins, the leader of the IRA (and a real person, if you're not too familiar with the Irish Revolution after the Great War). That's quite a demand! Also, both Verity and Sidney have sympathy with the Irish rebels, which makes this assignment even more difficult for them. Not only do they have to deal with that, but Lord Ardmore makes an appearance again. He wasn't successful in his attempt to cause mass destruction and death with his phosgene, which Verity put a stop to, but he now has another plot in mind. This time he plans to use gelignite, which is a powerful, moldable high explosive similar to dynamite. Will they be able to find the location of where it will be planted before hundreds or thousands of people are killed? I just love Verity and Sidney! They are two of my favorite historical mystery characters of all time. At the beginning of the series, Verity discovers that Sidney wasn't actually killed in the war, but he left her in the dark while he was hunting a traitor. So the two of them are working to get their relationship back in order. They are doing a great job and deeply love each other, but this fraught time in Dublin has brought some doubts about each other; Sidney was apparently hiding something, and Verity was keeping some things to herself, as well. I adored how hard they fought for their marriage during this difficult period. We also had the pleasure of spending time with Alec (who has changed sides and now is with the rebels), their dear friend Max (whose father had ties with the evil Ardmore), George (a mathematical genius, and of course Nimble (Sidney's former batman and now a faithful employee). The ending of this book was exciting, and I loved every minute of it. I see some people believe this is the end of the series, and others think it's just the Dublin arc is finished. I so hope the series continues, but if it doesn't, we are left with a satisfying conclusion here. If you love historical mysteries with strong characters you can root for, this is the series for you.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
November 1920. Dublin, Ireland. Verity’s efforts to foil a contemptible plot by the traitorous Lord Ardmore and save countless lives—as well as the British government’s reputation—has exposed her to detrimental scrutiny, bringing her contact with the Irish rebels to light. Crushingly, she finds herself incarcerated in Dublin Castle, the “Dread Bastille,” where she must withstand interrogation from her own countrymen.
Despite her circumstances, Verity knows better than to talk—though decrying Ardmore to his face would be more than satisfying. For once again he has escaped culpability, scapegoating his associates. Her only hope is intervention from her shadowy superior. And yet, when rescue finally comes, Verity finds herself changed by what she has endured, perhaps for the worst. Still, there’s no time for respite or healing. Ardmore’s latest nefarious objectives go beyond mere treason. Allegiances are shifting as the war between the Irish Republican Army and the British reaches a new fever pitch. If Ardmore is to be brought down, Verity and her husband, Sidney, must gather all the allies they can for one last stand. But just when victory seems assured, one shocking and vicious turn of events changes everything. Now Verity must decide where her loyalty lies. And it may not be on the same side as the man she’s loved to the grave and back.
At the end of A Moment's Shadow, Verity was arrested by her own countrymen and government when her interactions with the Irish rebels comes to light. Talk about a cliffhanger! I was thankful I was able to start reading this book the following day to keep the momentum going. I've loved all of the books I've read, but this one was my favorite, by far. I didn't want to put this one down until I was done; who needs sleep?! When Verity is arrested by the British, she is beaten and tortured - by her own countrymen, mind you - until her husband and friends manage to get her released. But there's a condition of her release; she and Sidney are not permitted to leave Ireland until they help the British get custody of Michael Collins, the leader of the IRA (and a real person, if you're not too familiar with the Irish Revolution after the Great War). That's quite a demand! Also, both Verity and Sidney have sympathy with the Irish rebels, which makes this assignment even more difficult for them. Not only do they have to deal with that, but Lord Ardmore makes an appearance again. He wasn't successful in his attempt to cause mass destruction and death with his phosgene, which Verity put a stop to, but he now has another plot in mind. This time he plans to use gelignite, which is a powerful, moldable high explosive similar to dynamite. Will they be able to find the location of where it will be planted before hundreds or thousands of people are killed? I just love Verity and Sidney! They are two of my favorite historical mystery characters of all time. At the beginning of the series, Verity discovers that Sidney wasn't actually killed in the war, but he left her in the dark while he was hunting a traitor. So the two of them are working to get their relationship back in order. They are doing a great job and deeply love each other, but this fraught time in Dublin has brought some doubts about each other; Sidney was apparently hiding something, and Verity was keeping some things to herself, as well. I adored how hard they fought for their marriage during this difficult period. We also had the pleasure of spending time with Alec (who has changed sides and now is with the rebels), their dear friend Max (whose father had ties with the evil Ardmore), George (a mathematical genius, and of course Nimble (Sidney's former batman and now a faithful employee). The ending of this book was exciting, and I loved every minute of it. I see some people believe this is the end of the series, and others think it's just the Dublin arc is finished. I so hope the series continues, but if it doesn't, we are left with a satisfying conclusion here. If you love historical mysteries with strong characters you can root for, this is the series for you.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Verity Kent Mysteries #9
Publication Date: 8/25/26
Period: Interwar 1920, Dublin, Ireland
Number of Pages: 384
Loved it!
The Bravest Hour is the ninth and final entry in Anna Lee Huber’s Verity Kent Mystery series, providing a satisfying conclusion to the series as a whole and a fitting wrap-up to the Ireland-based portion of Verity and Sydney’s story. That said, I would strongly recommend reading the previous books before beginning this one. There is so much character history, relationship development, and ongoing storyline woven throughout the series that you will gain much more from this book if you have followed Verity and Sydney’s journey from the beginning. If you don’t want to start with the first book, I would highly recommend beginning with The Cold Light of Day, which launches the Ireland portion of the series.
The previous book brought the phosgene gas plot to a resolution, but Ardmore escaped, leaving Verity and Sydney with unfinished business. In The Bravest Hour, Ardmore continues his dangerous schemes while Verity finds herself imprisoned and subjected to torture. Huber skillfully interweaves their personal struggle with the turbulent history of Ireland as the country fights for independence. The result is a story filled with danger, suspense, political intrigue, and emotional complexity.
One of the things I particularly appreciated was the way Huber portrays the conflicting feelings of both Verity and Sydney. They are loyal to their country, but at the same time, they cannot condone the atrocities committed against the Irish people who are fighting for their freedom. Their feelings are not presented as simple or black-and-white, and this adds considerable depth to both the characters and the story. Their love for each other and their determination to protect one another remain at the heart of the book, even as circumstances continue to put them in impossible situations.
The mystery and suspense kept the story moving, and it was satisfying to see the various loose ends tied up, the villain finally foiled, and the heroes receive their due. After following these characters through so many adventures, it was especially rewarding to see how much they have grown and how their relationships have developed throughout the series.
Of course, being a longtime reader of a series means that I always want *just a little more* when it comes to saying goodbye to characters I have come to care about. There were a couple of things I would have loved to see. I would have appreciated an epilogue—perhaps at Christmas the following year—with all the friends reunited. I would have enjoyed seeing Max, Alex, and George together again, with Max and Alex bringing love interests, and I would have especially liked to meet George’s romantic interest. And, naturally, I wouldn’t have objected to seeing Verity expecting!
Those are small wishes, however, and they don't diminish my enjoyment of the book or the series. I have thoroughly enjoyed the Verity Kent Mysteries. Each book has been an entertaining and engaging read while also deepening the characters and their relationships. Verity and Sydney have become characters I will genuinely miss, and I am sad to see their story come to an end.
I will definitely be watching for news of whatever series Anna Lee Huber decides to introduce next. Whatever comes next, I’ll be there to read it!
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Verity Kent Mysteries #9
Publication Date: 8/25/26
Period: Interwar 1920, Dublin, Ireland
Number of Pages: 384
Loved it!
The Bravest Hour is the ninth and final entry in Anna Lee Huber’s Verity Kent Mystery series, providing a satisfying conclusion to the series as a whole and a fitting wrap-up to the Ireland-based portion of Verity and Sydney’s story. That said, I would strongly recommend reading the previous books before beginning this one. There is so much character history, relationship development, and ongoing storyline woven throughout the series that you will gain much more from this book if you have followed Verity and Sydney’s journey from the beginning. If you don’t want to start with the first book, I would highly recommend beginning with The Cold Light of Day, which launches the Ireland portion of the series.
The previous book brought the phosgene gas plot to a resolution, but Ardmore escaped, leaving Verity and Sydney with unfinished business. In The Bravest Hour, Ardmore continues his dangerous schemes while Verity finds herself imprisoned and subjected to torture. Huber skillfully interweaves their personal struggle with the turbulent history of Ireland as the country fights for independence. The result is a story filled with danger, suspense, political intrigue, and emotional complexity.
One of the things I particularly appreciated was the way Huber portrays the conflicting feelings of both Verity and Sydney. They are loyal to their country, but at the same time, they cannot condone the atrocities committed against the Irish people who are fighting for their freedom. Their feelings are not presented as simple or black-and-white, and this adds considerable depth to both the characters and the story. Their love for each other and their determination to protect one another remain at the heart of the book, even as circumstances continue to put them in impossible situations.
The mystery and suspense kept the story moving, and it was satisfying to see the various loose ends tied up, the villain finally foiled, and the heroes receive their due. After following these characters through so many adventures, it was especially rewarding to see how much they have grown and how their relationships have developed throughout the series.
Of course, being a longtime reader of a series means that I always want *just a little more* when it comes to saying goodbye to characters I have come to care about. There were a couple of things I would have loved to see. I would have appreciated an epilogue—perhaps at Christmas the following year—with all the friends reunited. I would have enjoyed seeing Max, Alex, and George together again, with Max and Alex bringing love interests, and I would have especially liked to meet George’s romantic interest. And, naturally, I wouldn’t have objected to seeing Verity expecting!
Those are small wishes, however, and they don't diminish my enjoyment of the book or the series. I have thoroughly enjoyed the Verity Kent Mysteries. Each book has been an entertaining and engaging read while also deepening the characters and their relationships. Verity and Sydney have become characters I will genuinely miss, and I am sad to see their story come to an end.
I will definitely be watching for news of whatever series Anna Lee Huber decides to introduce next. Whatever comes next, I’ll be there to read it!
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This vibrant, final novel in its series is bittersweet. After The Great War, Verity and her husband, Sidney Kent, a war hero and Victoria Cross recipient, were sent to Dublin. Verity, an intelligence agent during the war, would conduct unofficial investigations amidst the Irish War of Independence, including a search for her missing colleague of Britain’s Secret Service Bureau, and a shipment of deadly phosgene gas that was in the hands of the Irish Republican Army. They also sought evidence against Verity’s nemesis, Lord Ardmore, the British officer behind several murders and the theft of poisonous gas. They learned where the gas was, and successfully stopped it from being weaponized. Targets included the Irish rebelling against British rule and the British officials stationed in Dublin.
Verity was much more than a beautiful young English socialite. She was intelligent, courageous, and resolved crises with grit and determination. Verity loved her home country of Great Britain, and served the bureau with excellence. Sidney, a valued military asset, had also served in the war. He had been shot and left for dead, then served undercover for almost two years by letting everyone believe he was dead – including Verity.
After the near-release of phosgene, Verity was arrested – for treason! British intel and military officers in Ireland claimed she was seen consorting with the enemy. She was being taken to the “Dread Bastille” at Dublin Castle, where the British military was headquartered. Many of the men detained in the guardroom that night were Irish. They treated Verity very kindly, even circling their makeshift beds around her for her safety.
Sidney called and sent wires to every possible connection in an attempt to get her out. He knew the horrors done under the guise of interrogation, but could not get her released in time to escape it. When she was released, there were conditions to meet, including remaining in Ireland until they said she could leave. She had to learn the IRA’s plans and where Mick Collins, the head of the Irish Republican Army, was holed up. They wanted proof of her loyalty to them.
Verity’s intel partner during the war was Captain Alec Xavier. They became the closest of friends with a profound loyalty to each other. He had to go deep undercover with the IRA, and he understood and sympathized with them. He had unofficially switched sides, and was thought to be dead. Verity knew otherwise.
Then came the day that Verity learned she was on a hit list.
I will miss Verity and Sidney! The characters have grown throughout the series, especially when they worked together in Dublin. Their future plans came as a pleasant surprise. I’ve learned some Irish history and even spent time online to better understand their war. If one is new to this series, it may enrich one’s experience to start with earlier adventures in the series. While there is sufficient backstory included in this novel, a reader’s appreciation would be fuller with more background of the Kents, or at least the novels in which they were in Dublin. I highly recommend this novel, which wraps up the series in good order (and series)! Thank you to the author for providing many hours of good times and drama with Verity, and getting to know the people of Ireland better through the eyes of the author and her very dedicated, loyal protagonist.
Many thanks to the publisher, Kensington, who provided a pre-publication copy of this novel through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
Verity was much more than a beautiful young English socialite. She was intelligent, courageous, and resolved crises with grit and determination. Verity loved her home country of Great Britain, and served the bureau with excellence. Sidney, a valued military asset, had also served in the war. He had been shot and left for dead, then served undercover for almost two years by letting everyone believe he was dead – including Verity.
After the near-release of phosgene, Verity was arrested – for treason! British intel and military officers in Ireland claimed she was seen consorting with the enemy. She was being taken to the “Dread Bastille” at Dublin Castle, where the British military was headquartered. Many of the men detained in the guardroom that night were Irish. They treated Verity very kindly, even circling their makeshift beds around her for her safety.
Sidney called and sent wires to every possible connection in an attempt to get her out. He knew the horrors done under the guise of interrogation, but could not get her released in time to escape it. When she was released, there were conditions to meet, including remaining in Ireland until they said she could leave. She had to learn the IRA’s plans and where Mick Collins, the head of the Irish Republican Army, was holed up. They wanted proof of her loyalty to them.
Verity’s intel partner during the war was Captain Alec Xavier. They became the closest of friends with a profound loyalty to each other. He had to go deep undercover with the IRA, and he understood and sympathized with them. He had unofficially switched sides, and was thought to be dead. Verity knew otherwise.
Then came the day that Verity learned she was on a hit list.
I will miss Verity and Sidney! The characters have grown throughout the series, especially when they worked together in Dublin. Their future plans came as a pleasant surprise. I’ve learned some Irish history and even spent time online to better understand their war. If one is new to this series, it may enrich one’s experience to start with earlier adventures in the series. While there is sufficient backstory included in this novel, a reader’s appreciation would be fuller with more background of the Kents, or at least the novels in which they were in Dublin. I highly recommend this novel, which wraps up the series in good order (and series)! Thank you to the author for providing many hours of good times and drama with Verity, and getting to know the people of Ireland better through the eyes of the author and her very dedicated, loyal protagonist.
Many thanks to the publisher, Kensington, who provided a pre-publication copy of this novel through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's not always the case that the final book in a beloved series wraps up both satisfying to its reader but also holding true to itself. I've been a fan of the Verity Kent series from its inception and was disappointed to hear of her swan song, but I was happy to discover that Huber had her heroine bow out at the top of her game reuniting with some beloved familiar faces throughout the nine-book series and tying up some loose ends.
This particular book was more poignant to me as it paid tribute to the Irish people in their bloody struggles with the British for their own autonomy. Having Verity and other characters second-guessing and questioning their own government allegiances was a massive undertaking for an author, but Huber with her always stellar historical research, found ways to show this heart wrenching dichotomy in some very visceral ways. This story felt much more "real" because it didn't shy away from showing the ugly and brutal aspects of that period of time and place.
This series has been a joy to read for several reasons. As I've mentioned, the historical research was always spot on and always left me with tidbits of information that I wasn't aware of. The writing was beautiful, flowed smoothly and just a pleasure to sit down with. World-building as far as locales were concerned were wonderfully descriptive and again, informative. The stories themselves were intriguing and kept me entertained and riveted for hours. But for me it was the characters who were the leading force for me in making this one of my favorite auto-buy series of books. Huber imagined and developed a rich set of players (both main and side, both forces of good and evil) that carried the stories so perfectly on their shoulders. Verity was a revelation...as a grieving widow, an intrepid spy, a fiercely brave woman, but ultimately just as a flawed human trying to do some good in the world. While she and Sidney were not always perfect (and I was not always enamored with their actions/choices), their hearts were always in the right place.
The wrap up for this book seemed a bit abrupt, but in hindsight, I think that may have more to do with me as a fan wanting to wring out every last drop from it...and not having to say that final goodbye. Would I have liked to see into the futures of some of my favorite characters? Yes. But there's also some excitement in the unknown as well. Huber's HEA in this case was well done and seemed more in the spirit of the series as a whole.
If you haven't discovered this series, I urge you to give it a try if you enjoy historical mysteries with a dash of romance. I do recommend that it be read in order so pick up This Side of Murder if you're interested.
My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing / Kensington for providing the free early arc of The Bravest Hour for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
This particular book was more poignant to me as it paid tribute to the Irish people in their bloody struggles with the British for their own autonomy. Having Verity and other characters second-guessing and questioning their own government allegiances was a massive undertaking for an author, but Huber with her always stellar historical research, found ways to show this heart wrenching dichotomy in some very visceral ways. This story felt much more "real" because it didn't shy away from showing the ugly and brutal aspects of that period of time and place.
This series has been a joy to read for several reasons. As I've mentioned, the historical research was always spot on and always left me with tidbits of information that I wasn't aware of. The writing was beautiful, flowed smoothly and just a pleasure to sit down with. World-building as far as locales were concerned were wonderfully descriptive and again, informative. The stories themselves were intriguing and kept me entertained and riveted for hours. But for me it was the characters who were the leading force for me in making this one of my favorite auto-buy series of books. Huber imagined and developed a rich set of players (both main and side, both forces of good and evil) that carried the stories so perfectly on their shoulders. Verity was a revelation...as a grieving widow, an intrepid spy, a fiercely brave woman, but ultimately just as a flawed human trying to do some good in the world. While she and Sidney were not always perfect (and I was not always enamored with their actions/choices), their hearts were always in the right place.
The wrap up for this book seemed a bit abrupt, but in hindsight, I think that may have more to do with me as a fan wanting to wring out every last drop from it...and not having to say that final goodbye. Would I have liked to see into the futures of some of my favorite characters? Yes. But there's also some excitement in the unknown as well. Huber's HEA in this case was well done and seemed more in the spirit of the series as a whole.
If you haven't discovered this series, I urge you to give it a try if you enjoy historical mysteries with a dash of romance. I do recommend that it be read in order so pick up This Side of Murder if you're interested.
My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing / Kensington for providing the free early arc of The Bravest Hour for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
August 26, 2026
A British spy's loyalties are tested during the Irish struggles
During the Great War British socialite Verity Kent worked as an agent for British intelligence, risking her life on missions in France and Belgium, at the time believing her husband Sidney had been killed in action, When the war ended, she and women who had worked as she had were demobbed...it wasn't really women's work, after all...but Verity, happily reunited with Sidney (not dead after all) has since been called upon from time to time to aid in cases, often in conjunction with her husband. They can mingle in social circles and travel to places that others cannot, Most recently they have been asked to travel to Ireland, where Michael Collins and the Republicans are clashing with the British government. There is a highly placed traitor whose actions the couple is trying to reveal but, while they have foiled some of his plots, he himself has eluded detection. Verity finds herself imprisoned in Dublin Castle for her alleged involvement with members of the Irish rebellion, and although she is ultimately released she remains scarred by her ordeal there and more sympathetic to the Irish bucking British rule. The violence throughout the country keeps escalating, it is difficult to know who if anyone can be trusted, and Verity will find she must choose with which side her loyalties truly lie...and it may put her at odds with her husband's views.
The Bravest Hour is the ninth outing for author Anna Lee Huber's resourceful and determined protagonist, and the last in a trilogy specifically set in Ireland during the social upheavals of 1920. It combines historical fiction and elements of an espionage thriller with a bit of romance threaded through. While it is definitely a work of fiction, it is clear that the author has done a great deal of research to bring to life both the setting and the time period as well as the complex nature of the Irish quest for Home Rule. Verity is as smart as she is stylish, brave if at times too impulsive, and is determined as she tries to bring the nasty Lord Ardmore to justice. Although it can be read as a standalone it would be much more impactful to be read after at least the two prior books to fully understand the relationships between the characters and the events that brought Verity and Sidney to this point. I throughly enjoyed the whole trilogy (as well as the earlier books in the series), and found that it wrapped up the various plot lines very well. Its a strong 4+ ⭐️ though not quite a 5 for me, and will be well received by fans of the series. Readers of Susan Elia MacNeal, Jacqueline Winspear and Kate Quinn should also add this to their TBR list. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to the book in exchange for my honest review,
During the Great War British socialite Verity Kent worked as an agent for British intelligence, risking her life on missions in France and Belgium, at the time believing her husband Sidney had been killed in action, When the war ended, she and women who had worked as she had were demobbed...it wasn't really women's work, after all...but Verity, happily reunited with Sidney (not dead after all) has since been called upon from time to time to aid in cases, often in conjunction with her husband. They can mingle in social circles and travel to places that others cannot, Most recently they have been asked to travel to Ireland, where Michael Collins and the Republicans are clashing with the British government. There is a highly placed traitor whose actions the couple is trying to reveal but, while they have foiled some of his plots, he himself has eluded detection. Verity finds herself imprisoned in Dublin Castle for her alleged involvement with members of the Irish rebellion, and although she is ultimately released she remains scarred by her ordeal there and more sympathetic to the Irish bucking British rule. The violence throughout the country keeps escalating, it is difficult to know who if anyone can be trusted, and Verity will find she must choose with which side her loyalties truly lie...and it may put her at odds with her husband's views.
The Bravest Hour is the ninth outing for author Anna Lee Huber's resourceful and determined protagonist, and the last in a trilogy specifically set in Ireland during the social upheavals of 1920. It combines historical fiction and elements of an espionage thriller with a bit of romance threaded through. While it is definitely a work of fiction, it is clear that the author has done a great deal of research to bring to life both the setting and the time period as well as the complex nature of the Irish quest for Home Rule. Verity is as smart as she is stylish, brave if at times too impulsive, and is determined as she tries to bring the nasty Lord Ardmore to justice. Although it can be read as a standalone it would be much more impactful to be read after at least the two prior books to fully understand the relationships between the characters and the events that brought Verity and Sidney to this point. I throughly enjoyed the whole trilogy (as well as the earlier books in the series), and found that it wrapped up the various plot lines very well. Its a strong 4+ ⭐️ though not quite a 5 for me, and will be well received by fans of the series. Readers of Susan Elia MacNeal, Jacqueline Winspear and Kate Quinn should also add this to their TBR list. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to the book in exchange for my honest review,
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I'm sad that this series is ending--especially because it feels like it had so much potential for new and ongoing storylines--but overall this was a strong finish. Although the book is set entirely in Ireland once again, Huber strikes a much better balance here of centering the story on Verity and Sidney while working in the historical details of events leading up to Ireland's independence. The book desperately needed an epilogue because the ending was very abrupt and left some characters' fates unknown or cryptically addressed, but overall I felt like it was a satisfying ending.
The story picks up immediately from the ending of book 8, with Verity being hauled into the Castle to be interrogated about her role in stopping the release of the phosgene gas. Her arch-nemesis, Ardmore, once again has managed to escape blame and weaponizes his insider co-conspirators against Verity. The brutality of the English forces is put on full display here, with some graphic and intense scenes as Verity is tortured and wrongfully imprisoned. Eventually, Verity is given a conditional release but is forced to do the bidding of the British government one more time in helping to take down Michael Collins and his crew--which, given Verity's conflicted loyalties, is impossible to do.
As with the last two books, there is a nominal murder mystery that Verity and Sidney are asked to solve, but that murder--and the story as a whole--really revolves around bringing Ardmore down once and for all. Probably because I knew going into it that this was the last book, I was less frustrated with the extreme focus on Ardmore here. He has been like a cat with nine lives and kept popping back up throughout the series, but (as I assume most readers expect) we finally get some closure here. There is an attempt at explaining his motivations and what his real goals have been all along, but it felt like a weak explanation after all that we've seen him do throughout the series.
The book also partly addresses one of my complaints about the last few books by at least bringing Max and George (Verity's cryptographer/codebreaking friend) over to Ireland. As someone who has been Team Max from book 1, I'm glad we at least got a little more time with him--though at times his characterization (and Verity's treatment of him) felt at odds with prior books. I will hold on to my delusional hope that Max some day will get a spin-off series.
Overall, despite some bumps along the way in the last three books, this has been a fantastic series and one I will highly recommend to historical mystery fans.
Thank you to Kensington and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review!
The story picks up immediately from the ending of book 8, with Verity being hauled into the Castle to be interrogated about her role in stopping the release of the phosgene gas. Her arch-nemesis, Ardmore, once again has managed to escape blame and weaponizes his insider co-conspirators against Verity. The brutality of the English forces is put on full display here, with some graphic and intense scenes as Verity is tortured and wrongfully imprisoned. Eventually, Verity is given a conditional release but is forced to do the bidding of the British government one more time in helping to take down Michael Collins and his crew--which, given Verity's conflicted loyalties, is impossible to do.
As with the last two books, there is a nominal murder mystery that Verity and Sidney are asked to solve, but that murder--and the story as a whole--really revolves around bringing Ardmore down once and for all. Probably because I knew going into it that this was the last book, I was less frustrated with the extreme focus on Ardmore here. He has been like a cat with nine lives and kept popping back up throughout the series, but (as I assume most readers expect) we finally get some closure here. There is an attempt at explaining his motivations and what his real goals have been all along, but it felt like a weak explanation after all that we've seen him do throughout the series.
The book also partly addresses one of my complaints about the last few books by at least bringing Max and George (Verity's cryptographer/codebreaking friend) over to Ireland. As someone who has been Team Max from book 1, I'm glad we at least got a little more time with him--though at times his characterization (and Verity's treatment of him) felt at odds with prior books. I will hold on to my delusional hope that Max some day will get a spin-off series.
Overall, despite some bumps along the way in the last three books, this has been a fantastic series and one I will highly recommend to historical mystery fans.
Thank you to Kensington and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5/5 stars: This is Huber's ninth entry in Verity Kent Mystery series which is a Historical Mystery set in Ireland, 1920. Featuring a former British Secret Service agent and her husband who's triumph at foiling a traitorous lord's plot has exposed her to detrimental scrutiny, bringing her contact with the Irish rebels to light. Leading her to be incarcerated and then having to withstand interrogation from her own countrymen. When rescue finally comes, she's tasked with spying on Michael Collins and the IRA for the crown. Allegiances are shifting and they soon learn their nemesis's latest nefarious objectives go beyond mere treason. If he's to be brought down, she and her husband, must gather all their allies to take him down once and for all. But then one shocking and vicious turn of events changes everything. Now she must decide where her loyalty lies. And it may not be on the same side as the man she’s loved to the grave and back.
With plenty of twists and turns, Huber has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects and weaves in plenty of clues and red herrings that will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Smart and witty, Huber's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded, uniquely voiced and complex while remaining likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced. Ashley's historical research's evident and well done without overshadowing the overall mystery plot and provides a great sense of time and place.
Huber touches on some sensitive topics; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, This Side of Murder. Huber so nailed the conclusion of this three book over-arcing plot; highly recommend!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and ARC provided by Kensington Publishing | Kensington in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
With plenty of twists and turns, Huber has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects and weaves in plenty of clues and red herrings that will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Smart and witty, Huber's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded, uniquely voiced and complex while remaining likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced. Ashley's historical research's evident and well done without overshadowing the overall mystery plot and provides a great sense of time and place.
Huber touches on some sensitive topics; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, This Side of Murder. Huber so nailed the conclusion of this three book over-arcing plot; highly recommend!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and ARC provided by Kensington Publishing | Kensington in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Anna Lee Huber’s The Bravest Hour had me sitting with my coffee a little longer than planned because once Verity Kent landed inside Dublin Castle, I needed to know how she was getting herself out of this one. Thank you to Kensington Books for the early copy. Do you ever reach the final book in a series and realize you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to people you’ve been through so much with?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is book nine in the Verity Kent Mysteries, and it picks up with Verity in a truly awful position. She’s being held and questioned by her own countrymen, Lord Ardmore is somehow still managing to cause trouble, and the situation in Ireland is getting more dangerous by the minute.
What got me most was Verity herself. She has survived a war, espionage, betrayal, and more than one situation where any reasonable person would have said, “You know what? I’m going home.” But this time felt different. What happens to her at Dublin Castle leaves a mark, and I appreciated that she couldn’t simply shake it off and continue as if nothing happened.
Then there’s Sidney. These two have been tested over and over, but here the questions aren’t only about survival. They’re asking themselves who deserves their loyalty and what happens when doing what you’re told no longer feels like doing what’s right. That made their choices feel much more personal.
The Ireland setting is fascinating but also heartbreaking. There are shifting alliances, secrets everywhere, real historical figures mixed into the story, and absolutely no easy side to stand on. I found myself understanding why Verity became increasingly uncomfortable with the answers everyone around her seemed so certain about.
And Ardmore? That man has had more lives than one of my cats. I have been waiting for this showdown for what feels like forever.
Knowing this is the end made The Bravest Hour bittersweet, but I liked where Huber left Verity and Sidney. After everything these two have survived, I desperately wanted them to have a little peace.
What series ending has made you genuinely sad to leave the characters behind?
#TheBravestHour #AnnaLeeHuber #VerityKent #HistoricalMystery #HistoricalFiction #KensingtonBooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is book nine in the Verity Kent Mysteries, and it picks up with Verity in a truly awful position. She’s being held and questioned by her own countrymen, Lord Ardmore is somehow still managing to cause trouble, and the situation in Ireland is getting more dangerous by the minute.
What got me most was Verity herself. She has survived a war, espionage, betrayal, and more than one situation where any reasonable person would have said, “You know what? I’m going home.” But this time felt different. What happens to her at Dublin Castle leaves a mark, and I appreciated that she couldn’t simply shake it off and continue as if nothing happened.
Then there’s Sidney. These two have been tested over and over, but here the questions aren’t only about survival. They’re asking themselves who deserves their loyalty and what happens when doing what you’re told no longer feels like doing what’s right. That made their choices feel much more personal.
The Ireland setting is fascinating but also heartbreaking. There are shifting alliances, secrets everywhere, real historical figures mixed into the story, and absolutely no easy side to stand on. I found myself understanding why Verity became increasingly uncomfortable with the answers everyone around her seemed so certain about.
And Ardmore? That man has had more lives than one of my cats. I have been waiting for this showdown for what feels like forever.
Knowing this is the end made The Bravest Hour bittersweet, but I liked where Huber left Verity and Sidney. After everything these two have survived, I desperately wanted them to have a little peace.
What series ending has made you genuinely sad to leave the characters behind?
#TheBravestHour #AnnaLeeHuber #VerityKent #HistoricalMystery #HistoricalFiction #KensingtonBooks
August 25, 2026
The Bravest Hour by Anna Lee Huber finds Sidney and Verity Kent still in Ireland, during the troubles. Worse yet, Verity has been arrested and it was not a pleasant experience. She was there for five days, first in general lockup, then in a gruesome cell, and next in a decent room. While she was being “questioned,” the questioner slapped her several times and punched her in the stomach, hard, twice. Finally Sidney arrived to take her home. These people were supposedly on the same side she worked for. Another knife in the belly of her faith in her government. The next several weeks were colored by the troubles absorbing the entire country. Her friend, Alec, appeared several times both out of concern and with warnings and sometimes, information. With his warning, they were not at home on “Bloody Sunday,” when fifteen British operatives were killed and more injured. The Kents were recalled to the Castle where they were questioned about their actions during the attacks.
Verity has been an operative for years, having worked in Europe during the Great War. For months Verity had thought Sidney was dead and when he reappeared, it took some work to rebuild their marriage. Now, they were happy with one another, although Sidney spent a lot of time worrying about his wife, who tended to get over involved with things, often bad things. She is a great character, independent for the time. She uses common sense in her choices as often as she can. This was an engrossing story, set during tortured times. It was a clear picture on the edges of the real tragedies that were taking place all over Ireland. Excellent story. Good plot, intertwining this fictional characters with real life.
I was invited to read The Bravest Hour by Kensington Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #KensingtonPublishing #AnnaLeeHuber #TheBravestHour
Verity has been an operative for years, having worked in Europe during the Great War. For months Verity had thought Sidney was dead and when he reappeared, it took some work to rebuild their marriage. Now, they were happy with one another, although Sidney spent a lot of time worrying about his wife, who tended to get over involved with things, often bad things. She is a great character, independent for the time. She uses common sense in her choices as often as she can. This was an engrossing story, set during tortured times. It was a clear picture on the edges of the real tragedies that were taking place all over Ireland. Excellent story. Good plot, intertwining this fictional characters with real life.
I was invited to read The Bravest Hour by Kensington Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #KensingtonPublishing #AnnaLeeHuber #TheBravestHour
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Honest review of this advanced digital copy from Netgalley
Open scene to Verity Kent, former war spy and current British Intelligence operative, imprisoned in Dublin Castle and interrogated by her fellow countrymen. Who would've thought? It's 1920 in Dublin, and the city is the deadeye for the Irish War for Independence. Verity and Sidney Kent have stayed on orders from headquaters to track down a missing operative and former friend of Verity's to see if he is dead or worse... defected to the Irish Republican Army. Their investigation has led them into the crosshairs of Lord Ardmore, a vile creature looking out for his own gain, who has framed Verity to have conspired with the "enemy." Her release is conditional: infiltrate and gain knowledge on the IRA and its leader, Michael Collins, or else. So, the Kents embark on their most perilous assignment yet. The question remains: Will they remain true to themselves or betray their country?
This book signals the last book of the Kents in Ireland, with more to come elsewhere. I found the last few books to be... a little biased when it came to Verity realizing the nation she loves so much was also committing Nazi-level crimes they once fought so hard against. It also remains one-sided in the crimes of the IRA to the British citizens, agents, and even their own people. It's much more of a story than an underdog nation fighting back.
Regardless, I found the action-crime elements to be entertaining and the various motives that come about during a war.
We haven't seen Verity with a close female compatriot in a while, it would be so much fun to see a girlfriend from her past that can keep up with her, and even surpass her in wits. Enough dudes on paper LOL
Looking forward to seeing what else the Kents have in store.
Open scene to Verity Kent, former war spy and current British Intelligence operative, imprisoned in Dublin Castle and interrogated by her fellow countrymen. Who would've thought? It's 1920 in Dublin, and the city is the deadeye for the Irish War for Independence. Verity and Sidney Kent have stayed on orders from headquaters to track down a missing operative and former friend of Verity's to see if he is dead or worse... defected to the Irish Republican Army. Their investigation has led them into the crosshairs of Lord Ardmore, a vile creature looking out for his own gain, who has framed Verity to have conspired with the "enemy." Her release is conditional: infiltrate and gain knowledge on the IRA and its leader, Michael Collins, or else. So, the Kents embark on their most perilous assignment yet. The question remains: Will they remain true to themselves or betray their country?
This book signals the last book of the Kents in Ireland, with more to come elsewhere. I found the last few books to be... a little biased when it came to Verity realizing the nation she loves so much was also committing Nazi-level crimes they once fought so hard against. It also remains one-sided in the crimes of the IRA to the British citizens, agents, and even their own people. It's much more of a story than an underdog nation fighting back.
Regardless, I found the action-crime elements to be entertaining and the various motives that come about during a war.
We haven't seen Verity with a close female compatriot in a while, it would be so much fun to see a girlfriend from her past that can keep up with her, and even surpass her in wits. Enough dudes on paper LOL
Looking forward to seeing what else the Kents have in store.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the third book in the Dublin story arc and begins with Verity arrested by the British who think she is working with the rebels. While she is being questioned and tortured, Sidney is pulling every string he can to get her released. Since Verity doesn't trust any of the British government in Ireland, she is determined not to tell them anything. And then there is the Official Secrets Act she signed while she was an intelligence agent during World War 1.
Sidney does manage to get Verity out of the clutches of those in Dublin Castle, but concessions have been made. She and Sidney need to help them find Michael Collins who is leading the Irish revolt against the British government, and they can't leave Dublin until they do.
Meanwhile, their enemy Lord Ardmore is still hatching his nefarious plots and generally causing discord in Ireland. Sidney and Verity are determined to find the evidence to bring him to justice. The more Sidney and Verity get involved with finding proof of Ardmore's treason and the more they become invested in the Irish cause, Verity especially wonders if her loyalty to Britain has been misplaced. She suffers a real crisis on conscience in this story.
I enjoyed the historical detail about events in Dublin during 1920. It was packed with intriguing detail and included of a cast of actual historical figures along with other characters to suit the needs of the story.
I thought this one brought the three-book arc to a satisfying conclusion and left Verity and Sidney is a good place. Fans of the series will breathe a sigh of relief at the end.
Sidney does manage to get Verity out of the clutches of those in Dublin Castle, but concessions have been made. She and Sidney need to help them find Michael Collins who is leading the Irish revolt against the British government, and they can't leave Dublin until they do.
Meanwhile, their enemy Lord Ardmore is still hatching his nefarious plots and generally causing discord in Ireland. Sidney and Verity are determined to find the evidence to bring him to justice. The more Sidney and Verity get involved with finding proof of Ardmore's treason and the more they become invested in the Irish cause, Verity especially wonders if her loyalty to Britain has been misplaced. She suffers a real crisis on conscience in this story.
I enjoyed the historical detail about events in Dublin during 1920. It was packed with intriguing detail and included of a cast of actual historical figures along with other characters to suit the needs of the story.
I thought this one brought the three-book arc to a satisfying conclusion and left Verity and Sidney is a good place. Fans of the series will breathe a sigh of relief at the end.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
THE BRAVEST HOUR captured me with the Irish rebels, the spies, and double-dealings—I was on the edge of my seat!
Genre: Mystery, Historical Mystery, Ireland
Violence Level: It's more off-page than on, but the consequences will be huge if Verity cannot solve the mystery.
Format: #9 in the Verity Kent Mysteries
Verity Kent is one of my favorite sleuths/spies because she is clever, brave, and no non-sense. She has also worked to repair her relationship with her husband through the series, and I can see how they have become closer.
The arch nemesis is at it again, but this time, even more people are endangered. But does the British government trust Verity? Of course not! Why would they when she's served them so well? But everything is not black and white, and Verity must figure out how to handle her own convictions in this book.
It twists and turns, and I was thoroughly engaged. This is the perfect series for mystery readers who love that post-WWI era where everything starts to bubble toward the next war. It is intriguing. And the Irish have legitimate reasons to hate the English—the accuracy in Huber's novels is always a plus. If you've never read any of the Verity books, I would recommend that you read at least the first one first so you have a foundation. This is number 9, and I'm already looking forward to number 10. IF there is one! Did this one wrap it up? Not in a neat bow, so I'm hoping for another.
Happy sleuthing!
My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. I'm voluntarily leaving a review, and all opinions are my own.
Genre: Mystery, Historical Mystery, Ireland
Violence Level: It's more off-page than on, but the consequences will be huge if Verity cannot solve the mystery.
Format: #9 in the Verity Kent Mysteries
Verity Kent is one of my favorite sleuths/spies because she is clever, brave, and no non-sense. She has also worked to repair her relationship with her husband through the series, and I can see how they have become closer.
The arch nemesis is at it again, but this time, even more people are endangered. But does the British government trust Verity? Of course not! Why would they when she's served them so well? But everything is not black and white, and Verity must figure out how to handle her own convictions in this book.
It twists and turns, and I was thoroughly engaged. This is the perfect series for mystery readers who love that post-WWI era where everything starts to bubble toward the next war. It is intriguing. And the Irish have legitimate reasons to hate the English—the accuracy in Huber's novels is always a plus. If you've never read any of the Verity books, I would recommend that you read at least the first one first so you have a foundation. This is number 9, and I'm already looking forward to number 10. IF there is one! Did this one wrap it up? Not in a neat bow, so I'm hoping for another.
Happy sleuthing!
My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. I'm voluntarily leaving a review, and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Bravest Hour is a wild ride through the fight for freedom that took place in Ireland so that they could rule themselves. We see it through the eyes of our heroine Verity whose bias we can see and I for one totally share that bias with her.
The author says she made this piece of historical fiction somewhat simplified and I know that even though she may have done it was all I could do to keep abreast of the happenings, and people involved. It was a bitter time for the Irish - so much so that the present generation I know still have their stories to share of how their recent forebears experienced it. And more power to them as the Irish would say
I did enjoy the cloak and dagger approach Verity and Sydney had to take. While many of the characters are fictional we meet up with some historical figures too in a fictional way. The story is filled with tension and as a reader I never knew just what might happen next.
Verity is finished in Ireland, she came to do something and along with Sydney has seen it through at great personal cost. I did like that through it all their relationship continued to develop and strengthen. I would love to know they settle down and have a happy family life.
I think you would have at least needed to read the previous to books in this trilogy and really the whole series to appreciate this book. Although maybe if you already have some knowledge of those troubled times this book by itself could work for you.
The author says she made this piece of historical fiction somewhat simplified and I know that even though she may have done it was all I could do to keep abreast of the happenings, and people involved. It was a bitter time for the Irish - so much so that the present generation I know still have their stories to share of how their recent forebears experienced it. And more power to them as the Irish would say
I did enjoy the cloak and dagger approach Verity and Sydney had to take. While many of the characters are fictional we meet up with some historical figures too in a fictional way. The story is filled with tension and as a reader I never knew just what might happen next.
Verity is finished in Ireland, she came to do something and along with Sydney has seen it through at great personal cost. I did like that through it all their relationship continued to develop and strengthen. I would love to know they settle down and have a happy family life.
I think you would have at least needed to read the previous to books in this trilogy and really the whole series to appreciate this book. Although maybe if you already have some knowledge of those troubled times this book by itself could work for you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advance reader copy of The Bravest Hour. All opinions and comments are my own.
This is the final chapter of Verity Kent's exciting (and dangerous) espionage career. Last time, in A Moment’s Shadow, the authorities arrested her. We can only hope the fight against the traitor wasn’t in vain. It has been a perilous trip, fraught with roadblocks at every turn. So, read on, gentle reader.
Keeping one’s honor has been a theme used throughout the series, and it isn’t forgotten in The Bravest Hour. As is the author’s sympathetic leanings towards the plight of the Irish people during their long and bloody conflict with the British government, well documented in this book, including details recalling the Bloody Sunday of 1920, peace negotiations, and the campaign against Michael Collins. If you are looking for a tight narrative that races from point to point and reaches its conclusion rapidly, this is not it. Alongside the history, Verity's fictional story reveals more of Lord Ardmore's deceit. Then comes the triumph: clear proof of his treachery. The conclusion will please anyone who has followed Verity from beginning to end.
I enjoyed this last novel and all the others in the series for the emotion, information, and passion that author Anna Lee Huber brought to her readers. I will miss Verity and Sidney Kent.
This is the final chapter of Verity Kent's exciting (and dangerous) espionage career. Last time, in A Moment’s Shadow, the authorities arrested her. We can only hope the fight against the traitor wasn’t in vain. It has been a perilous trip, fraught with roadblocks at every turn. So, read on, gentle reader.
Keeping one’s honor has been a theme used throughout the series, and it isn’t forgotten in The Bravest Hour. As is the author’s sympathetic leanings towards the plight of the Irish people during their long and bloody conflict with the British government, well documented in this book, including details recalling the Bloody Sunday of 1920, peace negotiations, and the campaign against Michael Collins. If you are looking for a tight narrative that races from point to point and reaches its conclusion rapidly, this is not it. Alongside the history, Verity's fictional story reveals more of Lord Ardmore's deceit. Then comes the triumph: clear proof of his treachery. The conclusion will please anyone who has followed Verity from beginning to end.
I enjoyed this last novel and all the others in the series for the emotion, information, and passion that author Anna Lee Huber brought to her readers. I will miss Verity and Sidney Kent.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It is November 1920 and society page favorites Verity Kent and her husband Sydney are in Dublin, Ireland, for the ninth book in the Verity Kent series. The Kents both served, in different ways, in Europe during World Wat I. The society pages often their investigative skills and success solving crimes. This book, The Bravest Hour, is the final part of their Dublin adventure trilogy and of the series.
Beginning immediately after the end of A Moment's Shadow, Verity has been arrested and taken to Dublin Castle. Her arrest was apparently ordered by "O" the director of intelligence for Ireland, an associate of her nemesis, Lord Ardmore. Her initial interrogation, including a beating and threats of more torture, is conducted by another Ardmore follower with a reputation for brutality. She is accused of associating with Irish Republican Army leader Michael Collins and of supporting Irish rebels.
This is a dark book set in a time of deep unrest in Ireland, well researched and with fictionalized references to historical personages and events.
It is not a book that can be read as a standalone. Truly understanding the basic plot and key characters, friend and enemy, requires having read at least the two preceding books, The Cold Light of Day and A Moment's Shadow.
I thank Kensington and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review; the opinions are mine alone.
Beginning immediately after the end of A Moment's Shadow, Verity has been arrested and taken to Dublin Castle. Her arrest was apparently ordered by "O" the director of intelligence for Ireland, an associate of her nemesis, Lord Ardmore. Her initial interrogation, including a beating and threats of more torture, is conducted by another Ardmore follower with a reputation for brutality. She is accused of associating with Irish Republican Army leader Michael Collins and of supporting Irish rebels.
This is a dark book set in a time of deep unrest in Ireland, well researched and with fictionalized references to historical personages and events.
It is not a book that can be read as a standalone. Truly understanding the basic plot and key characters, friend and enemy, requires having read at least the two preceding books, The Cold Light of Day and A Moment's Shadow.
I thank Kensington and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review; the opinions are mine alone.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's the end of an era! The last three books in the Verity Kent series were almost a series-within-a-series. The attention to detail was incredible and I appreciated learning even more about The Troubles than I knew before. Anna Lee Huber is incredibly fair, representing the good and bad of both the English and the Irish in these stories.
The last book ended on quite the cliffhanger, with Verity being carted off to jail. We pick up with her interrogation and stay in Dublin Castle, which is tough to read, but we know Verity's training will get her through it. The poison gas Verity's been chasing for so many books is in police custody, but the Moriarty character, Lord Ardmore, is still free to wreck havoc. Verity and Sydney are tracking him to figure out where and how he'll strike next.
No spoilers here, but there's a delightful interlude where two old friends arrive to help. I think this was a way to give the readers a look at the happily ever afters for two beloved characters. There are still loose ends and I think that's to be expected for a book set in this time, but we get a satisfactory conclusion for Verity and Sydney at the very end - the very, very end.
I'm sad to leave some these wonderful characters and know I'll read these books again and again for years to come.
The last book ended on quite the cliffhanger, with Verity being carted off to jail. We pick up with her interrogation and stay in Dublin Castle, which is tough to read, but we know Verity's training will get her through it. The poison gas Verity's been chasing for so many books is in police custody, but the Moriarty character, Lord Ardmore, is still free to wreck havoc. Verity and Sydney are tracking him to figure out where and how he'll strike next.
No spoilers here, but there's a delightful interlude where two old friends arrive to help. I think this was a way to give the readers a look at the happily ever afters for two beloved characters. There are still loose ends and I think that's to be expected for a book set in this time, but we get a satisfactory conclusion for Verity and Sydney at the very end - the very, very end.
I'm sad to leave some these wonderful characters and know I'll read these books again and again for years to come.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book series do not always conclude in a purposeful and satisfying way, but The Bravest Hour accomplishes both in drawing to a close the Verity Kent mysteries.
It’s the ninth, and final, book in the series, but it’s also the third in a trilogy set in Ireland during the turbulence of the 1920s. It picks right up where the previous book ends, with Verity arrested and hauled off to Dublin Castle. The return of old friends, the ongoing battle between the Kents and their adversary Lord Ardmore, the early days of the IRA and how Ireland was torn apart at the seams — all contribute to bring this chapter of Verity’s life to a conclusion. Despite the frenetic pace of the last eight novels, it’s only been 18 months in the life the Kents. And while it’s easy to forget Verity is only 24, she is. Still so young, with an entire life ahead for her and Sidney, far away from the years of working as agents for the British government.
I did feel that despite starting off with a bang, it dragged quite a bit for me in the middle section. It got too bogged down in Irish politics for my own preferences and I did find myself skimming through some chapters.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
It’s the ninth, and final, book in the series, but it’s also the third in a trilogy set in Ireland during the turbulence of the 1920s. It picks right up where the previous book ends, with Verity arrested and hauled off to Dublin Castle. The return of old friends, the ongoing battle between the Kents and their adversary Lord Ardmore, the early days of the IRA and how Ireland was torn apart at the seams — all contribute to bring this chapter of Verity’s life to a conclusion. Despite the frenetic pace of the last eight novels, it’s only been 18 months in the life the Kents. And while it’s easy to forget Verity is only 24, she is. Still so young, with an entire life ahead for her and Sidney, far away from the years of working as agents for the British government.
I did feel that despite starting off with a bang, it dragged quite a bit for me in the middle section. It got too bogged down in Irish politics for my own preferences and I did find myself skimming through some chapters.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In this final book of the Verity Kent series, we see all the developments and plots finally come to a much awaited conclusion amidst the backdrop of the tumultuous fight for independence in Ireland.
Verity Kent, Sidney and their close group of trusted colleagues have been through much and it's nice to see this camaraderie carry through into the final book of the series. The imbalance of power and tension between the various worldviews was a worthy theme that kept recurring throughout the book. In a sense, historical fiction like this book help make the difficulties of such situations take on much more vivid colour.
Overall, while I enjoyed immersing myself into the world of Verity Kent, I found certain parts of the development wanting. The pacing and conclusion felt rushed at certain times while certain descriptions felt too factual and dry. I would have liked more development of Verity and Sidney's life after the events of the book, perhaps in a short epilogue of some sorts, just to get a better sense of the weight and consequences of how the events in the books had affected them.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed being able to spend time with Verity again in her last adventure and I'm sure I'll pick up to re-read the series again in the future.
Verity Kent, Sidney and their close group of trusted colleagues have been through much and it's nice to see this camaraderie carry through into the final book of the series. The imbalance of power and tension between the various worldviews was a worthy theme that kept recurring throughout the book. In a sense, historical fiction like this book help make the difficulties of such situations take on much more vivid colour.
Overall, while I enjoyed immersing myself into the world of Verity Kent, I found certain parts of the development wanting. The pacing and conclusion felt rushed at certain times while certain descriptions felt too factual and dry. I would have liked more development of Verity and Sidney's life after the events of the book, perhaps in a short epilogue of some sorts, just to get a better sense of the weight and consequences of how the events in the books had affected them.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed being able to spend time with Verity again in her last adventure and I'm sure I'll pick up to re-read the series again in the future.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been waiting for this book as the last ended on a cliffhanger. I hope this is not the end of the series!
However, this is the end of a trilogy within the series that takes place in Dublin in 1920.
This is historical fiction in the best sense, you learn about a subject from a different point of view, and I found myself googling history as I read.
Verity and Sydney are in Dublin, following the villain of the trilogy and trying to thwart him at every turn.
One of the most poignant scenes is Armistice day, as Verity, Sydney and 2 other characters are waiting for 11AM on November 11th, as each of them remember their war years.
Verity has become quite disenchanted with the way the British are handling the Irish, and is hiding what she knows about the IRA and where Michael Collins is hiding. We learn about how the British behaved, with ramifications which continue today.
This is quite an exciting thriller, as once again Verity and Sydney must stop Lord Ardmore from wreaking havoc to his own purposes.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. This is my honest review.
However, this is the end of a trilogy within the series that takes place in Dublin in 1920.
This is historical fiction in the best sense, you learn about a subject from a different point of view, and I found myself googling history as I read.
Verity and Sydney are in Dublin, following the villain of the trilogy and trying to thwart him at every turn.
One of the most poignant scenes is Armistice day, as Verity, Sydney and 2 other characters are waiting for 11AM on November 11th, as each of them remember their war years.
Verity has become quite disenchanted with the way the British are handling the Irish, and is hiding what she knows about the IRA and where Michael Collins is hiding. We learn about how the British behaved, with ramifications which continue today.
This is quite an exciting thriller, as once again Verity and Sydney must stop Lord Ardmore from wreaking havoc to his own purposes.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was so excited to spend time with Verity, Sidney, and their friends again in The Bravest Hour, the 9th and final book in the Verity Kent mystery series by Anna Lee Huber. I have loved this series from the beginning, particularly since they found themselves in Ireland during the dark period after WWI. I knew very little about that slice of history before reading the last three books. It was a devastating period for Ireland --- and made for compelling reading.
Verity is imprisoned at the Castle, forced to endure brutal interrogation, along with torture. During the course of the book the reader is reconnected with the supporting characters one last time---in a positive light; of importance to readers like me who need closure. This is a series that will easily slide into the favorite reread category.
Heartfelt thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #AnnaLeeHuber
for an advanced reader e-copy to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#TheBravestHour #NetGalley #AVerityKentMysteryBook
Verity is imprisoned at the Castle, forced to endure brutal interrogation, along with torture. During the course of the book the reader is reconnected with the supporting characters one last time---in a positive light; of importance to readers like me who need closure. This is a series that will easily slide into the favorite reread category.
Heartfelt thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #AnnaLeeHuber
for an advanced reader e-copy to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#TheBravestHour #NetGalley #AVerityKentMysteryBook
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Description
November 1920. Dublin, Ireland. Verity's efforts to foil a contemptible plot by the traitorous Lord Ardmore and save countless lives—as well as the British government's reputation—has exposed her to detrimental scrutiny, bringing her contact with the Irish rebels to light. Crushingly, she finds herself incarcerated in Dublin Castle, the "Dread Bastille," where she must withstand interrogation from her own countrymen.
I really enjoyed The Bravest Hour. It pulled me in pretty quickly, and I loved the mix of mystery, suspense, and historical atmosphere. The characters were easy to get invested in. This is the last book in a series. I read it as a standalone without issues. Overall, this was a fun and absorbing read, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical mysteries.
Heather Wilds provided the audible performance. She was a addition to the story.
Thank you Netgalley and Tantor Media for my ALC in exchange for my honest review. Expected release date August 25th
#TheBravestHour #Netgalley
November 1920. Dublin, Ireland. Verity's efforts to foil a contemptible plot by the traitorous Lord Ardmore and save countless lives—as well as the British government's reputation—has exposed her to detrimental scrutiny, bringing her contact with the Irish rebels to light. Crushingly, she finds herself incarcerated in Dublin Castle, the "Dread Bastille," where she must withstand interrogation from her own countrymen.
I really enjoyed The Bravest Hour. It pulled me in pretty quickly, and I loved the mix of mystery, suspense, and historical atmosphere. The characters were easy to get invested in. This is the last book in a series. I read it as a standalone without issues. Overall, this was a fun and absorbing read, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical mysteries.
Heather Wilds provided the audible performance. She was a addition to the story.
Thank you Netgalley and Tantor Media for my ALC in exchange for my honest review. Expected release date August 25th
#TheBravestHour #Netgalley
August 25, 2026
Rating: 5/5 stars
I am so sad that this series is over, but what a great finale.
As is typical of a Verity Kent book, this one grabbed me from the start. The description of the "interrogation" Verity endures was gut wrenching without feeling like too much detail. I cringed reading it, but the writing and the story are so compelling that I was not about to stop reading.
One of the things I've enjoyed most about the last three books of this series, the books set in Ireland, is how well Anna Lee Huber has managed both the Ardmore and the Collins/IRA plots. Both stories within this story are fast paced, exciting, and well developed. Neither takes away from the other.
I suspect this is a common sentiment among readers who have loved this series as much as I have, but I am truly going miss these characters a lot. I imagine a full series re-read is in my near future.
Highly recommend this book, and the entire series.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for honest review.
I am so sad that this series is over, but what a great finale.
As is typical of a Verity Kent book, this one grabbed me from the start. The description of the "interrogation" Verity endures was gut wrenching without feeling like too much detail. I cringed reading it, but the writing and the story are so compelling that I was not about to stop reading.
One of the things I've enjoyed most about the last three books of this series, the books set in Ireland, is how well Anna Lee Huber has managed both the Ardmore and the Collins/IRA plots. Both stories within this story are fast paced, exciting, and well developed. Neither takes away from the other.
I suspect this is a common sentiment among readers who have loved this series as much as I have, but I am truly going miss these characters a lot. I imagine a full series re-read is in my near future.
Highly recommend this book, and the entire series.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for honest review.
August 29, 2026
I have been a longtime fan of the Verity Kent series and was sad to learn this book would wrap it up. The last book ended with a cliffhanger of Verity being arrested and taken to Dublin Castle by her own countrymen. They should have been thanking her for preventing Ardmore's phosgene gas being deployed by British soldiers thinking that it is tear gas for dispersing the mourning Irish crowd and the IRA meant to take the blame. Vile (and an actual historical figure) Chief of Intelligence Captain "O" Winter has her interrogated with means that have caused Verity, Sidney and their friends to be disillusioned with their government. Sidney is joined in Dublin by Max and George in the scramble to get her released, but when she finally is, it is with strings attached and Sidney and Verity are watched, unable to leave Ireland. Together with Max and George, Verity and Sidney concentrate on exposing Ardmore. I was totally satisfied with how Anna Lee Huber ended this series but I will miss the characters.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A brilliant ending to a great series! While I felt a little buried in history for the past 2 books set in Ireland, the 3rd book was just enough to understand the events of this time period and the conflicting feelings of the characters. These last 3 books follow Verity & Sydney working for the British government to help take down Michael Collins and the IRA but their close friend Alec is involved and wavering between allegiances. Verity is arrested and Ardmore is trying to make things as difficult as possible for her so that she stops pursuing him and his diabolical schemes. Verity is as determined as ever to take him down and starts looking into his past to find out what drives him to murder. We continue to see their marriage being challenged as well as their allegiances. I was holding my breath at several points in the story, waiting to see who survived.
A great finale to the series. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
A great finale to the series. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Bravest Hour is the ninth and final book on the Verity Kent Mysteries series. Verity is a British Intelligence Agent and she is in Dublin where she is trying to stop Lord Ardmore and save countless lives. In order to stop him Verity and her allies will need to team up to bring him down.
I have to start by saying this is the first book in this series I have read. I think it would have been better if I read this series in order, but I was still able to follow along and not be lost in this book without the knowledge of the rest of the series. I really enjoyed Verity as the main character and liked the whole concept of this book and series. This book was well written and I felt like I was taken back in time with this story. I was pulled in and liked the fast paced intriguing journey this book took me on. I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be going back and starting this series from the beginning.
I have to start by saying this is the first book in this series I have read. I think it would have been better if I read this series in order, but I was still able to follow along and not be lost in this book without the knowledge of the rest of the series. I really enjoyed Verity as the main character and liked the whole concept of this book and series. This book was well written and I felt like I was taken back in time with this story. I was pulled in and liked the fast paced intriguing journey this book took me on. I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be going back and starting this series from the beginning.
August 25, 2026
I was both eagerly awaiting and dreading this book. It opens where A Moment's Shadow ended. Verity is in prison, cold, scared, and uncertain if she will ever see her loved ones again. Her "questioning" is horrible: worse. is her meeting with her nemesis, Lord Ardmore. The Irish independence movement is heating up even more and Verity's family and friends are caught in the midst.
I have enjoyed all the books in this series, especially this one. Verity has had more than one person should have to handle with being a spy in WWI, solving murders and being an unofficial spy after, now sent to find her missing friend and agent Alexander Xavier, thus, getting involved with Michael Collins and the IRA. As she and husband, Sidney deal with duplicity everywhere, the final showdown with Ardmore is finally here.
An explosive ending (almost literally!) and justice (of a sort) is finally done.
Highly recommend.
I have enjoyed all the books in this series, especially this one. Verity has had more than one person should have to handle with being a spy in WWI, solving murders and being an unofficial spy after, now sent to find her missing friend and agent Alexander Xavier, thus, getting involved with Michael Collins and the IRA. As she and husband, Sidney deal with duplicity everywhere, the final showdown with Ardmore is finally here.
An explosive ending (almost literally!) and justice (of a sort) is finally done.
Highly recommend.
August 27, 2026
When we last saw Verity, she was being incarcerated by her own countrymen in Dublin Castle! What a slap in the face to a woman who had been putting herself at risk to find and help capture the contemptable Lord Ardmore! A perfect ending to the last book, and a bit of a preface for this one.
I did not know that this would be the last book in this series, but I'm glad to see there was enough 'tying up loose ends' that I can be happy for Verity and Sydney. I've enjoyed the fictional lives of Verity, Stanley, and their friends and how Ms. Huber weaved their story realistically with the true life events happening at the time. I truly felt for Verity and Sydney when they didn't know who to ally themselves with.
Shutting down Lord Ardmore was just a fabulous ending to this book and to this series!
I have loved these books from the beginning.. The amount of historical research Ms. Huber puts into her books is so appreciated. Well done.
I did not know that this would be the last book in this series, but I'm glad to see there was enough 'tying up loose ends' that I can be happy for Verity and Sydney. I've enjoyed the fictional lives of Verity, Stanley, and their friends and how Ms. Huber weaved their story realistically with the true life events happening at the time. I truly felt for Verity and Sydney when they didn't know who to ally themselves with.
Shutting down Lord Ardmore was just a fabulous ending to this book and to this series!
I have loved these books from the beginning.. The amount of historical research Ms. Huber puts into her books is so appreciated. Well done.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Bravest Hour is the 8th and final book in the Verity Kent mystery series. I enjoyed this series so much, so reading the final book was really bittersweet for me. However, it was a wonderful book and I could not put it down. From the very first page, when Verity is arrested by her own government to the wonderful finale, it was just a wonderful book. The amount of research Ms.Huber does is amazing and I loved learning more about Ireland in the 1920’s. What a terrifying place it must have been. I really enjoyed the character development of Verity in this series. She has grown and matured and turned into a wonderful (and more jaded person). I’m looking forward to what Ms. Huber will be writing about next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The final installment in this wonderful series proves that the last book is certainly not the least. As the third novel in the Ireland trilogy, it begins with gripping action and never lets up, keeping the pages turning from start to finish. While I'm sad to say goodbye to these characters, this book left me with a profound appreciation for the hardships the people of Ireland endured during this turbulent period in history.
Verity and her husband have become so richly developed that they feel like real people, and I found myself deeply invested in their lives. Although I would happily read more about their future, the author brought their journey—and the series as a whole—to a deeply satisfying and beautifully crafted conclusion. An action-filled, memorable, emotional, and fitting end to an outstanding series.
Verity and her husband have become so richly developed that they feel like real people, and I found myself deeply invested in their lives. Although I would happily read more about their future, the author brought their journey—and the series as a whole—to a deeply satisfying and beautifully crafted conclusion. An action-filled, memorable, emotional, and fitting end to an outstanding series.
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