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The Oxford Guide #1
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies
Set against the backdrop of post-WWII Oxford University, The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies is the irresistible debut from Kate Westbury that seamlessly layers mystery, romance, and a dash of academia to introduce the Crown’s newest undercover operatives.
Oxford, England, 1951 - The Honorable Ginevra Bishop likes red lipstick, clever retorts, and earning top marks in her tutorials. She’s following her mother’s footsteps by studying at Oxford, eager to prove she’s more than a debutante.
Sidney Braithwaite likes brooding, Latin, and ignoring his nightmares. He’s determined to forge a new life for himself at Oxford, far from his childhood mining village and free from memories of the war.
Though Gin and Sidney have little in common, the British Security Service is keen to unite her charm with his espionage there’s a Soviet spy at the university, and the agent tracking them down was poisoned. MI5 wants Gin and Sidney to pick up the trail and identify the informant before more sensitive information is compromised. As a team, the pair of undergraduates clash in personality, upbringing, and taste––but have a connection neither can deny. Gin and Sidney must unite their respective talents to follow the clues before they’re caught in the traitor’s crosshairs…if the sparks flying between them don’t blow up the operation first.
Oxford, England, 1951 - The Honorable Ginevra Bishop likes red lipstick, clever retorts, and earning top marks in her tutorials. She’s following her mother’s footsteps by studying at Oxford, eager to prove she’s more than a debutante.
Sidney Braithwaite likes brooding, Latin, and ignoring his nightmares. He’s determined to forge a new life for himself at Oxford, far from his childhood mining village and free from memories of the war.
Though Gin and Sidney have little in common, the British Security Service is keen to unite her charm with his espionage there’s a Soviet spy at the university, and the agent tracking them down was poisoned. MI5 wants Gin and Sidney to pick up the trail and identify the informant before more sensitive information is compromised. As a team, the pair of undergraduates clash in personality, upbringing, and taste––but have a connection neither can deny. Gin and Sidney must unite their respective talents to follow the clues before they’re caught in the traitor’s crosshairs…if the sparks flying between them don’t blow up the operation first.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2026
About the author
Kate Westbury
2 books159 followersKate Westbury grew up a voracious reader of detective fiction, and unraveling plot twists became her favorite pastime. She now puts her whodunnit obsession to good use writing historical mysteries. Beyond the page, Kate teaches Latin and dreams of moving to an English village with crimes to solve.
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you tell me a book contains Oxford, spies, murder, and romantic tension, I’m already halfway through it before anyone finishes the sentence. So when I picked up The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies by Kate Westbury, I knew I was walking straight into my favorite kind of chaos.
And chaos it is—the clever, tea-stained, bookish kind.
Welcome to Oxford in 1951, where the war may technically be over but the shadows it left behind are still lurking in lecture halls, libraries, and suspiciously polite conversations over tea. Into this slightly tense, very academic world step our two unlikely detectives: Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite.
Gin is a viscount’s daughter with impeccable lipstick, razor-sharp wit, and absolutely no interest in being the decorative society ornament everyone expects her to become. She wants to prove she belongs at Oxford on her own merits—and preferably while irritating anyone who thinks otherwise.
Sidney, on the other hand, carries the war in his bones. He’s quiet, guarded, and trying very hard to pretend that espionage and trauma are things he left behind. Unfortunately for him, the universe (and British intelligence) has other plans.
When a spy investigation crashes into Oxford after a suspicious poisoning, these two are recruited to quietly poke around campus and figure out who’s leaking dangerous secrets. Because apparently the best way to catch a spy is to send two argumentative students with unresolved emotional baggage to do the job.
Honestly? Iconic strategy.
What follows is a delicious mix of mystery, espionage, and academic shenanigans. There are secret clues, suspicious professors, coded messages, shady conversations in libraries, and the constant feeling that someone is watching from just around the corner.
And then there’s the dynamic between Gin and Sidney—which is half teamwork, half verbal sparring match.
These two clash in all the best ways. She’s impulsive and fearless, diving headfirst into trouble with the confidence of someone who has never met a boundary she didn’t want to cross. Sidney is cautious, observant, and constantly trying to keep the operation from turning into absolute disaster. Watching them slowly learn to trust each other (while still arguing about nearly everything) was ridiculously entertaining.
Also, the banter deserves a standing ovation.
The romance simmers in the background rather than taking over the story, which I actually loved. It grows quietly between moments of danger and investigation—little looks, reluctant concern, the kind of tension that builds when two people realize they might care about each other more than is strategically wise.
The setting itself is practically a character. Oxford feels alive in this book—old libraries, secret corridors, academic societies, and that wonderful sense that history is hiding behind every door.
And the mystery? It kept me guessing. I had theories. I was suspicious of absolutely everyone. I trusted no one except maybe the library.
The story blends classic whodunnit energy with spy-story intrigue, while also touching on deeper themes—class differences, the lingering scars of war, and the pressure of living up to expectations that were never yours to begin with.
By the time I reached the end, I was fully invested in Gin and Sidney—not just in solving mysteries, but in figuring out what kind of future they want to build for themselves.
Also… that ending? It absolutely whispers “this better become a series.” Because I would happily follow these two into several more academic espionage disasters.
Overall, this was a witty, charming, slightly dangerous historical mystery filled with clever characters, sharp dialogue, and just enough romance to make things interesting.
I’m giving this one four delightfully scandalous stars, and I would gladly return to Oxford with these characters again.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this intriguing mystery / historical spy thriller romance with me in exchange for my honest feedback. 📚🕵️♀️
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And chaos it is—the clever, tea-stained, bookish kind.
Welcome to Oxford in 1951, where the war may technically be over but the shadows it left behind are still lurking in lecture halls, libraries, and suspiciously polite conversations over tea. Into this slightly tense, very academic world step our two unlikely detectives: Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite.
Gin is a viscount’s daughter with impeccable lipstick, razor-sharp wit, and absolutely no interest in being the decorative society ornament everyone expects her to become. She wants to prove she belongs at Oxford on her own merits—and preferably while irritating anyone who thinks otherwise.
Sidney, on the other hand, carries the war in his bones. He’s quiet, guarded, and trying very hard to pretend that espionage and trauma are things he left behind. Unfortunately for him, the universe (and British intelligence) has other plans.
When a spy investigation crashes into Oxford after a suspicious poisoning, these two are recruited to quietly poke around campus and figure out who’s leaking dangerous secrets. Because apparently the best way to catch a spy is to send two argumentative students with unresolved emotional baggage to do the job.
Honestly? Iconic strategy.
What follows is a delicious mix of mystery, espionage, and academic shenanigans. There are secret clues, suspicious professors, coded messages, shady conversations in libraries, and the constant feeling that someone is watching from just around the corner.
And then there’s the dynamic between Gin and Sidney—which is half teamwork, half verbal sparring match.
These two clash in all the best ways. She’s impulsive and fearless, diving headfirst into trouble with the confidence of someone who has never met a boundary she didn’t want to cross. Sidney is cautious, observant, and constantly trying to keep the operation from turning into absolute disaster. Watching them slowly learn to trust each other (while still arguing about nearly everything) was ridiculously entertaining.
Also, the banter deserves a standing ovation.
The romance simmers in the background rather than taking over the story, which I actually loved. It grows quietly between moments of danger and investigation—little looks, reluctant concern, the kind of tension that builds when two people realize they might care about each other more than is strategically wise.
The setting itself is practically a character. Oxford feels alive in this book—old libraries, secret corridors, academic societies, and that wonderful sense that history is hiding behind every door.
And the mystery? It kept me guessing. I had theories. I was suspicious of absolutely everyone. I trusted no one except maybe the library.
The story blends classic whodunnit energy with spy-story intrigue, while also touching on deeper themes—class differences, the lingering scars of war, and the pressure of living up to expectations that were never yours to begin with.
By the time I reached the end, I was fully invested in Gin and Sidney—not just in solving mysteries, but in figuring out what kind of future they want to build for themselves.
Also… that ending? It absolutely whispers “this better become a series.” Because I would happily follow these two into several more academic espionage disasters.
Overall, this was a witty, charming, slightly dangerous historical mystery filled with clever characters, sharp dialogue, and just enough romance to make things interesting.
I’m giving this one four delightfully scandalous stars, and I would gladly return to Oxford with these characters again.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this intriguing mystery / historical spy thriller romance with me in exchange for my honest feedback. 📚🕵️♀️
medium blog
September 5, 2026
What do a debutante (Ginevra) and a boy (Sidney) from the mines have in common?
An invitation to spy for the enigmatic Rook in postwar Oxford.
Here's what I liked:
🕵Ginevra Bishop may look polished and pretty, but she also has some unconventional skill sets. And her problem-solving skills will come in handy. Sidney is definitely underestimating her!
🎓Sidney Braithwaite still suffers from his espionage duties during the war. The last thing he wants to do is spy while also attempting to finish his course at Oxford. When will he realize that Ginevra makes a great spying partner?
🗓Setting this story in 1951 allows for both German and Russian sympathizers to be brought to light. Could one of the suspects truly be dipping into both of those poisoned pools?
📚While this one meandered a bit too much for me at times, the ending was down right intriguing! I would be up for reading Book 2 to see what the future has in store for Ginevra and Sidney.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Ell Potter did a find job in reading this story to me as I walked the streets of Talsi, Latvia. A big thank you to Minotaur Books and Edelweiss+ for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. Available as of September 1, 2026.
An invitation to spy for the enigmatic Rook in postwar Oxford.
Here's what I liked:
🕵Ginevra Bishop may look polished and pretty, but she also has some unconventional skill sets. And her problem-solving skills will come in handy. Sidney is definitely underestimating her!
🎓Sidney Braithwaite still suffers from his espionage duties during the war. The last thing he wants to do is spy while also attempting to finish his course at Oxford. When will he realize that Ginevra makes a great spying partner?
🗓Setting this story in 1951 allows for both German and Russian sympathizers to be brought to light. Could one of the suspects truly be dipping into both of those poisoned pools?
📚While this one meandered a bit too much for me at times, the ending was down right intriguing! I would be up for reading Book 2 to see what the future has in store for Ginevra and Sidney.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Ell Potter did a find job in reading this story to me as I walked the streets of Talsi, Latvia. A big thank you to Minotaur Books and Edelweiss+ for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. Available as of September 1, 2026.
Want to Read
March 17, 2026Thank you, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, for sending me this ARC. Mystery, romance, and a dash of academia? Yes, please.
Pub Date Sep 01 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
Pub Date Sep 01 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
July 17, 2026
The Oxford Guide to Scandal was an entertaining blend of mystery, espionage, and engaging character dynamics. Outstanding narration.
Gin and Sidney are unexpectedly thrown together in the world of espionage. Gin is eager to jump into the adventure, while Sidney is much more reluctant, having left that life behind. Their contrasting personalities complement each other perfectly, and watching them learn to work together was one of my favorite parts of the story.
I especially enjoyed the intrigue, the mystery, and the banter between the two main characters. Their interactions kept the story moving and made me eager to see what would happen next.
I’m hoping this is the beginning of a series because I would happily pick up another adventure featuring Gin and Sidney. I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
Gin and Sidney are unexpectedly thrown together in the world of espionage. Gin is eager to jump into the adventure, while Sidney is much more reluctant, having left that life behind. Their contrasting personalities complement each other perfectly, and watching them learn to work together was one of my favorite parts of the story.
I especially enjoyed the intrigue, the mystery, and the banter between the two main characters. Their interactions kept the story moving and made me eager to see what would happen next.
I’m hoping this is the beginning of a series because I would happily pick up another adventure featuring Gin and Sidney. I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
September 1, 2026
Who do you trust?
Post WWII, 1950’s Oxford. Sidney Braithwaite, a former intelligence officer has decided to take up an ex Serviceman’s Grant to study at Oxford
Stationed in France, he’s recovering from bad memories and the death of a French compatriot he worked with, Amélie. Sidney was more than fond of her. Then there was the matter of his wound.
Sidney seems to have landed in a nest of appalling entitled behavior and Kremlin links. A member of the infamous Damolaces Club was accused of treason whilst in a German prison. Many believe he’s wrongly accused.
The plot becomes murkier as things pan out and his old handler from Security Services, the Rook, makes contact.
Then there’s the very upper class, the Honorable Ginerva Bishop who disturbed his studying in the Bodlean, and his life in other ways.
Great start to a new series.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Post WWII, 1950’s Oxford. Sidney Braithwaite, a former intelligence officer has decided to take up an ex Serviceman’s Grant to study at Oxford
Stationed in France, he’s recovering from bad memories and the death of a French compatriot he worked with, Amélie. Sidney was more than fond of her. Then there was the matter of his wound.
Sidney seems to have landed in a nest of appalling entitled behavior and Kremlin links. A member of the infamous Damolaces Club was accused of treason whilst in a German prison. Many believe he’s wrongly accused.
The plot becomes murkier as things pan out and his old handler from Security Services, the Rook, makes contact.
Then there’s the very upper class, the Honorable Ginerva Bishop who disturbed his studying in the Bodlean, and his life in other ways.
Great start to a new series.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Did Not Finish
March 24, 2026DNF at 55%
Two Oxford students tasked with spying to root out a member of their Uni that's committing treason and leaking intel to Russia. AND has even gone as far as killing the previous agent that had gotten too close.
All that said, this book SHOULD'VE made for a compelling read as murder-mysteries are my jam! Unfortunately, I have to agree with Gin here (the FL) when it came to expecting more subterfuge and excitement with her spying. Whereas, the story was mainly a watch and investigate from the shadows kind of tale. For a book centered around treason and a murder, there was very little action or actual intensity to keep the readers interested. I kept reading on and giving the book more time, but I genuinely don't care to read about sneaking into empty houses in the middle of the night and looking for clues. OR at least have that and then have someone shoot at them or capture one of them or SOMETHING to actually reveal those treacherous stakes that are supposedly at place!
No star rating as I dropped. But! Had I finished this would've gotten a 2 star rating as the characters were well-written and felt realistic but the story itself was slow and boring.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc. All opinions are my own.
Two Oxford students tasked with spying to root out a member of their Uni that's committing treason and leaking intel to Russia. AND has even gone as far as killing the previous agent that had gotten too close.
All that said, this book SHOULD'VE made for a compelling read as murder-mysteries are my jam! Unfortunately, I have to agree with Gin here (the FL) when it came to expecting more subterfuge and excitement with her spying. Whereas, the story was mainly a watch and investigate from the shadows kind of tale. For a book centered around treason and a murder, there was very little action or actual intensity to keep the readers interested. I kept reading on and giving the book more time, but I genuinely don't care to read about sneaking into empty houses in the middle of the night and looking for clues. OR at least have that and then have someone shoot at them or capture one of them or SOMETHING to actually reveal those treacherous stakes that are supposedly at place!
No star rating as I dropped. But! Had I finished this would've gotten a 2 star rating as the characters were well-written and felt realistic but the story itself was slow and boring.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc. All opinions are my own.
Want to Read
June 7, 2026My god, the way I need a new cozy mystery series to wrap myself up in like a snuggie. I have been BEREFT since Ashley Weaver finished up her Electra McDonnell series and seems to have long ago bid Amory Ames adieu. If this one can be even three quarters as satisfying, this year might not be so bad after all.
Click here to hear more about this book and my other anticipated releases of the upcoming quarter over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
Click here to hear more about this book and my other anticipated releases of the upcoming quarter over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really don't know how to put into words just how much I loved this book, these characters, the setting, the mystery, the almost romance, I just did. Everything about it was appealing and captured my attention, held it, and refused to let go, long after I put it down.
And best of all, with the ending, I am keeping my fingers crossed (all of them!) that this will become a series because, quite frankly, I can see it becoming a fan favorite. I am rooting for Gin and Sidney all the way and I can't wait to (hopefully!) get more. There is still so much I just need to know!
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
And best of all, with the ending, I am keeping my fingers crossed (all of them!) that this will become a series because, quite frankly, I can see it becoming a fan favorite. I am rooting for Gin and Sidney all the way and I can't wait to (hopefully!) get more. There is still so much I just need to know!
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Review of advance copy received from Author
thanks to the author and publisher for inviting me to read this book in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts are my own
4⭐
happy release day
a super fun historical novel with a strong fmc, supportive mmc, a little rivalry and academic vibe. at times it was a little slow but i can also blame that on my switching between genres and not reading a historical novel in a while. i recommend for a fun 1920's novel with a fun mystery! < 3
4⭐
happy release day
a super fun historical novel with a strong fmc, supportive mmc, a little rivalry and academic vibe. at times it was a little slow but i can also blame that on my switching between genres and not reading a historical novel in a while. i recommend for a fun 1920's novel with a fun mystery! < 3
September 15, 2026
This was really fun! I’ll write more soon but I ended up enjoying it a lot. The mystery has lots of twists and turns, as do our two sleuths’ personal lives. The short final chapter has a seriously intriguing cliffhanger.
September 2, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me an ARC of this book!
Very fun! I love a well done amateur detective novel and I really enjoyed the historical setting and the light romance as well.
I thought this book started off very strong (Even though I super wrongly assumed from the blurb that out WWII veteran would be much older and this would be more a father-daughter-like pair solve a mystery, NOT that at all!). The setting drew me in quickly. I couldn't care less about Oxford but I just love a 20th century university setting for a mystery. Ginevra, or Gin, in particular grabbed me right away. I really liked her voice. Sidney is more of your typical brooding hero. There's good reason for it but I do think a bit more could have been done to set him apart. As a duo they're good. They spend the first half of the book not really liking each other, which dragged a bit, but once they got on the same page I enjoyed the dynamic.
The mystery was pretty fun to read but not very difficult to figure out. The main cast is relatively small and the cast of suspects even smaller so it did not take me very long at all to narrow it down to who I thought did it. I did want more of the actual intelligence work we saw in the first half to appear in the second half. At first, they are staking out buildings, leaving notes for each other, doing decoding, etc., and I feel like that faded in the second half and I wish it hadn't. The climax of the mystery is fine, but it's clearly mostly there to set up the bigger mystery that I image will carry through the rest of this series. We've been set up with a mystery mostly about Gin's history, so I hope we get more about Sidney in later books too and that he isn't just a side player. Also, this is very post-war UK vs Soviet Union. If you want a nuanced look at that dynamic, it at least doesn't appear in this first book.
One small note is that there is definitely some sort of chess motif happening - the intelligence contact is codenamed Rook, Gin's last name is Bishop, Gin's mother loves chess and taught her to play - but it's fairly surface level. If this continues in later books, I hope it's used with more purpose.
I'm definitely looking forward to the sequels! This was good but I think really laid the groundwork for later books so I'm very intrigued to see where this author takes this story!
Very fun! I love a well done amateur detective novel and I really enjoyed the historical setting and the light romance as well.
I thought this book started off very strong (Even though I super wrongly assumed from the blurb that out WWII veteran would be much older and this would be more a father-daughter-like pair solve a mystery, NOT that at all!). The setting drew me in quickly. I couldn't care less about Oxford but I just love a 20th century university setting for a mystery. Ginevra, or Gin, in particular grabbed me right away. I really liked her voice. Sidney is more of your typical brooding hero. There's good reason for it but I do think a bit more could have been done to set him apart. As a duo they're good. They spend the first half of the book not really liking each other, which dragged a bit, but once they got on the same page I enjoyed the dynamic.
The mystery was pretty fun to read but not very difficult to figure out. The main cast is relatively small and the cast of suspects even smaller so it did not take me very long at all to narrow it down to who I thought did it. I did want more of the actual intelligence work we saw in the first half to appear in the second half. At first, they are staking out buildings, leaving notes for each other, doing decoding, etc., and I feel like that faded in the second half and I wish it hadn't. The climax of the mystery is fine, but it's clearly mostly there to set up the bigger mystery that I image will carry through the rest of this series. We've been set up with a mystery mostly about Gin's history, so I hope we get more about Sidney in later books too and that he isn't just a side player. Also, this is very post-war UK vs Soviet Union. If you want a nuanced look at that dynamic, it at least doesn't appear in this first book.
One small note is that there is definitely some sort of chess motif happening - the intelligence contact is codenamed Rook, Gin's last name is Bishop, Gin's mother loves chess and taught her to play - but it's fairly surface level. If this continues in later books, I hope it's used with more purpose.
I'm definitely looking forward to the sequels! This was good but I think really laid the groundwork for later books so I'm very intrigued to see where this author takes this story!
September 2, 2026
"The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies" is a pleasant read with a solid set of characters and a strong blend of academia, romance, espionage, and murder. I listened to this on audiobook, and I will admit that things got a bit messy for me in the middle. I found myself feeling a little lost once or twice, though that may say as much about my concentration as the book itself. I appreciated the characters more than the mystery, but I was happy to keep going for the vibes, which were deliciously cozy and witty. It's hard to tell, but it looks like maybe this is going to be the first in a series (?), and if more books come along, I would definitely be up for revisiting this world. The audiobook production was so engaging and entertaining!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing an advance copy for honest review.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing an advance copy for honest review.
September 9, 2026
If you love historical mysteries, you simply must read The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies. This has everything I love in historical fiction: spy intrigue, academia, and delightful chemistry.
Ginevra Bishop is a debutante attending Oxford in hopes of escaping her father’s control. Sidney Braithwaite is a war veteran with emotional scars trying to rebuild his life. When the pair is recruited by MI5 to investigate the death of a beloved librarian, they must work together to uncover the truth about Oxford (and themselves).
I adored this book. The characters compelled me from the start. The dual point of view worked so well! I love how artfully the author revealed details about their pasts. This was well-written! I learned so much about Ginevra and Sidney through their actions and their reactions to the chaos surrounding them. They have a dynamic chemistry; I could read books and books about them (thankfully a sequel is in the works!) I am emotionally attached!
There’s just something about a Cold War thriller that’ll always interest me. I love the mounting tensions with the Soviets while characters still wrestle with the aftermath of World War II. I truly did not guess any of the twists! This story kept me on my toes.
The Oxford setting felt real and lived in. I could picture the library, Ginevra’s room, and the sprawling country estates with perfect clarity. I wanted to dive into the world! The secondary characters were well-written and made the story feel fuller.
I cannot recommend this book enough! I’m so happy I bought my own copy because a reread will certainly be in order.
Ginevra Bishop is a debutante attending Oxford in hopes of escaping her father’s control. Sidney Braithwaite is a war veteran with emotional scars trying to rebuild his life. When the pair is recruited by MI5 to investigate the death of a beloved librarian, they must work together to uncover the truth about Oxford (and themselves).
I adored this book. The characters compelled me from the start. The dual point of view worked so well! I love how artfully the author revealed details about their pasts. This was well-written! I learned so much about Ginevra and Sidney through their actions and their reactions to the chaos surrounding them. They have a dynamic chemistry; I could read books and books about them (thankfully a sequel is in the works!) I am emotionally attached!
There’s just something about a Cold War thriller that’ll always interest me. I love the mounting tensions with the Soviets while characters still wrestle with the aftermath of World War II. I truly did not guess any of the twists! This story kept me on my toes.
The Oxford setting felt real and lived in. I could picture the library, Ginevra’s room, and the sprawling country estates with perfect clarity. I wanted to dive into the world! The secondary characters were well-written and made the story feel fuller.
I cannot recommend this book enough! I’m so happy I bought my own copy because a reread will certainly be in order.
July 19, 2026
If you love academia and spy stories, this books blends both in a fun romp of a historical mystery. I had a great time reading this and the series is on my "must read" list for now on.
I have to admit that I went into this without reading the summary, which made for a surprise when the main characters weren't just investigating a crime, but were recruited as government operatives to thwart spies! I love historical mysteries with sleuthing partners, but throwing in counter-intelligence work? What a great surprise.
Our main characters have some obstacles in the form of class difference and very different experiences during WW2. The tension between them starts as dislike, but softens over the course of the book. They are clearly compatible, but are letting heads rule at the end of this one, so the "will they or won't they" aspect is left to be resolved in a future book.
I found that the story became more complex as things progressed and I wish I had taken some character notes while reading the first third of the book. There are a lot of people to keep track of!
You can see here that I've tried my best to avoid spoilers of any kind. That was hard!
I have to admit that I went into this without reading the summary, which made for a surprise when the main characters weren't just investigating a crime, but were recruited as government operatives to thwart spies! I love historical mysteries with sleuthing partners, but throwing in counter-intelligence work? What a great surprise.
Our main characters have some obstacles in the form of class difference and very different experiences during WW2. The tension between them starts as dislike, but softens over the course of the book. They are clearly compatible, but are letting heads rule at the end of this one, so the "will they or won't they" aspect is left to be resolved in a future book.
I found that the story became more complex as things progressed and I wish I had taken some character notes while reading the first third of the book. There are a lot of people to keep track of!
You can see here that I've tried my best to avoid spoilers of any kind. That was hard!
September 12, 2026
A delightful espionage mystery! The 1950s Oxford setting was well-crafted and immersive and the leads (Gin and Sid) complement each other well. Particular sensitivity in regards to grief and PTSD added depth alongside light and banter-filled spy activities.
The audiobook is so well-narrated it’s crazy. I can’t believe one woman can do so many voices.
The audiobook is so well-narrated it’s crazy. I can’t believe one woman can do so many voices.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a delightful mix of Agatha Christie and Nancy Drew! The story starts out with two students at Oxford in a conflict over a study spot in the library and leads in to a delightful mystery involving murder and espionage. The story takes place at the end of the war which is a perfect setting for hunting down spies. The main characters were engaging and the plot had me hooked until the end. Personally I am not a fan of graphic violence and I appreciated that this wasn’t that sort of book. I can only assume, based on the ending, that this is the first in a series. I look forward to reading the next book! Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
March 7, 2026
This little ARC landed in my inbox and has surprised and completely charmed me. If you like Masterpiece Mystery shows, particularly Endeavor or Granchester, you are going to love this. My only issue is with an ending like that I’ll need more Gin and Sidney immediately!
September 11, 2026
The Honorable Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite are both students at Oxford, but they come from very different worlds. Their thrown together when the British Security Service recruits them to uncover a Soviet spy operating on campus after their undercover agent is assassinated.
Ginevra is new to the spy game, but her upper-class connections allow her to move easily through those social circles. When she discovers the difficult situation her father has placed her in, the opportunity to earn money while serving her country becomes even more appealing. I enjoyed her determined, plucky personality.
Sidney, meanwhile, served in intelligence during the war and carries scars from those experiences, both physical and emotional. Now at Oxford, he’s eager to move on. However, he can't bring himself to leave Ginevra, an inexperienced newcomer, to face such a dangerous assignment alone.
Both Ginevra and Sidney were likable, relatable characters with distinct strengths that contributed to the investigation. They clashed at first, but there was spark of chemistry between them from the start. A romance is brewing, and I'm eager to see how it develops in future installments.
The Oxford Guide to Secrets and Lies was an exciting mystery filled with danger, intrigue, and suspense! While this mission is completed, the ending hints that there is more to come. I can't wait to see what happens next!
I listened to the audiobook edition, and Ell Potter delivered an outstanding performance. She skillfully handled a wide range of English accents across different ages, genders, and social classes, bringing the characters vividly to life. Her narration definitely enhanced enjoyment!
I voluntarily listened to a copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Ginevra is new to the spy game, but her upper-class connections allow her to move easily through those social circles. When she discovers the difficult situation her father has placed her in, the opportunity to earn money while serving her country becomes even more appealing. I enjoyed her determined, plucky personality.
Sidney, meanwhile, served in intelligence during the war and carries scars from those experiences, both physical and emotional. Now at Oxford, he’s eager to move on. However, he can't bring himself to leave Ginevra, an inexperienced newcomer, to face such a dangerous assignment alone.
Both Ginevra and Sidney were likable, relatable characters with distinct strengths that contributed to the investigation. They clashed at first, but there was spark of chemistry between them from the start. A romance is brewing, and I'm eager to see how it develops in future installments.
The Oxford Guide to Secrets and Lies was an exciting mystery filled with danger, intrigue, and suspense! While this mission is completed, the ending hints that there is more to come. I can't wait to see what happens next!
I listened to the audiobook edition, and Ell Potter delivered an outstanding performance. She skillfully handled a wide range of English accents across different ages, genders, and social classes, bringing the characters vividly to life. Her narration definitely enhanced enjoyment!
I voluntarily listened to a copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
September 2, 2026
Set at Oxford University, this story follows students Ginerva ,high society girl and Sidney, a different kind of student and a former spy! I always enjoy a historical fiction and this just captured me.
A mystery story with lots of twists and turns, its a fun time and the world building is terrific. The author gives us plenty to think about and work out with our characters. It's a spy story and a slow burn romance with lots of yearing and you can't get better than that.
I loved the banter between our main characters, so much so that I did an immersive read with the audiobook and epub. ELL Potter was perfection as the narrator. She's so upper crust and brought the sharp witted Gin to life in the best way. All her characters had warmth and emotion throughout the performance.
I would LOVE to see this as a series rather than a standalone. These characters have more to say and I'm 'hear' for it!
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to listen and review this title. My thoughts are my own.
A mystery story with lots of twists and turns, its a fun time and the world building is terrific. The author gives us plenty to think about and work out with our characters. It's a spy story and a slow burn romance with lots of yearing and you can't get better than that.
I loved the banter between our main characters, so much so that I did an immersive read with the audiobook and epub. ELL Potter was perfection as the narrator. She's so upper crust and brought the sharp witted Gin to life in the best way. All her characters had warmth and emotion throughout the performance.
I would LOVE to see this as a series rather than a standalone. These characters have more to say and I'm 'hear' for it!
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to listen and review this title. My thoughts are my own.
September 5, 2026
3.5 stars rounded down
I was expecting the romance to be more front and center, so my “meh” feelings on this book are probably on me. I liked the mystery and the spies vibe. I enjoyed the historical fiction setting. But the romance was really really low on the focus of this book, and I wanted it to be in the story more. And it felt like it was going to be, until the end just... dropped off?? There was an opportunity for the end to wrap up more satisfactorily while still keeping the reader interested in future books. Instead, the ending and lack of resolution with the romance made me question whether I’ll read book 2. We’ll see!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc for review.
I was expecting the romance to be more front and center, so my “meh” feelings on this book are probably on me. I liked the mystery and the spies vibe. I enjoyed the historical fiction setting. But the romance was really really low on the focus of this book, and I wanted it to be in the story more. And it felt like it was going to be, until the end just... dropped off?? There was an opportunity for the end to wrap up more satisfactorily while still keeping the reader interested in future books. Instead, the ending and lack of resolution with the romance made me question whether I’ll read book 2. We’ll see!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc for review.
September 7, 2026
I LOVED this story. Cozy British murder mystery, Oxford, clever female main character/heroine, broody yearning male lead? Sign me up!
The plot moved along nicely and the mystery intricate and intriguing.
Five stars! Hopeful for a second installment someday.
Other details: set post WW2 timeframe, clean.
The plot moved along nicely and the mystery intricate and intriguing.
Five stars! Hopeful for a second installment someday.
Other details: set post WW2 timeframe, clean.
Read
June 21, 2026DNF @ 30%.
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies initially attracted me for several elements: the setting (Oxford University), the time period (historical fiction, 1950s) and the plot overview (a spy murder mystery.) I understood reading this book by a debut author meant I wasn’t familiar with her writing style, and I ultimately didn’t connect with this book.
The primary reasons I decided to stop reading this book were:
- The 3rd person POV was written in a telling versus showing format, and it wasn’t engaging.
- There were a host of characters and it was hard to keep track of them and their role in the story.
- The writing style and dialogue felt very fake, like someone pretending to be British. I read many authentically British authors’ books and the dialogue sounds very different than this.
- The mystery felt contrived. I wasn’t invested in the story.
I will say I enjoyed the setting (Oxford) and I could tell there would be a nice romance between the main characters.
I won’t be giving this a book rating on Goodreads since I didn’t finish it, but if I did I anticipate it would be 2 stars.
In the 30% of the book I did read, there was no profanity or spice or any other content warnings. I think this book would be best for readers of cozy mystery that don’t mind 3rd person POV or having to really pay attention to lots of characters within a plot.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinion is my own and not influenced by the author or publisher.
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies initially attracted me for several elements: the setting (Oxford University), the time period (historical fiction, 1950s) and the plot overview (a spy murder mystery.) I understood reading this book by a debut author meant I wasn’t familiar with her writing style, and I ultimately didn’t connect with this book.
The primary reasons I decided to stop reading this book were:
- The 3rd person POV was written in a telling versus showing format, and it wasn’t engaging.
- There were a host of characters and it was hard to keep track of them and their role in the story.
- The writing style and dialogue felt very fake, like someone pretending to be British. I read many authentically British authors’ books and the dialogue sounds very different than this.
- The mystery felt contrived. I wasn’t invested in the story.
I will say I enjoyed the setting (Oxford) and I could tell there would be a nice romance between the main characters.
I won’t be giving this a book rating on Goodreads since I didn’t finish it, but if I did I anticipate it would be 2 stars.
In the 30% of the book I did read, there was no profanity or spice or any other content warnings. I think this book would be best for readers of cozy mystery that don’t mind 3rd person POV or having to really pay attention to lots of characters within a plot.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinion is my own and not influenced by the author or publisher.
April 6, 2026
Oxford? I'm in!
I love books set in Oxford. Fortunately, this one was a ton of fun to read and I am excited for the next installment!
Set in post-WWII Oxford, Ginevra Bishop is smart, beautiful, and nobody's fool. She's been identified by the Brits as a perfect foil for brooding Sidney Braithwaite as they team up as pair of clandestine operatives. Of course, they don't get along. Of course, there is chemistry. Of course, action unfolds.
This was a really fun book. It lagged a bit in parts, but the last section was nonstop and left me so excited for the next book. I think this series will get better and better! Check it out!
I love books set in Oxford. Fortunately, this one was a ton of fun to read and I am excited for the next installment!
Set in post-WWII Oxford, Ginevra Bishop is smart, beautiful, and nobody's fool. She's been identified by the Brits as a perfect foil for brooding Sidney Braithwaite as they team up as pair of clandestine operatives. Of course, they don't get along. Of course, there is chemistry. Of course, action unfolds.
This was a really fun book. It lagged a bit in parts, but the last section was nonstop and left me so excited for the next book. I think this series will get better and better! Check it out!
August 27, 2026
🎧📖 Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur Books for a #gifted advanced reader copy and Macmillan Audio for an advanced listener copy of The Oxford Guide to Scandals and Lies by Kate Westbury in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Oxford Guide to Scandals and Lies is a cozy mystery set against the backdrop of Oxford University after the end of World War Two. The story is a delightful blend of all of my favorite genres: historical fiction, mystery, romance, and a touch of academia. I was quickly hooked by the espionage, spies, lies, and enemies to lovers slow burn romance. I enjoyed the two main characters: Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite, especially Gin’s bravery and spunk. The plot became somewhat convoluted in the middle, and I needed to suspend my disbelief at times, but I was invested enough in the characters to root for a successful conclusion. And I plan to continue the series to find out more about the mystery within the mystery teased in the cliffhanger ending.
I listened primarily to the audiobook narrated by Ell Potter. Ms Potter has a soothing, posh voice that enhanced my listening experience. There were a few scenes when I lost track of some of the minor characters and was happy to have my physical copy for backup. Ultimately this cozy mystery series debut pairs a complicated plot with charming characters that I’m looking forward to revisiting 3.5/5⭐️
The Oxford Guide to Scandals and Lies is a cozy mystery set against the backdrop of Oxford University after the end of World War Two. The story is a delightful blend of all of my favorite genres: historical fiction, mystery, romance, and a touch of academia. I was quickly hooked by the espionage, spies, lies, and enemies to lovers slow burn romance. I enjoyed the two main characters: Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite, especially Gin’s bravery and spunk. The plot became somewhat convoluted in the middle, and I needed to suspend my disbelief at times, but I was invested enough in the characters to root for a successful conclusion. And I plan to continue the series to find out more about the mystery within the mystery teased in the cliffhanger ending.
I listened primarily to the audiobook narrated by Ell Potter. Ms Potter has a soothing, posh voice that enhanced my listening experience. There were a few scenes when I lost track of some of the minor characters and was happy to have my physical copy for backup. Ultimately this cozy mystery series debut pairs a complicated plot with charming characters that I’m looking forward to revisiting 3.5/5⭐️
September 7, 2026
Kate Westbury's The Oxford Guide To Scandal And Lies is a fitting September read, perfectly matching the academic vibes this month brings with it.
Although this book is set in 1951 Oxford, England, female protagonist Ginevra Bishop is well ahead of her time with the distinct feminist air Westbury created (which I adored); Sidney, the male protagonist, is perfectly supportive in his role, which also aids Westbury's feminist approach to this historical fiction.
However, I feel like all historical mysteries generally fit the same mold rather than trying to break out to achieve something different, which is where this book's downfall lies. Combining the standard mix of mystery, romance, and historical fiction, the book remains within the confines of these overlapping genres without achieving anything revolutionary or groundbreaking to set it apart from its predecessors; and as such, I was constantly comparing it to similar books I have read.
Ell Potter did a decent enough job narrating this dual-perspective book, though this audiobook could have benefited from dual narrators.
Though at times I felt like the plot got lost supporting the perspective changes and the multiple characters, this is a solid start to new book series, The Oxford Guide from Westbury!
Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for the complimentary copies to read and review.
Although this book is set in 1951 Oxford, England, female protagonist Ginevra Bishop is well ahead of her time with the distinct feminist air Westbury created (which I adored); Sidney, the male protagonist, is perfectly supportive in his role, which also aids Westbury's feminist approach to this historical fiction.
However, I feel like all historical mysteries generally fit the same mold rather than trying to break out to achieve something different, which is where this book's downfall lies. Combining the standard mix of mystery, romance, and historical fiction, the book remains within the confines of these overlapping genres without achieving anything revolutionary or groundbreaking to set it apart from its predecessors; and as such, I was constantly comparing it to similar books I have read.
Ell Potter did a decent enough job narrating this dual-perspective book, though this audiobook could have benefited from dual narrators.
Though at times I felt like the plot got lost supporting the perspective changes and the multiple characters, this is a solid start to new book series, The Oxford Guide from Westbury!
Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for the complimentary copies to read and review.
September 10, 2026
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies is a historical mystery about two Oxford University students that stumble across the murder of their librarian.
It’s 1951, and Gin Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite aren’t really fond of each other when they find their school librarian dying from poison. With Gin’s cover as a rich society lady and Sidney’s experience in WW2, MI5 decides they are the ideal duo to track down a spy working for the Soviets. They follow a trail that leads them back to former students and current professors, all while they fall for each other. It’s got lots of twists and turns inside a mystery that’s both academic and a little cozy. It looks like this is the start of a series, so I’m looking forward to more Gin and Sidney.
Rating: 3.75
Narration Notes: The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies was read by Ell Potter who does an excellent job with the characters young and old, British and not.
Disclosure: An ALC (advanced listening copy) of The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies was provided by Macmillan Audio for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It’s 1951, and Gin Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite aren’t really fond of each other when they find their school librarian dying from poison. With Gin’s cover as a rich society lady and Sidney’s experience in WW2, MI5 decides they are the ideal duo to track down a spy working for the Soviets. They follow a trail that leads them back to former students and current professors, all while they fall for each other. It’s got lots of twists and turns inside a mystery that’s both academic and a little cozy. It looks like this is the start of a series, so I’m looking forward to more Gin and Sidney.
Rating: 3.75
Narration Notes: The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies was read by Ell Potter who does an excellent job with the characters young and old, British and not.
Disclosure: An ALC (advanced listening copy) of The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies was provided by Macmillan Audio for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 29, 2026
Thank you Minotaur Books for the ARC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC!
This one was so much fun and exactly what I needed to change things up! The chemistry and banter between Gin and Sidney really stole the show for me. I loved watching their very different personalities get thrown together and forced to work as a team while trying to track down a spy and murderer.
The mix of romance, mystery, espionage, historical fiction, and academia made for such an entertaining read. I also listened to quite a bit on audio, and Ell Potter did an excellent job with the narration. She really brought the story and historical setting to life, and I’ll definitely be looking for more audiobooks narrated by her.
And the best part? Book two is already in the works! I’m definitely looking forward to more Gin and Sidney.
This one was so much fun and exactly what I needed to change things up! The chemistry and banter between Gin and Sidney really stole the show for me. I loved watching their very different personalities get thrown together and forced to work as a team while trying to track down a spy and murderer.
The mix of romance, mystery, espionage, historical fiction, and academia made for such an entertaining read. I also listened to quite a bit on audio, and Ell Potter did an excellent job with the narration. She really brought the story and historical setting to life, and I’ll definitely be looking for more audiobooks narrated by her.
And the best part? Book two is already in the works! I’m definitely looking forward to more Gin and Sidney.
March 27, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Publishing Group for the ARC.
Oxford’s Guide to Scandal and Lies is a historical mystery set in 1951 after World War II has ended. Ginevra and Sidney are academics at Oxford who are tasked with investigating the death of a faculty member.
I really enjoyed this book. I found Ginevra and Sidney to be likeable characters and loved the chemistry between them. I look forward to seeing their relationship develop more in future books. While the plot was slow at times, I enjoyed the classic whodunnit vibes. I was glued to the last third of the book and could not put it down. The story was well written and I was able to use the clues they found to solve the case along with the characters. The only thing I did not like (and this is probably more a me thing) was characters sometimes being referred to by first name and sometimes last name or a nickname. It made it difficult for me to keep characters straight until I was 2/3 into the book. Overall, this was a fun read and I look forward to more books in what I believe (based on the ending) is the start of a new series.
Oxford’s Guide to Scandal and Lies is a historical mystery set in 1951 after World War II has ended. Ginevra and Sidney are academics at Oxford who are tasked with investigating the death of a faculty member.
I really enjoyed this book. I found Ginevra and Sidney to be likeable characters and loved the chemistry between them. I look forward to seeing their relationship develop more in future books. While the plot was slow at times, I enjoyed the classic whodunnit vibes. I was glued to the last third of the book and could not put it down. The story was well written and I was able to use the clues they found to solve the case along with the characters. The only thing I did not like (and this is probably more a me thing) was characters sometimes being referred to by first name and sometimes last name or a nickname. It made it difficult for me to keep characters straight until I was 2/3 into the book. Overall, this was a fun read and I look forward to more books in what I believe (based on the ending) is the start of a new series.
September 3, 2026
i lost interest in the mystery because there were a lot of side characters or names and their surnames to keep track of which is definitely a skill issue on my part but i just want to put it out there that i did not care about the mystery; since it wasn’t predictable tho i’ll give it to the author; the romance part tho although minimal is scrumptious and for some reason i could hear stop the wedding! by ashe playing in my head as i read along
September 5, 2026
When Ginevra stumbles upon her favourite librarian dying, she is pulled into spy work to figure out who did it. Along with her enemy (he took her table at the library!), Sidney, they discover secrets among staff and students at Oxford, relating to the war. This book had a lot of twists that I did not anticipate, and many characters who could have been the suspect. While it was a mystery book, it was fun at times, and Gin and Sidney were great characters to get to know. I really enjoyed this book, and am hoping we will meet them again!
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