Merlin at War

DCI Frank Merlin #3

by Mark Ellis

Summer 1941. Four violent deaths, French double agents, an escalating fraud case - DCI Frank Merlin sets out on his most complex case yet.

War rages across Europe. France is under the Nazi thumb. Britain has its back to the wall. In London, Scotland Yard detective Merlin investigates a series of disturbing events - a young girl killed in a botched abortion, a French emigre shot in a seedy Notting Hill flat, a mysterious letter written by a British officer, gunned down in Crete.

Chasing evidence spanning Buenos Aires, New York, Cairo and Occupied France, Merlin and his team are plunged into an international investigation of espionage, murder, love and betrayal.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Contemporary, Novels, Crime, Thriller

496 pages, Paperback

First published July 6, 2017

About the author

Former barrister and businessman from Wales. Writer, podcaster, historian. CWA Dagger nominee. 2025 HWA Gold Crown Judge.

Author of 6 books in the Frank Merlin WW2 detective series:
Princes Gate (1) now retitled The Embassy Murders
Stalin’s Gold (2) now retitled In The Shadows Of The Blitz
Merlin At War (3) now retitled The French Spy
A Death In Mayfair (4)
Dead In The Water (5)
Death Of An Officer (6)

Some reviews of the Merlin series:
‘Immersive, authentic, evocative’ Fiinancial Times
‘Must-read for murder mystery lovers’ Daily Mail
‘Masterly….compelling’ Bestselling historian Andrew Roberts'
‘Unputdownable’ WW2 historian Robert Lyman
‘Dead In The Water is to my shame the first Mark Ellis book I’ve read. If the others evoke a vanished London so impressively, are graced with such complex plots and deep characterisation, and, above all, are written so well I shall have to read them all.’ The Times
‘Intriguing, masterly’ John Lawton bestselling author
‘Outstanding historical mystery’ New York Times bestseller Joe Finder
‘A potent mix of crime mystery and wartime thriller…excellent’ Alex Gerlis bestselling spy fiction writer
‘Pitch perfect’ Aspects of Crime Magazine
‘Miraculous’ Shots Magazine

Mark Ellis has also written Boom Time, a history of true crime in WW2 London

Reviews

[Stephanie Land · Rating 4 out of 5]

What is says on the tin.


I admittedly had a fun time with this novel. It is very much a historical mystery. It is grounded in the during the First World War and reflects that accordingly! This is a slow start but builds up as the plot develops. The ending is sweet and satisfying. Overall I enjoyed this work and look forward to what the author writes next.

Thanks to Mark Ellis and @Booktasters for being sent a copy of the book.

[Avighet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked the book, the story takes place during World War II, and I love reading about that time, even if it's fiction. I was definitely interested in following the story. An incredible spy thriller with plenty of twists and turns.

[Nkem Perpetual · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy mystery and spy stories, The French Spy by Mark Ellis is a great book to read! The story takes place in London during World War II and follows Detective Frank Merlin as he investigates different crimes whjch includes; a young girl’s tragic death, a French man being shot, and a secret letter from a British officer.
As the detective digs deeper, he uncovers shocking secrets that take him beyond London to places like France, Egypt, and Argentina. The book is full of action, surprises, and interesting characters.
This book is a mix of crime, history, and espionage, making it exciting from start to finish. If you love a good detective story with plenty of twists, you’ll enjoy The French Spy!

[Lady Clementina ffinch-ffarowmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to the author Mark Ellis for a review copy of this book via Booktasters.

The French Spy (2018) also published under the title Merlin at War is the third in a series of historical mysteries/police procedurals featuring Inspector Frank Merlin and set in World War II London. Besides the mystery threads, this series also weaves in the historical and war scenario (different developments at the point the book is playing out); issues of espionage and diplomacy (which are sometimes interwoven with their cases given the time) as well as the specific scenario in London, home at the time to several governments in exile. I haven’t been reading this series quite in order, but while it doesn’t bother me as much, since we follow developments in the characters’ personal lives and the department besides the mystery/mysteries, it probably makes more sense to read them in order.

In this complex tale (also the longest book I’ve read in the series so far at 500 plus pages), we follow several threads, which play out most over June 1941. In Crete, a small group of English soldiers, making its way to the vessel that is to evacuate them encounters the enemy. A dying officer, Simon Arbuthnot, hands over an important letter to his fellow officer Edgar Powell, but before he can tell him who this is to be given to, he dies. Powell, uncertain what to do, eventually decides to approach his old friend Frank Merlin, now Chief Inspector. Meanwhile in London, Merlin finds himself investigating the case of a botched illegal abortion, which has resulted in the rather cruel death of a young woman. Sometime later, another body is found, of a man murdered in his room. Merlin is at this time very shorthanded for Inspector Johnson has been sent away on another assignment while Constable Cole was already away because of developments in the previous books. Help comes in an interesting form, an American police officer Bernie Goldberg at the moment posted in London who is ‘lent’ to Scotland Yard. Alongside, in the offices of the Free French in London, there are rumours of a possible traitor or spy, leaking information to the Vichy regime, and one of the officers is charged with discovering the spy. These threads unfold and we follow several related characters as also Merlin and his team as they try to solve the two murders they start with and other developments and puzzles that get added on. Matters of inheritance and matters of the heart, dubious business dealings, and espionage are amongst the themes dealt with while in the background we also witness developments concerning the war.

Like the other books I’ve read in the series The French Spy is a well-plotted, engrossing and interesting read, and one which kept me guessing on all its various threads, especially on whether and how they would connect up. The multiple threads are easy to follow along and keep track of (with a large number of characters, a cast of characters would have been helpful, even though I didn’t entirely lose sense of who was who). One follows along with the different links and pieces the detectives pick up, but the picture properly comes together only at the end. There are some clues/observations that one realises the relevance of only in retrospect, which I found good fun. One of the mystery threads (the main one) also involves something which I especially enjoy but I’m not saying what since that’s something that is revealed as the story progresses.

While much of the action takes place in London, there are also parts of the mysteries connected with South America (specifically Argentina), and of course occupied France. We get a glimpse into matters like business and courts (and connectedly corruption and the different form of holdings) in the former, and some rather heart wrenching scenes in the latter involving both ordinary citizens (including little children) and operatives whose information is leaked to the Vichy regime.

I enjoyed the historical background and combination of real-life and historical characters. We see the tensions between the British and Free French—both Churchill and De Gaulle, and then in Syria between De Gaulle and Wavell, who was in charge of operations there. Wavell at the time is at the end of a less than successful stint in the Middle East and is headed to Delhi (He was to serve as Governor General of India, in which capacity, in one of those bookish coincidences he appeared in another book that I was reading at the same time). There is also the obvious animosity between the Vichy regime and the Free French who have very different approaches to the French occupation. In London, the bombings have for the moment ceased and citizens are finding the silence almost unusual though the damage is everywhere to be seen.

Besides the mysteries and historical aspects, we also follow developments in Merlin and his team’s lives; while I have been reading this series back and forth as I mentioned, I still enjoyed seeing how some characters I’d ‘met’ previously came on the scene and how certain relationships developed.

This is a series I’m very much enjoying reading, for the mystery elements and likeable characters, but especially so the historical background and elements, as the different books have cast light on various facets of how things were functioning, particularly the closer interweaving of diplomacy, espionage and regular police work at that time. This book made for another great instalment.

4.25 stars

[Elaine Tomasso · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would like to thank Netgalley and London Wall Publishing for a review copy of Merlin at War, the third novel in the DCI Frank Merlin series set in WWII London.

Frank and the team are called out to the scene of a botched abortion where both mother and baby have died. Trying to identify the victim and doctor, along with the two other men present takes them into wartime politics among the Free French and when the suspected abortionist is murdered the mystery deepens. In a separate storyline Lieutenant Edwin Powell, a friend of Merlin, witnesses the death in action of Captain Simon Arbuthnot and agrees to deliver a letter for him but unfortunately Arbuhnot dies before he can say who the letter is for. In the meantime Arbuthnot's shady business partners are all jockeying for position.

This is the first DCI Merlin novel I have read and I have mixed feelings about it. The plotting is first class with plenty of twists and turns and detail so the reader will have to concentrate to keep up. It is however a long book and I felt my attention flagging in the middle - "just get on with it" was my thought. I also feel that the format added to my inattention. The novel has a linear narrative but it is told from so many points of view that it is difficult to hold any thread as it may be several chapters before it appears again. Initially it is interesting as it throws up so many intriguing mysteries but after a while all the jumping about palls, especially on the extremely boring subject of Arbuthnot's business dealings. I think this could have been a much shorter, punchier read without the whole Arbuthnot storyline.

Mr Ellis has done a fine job with his historical detail, successfully weaving real characters into his narrative in an interesting and informative way. I really liked the death/murder plot and where it took the team (no spoilers) but the Arbuthnot plot is unnecessary, unconvincing and smacks of padding.

Merlin at War is not a bad book it just didn't hold my attention as I had anticipated.

[Dolf Patijn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mark Ellis brings us another Frank Merlin detective, set in WW II, filled with historical detail, and plenty of atmosphere. This time it incorporates the free French and Vichy France. There are a few murder cases to solve and things are also moving in Merlin's personal life.

Merlin At War is the third book in this series and at the same high standard as the previous ones. This is a great read for people who are interested in WW II England and detective novels, because even though it is set in wartime Britain, this series deals with crimes commited in England during the war and not so much the military side of the war.

I was really looking forward to this book because I really liked the previous ones and I must say, it didn't dissapoint. The story is engaging and Mark Ellis has a nice style of writing. Highly recommended. I'm looking forward to the next book.

[Mairead Hearne (swirlandthread.com) · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Summer 1941.

Four violent deaths, French double agents, an escalating fraud case – DCI Frank Merlin sets out on his most complex case yet.’

Merlin At War is the first book I have read by author Mark Ellis. Published by London Wall Publishing on 6th July 2017, my intention had been to read this novel over the Summer, but life got a little too hectic so it’s only now that I got around to picking up my copy.

I am so delighted I did!!

Read on to see why....

Can I just say from the offset that both the cover and size of this novel are perfect. The images are striking, with the German march on Paris portrayed on the upper half and a night scene in London of a man with his hat pulled down over his face on the lower half. Immediately there is an atmosphere evoked that just draws the reader in between the covers. Having not read a DCI Frank Merlin novel before, I was intrigued.

Mark Ellis has written two previous novels in this series, Princes Gate and Stalin’s Gold, both set during the early years of the Second World War. In Merlin At War, the year is 1941. The Vichy Government is in situ in France under the occupation of the German army. Churchill is faced with the Blitz that ravaged London. America is on the verge of declaring war on Germany, to help put a stop to the Nazi invasion across Europe. The world is in turmoil.

For DCI Frank Merlin and Scotland yard, criminal activity is at an all time high. Crime grasps the opportunity that the chaos of war brings.

Merlin At War opens with a dramatic scene, as English soldiers attempt an escape off the island of Crete under German aerial bombardment. With his dying breath, an English Officer urgently passes a letter to one of his compatriots, a letter that contains some very important information. This letter eventually makes it’s way back to London…but what are it’s contents?

Meanwhile, a body of a young woman is found in a hotel room in London. She is the victim of an abortion that was very tragically mishandled. DCI Merlin and his team are soon on the case, as a second body is discovered of a French national found in a Notting Hill flat.

It is up to Merlin and his team to solve these crimes and work out if and how they are all connected…..

DCI Frank Merlin is a very affable individual. Following on from major personal tragedy, he is now living with Sonia, a Polish immigrant.Their relationship is very obviously one of love from the outset, as they seem to have achieved a perfect balance in a world gone a little crazy.

Merlin, with an excellent work ethic, is determined to get to the bottom of this convoluted case. With calmness in his home life, he is able to give his undivided attention to the facts as they reveal themselves.

As details are uncovered, the reader is taken on a global journey. From Argentina to Northern Ireland, from London to Cairo, from Crete to Paris, I was almost expecting complimentary air miles after completing this novel.

Merlin At War is quite a complex novel. We get an insight into the war machine, with Charles de Gaulle , Franklin D Roosevelt and Winston Churchill all getting a mention. This is a book bursting with historical facts, all wrapped around a story that needs to be read with focus and concentration. For me personally, Merlin At War was not the type of novel I could fly through. This is a book that you appreciate and take your time with. There are numerous characters and there is quite a complex plot-line, moving across Europe and beyond.

DCI Merlin and his Scotland Yard team are an incredible group, all working away against the back drop of bombs and war. I thoroughly enjoyed it and most certainly recommend it to all history buffs and any individual with a fascination for this period in our past.

Merlin At War has a very authentic feel. As a reader you are completely immersed in a bygone era, as you imagine the chaos and turmoil that existed during those frightening years.

Merlin At War is foremost a detective novel. If you love a thrilling espionage-style story, like John Le Carre, then I expect this is right up your street.

Filled with duplicity, secrets and murder Mark Ellis has written an exciting novel full of nostalgic imagery, with an intriguing story at it’s core.

[Dave · Rating 3 out of 5]

Merlin at War is the third book in the historical detective thriller series featuring DCI Frank Merlin. Set in the midst of World War II, it is a mystery story that has enormous scope and constanty changing scenes. It opens with British troops under fire in Crete, then manages to shift to Egypt, and then to London, and then across the entire globe. This worldwide setting is very much appropriate for a story set in the midst of a world at war with the entire universe shifting underfoot every time someone blinked. You can tell that the author put an enormous amount of research into the historical underpinnings and even to the dialogue which rang absolutely true. Perhaps I would have been better served to have first read books one and two of the series, but I found that this was a tough book to wade through, thick as it was with constantly changing scenes and a host of seemingly unrelated characters and plot lines. Definitely an author to watch, though.

[Amelia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so I didn't read the first two books of this series, maybe I would have a better grasp of what's going on if I had, but oh well. It probably would have helped tie in the various plotlines and stories lost on me!
This was an intriguing novel with a well-developed plot that clearly had a lot of thought going into it. I liked the diverse lineup of characters and storylines that this book offered, giving us multiple POVs that created a much broader and open atmosphere.
There were some directions this book took toward the middle and end that lost me a little, my grasp of the concepts began to loosen because I started getting confused between all the characters and history and everything. Overall, I like the character dynamics and it's really well-written with very detailed language that made the experience so much more intimate :) I recommend for someone who is into lore-riddled thriller! Was wanting to know more the whole time hehe.

[Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first, the hardback edition of Merlin at War (Frank Merlin 3) is a beautiful looking book and would grace any bookself. The cover is inviting and the thickness is something to behold – probably an odd comment but it just begs to be read in front of a warm fire!

The third instalment in the Frank Merlin series sees Frank tackle The Free French, a vicious gambling boss and the odd problem or two closer to home. We travel the globe from Buenos Airies, France, Germany and of course London under threat of the Blitz. That said, the Blitz has drawn to a close – even though the locals didn’t know it at the time – a couple of months earlier but Londoners were perpetually concerned and prepared to act with little or no warning.

I really enjoyed the storyline, one thing mark Ellis has done throughout the series is relate history well. The books are informative and imaginative blending snippets of real life history with enthusiastic fiction. It makes you want to read and I guess you can’t ask for more as an author than that.

The storyline is fun and well told, the characters all coming to life – especially the regulars – but it all gives a true feel of what life was like deep in the Second World War. Animosity towards Jews from all corners, French and German collusion and within all that utter greed for money and power!

The book is a complex one with many subplots so you’ll have to concentrate, especially three quarters of the way through. I think the author could have wrapped things 50 pages earlier because it strayed down a path that I struggled to keep up. Having said that I was more than happy to continue on the strength of his previous titles. I’m glad I did.

The highlight of the book for me was the way in which everything was tied up, the tiny little details and relationships put to bed and I felt satisfied. He leaves the door open a little to hint at what comes next – and I have my ideas based on real life history – it’ll be interesting to see if I’m right!

Well thought out, well told and well structured. Another great read from the author. Da iawn Mark!

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mark Ellis' Merlin at War, featuring London DCI Frank Merlin, is the third in this series. In 2014, I read and enjoyed The Princes Gate, set during the phony war between September 1939 and May 1940, but I somehow missed Stalin's Gold, the second in the series which also received positive reviews.

Merlin at War takes place after the fall of France; the armistice between Vichy France and Germany is in effect, and the nominal government of France collaborates with Nazi Germany in reprehensible ways.

The book begins, however, in Crete where a team of British soldiers hope to escape and be evacuated. Only one man survives the perilous journey. The survivor carries a letter from his superior officer, but the officer dies before he can definitively designate the letter's recipient.

Ellis depicts a London during the nervous calm after the autumn Blitz of 1940: a young woman dies in a botched abortion; the French emigre doctor who performed the abortion is murdered; a traitor among the Free French delegation operating from London sends messages to the Vichy government with the time and place a young agent is to be dropped into France; there are a connections to Buenos Aires and New York.

Most of the book is a satisfying mystery with compelling historical elements, but the multiple subplots slow it down a bit. Nevertheless, Merlin at War presents a view of the war from many angles, and Ellis' main characters have depth and dimension.

Read in August; blog review scheduled for Sept. 27.

NetGalley/JKS Communications

Historical Mystery/WWII. Oct. 12, 2017. Print length: 490 pages.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

DCI Frank Merlin strikes again in this historical thriller taking readers all over the world. Amazing real historical research and facts will intrigue history buffs, and mystery lovers will have a ball!

[Deep Choudhary · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The French Spy, the third entry in Mark Ellis’ compelling DCI Frank Merlin series, wartime London once again serves as the perfect backdrop for a tale of layered intrigue, moral ambiguity, and relentless investigation. It is 1941. The Blitz has just ended, but Britain remains isolated, reeling from the fall of Crete and facing an enemy that dominates much of Europe. Against this tense political and military backdrop, Ellis delivers a crime drama that effortlessly merges the grit of a murder investigation with the high stakes of international espionage.



The novel opens with a harrowing case: a young woman dies after a botched illegal abortion, and the doctor responsible is murdered shortly afterwards. What begins as a localised, if tragic, investigation quickly expands in scope when Merlin is drawn into a second case—the shooting of a French émigré in a shabby Notting Hill flat—and the discovery of a cryptic letter written by a British officer recently killed in Crete. Each thread appears separate at first, but Ellis gradually weaves them together into a single, dangerous tapestry.



Merlin’s pursuit of the truth takes the reader far beyond London. From the shadowed streets of occupied France to the bustling avenues of New York, the political salons of Buenos Aires, and the sun-baked intrigue of Cairo, the novel spans continents while retaining its tight narrative control. Along the way, Merlin navigates a cast of vivid and often morally complex characters: French resistance fighters and collaborators, calculating financiers, foreign agents, and figures whose allegiances shift as readily as the tides of war.



Ellis’ command of historical detail gives The French Spy its distinctive authenticity. The political tension between Vichy and Free French factions, the economic manoeuvrings of wartime profiteers, and the covert operations that blur the lines between patriotism and betrayal are all rendered with precision. The atmosphere is palpable—this is London in wartime, where the physical scars of bombing raids are matched by the emotional strain of uncertainty.



What elevates the book beyond a standard murder mystery is its fusion of crime procedural and espionage thriller. The stakes are personal for Merlin, yet the implications of his investigation extend into the geopolitical sphere. By the conclusion, the reader has not only followed a masterfully plotted mystery but also been immersed in the messy, unpredictable reality of a world at war.



The French Spy is a standout instalment in the series—ambitious in scope, meticulous in its historical setting, and utterly engrossing in its storytelling. Fans of both classic detective fiction and richly plotted wartime espionage will find it a deeply rewarding read.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: The French Spy by Mark Ellis

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉The French Spy by Mark Ellis is the third book in the DCI Frank Merlin series and stands out as a striking blend of historical fiction, crime investigation, and espionage thriller. Set in 1941 during one of the most perilous moments of the Second World War, the story captures the unease of a world in turmoil. Britain is reeling from the fall of Crete, France is under Nazi occupation, and the war has left its mark on every nation, every street, and every family. Within this landscape of uncertainty, Detective Chief Inspector Frank Merlin is tasked with solving a series of cases that seem unconnected at first glance but soon reveal themselves to be part of a much larger and far more dangerous puzzle.

👉The novel opens with a disturbing case involving the death of a young woman after a botched illegal abortion. The doctor involved is soon murdered, and what seems like a tragic yet isolated event quickly spirals into something far more intricate. Merlin is drawn into another case when a French émigré is found shot in a shabby Notting Hill flat. Added to this is the discovery of a letter left behind by a British officer recently killed in Crete. These scattered threads gradually converge, leading Merlin into a complex investigation that spans not only London but also reaches occupied France, New York, Cairo, and Buenos Aires.

👉The strength of the novel lies in how Ellis manages to combine the tension of a murder mystery with the larger themes of international espionage. The cases Merlin pursues are rooted in human tragedy and crime, yet they expand into a world of political intrigue, shifting loyalties, and covert operations. Along his journey, Merlin encounters resistance fighters, collaborators, profiteers, spies, and agents whose motivations are never straightforward. Every character carries the weight of moral ambiguity, and the uncertainty of their true intentions keeps the narrative consistently tense.Ellis’ meticulous attention to historical accuracy gives the story an added layer of depth and credibility.

Happy reading 😁😁

#bookreview

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The poor girl died out of the blue’ – Mystery and intrigue in WW II

UK author and former barrister Mark Ellis continues his DCI Frank Merlin novels, THE FRENCH SPY being the third in the series that includes The Embassy Murders, In the Shadows of the Blitz, A Death in Mayfair, Dead in the Water, and Death of an Officer. The protagonist is an Anglo-Spanish police detective and the period is historically important as set in WW II. The author’s ability to establish atmosphere Is evident as the novel opens in in Crete in the year 1941: ‘It was nearly five o’clock when the three soldiers reached the end of the olive grove. The dust-filled air shimmered in the alate-afternoon heat. Their bodies ached, their uniforms were caked with dirt and sweat and they were hungry, thirsty and exhausted…’

The author’s ability to blend World War Two history with crime mystery is a gift; and in his hands, history becomes visual as the thriller unwinds. The plot is succinctly distilled as follows: ‘War rages across Europe. France is under Nazi rule. Britain has its back to the wall. In London, Scotland Yard detective Frank Merlin investigates a series of disturbing events - a young girl killed in a botched abortion, a French emigré shot in a seedy Notting Hill flat, a mysterious letter written by a British officer recently gunned down in Crete. With action spanning Buenos Aires, New York, Cairo and occupied France, Merlin and his team are plunged into a dark world of espionage, murder, love and betrayal.’

With just the right balance of historical reality and finely tuned mystery, this book adds to the growing audience admiration of Ellis’ titular hero – and a memorable cast of unforgettable characters. A treasure of a thriller!

[Charles Harned · Rating 5 out of 5]

The French Spy by Mark Ellis is a high-octane espionage thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Frank Merlin is a complex and engaging protagonist, and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Ellis has a real talent for creating believable and relatable characters, and Frank Merlin is no exception. He is a flawed hero, but he is also brave, resourceful, and determined. The supporting cast of characters is equally well-developed, and each one plays an important role in the story. The plot of The French Spy is fast-paced and exciting, and Ellis does a great job of building tension throughout the book. The action sequences are well-written and suspenseful, and the plot twists are genuinely surprising. Overall, I highly recommend The French Spy to anyone who enjoys espionage thrillers. It is a well-written and exciting book that will keep you entertained and unable to guess what comes next!

[Winibrop · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can count on Mark Ellis for an engaging historical fiction read. Once again, Mark Ellis's book, The French Spy, is an interesting World War II espionage thriller. It combines murder, military intrigue, and personal stakes to create a powerful mystery. Set in London just after the Blitz, DCI Frank Merlin investigates the death of a young lady linked to an illegal abortionist, which is quickly followed by another murder. Meanwhile, a letter from Crete may reveal fatal truths. As pressures between Vichy and Free French troops rise, Merlin must tackle politics, finance, and personal allegiance. The plot moves quickly, but Merlin's familiar approach and personality provide a solid foundation. This is historical crime fiction at its best, with a clever narrative and surprising twists. A great read and recommended.

[Honey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honestly, the book isn’t really my taste. It falls into the historical fiction and mystery genres. The story itself is quite interesting, and what I like the most is the plot. The plot is heavy, so there were some parts where I didn’t really understand what was going on, but overall, it was good. I really liked detective Frank for his logic and intelligence in breaking down the case. The book also had moral of the story like justice andsocial care during the war. I appreciate stories that have a moral lesson. Overall, I give this book 3.5/5 stars.

[Zainab · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you @booktasters for recommending this to me! If you like historical fiction, this book is for you!;

I love the thrill and tension on every page which really creates an immersive experience. The historical setting is surprisingly accurate which adds more to that thrilling feeling! This book is full of double agents, classical espionage and a thick plotline- perfect for thrill seeking, spy loving readers!! 🔍🔍

There are multi layers to everything and the characters have depth to them that really make the reader think twice before forming an opinion: not everyone is as they seem🎩🔍

[Kez Booth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you @booktasters and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The story is quite interesting but I struggled to get into it as is was not the kind of book I would normally choose to read. The plot was also a bit heavy and the pacing was slow at the beginning; this also made the book difficult to get into. The main character Frank is a good, developed moral character and well written - he is easy to root for. Overall a good read - great for those who like the historical fiction and mystery/thriller genres.

[Aurhormegandone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Ellis delivers another spellbinding tale with The French Spy. Set in a time when trust could mean death, this story immerses you in a gripping world of espionage and sacrifice. The characters are deeply layered, the plot twists sharp and clever, and the atmosphere rich with authenticity. Ellis’s writing flows effortlessly, blending historical realism with the suspense of a classic spy thriller. It’s not just a story about war — it’s a story about courage, loyalty, and the choices that define us...

Thanks Sir Mark Ellis 👏

[Swati · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book honestly kept me hooked. ..... and the story follows Detective Frank Merlin during World War II, as he tries to solve a murder that’s tangled up with spies, secrets, and betrayals. I liked how it wasn’t just a simple mystery...the plot had twists that made you question who to trust..
Some parts were a bit slow with history stuff, but I didn’t mind that tbh. The mix of mystery and spies, and war vibes kept me reading...

I hadd totally recommend this if you like cmysteries book with twists and historical vibes. I personally enjoyed it a lot.

[Fiona Noble · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, it’s a spy thriller set in the First World War with lots of intrigue and twists and turns in the plot to kept the reader entertained. However I have given it only 3 stars due to the fact that there were so many - too many? - characters. This made it slightly more difficult to follow but also all the links and relationships and inter-connected sub-plots could be a bit confusing. But it’s a good read, exciting in places and a well told story.

[Williamsjhonson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The French Spy by Mark Ellis is a masterful blend of suspense, history, and heart. Set in the shadow of war, it’s a gripping tale of loyalty, love, and betrayal. With sharp twists and richly drawn characters, Ellis delivers a captivating spy thriller that keeps you hooked till the last page💝

[Adbrowning Author · Rating 5 out of 5]

The French Spy is an absolute masterpiece—tense, elegant, and full of heart. Mark Ellis captures wartime espionage with breathtaking realism and emotion.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merlin at War (A DCI Frank Merlin Novel)

By

Mark Ellis

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉Step into the world of espionage, intrigue, and wartime suspense with Mark Ellis's "The French Spy." 🕵️‍♂️🌍 From its gripping opening pages to its intricately woven conclusion, this novel skillfully captures the essence of historical fiction and espionage thrillers, reminiscent of the iconic Tom Clancy.

👉Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows DCI Frank Merlin, a seasoned police investigator navigating the treacherous landscape of wartime London. Ellis's masterful storytelling is evident in his ability to seamlessly weave together a multitude of characters, subplots, and historical events. As perspectives shift and intertwine, readers are immersed in a multi-layered narrative that keeps you eagerly turning the pages.

👉Frank Merlin is a protagonist who truly comes to life, wrestling not only with the complexities of his profession but also with the challenges of a world in turmoil. The introduction of Bernie Goldberg, an American counterpart, adds a fresh dynamic to the narrative, highlighting the nuances of alliances formed during the war.

👉Ellis's prose is a true delight, painted with vivid descriptions and memorable lines that stay with you long after you've closed the book. His attention to historical detail transports you to a divided France, where Vichy negotiations contrast sharply with the efforts of Free France to uncover internal leaks. The author's language has the power to evoke emotions, painting a compelling picture of characters and their experiences.

👉What sets "The French Spy" apart is its ability to expertly navigate multiple storylines. From Lieutenant Powell's daring escape in Crete to the intricate negotiations that shape wartime Europe, each thread is meticulously crafted. Ellis's true brilliance lies in his skillful weaving of these threads into a cohesive tapestry, culminating in a satisfying and resonant ending.

👉If you're seeking a read that engages the mind and heart alike, "The French Spy" deserves a spot on your bookshelf. Highly recommended for those who crave a literary journey that leaves a lasting impression. 📖✨

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The French Spy" by Mark Ellis immerses readers in the gritty and suspenseful world of wartime espionage, offering a thrilling experience in a period fraught with tension and intrigue. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the author skillfully brings to life the era's historical context, particularly the London Blitz, which adds a vivid and atmospheric dimension to the story.

The protagonist, DCI Frank Merlin, takes the lead in this complex narrative, investigating a series of disturbing events that include a young girl's death due to an illegal abortion and the mystery surrounding a British officer's letter, a mission that might jeopardize his life. The diverse and intriguing characters in the novel play pivotal roles, with Merlin's team facing a dark world of espionage, murder, love, and betrayal.

What makes "The French Spy" truly captivating is the way it weaves together various storylines and perspectives, reminiscent of the style of Tom Clancy's best works. Just as Clancy's books follow a central character through different facets of a complex narrative, this novel adeptly balances multiple elements, skillfully intertwining them into a compelling whole. The transitions between various locations, including Buenos Aires, New York, Cairo, and occupied France, provide a dynamic and engaging narrative.

Mark Ellis's prose is a delight to read, with descriptions that vividly paint the characters and settings. The characters are not only well-drawn but also emotionally resonant, making readers genuinely care about their fates. Ellis also masterfully navigates the intricacies of wartime politics and espionage, making it an appealing read for both history buffs and fans of gripping war stories.

Whether you have an affinity for historical fiction, wartime thrillers, or intricate character-driven narratives, "The French Spy" offers an engaging, well-crafted story with rich detail and a plot that keeps you eagerly turning the pages. Mark Ellis has delivered a top-tier espionage novel that transcends the genre, making it a compelling and rewarding read for a wide range of readers.

[Chris Maddix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I confess to being a fan of Tom Clancy. I preferred the books that were written by Clancy himself, rather than those commissioned to follow Clancy series after the author's death, but they all have similar elements. They follow one main character (for Clancy that has been Jack Ryan), but they tell a number of different facets of a story in various areas, eventually skillfully weaving them together. I often thought of Clancy when reading Mark Ellis's The French Spy (originally titled Merlin at War). This fine book has all the elements of a good Clancy novel. The main character, Frank Merlin, is a police investigator, looking into a series of deaths, including a botched abortion. When Johnson, his principal assistant, is reassigned to MI-5, he is replaced by Bernie Goldberg, from the US. Previously, a lieutenant named Powell has escaped the Germans in Crete, and, as the soul survivor of his unit, is entrusted with a letter from Captain Arbuthnot. The captain's son becomes another player in the story. Meanwhile, the Vichy French attempt to negotiate with Germany while the free French are trying to uncover a leak in their organization. How does all of this tie together, and how do all of the characters become interrelated? It takes a writer with the skill of Mark Ellis to make that happen. Meanwhile, the prose is a joy to read, with examples such as "...he would have been attractive had he not looked for most of the time as if he had been sucking a particularly sour lemon in his small, thin lipped mouth."

If you like fictional history or war stories, this is the book for you. If neither of those is your cup of tea, I think you will still find value in this book.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merlin At War by Mark Ellis is the third book in the thrilling D.C.I. Frank Merlin series that has gripped me from the start. The books can each be read as a stand-alone but I would recommend reading them in order for maximum enjoyment.
In this book we catch up with Frank Merlin in the summer of 1941 as he continues to investigate crimes against the backdrop of World War II.
Merlin At War sees murder, fraud, spies, double agents and a botched abortion. Good and bad men alike are lost either to crime or war. Merlin At War is a fabulous crime suspense.
Mark Ellis has created a complex interwoven plot that crosses continents – England, France, Argentina - to name but a few. It is all very intriguing, keeping the reader on their toes and guessing. D.C.I. Frank Merlin is definitely a thinking man’s copper.
There is an eclectic mix of characters. Frank Merlin is extremely well drawn and likable. He is loyal, hard-working and fair. The reader has glimpses of his home life which enhances our experience of his character and makes him fully rounded.
I think the Frank Merlin books would translate perfectly into movies or television dramas. It is a shame that John Thaw is no longer with us as he would make a perfect Frank Merlin.
I am thoroughly enjoying all the Frank Merlin novels and cannot wait to read more of this crime busting series – write faster please Mark Ellis!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Pritee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The French Spy by Mark Ellis 💣🕵️‍♂️

Initial Plot:

In the chaotic backdrop of WWII, trust is a rare commodity. Mark Ellis takes us on a thrilling ride in The French Spy, blending real historical events with a gripping fictional espionage tale! 🇫🇷🇬🇧

✨ What makes it a page-turner

⚠️Authentic WWII Setting: From war-torn London to Vichy France, the historical detail is immersive, pulling you into the heart of wartime espionage.

👷‍♂️Complex Characters: DCI Frank Merlin is a detective you’ll root for, balancing the weight of war and personal loss. Lieutenant Powell's journey into espionage adds another layer of tension.

📍Intrigue Everywhere: Spy networks, political conspiracies, and moral dilemmas—all connected to the mysterious death of Captain Simon Arbuthnot, whose letter holds more than just words.

⚡️ A few twists, turns, and truths

Not everyone is who they seem—double agents, collaborators, and wartime secrets are skillfully woven into the plot.

The power struggle between the Vichy government and French resistance adds depth and drama!

And who can forget the moral grey zones—loyalty, survival, and deception are in constant flux.

📚 Final Thoughts:
The French Spy is a must-read if you're into WWII fiction laced with suspense, intrigue, and spy games! The author masterfully balances historical facts with a complex web of fictional espionage that’ll keep you guessing. 🔍

Thank you @booktasters_ for sharing the copy.