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Women Spies #3
L'Agent Double: Spies and Martyrs in World War 1
Three Women. Two Sides. One War to End all Wars.
When a war like no one has even seen rages through Europe in 1914, three women are set on a collision course with history.
As one of the first female pilots, Alouette is determined to join the war effort. She gets her chance when she is recruited by Captain Ladoux, head of France’s Secret Service. But is she willing to sacrifice everything for her country?
Marthe’s day job as a nurse requires her to help anyone in need, including the enemy. But at night she wanders the darkened streets of Belgium as a courier for Allied Intelligence. Can she keep up her dual roles without anyone finding out her secret?
The famed Mata Hari cares nothing for the war effort. If maintaining her lavish lifestyle means spying for whatever side pays her the most, then so be it. But the naive dancer is being set up for the most dangerous performance of her life.
The three women must navigate through a double agent’s world of deception and betrayal, and one of them will pay the ultimate price.
Told from the viewpoints of these real-life women, L’Agent Double: Spies and Martyrs in the Great War is meticulously researched and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Pick up this courageous tale of love, honor, and deception today!
When a war like no one has even seen rages through Europe in 1914, three women are set on a collision course with history.
As one of the first female pilots, Alouette is determined to join the war effort. She gets her chance when she is recruited by Captain Ladoux, head of France’s Secret Service. But is she willing to sacrifice everything for her country?
Marthe’s day job as a nurse requires her to help anyone in need, including the enemy. But at night she wanders the darkened streets of Belgium as a courier for Allied Intelligence. Can she keep up her dual roles without anyone finding out her secret?
The famed Mata Hari cares nothing for the war effort. If maintaining her lavish lifestyle means spying for whatever side pays her the most, then so be it. But the naive dancer is being set up for the most dangerous performance of her life.
The three women must navigate through a double agent’s world of deception and betrayal, and one of them will pay the ultimate price.
Told from the viewpoints of these real-life women, L’Agent Double: Spies and Martyrs in the Great War is meticulously researched and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Pick up this courageous tale of love, honor, and deception today!
418 pages, ebook
Published August 21, 2019
472 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Kit Sergeant
17 books98 followersLike her character Addy in Thrown for a Curve, Kit has a practically useless degree in marine biology. A teacher by profession and at heart, she loves to impart little-known facts and dares you to walk away from one of her "light-hearted" chick-lit books without learning at least one new thing. Kit's female leads are all intelligent, strong, and stand fine on their own... but then again, a Prince Charming waiting in the background is always appreciated. As long as he puts the toilet seat down.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 13, 2022
The begining was a nice grab you moment. I liked the stories about the three women who spied during World War I. They were engaging on a superficial level. Although I will say the story about Mata Hari was the most character developed of the three. You really got a sense that she was self absorbed and could have cared less about actually doing any spying. She wasn't unlikeable, just you understood that she had been poor and wasn't going back to that again. A bit Scarlet O'Hara style. The other two stories were nice butthe characters were not as well developed in my opinion.
My biggest complaint is how the book ended. The storylines just came to a halt with a "and they were arrested, tried for treason, and ..." type ending. The details were not well fleshed out and the book just came to a halt. To find out what happened to the women after the war you had to read the appendix. I felt more could have been told about their end stories.
This was a nice read. It took me a little bit to get used to the writing style of the author. It reads very much like a first novel - complete with stumbling sentences and a bit unclear wording at first. As the book continues these appear to smooth out. Or I just got used to it and it didn't bother me as much.
My biggest complaint is how the book ended. The storylines just came to a halt with a "and they were arrested, tried for treason, and ..." type ending. The details were not well fleshed out and the book just came to a halt. To find out what happened to the women after the war you had to read the appendix. I felt more could have been told about their end stories.
This was a nice read. It took me a little bit to get used to the writing style of the author. It reads very much like a first novel - complete with stumbling sentences and a bit unclear wording at first. As the book continues these appear to smooth out. Or I just got used to it and it didn't bother me as much.
November 8, 2022
I love that she used real women’s stories
I read a lot of books based on women in war time, but not many are based on true stories. I also read the spark of resistance which was a real page turner, Can’t wait for the next book to come out.
I read a lot of books based on women in war time, but not many are based on true stories. I also read the spark of resistance which was a real page turner, Can’t wait for the next book to come out.
March 31, 2024
Great Women.
Because of the very nature of their work we will never know all the truth of their agendas. I think that they worked ostensibly as double agents but that their reports favoured the allies. They were extremely bold and daring as the writings suggest. The book is a page turner but don't hold your breath!!
It was easy to follow the streams of the main characters c. f. some other books written in this style.
This book easily deserves its' place among the lives of all who died serving their countries at war, but especially in the espionage annals.
Because of the very nature of their work we will never know all the truth of their agendas. I think that they worked ostensibly as double agents but that their reports favoured the allies. They were extremely bold and daring as the writings suggest. The book is a page turner but don't hold your breath!!
It was easy to follow the streams of the main characters c. f. some other books written in this style.
This book easily deserves its' place among the lives of all who died serving their countries at war, but especially in the espionage annals.
September 6, 2020
I think they were wrong about Mara Hari
I liked this book. I felt bad about Mata Hari, however. Being a spy is one thing but a double spy seems much more difficult. There were so many people who were jealous of others that many innocent people were seen as collaborators when they weren't. That is what always gets me about WW2 or WW1 novels.
I liked this book. I felt bad about Mata Hari, however. Being a spy is one thing but a double spy seems much more difficult. There were so many people who were jealous of others that many innocent people were seen as collaborators when they weren't. That is what always gets me about WW2 or WW1 novels.
October 1, 2020
A Grand Slam!!
The first two books were excellent. This book, Kit knocked It out of the park!!!
She found three people whose exploits were fascinating. This book is a page turner.
The first two books were excellent. This book, Kit knocked It out of the park!!!
She found three people whose exploits were fascinating. This book is a page turner.
April 29, 2024
This was a very interesting and well written story of three women who risked their lives to spy for the allies in WWI. At first, I had a little trouble keeping them straight but it resolved itself as I kept reading.
August 12, 2024
This book was ok. Not one of my favorites. It spent most of the book talking about how they started, then the last chapter talked about how they ended up. It was a very abrupt end. It was a long, slow build and had a bunch of non important stuff. Then just ended. Kind of disappointing.
April 17, 2025
Amazing, brave women!
I would not have the nerve to be a spy as these women were. I have tremendous respect for them and all those who fought for freedom in WWI and WWII. I hope and pray that something like this never happens again.
I would not have the nerve to be a spy as these women were. I have tremendous respect for them and all those who fought for freedom in WWI and WWII. I hope and pray that something like this never happens again.
Read
September 14, 2020Great book about female spies! A little history and mystery thrown in to.
November 10, 2020
Mari Hari
This book really intrigued me. Such brave women were the spies during WW1. Well written and very fascinating. Highly recommend if you are curious about espionage.
This book really intrigued me. Such brave women were the spies during WW1. Well written and very fascinating. Highly recommend if you are curious about espionage.
February 14, 2021
Very simple
March 2, 2023
An interesting view on Mata Hari, always referred to as one of the greatest spies, but from this she seems rather incompetent and powerless
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2024
Did not finish
April 6, 2024
Pretty much three different stories about three women during WW1. Told in a very matter of fact tone, it was difficult to engage with the events.
May 15, 2025
Interesting stories about 3 different women who served as double agents in Europe during WW I.
January 3, 2020
Breathtaking Book of Real WWI Female Spies
Oh, my gosh! What an utterly fantastic book, a genuinely gripping read! I had read the previous book in the series about the Civil War female spies, but I believe that this book even surpasses that one. This book tells the tales of three female spies during World War I, one who may be perhaps the most notorious female spy ever, Mata Hari. The book follows the chronological order of the conflict, so we experience the war as it unfolds through time through these women's eyes and experiences. While, of course, the conversations and some scenes are wholly fictionalized, the author has done a tremendous depth and breadth of research into these real female spies of WWI. She made these women come alive on the page; their experiences are no less real. I found it easy to empathize with the two women who were on the right side of history. I particularly resonated with Marthe, as I could completely relate to her struggles through the war as I am a nurse myself. In modern times, the nursing ethical code is drummed into us from the first days of nursing school. Back in the day, women who were drawn to nursing might not have been taught ethics directly, but they would have had a moral code that included a depth of compassion and genuine care for humanity to do such a job as it was back then. I could completely understand her struggle with the different parts of herself, the nurse and the spy. I can't imagine what it would have been like to feel that pull, wanting to do the best for your country and allies but feeling the pain caused by the horrors you had to necessarily inflict on others. Doing what is right is sometimes a choice between the lesser of evils, and that certainly doesn't make it any easier to swallow.
The author pulls you right into the story, starting with a prologue that describes Mata Hari's death by firing squad. Each of these women is richly drawn, with some similarities between them but also some striking differences (as you might imagine). Interestingly, their paths crossed at times during the war. The descriptions of all that went on during this massive, war-to-end-all wars conflict (if only!) are completely captivating, keeping your interest (even if you know how it ends!). I absolutely adore that this author has chosen to honor the unsung female heroes (and a few bad girls) who helped shape history. It is fantastic that their stories are being shared in such a way. I find myself wondering what war and heroines this author will pick next. World War II, I imagine?
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
Oh, my gosh! What an utterly fantastic book, a genuinely gripping read! I had read the previous book in the series about the Civil War female spies, but I believe that this book even surpasses that one. This book tells the tales of three female spies during World War I, one who may be perhaps the most notorious female spy ever, Mata Hari. The book follows the chronological order of the conflict, so we experience the war as it unfolds through time through these women's eyes and experiences. While, of course, the conversations and some scenes are wholly fictionalized, the author has done a tremendous depth and breadth of research into these real female spies of WWI. She made these women come alive on the page; their experiences are no less real. I found it easy to empathize with the two women who were on the right side of history. I particularly resonated with Marthe, as I could completely relate to her struggles through the war as I am a nurse myself. In modern times, the nursing ethical code is drummed into us from the first days of nursing school. Back in the day, women who were drawn to nursing might not have been taught ethics directly, but they would have had a moral code that included a depth of compassion and genuine care for humanity to do such a job as it was back then. I could completely understand her struggle with the different parts of herself, the nurse and the spy. I can't imagine what it would have been like to feel that pull, wanting to do the best for your country and allies but feeling the pain caused by the horrors you had to necessarily inflict on others. Doing what is right is sometimes a choice between the lesser of evils, and that certainly doesn't make it any easier to swallow.
The author pulls you right into the story, starting with a prologue that describes Mata Hari's death by firing squad. Each of these women is richly drawn, with some similarities between them but also some striking differences (as you might imagine). Interestingly, their paths crossed at times during the war. The descriptions of all that went on during this massive, war-to-end-all wars conflict (if only!) are completely captivating, keeping your interest (even if you know how it ends!). I absolutely adore that this author has chosen to honor the unsung female heroes (and a few bad girls) who helped shape history. It is fantastic that their stories are being shared in such a way. I find myself wondering what war and heroines this author will pick next. World War II, I imagine?
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
September 4, 2019
One chapter in and I could not put this book down!
Espionage was a ruthless and pitiless game, even more so for women in the time of the Great War.
Accusations of suspicions and mistrust were rampant, surrounded by spys and double agents everywhere.
These women had to stay in hiding,or disguise themselves when need be, subjected to danger at any time.
M'Greet also known as Madam Mata-Hari, she is a dancer. M'Greet survived and made her living dancing for audiences in Paris. When the war broke out it made it so difficult for her. M'Greet decides to join the game of espionage.
Marthe Cnockaert, a nurse working at the hospital,helping the wounded. Marthe becomes a spy. Her family was abusively mistreated when the Germans invaded her town.
Alouette Richer, an aviator or airwoman as the Germans refer to it. Her plane was confiscated by them. Stranded trying to get safety. Alouette volunteered to help the French Government,and she became a spy.
All three of these women had to follow the utmost discretion. They felt strongly for the cause and their country,but knew the consequences.
They were prepared to die for it.
The only positive benefit about the spy business. They were paid handsomely by the Germans.
This author's books are incredibily researched. An informative and well written story,with strong engaging characters that will captivate the reader to the end. A definite must read from me.
Espionage was a ruthless and pitiless game, even more so for women in the time of the Great War.
Accusations of suspicions and mistrust were rampant, surrounded by spys and double agents everywhere.
These women had to stay in hiding,or disguise themselves when need be, subjected to danger at any time.
M'Greet also known as Madam Mata-Hari, she is a dancer. M'Greet survived and made her living dancing for audiences in Paris. When the war broke out it made it so difficult for her. M'Greet decides to join the game of espionage.
Marthe Cnockaert, a nurse working at the hospital,helping the wounded. Marthe becomes a spy. Her family was abusively mistreated when the Germans invaded her town.
Alouette Richer, an aviator or airwoman as the Germans refer to it. Her plane was confiscated by them. Stranded trying to get safety. Alouette volunteered to help the French Government,and she became a spy.
All three of these women had to follow the utmost discretion. They felt strongly for the cause and their country,but knew the consequences.
They were prepared to die for it.
The only positive benefit about the spy business. They were paid handsomely by the Germans.
This author's books are incredibily researched. An informative and well written story,with strong engaging characters that will captivate the reader to the end. A definite must read from me.
December 18, 2019
I enjoyed this story of three very different women who engaged in espionage during the First World War.
Marthe was probably my favorite due to her compassionate nature. The moral dilemma she faced because of 'destroying lives as a spy while saving lives as a nurse' further endeared her to me.
I also like Alouette, and I could feel her growing frustration as she remained virtually trapped in Madrid, risking her life to provide intelligence that was seemingly just ignored.
I can't say I liked M'greet (Mata Hari). Her actions were never completely selfless but were often completely selfish. At times I did feel sympathetically towards her, though, as it seems throughout her life she was betrayed by men she should have been able to trust.
Though this novel told the story of three women, I found it easy to follow as it was presented chronologically. Also, two of the women crossed paths more than once, and several secondary characters interacted with more than one of the women, so there was a nice sense of cohesion.
I've read and enjoyed all three of this author's spy novels, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
Marthe was probably my favorite due to her compassionate nature. The moral dilemma she faced because of 'destroying lives as a spy while saving lives as a nurse' further endeared her to me.
I also like Alouette, and I could feel her growing frustration as she remained virtually trapped in Madrid, risking her life to provide intelligence that was seemingly just ignored.
I can't say I liked M'greet (Mata Hari). Her actions were never completely selfless but were often completely selfish. At times I did feel sympathetically towards her, though, as it seems throughout her life she was betrayed by men she should have been able to trust.
Though this novel told the story of three women, I found it easy to follow as it was presented chronologically. Also, two of the women crossed paths more than once, and several secondary characters interacted with more than one of the women, so there was a nice sense of cohesion.
I've read and enjoyed all three of this author's spy novels, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
December 22, 2019
A wonderful World War 1 book. If you’re looking to get your history in an unusual manner, Kit’s books are where it’s at. Espionage and wartime with strong female mains. Another amazing book in this series! The characters are wonderful and I love seeing the little ways that their lives cross paths. I can’t wait to read the next one!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2020
L'Agent Double: Spies and Martyrs in World War I is the third book in the Women Spies series.
This book is a fascinating look at three female spies that played important parts in World War I. These spies included Alouette Richer, Marthe Cnockaert, and the infamous Mata Hari. The author brings history to life with this book that is well written and in chronological order.
I cannot wait for the next book in this enthralling series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
This book is a fascinating look at three female spies that played important parts in World War I. These spies included Alouette Richer, Marthe Cnockaert, and the infamous Mata Hari. The author brings history to life with this book that is well written and in chronological order.
I cannot wait for the next book in this enthralling series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
September 7, 2019
A wonderful and exciting take of WW1. Three women are involved in espionage, a very dangerous game. Totally gripping until the very end.
March 30, 2024
To be fearless!
I’ve enjoyed this series more than I thought I would. Such fearless, brave women! This is my third book so far.
I’ve enjoyed this series more than I thought I would. Such fearless, brave women! This is my third book so far.
October 3, 2024
Now im hooked on books about women spies@
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews