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Revolution Spy #1
The Bastille Spy
He was alive when he went in the mortuary. 1789. The Bastille is marked for destruction. Skirmishes in the city are rife and revolution is in the air. When a gruesomely murdered rebel is found in the prison morgue, a plot is suspected. English spy Attica Morgan, is laying low after an abortive mission. So when she's given an assignment inside the Bastille, her instinct is to run. Instead, she's offered a pardon, in return for solving the mystery of the dead revolutionary; and exposing a plot that leads to Marie Antoinette. But as tensions rise to breaking point in the city, Attica quickly realises she's in a race against time. Soon there could be no Bastille to investigate.
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Published June 16, 2020
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About the author
C.S. Quinn
8 books286 followersC.S. Quinn is a travel and lifestyle journalist for The Times, The Guardian and The Mirror, alongside many magazines. Prior to this, Quinn's background in historic research won prestigious postgraduate funding from the British Art Council. Quinn pooled these resources, combining historical research with first-hand experiences in far-flung places to create The Thief Taker's London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
September 3, 2019
Did I love this because I imagined Tom Hardy as Jemmy? Maybe. But that’s not the only reason, I promise.
I went into this knowing absolutely nothing about it. When I received it, I thought it was a murder mystery. I did not realise it was going to be about a bisexual Anglo-African female spy in 18th century Paris. I did not realise I was going to fall in love with the whole idea of this book. I didn’t even realise it was about Bastille Day until they said it right at the end of the book (yes, I’m slow to the take sometimes).
This was so different from anything I had ever read before. Yes, I’ve read books about women joining the navy before. I’m sure I’ve read books about pirates before, and YES, I have read books about royalty and court before. I have never read a book with all of the above in one space. Never did I think I needed this in my life, but here we are today still dreaming about the characters and the atmosphere of 18th-century Paris.
C. S. Quinn’s writing flows so well to the point where you truly feel like you’re a part of this book. It was so atmospheric the whole way through regardless of where they were – on a boat, at court, on the streets of Paris, in the Bastille. It made no difference. Everything was set up perfectly. It really was magnificent. I found myself teary-eyed at some points because the nostalgia evoked from the writing was so very real and I genuinely felt myself missing a time period I’ve never known. Yes, Quinn’s prose is THAT powerful.
The characters were just as spectacular. Attica was an absolute beast of a woman, truly wonderful in every way. If you love Sarah J. Maas’ Celaena Sardothien, or even Kiera Knightley’s powerful rendition of Elizabeth Swann in the Pirates of the Caribbean series, Attica is absolutely the female protagonist you need to devour next. She was sassy and strong and SO self-confident. I loved how she wasn’t forced into a relationship with Jemmy for the sake of the book, but that their banter blended so easily together that there was no doubt about their close friendship by the end of the book!
In my efforts to make this spoiler-free, I’ll end my review by saying that I truly do hope there is a sequel to this featuring the Scarlet Pimpernels! A huge thank you to Corvus and Atlantic Books for providing me with this book – aside from the shocking amount of typographical errors and repetitions of “she let out a breath she didn’t realise she was holding”, this might just be my favourite book of 2019.
I went into this knowing absolutely nothing about it. When I received it, I thought it was a murder mystery. I did not realise it was going to be about a bisexual Anglo-African female spy in 18th century Paris. I did not realise I was going to fall in love with the whole idea of this book. I didn’t even realise it was about Bastille Day until they said it right at the end of the book (yes, I’m slow to the take sometimes).
This was so different from anything I had ever read before. Yes, I’ve read books about women joining the navy before. I’m sure I’ve read books about pirates before, and YES, I have read books about royalty and court before. I have never read a book with all of the above in one space. Never did I think I needed this in my life, but here we are today still dreaming about the characters and the atmosphere of 18th-century Paris.
C. S. Quinn’s writing flows so well to the point where you truly feel like you’re a part of this book. It was so atmospheric the whole way through regardless of where they were – on a boat, at court, on the streets of Paris, in the Bastille. It made no difference. Everything was set up perfectly. It really was magnificent. I found myself teary-eyed at some points because the nostalgia evoked from the writing was so very real and I genuinely felt myself missing a time period I’ve never known. Yes, Quinn’s prose is THAT powerful.
The characters were just as spectacular. Attica was an absolute beast of a woman, truly wonderful in every way. If you love Sarah J. Maas’ Celaena Sardothien, or even Kiera Knightley’s powerful rendition of Elizabeth Swann in the Pirates of the Caribbean series, Attica is absolutely the female protagonist you need to devour next. She was sassy and strong and SO self-confident. I loved how she wasn’t forced into a relationship with Jemmy for the sake of the book, but that their banter blended so easily together that there was no doubt about their close friendship by the end of the book!
In my efforts to make this spoiler-free, I’ll end my review by saying that I truly do hope there is a sequel to this featuring the Scarlet Pimpernels! A huge thank you to Corvus and Atlantic Books for providing me with this book – aside from the shocking amount of typographical errors and repetitions of “she let out a breath she didn’t realise she was holding”, this might just be my favourite book of 2019.
August 1, 2019
Fast-paced and fun, with main character Attica and cousin Grace in almost constant peril.
What I liked:
-Short, generally action-packed chapters, and a writing style that kept me interested and wanting to know what would happen next.
-Attica was confident, dangerous, and constantly underestimated by everyone around her.
-Grace was a little harder to get to know, but showed determination to carry out the job her uncle had given her.
-The historical details about the lead-up to the French Revolution were great.
What I didn't like so much:
-The ending was a little bit of a letdown. I thought things were wrapped up a little too quickly and neatly.
-I did not think the title worked with the story, either, as it led me to believe the story would be about one thing and it turned out to be about something else.
What I liked:
-Short, generally action-packed chapters, and a writing style that kept me interested and wanting to know what would happen next.
-Attica was confident, dangerous, and constantly underestimated by everyone around her.
-Grace was a little harder to get to know, but showed determination to carry out the job her uncle had given her.
-The historical details about the lead-up to the French Revolution were great.
What I didn't like so much:
-The ending was a little bit of a letdown. I thought things were wrapped up a little too quickly and neatly.
-I did not think the title worked with the story, either, as it led me to believe the story would be about one thing and it turned out to be about something else.
February 1, 2021
I originally gave this 5 stars in 2019, but I think this time I will stick to 4 stars. I still very much enjoy these characters. I love their intimacy and their closeness, the banter they have between them. I'm still very much in love with the idea of Jemmy Avery. I am obsessed with Attica Morgan's fighting power, her confidence and prowess but also her moments of vulnerability that are so easy to miss.
The only reason I docked a star this time is that I'm a lot more socially aware now. I was very conscious while reading it of the fact that the author is a white woman writing a Black woman who has been freed from slavery but is still named on slave documents in Virginia. Quinn writes about the emotional experience of being freed from slavery and the way it has influenced her 'career' path of freeing people and ensuring human rights are adhered to. The content itself is not written in any harmful or derogatory way, but I do find it uncomfortable knowing that this isn't something Quinn truly understands and knowing that this character could have been better written by an Own Voices author.
So 4 stars for sheer enjoyment, but I won't hesitate from acknowledging that this perhaps isn't the book to pick up if you're trying to be more inclusive. Still, obtain it from the library if you're not willing to spend money on it, because who doesn't love a Black female bisexual spy who goes on a pirate adventure in Paris to lead a revolution that overthrows the French government?
Trigger warning: attempted rape, gore, death, discussions of slavery.
The only reason I docked a star this time is that I'm a lot more socially aware now. I was very conscious while reading it of the fact that the author is a white woman writing a Black woman who has been freed from slavery but is still named on slave documents in Virginia. Quinn writes about the emotional experience of being freed from slavery and the way it has influenced her 'career' path of freeing people and ensuring human rights are adhered to. The content itself is not written in any harmful or derogatory way, but I do find it uncomfortable knowing that this isn't something Quinn truly understands and knowing that this character could have been better written by an Own Voices author.
So 4 stars for sheer enjoyment, but I won't hesitate from acknowledging that this perhaps isn't the book to pick up if you're trying to be more inclusive. Still, obtain it from the library if you're not willing to spend money on it, because who doesn't love a Black female bisexual spy who goes on a pirate adventure in Paris to lead a revolution that overthrows the French government?
Trigger warning: attempted rape, gore, death, discussions of slavery.
January 29, 2020
Comic book history
I persevered to the end as it is a period I love but it was a struggle, not my cup of tea; a James Bond overblown plot throwing in every hackneyed trope and the kitchen sink. Some gripping pacy writing but ultimately shallow and the distorted fantasy history grew more irritating as the narrative progressed.
I persevered to the end as it is a period I love but it was a struggle, not my cup of tea; a James Bond overblown plot throwing in every hackneyed trope and the kitchen sink. Some gripping pacy writing but ultimately shallow and the distorted fantasy history grew more irritating as the narrative progressed.
July 5, 2019
A well written, well researched, engrossing and entertaining book.
I liked the plot, the fleshed out characters, and the descriptions.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked the plot, the fleshed out characters, and the descriptions.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
July 29, 2019
Loved it!
Set during the French revolution, this book tells the story of Attica Morgan, a female spy working for the English. Attica is sent on a mission to France involving the jewels of Mary Antoinette, but from the moment she leaves English soil, the mission starts to fall apart and she realises things are much more dangerous than first though.
This action-adventure had me gripped from the very first page. The main viewpoint is from Attica but there are snippets from other characters too which I absolutely loved. Grace had to be my favourite character and I spent a lot of the book just hoping that she was okay. I also loved Jemmy and would love to know more of his backstory. It felt you couldn't trust much of what he divulged to Attica though!
Overall, it was a brilliant book and I can't wait to read the next one.
Set during the French revolution, this book tells the story of Attica Morgan, a female spy working for the English. Attica is sent on a mission to France involving the jewels of Mary Antoinette, but from the moment she leaves English soil, the mission starts to fall apart and she realises things are much more dangerous than first though.
This action-adventure had me gripped from the very first page. The main viewpoint is from Attica but there are snippets from other characters too which I absolutely loved. Grace had to be my favourite character and I spent a lot of the book just hoping that she was okay. I also loved Jemmy and would love to know more of his backstory. It felt you couldn't trust much of what he divulged to Attica though!
Overall, it was a brilliant book and I can't wait to read the next one.
July 31, 2019
Good. Even though it took awhile to get going, once it did the story was fast paced and you can tell the story was researched well. Thank you Reader's First for the free copy.
August 4, 2019
A gripping, fast paced espionage thriller set during the French Revolution. Attica Morgan is a female English spy affiliated to The Sealed Knot Society and she has a date with the notorious Bastille to discover the whereabouts of her cousin, Grace, and also the location of a costly diamond necklace which belonged to Marie Antoinette. Along the way she meets charismatic pirate, Captain Jemmy Avery, (who did put me in mind of Captain Jack Sparrow☠️) and a host of other fictional and real characters including the infamous Maximilien Robespierre and Georges Danton.
This is a fun and entertaining read, a real rollercoaster of a ride. It gathers pace and never lets go until the end. I loved the mix of fact and fiction. There’s a great sense of time and place and ‘The Terror’ is vividly described. It’s very well written with some humour thrown in, easy to read and kept me captivated from the first page.
The Bastille Spy is the first in the Revolutionary Spy series and I look forward to reading the sequel. There is more than a hint of James Bond in this story, it’s action packed and full of ‘Q’ worthy gadgets. If you enjoy swashbuckling historical thrillers with a difference, this one’s for you.
This is a fun and entertaining read, a real rollercoaster of a ride. It gathers pace and never lets go until the end. I loved the mix of fact and fiction. There’s a great sense of time and place and ‘The Terror’ is vividly described. It’s very well written with some humour thrown in, easy to read and kept me captivated from the first page.
The Bastille Spy is the first in the Revolutionary Spy series and I look forward to reading the sequel. There is more than a hint of James Bond in this story, it’s action packed and full of ‘Q’ worthy gadgets. If you enjoy swashbuckling historical thrillers with a difference, this one’s for you.
August 5, 2019
Agentin Attica
Im amerikanischen Virginia aufgewachsen lebt Attica Morgan im Jahr 1789 in London, meistens jedenfalls. Von ihrem Vater Lord Morgan zwar anerkannt, aber doch nicht hundertprozentig gesellschaftsfähig. Doch so wie es sie in einigen Bereichen einschränkt, so ergeben sich in anderen Bereichen Möglichkeiten, die andere Frauen ihrer Zeit nicht haben. Attica ist im Auftrag ihrer Majestät häufiger undercover unterwegs. Sie befreit Landsleute, die in anderen Ländern in Not geraten sind. Und dafür wendet sie recht unkonventionelle Methoden an. Nun verschlägt es sie nach Frankreich. Ein Spion, den sie noch vor einiger Zeit gerettet hat, soll in der Bastille umgekommen sein.
Am Vorabend der französischen Revolution kommt die junge Engländerin nach Paris. Sie will aufklären, wieso ein anderer Agent umgebracht wurde. Gleichzeitig sucht sie ihre Cousine Grace, die ebenfalls in geheimer Mission unterwegs ist. Eine Mission, die eigentlich nicht gefährlich sein sollte, doch nun ist Grace verschwunden. In Paris brodelt es, das Volk hungert und muss doch dem König seine Verschwendung bezahlen. Das kann nicht mehr ewig gutgehen und schon kommt es zu kleineren Scharmützeln. Doch auch die Männer des Königs ruhen nicht und noch immer muss das gemeine Volk an ihnen leiden. Kein Wunder, dass der Gedanke aufkommt, sich zu wehren.
Attica Morgan ist eine fast überirdische Heldin, sie spricht mehrere Sprache, sie kann kämpfen und sie sieht gut aus. Und doch ist ihr Leben nicht perfekt. Da ihre Mutter aus den amerikanischen Kolonien stammt, kann Attica nicht die gesellschaftliche Stellung einnehmen, die ihr als Tochter ihres Vaters eigentlich zustünde. Doch für ihre Zeit macht sie das Beste daraus. Ihr ist ein recht abenteuerliches Leben vergönnt. Als Spionin reist sie durch Europa und in diesem ersten Band einer Reihe verschlägt es sie nach Paris. Die Revolution ist kurz vor dem Ausbruch und damit wird die Stadt für eine Dame von Stand zu einem gefährlichen Pflaster. Doch Attica boxt sich durch. Unklar bleibt jedoch lange, ob sie ihre Aufgabe erfüllen kann.
Die Darstellung von Attica ist etwas überhöht und so vermag man sich manchmal nicht in sie hineinzuversetzen. Gleichwohl wirkt sie in ihrer Stärke und unterschwelligen Zerrissenheit sympathisch. Da möchte man ihren Zeitgenossen manchmal den gleichen Mut wünschen. Spannend ist der Einblick in die beginnende Revolution. Hier schildert die Autorin mit fesselnden Worten wie das unterdrückte Volk empfunden haben muss, die Dekadenz und Arroganz der herrschenden Klasse, die nur auf ihren Untergang hinarbeitet. Beeindruckend ist die Darstellung des Sturms auf die Bastille. Dieser erste Band einer Reihe lässt durchaus noch Luft nach oben, macht aber durchaus neugierig auf weitere Abenteuer von Attica Morgan.
3,5 Sterne
Im amerikanischen Virginia aufgewachsen lebt Attica Morgan im Jahr 1789 in London, meistens jedenfalls. Von ihrem Vater Lord Morgan zwar anerkannt, aber doch nicht hundertprozentig gesellschaftsfähig. Doch so wie es sie in einigen Bereichen einschränkt, so ergeben sich in anderen Bereichen Möglichkeiten, die andere Frauen ihrer Zeit nicht haben. Attica ist im Auftrag ihrer Majestät häufiger undercover unterwegs. Sie befreit Landsleute, die in anderen Ländern in Not geraten sind. Und dafür wendet sie recht unkonventionelle Methoden an. Nun verschlägt es sie nach Frankreich. Ein Spion, den sie noch vor einiger Zeit gerettet hat, soll in der Bastille umgekommen sein.
Am Vorabend der französischen Revolution kommt die junge Engländerin nach Paris. Sie will aufklären, wieso ein anderer Agent umgebracht wurde. Gleichzeitig sucht sie ihre Cousine Grace, die ebenfalls in geheimer Mission unterwegs ist. Eine Mission, die eigentlich nicht gefährlich sein sollte, doch nun ist Grace verschwunden. In Paris brodelt es, das Volk hungert und muss doch dem König seine Verschwendung bezahlen. Das kann nicht mehr ewig gutgehen und schon kommt es zu kleineren Scharmützeln. Doch auch die Männer des Königs ruhen nicht und noch immer muss das gemeine Volk an ihnen leiden. Kein Wunder, dass der Gedanke aufkommt, sich zu wehren.
Attica Morgan ist eine fast überirdische Heldin, sie spricht mehrere Sprache, sie kann kämpfen und sie sieht gut aus. Und doch ist ihr Leben nicht perfekt. Da ihre Mutter aus den amerikanischen Kolonien stammt, kann Attica nicht die gesellschaftliche Stellung einnehmen, die ihr als Tochter ihres Vaters eigentlich zustünde. Doch für ihre Zeit macht sie das Beste daraus. Ihr ist ein recht abenteuerliches Leben vergönnt. Als Spionin reist sie durch Europa und in diesem ersten Band einer Reihe verschlägt es sie nach Paris. Die Revolution ist kurz vor dem Ausbruch und damit wird die Stadt für eine Dame von Stand zu einem gefährlichen Pflaster. Doch Attica boxt sich durch. Unklar bleibt jedoch lange, ob sie ihre Aufgabe erfüllen kann.
Die Darstellung von Attica ist etwas überhöht und so vermag man sich manchmal nicht in sie hineinzuversetzen. Gleichwohl wirkt sie in ihrer Stärke und unterschwelligen Zerrissenheit sympathisch. Da möchte man ihren Zeitgenossen manchmal den gleichen Mut wünschen. Spannend ist der Einblick in die beginnende Revolution. Hier schildert die Autorin mit fesselnden Worten wie das unterdrückte Volk empfunden haben muss, die Dekadenz und Arroganz der herrschenden Klasse, die nur auf ihren Untergang hinarbeitet. Beeindruckend ist die Darstellung des Sturms auf die Bastille. Dieser erste Band einer Reihe lässt durchaus noch Luft nach oben, macht aber durchaus neugierig auf weitere Abenteuer von Attica Morgan.
3,5 Sterne
August 8, 2019
Attica Morgan is one heck of a heroine. She may be from the wrong side of the tracks and not at all at home in London's High Society but her paternity means that is where she belongs. Strong, smart and with an overwhelming sense of justice nothing is going to stop Attica and her Mangbetu knife. Throw in a spy ring, a pirate and an impenetrable prison and you know you are in for a bumpy and breathtaking ride.
The book takes you from Empress Catherine's Russia to the salons of London; from the parliament buildings of Westminster to an elegant Pirate rig; from the streets of Revolutionary Paris to houses of ill repute; from the plaster mines under Paris to the very heart of the Bastille. Attica never stops for long and drags the reader tearing along with her.
There is just enough historical accuracy thrown in to the mix to give the story a nice edge of veracity. Certainly the tension on the French streets is well realised on the page and there is a genuine sense of peril. I particularly loved Robespierre's misunderstanding of the codenames - even so early in the book that gave me a little chuckle (although for some reason my mind kept going to The Black Fingernail rather than The Scarlet Pimpernel).
The plot swoops along at a fair old lick and you do need to pay attention to keep up. There is a little bit of switching up the points of view going on so you do get to hear directly from Robespierre (actually, he is quite sympathetically drawn in the book and not the cardboard cutout villain that he easily could have been). There are also little sections narrated by the duped Grace Elliott but the majority of the tale is told by Attica. This is no bad thing as she is a fun, and flawed, character with a strong voice that comes alive in your mind as you read.
There are some strongly realised action scenes, particularly when you toss Jemmy in to the mix and the assault on the Bastille is both highly enjoyable and perilous. Loved the swooping from on high in true piratical fashion.
This was a fun story that gave me an awful lot of pleasure in it's reading.
THIS IS AN HONEST REVIEW OF A FREE COPY OF THE BOOK RECEIVED FROM READERS FIRST.
The book takes you from Empress Catherine's Russia to the salons of London; from the parliament buildings of Westminster to an elegant Pirate rig; from the streets of Revolutionary Paris to houses of ill repute; from the plaster mines under Paris to the very heart of the Bastille. Attica never stops for long and drags the reader tearing along with her.
There is just enough historical accuracy thrown in to the mix to give the story a nice edge of veracity. Certainly the tension on the French streets is well realised on the page and there is a genuine sense of peril. I particularly loved Robespierre's misunderstanding of the codenames - even so early in the book that gave me a little chuckle (although for some reason my mind kept going to The Black Fingernail rather than The Scarlet Pimpernel).
The plot swoops along at a fair old lick and you do need to pay attention to keep up. There is a little bit of switching up the points of view going on so you do get to hear directly from Robespierre (actually, he is quite sympathetically drawn in the book and not the cardboard cutout villain that he easily could have been). There are also little sections narrated by the duped Grace Elliott but the majority of the tale is told by Attica. This is no bad thing as she is a fun, and flawed, character with a strong voice that comes alive in your mind as you read.
There are some strongly realised action scenes, particularly when you toss Jemmy in to the mix and the assault on the Bastille is both highly enjoyable and perilous. Loved the swooping from on high in true piratical fashion.
This was a fun story that gave me an awful lot of pleasure in it's reading.
THIS IS AN HONEST REVIEW OF A FREE COPY OF THE BOOK RECEIVED FROM READERS FIRST.
July 31, 2019
I was not expecting much from the look of the book and the synopsis but was carried away by such a well written exciting adventure story. I could hardly put it down.
Attica Morgan, a female English spy in Paris 1789 during the French Revolution, risking all to succeed in her task, but surprisingly it was believable! Trying to rescue her cousin and some diamonds from the Bastille seems an impossible task! But she has a little help from a handsome privateer!
Well crafted likeable heroes and smooth prose combine to make this book a joy to read.
Don’t take this book at face value or you could miss one of the best novels of the year.
I can recommend it to anyone who is looking for something a bit different to read.
I was given this book in return for an honest review
Attica Morgan, a female English spy in Paris 1789 during the French Revolution, risking all to succeed in her task, but surprisingly it was believable! Trying to rescue her cousin and some diamonds from the Bastille seems an impossible task! But she has a little help from a handsome privateer!
Well crafted likeable heroes and smooth prose combine to make this book a joy to read.
Don’t take this book at face value or you could miss one of the best novels of the year.
I can recommend it to anyone who is looking for something a bit different to read.
I was given this book in return for an honest review
April 5, 2020
This novel is not quite what I expected. It’s historical fiction, but mostly it’s adventure. It seems the main character is being chased throughout the novel, which I never enjoy in novels.
The errors in the novel are distracting. “Single men a giving them a wide birth” and “Don’t pretend that is your principle concern” are two examples. And I’m still trying to figure out how one’s dress can fall loosely around the shoulders. That really stopped my reading as I was trying to picture it.
I did enjoy the historical aspect. The story takes place during the French revolution, in the days before “prise de la Bastille.”
The errors in the novel are distracting. “Single men a giving them a wide birth” and “Don’t pretend that is your principle concern” are two examples. And I’m still trying to figure out how one’s dress can fall loosely around the shoulders. That really stopped my reading as I was trying to picture it.
I did enjoy the historical aspect. The story takes place during the French revolution, in the days before “prise de la Bastille.”
August 7, 2019
If you like historical fiction, this book is for you. If you don't, you just might become a fan of this genre after reading this well-written tale that moves at lightning speed. Set at the time of the French Revolution, the story involves escapades worthy of James Bond and Indiana Jones rolled into one. The main characters are female. Both are formidable and non-traditional with Attica taking the lead. She is the daughter of a nobleman from England and an African slave and her prowess, quick mind and ability with a Mangbetu knife boggles the mind. She is an English spy. The second lead is Grace, her more feminine cousin. Equally spirited and likeable, like Attica her come back lines elevate her in the reader's mind and keeps one glued and routing for these two women to complete their missions successfully. They are most ably assisted by Jemmy, a gem of a pirate whose sense of humour had me in stitches and provided some relief to the tenseness of the situation surrounding the storming of the Bastille when nobility disregarded the man in the street who starved, while the king and his pleasures displayed vulgar debauchery and waste. 5 Stars!
August 1, 2019
I loved this book from start to finish and I would like to give it more than 5*. Where to begin? If you love historical novels, this one is for you. If you love a good swashbuckle, this one's for you. If you like strong female characters, we have two. If you love a funny loveable pirate, this one's for you. If you love a brilliantly written story, this is definitely for you. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It was my first C.S.Quinn read but it most certainly won't be my last.
August 19, 2020
I've already read this book but wanted to read it again for various reasons and so I went for the audiobook. It was a delight! I absolutely loved it. Fantastic narration.
August 1, 2019
England’s best spy, in this novel set in only just pre-Revolution Paris (1789), is Attica Morgan. Yes, in a time where a woman was deemed to be the fairer, weaker sex, Attica is a ruthless, all-action spy in His Majesty’s Government. And I loved her.
I’ve no idea how likely this would have been, and largely speaking, I don’t actually care. This book is non-stop action, as Attica is asked to investigate the murder of a rebel in the Bastille. She sees how dangerous Paris is becoming, and how the French royal family really don’t care about their poorer subjects. Attica teams up with a Privateer/ Pirate to complete her mission - and I found myself wondering (and hoping - see point 2):
1. When the next book will be coming out*, and
2. Will he be in it!
*for the record, I know that this book has only just released, and I’m firmly of the opinion that authors should take as long as they want/ need to take over writing their books. Can’t help but want to see more of these fabulous characters though!
Attica’s backstory is fascinating: the bastard daughter of a British nobleman who has escaped from slavery, educated and brought up as a Lady, she is expected to marry to her family’s advantage (or to that of the Crown). Attica doesn’t really like playing by the rules though, and trains to be a spy - which sounds brutal, but prepares her for some pretty risky missions.
The French people generally, whether Royalists or Republicans, don’t come off terribly well. The Republicans all seem to be pretty bloodthirsty and immoral, the Royalists are ‘just’ immoral. So, happy days (I should also say here that I know lots of lovely French people who are neither immoral or bloodthirsty. Just to make that clear 😉)!
Have I said how much I liked this book? Because I really did. If you want a fun, exciting, historical fiction novel, then this will be right up your street. I’m definitely putting this in my ‘Look out for the next in the series’ watchlist (yes, I really do have one of those).
Many thanks to Jellybooks who provided me with a copy of this book to read and review all the way back in April 2019! I’ve had to try very hard to keep this under my hat since then!
I’ve no idea how likely this would have been, and largely speaking, I don’t actually care. This book is non-stop action, as Attica is asked to investigate the murder of a rebel in the Bastille. She sees how dangerous Paris is becoming, and how the French royal family really don’t care about their poorer subjects. Attica teams up with a Privateer/ Pirate to complete her mission - and I found myself wondering (and hoping - see point 2):
1. When the next book will be coming out*, and
2. Will he be in it!
*for the record, I know that this book has only just released, and I’m firmly of the opinion that authors should take as long as they want/ need to take over writing their books. Can’t help but want to see more of these fabulous characters though!
Attica’s backstory is fascinating: the bastard daughter of a British nobleman who has escaped from slavery, educated and brought up as a Lady, she is expected to marry to her family’s advantage (or to that of the Crown). Attica doesn’t really like playing by the rules though, and trains to be a spy - which sounds brutal, but prepares her for some pretty risky missions.
The French people generally, whether Royalists or Republicans, don’t come off terribly well. The Republicans all seem to be pretty bloodthirsty and immoral, the Royalists are ‘just’ immoral. So, happy days (I should also say here that I know lots of lovely French people who are neither immoral or bloodthirsty. Just to make that clear 😉)!
Have I said how much I liked this book? Because I really did. If you want a fun, exciting, historical fiction novel, then this will be right up your street. I’m definitely putting this in my ‘Look out for the next in the series’ watchlist (yes, I really do have one of those).
Many thanks to Jellybooks who provided me with a copy of this book to read and review all the way back in April 2019! I’ve had to try very hard to keep this under my hat since then!
August 1, 2019
A swashbuckling adventure in pre-Revolutionary France
My thanks to Corvus Books for an eARC via NetGalley of C.S. Quinn’s ‘The Bastille Spy’ in exchange for an honest review.
Double thanks are due as I also participated in The Pigeonhole’s group read and was able to share my thoughts and comments with other readers as we read through the daily chapters. C. S. Quinn also joined us and shared aspects of her research and writing process.
On the cusp of the French Revolution, Attica Morgan, daughter of an English Lord, is sent to Paris on an important mission. Attica may be a member of high society but she leads a double life as an English spy, a secret assassin, and fierce fighter. Move over James Bond!
We are introduced to Attica in a very dramatic cold open and after a trip to London to check in with her superiors in the Sealed Knot, the action doesn’t let up! I don’t want to say too much about the plot to avoid spoilers but it’s just brilliant.
It is written with flare and although there are violent scenes, Quinn tempers this with wit and repartee. There is also a sprinkling of classic fairytale imagery.
Attica was such a brilliant, fierce protagonist. The supporting characters were also memorable including her cousin, Grace, and the privateer, Jemmy Avery.
‘The Bastille Spy’ is very much in the tradition of swashbuckling adventures and heroes such as Indiana Jones rather than the more realistic style of historical fiction. It’s an exciting and entertaining romp.
Still her period setting is clearly well researched with attention to detail, including fashion. I was very impressed with Quinn’s weaving in of actual events that occurred in the days leading up to the fall of the Bastille.
In her acknowledgements she included some of her sources to allow interested readers to delve deeper into this fascinating period of European history.
While this the first book that I have read by Quinn, I am aware of her ‘Thief Taker’ series. I now hope to read these as well as look forward to more adventures for Attica.
5 stars for providing such an engaging fun read!
My thanks to Corvus Books for an eARC via NetGalley of C.S. Quinn’s ‘The Bastille Spy’ in exchange for an honest review.
Double thanks are due as I also participated in The Pigeonhole’s group read and was able to share my thoughts and comments with other readers as we read through the daily chapters. C. S. Quinn also joined us and shared aspects of her research and writing process.
On the cusp of the French Revolution, Attica Morgan, daughter of an English Lord, is sent to Paris on an important mission. Attica may be a member of high society but she leads a double life as an English spy, a secret assassin, and fierce fighter. Move over James Bond!
We are introduced to Attica in a very dramatic cold open and after a trip to London to check in with her superiors in the Sealed Knot, the action doesn’t let up! I don’t want to say too much about the plot to avoid spoilers but it’s just brilliant.
It is written with flare and although there are violent scenes, Quinn tempers this with wit and repartee. There is also a sprinkling of classic fairytale imagery.
Attica was such a brilliant, fierce protagonist. The supporting characters were also memorable including her cousin, Grace, and the privateer, Jemmy Avery.
‘The Bastille Spy’ is very much in the tradition of swashbuckling adventures and heroes such as Indiana Jones rather than the more realistic style of historical fiction. It’s an exciting and entertaining romp.
Still her period setting is clearly well researched with attention to detail, including fashion. I was very impressed with Quinn’s weaving in of actual events that occurred in the days leading up to the fall of the Bastille.
In her acknowledgements she included some of her sources to allow interested readers to delve deeper into this fascinating period of European history.
While this the first book that I have read by Quinn, I am aware of her ‘Thief Taker’ series. I now hope to read these as well as look forward to more adventures for Attica.
5 stars for providing such an engaging fun read!
December 28, 2025
An entertaining story that would suit a movie more. Not exactly the type of historical mystery I read generally but it was good to be in the midst of the French revolution.
July 28, 2020
I received a free copy from Readers First in exchange for an honest review.
The main character in this book is a female spy in the era of the French Revolution, a very rare profession for a female in that era and she is a well respected one amongst her peers in the Sealed Knot (a mysterious organisation i hope is explored more in future novels). I almost couldn't believe this was a first in a series, it felt like we were joining the Attica Morgan story partway through with so many references to her past exploits, there is definite room for more into her early life, as well as any further adventures which i hope there are plenty more of.
I was a little worried when the privateer captain Jemmy turned up that we were going to fall into cliche romance territory, but Attica Morgan more than held her own and didn't let me down.
The writing style felt comfortable to me in the reading, it flowed well with nice short chapters that kept the action moving along. The research that went into the piece was evident, but it never felt that something was shoehorned in just to show how much the author knows, everything served a purpose.
The main character in this book is a female spy in the era of the French Revolution, a very rare profession for a female in that era and she is a well respected one amongst her peers in the Sealed Knot (a mysterious organisation i hope is explored more in future novels). I almost couldn't believe this was a first in a series, it felt like we were joining the Attica Morgan story partway through with so many references to her past exploits, there is definite room for more into her early life, as well as any further adventures which i hope there are plenty more of.
I was a little worried when the privateer captain Jemmy turned up that we were going to fall into cliche romance territory, but Attica Morgan more than held her own and didn't let me down.
The writing style felt comfortable to me in the reading, it flowed well with nice short chapters that kept the action moving along. The research that went into the piece was evident, but it never felt that something was shoehorned in just to show how much the author knows, everything served a purpose.
November 15, 2020
What a fantastic, breathless, fun book this is. The historical setting is rich and eventful of course but barely a page turns without another wonderfully entertaining escapade befalls our heroine, Attica Morgan. A British spy that James Bond could learn a trick or two from, Attica's story is told with great pace, humour and historical detail.
All the key historical characters are featured in the book and, alongside the twists and turns in the drama, CS Quinn weave a lot of period detail. This is a sensual as well as action-packed book.
I read it in three days, which shows how it held my interest. Normally takes me a week to read a book.
The book has been rightly longlisted for the Historical Writers Association Historia magazines Crowns award.
All the key historical characters are featured in the book and, alongside the twists and turns in the drama, CS Quinn weave a lot of period detail. This is a sensual as well as action-packed book.
I read it in three days, which shows how it held my interest. Normally takes me a week to read a book.
The book has been rightly longlisted for the Historical Writers Association Historia magazines Crowns award.
August 1, 2019
The Bastille Spy is a great, exciting historical fiction set around the storming of the Bastille during the French Revolution. Attica Morgan is an English spy sent to Paris, and her journey is exciting, tense, and based around real historical events. This is the first in a new series, and I look forward to reading the next one!
The chapters are short and keep the pace quick throughout the entire novel. The events happened in a short space of time, and the tension in Paris, the unrest, anger, urgency and suspicion, is built into the narrative well. It was a real page turner. It is mostly told in first person present tense (from Attica's point of view), which I found a little strange at first and I think this is the first historical fiction I've read which has used present tense. But I soon got used to this, and then it felt completely right for the story. Some other characters also have the narrative focus for the odd chapter, sometimes just for one. Being such an important and complicated event, I really liked that these different view points were explored and they all linked the different threads in the book together well.
I loved how well researched the novel seemed, and how the details of the time came through, while the focus was kept on the events and action. As said by the author, the real events that the book is based on seem so fantastical that they are difficult to believe! Attica and her fictional mission and motives were a great lens to tell the true parts of the story through.
Overall, I recommend this to anyone who likes an exciting historical fiction, as long as you aren't put off by a bit of violence (the book is set during a bloody time, but the violence in the book was never unnecessary or graphic).
The chapters are short and keep the pace quick throughout the entire novel. The events happened in a short space of time, and the tension in Paris, the unrest, anger, urgency and suspicion, is built into the narrative well. It was a real page turner. It is mostly told in first person present tense (from Attica's point of view), which I found a little strange at first and I think this is the first historical fiction I've read which has used present tense. But I soon got used to this, and then it felt completely right for the story. Some other characters also have the narrative focus for the odd chapter, sometimes just for one. Being such an important and complicated event, I really liked that these different view points were explored and they all linked the different threads in the book together well.
I loved how well researched the novel seemed, and how the details of the time came through, while the focus was kept on the events and action. As said by the author, the real events that the book is based on seem so fantastical that they are difficult to believe! Attica and her fictional mission and motives were a great lens to tell the true parts of the story through.
Overall, I recommend this to anyone who likes an exciting historical fiction, as long as you aren't put off by a bit of violence (the book is set during a bloody time, but the violence in the book was never unnecessary or graphic).
September 12, 2019
If I could use one word to describe this book it would be 'enjoyable'. The action is fast-paced, which is helped by the fact that all chapters are very small. This style is one of my personal favourites because I find it helps readers get through the book faster. At over 100 chapters spread across 410 pages you can't get much more fast paced than that! I also found the book to have an educational value, which will be even more the case for someone who doesn't know much about the Bastille or French history in general. The author capitalises on this in the end with an interesting 'truth of fiction' questionnaire which I thought was quite a good idea. The plot unravels quite well and the author creates quite interesting characters for protagonists. I liked the 'light hearted sense of peril' that prevails throughout the book. There always seems to be some danger or menace lurking at every corner but the author always manages to keep the story pleasant and upbeat. A bit like Indianna Jones or Pirates of The Caribbean. There may have been a few unnecessary bits here and there that didn't seem to be anything more than 'fillers' but I won't elaborate on them too much because they were few and far apart and didn't take much away from the overall enjoyment of the book. If you like a bit of upbeat, light hearted but page turning adventure, this book won't disappoint. I could also imagine it making a good movie.
August 3, 2019
In this well written and exciting historical novel, we go back in time to eighteenth century Paris when the city was on the cusp of revolution. Emotions run high and anyone with any connection to the aristocracy is viewed with a growing sense of outrage and suspicion.
Attica Morgan is a female spy working for the English, and what makes her so unusual is her clandestine involvement in a male dominated secret society known only as the Sealed Knot. Attica's femininity really sets her apart, and yet, her strong and decisive personality, and her ability to get right into the action, makes her more than a match for any man, and takes her into some very dangerous territory.
From the notorious Bastille, to unwanted meetings with Maximilien Robespierre, there is plenty of intrigue and more than a little danger, as Attica and her associate race against time in order to keep one step ahead of those who wish them harm. Attica is most certainly a woman to be reckoned with, she wields a knife with alarming accuracy, and her ability to mingle with the great, and the not so great of revolutionary Paris certainly shows her to be a courageous and intrepid heroine. There's also whole cast of supporting characters who add their own lively enthusiasm to what is, after all, a rollicking good historical adventure.
Attica Morgan is a female spy working for the English, and what makes her so unusual is her clandestine involvement in a male dominated secret society known only as the Sealed Knot. Attica's femininity really sets her apart, and yet, her strong and decisive personality, and her ability to get right into the action, makes her more than a match for any man, and takes her into some very dangerous territory.
From the notorious Bastille, to unwanted meetings with Maximilien Robespierre, there is plenty of intrigue and more than a little danger, as Attica and her associate race against time in order to keep one step ahead of those who wish them harm. Attica is most certainly a woman to be reckoned with, she wields a knife with alarming accuracy, and her ability to mingle with the great, and the not so great of revolutionary Paris certainly shows her to be a courageous and intrepid heroine. There's also whole cast of supporting characters who add their own lively enthusiasm to what is, after all, a rollicking good historical adventure.
January 11, 2020
I loved this book from the very first page. The basic story of the storming of the Bastille in Paris on July 14th 1789 is a familiar one to many people. The narrative woven round the main event could so easily have been boring. But C.S. Quinn weaves fact and fiction into a really exciting book.
Lady Attica Morgan is the daughter of an English nobleman and a slave. She is shunned by many people, but finds her niche in the grand scheme of things by working undercover as the only female spy in a secret society. Attica is deployed to France at a time of turmoil, where the aristocrats live the best lives and the poor starve or are imprisoned in the infamous Bastille.
Marie Antoinette, despised wife of Louis 16th, is ridiculed and the king does nothing to stop her behaviour, or to relieve the dire circumstances of his people. He hides in Versailles as revolution begins. Eventually the tide turns and the people storm the Bastille and Attica Morgan and her new friend, Jemmy, risk life and limb to save the prisoners, one of whom is Grace, Attica's cousin. Grace was sent to Paris with an expensive necklace belonging to Marie Antoinette. This becomes 'lost' as Attica and Grace escape the Bastille and flee to England and freedom.
Lady Attica Morgan is the daughter of an English nobleman and a slave. She is shunned by many people, but finds her niche in the grand scheme of things by working undercover as the only female spy in a secret society. Attica is deployed to France at a time of turmoil, where the aristocrats live the best lives and the poor starve or are imprisoned in the infamous Bastille.
Marie Antoinette, despised wife of Louis 16th, is ridiculed and the king does nothing to stop her behaviour, or to relieve the dire circumstances of his people. He hides in Versailles as revolution begins. Eventually the tide turns and the people storm the Bastille and Attica Morgan and her new friend, Jemmy, risk life and limb to save the prisoners, one of whom is Grace, Attica's cousin. Grace was sent to Paris with an expensive necklace belonging to Marie Antoinette. This becomes 'lost' as Attica and Grace escape the Bastille and flee to England and freedom.
August 1, 2019
This book starts at a furious pace, which continues the whole way through. Based around French history and the storming of The Bastille on 14th July, it interweaves exciting storytelling with some historical fact setting a fearsome pace that will keep the reader furiously turning the page.
The heroine of the tale is feisty Attica Morgan, illegitimate child of a lord and a slave. She's the perfect woman to be a British spy - she's experienced a difficult childhood before escaping into the gilded lifestyle of a lord's daughter. She can wield a knife with the best fighter but equally become "a lady" when required.
When her cousin Grace is sent to France, unknowingly carrying a priceless diamond necklace, and is captured and imprisoned in The Bastille it's up to Attica to save her. She just has to deal with an evil ex-musketeer, the scheming Robespierre and decide whether to trust the charming pirate Jemmy.
This book has a bit of everything - what may look on first glance as a bit of a "boy's own" tale is full of girl power and will have universal appeal. I raced through it in less than a day and can't wait for the next instalment!
The heroine of the tale is feisty Attica Morgan, illegitimate child of a lord and a slave. She's the perfect woman to be a British spy - she's experienced a difficult childhood before escaping into the gilded lifestyle of a lord's daughter. She can wield a knife with the best fighter but equally become "a lady" when required.
When her cousin Grace is sent to France, unknowingly carrying a priceless diamond necklace, and is captured and imprisoned in The Bastille it's up to Attica to save her. She just has to deal with an evil ex-musketeer, the scheming Robespierre and decide whether to trust the charming pirate Jemmy.
This book has a bit of everything - what may look on first glance as a bit of a "boy's own" tale is full of girl power and will have universal appeal. I raced through it in less than a day and can't wait for the next instalment!
August 12, 2019
I loved this.
Fast pace, action, a heroine who is an outcast, but manages to make the best of it, with a sharp tongue to match her sharp wit. However, she is little rash at times when it comes to making decisions - preferring to follow her heart and morals rather than her instructions. Which isn't always the best option for a spy. It makes for such a lovely dynamic with the other characters.
On top of that, the book is well researched, well written and just feels solid.
And the male lead, Jemmy, feels like a charming Jack Sparrow. The female lead, Attica, however steals the show.
One note about the writing. I really loved how all Attica's scene's were from first persona narrative, but all scenes that she wasn't in were third person. It was such a clear distinction, but made sure the reader never broke their 'bond' with Attica, even when they were seeing what was happening elsewhere. Furthermore, the reader is never told too much more than what Attica already knows (or is trying to figure out), preventing the "Ugh - I already know this, but SHE is taking CHAPTERS to figure this out"-frustration. Bravo!
Fast pace, action, a heroine who is an outcast, but manages to make the best of it, with a sharp tongue to match her sharp wit. However, she is little rash at times when it comes to making decisions - preferring to follow her heart and morals rather than her instructions. Which isn't always the best option for a spy. It makes for such a lovely dynamic with the other characters.
On top of that, the book is well researched, well written and just feels solid.
And the male lead, Jemmy, feels like a charming Jack Sparrow. The female lead, Attica, however steals the show.
One note about the writing. I really loved how all Attica's scene's were from first persona narrative, but all scenes that she wasn't in were third person. It was such a clear distinction, but made sure the reader never broke their 'bond' with Attica, even when they were seeing what was happening elsewhere. Furthermore, the reader is never told too much more than what Attica already knows (or is trying to figure out), preventing the "Ugh - I already know this, but SHE is taking CHAPTERS to figure this out"-frustration. Bravo!
September 8, 2019
So long story short, I loved this book. It's fun, fast paced, action packed, and generally a likeable style of writing too.
Our main character, Attica, is a joy to be with. Quinn does a fantastic job at making Attica likeable whilst still flawed. She let's Attica have emotional responses to events with is something I've found is recently lacking when "strong" female protagonists are involved. The side characters of Grace, Robespierre, Jemmy and the others are all well fleshed out, believable and not obnoxious in the way that they feel like real people.
I don't often read historical fiction, I've found that the author often gets too caught up in trying to teach you about the time period rather than telling you the story that is actually happening but Quinn manages to balance this quite well. There's a few moments where I feel I could use a slight bit more explanation even but I get enough knowledge to be able to understand the world the characters are set in and that's all I need.
All in all, I'm so glad that this ends with potential for a sequel because I definitely want to read more.
Our main character, Attica, is a joy to be with. Quinn does a fantastic job at making Attica likeable whilst still flawed. She let's Attica have emotional responses to events with is something I've found is recently lacking when "strong" female protagonists are involved. The side characters of Grace, Robespierre, Jemmy and the others are all well fleshed out, believable and not obnoxious in the way that they feel like real people.
I don't often read historical fiction, I've found that the author often gets too caught up in trying to teach you about the time period rather than telling you the story that is actually happening but Quinn manages to balance this quite well. There's a few moments where I feel I could use a slight bit more explanation even but I get enough knowledge to be able to understand the world the characters are set in and that's all I need.
All in all, I'm so glad that this ends with potential for a sequel because I definitely want to read more.
September 17, 2023
This took me a little while to get into, but once I did I could not stop reading. I have never read this genre before so it was new to me, but as a history lover I was naturally quite interested. I loved that the hero & protagonist was a woman, and not just that, but mixed race and bisexual as well. I thought those elements made it's historical setting even more fascinating. In particular I really liked how gender relationships were represented, it very clearly showed the inequality of the time and made it so satisfying as a female reader to see Attica capitalise on men underestimating her. The depiction of the dynamics in French society as well was also well done in my opinion. I thought that the characterisation of the other main characters was good and unique, and I found Jemmy to be very likeable (and I often struggle to like the male leads).
I do think the writing was quite shallow and repetitive at times, especially when Attica was reflecting on Atherton, Angelina, and her slave past, but other than that, I thought it was a very creative and engaging past.
I do think the writing was quite shallow and repetitive at times, especially when Attica was reflecting on Atherton, Angelina, and her slave past, but other than that, I thought it was a very creative and engaging past.
August 25, 2019
Let me first start by saying that this is not the usual genre of book that I would normally go for. I read the first impression and I was very intrigued by the plot and the character.
The character Attica Morgan is the illegitimate daughter of an English Aristocrat, who also doubles as a spy. This is set in the era of the French Revolution and includes the fall of the Bastille prison.
Attica was likable as a lead character and relatable.
This was a very fast paced book and had short chapters, which keep you gripped and wanting to read more. The book was adventurous and action packed and addictive. I am only giving this four stars as, like I said before, this is not my usual genre and I did feel that there was something missing that I just can't put my finger on, but that is just me. This is a fabulous read for historical fiction lovers who want to add a bit of action to their TBR.
The character Attica Morgan is the illegitimate daughter of an English Aristocrat, who also doubles as a spy. This is set in the era of the French Revolution and includes the fall of the Bastille prison.
Attica was likable as a lead character and relatable.
This was a very fast paced book and had short chapters, which keep you gripped and wanting to read more. The book was adventurous and action packed and addictive. I am only giving this four stars as, like I said before, this is not my usual genre and I did feel that there was something missing that I just can't put my finger on, but that is just me. This is a fabulous read for historical fiction lovers who want to add a bit of action to their TBR.
May 7, 2024
First off I was so lucky to have won this book in the first place, but I am so glad I did. After reading the preview I was already hooked and this was definitely something new for me. I've never been a fan of history books and mostly stayed away from them, but I do have a love for the Musketeers era; that fact and the cover definitely caught my eye. Once I began reading it in full I was immediately hooked.
The characters are all complex and honestly I was just transported into that world. I think it really helped that this book was historical fiction; the author was able to create fully formed characters that I loved seeing grow and change and interact with each other. This book was easy to read but still had wonderful language that kept me hooked along with the story. I'm so glad that there wasn't too much inaccuracy with the time it's set in, along with an actual historical figure being included.
The characters are all complex and honestly I was just transported into that world. I think it really helped that this book was historical fiction; the author was able to create fully formed characters that I loved seeing grow and change and interact with each other. This book was easy to read but still had wonderful language that kept me hooked along with the story. I'm so glad that there wasn't too much inaccuracy with the time it's set in, along with an actual historical figure being included.
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