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The Accidental Spy #3
A Daring Pursuit
To form a future, they must reconcile the past...
When Annabelle failed to stop the nation’s first presidential assassination, not only did the country plunge into chaos, but she’s mistaken for one of the conspirators. Imprisoned and berated while waiting for trial, she wants nothing more than to return to Rosswood Plantation. But in order to gain her freedom she must decide between trusting a man from her past or keeping her faith in the increasingly distant soldier she’s come to love.
Forced to choose between his allegiances and the safety of the people he loves, Matthew finds himself swept into the most massive manhunt in history. John Wilkes Booth has disappeared, and everything Matthew holds dear rests on finding the assassin. But to finally bring the conspirators to justice, Matthew must first conquer his own demons. Can he discover the power of redemptive love, or will his future with Annabelle be another casualty of war?
★ A Daring Pursuit is a 2020 rewrite of the previously published title Labeling Lincoln (The Liberator Series book three)
When Annabelle failed to stop the nation’s first presidential assassination, not only did the country plunge into chaos, but she’s mistaken for one of the conspirators. Imprisoned and berated while waiting for trial, she wants nothing more than to return to Rosswood Plantation. But in order to gain her freedom she must decide between trusting a man from her past or keeping her faith in the increasingly distant soldier she’s come to love.
Forced to choose between his allegiances and the safety of the people he loves, Matthew finds himself swept into the most massive manhunt in history. John Wilkes Booth has disappeared, and everything Matthew holds dear rests on finding the assassin. But to finally bring the conspirators to justice, Matthew must first conquer his own demons. Can he discover the power of redemptive love, or will his future with Annabelle be another casualty of war?
★ A Daring Pursuit is a 2020 rewrite of the previously published title Labeling Lincoln (The Liberator Series book three)
376 pages, Paperback
First published August 12, 2016
About the author
Stephenia H. McGee
32 books826 followersStephenia H. McGee is a multi-published author of stories of faith, hope, and healing set in the Deep South. She lives in Mississippi, where she is a mom of two rambunctious boys, writer, dreamer, and husband spoiler. Her novel The Cedar Key was a 2021 Faith, Hope, and Love Readers’ Choice award winner. A member of the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), she loves all things books and history. Stephenia also loves connecting with readers and can often be found having fun with her Faithful Readers Team on Facebook. For more on books and upcoming events and to connect with Stephenia, visit her at www.StepheniaMcGee.com.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 2, 2025
Great series
This was a great conclusion to the series & although I wanted it to keep going it was a wonderful story.
This was a great conclusion to the series & although I wanted it to keep going it was a wonderful story.
July 21, 2017
"Whatever tomorrow brings."
Annabelle Ross' tomorrows are full of uncertainty following the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Having fought so fervently to prevent this exact outcome, she is distressed beyond words when her eyewitness account lands her in prison, allowing the authorities much needed time to sort out truth from fiction. Her overriding fear is that her dear Matthew will be implicated, rather than absolved.
Matthew Daniels has found a way to prove his honor, by reluctantly pledging his allegiance to the new Union and offering his expertise while the entire country searches for one man, John Wilkes Booth. Leaving both his brother and beloved behind in Washington, he can only hope the delay is temporary. Dogged by his past, it seems that Matthew still has a few other battles to win before his heart can given to another.
Separated once again by circumstances beyond their control, Annabelle and Matthew must find a way to trust in the One who holds their future in His hands.
An absolutely engaging series, completed by this page turning conclusion!
Annabelle Ross' tomorrows are full of uncertainty following the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Having fought so fervently to prevent this exact outcome, she is distressed beyond words when her eyewitness account lands her in prison, allowing the authorities much needed time to sort out truth from fiction. Her overriding fear is that her dear Matthew will be implicated, rather than absolved.
Matthew Daniels has found a way to prove his honor, by reluctantly pledging his allegiance to the new Union and offering his expertise while the entire country searches for one man, John Wilkes Booth. Leaving both his brother and beloved behind in Washington, he can only hope the delay is temporary. Dogged by his past, it seems that Matthew still has a few other battles to win before his heart can given to another.
Separated once again by circumstances beyond their control, Annabelle and Matthew must find a way to trust in the One who holds their future in His hands.
An absolutely engaging series, completed by this page turning conclusion!
December 30, 2020
Stephenia McGee not only brings to life the aftermath of the assassination of President Lincoln through historical documents but through that of Annabelle Ross, Lily Rose, and the Daniels brothers in this third and final book of the Accidental Spy series.
This story further fleshes out the characters of the series, raising some in attitudes of people after the war of both the North and the South. The very serious social issues of race were addressed through personal conflict and relationships, exposing unjust prejudice and reconciliation.
Listening to an Audible production of the exciting events of John Wilkes Booth’s escape and confrontation with the Union soldiers and Matthew Daniels’ encounter with a crazed Confederate ex-comrade made time fly by.
If you are a historical fiction fan, I highly recommend reading these books since the plot is excellent and the events of the series were well researched. As an afterward in this book, Ms. McGee shares the source of the journal entries and newspaper accounts that she used. These were fascinating and you can read further details for yourself if you so choose since she shares where she found the information.
Thank you to the author for a free audible version of her book. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This story further fleshes out the characters of the series, raising some in attitudes of people after the war of both the North and the South. The very serious social issues of race were addressed through personal conflict and relationships, exposing unjust prejudice and reconciliation.
Listening to an Audible production of the exciting events of John Wilkes Booth’s escape and confrontation with the Union soldiers and Matthew Daniels’ encounter with a crazed Confederate ex-comrade made time fly by.
If you are a historical fiction fan, I highly recommend reading these books since the plot is excellent and the events of the series were well researched. As an afterward in this book, Ms. McGee shares the source of the journal entries and newspaper accounts that she used. These were fascinating and you can read further details for yourself if you so choose since she shares where she found the information.
Thank you to the author for a free audible version of her book. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 12, 2024
I listened to this book (and series) via audiobook as well as followed along by ebook and was thoroughly engrossed in the story and all of the supporting historical details. The narrator, Brynn Austin, did an excellent job bringing the story to life and making it a pleasure to listen to. While I am not a fan of cliffhanger stories, knowing up front that this was the equivalent of one long book spread out in a three book series made the difference in my expectations. You definitely have to read these books in order for them to make sense. It is clear the author did a tremendous amount of research on a very tumultuous time in U.S. history to bring these novels to life and the series is well worth the read! This last book had so many deeply moving moments as characters relied on their faith to bring about emotional and spiritual healing to themselves and others. Great series!
I received an ebook copy of this book from the author as part of a giveaway. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.
I received an ebook copy of this book from the author as part of a giveaway. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.
January 30, 2018
A worthy read
I just finished reading the last in the liberator series, almost lunch time! The romance between the Daniel brothers and their lady loves balanced the emotions of the aftermath of the Civil War. Ms McGee's balance with the actual history and her story telling is commendable and enjoyable as well as informative. I like learning unknown facts, such as the kidnap plot of Lincoln in book. #2. Stands to reason the war between the States would also have PTSD, all wars did, just different names. Reading about the symptoms is enlightening given our modern times.
Now I'm off to get something done before returning to the aftermath of the Civil War with Ginny Dyes latest book in the Brenagan series.
I just finished reading the last in the liberator series, almost lunch time! The romance between the Daniel brothers and their lady loves balanced the emotions of the aftermath of the Civil War. Ms McGee's balance with the actual history and her story telling is commendable and enjoyable as well as informative. I like learning unknown facts, such as the kidnap plot of Lincoln in book. #2. Stands to reason the war between the States would also have PTSD, all wars did, just different names. Reading about the symptoms is enlightening given our modern times.
Now I'm off to get something done before returning to the aftermath of the Civil War with Ginny Dyes latest book in the Brenagan series.
February 18, 2020
A very satisfying conclusion to the series. Not only do the characters grow and change, they do it with the help of a higher power. So many times, God is left out or put into the background of the truth that fictional characters tell. There have been many historical romance series where characters persevere through their strong determination and will to love each other. This series adds a depth by admitting to and reveling in the divine help that Christian romance and marriage relies on to survive in a world torn by sin and death. It's uplifting, brave, and more truthful than I would have believed possible. Great job.
August 1, 2022
What an amazing story of conspiracy and lies and danger and healing too. This concludes the three-book story of Annebelle and Matthew and their journey from Mississippi to Washington and New York and then back to Mississippi and the hardships and trials and journey along the way.
This is well written and mixes enough fact with fiction to make it so interesting to me. I loved getting the real history of what happened during this time as well as getting these characters mixed into the story to make them seem real. I loved it and highly recommend it but make sure you have read the first two books before you begin this one as it is a trilogy and each book continues to this one.
This is well written and mixes enough fact with fiction to make it so interesting to me. I loved getting the real history of what happened during this time as well as getting these characters mixed into the story to make them seem real. I loved it and highly recommend it but make sure you have read the first two books before you begin this one as it is a trilogy and each book continues to this one.
May 13, 2026
Christian Historical Romance
This third audiobook was fascinating! A look into the people involved in the assassination of President Lincoln was eye opening!!! I had previously read books in the viewpoint of Mrs. Lincoln's black seamstress, and a couple of women who became combat nurses for the North! I now have a much better understanding of the different struggles and even healing that came from the Cival War!! The emotions is this book are so realistic to me! The PTSD the men struggled with, a Southern woman's abolitionist ideals. And the plight of the children who are products of both the slave women and the white plantation owners. Just brilliantly written and expertly performed!ǰ
This third audiobook was fascinating! A look into the people involved in the assassination of President Lincoln was eye opening!!! I had previously read books in the viewpoint of Mrs. Lincoln's black seamstress, and a couple of women who became combat nurses for the North! I now have a much better understanding of the different struggles and even healing that came from the Cival War!! The emotions is this book are so realistic to me! The PTSD the men struggled with, a Southern woman's abolitionist ideals. And the plight of the children who are products of both the slave women and the white plantation owners. Just brilliantly written and expertly performed!ǰ
February 18, 2022
Action packed, seat gripper
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire series! I just wished there was one with a story for Peggy to find her lost love, i loved that woman! The only thing i say was when Matthew and the rebs were at the barn capturing the guy, Matthew saw O'Malley in the woods and he shot himself, but later in the story O'Malley attacked Matthew on the train?? Haven't figured that one out yet. Overall a well written believable story. A wonderful series. I highly recommend it.
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire series! I just wished there was one with a story for Peggy to find her lost love, i loved that woman! The only thing i say was when Matthew and the rebs were at the barn capturing the guy, Matthew saw O'Malley in the woods and he shot himself, but later in the story O'Malley attacked Matthew on the train?? Haven't figured that one out yet. Overall a well written believable story. A wonderful series. I highly recommend it.
December 17, 2019
LR
Interesting with the historical facts written in. This book was not as easy to follow for me an I felt like it lingered too long. However I love the way McGee writes and the Christian aspects of each story.
Interesting with the historical facts written in. This book was not as easy to follow for me an I felt like it lingered too long. However I love the way McGee writes and the Christian aspects of each story.
January 8, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed the exploits of Annabelle and Matthew. A well woven tale of intrigue during the latter time of the the Civil War and its aftermath in this trilogy. I love history and enjoyably learned a lot.
August 31, 2023
This last book of the trilogy is wonderful!! It has enough twists and turns to keep you turning the pages until you fall asleep because you can't keep your eyes open any longer. I love the ending and the beautiful beginnings it promises!!!
April 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this series. It through in just enough history (I’m not a history buff) and the story line was great! I’d definitely recommend the series. I’ll just add it was the first Stephenia H McGee books I’ve read. I’m going to go find more.
August 7, 2017
Wonderful finish
This final book in the series was wonderful reading.
I love happy endings and this one was especially good. Thank you to the author!!
This final book in the series was wonderful reading.
I love happy endings and this one was especially good. Thank you to the author!!
December 9, 2018
Fantastic
I have waited probably a year to read this book. This trilogy didn't disappoint. It was a very beautiful ending and worth the wait.
I have waited probably a year to read this book. This trilogy didn't disappoint. It was a very beautiful ending and worth the wait.
May 3, 2020
Heartfelt Love Story!
This story of history, true Love times 2, suspense, and determination to do the right thing. This story kept me turning page after page. Great read!
This story of history, true Love times 2, suspense, and determination to do the right thing. This story kept me turning page after page. Great read!
November 1, 2020
I've really enjoyed Stephenia's books.....need to get more!
March 25, 2021
As always, the author wrote a riveting story.
I listened to the audio of this and absolutely loved it! The narrator did a great job.
I listened to the audio of this and absolutely loved it! The narrator did a great job.
May 18, 2021
An enjoyable series!
The first book was a little hard to get into, but once I got into this series, I didn't want to put my tablet down.
The first book was a little hard to get into, but once I got into this series, I didn't want to put my tablet down.
Read
September 6, 2023Audiobook
April 8, 2026
historical fiction romance
March 3, 2017
Very fitting book to close an amazing series!
EVERY book in this series seemed to be increasingly better! The characters were so realistic and personable, and the events so well researched. All 3 books were a relaxing review of the events I'm sure I learned in history class (but have long since forgotten). Thank you Stephenia for such an amazing series.
EVERY book in this series seemed to be increasingly better! The characters were so realistic and personable, and the events so well researched. All 3 books were a relaxing review of the events I'm sure I learned in history class (but have long since forgotten). Thank you Stephenia for such an amazing series.
December 29, 2025
Conclusion of the accidental spy series, post Civil War, following Lincoln's assassination, mostly set in Mississippi.
In this episode, Matthew has finally been released from his duty as witness in Lincoln’s assassination trial. But his trip to be reunited with Annabelle was fraught with many difficulties. Not being able to afford a train ticket to Mississippi, Matthew had to walk or find rides taking weeks.
Meanwhile, at Annabel's homesite in Mississippi, her uncle Michael, and Matthew‘s brother George were looking out for her, even in the midst of soldiers who claimed the right to take up residence there. But weeks of waiting for Matthew created doubts wondering if he had changed his mind since she had heard nothing.
George on the other hand, who had been in love with Lily, regretted his reaction to her informing him her mother had been a slave.
The story was good, albeit a bit eye-rolly melodramatic at times. The narrator (Bryan Austin) was good but read in a halting fashion throughout the book, and also melodramatic. I wasn’t as in enamored with this last book as the previous two.
An encouraging addition to the book was the faith arc. Lives were changed and God was glorified.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 rounded up.
In this episode, Matthew has finally been released from his duty as witness in Lincoln’s assassination trial. But his trip to be reunited with Annabelle was fraught with many difficulties. Not being able to afford a train ticket to Mississippi, Matthew had to walk or find rides taking weeks.
Meanwhile, at Annabel's homesite in Mississippi, her uncle Michael, and Matthew‘s brother George were looking out for her, even in the midst of soldiers who claimed the right to take up residence there. But weeks of waiting for Matthew created doubts wondering if he had changed his mind since she had heard nothing.
George on the other hand, who had been in love with Lily, regretted his reaction to her informing him her mother had been a slave.
The story was good, albeit a bit eye-rolly melodramatic at times. The narrator (Bryan Austin) was good but read in a halting fashion throughout the book, and also melodramatic. I wasn’t as in enamored with this last book as the previous two.
An encouraging addition to the book was the faith arc. Lives were changed and God was glorified.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 rounded up.
September 6, 2016
The aftermath of Lincoln's assassination and reconstruction
This is the last book in the series of The Liberator Books. It was a very climatic and satisfying end to the series. It was more than I anticipated with Annabelle and Matthew's story. Including his brother and Lilly. I loved how everyone was seen as one - not just black and white. We all have issues that God needs to heal within us but we need to allow Him to do the healing.
This is the last book in the series of The Liberator Books. It was a very climatic and satisfying end to the series. It was more than I anticipated with Annabelle and Matthew's story. Including his brother and Lilly. I loved how everyone was seen as one - not just black and white. We all have issues that God needs to heal within us but we need to allow Him to do the healing.
May 19, 2026
Outstanding is the only word to describe the Accidental Spy trilogy. All 3 books take the era of the War Between the States out of a boring history lesson into an event involving real people you come to know who have been thrown into the maelstrom of history. A Daring Pursuit puts a lot into focus, the capture of John Wilkes Booth, the destruction of the South and the agony of survivors who cling to hope that a new dawn will come.
September 12, 2016
Good reading.
I enjoyed reading this series of stories. I felt that the PTST that the hero's went through was very simplified for these stories.
I enjoyed reading this series of stories. I felt that the PTST that the hero's went through was very simplified for these stories.
December 25, 2024
This is by far the best in the series. The other ones were about 4.5 stars. This one had so much more history, but also a super entertaining plot.
Audiobook
Audiobook
April 15, 2017
Very good ending. I enjoyed a bit of history of the Lincoln assassination.
I enjoyed this entire series on Preside t Lincoln and John W Booth. Just enough fiction and facts to hold my interest.
I enjoyed this entire series on Preside t Lincoln and John W Booth. Just enough fiction and facts to hold my interest.
April 22, 2017
Labeling Lincoln is the final book in The Liberator trilogy
by Stephenia H. McGee
This Christian historical fiction book continues the stories of
Annabelle, Peggy, Matthew, George, Grandmother, Lily,
and the fate of the conspirators in the Lincoln assassination.
Except for the last scene with O'Malley, the characters and plot were realistic ...
that scene just pushed a little too far for my taste.
The men thought their greatest battle of survival was surviving the war ...
but they soon realized that wasn't quite true:
facing the ghosts of their pasts within themselves and finding love
would be the greatest challenges of all.
Meanwhile, the women must come to terms with their position in an old-yet-new world
as they return to the South and home.
"Many fought for changes, and many fought for things to stay as they were.
I fear that nothing will come easy anymore.
Whatever we want out of the days ahead, we will have to work for them."
She turned her gaze back to George.
"What future are YOU willing to fight for?"
Annabelle and George
found in Chapter 31
"But if folks don't start trying to make things change,"
Peggy continued, her eyes not leaving her peas,
"and is not brave enough to fight through the hate,
then how's things ever going to be different?"
found in Chapter 31
This has been one of the very few series I have ever read back-to-back.
I look forward to reading other books by Stephenia!
by Stephenia H. McGee
This Christian historical fiction book continues the stories of
Annabelle, Peggy, Matthew, George, Grandmother, Lily,
and the fate of the conspirators in the Lincoln assassination.
Except for the last scene with O'Malley, the characters and plot were realistic ...
that scene just pushed a little too far for my taste.
The men thought their greatest battle of survival was surviving the war ...
but they soon realized that wasn't quite true:
facing the ghosts of their pasts within themselves and finding love
would be the greatest challenges of all.
Meanwhile, the women must come to terms with their position in an old-yet-new world
as they return to the South and home.
"Many fought for changes, and many fought for things to stay as they were.
I fear that nothing will come easy anymore.
Whatever we want out of the days ahead, we will have to work for them."
She turned her gaze back to George.
"What future are YOU willing to fight for?"
Annabelle and George
found in Chapter 31
"But if folks don't start trying to make things change,"
Peggy continued, her eyes not leaving her peas,
"and is not brave enough to fight through the hate,
then how's things ever going to be different?"
found in Chapter 31
This has been one of the very few series I have ever read back-to-back.
I look forward to reading other books by Stephenia!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews