What do you think?
Rate this book
Secret Agent
Rogue agent Zoey Blackwood is having the time of her life traveling the world and evading the CIA’s capture. Her wisecracking humor keeps things light, but her mission is no save millions of innocent lives that the US considers expendable in the wake of a deadly virus. Giving away the vaccine’s top-secret formula when the government plans to sell it lands her squarely on the CIA’s most-wanted list.
CIA Agent Peyton North’s mission is apprehend Zoey and return her to headquarters. Peyton gives chase, ready to do whatever it takes to catch her. But every time she thinks she has Zoey cornered, the smart-ass agent pulls off another clever escape.
Sparks ignite between them during their cat-and-mouse trek around the globe. A bond is forged and loyalties are tested as their sizzling attraction approaches a point of no return.
CIA Agent Peyton North’s mission is apprehend Zoey and return her to headquarters. Peyton gives chase, ready to do whatever it takes to catch her. But every time she thinks she has Zoey cornered, the smart-ass agent pulls off another clever escape.
Sparks ignite between them during their cat-and-mouse trek around the globe. A bond is forged and loyalties are tested as their sizzling attraction approaches a point of no return.
242 pages, Paperback
Published April 12, 2022
27 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Larkin
9 books141 followersMichelle’s an author of lesbian romantic thrillers, a long-distance runner with no sense of direction, and a nunchuck-wielding sidekick to a pair of superhero sons.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 20, 2024
A Golden Crown winner.
Agent Zoey Blackwood has become a persona non grata to the CIA and DOD. Zoey, meanwhile, is on a secret mission to save millions of lives. A deadly contagion which will be released soon has Zoey distributing the coveted vaccine formula to countries around the world. There are those high up in the United State’s government who want to stop Zoey and keep the vaccine for themselves and a tidy profit. Her handler Peyton North is assigned to locate, apprehend and bring Zoey into headquarters. The DOD want her shot on sight.
Ms Larkin has found just the right balance of humour, intrigue and romance in her fifth novel, Secret Agent. There are many laugh out loud moments interspersed with the gravity of the plot. Witty dialogue abounds driving the story and the romance.
The attraction between Zoey and Peyton is palatable despite their completely opposite personalities. The romance of the Paris nightclub scene is one of the most touching that I have read. It is romance in its purest form.
I have been waiting for this creation from slightly off the ledge of the mind of Ms Larkin and she has out done herself. Secret Agent is a must read. How could you deny yourself something this good? and funny? and romantic?
I received an advance review copy from Bold Stroke Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Agent Zoey Blackwood has become a persona non grata to the CIA and DOD. Zoey, meanwhile, is on a secret mission to save millions of lives. A deadly contagion which will be released soon has Zoey distributing the coveted vaccine formula to countries around the world. There are those high up in the United State’s government who want to stop Zoey and keep the vaccine for themselves and a tidy profit. Her handler Peyton North is assigned to locate, apprehend and bring Zoey into headquarters. The DOD want her shot on sight.
Ms Larkin has found just the right balance of humour, intrigue and romance in her fifth novel, Secret Agent. There are many laugh out loud moments interspersed with the gravity of the plot. Witty dialogue abounds driving the story and the romance.
The attraction between Zoey and Peyton is palatable despite their completely opposite personalities. The romance of the Paris nightclub scene is one of the most touching that I have read. It is romance in its purest form.
I have been waiting for this creation from slightly off the ledge of the mind of Ms Larkin and she has out done herself. Secret Agent is a must read. How could you deny yourself something this good? and funny? and romantic?
I received an advance review copy from Bold Stroke Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 23, 2022
This was such an amusing read. I had such a great time that I really want to check out Michelle Larkin’s back catalogue.
“Secret Agent” by Larkin is an action romance with a bit of a thriller/intrigue aspect thrown in as well. It’s also very funny with a lot of humor and comedic situations. There was a good balance of the light comedy feel but also the seriousness of Zoey’s situation with the corrupt government.
Zoey Blackwood is a CIA agent and Peyton North is her newish handler. The two are forced to get to know one another by the CIA’s psychologist. Not long after, Zoey goes on the run from her government when she learns of a plan to withhold the vaccine to a virus that can wipe out much of the world’s population. Peyton, being her handler, is tasked with finding her and bringing her back.
Zoey and Peyton, while both very successful in their careers as agents, are complete opposites of one another. I loved how they got to know one another and how they responded to their differences. They took such care for the other and had a lot of respect for their differences, even when they didn’t fully understand them. I feel like we don’t see a lot of that in romance so it was a nice surprise and made me love the romance aspect that much more.
I want to say while the blurb isn’t misleading exactly, it doesn’t tell the whole story. The blurb is part of it yes, but a bigger part of the book is them getting to know one another before the big chase. And I’m so glad Larkin wrote it that way, otherwise I wouldn’t have understood a lot of their choices.
My only complaint is that it wasn’t long enough! The ending, while wasn't abrupt, it felt rushed and I wish there would've been more to it. Also, I would love to read more about Zoey and Peyton and how they work together now that they actually know one another. So fingers crossed for a sequel.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“Secret Agent” by Larkin is an action romance with a bit of a thriller/intrigue aspect thrown in as well. It’s also very funny with a lot of humor and comedic situations. There was a good balance of the light comedy feel but also the seriousness of Zoey’s situation with the corrupt government.
Zoey Blackwood is a CIA agent and Peyton North is her newish handler. The two are forced to get to know one another by the CIA’s psychologist. Not long after, Zoey goes on the run from her government when she learns of a plan to withhold the vaccine to a virus that can wipe out much of the world’s population. Peyton, being her handler, is tasked with finding her and bringing her back.
Zoey and Peyton, while both very successful in their careers as agents, are complete opposites of one another. I loved how they got to know one another and how they responded to their differences. They took such care for the other and had a lot of respect for their differences, even when they didn’t fully understand them. I feel like we don’t see a lot of that in romance so it was a nice surprise and made me love the romance aspect that much more.
I want to say while the blurb isn’t misleading exactly, it doesn’t tell the whole story. The blurb is part of it yes, but a bigger part of the book is them getting to know one another before the big chase. And I’m so glad Larkin wrote it that way, otherwise I wouldn’t have understood a lot of their choices.
My only complaint is that it wasn’t long enough! The ending, while wasn't abrupt, it felt rushed and I wish there would've been more to it. Also, I would love to read more about Zoey and Peyton and how they work together now that they actually know one another. So fingers crossed for a sequel.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2022
4.5 stars. This was one of the funniest books I’ve read in a long time! Who knew that I’ve been missing out on feejays all my live. For those of you who are clueless like me, they are pajama bottoms with feet, yes, I googled them, they do exist. This is only the second book by Larkin that I’ve read so far (the first being Sylver and Gold), but I need to check the back catalogue for more.
The world is in danger and CIA agent Zoey is going to prevent billions of people to die, but to do this she has to go rogue. Peyton, Zoey’s handler, is tasked to bring Zoey in. Their personalities could not be more different and the dialogues between Zoey and Peyton are extremely funny giving them an awesome dynamic together and even with all their quips there is also a deeper and more vulnerable layer to their personalities.
This book should not be taken too seriously, both the action/thriller part and the characters are over the top and I loved every second of it. While saving the world they play this cat and mouse game and also the rather unusual side characters really add to the story.
I only have one minor comment on the book, which is the reason to subtract half a star, and that’s the ending. I was enjoying this book so much, but starting at ~80% both the action storyline and the romance felt rushed towards an ending. But I’m rounding it up to 5 stars anyway because of sheer entertainment value.
Humor in books is always difficult, I often don’t find it funny, but this book was exactly up my alley. Zoey is hilarious, but without Peyton and the way they interact it would never have been that good. Can I have another book with them? I absolutely recommend this book!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The world is in danger and CIA agent Zoey is going to prevent billions of people to die, but to do this she has to go rogue. Peyton, Zoey’s handler, is tasked to bring Zoey in. Their personalities could not be more different and the dialogues between Zoey and Peyton are extremely funny giving them an awesome dynamic together and even with all their quips there is also a deeper and more vulnerable layer to their personalities.
This book should not be taken too seriously, both the action/thriller part and the characters are over the top and I loved every second of it. While saving the world they play this cat and mouse game and also the rather unusual side characters really add to the story.
I only have one minor comment on the book, which is the reason to subtract half a star, and that’s the ending. I was enjoying this book so much, but starting at ~80% both the action storyline and the romance felt rushed towards an ending. But I’m rounding it up to 5 stars anyway because of sheer entertainment value.
Humor in books is always difficult, I often don’t find it funny, but this book was exactly up my alley. Zoey is hilarious, but without Peyton and the way they interact it would never have been that good. Can I have another book with them? I absolutely recommend this book!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2022
I love Michelle Larkin books, they are full of wit, with heart-pounding action and intense emotion. This was no different. I've enjoyed all of her previous works, and I do believe her stuff is on a 'must read' list for me.
I enjoyed this story of Zoey a secret agent with a difficult past and an intriguing backstory to discover. She's difficult but incredibly suave and funny. Peyton, her newly appointed handler is the polar opposite. Quite straight-laced and serious, but lacking something in her safe life.
The blurb really doesn't do this story justice, and infact is only a small portion toward the end of what it is really about. I enjoyed the over-arching conspiracy and the web of people willing to step up to help, and their loyalty and connections. The deep emotions portrayed.
My one complaint was it felt rushed toward the end, and then easily done with and anti-climatic. I felt we were building up to so much more, and wanting that bit more to really round out things nicely, and meet back up with all the players and have a proper reflection on all that happened. Especially in the aftermath of the conspiracy. That was sorely lacking, to me. So that's why 4 stars and not 5, as I would otherwise rate this.
I enjoyed this story of Zoey a secret agent with a difficult past and an intriguing backstory to discover. She's difficult but incredibly suave and funny. Peyton, her newly appointed handler is the polar opposite. Quite straight-laced and serious, but lacking something in her safe life.
The blurb really doesn't do this story justice, and infact is only a small portion toward the end of what it is really about. I enjoyed the over-arching conspiracy and the web of people willing to step up to help, and their loyalty and connections. The deep emotions portrayed.
My one complaint was it felt rushed toward the end, and then easily done with and anti-climatic. I felt we were building up to so much more, and wanting that bit more to really round out things nicely, and meet back up with all the players and have a proper reflection on all that happened. Especially in the aftermath of the conspiracy. That was sorely lacking, to me. So that's why 4 stars and not 5, as I would otherwise rate this.
March 23, 2022
I loved everything about this book. Michelle Larkin has a knack for writing romantic intrigue novels. She adds humanity to her characters by giving them enough wit, charm and deep seated goodness that you can’t help but fall in love with them and cheer on their successes.
The blurb for Secret Agent is misleading as its focus is on the espionage angle of the story. I found myself pulled into this opposites attract romance which begins to bubble long before these women are sent on their desperate race around the planet. Zoey and Peyton are CIA agents and they do get tangled up in a plot involving a deadly virus and some despicable men bent on keeping the vaccine formula secret from the rest of the world for profit and political power. It’s a big deal and the thriller, danger, violence (minor torture scene NOT involving Zoey or Peyton) fan in me enjoyed the adrenalin rush. What I enjoyed more was getting to know Zoey and Peyton, their quirks, cleverness, kindness and their sorrows. These women. I fell in love with them both and knew they would find some way to save the world and find their HEA.
I chose to read this book because I am a fan of thrillers with sapphic leads. Instead I found myself swept up in the romance between these two formidable women and loved every minute of the read. This one hits my favourites of 2022 list.
A copy of this book was received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
The blurb for Secret Agent is misleading as its focus is on the espionage angle of the story. I found myself pulled into this opposites attract romance which begins to bubble long before these women are sent on their desperate race around the planet. Zoey and Peyton are CIA agents and they do get tangled up in a plot involving a deadly virus and some despicable men bent on keeping the vaccine formula secret from the rest of the world for profit and political power. It’s a big deal and the thriller, danger, violence (minor torture scene NOT involving Zoey or Peyton) fan in me enjoyed the adrenalin rush. What I enjoyed more was getting to know Zoey and Peyton, their quirks, cleverness, kindness and their sorrows. These women. I fell in love with them both and knew they would find some way to save the world and find their HEA.
I chose to read this book because I am a fan of thrillers with sapphic leads. Instead I found myself swept up in the romance between these two formidable women and loved every minute of the read. This one hits my favourites of 2022 list.
A copy of this book was received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
April 2, 2022
Secret Agent by Michelle Larkin, narrated by Keira Grace
Michelle Larkin is one of the most underrated writers in lesfic. Maybe because she doesn’t write traditional romance and she doesn’t stick to a single genre either, her books go under the radar for many people. Personally, since I’ve read Sylver and Gold, I’m happy to go against the popular choice.
Rogue CIA Agent Zoey Blackwood has a clear mission: try to save the lives of foreigners considered expendable by greedy US politicians in the wake of a deadly virus. CIA Agent Peyton North’s orders are clear: capture Zoey and bring her back to the US. But as a sizzling attraction between them develops, Peyton’s loyalties are tested.
This is an action-packed, opposites-attract, romantic intrigue novel. It’s not strictly enemies to lovers, but there is an antagonism between the mains which perfectly lays the groundwork for witty banter and smart dialogues. Humour is extremely important in this book, not the slapstick kind but the more refined, sarcastic and intelligent variety. Humor plays a big role for Zoey as it’s her way to cope with all the curveballs that life threw at her. It also depicts the rest of the characters really well in how they react toward Zoey’s irreverent sense of humor. Most especially Peyton as she is normally on the receiving end of Zoey snarky remarks:
“I’m gay,” Zoey blurted.
Peyton narrowed her eyes. “That’s not listed anywhere in your file.”
“Well, I am. Happy to prove it to you.” She raised an eyebrow, giving Peyton a once-over. “If you’re game.”
As I said before, Ms. Larkin has written in different genres: crime, paranormal, urban fantasy, and here in Secret Agent, intrigue. However, there’s always an undercurrent of romance in her books – at least in the ones I’ve read – which reminds me of Gerri Hill’s mysteries in the strength of the chemistry and its importance in the plot. Romance plays an essential role in Ms. Larkin’s stories and the chemistry between the mains is sizzling hot.
Kudos to Ms. Larkin for writing about a deadly virus and the politicians’ dirty ways of handling the crisis in the aftermath of a global pandemic that did exactly that. You have to praise the author for having the courage to tackle that issue and make it similar enough so that readers can relate and sufficiently different so that it doesn’t give you anxiety. Not many authors can pull that, especially since many of them suffered from writer’s block during the pandemic.
I’ve listened to the audiobook version narrated by Keira Grace who also narrated Sylver and Gold (which I highly recommend). The narrator did a very good job with the different characters’ voices and delivering witty remarks and snarky dialogues. If you are looking for a story with action, intrigue, and romance in equal parts, don’t miss this. 5 stars.
Length: 8 hours, 49 minutes
Michelle Larkin is one of the most underrated writers in lesfic. Maybe because she doesn’t write traditional romance and she doesn’t stick to a single genre either, her books go under the radar for many people. Personally, since I’ve read Sylver and Gold, I’m happy to go against the popular choice.
Rogue CIA Agent Zoey Blackwood has a clear mission: try to save the lives of foreigners considered expendable by greedy US politicians in the wake of a deadly virus. CIA Agent Peyton North’s orders are clear: capture Zoey and bring her back to the US. But as a sizzling attraction between them develops, Peyton’s loyalties are tested.
This is an action-packed, opposites-attract, romantic intrigue novel. It’s not strictly enemies to lovers, but there is an antagonism between the mains which perfectly lays the groundwork for witty banter and smart dialogues. Humour is extremely important in this book, not the slapstick kind but the more refined, sarcastic and intelligent variety. Humor plays a big role for Zoey as it’s her way to cope with all the curveballs that life threw at her. It also depicts the rest of the characters really well in how they react toward Zoey’s irreverent sense of humor. Most especially Peyton as she is normally on the receiving end of Zoey snarky remarks:
“I’m gay,” Zoey blurted.
Peyton narrowed her eyes. “That’s not listed anywhere in your file.”
“Well, I am. Happy to prove it to you.” She raised an eyebrow, giving Peyton a once-over. “If you’re game.”
As I said before, Ms. Larkin has written in different genres: crime, paranormal, urban fantasy, and here in Secret Agent, intrigue. However, there’s always an undercurrent of romance in her books – at least in the ones I’ve read – which reminds me of Gerri Hill’s mysteries in the strength of the chemistry and its importance in the plot. Romance plays an essential role in Ms. Larkin’s stories and the chemistry between the mains is sizzling hot.
Kudos to Ms. Larkin for writing about a deadly virus and the politicians’ dirty ways of handling the crisis in the aftermath of a global pandemic that did exactly that. You have to praise the author for having the courage to tackle that issue and make it similar enough so that readers can relate and sufficiently different so that it doesn’t give you anxiety. Not many authors can pull that, especially since many of them suffered from writer’s block during the pandemic.
I’ve listened to the audiobook version narrated by Keira Grace who also narrated Sylver and Gold (which I highly recommend). The narrator did a very good job with the different characters’ voices and delivering witty remarks and snarky dialogues. If you are looking for a story with action, intrigue, and romance in equal parts, don’t miss this. 5 stars.
Length: 8 hours, 49 minutes
April 12, 2022
One government is set on releasing a deadly virus and another government is keen on hoarding the vaccine formula to sell to other countries. Agent Zoey Blackwood goes rogue in an attempt to share this formula with as many countries as she can even if it puts a target on her back. Enter, Peyton North, her handler. Tasked with finding Zoey in her escapades Peyton can't help but feel Zoey lurking in more than just the shadows... maybe her heart?
I liked this book, it was pretty funny and had an interesting plot. With likeable characters who just meshed well together, all in the sentiments "Opposites attract". I thought it was done nicely but that last chapter kind of annoyed me. It was way too short. I feel like we only touched the surface of how good a couple of those two could be together.
Otherwise, loved the book, loved their chemistry but most of all, loved the comedy. A lot of books are missing that comedy factor these days and the author made it such a natural part of the book. Just what I love, comedy that is natural, smooth and not dependent on one character embarrassing themselves.
So yes, I do recommend it!
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in return for an honest review.
I liked this book, it was pretty funny and had an interesting plot. With likeable characters who just meshed well together, all in the sentiments "Opposites attract". I thought it was done nicely but that last chapter kind of annoyed me. It was way too short. I feel like we only touched the surface of how good a couple of those two could be together.
Otherwise, loved the book, loved their chemistry but most of all, loved the comedy. A lot of books are missing that comedy factor these days and the author made it such a natural part of the book. Just what I love, comedy that is natural, smooth and not dependent on one character embarrassing themselves.
So yes, I do recommend it!
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in return for an honest review.
April 4, 2022
What an amazing book!! This is my second Michelle Larkin book and I enjoyed it a lot. I probably would’ve given it 5*, but I listened to the audiobook instead of reading it myself and something about the way the narrator narrated the story sounded a bit robotic, but I got used to it eventually, but it was very weird at first 😅 And I wish the ending was a bit more conclusive and clear, so to speak.
But overall, I really enjoyed the story, most of the characters and the romance 🥰
But overall, I really enjoyed the story, most of the characters and the romance 🥰
April 1, 2022
I loved Secret Agent by Michelle Larkin. Never read anything by her before so I went in blind. It was a lot of fun even though the subject (a potentionally world ending event) was anything but. The focus is mostly on the mutual attraction between CIA agent Zoey Blackwood and her handler Peyton North, so if you are hoping for that you are in the right spot because they have oodles of chemistry! I recommend!
f/f
Themes: feejays and potato chips
4.5 Stars
f/f
Themes: feejays and potato chips
4.5 Stars
March 24, 2022
Michelle Larkin writes great crime stories with strong female characters and combines that with some wit and charm.
In this book Zoey is the definite star, seems like a bit of a loose canon but that couldn’t be further from who she actually is. She is witty and caring and has undying love for feejays. Which I need now as well by the way! Zoey is hard to read and chases away all her handlers, until Peyton. Peyton is highly competitive and uptight. They get on each other’s nerves but make a great team, they can read each other. Peyton reluctantly lets Zoey in, well sort of. All the secrecy about Zoey’s unsanctioned mission. I won’t go into this mission as it is better to read it yourself.
Minor issue, the I love you, I could have done without it. Totally unnecessary to have it there ontheven story and the epilogue is also a little meh.
I’ve come to learn that you can trust Larkin to write a compelling crime story and some strong and fun characters to solve all the world’s problems. I see an opening for a series here and I wouldn’t mind reading more stories with Zoey and Peyton.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
In this book Zoey is the definite star, seems like a bit of a loose canon but that couldn’t be further from who she actually is. She is witty and caring and has undying love for feejays. Which I need now as well by the way! Zoey is hard to read and chases away all her handlers, until Peyton. Peyton is highly competitive and uptight. They get on each other’s nerves but make a great team, they can read each other. Peyton reluctantly lets Zoey in, well sort of. All the secrecy about Zoey’s unsanctioned mission. I won’t go into this mission as it is better to read it yourself.
Minor issue, the I love you, I could have done without it. Totally unnecessary to have it there ontheven story and the epilogue is also a little meh.
I’ve come to learn that you can trust Larkin to write a compelling crime story and some strong and fun characters to solve all the world’s problems. I see an opening for a series here and I wouldn’t mind reading more stories with Zoey and Peyton.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
April 15, 2022
Holy s*** balls! This book had me gripped from the first page! Not many books can do that too me, and I read it in one sitting. You'll find the characters have banter and you’ll laugh along with them. The story is a romance with a sprinkle of thriller mixed in. I really did enjoy this story.
I'm hoping this might be the start of a series. :)
I've given ‘secret agent’ by Michelle Larkin a 5/5
P.s. I apologise for the ‘swears’ in this review. But it's a bloody good read!
I'm hoping this might be the start of a series. :)
I've given ‘secret agent’ by Michelle Larkin a 5/5
P.s. I apologise for the ‘swears’ in this review. But it's a bloody good read!
January 8, 2023
Secret Agent is a strange mashup of a rom-com and the “24” tv show. I loved the connection between the two mains, Zoey, a CIA operative and her handler, Peyton. Chemistry, banter, and sexy times do not get any better. 10/10. But all of that heat shares the screen with a bizarre plot by the USA government to basically obliterate bipoc Americans and the rest of the world with a lethal virus. There are also some crazy moments of offscreen torture and violence. I’m split because the romance part is stellar but I am not a fan of the intrigue part. To me the two pieces do not fit together and it made me uncomfortable to read certain passages even though the violence is only hinted at and not graphically described in real time. Also, the idea of tainted vaccines. Ugh. Lots of people loved this book and gave it many stars so take a look around because this is just my impression. 3.50 stars rounded up for the romance.
June 16, 2022
4 stars
This was good. Way less serious than the summary implied. More like a spy comedy with occasional heavy topics.
But I enjoyed it.
I'm just not sure whether Zoey is a comedic genius or a deranged menace to the society with a weird sense of humour. But it entertained me to read about her hijinks.
This was good. Way less serious than the summary implied. More like a spy comedy with occasional heavy topics.
But I enjoyed it.
I'm just not sure whether Zoey is a comedic genius or a deranged menace to the society with a weird sense of humour. But it entertained me to read about her hijinks.
May 18, 2022
I loved it. This has got to be one of my favourite reads this year thus far. I hope there's more to come for the North-Blackwood family, along with Sacha, Mere and Shadow. I love these people.
Side Bar: Michelle Larkin got me onto the Inspiration album by Florian Christl which I have on repeat right now. What a bonus!
Side Bar: Michelle Larkin got me onto the Inspiration album by Florian Christl which I have on repeat right now. What a bonus!
May 29, 2022
4.3 rounded up
This was a really different read.
Fun. Good chemistry and so witty dialogs between characters !
Good read!
This was a really different read.
Fun. Good chemistry and so witty dialogs between characters !
Good read!
March 24, 2022
This book is very entertaining. It has smart-alecky CIA agent Zoey and her straitlaced handler, Peyton. Zoey's previous handler, her adoptive father, has recently retired and she is having trouble working with new people. There is the back story of the US government planning to release a deadly virus in order to profit from the sale of the vaccine. Zoey is then forced to go rogue in order to help save the world. At first, this gave me pause about picking up the book. Do I really want to read about a deadly virus in the middle of a pandemic? But reading the book, I find myself wishing that there's more of the secret agent thing through the book. The mission became more of an incidental thing. We are told about it being dealt with without the details given. But, I do understand that this mainly focuses on the two main characters and how their relationship develops. The book would have to be double the length it is if the author also goes into the day by day of Zoey going about the mission. Saying that, overall this is a fun, enjoyable read.
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!**
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!**
August 16, 2022
FEEJAYS!
I laughed, I cried, it moved me, Bob. More of this please :)
I laughed, I cried, it moved me, Bob. More of this please :)
January 6, 2023
I never really felt a connection with this story, or the characters. Enjoyable enough, but didn't make me want to gobble it up in a day and keep reading.
May 20, 2022
Rusted ending
April 10, 2022
Larkin has penned a pure winner with this book. Many LOL moments of hilarious dialogue and situations between rogue CIA agent Zoey and her new uptight and very serious handler, Payton. They antagonize each other throughout the story and end up completely smitten with each other. And there is a crime story that feels like a slight twist on our real world pandemic. It’s good that we have super hero Zoey and her friends to save the world.
Read this one, you will be entertained!
ARC received for a voluntary and honest review.
Read this one, you will be entertained!
ARC received for a voluntary and honest review.
September 9, 2022
Not bad not bad, this had intrigue and wit layered throughout. You gotta suspend all reality and expect a lot of eye rolls, but it was still fun, even though it deals with pandemic-y themed things which I'm sure all of us are tired of. MC Zoey has had some doozies of cases, but her attention to detail and big kind heart made her extremely likeable. MC Peyton was hard for me to warm to throughout much of the book, I'm unsure why she made it as a handler because frankly, she sucks at it. It lost a point for the very rushed ending and some plot holes that didn't fit very well together, but otherwise a good read!
August 2, 2022
Borderline crazy, but put on your safety belt, hard hat and suspend any normal beliefs and - like me - really enjoy the ride. Recommended.
June 1, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
March 23, 2022
This is the second book I’ve read by Michelle Larkin and I will have to download some of her past books because this was just as good as Sylver and Gold. I loved the CIA spy angle and the political backstory was intriguing if a little too close to home with the deadly virus scenario. I really like Zoey, she was always 10 steps ahead thinking of every possible scenario while still trying to get to know Peyton. I liked Peyton as well but she wasn’t quite as entertaining as Zoey. The book draws you in from the first page during Zoey’s annual psych review with Dr. Pokale. Everything is very fast paced but also still gives enough background on the MCs to feel like they are truly getting to know each other. From the description I was a little concerned the two MCs wouldn’t be with each other enough to make a romance seem believable but that wasn’t an issue for me. The side characters were great and would have loved to see a bit more of Dr. Pokale. Overall a very entertaining read!
August 16, 2023
Well written. I really enjoyed the snappy, clever (but not too clever) dialog, and the intriguing plot. I was drawn-in from the beginning, and stayed up until the wee hours enjoying the story. The rapid and off-page resolution to a central issue was somewhat disappointing, which is why I've given only 4 stars.
Trigger warnings for torture are necessary. It's disturbing, although mostly off-page.
Trigger warnings for torture are necessary. It's disturbing, although mostly off-page.
June 11, 2022
A delightfully entertaining spy novel. Zoey is a highly trained CIA agent. Her adopted father is retired from the agency but gives her a last mission. A new virus is about to be unleashed on the world but higher government people are planning to withhold the vaccine. They plan on giving it only to the people they choose or the countries that pay enough. Zoey needs to go rogue to help save the world. Zoey’s new handler is Peyton. Peyton is smart and by the book.
This is very much an opposites attract trope. Zoey is a snarky free spirit in her “Feejays” and has a heart of gold. The story works for me because both Peyton and Zoey are highly trained and skilled at their jobs. There are laugh out loud moments and fun quirkiness. I would have given it five stars but I felt let down by the ending. It is unclear whether the virus is ever released or what happens to other leaders involved in the plot. Are Peyton and Zoey still with the CIA? Also as much as I like Peyton and Zoey’s romance the fact that Peyton has been a widow only a few months pushes into my icky range. The blurb itself is a little misleading as the first part of the story shows the two getting to know each other better before the adventure begins.
A fun spy story that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The characters are likable with a good mix of adventure and romance. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is very much an opposites attract trope. Zoey is a snarky free spirit in her “Feejays” and has a heart of gold. The story works for me because both Peyton and Zoey are highly trained and skilled at their jobs. There are laugh out loud moments and fun quirkiness. I would have given it five stars but I felt let down by the ending. It is unclear whether the virus is ever released or what happens to other leaders involved in the plot. Are Peyton and Zoey still with the CIA? Also as much as I like Peyton and Zoey’s romance the fact that Peyton has been a widow only a few months pushes into my icky range. The blurb itself is a little misleading as the first part of the story shows the two getting to know each other better before the adventure begins.
A fun spy story that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The characters are likable with a good mix of adventure and romance. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2022
This book appealed to me from the very beginning. Our main character Zoey was just so much fun to follow, her humour was top tier. I often felt as though she resembled a sitcom character in the way she acted, just a really entertaining protagonist to follow (not to mention she's a total badass!). The relationship between her and her mentor Sterling was so touching, definitely my favourite relationship established in this book. I also enjoyed Peyton's character and the way she deals with her past.
As much fun as this was, I, unfortunately, think it went downhill near the end. For a hot minute, I thought this was going to be part of a larger series as things didn't feel as though they were nearing a conclusion. Instead, I got a rushed ending that didn't satisfy me. The rapid POV changes were jarring and things were just going too fast for me to actually feel entranced in the world anymore.
Nevertheless, I still had a really good time with this book.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for NetGalley
As much fun as this was, I, unfortunately, think it went downhill near the end. For a hot minute, I thought this was going to be part of a larger series as things didn't feel as though they were nearing a conclusion. Instead, I got a rushed ending that didn't satisfy me. The rapid POV changes were jarring and things were just going too fast for me to actually feel entranced in the world anymore.
Nevertheless, I still had a really good time with this book.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for NetGalley
March 30, 2022
I love Michelle Larkin. Just love her. I will read everything she writes and I am certain I will love it. I’m always hoping she will write a series, but so far no luck. She makes me laugh every time with her hard core dad jokes and never disappoints.
Ok, so Secret Agent. Of course, I loved it. It was high action with a healthy dose of humor. The main characters have great chemistry, the supporting characters were fearless and witty, and the bad guys were easy to hate. Everyone was just badass!
The one thing I would adjust would be to build onto the love story just a little more. Like I said, there was chemistry, I only wanted a little more build up and together time between the main characters. Also, I have questions. There are a few “but what happened to…” moments that I would have liked to see wrapped up in a pretty ribbon. BUT, it didn’t take away from the overall story. It was a definite win in my book.
Ok, so Secret Agent. Of course, I loved it. It was high action with a healthy dose of humor. The main characters have great chemistry, the supporting characters were fearless and witty, and the bad guys were easy to hate. Everyone was just badass!
The one thing I would adjust would be to build onto the love story just a little more. Like I said, there was chemistry, I only wanted a little more build up and together time between the main characters. Also, I have questions. There are a few “but what happened to…” moments that I would have liked to see wrapped up in a pretty ribbon. BUT, it didn’t take away from the overall story. It was a definite win in my book.
May 1, 2022
Secret Agent was a fun book to listen to, and a perfect introduction to Michelle Larkin as an author for me.
Zoey, is a CIA agent and Peyton is her new handler. They both try to keep their distance emotionally, but are unable to keep it strictly professional after getting to know one another through a bunch of banter, movies and practical jokes.
Intrigue, suspense and romance kept the book flowing, and the pages turning. Larkin created two strong willed, independent MC's who share chemestry that seeped through their words and actions. I tend to favour characters in a book, but both Zoey and Peyton charmed me in their own ways.
I wasn't 100% sold on the narration (but I admit, I am fussy🤷♀️) so I think my preference would be to read the book next time. I definitely recommend checking it out though
Zoey, is a CIA agent and Peyton is her new handler. They both try to keep their distance emotionally, but are unable to keep it strictly professional after getting to know one another through a bunch of banter, movies and practical jokes.
Intrigue, suspense and romance kept the book flowing, and the pages turning. Larkin created two strong willed, independent MC's who share chemestry that seeped through their words and actions. I tend to favour characters in a book, but both Zoey and Peyton charmed me in their own ways.
I wasn't 100% sold on the narration (but I admit, I am fussy🤷♀️) so I think my preference would be to read the book next time. I definitely recommend checking it out though
March 21, 2022
I loved the book. It was amazing and fun read.
The characters in the book have depth and meaning the plot went on smoothly I didn't felt like there was a break in the plot. Some punch lines were also great. The book was like it kept me hooked at every page. I didn't felt like I was losing interest in the story.
Words are not forming in my head to describe this book it was awesome. I would be disappointed if the book is not adapted into the movie version. I would definitely like to watch the movie also or better a web series based on the story.
Only thing which I didn't like was the epilogue was short, I wanted to more about how the things went down in CIA office, what happened to president and the inner circle, what was the reception of world on the plot of America and how the things went for the Shadow and its gang.
I would definitely recommend this book to others when published.
The characters in the book have depth and meaning the plot went on smoothly I didn't felt like there was a break in the plot. Some punch lines were also great. The book was like it kept me hooked at every page. I didn't felt like I was losing interest in the story.
Words are not forming in my head to describe this book it was awesome. I would be disappointed if the book is not adapted into the movie version. I would definitely like to watch the movie also or better a web series based on the story.
Only thing which I didn't like was the epilogue was short, I wanted to more about how the things went down in CIA office, what happened to president and the inner circle, what was the reception of world on the plot of America and how the things went for the Shadow and its gang.
I would definitely recommend this book to others when published.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews