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Electra McDonnell #2
The Key to Deceit
The second in the Electra McDonnell series from Edgar-nominated author Ashley Weaver, The Key to Deceit, is a delightful World War II mystery filled with spies, murder, romance, and wit.
London, 1940. After years of stealing from the rich and giving to the poor—well, to themselves, anyway—Ellie McDonnell and her family have turned over a new leaf as they help the government’s war effort. It’s true that the straight-laced Major Ramsey didn’t give them much choice, but still, Ellie must admit she doesn’t miss breaking and entering as much as she might have thought. What she does miss is the challenge of unlocking an impossible code and the adrenaline rush that comes from being somewhere she shouldn’t.
So when Major Ramsey turns up unannounced with another job, she can’t say no. A woman’s body has been found floating in the Thames, with a bracelet locked onto her wrist, and a cameo locket attached to it. It’s clear this woman was involved in espionage, but whose side was she on? Who was she reporting to? And who wanted her dead?
London, 1940. After years of stealing from the rich and giving to the poor—well, to themselves, anyway—Ellie McDonnell and her family have turned over a new leaf as they help the government’s war effort. It’s true that the straight-laced Major Ramsey didn’t give them much choice, but still, Ellie must admit she doesn’t miss breaking and entering as much as she might have thought. What she does miss is the challenge of unlocking an impossible code and the adrenaline rush that comes from being somewhere she shouldn’t.
So when Major Ramsey turns up unannounced with another job, she can’t say no. A woman’s body has been found floating in the Thames, with a bracelet locked onto her wrist, and a cameo locket attached to it. It’s clear this woman was involved in espionage, but whose side was she on? Who was she reporting to? And who wanted her dead?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2022
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May 2, 2022
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
Who can discreetly spy on the spies?
Ashley Weaver presents her second edition of the Electra McDonnell Series. It's August of 1940 in London during World War II with the fear of potential bombings arriving at their doorsteps. Londoners live with impending danger around every corner.
Major Ramsey of the Intelligence Service contacts Ellie McDonnell to assist him on another case. They worked successfully in A Peculiar Combination. Ellie and her family are crafty locksmiths who have used their unusual talents on the other side of the law in the past. But they've turned over a new leaf and are using their wits for the government during war time.
A woman's body has been found floating in the Thames. She's wearing an unusual cameo bracelet around her wrist that has a strange lock attached. Ramsey knows that Ellie can open even the most difficult of locks. It's a trip to the morgue where Ellie also notices how refined the woman had been dressed. She clicks open the bracelet lock and discovers a small camera inside. It appears that this woman may have been caught up in espionage.
What starts out as a crackin' good spy novel quickly hits the dirt with a thud. Ashley Weaver did a smacking good job with the first book, A Peculiar Combination. I was doubting that this book was written by the same author. Weaver brings in a heavy layer of a love triangle that overshadows all and everything. Instead of danger and mayhem aplenty in the opening scenes, we get Ellie mooning over Ramsey and breathing heavily over her new boyfriend, Felix. And this goes on throughout the book. Enough.....way more than enough.
The Key to Deceit had so much potential in the beginning stages. There's a heap of good avenues here: dead bodies, hidden cameras, the Blitzkrieg, German/British spies. And each only received a light dusting and then seemed to be scrambled together at the end. The bank scene was more of a diversion as well. A high interest storyline was given over to hearts and flowers.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Minotaur Books and to Ashley Weaver for the opportunity.
Who can discreetly spy on the spies?
Ashley Weaver presents her second edition of the Electra McDonnell Series. It's August of 1940 in London during World War II with the fear of potential bombings arriving at their doorsteps. Londoners live with impending danger around every corner.
Major Ramsey of the Intelligence Service contacts Ellie McDonnell to assist him on another case. They worked successfully in A Peculiar Combination. Ellie and her family are crafty locksmiths who have used their unusual talents on the other side of the law in the past. But they've turned over a new leaf and are using their wits for the government during war time.
A woman's body has been found floating in the Thames. She's wearing an unusual cameo bracelet around her wrist that has a strange lock attached. Ramsey knows that Ellie can open even the most difficult of locks. It's a trip to the morgue where Ellie also notices how refined the woman had been dressed. She clicks open the bracelet lock and discovers a small camera inside. It appears that this woman may have been caught up in espionage.
What starts out as a crackin' good spy novel quickly hits the dirt with a thud. Ashley Weaver did a smacking good job with the first book, A Peculiar Combination. I was doubting that this book was written by the same author. Weaver brings in a heavy layer of a love triangle that overshadows all and everything. Instead of danger and mayhem aplenty in the opening scenes, we get Ellie mooning over Ramsey and breathing heavily over her new boyfriend, Felix. And this goes on throughout the book. Enough.....way more than enough.
The Key to Deceit had so much potential in the beginning stages. There's a heap of good avenues here: dead bodies, hidden cameras, the Blitzkrieg, German/British spies. And each only received a light dusting and then seemed to be scrambled together at the end. The bank scene was more of a diversion as well. A high interest storyline was given over to hearts and flowers.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Minotaur Books and to Ashley Weaver for the opportunity.
May 17, 2022
I read a LOT of historical mysteries, but tend to prefer mysteries set in the middle ages and renaissance. The Key to Deceit, set during World War II, is an exception to that generalization. The Key to Deceit is the second volume in Ashley Weaver's Electra McDonnell series. I haven't read the first Electra McDonnell, but that didn't interfere at all with my enjoyment of this title. Weaver tucks in bits of backstory that fit seamlessly into her narrative, rather than seeming like the heavy handed detours that backstory can become.
(Digression: seriously, shouldn't there be an award for series mystery authors who can work in backstory without leaving you feeling that you've been bludgeoned with it?)
The backstory here is that Ellie (Electra) and her uncle work together as safe crackers—also as legitimate locksmiths, you can see the overlap. Apparently in book 1, the two of them were given a choice by an intelligence officer, Major Ramsey: they could join the war effort and not be prosecuted for a crime or.... Well, they're patriotic, if not always on the right side of the law, so you know what choice they made.
The case this time around focuses on an unknown woman whose body washes up along the Thames. She carries no ID and wears an unusual bracelet held in place with a lock. That's where Ellie comes in. Once Ellie has picked the lock on the bracelet, even more questions are raised. And then there's the little bag of loose gems that also holds a key for winding a clock. With that beginning, Ellie, Major Ramsey, and Ellie's uncle quickly find themselves hunting down a German spy ring.
Part of what's fun about this series is that, while Major Ramsey is a no-nonsense military man, Ellie and her uncle—and the criminal "colleagues" they pull into the investigation—are definitely ready to break the rules and have fun doing it. This crew includes jewelers who specialize in "paste" copies of heirloom jewelry, sellers of goods of dubious provenance, a safe-cracking colleague who prefers to do things the quick way using explosives, and Ellie's beau (maybe? maybe not?) who has a knack for forgery.
The Key to Deceit is an absolutely perfect summer read: lively, funny, and well-plotted. Of course, those characteristics are equally delightful in a book in fall, winter, and spring, so regardless of the season in which you're reading this review, I urge you to track down The Key to Deceit and to keep an eye out for Ashley Weaver's next volume in this delightful series.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
(Digression: seriously, shouldn't there be an award for series mystery authors who can work in backstory without leaving you feeling that you've been bludgeoned with it?)
The backstory here is that Ellie (Electra) and her uncle work together as safe crackers—also as legitimate locksmiths, you can see the overlap. Apparently in book 1, the two of them were given a choice by an intelligence officer, Major Ramsey: they could join the war effort and not be prosecuted for a crime or.... Well, they're patriotic, if not always on the right side of the law, so you know what choice they made.
The case this time around focuses on an unknown woman whose body washes up along the Thames. She carries no ID and wears an unusual bracelet held in place with a lock. That's where Ellie comes in. Once Ellie has picked the lock on the bracelet, even more questions are raised. And then there's the little bag of loose gems that also holds a key for winding a clock. With that beginning, Ellie, Major Ramsey, and Ellie's uncle quickly find themselves hunting down a German spy ring.
Part of what's fun about this series is that, while Major Ramsey is a no-nonsense military man, Ellie and her uncle—and the criminal "colleagues" they pull into the investigation—are definitely ready to break the rules and have fun doing it. This crew includes jewelers who specialize in "paste" copies of heirloom jewelry, sellers of goods of dubious provenance, a safe-cracking colleague who prefers to do things the quick way using explosives, and Ellie's beau (maybe? maybe not?) who has a knack for forgery.
The Key to Deceit is an absolutely perfect summer read: lively, funny, and well-plotted. Of course, those characteristics are equally delightful in a book in fall, winter, and spring, so regardless of the season in which you're reading this review, I urge you to track down The Key to Deceit and to keep an eye out for Ashley Weaver's next volume in this delightful series.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
March 6, 2022
I received an ARC of The Key to Deceit (Electra McDonnell, #2) from Minotaur Books in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for a honest review. The Key to Deceit by Ashley Weaver was the second book in the Electra McDonnell series. It was not necessary to have read the first book before reading this one because it stood well as a stand alone book. I chose, though, to listen to the audiobook of A Peculiar Combination (Electra McDonnell #1) before I sat down to write this review. It filled in some of the gaps that I wasn’t completely in procession of but If I had not listened to book 1 in this new series it would not have hampered my enjoyment of The Key to Deceit.
.
I loved the colorful and vivid characters in The Key to Deceit. If you love, as I do, strong, clever, feisty and determined female characters, then you will adore Electra McDonnell, or Ellie as she liked to be called. The character of Major Ramsey was perhaps the exact opposite from Ellie. He was a no nonsense type of man who rarely smiled. Major Ramsey was a rule following intelligence officer who loved and supported his country with his whole heart. Ellie never minded breaking or bending the rules if she got the desired outcome. She would not stand to be treated differently than her male counterparts either. Ellie gave up her career of illegal safe cracking to help the British government and Major Ramsey defeat the Nazis. Major Ramsey not only gained Ellie’s expertise but that of her Uncle Mick and other family members, close friends and acquaintances.
The Key to Deceit took place in London in 1940, shortly before the beginning of The Blitz. Major Ramsey showed up at Ellie’s home and asked for help in a new case. A dead woman had been discovered in the Thames and she was wearing a very unusual bracelet and cameo locket. Major Ramsey required Ellie’s services to open the lock on the bracelet. He was hoping there might be pertinent information within the bracelet that would help Major Ramsey determine if this woman had been a spy for the Germans and what she was doing for them if she was. Ellie was not exactly keen about dislodging a bracelet from a corpse but if it provided important information for the Major she would do it. Ellie missed the excitement and danger from their first mission. It had been several weeks since she and Major Ramsey had successfully completed their first mission and she had been forced to doing boring locksmith jobs for her Uncle Mick. Major Ramsey was confident that the dead woman was a spy. Was she spying for England or Germany? They had to find that out and figure out who wanted her dead and why. Ellie was also determined to solve a more personal mystery. With the support of Felix, a lifetime friend and possible boyfriend, Ellie was trying to prove her mother’s innocence.
The Key to Deceit by Ashley Weaver was a gripping historical spy novel with a touch of romance. Ashley Weaver expertly combined suspense with twists in this fast paced novel. She included accurate historical details and flowing dialogue. I really enjoyed the first two books in the Electra McDonnell series and look forward to reading the next book in this new series. I highly recommend this book.
.
I loved the colorful and vivid characters in The Key to Deceit. If you love, as I do, strong, clever, feisty and determined female characters, then you will adore Electra McDonnell, or Ellie as she liked to be called. The character of Major Ramsey was perhaps the exact opposite from Ellie. He was a no nonsense type of man who rarely smiled. Major Ramsey was a rule following intelligence officer who loved and supported his country with his whole heart. Ellie never minded breaking or bending the rules if she got the desired outcome. She would not stand to be treated differently than her male counterparts either. Ellie gave up her career of illegal safe cracking to help the British government and Major Ramsey defeat the Nazis. Major Ramsey not only gained Ellie’s expertise but that of her Uncle Mick and other family members, close friends and acquaintances.
The Key to Deceit took place in London in 1940, shortly before the beginning of The Blitz. Major Ramsey showed up at Ellie’s home and asked for help in a new case. A dead woman had been discovered in the Thames and she was wearing a very unusual bracelet and cameo locket. Major Ramsey required Ellie’s services to open the lock on the bracelet. He was hoping there might be pertinent information within the bracelet that would help Major Ramsey determine if this woman had been a spy for the Germans and what she was doing for them if she was. Ellie was not exactly keen about dislodging a bracelet from a corpse but if it provided important information for the Major she would do it. Ellie missed the excitement and danger from their first mission. It had been several weeks since she and Major Ramsey had successfully completed their first mission and she had been forced to doing boring locksmith jobs for her Uncle Mick. Major Ramsey was confident that the dead woman was a spy. Was she spying for England or Germany? They had to find that out and figure out who wanted her dead and why. Ellie was also determined to solve a more personal mystery. With the support of Felix, a lifetime friend and possible boyfriend, Ellie was trying to prove her mother’s innocence.
The Key to Deceit by Ashley Weaver was a gripping historical spy novel with a touch of romance. Ashley Weaver expertly combined suspense with twists in this fast paced novel. She included accurate historical details and flowing dialogue. I really enjoyed the first two books in the Electra McDonnell series and look forward to reading the next book in this new series. I highly recommend this book.
February 13, 2025
I had a lot of fun reading this one, I especially liked how roguish the cast of characters are compared to most other cozy mysteries. And I know that a lot of people don't like this trope, but I thought it was fun how there’s also a hint of a love triangle. I mean, “hint” being the operative word here because it’s pretty obvious who’s the endgame couple. Of course, that never stopped me from rooting for the other guy before (#teamotherguy). Anyways, I’m sure it’s been said a hundred times, so let me be the 101st person to say that Ashley Weaver is a fantastic writer.
March 4, 2022
This is the second installment of the Ellie McDonnell espionage series set in England during World War Two. I was very excited to receive this book and moved it to the top of my reading list. Unfortunately my excitement did not last that long for this book. It is rather simple and lacks some of the qualities that I so enjoyed in the first book. There's a lot of championing of England and patriotism, which is all well and good, but sometimes it gets to be a bit much.
Now, this has an interesting plot in that out of the blue Ellie is approached by Major Ramsey to help him remove a bracelet from the wrist of a young lady who was found dead in the Thames River. It was a rather simple bracelet to remove, and yet attached to the bracelet is a locket which also needs to be opened. Again this is not a hard task and it makes you wonder why major Ramsey really needed Ellie to be with him to open this. Nonetheless it turns out that within the locket was a small camera which contained film that had photos of sensitive areas in and around London. It becomes obvious that the dead woman was a spy. Now we have to find out who was the woman, who is in the spy network and to do this we bring in her uncle Mick, as well as her friend and possible love interest Felix Lacey.
A lot of this book is easy to figure out, and I just found the writing not up to the quality of the first book of the series, and the plot was rather obvious. Now, there have been many books written about World War Two, and many of the espionage novels have already covered much of the same ground. This series is different because Ellie and her family were professional thieves, which was a very unique twist that was introduced into this series. But by the 2nd book everyone becomes legitimate and some of the fun is gone. Ellie is torn between her growing relationship with Felix, and yet everybody seems to want Ellie to end up with Major Ramsey. We also get more information as to Ellie’s mother who had been convicted of killing her father and a lot of the back story into that situation. To be honest I don't need that. Major Ramsey makes a very good observation about that very subject and I think he hits the nail on the head.
But we have spies, spy rings, the beginning of the bombing of London, breaking into a bank vault and a lot of other action which helps move the story along. Unfortunately for me it just didn't do enough, I had a feeling that the author was rushing this book to press after the success of her first book. It's a good read, but it's not a great read and that to me was a disappointment. I still think the series has a lot of potential but the author must whittle down her cast of characters to make things a little more believable. While not a major fan of this book I do look forward to her next installment in this series.
Now, this has an interesting plot in that out of the blue Ellie is approached by Major Ramsey to help him remove a bracelet from the wrist of a young lady who was found dead in the Thames River. It was a rather simple bracelet to remove, and yet attached to the bracelet is a locket which also needs to be opened. Again this is not a hard task and it makes you wonder why major Ramsey really needed Ellie to be with him to open this. Nonetheless it turns out that within the locket was a small camera which contained film that had photos of sensitive areas in and around London. It becomes obvious that the dead woman was a spy. Now we have to find out who was the woman, who is in the spy network and to do this we bring in her uncle Mick, as well as her friend and possible love interest Felix Lacey.
A lot of this book is easy to figure out, and I just found the writing not up to the quality of the first book of the series, and the plot was rather obvious. Now, there have been many books written about World War Two, and many of the espionage novels have already covered much of the same ground. This series is different because Ellie and her family were professional thieves, which was a very unique twist that was introduced into this series. But by the 2nd book everyone becomes legitimate and some of the fun is gone. Ellie is torn between her growing relationship with Felix, and yet everybody seems to want Ellie to end up with Major Ramsey. We also get more information as to Ellie’s mother who had been convicted of killing her father and a lot of the back story into that situation. To be honest I don't need that. Major Ramsey makes a very good observation about that very subject and I think he hits the nail on the head.
But we have spies, spy rings, the beginning of the bombing of London, breaking into a bank vault and a lot of other action which helps move the story along. Unfortunately for me it just didn't do enough, I had a feeling that the author was rushing this book to press after the success of her first book. It's a good read, but it's not a great read and that to me was a disappointment. I still think the series has a lot of potential but the author must whittle down her cast of characters to make things a little more believable. While not a major fan of this book I do look forward to her next installment in this series.
July 15, 2022
Not to sound like a broken record, but I must echo the other reviews. The second half let me down.
The start actually felt quite promising. I felt like Weaver finally found her stride with Electra McDonnell. I started to enjoy Ellie as a character on her own, not just a substandard alternative to Amory Ames.
BUT THEN THE STUPID LOVE TRIANGLE SHOWED UP AGAIN.
And seriously, the love triangle is the guiding force of this book. Not the dead body with the weird bracelet. Not the imminent air attack from Germany. Not the 24-year-old cold case she's investigating on the side. Not even the cast of shady, underworld characters needed to save the day.
No, the real drama is whether she should make-out with the forger she's known forever or give into the feelings she has around the major.
Now, obviously I have Opinions. (I was actively rooting for Felix's immanent death which probably makes me a terrible person but also, would have spared so much angst.) But I would have happily disposed of even the major for a chance to be spared the whiplash of dealing with the love triangle.
I also couldn't stand how morally good all the characters were. (Unless, of course, they are Bad Guys. In which case, they are Very Bad. Or at least Anarchists.) Ellie might think longingly back on her life of crime, but she feels so much better about herself as a person now that she's not thieving. The shady underworld of London might look askance at the police, but will happily Do Their Part for king and country if it means catching spies. And just in general, there is very little gray or nuance. Good Guys are Good even if they do bad things occasionally. And Bad Guys are Bad and usually pretty creepy while they are at it.
There were a few scenes I genuinely enjoyed and I suspect in the future I will remember enjoying this book much more than I actually did. But from the rushed climax to the irritating romantic angst, I can't say this book flowed particularly well.
The start actually felt quite promising. I felt like Weaver finally found her stride with Electra McDonnell. I started to enjoy Ellie as a character on her own, not just a substandard alternative to Amory Ames.
BUT THEN THE STUPID LOVE TRIANGLE SHOWED UP AGAIN.
And seriously, the love triangle is the guiding force of this book. Not the dead body with the weird bracelet. Not the imminent air attack from Germany. Not the 24-year-old cold case she's investigating on the side. Not even the cast of shady, underworld characters needed to save the day.
No, the real drama is whether she should make-out with the forger she's known forever or give into the feelings she has around the major.
Now, obviously I have Opinions. (I was actively rooting for Felix's immanent death which probably makes me a terrible person but also, would have spared so much angst.) But I would have happily disposed of even the major for a chance to be spared the whiplash of dealing with the love triangle.
I also couldn't stand how morally good all the characters were. (Unless, of course, they are Bad Guys. In which case, they are Very Bad. Or at least Anarchists.) Ellie might think longingly back on her life of crime, but she feels so much better about herself as a person now that she's not thieving. The shady underworld of London might look askance at the police, but will happily Do Their Part for king and country if it means catching spies. And just in general, there is very little gray or nuance. Good Guys are Good even if they do bad things occasionally. And Bad Guys are Bad and usually pretty creepy while they are at it.
There were a few scenes I genuinely enjoyed and I suspect in the future I will remember enjoying this book much more than I actually did. But from the rushed climax to the irritating romantic angst, I can't say this book flowed particularly well.
May 1, 2025
I am loving this series set in 1940 London. There is a great group of characters, especially the FMC and MMC. A group of Londoners are trying to comprehend German sympathizers and spies during wartime. We see action, danger, and undercover roles to find answers and the bad people. The narrator, Alison Larkin, does a wonderful job. I borrowed the audio book from the local library via Libby.
June 9, 2022
The Key to Deceit by Ashley Weaver
This second installment in the Electra McDonnell series definitely lives up to promise of the first book. Electra, or “Ellie” as she like to be called, along with her uncle were recruited by British military intelligence in the first book of the series. They were asked to use their less than legal safecracking/lock-smith abilities to help England fight the Germans in WWII London.
This time around, the body of a young woman is fished out of the Thames. The handsome, but aloof Major Ramsey needs Ellie to remove an unusual bracelet from the woman's wrist. The bracelet hides a camera and some gem stones, and soon Ellie and Ramsey are drawn into the investigation of a German spy ring. The major must rely on Ellie and some of her less than legitimate contacts to gather the information he needs before military secrets are spirited out of the country to the enemy. Despite the opinions of the men around her, Ellie refuses to be left behind in the investigation because of her sex. Felix Lacey, Ellie’s childhood friend, is also becomes involved in the race to catch the German spies. Although Ellie is attracted to Felix, she can’t help but feel a certain sexual tension between herself and Ramsey.
The story is face-paced; thrilling with some humor thrown in; and has just a touch of romance to keep you longing for the next installment. Ellie is a resourceful, gutsy and smart heroine who knows what she wants and refuses to let anything or anyone stand in the way of her getting it. The writer does an excellent job of evoking WWII London at the start of the Blitzkrieg, and readers sense the fear and uncertainty that the British experienced at the start of the war with Germany. A shady antiques dealer, an effervescent lockpicker (who prefers the use of explosives), and other secondary characters pepper the story; creating light and humorous moments. This novel could be read on its own, but I recommend going back to read the first book to get more of a sense of some of the characters and background on the romantic triangle between Ellie, Ramsey and Felix. This is a great choice for lovers of historical fiction, historical mysteries, spy stories and anyone who enjoys strong female characters.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
This second installment in the Electra McDonnell series definitely lives up to promise of the first book. Electra, or “Ellie” as she like to be called, along with her uncle were recruited by British military intelligence in the first book of the series. They were asked to use their less than legal safecracking/lock-smith abilities to help England fight the Germans in WWII London.
This time around, the body of a young woman is fished out of the Thames. The handsome, but aloof Major Ramsey needs Ellie to remove an unusual bracelet from the woman's wrist. The bracelet hides a camera and some gem stones, and soon Ellie and Ramsey are drawn into the investigation of a German spy ring. The major must rely on Ellie and some of her less than legitimate contacts to gather the information he needs before military secrets are spirited out of the country to the enemy. Despite the opinions of the men around her, Ellie refuses to be left behind in the investigation because of her sex. Felix Lacey, Ellie’s childhood friend, is also becomes involved in the race to catch the German spies. Although Ellie is attracted to Felix, she can’t help but feel a certain sexual tension between herself and Ramsey.
The story is face-paced; thrilling with some humor thrown in; and has just a touch of romance to keep you longing for the next installment. Ellie is a resourceful, gutsy and smart heroine who knows what she wants and refuses to let anything or anyone stand in the way of her getting it. The writer does an excellent job of evoking WWII London at the start of the Blitzkrieg, and readers sense the fear and uncertainty that the British experienced at the start of the war with Germany. A shady antiques dealer, an effervescent lockpicker (who prefers the use of explosives), and other secondary characters pepper the story; creating light and humorous moments. This novel could be read on its own, but I recommend going back to read the first book to get more of a sense of some of the characters and background on the romantic triangle between Ellie, Ramsey and Felix. This is a great choice for lovers of historical fiction, historical mysteries, spy stories and anyone who enjoys strong female characters.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
July 30, 2022
This is an entertaining second book in the series and I plan to continue with it. I give it a light 4* as I did not feel it broke any new ground. The love triangle (if you want to count a few kisses) was ok but I thought it very light on romance. The mystery was enough to make it an enjoyable read but nothing that has not been done before. I should mention that Electa's mothers story advances a smidgen.
March 21, 2023
In the second installment in the Electra McDonnell series, Ellie is once again asked to use her skills as a lockpick and amateur detective to help with the war effort. This time, it's riddle of the body of a woman suspected of espionage found in the Thames that she's asked to help solve, as she simultaneously learns more about her tragic family background and balances two equally intriguing love interests.
I miss the Amory Ames books, the series that Ashley Weaver has put on ice to write these WWII mysteries, but this new series is growing on me. Weaver's writing style is solid and engaging and it's fun following a larger cast of characters. I'm excited to keep going with the series! (Lucky for me, I don't need to wait long before the third book, Playing It Safe comes out.)
I miss the Amory Ames books, the series that Ashley Weaver has put on ice to write these WWII mysteries, but this new series is growing on me. Weaver's writing style is solid and engaging and it's fun following a larger cast of characters. I'm excited to keep going with the series! (Lucky for me, I don't need to wait long before the third book, Playing It Safe comes out.)
April 18, 2022
full review on spinebreaker
I'll be perfectly honest- the love triangle takes two stars off. Not only because I hate them but because there was a LOT of plot slowdown because every time either one of the guys appeared Ellie was like "oh I get this weird butterfly feeling even though I just made out with the other one!" And that happened SO much even when the plot was finally moving (which took forever btw). Not sure if I'll be continuing with this series- might skim the next one to see if the triangle resolves. Can't help comparing it to Rosalind Thorne, the only multi-book love triangle I've ever been okay with.
I'll be perfectly honest- the love triangle takes two stars off. Not only because I hate them but because there was a LOT of plot slowdown because every time either one of the guys appeared Ellie was like "oh I get this weird butterfly feeling even though I just made out with the other one!" And that happened SO much even when the plot was finally moving (which took forever btw). Not sure if I'll be continuing with this series- might skim the next one to see if the triangle resolves. Can't help comparing it to Rosalind Thorne, the only multi-book love triangle I've ever been okay with.
June 30, 2022
This book was probably my most anticipated of the year because I loved A Peculiar Combination SO much and this did not disappoint! There was so much packed in to this story, but let’s be honest, I was here for the slow-burn romance between Elektra & Major Ramsay. Oooooo it was so good. 🔥 Honestly this was just too short! I needed more! Can’t wait to see where this series goes, it is a new favorite.
June 21, 2022
I enjoy the chemistry between Ellie & the Major, the charming secondary characters, the wartime setting & the tightly knit plot. A winner!
October 18, 2022
Ellie McDonnell is asked by Major Ramsey to assist with unlocking a mysterious bracelet from the wrist of a dead woman. Turns out: SPIES. Between uncovering the woman's identity, interrogating fences, and a mysterious clock key, Ellie gets up to getting down with her long-time pal, Felix, and sharing charged moments with the Major. (Insert pun about getting her man.)
1. Meh.
2. Here's the thing: I complained last time about the clumsiness of the first person narration. This book has all those same hallmarks, but without the freshness of being a first book to balance it out. Like, we know these characters and have our opinions about what goes where (and with whom) and so the absolute flat tire of the narration really does this thing no favors.
3. If we have to do a love triangle (and do we have to? Can we not have nice things in the year 2022?), having a stronger point of view would help. Instead, Ellie doesn't spend any close time with her actual feelings for either man: they're as simple and clumsy as the first person perspective.
4. Which really sucks because I think this is a really interesting, engaging set up for a mystery series! Like, 1940s London during the Blitz with a lockpicking heroine who's on the wrong side of the law but dedicated to King and country? Paired with a taciturn military intelligence officer who's far too rigid and slightly pompous? YUP.
5. I'm absolutely still reading the next few, don't get me wrong: I just want them to live up to their potential.
1. Meh.
2. Here's the thing: I complained last time about the clumsiness of the first person narration. This book has all those same hallmarks, but without the freshness of being a first book to balance it out. Like, we know these characters and have our opinions about what goes where (and with whom) and so the absolute flat tire of the narration really does this thing no favors.
3. If we have to do a love triangle (and do we have to? Can we not have nice things in the year 2022?), having a stronger point of view would help. Instead, Ellie doesn't spend any close time with her actual feelings for either man: they're as simple and clumsy as the first person perspective.
4. Which really sucks because I think this is a really interesting, engaging set up for a mystery series! Like, 1940s London during the Blitz with a lockpicking heroine who's on the wrong side of the law but dedicated to King and country? Paired with a taciturn military intelligence officer who's far too rigid and slightly pompous? YUP.
5. I'm absolutely still reading the next few, don't get me wrong: I just want them to live up to their potential.
June 24, 2022
I continue to enjoy this series a lot, although this was not as strong a book for me as the first one. I don't really have a lot to say about it. I liked it, but it felt a little more like set up for future books. That said, I really love the main characters here and can't wait for more in the series.
June 22, 2022
WRONG SHIP KISSING!!!!! This was very clearly the love triangle development book and that's fine, but my ship is the right one and I expect more from that in subsequent followups. I continue to really like the setting for these mysteries and I love the cast of characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2022
This second book featuring Ellie McDonnell picks up about 3 weeks after the events of A Peculiar Combination. This reader suggests that you read the first book before opening this one.
I'm gradually developing a fondness for our heroine, Ellie McDonnell--in spite of numerous instances when she does something pig-headed, and then explains her actions away with 'everybody knows how stubborn I am'. That said, I did enjoy the case she gets roped into by the enigmatic (but attractive) Major Ramsey. It all starts when Ellie is called upon to do a bit of lock-picking in aide of cracking a German spy ring. There are all sorts of lovely twists and turns as Ellie and Major Ramsey work together to solve the case.
It was nice to re-connect with Ellie's family and friends. With the help of her friend Felix, Ellie made a bit of progress in her quest to discover the truth of her late mother's past. (This quest is obviously going to continue into future books.)
The author is also developing an emotional quandary for Ellie--her conflicting physical attraction to both Felix and Major Ramsey. (I'm Team Ramsey, btw). I'm okay with a triangle plot arc, as long as the author doesn't let it turn Ellie stupid. It will fun to see how it plays out.
I'm looking forward to the next book, whenever it comes out.
I'm gradually developing a fondness for our heroine, Ellie McDonnell--in spite of numerous instances when she does something pig-headed, and then explains her actions away with 'everybody knows how stubborn I am'. That said, I did enjoy the case she gets roped into by the enigmatic (but attractive) Major Ramsey. It all starts when Ellie is called upon to do a bit of lock-picking in aide of cracking a German spy ring. There are all sorts of lovely twists and turns as Ellie and Major Ramsey work together to solve the case.
It was nice to re-connect with Ellie's family and friends. With the help of her friend Felix, Ellie made a bit of progress in her quest to discover the truth of her late mother's past. (This quest is obviously going to continue into future books.)
The author is also developing an emotional quandary for Ellie--her conflicting physical attraction to both Felix and Major Ramsey. (I'm Team Ramsey, btw). I'm okay with a triangle plot arc, as long as the author doesn't let it turn Ellie stupid. It will fun to see how it plays out.
I'm looking forward to the next book, whenever it comes out.
August 8, 2024
4.75 🌟
This book flew by! One of its strongest qualities was how clear and uncomplicated the plot was. Sometimes mysteries can have so many parts and characters you can get confused but this one I stayed on track until the end. The setting was so vivid and real with the addition of the bombings.
I continued to love the main character, in fact she may be my favourite historical mystery heroine. This may even be my new favourite historical mystery series.
The only reason it wasn’t a 5 stars is because of one plot point that I found negatively impacted the plot. Otherwise, this was close to perfect for me. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
This book flew by! One of its strongest qualities was how clear and uncomplicated the plot was. Sometimes mysteries can have so many parts and characters you can get confused but this one I stayed on track until the end. The setting was so vivid and real with the addition of the bombings.
I continued to love the main character, in fact she may be my favourite historical mystery heroine. This may even be my new favourite historical mystery series.
The only reason it wasn’t a 5 stars is because of one plot point that I found negatively impacted the plot. Otherwise, this was close to perfect for me. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
June 23, 2022
This is a little simplistic… the plot is straightforward, with few moving parts, and the characters don’t change from book one at all. The tone is good - that formal, just-shy-of-stilted voice still works. But the story doesn’t really work with it.
I suppose this is a bridge book: it drops some breadcrumbs but there’s no resolution to any overarching storyline except the basic mystery. I’m not impressed.
I suppose this is a bridge book: it drops some breadcrumbs but there’s no resolution to any overarching storyline except the basic mystery. I’m not impressed.
June 20, 2022
Fantastic audio narration of a great series. The Key to Deceit is the second book in the Electra McDonnell series, and it does not disappoint. Expanded review to come later. I received a free copy of this audiobook via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
June 21, 2022
A thief, a major and secrets!
Electra (Ellie) McDonnell is on a quest. To find out if her dead mother really did kill her father. London, 1940. The war is raging, bombs are being dropped by the Germans. Major Ramsey, working for a secretive arm of the intelligence service has a job for this ex-jewellery thief and her family, her reformed safe cracking, jewel robbing family.
The major is a man Ellie is conflicted about. She’s antagonistic in his company, can’t seem to get a handle on her responses to him, and is alarmed that she thinks about him too frequently.
The government has found their skills useful in the past. Their help is urgently needed. A dead woman has been dragged from the Thames wearing a camera disguised as a bracelet. Major Ramsey needs their skills to try and track down a probable espionage ring.
I love the tension in the plot. Ellie’s quest for information about her mother is supported by her long time friend Felix Lacey, and yet to me there’s something a little off with Felix. And what has he been doing in Scotland.
Ellie’s unresolved feelings towards the enigmatic Major are a counterpoint of drama in the novel. The pages sizzle with understated emotion when they’re together. Ramsey obviously comes from a privileged background. As Ellie reflects, he’s the nephew of an Earl and “a toff through and through.” Mr. Darcy keeps flashing before my eyes whenever I think of him.
Ellie and her relationship with both men—Ramsey and Felix, does setup the potential for a future love triangle distraction.
BTW, thinking about attraction, I must say that I’ve found the cover of this title and the previous one quite alluring.
Another solid read from Weaver with plenty more of Ellie McDonnell to come I’m sure. I’m looking forward to the next “brick in the wall!”
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
Electra (Ellie) McDonnell is on a quest. To find out if her dead mother really did kill her father. London, 1940. The war is raging, bombs are being dropped by the Germans. Major Ramsey, working for a secretive arm of the intelligence service has a job for this ex-jewellery thief and her family, her reformed safe cracking, jewel robbing family.
The major is a man Ellie is conflicted about. She’s antagonistic in his company, can’t seem to get a handle on her responses to him, and is alarmed that she thinks about him too frequently.
The government has found their skills useful in the past. Their help is urgently needed. A dead woman has been dragged from the Thames wearing a camera disguised as a bracelet. Major Ramsey needs their skills to try and track down a probable espionage ring.
I love the tension in the plot. Ellie’s quest for information about her mother is supported by her long time friend Felix Lacey, and yet to me there’s something a little off with Felix. And what has he been doing in Scotland.
Ellie’s unresolved feelings towards the enigmatic Major are a counterpoint of drama in the novel. The pages sizzle with understated emotion when they’re together. Ramsey obviously comes from a privileged background. As Ellie reflects, he’s the nephew of an Earl and “a toff through and through.” Mr. Darcy keeps flashing before my eyes whenever I think of him.
Ellie and her relationship with both men—Ramsey and Felix, does setup the potential for a future love triangle distraction.
BTW, thinking about attraction, I must say that I’ve found the cover of this title and the previous one quite alluring.
Another solid read from Weaver with plenty more of Ellie McDonnell to come I’m sure. I’m looking forward to the next “brick in the wall!”
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
June 22, 2022
After reading the first book in this series A Peculiar Combination, I’ve been not-so-patiently waiting for The Key to Deceit. It totally didn’t disappoint.
One thing I love about Ashley Weaver’s books is that the mysteries are easy to follow yet amazingly clever. Throw in some romance elements, and I’m sold! This storyline has a bit of a love triangle, which usually isn’t my favorite, but the author handles the relationships brilliantly. Though let it be known, I am rooting for Electra and the Major. I suspect Felix is into shady stuff, though that’s just my guess. Anyway! I love love love intelligent heroines with gumption which is why I adored Electra. The twisty plot featured spies and secret codes set to the WWII backdrop.
I’m already stalking Amazon for info about the next book in this series.
I received a copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
One thing I love about Ashley Weaver’s books is that the mysteries are easy to follow yet amazingly clever. Throw in some romance elements, and I’m sold! This storyline has a bit of a love triangle, which usually isn’t my favorite, but the author handles the relationships brilliantly. Though let it be known, I am rooting for Electra and the Major. I suspect Felix is into shady stuff, though that’s just my guess. Anyway! I love love love intelligent heroines with gumption which is why I adored Electra. The twisty plot featured spies and secret codes set to the WWII backdrop.
I’m already stalking Amazon for info about the next book in this series.
I received a copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
September 10, 2022
It is very important to me that you all know that while I like Felix both as an individual and a family friend, this is the book that officially tipped me onto the Major Ramsey/Ellie ship and I don't see myself stepping off it anytime soon -"We all want things we can't have in life....that's why restraint is key".
Whyyyyyy is book 3 so far away!
Whyyyyyy is book 3 so far away!
June 6, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 5 of 5 stars
Series: Electra McDonnell #2
Publication Date: 6/21/22
Period: WWII - London
Number of Pages: 288
This series was off and running no-holds-barred with the first book in the series, A Peculiar Combination, and now this one is proudly carrying the torch. With strong major characters and strong supporting characters, this book (and this series) will definitely leave you with a pounding heart and fraught nerves! The mystery is excellently plotted and the book is well-written and perfectly paced.
I had wondered if there would be any movement in the quasi-love triangle that was set up in the first book – and the answer is – there is and there isn’t. While the Major’s interest in Ellie is quite obvious to the reader, it isn’t at all obvious to Ellie because she thinks he only tolerates her because he has to. Then there is her childhood friend Felix who is developing feelings for her. Or is he? I wonder if it is more to do with him being injured, etc. and he sees Electra as a solid in his life. Not that he doesn’t care for her, but I wonder if it is ‘the real thing’. I guess we’ll just have to continue to read and find out – but I hope it doesn’t drag on too long because that gets tiring to me – and seems unfair to the character who doesn’t ‘win’.
Everyone is on tenterhooks waiting for the German bombings that they know are coming. They know they are coming, but they are also in denial – until the bombs actually start dropping. Amid the tensions, Major Ramsey arrives at the McDonnell home to ask for their assistance with a lock – which happens to be on the wrist of a body at the morgue. Ellie takes a big breath and then agrees to help – little knowing that it would lead to a search for a nest of German spies who are helping to target London locations for the bombers.
There are banks to rob, suspects to follow, bodies to identify, and spymasters to catch all while London is being bombed into oblivion by the Germans. Before the search is over, the entire McDonnell clan along with Felix and an interesting new character will be involved. While they are pursuing the spies, Ellie and Felix are searching for information on Ellie’s mother (FYI – her mother died in prison after being convicted of murdering Ellie’s father – and she was pregnant with Ellie at the time she was convicted.)
I highly recommend both this book and the series. I hope you will read it and love it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Electra McDonnell #2
Publication Date: 6/21/22
Period: WWII - London
Number of Pages: 288
This series was off and running no-holds-barred with the first book in the series, A Peculiar Combination, and now this one is proudly carrying the torch. With strong major characters and strong supporting characters, this book (and this series) will definitely leave you with a pounding heart and fraught nerves! The mystery is excellently plotted and the book is well-written and perfectly paced.
I had wondered if there would be any movement in the quasi-love triangle that was set up in the first book – and the answer is – there is and there isn’t. While the Major’s interest in Ellie is quite obvious to the reader, it isn’t at all obvious to Ellie because she thinks he only tolerates her because he has to. Then there is her childhood friend Felix who is developing feelings for her. Or is he? I wonder if it is more to do with him being injured, etc. and he sees Electra as a solid in his life. Not that he doesn’t care for her, but I wonder if it is ‘the real thing’. I guess we’ll just have to continue to read and find out – but I hope it doesn’t drag on too long because that gets tiring to me – and seems unfair to the character who doesn’t ‘win’.
Everyone is on tenterhooks waiting for the German bombings that they know are coming. They know they are coming, but they are also in denial – until the bombs actually start dropping. Amid the tensions, Major Ramsey arrives at the McDonnell home to ask for their assistance with a lock – which happens to be on the wrist of a body at the morgue. Ellie takes a big breath and then agrees to help – little knowing that it would lead to a search for a nest of German spies who are helping to target London locations for the bombers.
There are banks to rob, suspects to follow, bodies to identify, and spymasters to catch all while London is being bombed into oblivion by the Germans. Before the search is over, the entire McDonnell clan along with Felix and an interesting new character will be involved. While they are pursuing the spies, Ellie and Felix are searching for information on Ellie’s mother (FYI – her mother died in prison after being convicted of murdering Ellie’s father – and she was pregnant with Ellie at the time she was convicted.)
I highly recommend both this book and the series. I hope you will read it and love it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 30, 2022
These characters are just the best! I am so invested in them. I love how Major Ramsey has his little posse of people like Kimble and Ellie has her posse—all those decidedly on the unlawful side. We get to meet a lot more of Ellie and Mick’s gang in this story, which is a lot of fun. They add so much amusing color to the core cast of characters with their criminal sidelines.
The title of the first book in the series—a peculiar combination—still holds true here, and I love this contradiction at the heart of the story. The ultra-lawful Major Ramsey has to (or gets to) work with the un-lawful in a world-turned-upside-down. There are some great jokes threaded through the story about Ellie’s past criminal behavior. It creates an amusing camaraderie between her and the Major that I really enjoy. I also love how both Ellie and the Major are inching towards a common ground. Ellie is becoming more lawful and the Major is becoming more...flexible. He is becoming more willing to see how complex Ellie's world is and quicker to make use of its strengths.
The WWII element is a lot more serious here. The Blitz has begun and it adds an urgency to Major Ramsey and Ellie’s mission as well as an interesting test of affection and of moral character. I’m looking forward to seeing how future books develop that theme. The pace of this story was very even and enjoyable. It was an exciting read but I could also take my time to enjoy the subtleties in the relationships between the characters.
The love triangle takes an interesting turn here. I feel pretty confident that my own personal favorite of the men will win the day with Ellie, so I was (almost) content to sit back and let things work themselves out. I love that the story is from Ellie’s point of view because it means that the men are true to type and thus more mysterious: the Major keeps his emotions hidden and Felix keeps his secrets behind his debonair front. It means the reader only knows as much about the men as Ellie does and I think it’s very effective. Interesting that Uncle Mick and Nacy are clearly rooting for the Major…
The story about Ellie’s mother moves forward quite a bit as well. I love this aspect to the story and how this plot line is distinct from Ellie’s work for Major Ramsey and yet intertwined.
To quote Major Ramsey, we all want things in life we can’t have. For me, that would be Book 3. 😆
The title of the first book in the series—a peculiar combination—still holds true here, and I love this contradiction at the heart of the story. The ultra-lawful Major Ramsey has to (or gets to) work with the un-lawful in a world-turned-upside-down. There are some great jokes threaded through the story about Ellie’s past criminal behavior. It creates an amusing camaraderie between her and the Major that I really enjoy. I also love how both Ellie and the Major are inching towards a common ground. Ellie is becoming more lawful and the Major is becoming more...flexible. He is becoming more willing to see how complex Ellie's world is and quicker to make use of its strengths.
The WWII element is a lot more serious here. The Blitz has begun and it adds an urgency to Major Ramsey and Ellie’s mission as well as an interesting test of affection and of moral character. I’m looking forward to seeing how future books develop that theme. The pace of this story was very even and enjoyable. It was an exciting read but I could also take my time to enjoy the subtleties in the relationships between the characters.
The love triangle takes an interesting turn here. I feel pretty confident that my own personal favorite of the men will win the day with Ellie, so I was (almost) content to sit back and let things work themselves out. I love that the story is from Ellie’s point of view because it means that the men are true to type and thus more mysterious: the Major keeps his emotions hidden and Felix keeps his secrets behind his debonair front. It means the reader only knows as much about the men as Ellie does and I think it’s very effective. Interesting that Uncle Mick and Nacy are clearly rooting for the Major…
The story about Ellie’s mother moves forward quite a bit as well. I love this aspect to the story and how this plot line is distinct from Ellie’s work for Major Ramsey and yet intertwined.
To quote Major Ramsey, we all want things in life we can’t have. For me, that would be Book 3. 😆
July 20, 2022
I received an ARC of this book.
I must admit I was a bit disappointed by this book. I read the first book in the series and had some issues with the plot and pacing, but by the end of the book everything seemed to work itself out and I ended up enjoying it, so I was looking forward to this second installment.
This book had the very same pacing issues, however. For most of the book, Ellie talks to herself though inner monologue and narrates what is going on in her head. It gets repetitive and boring, not to mention the fact that I don't thing anyone actually speaks that way to themselves. It came across as stilted and inorganic. I just really needed some action in the story, and there was too little of it.
I am not sure if I will read the next book in the series. It will either get better or get worse, and I'm not sure I can put up with it if it gets worse.
I must admit I was a bit disappointed by this book. I read the first book in the series and had some issues with the plot and pacing, but by the end of the book everything seemed to work itself out and I ended up enjoying it, so I was looking forward to this second installment.
This book had the very same pacing issues, however. For most of the book, Ellie talks to herself though inner monologue and narrates what is going on in her head. It gets repetitive and boring, not to mention the fact that I don't thing anyone actually speaks that way to themselves. It came across as stilted and inorganic. I just really needed some action in the story, and there was too little of it.
I am not sure if I will read the next book in the series. It will either get better or get worse, and I'm not sure I can put up with it if it gets worse.
April 18, 2023
These books are so short but I'm really loving them. I love all the war and spy aspects of it. The love triangle is annoying me, but only because these are such short books and I feel like we don't have enough time with both of the men. I wonder how Weaver is going to move forward with it, I have hopes and think I know who it is but there is no guarantee.
June 11, 2022
Via Netgalley, the publisher provided me with a free advance audiobook file to listen to for review purposes.
This second in in the Electra (“Ellie”) McDonnell series continues to make wartime England a key player in the story. This time around, we are set firmly in London, at the end of the “phony war” and the beginning of the Blitz. The Darcy-esque Major Ramsey again comes to call on Ellie, asking her to use her criminal expertise to open an unusual bracelet on the arm of a young woman’s body. The woman was found in the Thames, and Ramsey suspects she may have been involved in espionage. Obviously there would be no story if his suspicions didn’t turn out to be correct—and if Ellie didn’t insist on involving herself in his investigations.
A parallel plot to the spy story is Ellie’s decision to find out more about her mother, who was convicted of murdering her father, and who gave birth to Ellie in prison before dying in the flu epidemic. Felix Lacey, Ellie’s longtime friend—and now possibly developing to be more—helps Ellie track down those who knew her mother and might have insights into whether her mother was actually innocent.
A throwback to novels in the style of Georgette Heyer, with a bit of romance mixed in with the suspense, this is an entertaining story featuring a sparky female lead. I don’t think there is any real need to read the first in the series before this one.
Audiobook: While the narrator (Alison Larkin) reads well, to me her voice sounds too schoolgirlish to match Ellie’s character.
This second in in the Electra (“Ellie”) McDonnell series continues to make wartime England a key player in the story. This time around, we are set firmly in London, at the end of the “phony war” and the beginning of the Blitz. The Darcy-esque Major Ramsey again comes to call on Ellie, asking her to use her criminal expertise to open an unusual bracelet on the arm of a young woman’s body. The woman was found in the Thames, and Ramsey suspects she may have been involved in espionage. Obviously there would be no story if his suspicions didn’t turn out to be correct—and if Ellie didn’t insist on involving herself in his investigations.
A parallel plot to the spy story is Ellie’s decision to find out more about her mother, who was convicted of murdering her father, and who gave birth to Ellie in prison before dying in the flu epidemic. Felix Lacey, Ellie’s longtime friend—and now possibly developing to be more—helps Ellie track down those who knew her mother and might have insights into whether her mother was actually innocent.
A throwback to novels in the style of Georgette Heyer, with a bit of romance mixed in with the suspense, this is an entertaining story featuring a sparky female lead. I don’t think there is any real need to read the first in the series before this one.
Audiobook: While the narrator (Alison Larkin) reads well, to me her voice sounds too schoolgirlish to match Ellie’s character.
June 25, 2023
4.5⭐️ (I’ve rounded up my rating). I’m really loving this mystery series. Honestly, I don’t remember the last mystery series I was this enamored with. Totally worth a read. It has the right balance of intrigue, action, angst, reflection, and romance.
For those starting this series definitely start with book one. It’s not a standalone story. The series is set in 1940 wartime London (bombings are just beginning in this book) which suits the mystery perfectly. I’m loving how capable, smart, and determined Ellie the FMC is and how good she is under pressure. I also like how she’s walked a straighter road since she started assisting on missions with the Major. She still has her foot and connections with those with a questionable criminal background which makes for an eclectic cast of characters.
The love triangle sub-story is still there but was scaled back this book. I am hoping the love triangle fades away. I am currently concerned one charming gentleman involved in the triangle is not honorable and up to something. He had better not break her heart.
I’m deducting .5⭐️ because I felt the pacing was a little off (slower to start and lots of action and little tie up at the end). It also had with less time with one of the main characters, the Major, than the last book. I’m onto the next book in this series.
For those starting this series definitely start with book one. It’s not a standalone story. The series is set in 1940 wartime London (bombings are just beginning in this book) which suits the mystery perfectly. I’m loving how capable, smart, and determined Ellie the FMC is and how good she is under pressure. I also like how she’s walked a straighter road since she started assisting on missions with the Major. She still has her foot and connections with those with a questionable criminal background which makes for an eclectic cast of characters.
The love triangle sub-story is still there but was scaled back this book. I am hoping the love triangle fades away. I am currently concerned one charming gentleman involved in the triangle is not honorable and up to something. He had better not break her heart.
I’m deducting .5⭐️ because I felt the pacing was a little off (slower to start and lots of action and little tie up at the end). It also had with less time with one of the main characters, the Major, than the last book. I’m onto the next book in this series.
March 1, 2022
British Military Intelligence + Irish Safecracker + Spy Games = A Very Enjoyable Read!
The second in a series set during the beginning stages of World War II in England, The Key to Deceit, is the story of Major Ramsey's recruitment of a family whose activity is a slightly beyond the law. Ellie McDonnell has an uncanny skill in opening locks which comes in handy while trying to defeat an invading enemy.
The dynamic between the extremely reserved major and the fiery Irish Ellie is wonderful. The way they work together and goad one another along creates the perfect pair. The story is made more complicated and entertaining by characters from Ellie's world who are extremely quirky and loveable. There is also an ongoing mystery about her own parents.
Overall, this is a very entertaining series in more of the cozy mystery genre. It is fun with enjoyable characters who grow together due to their difficult war circumstances and work for a common cause. I am definitely looking forward to reading more by Ashley Weaver.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The second in a series set during the beginning stages of World War II in England, The Key to Deceit, is the story of Major Ramsey's recruitment of a family whose activity is a slightly beyond the law. Ellie McDonnell has an uncanny skill in opening locks which comes in handy while trying to defeat an invading enemy.
The dynamic between the extremely reserved major and the fiery Irish Ellie is wonderful. The way they work together and goad one another along creates the perfect pair. The story is made more complicated and entertaining by characters from Ellie's world who are extremely quirky and loveable. There is also an ongoing mystery about her own parents.
Overall, this is a very entertaining series in more of the cozy mystery genre. It is fun with enjoyable characters who grow together due to their difficult war circumstances and work for a common cause. I am definitely looking forward to reading more by Ashley Weaver.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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