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Her Secret War #2
Her Last Betrayal
Spying on the enemy is a dangerous game…
London, 1941
After losing her family to a Nazi bomb attack back home in Ireland, Sarah Gillespie joins the British Secret Services to bring them justice.
Partnered with an American undercover agent, Lieutenant Tony Anderson, Sarah embarks on a dangerous mission that takes her from war-torn London into the black mountains of Wales. But when one of her team is revealed to be a German mole, and enemies begin to close in, what price will Sarah have to pay to save her country, and to save herself?
A gripping and thrilling tale about one woman’s bravery in WW2 Britain, perfect for fans of Kate Quinn's THE ALICE NETWORK, Suzanne Goldring's MY NAME IS EVA and Ariel Lawhon’s CODE NAME HÉLÈNE.
London, 1941
After losing her family to a Nazi bomb attack back home in Ireland, Sarah Gillespie joins the British Secret Services to bring them justice.
Partnered with an American undercover agent, Lieutenant Tony Anderson, Sarah embarks on a dangerous mission that takes her from war-torn London into the black mountains of Wales. But when one of her team is revealed to be a German mole, and enemies begin to close in, what price will Sarah have to pay to save her country, and to save herself?
A gripping and thrilling tale about one woman’s bravery in WW2 Britain, perfect for fans of Kate Quinn's THE ALICE NETWORK, Suzanne Goldring's MY NAME IS EVA and Ariel Lawhon’s CODE NAME HÉLÈNE.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2022
166 people are currently reading
1249 people want to read
About the author
Pam Lecky
18 books297 followersPam Lecky is an Irish historical fiction author, represented by Susanna Lea & Associates, London. She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, the Crime Writers Association, and the Society of Authors.
Since 2020, Pam has been writing for Avon Books UK, and in January 2024, she signed a 4 book deal with Storm Publishing.
Her debut novel, The Bowes Inheritance, was awarded the B.R.A.G Medallion; shortlisted for the Carousel Aware Prize 2016; and long-listed for the Historical Novel Society 2016 Indie Award.
Pam lives in north county Dublin, close to the sea, where she loves to walk the beach, garden and herd her three PAs (2 cats and a dog!).
Since 2020, Pam has been writing for Avon Books UK, and in January 2024, she signed a 4 book deal with Storm Publishing.
Her debut novel, The Bowes Inheritance, was awarded the B.R.A.G Medallion; shortlisted for the Carousel Aware Prize 2016; and long-listed for the Historical Novel Society 2016 Indie Award.
Pam lives in north county Dublin, close to the sea, where she loves to walk the beach, garden and herd her three PAs (2 cats and a dog!).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
March 14, 2022
Genre: historical fiction, war spy novel
Tropes: WW2, spy, uncovering traitors, forced proximity
Series: Her Secret War #2
Cliffhanger: No
Rating: 4.25 ⭐
I have received an ARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and left voluntarily. Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy.
"Ireland might still be neutral, but Sarah Gillespie was not."
This book was so so soooo much better than the first one and I've read it in less than a day. It was a total page turner and I've enjoyed it immensely, really looking forward to any other future installments from this series.
"Sarah smiled sadly, welcoming back the old bedfellow: revenge. It was all that was keeping her going."
After agreeing to work for MI5, Sarah moves to London where she gets the chance to form a better connection with her cousin Judith and to continue the friendship she had developed with Gladys, as she also chooses to follow Sarah to England's capital. After a short training with MI5, she and her new partner, Tony Anderson, are sent to Wales for a secret mission where Sarah learns to question everything and everyone, especially after discovering a mole in their midst.
It's not only a book about espionage during the WW2, but also about dealing with loses, understanding love and finding friendship and comfort even when everything seems hopeless.
"Life would be easier if the baddies wore badges, wouldn't it?"
I liked a lot Sarah's relationship with Gladys and Judith. It was a nice touch that lightened the atmosphere and it portrayed a beautiful female friendship between the three girls, showing how, even in times of war, life goes on and things have to follow their natural course. It was funny and light, with girlish scenes and talks.
'I even contemplated burning some of your awful dresses.'
'You would be doing me a favour.'
'I aim to please,' Gladys said with a bow.
Something that definitely heated thing up a bit was the new character: Tony Anderson. Completely opposed to working together, despising each other and exchanging taunts constantly, they were not really an enemies to lovers trope came alive but close enough. It was beautifully written, the way their relationship evolved from deep mistrust and competitiveness to admiration, respect and maybe the tiny blooms of love. Their story is definitely not over and I'm wondering if the author meant to leave us with an open ending or if more books will follow.
'We have to grab happiness when we find it.'
'Are you always this philosophical when you drink brandy?' she asked, when what she really wanted to ask was had he found any happiness with her.
The best part of the book, however, was Sarah herself. She really did evolve a lot, the war giving her tougher skin and sharpening her instincts and wits. She may have lost her innocence, but, even after everything she went through, she still kept a way of believing in goodness, even when learning to look at everything with caution.
"At this rate, working for MI5 was going to destroy her fate in human nature. Trusting anyone was proving to be a fool's game."
Something I didn’t like was the death of a certain character, who will not be named. It was an important enough character in the first book to make this sudden death feel rather pointless and cruel, meant just as another blow at Sarah. But it also gave me the impression the author wasn't sure what to do with the character, that it had outlived its usefulness and death was the quickest option. Just my personal feelings on this matter, but I'm still hoping for a plot twists in future books where I'm proven wrong about this.
'So, what kind of day have you two had?'
Judith laughed. 'Dull as dishwater!'
'Boring as hell!' Sarah joined in.
'You two have been up to mischief, I can just feel it.'
It's a great quick read, with emotions and strong character, spying, plot twists and betrayal at the very center of things. Very enjoyable and definitely worth a chance.
Tropes: WW2, spy, uncovering traitors, forced proximity
Series: Her Secret War #2
Cliffhanger: No
Rating: 4.25 ⭐
I have received an ARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and left voluntarily. Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy.
"Ireland might still be neutral, but Sarah Gillespie was not."
This book was so so soooo much better than the first one and I've read it in less than a day. It was a total page turner and I've enjoyed it immensely, really looking forward to any other future installments from this series.
"Sarah smiled sadly, welcoming back the old bedfellow: revenge. It was all that was keeping her going."
After agreeing to work for MI5, Sarah moves to London where she gets the chance to form a better connection with her cousin Judith and to continue the friendship she had developed with Gladys, as she also chooses to follow Sarah to England's capital. After a short training with MI5, she and her new partner, Tony Anderson, are sent to Wales for a secret mission where Sarah learns to question everything and everyone, especially after discovering a mole in their midst.
It's not only a book about espionage during the WW2, but also about dealing with loses, understanding love and finding friendship and comfort even when everything seems hopeless.
"Life would be easier if the baddies wore badges, wouldn't it?"
I liked a lot Sarah's relationship with Gladys and Judith. It was a nice touch that lightened the atmosphere and it portrayed a beautiful female friendship between the three girls, showing how, even in times of war, life goes on and things have to follow their natural course. It was funny and light, with girlish scenes and talks.
'I even contemplated burning some of your awful dresses.'
'You would be doing me a favour.'
'I aim to please,' Gladys said with a bow.
Something that definitely heated thing up a bit was the new character: Tony Anderson. Completely opposed to working together, despising each other and exchanging taunts constantly, they were not really an enemies to lovers trope came alive but close enough. It was beautifully written, the way their relationship evolved from deep mistrust and competitiveness to admiration, respect and maybe the tiny blooms of love. Their story is definitely not over and I'm wondering if the author meant to leave us with an open ending or if more books will follow.
'We have to grab happiness when we find it.'
'Are you always this philosophical when you drink brandy?' she asked, when what she really wanted to ask was had he found any happiness with her.
The best part of the book, however, was Sarah herself. She really did evolve a lot, the war giving her tougher skin and sharpening her instincts and wits. She may have lost her innocence, but, even after everything she went through, she still kept a way of believing in goodness, even when learning to look at everything with caution.
"At this rate, working for MI5 was going to destroy her fate in human nature. Trusting anyone was proving to be a fool's game."
Something I didn’t like was the death of a certain character, who will not be named. It was an important enough character in the first book to make this sudden death feel rather pointless and cruel, meant just as another blow at Sarah. But it also gave me the impression the author wasn't sure what to do with the character, that it had outlived its usefulness and death was the quickest option. Just my personal feelings on this matter, but I'm still hoping for a plot twists in future books where I'm proven wrong about this.
'So, what kind of day have you two had?'
Judith laughed. 'Dull as dishwater!'
'Boring as hell!' Sarah joined in.
'You two have been up to mischief, I can just feel it.'
It's a great quick read, with emotions and strong character, spying, plot twists and betrayal at the very center of things. Very enjoyable and definitely worth a chance.
March 26, 2022
After losing her family to a Nazi bomb attack back home in Ireland, Sarah Gillespie joins the British Secret Service to bring them justice. Partnered with American undercover agent Tony Anderson, Sarah embarks on a dangerous mission that takes her from war-torn London into the black mountains of Wales. But when one of her team is revealed to be a German mole, and enemies begin to close in, what price will Sarah have to pay to save her country - and herself?
There's lots of information about the IRA and their dealings with the Nazis. Sarah is working for MI5. Her father was involved with the IRA. Sarah is trying to come to terms with the disappearance/presumed death of her boyfriend. She is partnered with an American Intelligence Officer, Lieutenant Tony Anderson. I liked that we were learning about the Irish perspective during WWII. The pace is steady throughout with elements of danger, secrets, suspense and betrayal. I did enjoy this book a little more than I did the previous book in the series, Her Secret War, even though they were both good books to read. Do yourself a favour, if you haven't already, read the books in the order they are written in. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #PamLecky for my ARC of #HerLastBetrayal in exchange for an honest review.
There's lots of information about the IRA and their dealings with the Nazis. Sarah is working for MI5. Her father was involved with the IRA. Sarah is trying to come to terms with the disappearance/presumed death of her boyfriend. She is partnered with an American Intelligence Officer, Lieutenant Tony Anderson. I liked that we were learning about the Irish perspective during WWII. The pace is steady throughout with elements of danger, secrets, suspense and betrayal. I did enjoy this book a little more than I did the previous book in the series, Her Secret War, even though they were both good books to read. Do yourself a favour, if you haven't already, read the books in the order they are written in. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #PamLecky for my ARC of #HerLastBetrayal in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2022
“Ireland might still be neutral, but Sarah Gillespie was not.”
Author Pam Lecky’s unique lens with which to view WW2 allows her historical fiction to stand above many others in the same genre. When we think of wartime fiction, Ireland and the IRA rarely, if at all, enter our thoughts. The sequel to Her Secret War, this narrative continues with Sarah Gillespie’s story. She now works for MI5 alongside US Naval Intelligence officer and undercover agent, Lieutenant Tony Anderson as they track down IRA members who are helping British fifth columnists and Abwehr agents enter and exit the UK. Her dangerous missions created tense moments as one of the team is revealed to be a German mole.
Although I didn’t care for the girly sections with her cousin Judith and friend Gladys, I did note that they were important in Sarah’s character arc. I loved following the development of Tony and Sarah’s relationship; finally, an author who shows us that not all relationships are love at first sight.
Full of suspense, betrayal, secrets and danger, this sequel has a wider scope than the previous one. Yes, it’s about espionage and yes, it’s about the wartime experience, but it’s also about learning to cope with stress and loss as well as learning to rely on close friends and learning to balance work with romance. I don’t think Lecky has completely mined this untapped part of wartime history and I suspect we’ll see more of Sarah and or Ireland’s role in wartime history. I sure hope so, as she has created a niche for herself with a unique setting and descriptive, tension-filled prose. I’m sure I’m not the only one who believes this author could write great mysteries or thrillers.
I was gifted this advance copy by Pam Lecky, Avon Books UK, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Author Pam Lecky’s unique lens with which to view WW2 allows her historical fiction to stand above many others in the same genre. When we think of wartime fiction, Ireland and the IRA rarely, if at all, enter our thoughts. The sequel to Her Secret War, this narrative continues with Sarah Gillespie’s story. She now works for MI5 alongside US Naval Intelligence officer and undercover agent, Lieutenant Tony Anderson as they track down IRA members who are helping British fifth columnists and Abwehr agents enter and exit the UK. Her dangerous missions created tense moments as one of the team is revealed to be a German mole.
Although I didn’t care for the girly sections with her cousin Judith and friend Gladys, I did note that they were important in Sarah’s character arc. I loved following the development of Tony and Sarah’s relationship; finally, an author who shows us that not all relationships are love at first sight.
Full of suspense, betrayal, secrets and danger, this sequel has a wider scope than the previous one. Yes, it’s about espionage and yes, it’s about the wartime experience, but it’s also about learning to cope with stress and loss as well as learning to rely on close friends and learning to balance work with romance. I don’t think Lecky has completely mined this untapped part of wartime history and I suspect we’ll see more of Sarah and or Ireland’s role in wartime history. I sure hope so, as she has created a niche for herself with a unique setting and descriptive, tension-filled prose. I’m sure I’m not the only one who believes this author could write great mysteries or thrillers.
I was gifted this advance copy by Pam Lecky, Avon Books UK, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 25, 2022
The Mission
Exciting and suspenseful this story is a fast paced page turner. Espionage, spies and danger all around. Even when you don't know if you can trust your partner on a mission...who can you trust?
Once again we join the Irish girl from the tracing factory Sarah Gillespie on another dangerous mission for the British secret service. She is sent to Wales paired with an obnoxious American Lt. Tony Anderson. She soon learns there is a mole on the team, but who could it be? Is it Anderson or someone else?
We follow her on her mission through close calls, faked identities, and even a bit of romance. She's sassy, independent and always gets herself into trouble. Dodging bullets, following spies and working undercover she brings a lively and spirited presence to the story.
I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Pam Lecky for writing an enjoyable story, to Avon books U.K. for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
Exciting and suspenseful this story is a fast paced page turner. Espionage, spies and danger all around. Even when you don't know if you can trust your partner on a mission...who can you trust?
Once again we join the Irish girl from the tracing factory Sarah Gillespie on another dangerous mission for the British secret service. She is sent to Wales paired with an obnoxious American Lt. Tony Anderson. She soon learns there is a mole on the team, but who could it be? Is it Anderson or someone else?
We follow her on her mission through close calls, faked identities, and even a bit of romance. She's sassy, independent and always gets herself into trouble. Dodging bullets, following spies and working undercover she brings a lively and spirited presence to the story.
I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Pam Lecky for writing an enjoyable story, to Avon books U.K. for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
March 22, 2022
HER LAST BETRAYAL
by Pam Lecky
Avon Books UK, Avon
Pub Date: Apr 14
Her Last Betrayal is a compelling sequel in the WWII series about Irish-born Sarah Gillespie, forced to become an MI5 agent to help track down her father, an IRA member suspected of aiding pro-Nazi sympathizers in the UK.
She's paired with Lieutenant Tony Anderson, an American spy, and together they undertake a hazardous assignment that covers embattled London and the Welsh mountains. Only Sarah finds herself deeply suspicious, even of Tony, with whom she begins to feel something more than collegiality.
What I especially love about this series is the Irish vantage point of the war, nearly unique in the genre, and so beautifully handled. The character development is strong and true, and I found the action-packed narrative held my attention. I wanted to know if Sarah and Tony would identify her father as an enemy, what the impact would be if he were caught, and if Tony could, indeed, be trusted.
Soooooo look forward to another episode in this absorbing series!
Thanks to Pam Lecky, Avon Books UK, Avon, and NetGalley for the digital ARC. All opinions are mine.
#HerLastBetrayal #PamLecky #AvonBooksUk #NetGalley #IrishWWIIfiction
#IRAinWWII #historicalfictionnovels #bookstagramcommunity
by Pam Lecky
Avon Books UK, Avon
Pub Date: Apr 14
Her Last Betrayal is a compelling sequel in the WWII series about Irish-born Sarah Gillespie, forced to become an MI5 agent to help track down her father, an IRA member suspected of aiding pro-Nazi sympathizers in the UK.
She's paired with Lieutenant Tony Anderson, an American spy, and together they undertake a hazardous assignment that covers embattled London and the Welsh mountains. Only Sarah finds herself deeply suspicious, even of Tony, with whom she begins to feel something more than collegiality.
What I especially love about this series is the Irish vantage point of the war, nearly unique in the genre, and so beautifully handled. The character development is strong and true, and I found the action-packed narrative held my attention. I wanted to know if Sarah and Tony would identify her father as an enemy, what the impact would be if he were caught, and if Tony could, indeed, be trusted.
Soooooo look forward to another episode in this absorbing series!
Thanks to Pam Lecky, Avon Books UK, Avon, and NetGalley for the digital ARC. All opinions are mine.
#HerLastBetrayal #PamLecky #AvonBooksUk #NetGalley #IrishWWIIfiction
#IRAinWWII #historicalfictionnovels #bookstagramcommunity
November 3, 2022
IRA tentacles!
Imagine finding out that your father’s an IRA lead officer working with the Germans. A father who’s deserted you and your sister for the greater cause. Who had you believe he was dead! Who did you bury in his stead? Now your sister’s dead and you want Revenge.
Sarah Gillespie is working with MI5 and when the chance to capture her father comes up, she takes it. That necessitates having an American, Lieutenant Tony Anderson, as her partner. An American, she doesn’t trust. He calls her Irish all the time and generally acts like a cad. They are off to Wales to locate her father and find out what the IRA is up to there. Of course things go somewhat pear shaped what with neither Sarah or Anderson communicating with each other.
Somehow Sarah’s presence comes to her fathers notice. And this is just the beginning of a torturous time for all concerned. There are moles in the Wales office, and in Whitehall.
The chemistry between Sarah and Anderson improves, but the early part of the novel is rather dotted with stiff dialogue between Sarah and her friends. With Anderson I could understand .
Despite this, the tension builds, and Sarah finds herself dashing through London streets trying to save a close ally of the British.
A Harper 360 ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Imagine finding out that your father’s an IRA lead officer working with the Germans. A father who’s deserted you and your sister for the greater cause. Who had you believe he was dead! Who did you bury in his stead? Now your sister’s dead and you want Revenge.
Sarah Gillespie is working with MI5 and when the chance to capture her father comes up, she takes it. That necessitates having an American, Lieutenant Tony Anderson, as her partner. An American, she doesn’t trust. He calls her Irish all the time and generally acts like a cad. They are off to Wales to locate her father and find out what the IRA is up to there. Of course things go somewhat pear shaped what with neither Sarah or Anderson communicating with each other.
Somehow Sarah’s presence comes to her fathers notice. And this is just the beginning of a torturous time for all concerned. There are moles in the Wales office, and in Whitehall.
The chemistry between Sarah and Anderson improves, but the early part of the novel is rather dotted with stiff dialogue between Sarah and her friends. With Anderson I could understand .
Despite this, the tension builds, and Sarah finds herself dashing through London streets trying to save a close ally of the British.
A Harper 360 ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
August 8, 2022
Her Last Betrayal was a very exciting read! If you are into WWII Historical Fiction and also love a good thriller, then this is definitely a book for you.
This book tells the tale of Sarah Gillespie, an Irish woman living in London after her world fell apart in Ireland thanks to her evil father, a leader of a sector of the IRA that is working to aid the Nazis. Upon arriving in London, Sarah gets a unique opportunity to revenge herself and her family against her father - but has no idea the series of events that are about to unfold. The author, Pam Lecky, does a profound job at taking us, the readers, on an extraordinary journey through London and Wales while we embark on an exhilarating journey of espionage, war, murder, spies and a little bit of romance.
The banter amongst the characters is one of my favorite things about the book. The author also is very descriptive and makes it easy to envision the book in your mind. It was also very interesting to see a perspective from the Irish about WWII because it is not very common to have that and in doing so, makes this book very unique.
This book tells the tale of Sarah Gillespie, an Irish woman living in London after her world fell apart in Ireland thanks to her evil father, a leader of a sector of the IRA that is working to aid the Nazis. Upon arriving in London, Sarah gets a unique opportunity to revenge herself and her family against her father - but has no idea the series of events that are about to unfold. The author, Pam Lecky, does a profound job at taking us, the readers, on an extraordinary journey through London and Wales while we embark on an exhilarating journey of espionage, war, murder, spies and a little bit of romance.
The banter amongst the characters is one of my favorite things about the book. The author also is very descriptive and makes it easy to envision the book in your mind. It was also very interesting to see a perspective from the Irish about WWII because it is not very common to have that and in doing so, makes this book very unique.
Want to read
April 19, 2023I just saw the third book on Netgalley and realised that the book I read in 2021 got not only a sequel but it'll be a trilogy? Okay, gotta get on that.
October 17, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
February 6, 2022
Just as good as the first book! I hope there are more adventures with Sarah to come as she navigates through WWII as a spy for England and finds her happy ending.
August 8, 2022
Sarah is a spy for the Allies and she gets assigned to be partnered with a guy named Anderson, an extremely egotistical and racist man. He hates "her kind" (the Irish) and isn't afraid to show it. It also doesn't help that her father is Jim Gillespie, an IRA member who heavily supports the Nazis. But Sarah's one mission is to take her father down after he betrayed her and left her and her sister for death.
When one of the members of her team are revealed to be a mole, the Anderson and Sarah must learn to trust each other in order to survive and complete their mission successfully.
This book had an extremely slow start. I'm pretty sure it took until page 150 or so to start getting really interesting. But once it started getting interesting, I couldn't put it down. I liked the romance between the two main characters and how suspenseful it was whether or not there was another mole in the team. I would recommend this to anyone who likes spy or WWII books.
When one of the members of her team are revealed to be a mole, the Anderson and Sarah must learn to trust each other in order to survive and complete their mission successfully.
This book had an extremely slow start. I'm pretty sure it took until page 150 or so to start getting really interesting. But once it started getting interesting, I couldn't put it down. I liked the romance between the two main characters and how suspenseful it was whether or not there was another mole in the team. I would recommend this to anyone who likes spy or WWII books.
March 29, 2022
Her Secret War book # 2
The story in a few words:
London 1941
After an air attack that killed her family, Sarah Gillespie leaves Ireland to join the British Secret Service to bring them justice. Partnered with Lieutenant Tony Anderson, Sarah embarks on a dangerous mission that brings them to the black mountains of Wales. The mission is to try and find her father, an avid member of the IRA and his sidekick Jenny McGrath before more havoc is unleashed. But there is a mole lurking among the MI5 agents working for the Nazi....Who is he and who can be trusted?
My thoughts:
Even if this is a sequel to “Her Secret War”, it stands well by itself and continues with another mission for our heroine.
Although a fiction it has a bit of everything and is a captivating read full with suspense, betrayal, secrets, danger, espionage and a tad of romance all neatly wrap up in intrigue. We also learn about the IRA workings with the Nazi from a deferent angle: the Irish vantage point.
Vividly said we follow these two characters through panoply of close calls, dodging bullets, even being taking hostage. For most part, the author has left behind the mundane day to day life we had in her first book and replaced this with intrigue and suspense. Sarah has grown nicely and is well define. I love the cocky personality given to the Lieutenant and how Sarah handled him...oh... maybe the Lieutenant has won Sarah’s heart?...
What an exciting read that kept my attention throughout, a page-turner no doubt. Well-said, well-done.
I received a copy of this book from Avon Books UK via Netgalley for an honest and unbiased review: these are my thoughts.
The story in a few words:
London 1941
After an air attack that killed her family, Sarah Gillespie leaves Ireland to join the British Secret Service to bring them justice. Partnered with Lieutenant Tony Anderson, Sarah embarks on a dangerous mission that brings them to the black mountains of Wales. The mission is to try and find her father, an avid member of the IRA and his sidekick Jenny McGrath before more havoc is unleashed. But there is a mole lurking among the MI5 agents working for the Nazi....Who is he and who can be trusted?
My thoughts:
Even if this is a sequel to “Her Secret War”, it stands well by itself and continues with another mission for our heroine.
Although a fiction it has a bit of everything and is a captivating read full with suspense, betrayal, secrets, danger, espionage and a tad of romance all neatly wrap up in intrigue. We also learn about the IRA workings with the Nazi from a deferent angle: the Irish vantage point.
Vividly said we follow these two characters through panoply of close calls, dodging bullets, even being taking hostage. For most part, the author has left behind the mundane day to day life we had in her first book and replaced this with intrigue and suspense. Sarah has grown nicely and is well define. I love the cocky personality given to the Lieutenant and how Sarah handled him...oh... maybe the Lieutenant has won Sarah’s heart?...
What an exciting read that kept my attention throughout, a page-turner no doubt. Well-said, well-done.
I received a copy of this book from Avon Books UK via Netgalley for an honest and unbiased review: these are my thoughts.
December 27, 2022
Sarah Gillespie is back in the second installment in the Her Secret War series by Irish author Pam Lecky. Sarah has decided to go on another mission for MI5. In Her Last Betrayal, Sarah is assigned, alongside American agent Tony Anderson, to dismantle IRA operations in Wales. How much will she risk for her country and herself, when her life is put in danger, and secrets bubble to the surface?
A delightful WWII historical fiction novel that picks up right where the last book ended. I love it when readers are able to see characters develop and grow emotionally. By the end of this book, Sarah is not the same naïve girl she was in the first book, and she begins to understand that you can’t always look at the word through rose-tinted glasses.
A delightful WWII historical fiction novel that picks up right where the last book ended. I love it when readers are able to see characters develop and grow emotionally. By the end of this book, Sarah is not the same naïve girl she was in the first book, and she begins to understand that you can’t always look at the word through rose-tinted glasses.
April 12, 2022
4.5/5 stars
I knew when I finished reading Lecky's previous novel, "Her Secret War," that there would be a sequel, and here it is! But don't worry about the title, I'm certain this isn't the last we'll hear from Sarah! You can find my full #bookreview on my blog here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2022/04/1...
I knew when I finished reading Lecky's previous novel, "Her Secret War," that there would be a sequel, and here it is! But don't worry about the title, I'm certain this isn't the last we'll hear from Sarah! You can find my full #bookreview on my blog here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2022/04/1...
July 21, 2022
Another great historical fiction, surviving story from war time. It interesting, heartbreaking, powerful. And you cant trust noone, even ypu closest people, ots a war time and spies are everywhere. Although it did start little slow for me, half way through it definitely got very good. It is second book from series, but can be read as stand alone as I did. I love historical fictions and this one definitely filled my heart. Thumbs up.
April 8, 2022
Sarah is a reluctant MI5 agent in London during World War II. Her father, Jim Gillespie, is active in the IRA and is working with the Germans, so she is given a mission to find him and bring him in for justice to be served. She works with an United States Navy officer, Tony Anderson, who is assigned to MI5 for this case, as it also involves stopping the IRA from attacking a war factory in Wales. The two travel together to Wales and eventually Sarah gets kidnapped by her father’s IRA cronies. Without giving away too many details, I’ll say that more than halfway through the book, the Wales mission is complete, and Sarah suddenly has another mission to finish in London to keep the relationship strong between Britain and Free France.
I found this book to be lackluster in both its story and writing. I will admit that I have high standards for historical fiction, but this one had me rolling my eyes every few chapters. It contained several WWII historical fiction tropes, which I found rather frustrating. One of the biggest? The man and woman agents dislike each other at first, but of course, from the first time they meet, you KNOW they’ll end up together. Ugh. So predictable.
As for the writing, that wasn’t any better. The conversations were so stilted. Much of the conversation seemed forced and not at all natural.
Additionally, in the first ten pages of the book, I learned Sarah’s father was in the IRA; Sarah worked for MI5; she was almost killed by a Nazi in Winchester; her RAF pilot boyfriend was sent to America in December 1941, his ship was torpedoed, and he was presumed dead; and much more. It was a bit of an information overload. The author has an entire book to share some of this information; no need to throw it all in the first ten pages and overwhelm the reader with details.
Finally, I was completely uninterested in Sarah’s relationship with Gladys—who turns out to be a very minor character in the story—and her cousin Judith’s illicit relationship with her boss. That one turned out to be a little more important to the plot, but I just didn’t feel that it was realistic the way it was portrayed. While Sarah’s time as an MI5 agent was an interesting concept, Lecky did not develop the character well enough for this to be a 4- or 5-star story. This book received three stars from me (and not fewer stars) because using the IRA/German relationship was interesting and made me do some of my own research as to the IRA’s activities during WWII. Beyond that, the story was disappointing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I found this book to be lackluster in both its story and writing. I will admit that I have high standards for historical fiction, but this one had me rolling my eyes every few chapters. It contained several WWII historical fiction tropes, which I found rather frustrating. One of the biggest? The man and woman agents dislike each other at first, but of course, from the first time they meet, you KNOW they’ll end up together. Ugh. So predictable.
As for the writing, that wasn’t any better. The conversations were so stilted. Much of the conversation seemed forced and not at all natural.
Additionally, in the first ten pages of the book, I learned Sarah’s father was in the IRA; Sarah worked for MI5; she was almost killed by a Nazi in Winchester; her RAF pilot boyfriend was sent to America in December 1941, his ship was torpedoed, and he was presumed dead; and much more. It was a bit of an information overload. The author has an entire book to share some of this information; no need to throw it all in the first ten pages and overwhelm the reader with details.
Finally, I was completely uninterested in Sarah’s relationship with Gladys—who turns out to be a very minor character in the story—and her cousin Judith’s illicit relationship with her boss. That one turned out to be a little more important to the plot, but I just didn’t feel that it was realistic the way it was portrayed. While Sarah’s time as an MI5 agent was an interesting concept, Lecky did not develop the character well enough for this to be a 4- or 5-star story. This book received three stars from me (and not fewer stars) because using the IRA/German relationship was interesting and made me do some of my own research as to the IRA’s activities during WWII. Beyond that, the story was disappointing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for review.
April 5, 2022
Sarah is in London employed by MI5 to track down her father who is working with the IRA and colluding with the Nazi sympathisers. She is seeking justice after the death of her younger sister in a bomb blast when their father left them for dead and absconded for his own ends. Sarah is partnered with an American Lieutenant Tony Anderson, and together they head to Wales and the last know intelligence about her father's whereabouts. One of the agents they meet there turns out to be a mole and betrays Sarah to the her father's cronies. She is taken hostage but Anderson's quite thinking leads to her rescue and the death of her father.
On returning to London Sarah is able to put information gleaned to from her father to good use and save a man's life.
I wanted to like this books - generally I'm happy to read war stories and a bit of espionage is usually exciting, but sad to say I found the characters rather wooden, two dimensional and somewhat cliched. The plot itself was well thought through but I don't believe the characters carried it off well, and there was far too much introspection from Sarah which slowed and jarred the pace of the novel.
Sadly this was not for me.
With thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books for an arc in return for a fair and honest review.
On returning to London Sarah is able to put information gleaned to from her father to good use and save a man's life.
I wanted to like this books - generally I'm happy to read war stories and a bit of espionage is usually exciting, but sad to say I found the characters rather wooden, two dimensional and somewhat cliched. The plot itself was well thought through but I don't believe the characters carried it off well, and there was far too much introspection from Sarah which slowed and jarred the pace of the novel.
Sadly this was not for me.
With thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books for an arc in return for a fair and honest review.
May 22, 2024
If this is what I think it is (Her Secret War #2) you can count me in on grabbing it when it's released! 🤞🤞🤞
It was book 2! And it was brilliant, hope there's a book 3 soon
It was book 2! And it was brilliant, hope there's a book 3 soon
November 19, 2022
Sarah is a most unlikely MI5 agent, a young woman who was quite enjoying her safe war effort job until her Irish IRA family connection becomes known and she finds herself being sent to London to MI5 headquarters. It's here that it's revealed to her that her father, an IRA leader, had not died during the Nazi bomb attack on their home, rather he had survived and had taken on a new identity. There's no love lost by Sarah, a cruel and abusive father, however she grieves for the loss of her sister who died from the explosion. Added to this grief it's only a short time later when she is informed that her boyfriend's ship had been torpedoed and that he has been declared as lost at sea.
MI5 have the need to neutralise her father and for this she is drawn into the operation. Also she is the only person who can recognise her father's long time female partner, one who had lived with the family for a short time for which there is no love lost there either. Sarah is to be partnered with an American undercover agent, Lt. Tony Anderson who initially is not at all happy about having an Irish partner with such close IRA connections and the relationship is quite frosty between the two of them.
After their training, mainly Sarah's they are given false identity papers and disguises, Sarah more than Anderson, a full disguise of wig and glasses to ensure that she's not recognised. The read picks up pace and its due to Sarah's quick observations that a Nazi operation is foiled leaving little damage to an important explosives manufacturing factory in Wales where the two are now located. It had become known that the IRA was involved in giving the Nazis information about British operations.
However, at a certain stage the two agents, not making much headway, decide to push the local Welsh harder for information and for which does bring a result that draws Sarah into extreme danger and for which Anderson ultimately saves her life. Back in London armed with more information about a further IRA attack Sarah finds herself in the thick of events again.
MI5 have the need to neutralise her father and for this she is drawn into the operation. Also she is the only person who can recognise her father's long time female partner, one who had lived with the family for a short time for which there is no love lost there either. Sarah is to be partnered with an American undercover agent, Lt. Tony Anderson who initially is not at all happy about having an Irish partner with such close IRA connections and the relationship is quite frosty between the two of them.
After their training, mainly Sarah's they are given false identity papers and disguises, Sarah more than Anderson, a full disguise of wig and glasses to ensure that she's not recognised. The read picks up pace and its due to Sarah's quick observations that a Nazi operation is foiled leaving little damage to an important explosives manufacturing factory in Wales where the two are now located. It had become known that the IRA was involved in giving the Nazis information about British operations.
However, at a certain stage the two agents, not making much headway, decide to push the local Welsh harder for information and for which does bring a result that draws Sarah into extreme danger and for which Anderson ultimately saves her life. Back in London armed with more information about a further IRA attack Sarah finds herself in the thick of events again.
April 4, 2022
I rely on Historical Fiction books to shock me, to surprise me, to teach me. Most important of all, I want the story to make me think and learn. Her Last Betrayal had me googling for more information. Her Last Betrayal had me sitting in silence, tears falling. I don't know how the members of MI5 and SOE were able to do what the did. I didn't realize how challenging it was for them. Total respect to the unsung heroes of WW2.
Her Last Betrayal was an action packed spy novel. The story had me on the edge of my seat, not only because of the action but because of the betrayals. I doubted the honesty of so many characters. If I could doubt the integrity of characters, how in the world could those on a real mission during WW2 trust those that were supposed to have their backs? My mind was blown more than once by the direction the story took. I can't tell you how many times I was left thinking, "I didn't see it coming."
Sarah Gillespie hadn't planned on joining MI5. She kind of fell into it. She was kind of pushed into in the book Her Secret War a story of espionage at Supermarine. She has impressed members of MI5. Now they need her help to find her father, a leader in the IRA working with the Nazis.
She will be risking everything to take down the man that abandoned her and her sister during the bombing of Dublin. Adding to the dangers is the conflict with her partner in the mission, an American called Anderson. She had to prove herself to him over and over again making for a lot of drama.
The mission will be dangerous. The struggles will be many. The suspense is a nail biter. Sarah's doubts plague her. Who can she trust? Who can she get to listen to her? All of this made for a book that had me hooked. I couldn't put it down. When I reached the end; I could only hope that Sarah and Anderson will be paired together again for another wild ride.
Her Last Betrayal was an action packed spy novel. The story had me on the edge of my seat, not only because of the action but because of the betrayals. I doubted the honesty of so many characters. If I could doubt the integrity of characters, how in the world could those on a real mission during WW2 trust those that were supposed to have their backs? My mind was blown more than once by the direction the story took. I can't tell you how many times I was left thinking, "I didn't see it coming."
Sarah Gillespie hadn't planned on joining MI5. She kind of fell into it. She was kind of pushed into in the book Her Secret War a story of espionage at Supermarine. She has impressed members of MI5. Now they need her help to find her father, a leader in the IRA working with the Nazis.
She will be risking everything to take down the man that abandoned her and her sister during the bombing of Dublin. Adding to the dangers is the conflict with her partner in the mission, an American called Anderson. She had to prove herself to him over and over again making for a lot of drama.
The mission will be dangerous. The struggles will be many. The suspense is a nail biter. Sarah's doubts plague her. Who can she trust? Who can she get to listen to her? All of this made for a book that had me hooked. I couldn't put it down. When I reached the end; I could only hope that Sarah and Anderson will be paired together again for another wild ride.
April 14, 2022
I rely on Historical Fiction books to shock me, to surprise me, to teach me. Most important of all, I want the story to make me think and learn. Her Last Betrayal had me googling for more information. Her Last Betrayal had me sitting in silence, tears falling. I don't know how the members of MI5 and SOE were able to do what the did. I didn't realize how challenging it was for them. Total respect to the unsung heroes of WW2.
Her Last Betrayal was an action packed spy novel. The story had me on the edge of my seat, not only because of the action but because of the betrayals. I doubted the honesty of so many characters. If I could doubt the integrity of characters, how in the world could those on a real mission during WW2 trust those that were supposed to have their backs? My mind was blown more than once by the direction the story took. I can't tell you how many times I was left thinking, "I didn't see it coming."
Sarah Gillespie hadn't planned on joining MI5. She kind of fell into it. She was kind of pushed into in the book Her Secret War a story of espionage at Supermarine. She has impressed members of MI5. Now they need her help to find her father, a leader in the IRA working with the Nazis.
She will be risking everything to take down the man that abandoned her and her sister during the bombing of Dublin. Adding to the dangers is the conflict with her partner in the mission, an American called Anderson. She had to prove herself to him over and over again making for a lot of drama.
The mission will be dangerous. The struggles will be many. The suspense is a nail biter. Sarah's doubts plague her. Who can she trust? Who can she get to listen to her? All of this made for a book that had me hooked. I couldn't put it down. When I reached the end; I could only hope that Sarah and Anderson will be paired together again for another wild ride.
Her Last Betrayal was an action packed spy novel. The story had me on the edge of my seat, not only because of the action but because of the betrayals. I doubted the honesty of so many characters. If I could doubt the integrity of characters, how in the world could those on a real mission during WW2 trust those that were supposed to have their backs? My mind was blown more than once by the direction the story took. I can't tell you how many times I was left thinking, "I didn't see it coming."
Sarah Gillespie hadn't planned on joining MI5. She kind of fell into it. She was kind of pushed into in the book Her Secret War a story of espionage at Supermarine. She has impressed members of MI5. Now they need her help to find her father, a leader in the IRA working with the Nazis.
She will be risking everything to take down the man that abandoned her and her sister during the bombing of Dublin. Adding to the dangers is the conflict with her partner in the mission, an American called Anderson. She had to prove herself to him over and over again making for a lot of drama.
The mission will be dangerous. The struggles will be many. The suspense is a nail biter. Sarah's doubts plague her. Who can she trust? Who can she get to listen to her? All of this made for a book that had me hooked. I couldn't put it down. When I reached the end; I could only hope that Sarah and Anderson will be paired together again for another wild ride.
July 30, 2022
NOTE: I received early access to this manuscript in exchange for writing an impartial review. Thank you netgalley and Avon Books. Scheduled Publication: November 1, 2022.
One of the most suspenseful and engrossing historical fiction books I've read in years.
HER LAST BETRAYAL is Irish author Pam Lecky's sequel to HER SECRET WAR (2021), which I have not read yet. But will now. Each book stands alone though I did discover a lot of what happened in the first book by reading the second. I recommend reading #1 BEFORE #2 because I wish I could have witnessed the story unfolding sequentially. Now, though difficult, I will make sure my review below AVOIDS spoilers -- for BOTH books.
The entire book takes place between December 1941 and February 1942 -- most of action over just 18 days. At the center of this historical novel about World War II is Sarah Gillespie, the adult daughter of a dedicated Irish Republican. Sarah is asked to help the British government's war effort by participating in some espionage work.
Unfortunately, she winds up being partnered with a nightmare of a more experienced American naval officer, Lt. Tony Anderson. He doesn't miss a single opportunity to question Sarah's competence or demean her. So, establishing trust between the two as they head into potentially dangerous work looks like an impossible goal.
As the plot unfolds, and despite their personal issues, Tony and Sarah are both dedicated to getting the job done. Their story is fresh and mostly unpredictable, with imaginative twists and turns. Because, after all, in espionage work, you can't always know WHO you can trust?
A fast, enjoyable read I recommend, especially to all World War II enthusiasts.
One of the most suspenseful and engrossing historical fiction books I've read in years.
HER LAST BETRAYAL is Irish author Pam Lecky's sequel to HER SECRET WAR (2021), which I have not read yet. But will now. Each book stands alone though I did discover a lot of what happened in the first book by reading the second. I recommend reading #1 BEFORE #2 because I wish I could have witnessed the story unfolding sequentially. Now, though difficult, I will make sure my review below AVOIDS spoilers -- for BOTH books.
The entire book takes place between December 1941 and February 1942 -- most of action over just 18 days. At the center of this historical novel about World War II is Sarah Gillespie, the adult daughter of a dedicated Irish Republican. Sarah is asked to help the British government's war effort by participating in some espionage work.
Unfortunately, she winds up being partnered with a nightmare of a more experienced American naval officer, Lt. Tony Anderson. He doesn't miss a single opportunity to question Sarah's competence or demean her. So, establishing trust between the two as they head into potentially dangerous work looks like an impossible goal.
As the plot unfolds, and despite their personal issues, Tony and Sarah are both dedicated to getting the job done. Their story is fresh and mostly unpredictable, with imaginative twists and turns. Because, after all, in espionage work, you can't always know WHO you can trust?
A fast, enjoyable read I recommend, especially to all World War II enthusiasts.
January 6, 2024
This was such a fun read—a real reason why books make for such entertainment. And here I confess to having utter respect for mystery writers. Having to come up with a rock-solid plot that doesn’t give too much away so that the story’s climax will be satisfying and suspenseful until the very end. That takes a subtle skill that Lecky continues to wield in this second novel of the Sarah Gillespie trilogy.
This second adventure is even more thrilling than the first, as Sarag faces more heartbreak and the prospect of facing off with her deadbeat father who has become involved in more than just the IRA, but mingling with Nazis and their sympathizers. And Sarah has another problem—her partner. American Naval officer Anderson is sarcastic, often rude, and full of sex-appeal, all of which complicate things for her. But can he be trusted or is Sarah becoming paranoid? Work with the M15 causes one to brush up against many double-agents, and she finds herself second-guessing everything.
I really can’t decide what I liked the best. Was it the riveting plot or the detailed characterizations that have a perfect 1940’s feel and are full of angst. Sarah especially, with her heartrending history of loss, faces even more at the start of the book. She tends to over-analyze sometimes and her past tragedies haunt her to the point of lost sleep. However, these same losses goad her into courageous and bold actions that others would never risk.
Again, I am at a loss as to how mystery writers concoct such logical and cohesive plots and complex characters. Lecky has really mastered it, and I applaud her efforts.
Five plot-worthy stars on my end!
This second adventure is even more thrilling than the first, as Sarag faces more heartbreak and the prospect of facing off with her deadbeat father who has become involved in more than just the IRA, but mingling with Nazis and their sympathizers. And Sarah has another problem—her partner. American Naval officer Anderson is sarcastic, often rude, and full of sex-appeal, all of which complicate things for her. But can he be trusted or is Sarah becoming paranoid? Work with the M15 causes one to brush up against many double-agents, and she finds herself second-guessing everything.
I really can’t decide what I liked the best. Was it the riveting plot or the detailed characterizations that have a perfect 1940’s feel and are full of angst. Sarah especially, with her heartrending history of loss, faces even more at the start of the book. She tends to over-analyze sometimes and her past tragedies haunt her to the point of lost sleep. However, these same losses goad her into courageous and bold actions that others would never risk.
Again, I am at a loss as to how mystery writers concoct such logical and cohesive plots and complex characters. Lecky has really mastered it, and I applaud her efforts.
Five plot-worthy stars on my end!
April 26, 2022
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Her Secret War, so was looking forward to reading this. I was not disappointed. Sarah Gillespie is back. She joined the British secret service, seeking retribution for the death of her family in a Nazi bombing raid over Dublin, in the previous book and is now on a mission in Wales. I think I said this last time but I was quite shocked to find out how much ‘neutral’ Ireland was involved in WWII. A really good historical novel set in London in 1941. Well written, well researched and it was a joy to read.
Briefly, alongside American undercover agent Tony Anderson Sarah is helping to track down IRA members who are helping the Germans. One of the senior members of the IRA is Sarah’s father, and he is one of the people she is looking for. However one of the team Sara is working with is a traitor!
Okay as historical fiction goes these are quite light so may not be everyones cup of tea. However, they are a very enjoyable read, with enough action and suspense to keep you interested throughout. The book includes insights into Sara‘s relationships with her cousin Judith and friend Gladys and of course work colleague Tony. All in all I thought this was a good read and I’ll certainly be looking out for the next in the series ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, alongside American undercover agent Tony Anderson Sarah is helping to track down IRA members who are helping the Germans. One of the senior members of the IRA is Sarah’s father, and he is one of the people she is looking for. However one of the team Sara is working with is a traitor!
Okay as historical fiction goes these are quite light so may not be everyones cup of tea. However, they are a very enjoyable read, with enough action and suspense to keep you interested throughout. The book includes insights into Sara‘s relationships with her cousin Judith and friend Gladys and of course work colleague Tony. All in all I thought this was a good read and I’ll certainly be looking out for the next in the series ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 28, 2022
Sarah Gillespie has survived a year of wartime tragedy. Her sister died in a German air raid which she later learned was facilitated by her own father, an IRA operative who faked his death to continue secretly collaborating with Nazis in return for their aid with the Irish republican cause. As if that suffering and betrayal weren’t enough, her fiance’s ship is attacked by the Nazis, leaving him missing in action.
When MI5 approaches Sarah for her help undermining her father’s spy mission and bringing him to justice, she can’t say no. Unfortunately, they pair her with insufferable American operative Tony Anderson, suspicious of her due to her Irish heritage and dismissive of her espionage skills. An undercover mission takes them to Wales to track down Sarah’s father, but German moles have infiltrated their operation and as Sarah’s sparring with Anderson gives way to attraction, she will need to decide whether the surly American can be trusted–or whether he might be the sinister double agent they’ve been hunting.
Twisty with just a touch of enemies-to-lovers romance, HER LAST BETRAYAL is a quick, fun read for fans of the historical thriller genre. Lecky packs her story with colorful secondary characters and enough red herrings to keep you guessing to the climax. The second in a series, an open ending teases more adventures from Sarah Gillespie in the future.
When MI5 approaches Sarah for her help undermining her father’s spy mission and bringing him to justice, she can’t say no. Unfortunately, they pair her with insufferable American operative Tony Anderson, suspicious of her due to her Irish heritage and dismissive of her espionage skills. An undercover mission takes them to Wales to track down Sarah’s father, but German moles have infiltrated their operation and as Sarah’s sparring with Anderson gives way to attraction, she will need to decide whether the surly American can be trusted–or whether he might be the sinister double agent they’ve been hunting.
Twisty with just a touch of enemies-to-lovers romance, HER LAST BETRAYAL is a quick, fun read for fans of the historical thriller genre. Lecky packs her story with colorful secondary characters and enough red herrings to keep you guessing to the climax. The second in a series, an open ending teases more adventures from Sarah Gillespie in the future.
April 28, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I read the first instalment of the book by Pam Lecky and I can truthfully say this one was so much better than the first. I’m always weary of sequels and how the author will continue the story after such a good first novel. However, Lecky did not disappoint and provided the perfect sequel to Her Secret War. In this novel, the reader follows Sarah as she continues her work for MI5 and hunts down her father who is a member of the IRA. This is a part of World War Two history which is so often forgotten in amongst the other stories to tell. I was so glad that Lecky decided to write about this part of World War Two history in Ireland’s neutrality.
While there is nothing in this book I could possibly criticise, I would only comment that I would have loved for the book to be longer. Although, while it was shorter than I had expected, Lecky kept me in my toes with every plot twist and revealed secret. I couldn’t have asked for a better sequel to the first instalment and I can’t wait to see what Lecky brings out next. Rest assured, I will be purchasing copies of the first and second book to add to my bookshelf amongst my favourite historical fiction novels of all time.
I read the first instalment of the book by Pam Lecky and I can truthfully say this one was so much better than the first. I’m always weary of sequels and how the author will continue the story after such a good first novel. However, Lecky did not disappoint and provided the perfect sequel to Her Secret War. In this novel, the reader follows Sarah as she continues her work for MI5 and hunts down her father who is a member of the IRA. This is a part of World War Two history which is so often forgotten in amongst the other stories to tell. I was so glad that Lecky decided to write about this part of World War Two history in Ireland’s neutrality.
While there is nothing in this book I could possibly criticise, I would only comment that I would have loved for the book to be longer. Although, while it was shorter than I had expected, Lecky kept me in my toes with every plot twist and revealed secret. I couldn’t have asked for a better sequel to the first instalment and I can’t wait to see what Lecky brings out next. Rest assured, I will be purchasing copies of the first and second book to add to my bookshelf amongst my favourite historical fiction novels of all time.
April 9, 2022
Mainly set in 1941 London during WWII, Her Last Betrayal is a gorgeously written Historical Fiction loaded with secrets, sorrow, espionage, spying, danger and relationships. The less common Irish perspective on the war is particularly interesting.
Sparks fly between Irish spitfire Sarah Gillespie and cocky American Lieutenant Tony Anderson as they are partnered up to join the British Secret Service for a special assignment in Wales. At first Sarah is defensive in her thoughts and actions but the reader sees her mature throughout. A double agent, Sarah's friends and fascinating characters Jim and Jenny come into play which adds fascinating layers. Watching cultural interactions with fun differences always fascinates me. I really like the espionage aspect and historical bits interwoven throughout.
Though a sequel in the series, this book can be read as a standalone without any problem. A few "old" comfy characters have returned and new ones introduced. If you are a Historical Fiction fan, you will most likely enjoy this series very much.
My sincere thank you to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this fabulous book.
Sparks fly between Irish spitfire Sarah Gillespie and cocky American Lieutenant Tony Anderson as they are partnered up to join the British Secret Service for a special assignment in Wales. At first Sarah is defensive in her thoughts and actions but the reader sees her mature throughout. A double agent, Sarah's friends and fascinating characters Jim and Jenny come into play which adds fascinating layers. Watching cultural interactions with fun differences always fascinates me. I really like the espionage aspect and historical bits interwoven throughout.
Though a sequel in the series, this book can be read as a standalone without any problem. A few "old" comfy characters have returned and new ones introduced. If you are a Historical Fiction fan, you will most likely enjoy this series very much.
My sincere thank you to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this fabulous book.
June 13, 2022
Sarah Gillespie is back working for MI5 to help them catch her father, a member of the IRA who faked his own death. Along with her father, she is charged with working with a partner, an American ally, to help discover how the IRA is working with the Nazis. As Sarah wonders if she can trust her new partner, she helps discover the fact that double agents are working with the Nazis and are looking to assassinate one of the most influential assets of the war.
Having read the first book in this series, I was so happy when I received access to this ARC. Learning what happened with Sarah and her sorry excuse for a father was well worth the wait. I enjoyed watching Sarah's interactions with her MI5 leaders as well as her American partner. This was a truly enjoyable story.
I enjoy Pam Lecky's writing and her ability to weave together a story full of drama and storylines that keep the reader interested and entertained. Her interesting perspective on the war as someone living in Europe. I will gladly read any story Lecky publishes.
Having read the first book in this series, I was so happy when I received access to this ARC. Learning what happened with Sarah and her sorry excuse for a father was well worth the wait. I enjoyed watching Sarah's interactions with her MI5 leaders as well as her American partner. This was a truly enjoyable story.
I enjoy Pam Lecky's writing and her ability to weave together a story full of drama and storylines that keep the reader interested and entertained. Her interesting perspective on the war as someone living in Europe. I will gladly read any story Lecky publishes.
April 15, 2024
In my opinion, "Her Last Betrayal" by Pam Lecky offers a mixed reading experience. The story, though enjoyable, starts off slow, only hitting its stride halfway through the book. Anderson’s character, while intriguing, falls into the archetype of the perfect jerk, adding depth but also predictability to the narrative.
Sarah, or Irish as she's nicknamed, unfortunately, embodies a weak female character trope, often needing rescue and lacking agency. I anticipated more moments of empowerment, hoping for a stronger display of girl power.
While the book held my interest, it didn’t quite make it to the top of my favorites list for the year. It left me craving something more substantial, leaving the future of the series in doubt for me.
However, I must commend Melanie Machugh's narration on the audiobook. Her delivery was captivating, and her accent added an extra layer of authenticity to the story, making the listening experience truly enjoyable.
Sarah, or Irish as she's nicknamed, unfortunately, embodies a weak female character trope, often needing rescue and lacking agency. I anticipated more moments of empowerment, hoping for a stronger display of girl power.
While the book held my interest, it didn’t quite make it to the top of my favorites list for the year. It left me craving something more substantial, leaving the future of the series in doubt for me.
However, I must commend Melanie Machugh's narration on the audiobook. Her delivery was captivating, and her accent added an extra layer of authenticity to the story, making the listening experience truly enjoyable.
March 2, 2022
Another great book by Ms Lecky! Couldn’t wait for this sequel to Her Secret War and really hope there will be more parts to the series.
The story follows on from Sarah’s life in Her Secret War. Sarah has travelled to London to join the MI5 in the hunt for her father. She is out for revenge for her sister, her ma and herself.
There is a new character introduced Tony Anderson, an American serviceman on secondment to MI5. Sarah and he become partners in the hunt for her father and their initial dislike for each other soon changes.
There is so much to like about this book- the espionage and spy rings with the intrigue and mystery; the camaraderie between all the workers within MI5; the sisterly relationships with Sarah’s cousin Judith and her friend Gladys; and the growth of Sarah’s character throughout the story.
A really enjoyable read.
The story follows on from Sarah’s life in Her Secret War. Sarah has travelled to London to join the MI5 in the hunt for her father. She is out for revenge for her sister, her ma and herself.
There is a new character introduced Tony Anderson, an American serviceman on secondment to MI5. Sarah and he become partners in the hunt for her father and their initial dislike for each other soon changes.
There is so much to like about this book- the espionage and spy rings with the intrigue and mystery; the camaraderie between all the workers within MI5; the sisterly relationships with Sarah’s cousin Judith and her friend Gladys; and the growth of Sarah’s character throughout the story.
A really enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews