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The Traitor Beside Her
Trust no one.
Justine Byrne can't trust the people working beside her. She can't trust the women who live down the hall. She can't even trust the man in front of her, and she just might love him.
Inside the walls of Arlington Hall, a former women's college in Virginia that has been taken over by the United States Army, hundreds of men and women sit, bent over stacks of paper. Pencils in hand, they labor to decode countless pieces of communication coming from the Axis powers. Justine works among them, handling the most sensitive secrets of World War II. But she isn't there to decipher German codes. She's there to find a traitor.
It's difficult for Justine to imagine any of the cryptanalysts as a spy. They are some of the most brilliant people in America—and some of the most eccentric—and they understand the stakes: A single secret in enemy hands could end thousands of lives. Someone has decided to share the Allies' secrets anyway.
Justine keeps her guard up and her ears open, confiding only in her best friend, Georgette, a native speaker of Choctaw who is training to work as a code talker. Justine tries to befriend each suspect, believing that the key to finding the spy lies not in cryptography but in understanding how code breakers tick. A frightening attack is her first clue that someone is onto her, making it clear that, along with fighting to save her country, Justine is racing a ticking clock counting down the seconds of her own life.
Justine Byrne can't trust the people working beside her. She can't trust the women who live down the hall. She can't even trust the man in front of her, and she just might love him.
Inside the walls of Arlington Hall, a former women's college in Virginia that has been taken over by the United States Army, hundreds of men and women sit, bent over stacks of paper. Pencils in hand, they labor to decode countless pieces of communication coming from the Axis powers. Justine works among them, handling the most sensitive secrets of World War II. But she isn't there to decipher German codes. She's there to find a traitor.
It's difficult for Justine to imagine any of the cryptanalysts as a spy. They are some of the most brilliant people in America—and some of the most eccentric—and they understand the stakes: A single secret in enemy hands could end thousands of lives. Someone has decided to share the Allies' secrets anyway.
Justine keeps her guard up and her ears open, confiding only in her best friend, Georgette, a native speaker of Choctaw who is training to work as a code talker. Justine tries to befriend each suspect, believing that the key to finding the spy lies not in cryptography but in understanding how code breakers tick. A frightening attack is her first clue that someone is onto her, making it clear that, along with fighting to save her country, Justine is racing a ticking clock counting down the seconds of her own life.
272 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2023
79 people are currently reading
7554 people want to read
About the author
Mary Anna Evans
36 books458 followersMary Anna Evans is an award-winning author, a writing professor, and she holds degrees in physics and engineering, a background that, as it turns out, is ideal for writing her new book, The Physicists' Daughter. Set in WWII-era New Orleans, The Physicists' Daughter introduces Justine Byrne, whom Mary Anna describes as "a little bit Rosie-the-Riveter and a little bit Bletchley Park codebreaker."
When Justine, the daughter of two physicists who taught her things girls weren't expected to know in 1944, realizes that her boss isn't telling her the truth about the work she does in her factory job, she draws on the legacy of her unconventional upbringing to keep her division running and protect her coworkers, her country, and herself from a war that is suddenly very close to home.
Her crime fiction has earned recognition that includes the Oklahoma Book Award, the Will Rogers Medallion Awards Gold Medal, the Mississippi Author Award, a spot on Voice of Young America’s (VOYA) list of “Adult Mysteries with Young Adult Appeal,” a writer’s residency from The Studios of Key West, the Benjamin Franklin Award, the Florida Historical Society’s Patrick D. Smith Florida Literature Award, and three Florida Book Awards bronze medals.
In addition to writing crime fiction, she writes about crime fiction, as evidenced by the upcoming Bloomsbury Handbook to Agatha Christie, which she coedited with J.D Bernthal.
For the incurably curious, Mary Anna’s first published work, her master’s thesis, was entitled A Modeling Study of the NH3-NO-O2 Reaction Under the Operating Conditions of a Fluidized Bed Combustor. Like her mysteries, it was a factually based page-turner but, no, it’s not available online.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryAnnaEvan...
Twitter: @maryannaevans
Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/maryannaevans/
BookBub: @maryannaevans
When Justine, the daughter of two physicists who taught her things girls weren't expected to know in 1944, realizes that her boss isn't telling her the truth about the work she does in her factory job, she draws on the legacy of her unconventional upbringing to keep her division running and protect her coworkers, her country, and herself from a war that is suddenly very close to home.
Her crime fiction has earned recognition that includes the Oklahoma Book Award, the Will Rogers Medallion Awards Gold Medal, the Mississippi Author Award, a spot on Voice of Young America’s (VOYA) list of “Adult Mysteries with Young Adult Appeal,” a writer’s residency from The Studios of Key West, the Benjamin Franklin Award, the Florida Historical Society’s Patrick D. Smith Florida Literature Award, and three Florida Book Awards bronze medals.
In addition to writing crime fiction, she writes about crime fiction, as evidenced by the upcoming Bloomsbury Handbook to Agatha Christie, which she coedited with J.D Bernthal.
For the incurably curious, Mary Anna’s first published work, her master’s thesis, was entitled A Modeling Study of the NH3-NO-O2 Reaction Under the Operating Conditions of a Fluidized Bed Combustor. Like her mysteries, it was a factually based page-turner but, no, it’s not available online.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryAnnaEvan...
Twitter: @maryannaevans
Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/maryannaevans/
BookBub: @maryannaevans
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
May 19, 2023
Not long after the US Government commandeered Arlington Hall as their new location for military intelligence and cryptoanalysis work through the War Powers Act, Justine Byrne was sent there on assignment because it was believed that there was a traitor among the code breakers.
The advice she was given: “Trust no one.”
I was spellbound as Justine overcame obstacles and learned to circumvent possible challenges by focusing on what made these code breakers tick rather than what they were actually doing.
I loved the preparation involved and the tension that was created by placing a spy among the most intelligent people in the country. Furthermore, the idea that one of their own would risk their secret getting into the wrong hands. After all, they’d been trained to know of the devastating repercussions, not only for themselves but for the lives of those they had pledged to protect.
The spotlight of a Native American language, Choctaw, being used added to an already compelling read and I appreciated the author’s diligence in bringing something new to the table.
Things I loved:
✔️STEM novel written by a STEM author
✔️a plot that had me running to Google things I didn’t know
✔️an intelligent read
✔️mystery
✔️character I was already familiar with from book 1
✔️unpredictablitlly
✔️tension/risk
✔️spying and tools of the trade
Things I struggled with:
✔️not enough emotion
✔️pacing
I was gifted this copy by Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The advice she was given: “Trust no one.”
I was spellbound as Justine overcame obstacles and learned to circumvent possible challenges by focusing on what made these code breakers tick rather than what they were actually doing.
I loved the preparation involved and the tension that was created by placing a spy among the most intelligent people in the country. Furthermore, the idea that one of their own would risk their secret getting into the wrong hands. After all, they’d been trained to know of the devastating repercussions, not only for themselves but for the lives of those they had pledged to protect.
The spotlight of a Native American language, Choctaw, being used added to an already compelling read and I appreciated the author’s diligence in bringing something new to the table.
Things I loved:
✔️STEM novel written by a STEM author
✔️a plot that had me running to Google things I didn’t know
✔️an intelligent read
✔️mystery
✔️character I was already familiar with from book 1
✔️unpredictablitlly
✔️tension/risk
✔️spying and tools of the trade
Things I struggled with:
✔️not enough emotion
✔️pacing
I was gifted this copy by Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 4, 2023
Justine Byrne is working as a welder in the Washington Navy Yard, she and her friend Georgette have just finished their training to be secret agents. Justine is sent to Arlington Hall, it was once a women’s college in Virginia and the United States Army are using it for military intelligence purposes. Justine is surprised when Georgette is also posted at Arlington Hall, they are given new identities, clothing and cover stories.
Hundreds of men and women work at the facility, they collect scrambled German communications and decode them. Justine is fluent in German and a math whiz, she’s not at Arlington Hall for her language skills, three women have gone missing, and a traitor is passing on top secret information.
Justine and Georgette mingle with the other ladies living in the women’s dormitories at Arlington Farms and they have no idea who they can trust. Time is running out for Justine to find the culprit, both she and Georgette are in danger of their cover being exposed and this will put their lives in danger.
I received a copy of The Traitor Beside Her by Mary Anna Evans from Edelweiss and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review. A Second World War mystery, with an emphasis on espionage, secret agents, spies and cryptanalysis. Georgette is a native speaker of Choctaw, she’s training to be a code talker, as we know this confused the Germans and I’m keen to learn more about this subject.
I haven’t read the author’s previous book, The Physicists Daughter and the first book in the series and maybe this is why I found the plot moved at a slow pace? Suitable for readers who enjoy historical fiction/mysteries series with strong and intelligent female characters, I didn't guess the spies identity and three and a half stars from me.
Hundreds of men and women work at the facility, they collect scrambled German communications and decode them. Justine is fluent in German and a math whiz, she’s not at Arlington Hall for her language skills, three women have gone missing, and a traitor is passing on top secret information.
Justine and Georgette mingle with the other ladies living in the women’s dormitories at Arlington Farms and they have no idea who they can trust. Time is running out for Justine to find the culprit, both she and Georgette are in danger of their cover being exposed and this will put their lives in danger.
I received a copy of The Traitor Beside Her by Mary Anna Evans from Edelweiss and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review. A Second World War mystery, with an emphasis on espionage, secret agents, spies and cryptanalysis. Georgette is a native speaker of Choctaw, she’s training to be a code talker, as we know this confused the Germans and I’m keen to learn more about this subject.
I haven’t read the author’s previous book, The Physicists Daughter and the first book in the series and maybe this is why I found the plot moved at a slow pace? Suitable for readers who enjoy historical fiction/mysteries series with strong and intelligent female characters, I didn't guess the spies identity and three and a half stars from me.
May 25, 2023
It's late 1944 and whilst WW2 might be drawing to a close, espionage is peaking. Justine Byrne has just recently finished a crash course in spying; utilising her intelligence, and gift for math and languages. When it appears that an enemy has infiltrated the high-level security at Arlington, stealing secrets from the code breakers, Justine is sent in to work as an undercover agent. It is imperative she discovers the mole before more people are killed, 'Wars are won with information.' But in an agency full of professional secret keepers, code makers, and code breakers, how do you discover who is lying? 'The world was full of coded messages. But how was she to know which ones were deadly?'
'The Traitor Beside Her' is very much like a female James Bond story, complete with nifty gadgets and disguises. The utilisation of other characters' voices to tell the story was a great way to add depth to the story. I would have liked to have read more about the actual secrets and code-breaking going on, as well as further character development. The book ends on a high and it clearly leaves room for a sequel. I thought it was an ok read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
'The Traitor Beside Her' is very much like a female James Bond story, complete with nifty gadgets and disguises. The utilisation of other characters' voices to tell the story was a great way to add depth to the story. I would have liked to have read more about the actual secrets and code-breaking going on, as well as further character development. The book ends on a high and it clearly leaves room for a sequel. I thought it was an ok read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 6, 2023
The Traitor Beside Her is Mary Anna Evans’ second book featuring Justine Byrne, daughter of deceased physicists, former welder at an aircraft factory, now an agent working with military intelligence. Justine and her best friend Georgette have been placed at Arlington Hall, a code breaking center near Washington D.C., a center that appears to have a leak. The skills Justine learned early from her parents will be needed if the agent who has caused Allied and civilian deaths is to be stopped.
It is late 1944 and, after the successes brought by DDay, progress in the war in Europe for the Allies has slowed. Then a new surprise attack by the enemy has actually caused a setback. To have their code breaking capability compromised was too dangerous at this point.
The novel follows Justine and Georgette as they begin this new job, meet new fellow workers, judging them all the while, and continue their relationships with their handlers/friends Paul and Jerry. I enjoyed the give and take of their friendship. I also enjoyed learning more about this type of setting which I knew existed but have never read about in fiction or nonfiction in an American setting. There were a few moments that I found a bit stretched but overall I really enjoyed the story and the writing. Evans has been a favorite from her Faye Longchamp Archaeological Mysteries series. Recommended.
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for an eARC.
It is late 1944 and, after the successes brought by DDay, progress in the war in Europe for the Allies has slowed. Then a new surprise attack by the enemy has actually caused a setback. To have their code breaking capability compromised was too dangerous at this point.
The novel follows Justine and Georgette as they begin this new job, meet new fellow workers, judging them all the while, and continue their relationships with their handlers/friends Paul and Jerry. I enjoyed the give and take of their friendship. I also enjoyed learning more about this type of setting which I knew existed but have never read about in fiction or nonfiction in an American setting. There were a few moments that I found a bit stretched but overall I really enjoyed the story and the writing. Evans has been a favorite from her Faye Longchamp Archaeological Mysteries series. Recommended.
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for an eARC.
February 21, 2023
Big thanks to both Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of The Traitor Beside Her!
Expected publication June 6, 2023
A former women's college in Virginia has been taken over by the United States Army. Justine works among them, handling the most sensitive secrets of World War II. She isn't there to decipher German codes, however. She's there to find a traitor.
This was a fun book to read! As others have said, Justine is a bit like James Bond. Make that a very YOUNG James Bond ... as is her best friend, Georgette. I loved reading about the gadgets they used!! There was a lot of suspense and mystery, and there were plenty of other well-fleshed-out characters, as well. Don't take it too seriously. Just hang on to your seat and enjoy the ride!
The last line of the book totally hooked me. I hope this is going to be a series!
Expected publication June 6, 2023
A former women's college in Virginia has been taken over by the United States Army. Justine works among them, handling the most sensitive secrets of World War II. She isn't there to decipher German codes, however. She's there to find a traitor.
This was a fun book to read! As others have said, Justine is a bit like James Bond. Make that a very YOUNG James Bond ... as is her best friend, Georgette. I loved reading about the gadgets they used!! There was a lot of suspense and mystery, and there were plenty of other well-fleshed-out characters, as well. Don't take it too seriously. Just hang on to your seat and enjoy the ride!
The last line of the book totally hooked me. I hope this is going to be a series!
June 29, 2023
I enjoyed the setting in Arlington Hall, Virginia, the headquarter for US army intelligence cryptography department. Part of the plot is a bit fantastical involving young girls sent to the hall, after a brief espionage crash course, to infiltrate and eventually expose suspected traitors. They are equipped with spy gadgets à la James bond and a cold-hearted handler who is a master disguiser able to pop up when least expected. The light romance with the handler is poorly written and frankly not necessary. The author would have been better served focusing on adding more complexity to the spy plot.
Narration was okay, although the voice for Georgette is rather odd.
ARC provided by Net Galley
Narration was okay, although the voice for Georgette is rather odd.
ARC provided by Net Galley
May 19, 2024
This book had potential but ultimately fell short of expectations. Set in 1944, it follows 21-year-old Justine Byrne, who is recruited by US Army Intelligence, to work at Arlington Hall, a code-breaking facility to uncover a traitor.
Initially, the premise promised a gripping WWII espionage thriller. Unfortunately, the execution didn’t live up to that promise. The pacing was inconsistent, with the plot dragging in places where it should have been tense and thrilling. The characters, especially Justine, lacked depth.
The historical setting was well-researched, but it often overshadowed the plot. The repetition of words throughout the book was distracting, and the audio narration didn’t do any favors, adding to the overall lackluster experience.
While The Traitor Beside Her started with possibilities, it quickly became boring. The lack of character depth, uneven pacing, and a dull plot made it a disappointing read. If you’re looking for a gripping WWII thriller, look elsewhere. I rated this book a generous 3 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher for a comp of this book. The opinions are my own.
Initially, the premise promised a gripping WWII espionage thriller. Unfortunately, the execution didn’t live up to that promise. The pacing was inconsistent, with the plot dragging in places where it should have been tense and thrilling. The characters, especially Justine, lacked depth.
The historical setting was well-researched, but it often overshadowed the plot. The repetition of words throughout the book was distracting, and the audio narration didn’t do any favors, adding to the overall lackluster experience.
While The Traitor Beside Her started with possibilities, it quickly became boring. The lack of character depth, uneven pacing, and a dull plot made it a disappointing read. If you’re looking for a gripping WWII thriller, look elsewhere. I rated this book a generous 3 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher for a comp of this book. The opinions are my own.
June 14, 2023
This WWII mystery, set in Washington DC in late 1944, is just as exciting as the first in this series (The Physicists’ Daughter.
While you don't have to read the previous book before you open this one, I would advise it, as it really sets up the personal relationships between our four main characters: Justine, Georgette, Paul, and Jerry.
In this one, Justine (and Georgette) trade investigating a possible traitor at the shipyard in New Orleans for uncovering a mole at one of the US code-breaking sites, Arlington Hall. The danger level is high--one of the young women working there was recently murdered, three others have mysteriously vanished. The reader gets a nice introduction to spy-craft, code breaking, and general government bureaucracy as well as a good look at the job pressures faced by some of the workers.
I loved watching Justine work out who might be the mole while learning the ropes of being an undercover investigator. She doesn't need to be able to read the codes, she just needs to be able to read the limited number of people, both men and women, who are the suspects.
The author did a great job of building the tension--I was glued to the book.
The climax was exciting, the resolution of the mystery very satisfying. There was a even a twist that I had missed in my rush to find out 'whodunnit'
Best of all, the author drops a hint at the very end, for further adventures for Justine and company..
While you don't have to read the previous book before you open this one, I would advise it, as it really sets up the personal relationships between our four main characters: Justine, Georgette, Paul, and Jerry.
In this one, Justine (and Georgette) trade investigating a possible traitor at the shipyard in New Orleans for uncovering a mole at one of the US code-breaking sites, Arlington Hall. The danger level is high--one of the young women working there was recently murdered, three others have mysteriously vanished. The reader gets a nice introduction to spy-craft, code breaking, and general government bureaucracy as well as a good look at the job pressures faced by some of the workers.
I loved watching Justine work out who might be the mole while learning the ropes of being an undercover investigator. She doesn't need to be able to read the codes, she just needs to be able to read the limited number of people, both men and women, who are the suspects.
The author did a great job of building the tension--I was glued to the book.
The climax was exciting, the resolution of the mystery very satisfying. There was a even a twist that I had missed in my rush to find out 'whodunnit'
Best of all, the author drops a hint at the very end, for further adventures for Justine and company..
May 16, 2023
It's 1944 and the United States is spending considerable manpower in gathering information from the enemy and breaking their codes. A college in Virginia has been taken over by the Army and houses hundreds of people working to decode hundreds of documents. Justine among them but she is there to find a traitor in the midst of all of the hard working people. She is thrilled to be rooming with her friend Georgette. They've been friends since their shortened training to become spies for the US government. Working with this intelligent group of people, she finds it hard to believe that there is a traitor among them who is selling secrets to the enemy. Justine decides to become friendly with her suspects to figure out who the traitor really is. She has a few clues but when she's attacked, she realizes that someone may be suspicious of her. It's a real cat and mouse game and a real page turner to find out who the traitor is. Along with the friendship between Justine and Georgette, there is a bit of romance and a lot of really neat James Bond type gadgets and disguises.
I've read several books about code-breakers during WWII but they have all taken place in England. It was interesting to read about the Code Girls of Arlington Hall and I have spent some time on google to learn more about the work that they did. I always enjoy reading a book that teaches me about something new.
The Traitor Beside Her appears to be part of a series. The main character, Justine, is also the main character in an earlier book The Physicists' Daughter. Also, the ending leaves questions unanswered for a new book. That said, this book is a standalone and there was no confusion from not reading the first book. I did enjoy this book so much that I plan to read The Physicists' Daughter soon.
I've read several books about code-breakers during WWII but they have all taken place in England. It was interesting to read about the Code Girls of Arlington Hall and I have spent some time on google to learn more about the work that they did. I always enjoy reading a book that teaches me about something new.
The Traitor Beside Her appears to be part of a series. The main character, Justine, is also the main character in an earlier book The Physicists' Daughter. Also, the ending leaves questions unanswered for a new book. That said, this book is a standalone and there was no confusion from not reading the first book. I did enjoy this book so much that I plan to read The Physicists' Daughter soon.
December 30, 2022
The Traitor Beside Her by Mary Anna Evans is a great WWII-era historical fiction that takes place in the States over a week in December of 1944.
This book has it all: fictional narrative, historical facts, mystery, suspense, intrigue, secrets, wisps of romance, and had me pulled in from the very beginning.
I loved the full character cast of Justine, Jerry, Georgette, Paul, and the full set of secondary characters as well.
The author kept the pace going, the dialogue snazzy, crisp, and realistic. I felt fully invested in this mission myself, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Maybe next time…Los Alamos.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Poisoned Pen Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/6/23.
This book has it all: fictional narrative, historical facts, mystery, suspense, intrigue, secrets, wisps of romance, and had me pulled in from the very beginning.
I loved the full character cast of Justine, Jerry, Georgette, Paul, and the full set of secondary characters as well.
The author kept the pace going, the dialogue snazzy, crisp, and realistic. I felt fully invested in this mission myself, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Maybe next time…Los Alamos.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Poisoned Pen Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/6/23.
May 22, 2023
This was a fun, historical mystery. I love that Mary Anna Evans' background in STEM shines through in this series. The story is set toward the end of the Second World War, and Justine (who is relatively new to this world of espionage) is charged with finding a spy. Since a lot of the "code-breaking" WWII novels are set in England, this unique setting made for a different read.
While the story's pacing felt a little slower than expected, The Traitor Beside Her was still a quick read and could definitely be read as a standalone. Some fun spy tools were used within the story, which gave the plot a very James Bond vibe at times. Although I felt a bit of a disconnect from the characters overall, I still loved getting to re-visit familiar characters from the first novel, and enjoyed seeing Justine and Georgette's love interests develop further.
Thanks to the publisher for my gifted copy!
While the story's pacing felt a little slower than expected, The Traitor Beside Her was still a quick read and could definitely be read as a standalone. Some fun spy tools were used within the story, which gave the plot a very James Bond vibe at times. Although I felt a bit of a disconnect from the characters overall, I still loved getting to re-visit familiar characters from the first novel, and enjoyed seeing Justine and Georgette's love interests develop further.
Thanks to the publisher for my gifted copy!
May 8, 2023
The Traitor Beside Her by Mary Anna Evans is the second in a series following the equally phenomenal The Physicists' Daughter. It is a refreshingly clean historical mystery chock full of suspense and atmosphere with enough originality to really elevate it within the genre. I was transfixed whilst reading it and took great pleasure learning more about code breaking and deciphering during WWII. Who doesn't love stories based on real life events and people about espionage, intelligence gathering, inveigling and identity switching?
Justine drew inspiration from her parents who were physicists and also inherited their predilection for maths and languages. Her loyalties are tested more than once and she is hired to break codes in Washington, DC. But not everything is as it seems. Justine must actually discover an infiltrating traitor. She and her best friend Georgette become involved in dangerous missions and armed with special skill sets, perseverance and fascinating gadgetry, they are up to the task. Adventures ensue. Love is on the line, too. War's effects are far reaching and I like the slices of reality the well-researched historical bits add.
The author's evocative writing really connects with me. Her words pack a subtle yet powerful punch and her pacing is spot on. There is just something about this series that gets me right in the heart.
My sincere thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this sublime novel. Mary Anna Evans is an author I will happily automatically read. No blurb necessary.
Justine drew inspiration from her parents who were physicists and also inherited their predilection for maths and languages. Her loyalties are tested more than once and she is hired to break codes in Washington, DC. But not everything is as it seems. Justine must actually discover an infiltrating traitor. She and her best friend Georgette become involved in dangerous missions and armed with special skill sets, perseverance and fascinating gadgetry, they are up to the task. Adventures ensue. Love is on the line, too. War's effects are far reaching and I like the slices of reality the well-researched historical bits add.
The author's evocative writing really connects with me. Her words pack a subtle yet powerful punch and her pacing is spot on. There is just something about this series that gets me right in the heart.
My sincere thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this sublime novel. Mary Anna Evans is an author I will happily automatically read. No blurb necessary.
June 15, 2023
3 stars
I enjoyed this WWII domestic espionage mystery. The story is engaging & the MC is mostly likable. I’ve never read a novel about the SSA code breakers in DC, so that was nice to learn more about. I wish the romance subplot was either nonexistent or better written, though.
[What I liked:]
•Justine (the MC) is smart, determined, & pretty brave. She annoyed me at points, but I liked her overall. It’s always nice to have woman characters in historical fiction who break some gender norms (being good at math, e.g.) without being the most tomboy to ever tomboy. (Tomboys are great, I just think they are overrepresented in historical fiction.)
•The story is definitely exciting. Justine & her sidekick Georgette are in mortal danger while trying to unmask a traitor. They get to use physical fighting prowess as well their wits to defend themselves & complete the mission.
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•The very ending, which seems like it might be a set up for a sequel, seemed annoyingly contrived. If the location of Georgette’s next mission was *so* top secret that her *handler* wouldn’t even know she had been reassigned, why would she write it down in a library book for Justine to find? Wouldn’t that be breaking security protocol? And if Georgette had enough advance notice to go to the library & leave coded message, why not just tell Justine who lived next door? Or just leave a coded note under her door?
•Also, if field agents got reassigned, wouldn’t their handlers be told? It seems silly to have them waste time & resources searching for agents they think are missing and in danger when they could just be told, “yeah, your direct report has been reassigned; we can’t tell you more, but don’t worry”.
•I feel very meh about Justine & Paul’s romance. We see barely any interaction between them, & Paul is Justine’s boss, yet Justine is convinced from the start of the book that he’s madly in love with her & she resents him for keeping the relationship professional. Picking up on the fact that someone might be into you is pretty different than having them declare their love to you. Justine seemed very immature for this reason, & it just made me annoyed when they became a couple by the end (after only a few more interactions & zero talking about the relationship).
CW: racism, sexism, ableism, murder, suicide, sexual assault
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
I enjoyed this WWII domestic espionage mystery. The story is engaging & the MC is mostly likable. I’ve never read a novel about the SSA code breakers in DC, so that was nice to learn more about. I wish the romance subplot was either nonexistent or better written, though.
[What I liked:]
•Justine (the MC) is smart, determined, & pretty brave. She annoyed me at points, but I liked her overall. It’s always nice to have woman characters in historical fiction who break some gender norms (being good at math, e.g.) without being the most tomboy to ever tomboy. (Tomboys are great, I just think they are overrepresented in historical fiction.)
•The story is definitely exciting. Justine & her sidekick Georgette are in mortal danger while trying to unmask a traitor. They get to use physical fighting prowess as well their wits to defend themselves & complete the mission.
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•The very ending, which seems like it might be a set up for a sequel, seemed annoyingly contrived. If the location of Georgette’s next mission was *so* top secret that her *handler* wouldn’t even know she had been reassigned, why would she write it down in a library book for Justine to find? Wouldn’t that be breaking security protocol? And if Georgette had enough advance notice to go to the library & leave coded message, why not just tell Justine who lived next door? Or just leave a coded note under her door?
•Also, if field agents got reassigned, wouldn’t their handlers be told? It seems silly to have them waste time & resources searching for agents they think are missing and in danger when they could just be told, “yeah, your direct report has been reassigned; we can’t tell you more, but don’t worry”.
•I feel very meh about Justine & Paul’s romance. We see barely any interaction between them, & Paul is Justine’s boss, yet Justine is convinced from the start of the book that he’s madly in love with her & she resents him for keeping the relationship professional. Picking up on the fact that someone might be into you is pretty different than having them declare their love to you. Justine seemed very immature for this reason, & it just made me annoyed when they became a couple by the end (after only a few more interactions & zero talking about the relationship).
CW: racism, sexism, ableism, murder, suicide, sexual assault
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
May 20, 2023
Justine can trust no one. Not the people working beside her, and not even the man she might love.
Justine is on assignment and staying at Arlington Hall, a former women’s college in Virginia that has been taken over by the United States Army. She’s working beside them, handling the most sensitive secrets of World War II. But she isn’t there to decipher German codes, she’s there to hunt out a traitor.
As Justine works side by side with everyone, she struggles with identifying who could be a spy. These are some of the most brilliant people in America. As she befriends everyone trying to determine what makes them tick, she is racing against a ticking clock counting down her own life.
My favorite part of this book was that it was a STEM novel written by a STEM author. I just love women in STEM representations and this one was great in that regard. We need to do everything we can to normalize women in STEM and books like this help that. I didn’t like that this book was a little slow and I just didn’t get a ton of emotion from the pages. It felt a little stale. The friendship between Justine and Georgette was fantastic and I loved it. This was a great female James Bond story – including fun gadgets!
If you are looking for a fantastic woman in STEM book and one with a great friendship, then check this one out June 6th.
Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press, @poisonedpenpress, and Netgalley, @netgalley, for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Additional links will be added once posted.
Justine is on assignment and staying at Arlington Hall, a former women’s college in Virginia that has been taken over by the United States Army. She’s working beside them, handling the most sensitive secrets of World War II. But she isn’t there to decipher German codes, she’s there to hunt out a traitor.
As Justine works side by side with everyone, she struggles with identifying who could be a spy. These are some of the most brilliant people in America. As she befriends everyone trying to determine what makes them tick, she is racing against a ticking clock counting down her own life.
My favorite part of this book was that it was a STEM novel written by a STEM author. I just love women in STEM representations and this one was great in that regard. We need to do everything we can to normalize women in STEM and books like this help that. I didn’t like that this book was a little slow and I just didn’t get a ton of emotion from the pages. It felt a little stale. The friendship between Justine and Georgette was fantastic and I loved it. This was a great female James Bond story – including fun gadgets!
If you are looking for a fantastic woman in STEM book and one with a great friendship, then check this one out June 6th.
Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press, @poisonedpenpress, and Netgalley, @netgalley, for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Additional links will be added once posted.
July 1, 2023
Thank you to libro.fm for providing me with an ALC of this audiobook. I am offering my honest opinion voluntarily.
I was especially intrigued by this story because there's so many books out there about WWII but so few that I've noticed focusing on this aspect of the war. I loved that this is very much a novel about women in STEM, especially at a time in the past when women didn't traditionally work in those fields, and that the author's own background in STEM shines through so vividly.
Justine is brilliant, and her intellect was nice to see come through. She speaks multiple languages, at least two of them fluently, and is highly knowledgable about several sciences which makes her the perfect fit for a spy position. Justine and her friend Georgette team up to sniff out a traitor among the people who decode messages from the Germans and code messages between Allied troops.
The writing was a bit on the young side, almost as though it was geared towards YA readers, and the pacing was a bit slow. I didn't realize that this was a series until after finishing this book, but that makes sense given the way this book ended with an opening for future books.
I was especially intrigued by this story because there's so many books out there about WWII but so few that I've noticed focusing on this aspect of the war. I loved that this is very much a novel about women in STEM, especially at a time in the past when women didn't traditionally work in those fields, and that the author's own background in STEM shines through so vividly.
Justine is brilliant, and her intellect was nice to see come through. She speaks multiple languages, at least two of them fluently, and is highly knowledgable about several sciences which makes her the perfect fit for a spy position. Justine and her friend Georgette team up to sniff out a traitor among the people who decode messages from the Germans and code messages between Allied troops.
The writing was a bit on the young side, almost as though it was geared towards YA readers, and the pacing was a bit slow. I didn't realize that this was a series until after finishing this book, but that makes sense given the way this book ended with an opening for future books.
March 13, 2023
Excellent follow-up to The Physicists’ Daughter!
Justine may be anachronistic in her time, but so were her mother and godmother back in Louisiana. She is added to a relatively new intelligence gathering agency in Washington, DC to find a traitor. At first it seems as if she is not up to the job. Then the work planned for her is railroaded into an even more useful one. That also results in being reunited with her friend and helping her to finish learning high school subjects while being taught Choctaw as a coded language. Lots more twists and surprises make this an excellent read! I found the story and the writing riveting and insightful with evidence of real research. As a dedicated history geek, I loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley. Thank you!
Justine may be anachronistic in her time, but so were her mother and godmother back in Louisiana. She is added to a relatively new intelligence gathering agency in Washington, DC to find a traitor. At first it seems as if she is not up to the job. Then the work planned for her is railroaded into an even more useful one. That also results in being reunited with her friend and helping her to finish learning high school subjects while being taught Choctaw as a coded language. Lots more twists and surprises make this an excellent read! I found the story and the writing riveting and insightful with evidence of real research. As a dedicated history geek, I loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley. Thank you!
July 5, 2023
The concept is intriguing, a female spy during WWII. However, there is too much going on (espionage, multiple romances, lost friends reuniting, and a gratuitous lesbian relationship thrown in at the end ... why?), the descriptions were too simple (the number of times the author used the phrase "spy stuff" was infuriating.), and the villian was obvious from the moment the character was introduced. I finished the book simply because I believe in completing what I start.
July 13, 2023
I was very excited to read an American based ww2 historical fiction book, since I would say the majority of these types of books occur in Europe. However this book was disappointing. I felt the story was slow. It invested a lot of time in things that did not move the story ahead. I did not like the Hail Mary gay couple the author threw in at the end that had nothing to do with the story. However, I was surprised by the end of the story and who the traitor was.
October 11, 2023
By far the best WW2 mystery I’ve read. I felt like I should have seen the ending coming, but I didn’t because there were so many twists and distractions, and whatever was going on with Paul, like what? All in all, if you like mysteries with epic mc’s, read this book. :)
February 22, 2024
Simple and non-compelling. Amateur writing. Just kept hoping for end. 2.8 stars at best.
December 8, 2024
Intrigue in decoding WWII messages to determine who is the spy among the group that is housed in a former college in Va. Entertaining book.
May 27, 2025
3 or 3.5
December 19, 2022
[arc review]
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
The Traitor Beside Her releases June 6, 2023
This historical mystery hooked me from start to end.
Readers that enjoy WW2 settings, undercover work, traitors/spies, decrypting coded messages, secrets, female friendship, and statements such as “trust no one” will for sure like this book!
Set in Arlington during one week in December in 1944, we meet Justine, whose task is to determine who among the coders in Room 117 is a traitor. But mere minutes into her first day, her disguise is busted by a longtime family friend. With quick thinking from their government team, her best friend Georgette gets reassigned as her roommate, and takes over the false identity of Samantha.
This had exciting elements of purses with false bottoms for hidden compartments, a tiny camera built into a handheld matchbox, pens and pencils disguised to hide a functioning blade, a gun with a singular .22 bullet, and a chamber with pepper spray.
I really enjoyed how we didn’t just get the narration of the main character Justine, but also had perspectives scattered throughout of most of the secondary characters. It allowed this to be well-rounded and gave the reader the opportunity to piece together clues from all angles.
I was expecting a bit more detail or incorporation of actual decrypting of messages/codes, but overall I was quite satisfied with the progression of the story and how everything wrapped up and was revealed. Sometimes the best kept secrets are hidden in plain sight.
With the way this book ended, I feel like there’s a high chance that this could turn into a series — at least, I hope so! I’d definitely read about Justine/Georgette/Jerry/Paul’s next adventure.
“You can’t afford to ignore everything going on around you. You can’t afford to ignore anything. You have to see everything around you, all the time.”
“And if you do decide you want him, do not be fooled into believing that you must want him forever. At every juncture, you must ask yourself whether he is worth what you’ve sacrificed to be with him. And make no mistake, there is always a sacrifice for both parties.”
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
The Traitor Beside Her releases June 6, 2023
This historical mystery hooked me from start to end.
Readers that enjoy WW2 settings, undercover work, traitors/spies, decrypting coded messages, secrets, female friendship, and statements such as “trust no one” will for sure like this book!
Set in Arlington during one week in December in 1944, we meet Justine, whose task is to determine who among the coders in Room 117 is a traitor. But mere minutes into her first day, her disguise is busted by a longtime family friend. With quick thinking from their government team, her best friend Georgette gets reassigned as her roommate, and takes over the false identity of Samantha.
This had exciting elements of purses with false bottoms for hidden compartments, a tiny camera built into a handheld matchbox, pens and pencils disguised to hide a functioning blade, a gun with a singular .22 bullet, and a chamber with pepper spray.
I really enjoyed how we didn’t just get the narration of the main character Justine, but also had perspectives scattered throughout of most of the secondary characters. It allowed this to be well-rounded and gave the reader the opportunity to piece together clues from all angles.
I was expecting a bit more detail or incorporation of actual decrypting of messages/codes, but overall I was quite satisfied with the progression of the story and how everything wrapped up and was revealed. Sometimes the best kept secrets are hidden in plain sight.
With the way this book ended, I feel like there’s a high chance that this could turn into a series — at least, I hope so! I’d definitely read about Justine/Georgette/Jerry/Paul’s next adventure.
“You can’t afford to ignore everything going on around you. You can’t afford to ignore anything. You have to see everything around you, all the time.”
“And if you do decide you want him, do not be fooled into believing that you must want him forever. At every juncture, you must ask yourself whether he is worth what you’ve sacrificed to be with him. And make no mistake, there is always a sacrifice for both parties.”
July 5, 2023
This book read like it was written by a very young adult or maybe meant to be read by young adults. The conversations and thoughts of the characters read as immature writing. I finished to the end to find out the mystery of who the traitor was, and that part ended up surprising me. But the author sealed the deal for disliking the book entirely when she put an out of nowhere reference to a lesbian relationship between two side characters. It was unnecessary, and it just affirmed that I really didn’t care for this book at all.
October 4, 2023
Amongst hundreds of people attempting to decipher German codes, Justine Byrne attempts to blend in. But she is not there to figure out what the Germans are doing. She is there to find out who amongst them is a traitor, passing along classified information. Secrets from Arlington Hall in the hands of the wrong person could cause the deaths of thousands of people, and it is up to Justine, and her friend Georgette, to find and stop the traitor before it is too late.
However, it is not just a traitor that Justine must uncover. Women are going missing from Arlington Hall, and no one is entirely sure what happened to them. With her own life in danger, and the outcome of the Allies resting on her shoulders, Justine cannot afford to slip up and blow her cover. And she is in for a rough time.
I loved Justine’s character. She is brave, headstrong, and particularly stubborn – she refuses to allow herself to fail and strives to succeed in everything she puts her hand to. To fail is to let people down, and she can’t bear to do that. I also liked Georgette, for she seems like a good friend to Justine, and to have someone close nearby during such an operation certainly allowed a small sense of relief that there was someone else present who knew what was going on. To trust no one is very difficult indeed, for not knowing who could be trusted and who couldn’t meant that I could never grow very close to any of the characters, other than Justine. Even those who seem perfectly nice could be hiding a massive secret, and I found myself suspecting everyone, even if they gave me no reason to. The work of a spy seems to be very isolating, being unable to share your secrets with anyone for fear of what might happen, and I truly felt for Justine as she tries her hardest to keep people alive, and find the traitor before it is too late.
While I think everyone is aware of everything that happened at Bletchley Park in England, for there have been a lot of books and movies based on Alan Turing and the Enigma, I personally had never heard of Arlington Hall, or even really considered that there would be codebreakers in America as well. The historical detailing in this novel is truly fascinating, and you can read without needing to know the history and learn as you read while remaining truly immersed in the story. The author has done a fantastic job at creating a book you can thoroughly enjoy while staying true to historical facts and encompassing the story within the past.
This is a crime mystery novel in a historical setting, and Justine comes across as a World War II James Bond at times. She infiltrates dangerous settings and works to get people on her side while trying to uncover the truth. She even has her very own Q moment, and is given a collection of gadgets to keep her safe. That such items existed is something I never knew, and I found it incredibly interesting to know that they did. I especially liked finding out about the Stinger pen gun, a small firearm disguised as a pen, and small enough to go unnoticed in a handbag or pocket. While WWII was not, in the grand scheme of things, that long ago, technology has advanced dramatically since the 1940s, and that items such as the Stinger had been invented and were used during the war certainly captured my attention. It just goes to show that you will never know everything about an era of history, no matter how many books you read! There is always something new to learn about!
This book sounds intriguing from the blurb, but once you actually start reading it, it is absolutely enthralling. I reached page 20 and then somehow made it to page 250 without realising how much time had passed. This is the kind of book that, once you start reading it, you can’t put it down. I was instantly drawn into Justine’s world, trying desperately to figure out who the traitor could be. This is a book I fell asleep reading, as I couldn’t bear to stop reading. It is thrilling, exciting, and about an era I love, but about something I know little about. To enjoy a WWII novel, but from a perspective I had never encountered before, was refreshing, and I absolutely loved reading it.
However, it is not just a traitor that Justine must uncover. Women are going missing from Arlington Hall, and no one is entirely sure what happened to them. With her own life in danger, and the outcome of the Allies resting on her shoulders, Justine cannot afford to slip up and blow her cover. And she is in for a rough time.
I loved Justine’s character. She is brave, headstrong, and particularly stubborn – she refuses to allow herself to fail and strives to succeed in everything she puts her hand to. To fail is to let people down, and she can’t bear to do that. I also liked Georgette, for she seems like a good friend to Justine, and to have someone close nearby during such an operation certainly allowed a small sense of relief that there was someone else present who knew what was going on. To trust no one is very difficult indeed, for not knowing who could be trusted and who couldn’t meant that I could never grow very close to any of the characters, other than Justine. Even those who seem perfectly nice could be hiding a massive secret, and I found myself suspecting everyone, even if they gave me no reason to. The work of a spy seems to be very isolating, being unable to share your secrets with anyone for fear of what might happen, and I truly felt for Justine as she tries her hardest to keep people alive, and find the traitor before it is too late.
While I think everyone is aware of everything that happened at Bletchley Park in England, for there have been a lot of books and movies based on Alan Turing and the Enigma, I personally had never heard of Arlington Hall, or even really considered that there would be codebreakers in America as well. The historical detailing in this novel is truly fascinating, and you can read without needing to know the history and learn as you read while remaining truly immersed in the story. The author has done a fantastic job at creating a book you can thoroughly enjoy while staying true to historical facts and encompassing the story within the past.
This is a crime mystery novel in a historical setting, and Justine comes across as a World War II James Bond at times. She infiltrates dangerous settings and works to get people on her side while trying to uncover the truth. She even has her very own Q moment, and is given a collection of gadgets to keep her safe. That such items existed is something I never knew, and I found it incredibly interesting to know that they did. I especially liked finding out about the Stinger pen gun, a small firearm disguised as a pen, and small enough to go unnoticed in a handbag or pocket. While WWII was not, in the grand scheme of things, that long ago, technology has advanced dramatically since the 1940s, and that items such as the Stinger had been invented and were used during the war certainly captured my attention. It just goes to show that you will never know everything about an era of history, no matter how many books you read! There is always something new to learn about!
This book sounds intriguing from the blurb, but once you actually start reading it, it is absolutely enthralling. I reached page 20 and then somehow made it to page 250 without realising how much time had passed. This is the kind of book that, once you start reading it, you can’t put it down. I was instantly drawn into Justine’s world, trying desperately to figure out who the traitor could be. This is a book I fell asleep reading, as I couldn’t bear to stop reading. It is thrilling, exciting, and about an era I love, but about something I know little about. To enjoy a WWII novel, but from a perspective I had never encountered before, was refreshing, and I absolutely loved reading it.
August 8, 2023
We are thrown straight into the action when we find Justine Byrne, our main protagonist, working undercover at a steelworks. She's a fairly new recruit, sent to uncover secret plots. But when she reports a suspicious scene, she's in for a surprise.
Soon after, she is sent on a new mission, to Arlington Hall, the base where every day thousands of coded messages are decoded by a brainy team of workers. But it appears, there's a spy – and murderer – in their midst, selling secrets to the enemy and removing anyone in their way.
On her arrival, Justine – despite her disguise as a drab young woman who arrived from the countryside to do her bit for the war as a secretary – is immediately recognised by an old friend of her academic parents, and with her cover blown, she starts working for the old scientist. As a result, her friend and co-undercover agent, Georgette, takes up her original place.
Soon, the young women find plenty of suspects, but without any proof, their hands are tied. Jerry, another member of their team, is also brought in, to keep an eye on them and their safety, and through Jerry, Justine manages to smuggle important details to their boss, Paul, a man with two faces, who she feels drawn to, despite his, at times, rather cold, professional persona.
But soon, more girls disappear, and a renewed sense of urgency pushes Justine and Georgette on to take greater risks. When Justine herself comes under attack, the team go on the offensive. But will they secure the spy before another woman loses her life? Find out!
From the start, we find that Justine is a resourceful young woman, not lacking in courage or ingenuity. She has her moments of uncertainty, which makes her human, and we also see glimpses of her growing feelings for Paul, her boss at the agency. She is a likeable character, honest (despite living a lie, something she berates herself for at times), and reliable. But also not adverse to taking risks, which lead her into trouble.
Georgette, her sidekick, is from a different social background, and a far more earthier character than Justine. She's very down to earth. This leads to interesting exchanges between the young women. Georgette feels drawn to wheelchair-bound Jerry.
Jerry and Paul are the other members of the immediate team, with Paul being the boss – the connector between the team members and the top of the agency. We see him under pressure, which is portrayed very well, as agencies have to show results.
There is a plethora of other characters, at Arlington Hall. Some become friendly, others not so. It can be a little confusing, keeping track of who is who, and I had to retrace my steps occasionally, especially when the plot refers to the many women working on the site. But this doesn't detract from the overall story, which twists its way to a satisfying – and surprising – conclusion.
The setting itself is realistic, and we get a true sense of the important site, the necessary security, the heightened sense of secrecy – even between friends – and the life spent uncovering messages that may be depressing, shocking, and even dangerous. There is a strong, realistic spectre of war hanging over the institution and their inhabitants, although they do try to have fun occasionally. But there's always the niggling reminder that, in other parts of the world, people die that very moment.
The Traitor Beside Her is an intriguing, clever murder mystery set in the dangerous world of decryption and spies. It got me hooked right from the beginning, and I read on deep into the night.
Oh, and I do hope we'll see more of Justine and her brilliant team in future...
Note: I received an ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
Soon after, she is sent on a new mission, to Arlington Hall, the base where every day thousands of coded messages are decoded by a brainy team of workers. But it appears, there's a spy – and murderer – in their midst, selling secrets to the enemy and removing anyone in their way.
On her arrival, Justine – despite her disguise as a drab young woman who arrived from the countryside to do her bit for the war as a secretary – is immediately recognised by an old friend of her academic parents, and with her cover blown, she starts working for the old scientist. As a result, her friend and co-undercover agent, Georgette, takes up her original place.
Soon, the young women find plenty of suspects, but without any proof, their hands are tied. Jerry, another member of their team, is also brought in, to keep an eye on them and their safety, and through Jerry, Justine manages to smuggle important details to their boss, Paul, a man with two faces, who she feels drawn to, despite his, at times, rather cold, professional persona.
But soon, more girls disappear, and a renewed sense of urgency pushes Justine and Georgette on to take greater risks. When Justine herself comes under attack, the team go on the offensive. But will they secure the spy before another woman loses her life? Find out!
From the start, we find that Justine is a resourceful young woman, not lacking in courage or ingenuity. She has her moments of uncertainty, which makes her human, and we also see glimpses of her growing feelings for Paul, her boss at the agency. She is a likeable character, honest (despite living a lie, something she berates herself for at times), and reliable. But also not adverse to taking risks, which lead her into trouble.
Georgette, her sidekick, is from a different social background, and a far more earthier character than Justine. She's very down to earth. This leads to interesting exchanges between the young women. Georgette feels drawn to wheelchair-bound Jerry.
Jerry and Paul are the other members of the immediate team, with Paul being the boss – the connector between the team members and the top of the agency. We see him under pressure, which is portrayed very well, as agencies have to show results.
There is a plethora of other characters, at Arlington Hall. Some become friendly, others not so. It can be a little confusing, keeping track of who is who, and I had to retrace my steps occasionally, especially when the plot refers to the many women working on the site. But this doesn't detract from the overall story, which twists its way to a satisfying – and surprising – conclusion.
The setting itself is realistic, and we get a true sense of the important site, the necessary security, the heightened sense of secrecy – even between friends – and the life spent uncovering messages that may be depressing, shocking, and even dangerous. There is a strong, realistic spectre of war hanging over the institution and their inhabitants, although they do try to have fun occasionally. But there's always the niggling reminder that, in other parts of the world, people die that very moment.
The Traitor Beside Her is an intriguing, clever murder mystery set in the dangerous world of decryption and spies. It got me hooked right from the beginning, and I read on deep into the night.
Oh, and I do hope we'll see more of Justine and her brilliant team in future...
Note: I received an ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
June 6, 2023
A wonderful second entry in this series!
The Physicists’ Daughter was one of my four or five most favorite mysteries of 2022, so I’ve been eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series, The Traitor Beside Her. And it doesn’t disappoint!
All of the same elements that I loved in the first book are still there in this one, however now Justine and her best friend, Georgette, are official employees of the US government. So rather than having to figure out that something is wrong on their own, this time they’ve been sent on purpose to suss out a suspected spy among the codebreakers at Arlington Hall. The stakes are high, since, as you might guess, a traitor in the midst of the operations there would have access to highly sensitive information that could change the course of the war.
At first it seems as if the entire mission might go awry on the first day, when Justine is recognized by a close friend of her parents, and her carefully developed cover story is blown. But she quickly adapts, and eventually her sharp brain and analytical skills, and Georgette’s own home-grown skills (duck hunting with her brothers!) and down-to-earth way of looking at things, enable them to piece together what is going on. And there was a very nice twist at the end that I didn’t see coming, which is always fun.
Even more enjoyable, however is the detailed and fascinating picture of WWII life on the US home front that author Mary Anna Evans again paints. When reading The Physicists’ Daughter, I got so fascinated with the background that I searched and read up on the Higgins Boat Factory. In A Traitor Beside Her, it was the quirky lives of the codebreakers themselves that are central to the story – a group of (mostly) young women, often on their own for the first time, with odd talents for math, or languages, or puzzles – or all three. Having read Liza Mundy’s excellent non-fiction account of the US codebreaking program, Code Girls, not too long ago, everything just felt so right. And also as with The Physicists’ Daughter, I felt a personal connection of sorts: in this case, my grandfather and great-uncle were two rare anglo Navajo speakers, who worked with the Navajo code-talkers during the war, so I could remember their stories while I was reading about Georgette’s Choctaw-speaking brothers doing the same thing.
All-in-all, The Traitor Beside Her is a totally worthy follow-on to The Physicists’ Daughter, and I highly recommend it for anyone who likes historical mysteries, and even folks who just like historical novels. And there’s a nice little hook at the end, so hopefully the next book in the series will be coming soon. I’ll be waiting with fingers crossed!
And finally my thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the advance review copy...
The Physicists’ Daughter was one of my four or five most favorite mysteries of 2022, so I’ve been eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series, The Traitor Beside Her. And it doesn’t disappoint!
All of the same elements that I loved in the first book are still there in this one, however now Justine and her best friend, Georgette, are official employees of the US government. So rather than having to figure out that something is wrong on their own, this time they’ve been sent on purpose to suss out a suspected spy among the codebreakers at Arlington Hall. The stakes are high, since, as you might guess, a traitor in the midst of the operations there would have access to highly sensitive information that could change the course of the war.
At first it seems as if the entire mission might go awry on the first day, when Justine is recognized by a close friend of her parents, and her carefully developed cover story is blown. But she quickly adapts, and eventually her sharp brain and analytical skills, and Georgette’s own home-grown skills (duck hunting with her brothers!) and down-to-earth way of looking at things, enable them to piece together what is going on. And there was a very nice twist at the end that I didn’t see coming, which is always fun.
Even more enjoyable, however is the detailed and fascinating picture of WWII life on the US home front that author Mary Anna Evans again paints. When reading The Physicists’ Daughter, I got so fascinated with the background that I searched and read up on the Higgins Boat Factory. In A Traitor Beside Her, it was the quirky lives of the codebreakers themselves that are central to the story – a group of (mostly) young women, often on their own for the first time, with odd talents for math, or languages, or puzzles – or all three. Having read Liza Mundy’s excellent non-fiction account of the US codebreaking program, Code Girls, not too long ago, everything just felt so right. And also as with The Physicists’ Daughter, I felt a personal connection of sorts: in this case, my grandfather and great-uncle were two rare anglo Navajo speakers, who worked with the Navajo code-talkers during the war, so I could remember their stories while I was reading about Georgette’s Choctaw-speaking brothers doing the same thing.
All-in-all, The Traitor Beside Her is a totally worthy follow-on to The Physicists’ Daughter, and I highly recommend it for anyone who likes historical mysteries, and even folks who just like historical novels. And there’s a nice little hook at the end, so hopefully the next book in the series will be coming soon. I’ll be waiting with fingers crossed!
And finally my thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the advance review copy...
August 16, 2023
The characters were well drawn, with the plot interesting and - from a Brit's point of view - different. I'm familiar with the code breaking during WWII at England's Bletchley Park (The Enigma Machine, for instance,) but was entirely unaware that something similar was in operation in the USA, although stopping to think about it - of course there would have been! The solving of who was the traitor in this story kept me guessing, although I did suspect the right person, but this wasn't confirmed until the end. The different location of the USA, and the setting made a change from the usual 'whodunit' of a cozy murder mystery, although murder was the background to this story, the spying and who was the traitor was more to the fore.
The mechanics of being placed into a situation as an undercover spy was interesting. I've no idea how accurate using miniature guns designed as pens or a camera resembling a matchbox in the 1940s was, but the accuracy element didn't really matter as the story was good enough to be engrossing without worrying about historical detail.
There were a couple of things I wasn't sure about - although these didn't spoil the story, but might cause a bit of a blip for some readers. How did Jerry manage to get about so very easily in a wheelchair in 1944? And my main 'puzzle' (sorry, slight spoiler, I'll try to keep to a minimum,) was the muddle over an undercover person's identity papers. Er... when X had to hurriedly change the arranged plans the identity papers, background story, clothing etc., were very neatly swapped to someone else - this was plausible, but there didn't seem to be any mention of new paperwork provided for the first character. (Or did I miss something?) This was a war period and a highly secure intelligence centre, so what happened about ID etc? And would a top chap in charge of more or less the whole thing really have been at the main gate shouting out someone's name? A small blip, but it has still left me wondering.
The introduction of a lesbian relationship wasn't really necessary I don't think, as it detracted a little bit from the main story, and was the romantic element for the lead females just a little bit too corny? Maybe, maybe not.
Some scenes interrupted the pace of the story and were not needed, and some elements were, perhaps, slightly far-fetched, but overall, this was a good story. I didn't realise that this was part of a series, but The Traitor Beside Her works as a standalone.
4 stars * * * *
The mechanics of being placed into a situation as an undercover spy was interesting. I've no idea how accurate using miniature guns designed as pens or a camera resembling a matchbox in the 1940s was, but the accuracy element didn't really matter as the story was good enough to be engrossing without worrying about historical detail.
There were a couple of things I wasn't sure about - although these didn't spoil the story, but might cause a bit of a blip for some readers. How did Jerry manage to get about so very easily in a wheelchair in 1944? And my main 'puzzle' (sorry, slight spoiler, I'll try to keep to a minimum,) was the muddle over an undercover person's identity papers. Er... when X had to hurriedly change the arranged plans the identity papers, background story, clothing etc., were very neatly swapped to someone else - this was plausible, but there didn't seem to be any mention of new paperwork provided for the first character. (Or did I miss something?) This was a war period and a highly secure intelligence centre, so what happened about ID etc? And would a top chap in charge of more or less the whole thing really have been at the main gate shouting out someone's name? A small blip, but it has still left me wondering.
The introduction of a lesbian relationship wasn't really necessary I don't think, as it detracted a little bit from the main story, and was the romantic element for the lead females just a little bit too corny? Maybe, maybe not.
Some scenes interrupted the pace of the story and were not needed, and some elements were, perhaps, slightly far-fetched, but overall, this was a good story. I didn't realise that this was part of a series, but The Traitor Beside Her works as a standalone.
4 stars * * * *
April 13, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
"The Traitor Beside Her" by Mary Anna Evans, narrated by Kimberly M. Wetherell, is a gripping historical fiction novel that plunges readers into the tense atmosphere of World War II espionage. Set within the walls of Arlington Hall, a former women's college turned U.S. Army code-breaking facility, the story follows Justine Byrne, a woman tasked with an almost insurmountable mission: to uncover a traitor among the ranks of America's brightest minds.
Evans masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, where every character is a potential suspect, and trust is a luxury Justine can ill afford. The narrative is rich with historical detail, immersing the reader in the era's social and political nuances. The backdrop of war and the critical role of code-breakers provide a compelling stage for the unfolding drama.
Justine is a character of remarkable depth and complexity. Her sharp intellect and unwavering determination are matched only by her vulnerability in a world where a single misstep could be fatal. The supporting cast, including Justine's best friend Georgette, a Choctaw code talker in training, adds layers of diversity and perspective to the story.
Kimberly M. Wetherell's narration brings an added dimension to the experience, with a performance that captures the urgency and emotional undertones of the narrative. Her voice becomes the conduit through which the tension and stakes of Justine's mission are felt, making the audiobook a captivating listen.
"The Traitor Beside Her" is more than just a spy novel; it's a testament to the unsung heroes of war, the intellects who fought battles in the shadows with pencils and papers. Evans's novel is a thrilling ride that doesn't just entertain but also honors the legacy of these individuals. It's a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery alike, offering a unique glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of wartime history.
In summary, Mary Anna Evans delivers a powerful story of courage, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth. "The Traitor Beside Her" is a novel that will stay with you long after the final page is turned, a poignant reminder of the silent wars waged behind enemy lines and the personal sacrifices made in the name of freedom.
"The Traitor Beside Her" by Mary Anna Evans, narrated by Kimberly M. Wetherell, is a gripping historical fiction novel that plunges readers into the tense atmosphere of World War II espionage. Set within the walls of Arlington Hall, a former women's college turned U.S. Army code-breaking facility, the story follows Justine Byrne, a woman tasked with an almost insurmountable mission: to uncover a traitor among the ranks of America's brightest minds.
Evans masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, where every character is a potential suspect, and trust is a luxury Justine can ill afford. The narrative is rich with historical detail, immersing the reader in the era's social and political nuances. The backdrop of war and the critical role of code-breakers provide a compelling stage for the unfolding drama.
Justine is a character of remarkable depth and complexity. Her sharp intellect and unwavering determination are matched only by her vulnerability in a world where a single misstep could be fatal. The supporting cast, including Justine's best friend Georgette, a Choctaw code talker in training, adds layers of diversity and perspective to the story.
Kimberly M. Wetherell's narration brings an added dimension to the experience, with a performance that captures the urgency and emotional undertones of the narrative. Her voice becomes the conduit through which the tension and stakes of Justine's mission are felt, making the audiobook a captivating listen.
"The Traitor Beside Her" is more than just a spy novel; it's a testament to the unsung heroes of war, the intellects who fought battles in the shadows with pencils and papers. Evans's novel is a thrilling ride that doesn't just entertain but also honors the legacy of these individuals. It's a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery alike, offering a unique glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of wartime history.
In summary, Mary Anna Evans delivers a powerful story of courage, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth. "The Traitor Beside Her" is a novel that will stay with you long after the final page is turned, a poignant reminder of the silent wars waged behind enemy lines and the personal sacrifices made in the name of freedom.
September 13, 2023
The USA's secret program of cryptoanalysis in Virginia toward the end of WWII is explored in The Traitor Beside Her by Mary Anna Evans. A physicist's daughter, Justine Byrne plays a dangerous game of espionage. On the surface, she has been recruited to decode communication from various Axis powers as Allied forces advance on the front lines toward Germany. However, her primary objective is to find the traitor among the brilliant decoders at Arlington Hall who are deciphering German codes that could steer the course of the war. She cannot trust anyone as she investigates who could be the potential spy. One woman on site has already been killed and others have gone missing. The suspense builds as she hones on potential suspects, risking her life.
Mary Anna Evans has written a unique, smoothly-written novel with elements of suspense, romance, and friendship. The story offers the unique perspective of a young, somewhat naive woman thrust into the midst of espionage with minimal training. The story is told primarily from Justine's perspective, but other points of view are used to move the story forward. Justine can only confide in Georgette, her best friend and fluent speaker of Choctaw, who is suddenly brought into the mission. Nora is another intriguing, eccentric character who can see the colors of the music she composes and plays.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the novel is to learn about the secret decoding processes that could impact the war as much as the military forces on the battlefield. Each suspect has an interesting backstory that could explain why he or she chooses to betray his/her country. However, the pacing sometimes slows down when the story delves into romance and everyday conversations of women living at Arlington Hall.
Readers who enjoy learning more about covert operations that supported the behind-the-scenes war effort of Allies during WWII should enjoy reading The Traitor Beside Her, told from the perspective of a precocious, young woman thrown into the jaws of espionage.
Mary Anna Evans has written a unique, smoothly-written novel with elements of suspense, romance, and friendship. The story offers the unique perspective of a young, somewhat naive woman thrust into the midst of espionage with minimal training. The story is told primarily from Justine's perspective, but other points of view are used to move the story forward. Justine can only confide in Georgette, her best friend and fluent speaker of Choctaw, who is suddenly brought into the mission. Nora is another intriguing, eccentric character who can see the colors of the music she composes and plays.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the novel is to learn about the secret decoding processes that could impact the war as much as the military forces on the battlefield. Each suspect has an interesting backstory that could explain why he or she chooses to betray his/her country. However, the pacing sometimes slows down when the story delves into romance and everyday conversations of women living at Arlington Hall.
Readers who enjoy learning more about covert operations that supported the behind-the-scenes war effort of Allies during WWII should enjoy reading The Traitor Beside Her, told from the perspective of a precocious, young woman thrown into the jaws of espionage.
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