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Secret Lives Mysteries #2
Dangerous Women
"A bewitching political thriller."—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
"Ethel looks like Marple but acts like Marlow." —Kirkus Reviews?
In a case deciding the future of clean energy, everything hinges on how the chief justice of Supreme Court will lean. DANGEROUS WOMEN stirs up the perfect cocktail of ingenious spy-craft and political intrigue of Thomas Perry's The Old Man brightened with the charming, uncanny energy of Killers of a Certain Age. This urgent, cleverly plotted high stakes thriller is set in motion by botched attack on two law clerks leaving one dead and the other in a coma. The ensuing cover up leaves a string of bodies and too many players at cross-purposes. It also leaves Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter with a target on her back.
We'll need an off the grid hero with friends in high enter retired FBI agent-turned-boardinghouse landlady, Ethel Fiona Crestwater (legend) and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper (sidekick). Although in her mid-seventies, Ethel is no bumbling amateur sleuth; she's a seasoned pro with razor-sharp instincts and Bond-worthy skills. College-aged Jesse brings tech savvy and boundless enthusiasm, along with an innate talent for intrigue. Together, the unlikely duo will face malicious back-stabbing political sycophants, conniving lobbyists, and a motivated assassin bent on removing the Chief Justice from the equation—along with Ethel, who stands defiantly between the hitman and his payday.
"Ethel looks like Marple but acts like Marlow." —Kirkus Reviews?
In a case deciding the future of clean energy, everything hinges on how the chief justice of Supreme Court will lean. DANGEROUS WOMEN stirs up the perfect cocktail of ingenious spy-craft and political intrigue of Thomas Perry's The Old Man brightened with the charming, uncanny energy of Killers of a Certain Age. This urgent, cleverly plotted high stakes thriller is set in motion by botched attack on two law clerks leaving one dead and the other in a coma. The ensuing cover up leaves a string of bodies and too many players at cross-purposes. It also leaves Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter with a target on her back.
We'll need an off the grid hero with friends in high enter retired FBI agent-turned-boardinghouse landlady, Ethel Fiona Crestwater (legend) and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper (sidekick). Although in her mid-seventies, Ethel is no bumbling amateur sleuth; she's a seasoned pro with razor-sharp instincts and Bond-worthy skills. College-aged Jesse brings tech savvy and boundless enthusiasm, along with an innate talent for intrigue. Together, the unlikely duo will face malicious back-stabbing political sycophants, conniving lobbyists, and a motivated assassin bent on removing the Chief Justice from the equation—along with Ethel, who stands defiantly between the hitman and his payday.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2023
103 people are currently reading
698 people want to read
About the author
Mark de Castrique
29 books166 followersMark de Castrique is an author, playwright, public speaker, and television producer living in Charlotte.
Through his company MARK et al., he writes, shoots, and edits projects for a variety of clients.
His work has earned CLIO, TELLY, and EMMY awards.
Mark has scripted stories aired on PBS and commercial network affiliates, as well as created video presentations for major corporations.
Through his company MARK et al., he writes, shoots, and edits projects for a variety of clients.
His work has earned CLIO, TELLY, and EMMY awards.
Mark has scripted stories aired on PBS and commercial network affiliates, as well as created video presentations for major corporations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
December 11, 2023
Book: 4.5⭐
Audio Narration: 3.5⭐
A botched mugging leaves one Supreme Court law clerk dead and another seriously injured. The murdered law clerk Robert Finley had been working for Supreme Court Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter who is scheduled to cast the deciding vote for the verdict in a controversial lithium mining case that has several influential people desperate to protect their own interests. Missing from the scene of the crime was Robert’s backpack with important notes on the case. The injured law clerk Brooke Chaplin is the niece of Detective Frank Mancini of the Arlington Police Department and a tenant at the boardinghouse for government employees run by Former FBI Agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater in Arlington, Virginia. Frank is a former boarder and friend of Ethel’s which prompts her to offer to help in the investigation. Joining Ethel in her efforts is her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, who also resides in the same boarding house and is a university student.
Though retired, seventy-five-year-old Ethel is sharp and maintains a strong network of past and present highly ranked officers from different branches of law enforcement ( “Ethel’s Army” ). As the bodies continue to pile up, Ethel suspects that not only are people within the system involved, but also the Chief Justice just might be the next target. What follows is a complex web of murder, corruption and conspiracy and Ethel will leave no stone unturned to help unravel the mystery behind the attack and murder and identify the person/people who are targeting the Chief Justice.
With its interesting cast of characters, well-structured plot and plenty of humor, Dangerous Women by Mark de Castrique is an intriguing and entertaining read. I loved Ethel and her resourcefulness. Though there are several characters in the story, the plot is not difficult to follow and at no point did I lose interest. The author incorporates several relevant themes such as political corruption, climate change, clean energy, environmental protection and preservation of land into a tightly woven plot. The pacing does falter in parts but not so much that detracts from the overall reading experience. If you don’t mind a little suspension of disbelief, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Overall, I thought this was a worthy addition to the Secret Lives Mysteries series. I can’t wait for the next in the series!
I combined my reading with the audiobook narrated by Patrick Lawlor, which made for a decent immersion reading experience. Given the large cast of characters, I did feel that the audio experience could have been enhanced had there been more than one narrator.
Please note that though this book is the second in a series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the digital copy and ALC of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Dangerous Women was published on October 24, 2023.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Audio Narration: 3.5⭐
A botched mugging leaves one Supreme Court law clerk dead and another seriously injured. The murdered law clerk Robert Finley had been working for Supreme Court Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter who is scheduled to cast the deciding vote for the verdict in a controversial lithium mining case that has several influential people desperate to protect their own interests. Missing from the scene of the crime was Robert’s backpack with important notes on the case. The injured law clerk Brooke Chaplin is the niece of Detective Frank Mancini of the Arlington Police Department and a tenant at the boardinghouse for government employees run by Former FBI Agent Ethel Fiona Crestwater in Arlington, Virginia. Frank is a former boarder and friend of Ethel’s which prompts her to offer to help in the investigation. Joining Ethel in her efforts is her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, who also resides in the same boarding house and is a university student.
Though retired, seventy-five-year-old Ethel is sharp and maintains a strong network of past and present highly ranked officers from different branches of law enforcement ( “Ethel’s Army” ). As the bodies continue to pile up, Ethel suspects that not only are people within the system involved, but also the Chief Justice just might be the next target. What follows is a complex web of murder, corruption and conspiracy and Ethel will leave no stone unturned to help unravel the mystery behind the attack and murder and identify the person/people who are targeting the Chief Justice.
With its interesting cast of characters, well-structured plot and plenty of humor, Dangerous Women by Mark de Castrique is an intriguing and entertaining read. I loved Ethel and her resourcefulness. Though there are several characters in the story, the plot is not difficult to follow and at no point did I lose interest. The author incorporates several relevant themes such as political corruption, climate change, clean energy, environmental protection and preservation of land into a tightly woven plot. The pacing does falter in parts but not so much that detracts from the overall reading experience. If you don’t mind a little suspension of disbelief, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Overall, I thought this was a worthy addition to the Secret Lives Mysteries series. I can’t wait for the next in the series!
I combined my reading with the audiobook narrated by Patrick Lawlor, which made for a decent immersion reading experience. Given the large cast of characters, I did feel that the audio experience could have been enhanced had there been more than one narrator.
Please note that though this book is the second in a series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the digital copy and ALC of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Dangerous Women was published on October 24, 2023.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
September 25, 2023
***-1/2 stars rounded to 4 stars:
This was an interesting read on audio about political corruption in the capital. It highlights the intelligent and savvy, main character, a 75 year old power house of a female, retired FBI agent, by the name of Ethel Fiona Crestwater. Along with her cousin doubled and removed, they go after the bad guys and some of the writing will make you chuckle aloud.
All of the characters were narrated by Patrick Lawlor and I felt it would have been much better in a woman’s voice. Just my opinion.
I’d like to thank Dreamscape Media, the author, and NetGalley for this cozy, exciting, thriller.
This was an interesting read on audio about political corruption in the capital. It highlights the intelligent and savvy, main character, a 75 year old power house of a female, retired FBI agent, by the name of Ethel Fiona Crestwater. Along with her cousin doubled and removed, they go after the bad guys and some of the writing will make you chuckle aloud.
All of the characters were narrated by Patrick Lawlor and I felt it would have been much better in a woman’s voice. Just my opinion.
I’d like to thank Dreamscape Media, the author, and NetGalley for this cozy, exciting, thriller.
October 20, 2023
A day later I still don't really know how I feel about this book. It feels like a 2.75 star read, but I rounded up to three stars. The book is the second book in a series, but can be read as a standalone.
It started off as a fun read with an elderly lady, who's an ex-FBI-agent and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed (I'm not gonna explain that, it is done several times in the book). I am really digging this trend of old people solving murders, so when I started this I really thought that nothing could go wrong.
Sadly, after the 30% mark the story started to feel a bit boring and slow up until the 50% mark. After that it picked up again, but it just wasn't the same as the first few chapters. What did not work for me were the many names and institutions, it was all a bit much, and not one of the characters was developed completly, they were all there and mentioned, but they did not feel like real characters. Also most of them just had little parts in the storytelling, yet were so important for the plot.
Also by the time we came towards the ending there was not really a big dramatic ending, it was written in a way that makes me feel like the ending should have surprised me, yet it didn't. It just had become predictable and also jumped a bit through the story to a sudden finale.
It started off as a fun read with an elderly lady, who's an ex-FBI-agent and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed (I'm not gonna explain that, it is done several times in the book). I am really digging this trend of old people solving murders, so when I started this I really thought that nothing could go wrong.
Sadly, after the 30% mark the story started to feel a bit boring and slow up until the 50% mark. After that it picked up again, but it just wasn't the same as the first few chapters. What did not work for me were the many names and institutions, it was all a bit much, and not one of the characters was developed completly, they were all there and mentioned, but they did not feel like real characters. Also most of them just had little parts in the storytelling, yet were so important for the plot.
Also by the time we came towards the ending there was not really a big dramatic ending, it was written in a way that makes me feel like the ending should have surprised me, yet it didn't. It just had become predictable and also jumped a bit through the story to a sudden finale.
June 21, 2023
When I saw that Mark de Castrique had penned a sequel to Secret Lives, I was determined to beg, borrow or steal it to read it as soon as possible. Thank you, Poisoned Pen Press, for granting me an advanced review copy and saving me from a life of crime!
We see the return of 75-year-old Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a spy turned landlady, and her lodger and double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper. The two distant relatives teamed up to solve the assassination of a Secret Service agent in Secret Lives; this time they’re hoping to find out who hired an assassin of a different sort.
The blurb compares Dangerous Women to Thomas Perry’s The Old Man and Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age. Balderdash! This engrossing sequel needs no comparison, and, for those who weren’t lucky enough to read Secret Lives, this page-turner stands alone. Needless to say at this point, but here goes: highly, highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review.
We see the return of 75-year-old Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a spy turned landlady, and her lodger and double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper. The two distant relatives teamed up to solve the assassination of a Secret Service agent in Secret Lives; this time they’re hoping to find out who hired an assassin of a different sort.
The blurb compares Dangerous Women to Thomas Perry’s The Old Man and Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age. Balderdash! This engrossing sequel needs no comparison, and, for those who weren’t lucky enough to read Secret Lives, this page-turner stands alone. Needless to say at this point, but here goes: highly, highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2023
I have never been disappointed by a book written by Mark de Castrique, and this continues to hold true for the second book in his new Secret Lives series, Dangerous Women. This is a fast-paced, intelligent political thriller filled with wit and a cast that makes me smile.
76-year-old Ethel Fiona Crestwater is the landlady of young FBI agents, and she has fierce maternal instincts when it comes to each and every one of her boarders. She swears by Ruth Bader Ginsberg's workout, and there's no end to the high-level contacts she's made over the years. In truth, she's a legend to people in the know. I'd say that Ethel's forgotten more than most of the current FBI agents will ever know... except that I don't think she's ever forgotten one single thing. Watching her work, and watching young Jesse learn from her, is a delight.
The environmental conundrum behind Dangerous Women is thought-provoking. "What environmental price do we pay to save the environment? What people do we harm in the process?" It is a question we inhabitants of Planet Earth will be forced to answer over and over again.
If you're in the mood for fast-paced excitement spear-headed by a brilliant mind, pick up Dangerous Women. I recommend reading the first book in the series, Secret Lives, because of the characters, but it's not strictly necessary in order for you to enjoy this second book.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
76-year-old Ethel Fiona Crestwater is the landlady of young FBI agents, and she has fierce maternal instincts when it comes to each and every one of her boarders. She swears by Ruth Bader Ginsberg's workout, and there's no end to the high-level contacts she's made over the years. In truth, she's a legend to people in the know. I'd say that Ethel's forgotten more than most of the current FBI agents will ever know... except that I don't think she's ever forgotten one single thing. Watching her work, and watching young Jesse learn from her, is a delight.
The environmental conundrum behind Dangerous Women is thought-provoking. "What environmental price do we pay to save the environment? What people do we harm in the process?" It is a question we inhabitants of Planet Earth will be forced to answer over and over again.
If you're in the mood for fast-paced excitement spear-headed by a brilliant mind, pick up Dangerous Women. I recommend reading the first book in the series, Secret Lives, because of the characters, but it's not strictly necessary in order for you to enjoy this second book.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
May 28, 2025
Although this is the second book in the series, it stands on its own well enough.
Ethel Crestwater, a retired FBI agent, and her double-cousin twice removed, investigate the attack on one of her lodgers. What seems to be a mugging gone wrong is soon discovered to be a plot involving the highest level in politics
This is a classic case of "over told". We are told in every other paragraph what a legend Ethel is, basically James Bond meets Miss Marple. Every high level expert in their field is willing, neigh falling over themselves to follow her wishes. The Director of the FBI, a Supreme Court Judge, Washing Police Detectives, you name it, they are on her fan club. It just became a bit eye rolling after a while.
Ethel Crestwater, a retired FBI agent, and her double-cousin twice removed, investigate the attack on one of her lodgers. What seems to be a mugging gone wrong is soon discovered to be a plot involving the highest level in politics
This is a classic case of "over told". We are told in every other paragraph what a legend Ethel is, basically James Bond meets Miss Marple. Every high level expert in their field is willing, neigh falling over themselves to follow her wishes. The Director of the FBI, a Supreme Court Judge, Washing Police Detectives, you name it, they are on her fan club. It just became a bit eye rolling after a while.
June 18, 2023
Having read and loved the first book in the series, Secret Lives, I was thrilled to get the opportunity to read an advance copy of the 2nd book, thanks to the publisher and Netgalley. I thought this one was great as well. It isn't necessary to read Secret Lives to enjoy Dangerous Women (although you'll want to). The heroine of the series, Ethel, is completely unlike the 75-year-olds one typically finds in cozy mysteries. As a former FBI agent, she's bright, insightful, clever and well-connected in Washington, D.C., and she hasn't lost her ability to defend herself and others. In this case, she becomes involved in unofficially investigating deaths and possible corruption related to the Supreme Court with the help of some of her "posse" from the previous book. I found the political and environmental issues raised very thought-provoking. The book is very exciting with lots of red herrings, and I enjoyed seeing how Ethel orchestrated solving the crimes. I think the books would be of equal appeal to both men and women, somewhat like the books of Daniel Silva. I highly recommend this book and its predecessor, and I look forward to the next case.
October 5, 2023
I am just delighted with this series! Installment #2 was just as fun as #1, with a new mystery and a good mix of new and returning characters. We're back with Ethel and her web of contacts, trying to figure out who wants information on an upcoming Supreme Court case and why. If you enjoyed Secret Lives, you'll like this one too. It's a political myster/thriller that isn't too intense and kind of feels like a cozy with a twist. I hope there's another installment coming!
Thank you to #NetGalley and #PoisonedPenPress for a free copy of Dangerous Women by Mark de Castrique. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #PoisonedPenPress for a free copy of Dangerous Women by Mark de Castrique. All opinions are my own.
July 5, 2023
An awesome entry into the elderly detective genre, this is really book # 2 (Book one is Secret Lives). Ethel Fiona Crestwater (legend) is a retired FBI running a rooming house in D.C. her assisted by her earnest double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper (sidekick). Ethel is still greatly connected in the spy world and sharp as a knife. This isn't your every day cozy as the duo take on the nasty side of politics and assist with protecting a. Supreme Court Justice and solving a murder. Highly Recommended!
#PoisonedPenPRess
#PoisonedPenPRess
November 16, 2023
Tremendously well done 2nd in a series on the tail of last year’s Secret Lives which introduced us to a cast of excellent lawmen/women in DC, especially the amazing Ethel Fiona Crestwater, ex FBI agent who has not let her retirement or her age stop her from getting involved in national intrigue and murder. This time the new female Supreme Court Justice is involved, as well as one of Ethel’s boarders, a clerk to another justice. Like the first one, this novel gives us a propelling sustained Pace, intricate Plot, varying Tone from contemplative to harrowing, and a well-realized Setting in suburban DC, Richmond, VA, and Miami. Again, procedural details enhance an already twisty, red-herring-laden plot as dialogue makes the pages turn. De Castrique gives us metropolitan DC police, FBI and Supreme Court Security involvement. And, again, it is rare to find a realistic implausible plot so well executed. Good explanations of cryptocurrency and finance blended into the narrative, as well as details of a environmental issues like fracking and lithium mining, Native American issues, how lobbying works, and the inner workings of the Supreme Court and the law. Great supporting CHs—new and old—and a great canine CH, too. If you enjoy older protagonists (Osman or Raybourn’s See Killers of a Certain Age) who still have their wits and abilities about them, or a combination of interagency intrigue like Otto Eskin’s thrillers, then give this series a try. I encourage you to begin with the first for CH continuity.
October 26, 2023
Dangerous Women is the second book in the Secret Lives series. Here we are reintroduced to Ethel Crestwater, a seventy five year old retired FBI agent and her double first cousin twice removed, Jesse Cooper as they investigate corruption in the Supreme Court.
I did find the introduction of so many new characters at the beginning of the book a little confusing and it was sometimes hard to remember who was part of which government agency but with the way the story flowed, this was cleared up quickly and it was soon easy to navigate who was doing what to solve the murders.
I really enjoyed this book! It was a short, easy read and the characters were interesting and very well written, especially Ethel who is the epitome of don’t judge a book by its cover.
Thank you to NetGalley, Poised Pen Press and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I did find the introduction of so many new characters at the beginning of the book a little confusing and it was sometimes hard to remember who was part of which government agency but with the way the story flowed, this was cleared up quickly and it was soon easy to navigate who was doing what to solve the murders.
I really enjoyed this book! It was a short, easy read and the characters were interesting and very well written, especially Ethel who is the epitome of don’t judge a book by its cover.
Thank you to NetGalley, Poised Pen Press and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 14, 2023
Ethel was an FBI agent even before they allowed women in, and also rented rooms in her large house to various law enforcement personnel. Now she's made two exceptions--one for her double-first cousin who's a student at American University, the other for a young clerk at the Supreme Court, who is the niece of one of her good friends. When the niece is attacked and her fellow clerk is murdered, Ethel calls in favors from the Secret Service, the FBI, and various police forces to investigate, protecting the Chief Justice, who is the deciding vote in a critical case involving lithium mining, a sinister lobbyist, and several US Senators.
April 26, 2024
This series is a delight! If you’re looking for a new cozy mystery, Ethel is here for you!
December 26, 2024
Copy provided by Ohio E Book Project
Appreciated that the author explained that Ethel was named after an older relative, which is why her name is a bit anachronistic. Enjoyed the book, but still didn't have enough of Ethel for my taste. Great book if you want lots of intrigue, murder, and conspiracies.
Appreciated that the author explained that Ethel was named after an older relative, which is why her name is a bit anachronistic. Enjoyed the book, but still didn't have enough of Ethel for my taste. Great book if you want lots of intrigue, murder, and conspiracies.
December 1, 2024
better than the first
This book was better than the first one in the series. I recommend it. It was very exciting and interesting to follow the clues.
This book was better than the first one in the series. I recommend it. It was very exciting and interesting to follow the clues.
December 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this murder mystery/thriller vibe. It was really awesome to see the story coming together piece by piece, and really interesting to see who would be one step ahead of the other. Awesome work!
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
April 22, 2024
Ethel Fiona Crestwater is my newest favorite character. Smart, strong and unflappable. This installment is centered around a difficult decision being taken on by the Supreme Court.
I can't wait to see where her next adventure takes her and her double cousin once removed Jesse.
I can't wait to see where her next adventure takes her and her double cousin once removed Jesse.
October 19, 2023
Writing senior protagonists is quite the challenge. Too often we see authors take too little advantage of the uniqueness of the elderly as characters. When written well, these characters are not “just like anyone else”. The best senior characters, in my opinion, have specializations. They know what they’re good at, and they have deep reserves of skill and connection that they can draw on to achieve goals. It’s not that they can’t grow and change - but the best senior characters start from a place of greater self-awareness than your average teen protagonist.
At the same time, they often have deeply rooted flaws; there’s a Goldilocks zone of competence to keep the story interesting. And a well-written senior protagonist often features younger foils, highlighting what makes their approach unique. These younger foils also often ground the protagonists, give them something to care about - because motivation matters.
I was nervous, then, to read the latest in Mark de Castrique’s Ethel Crestwater series. The first entry, Secret Lives, veered a little too far into “magically awesome old protagonist”, with Ethel making almost no mistakes. Still, there was some promise, particularly in the relationship between Ethel and her double-first cousin once removed, Jesse. And there was something endearing about the members of Ethel’s Army - I just wanted to know them a bit better - so I was willing to give the series another try.
Inside a Government Scandal
Dangerous Women, the follow-up to Secret Lives, picks up with a hit. Two Supreme Court law clerks run into trouble - and one happens to board with Ethel, who immediately goes on the case. As she and Jesse dig deeper, they quickly realize they need to protect the Chief Justice. Action ensues, drama happens, traps spring… And a Big Ol Government Conspiracy comes to light.
To be clear, this is a book with a bit of a puzzle and a LOT of action. Ethel and Jesse spend as much time running or shooting or protecting people as they do actually solving the puzzle. The puzzle itself is - fine. It’s a bit guessable, but de Castrique lays out all the pieces and there’s some cleverness to piecing them together.
As you may be able to tell, I just don’t love government conspiracies. (I’m more West Wing that House of Cards in my proclivities.) I found myself rushing through the action scenes trying to get to the detective bits. These were spread a bit too far apart for me - but if you like a government conspiracy story, this may be up your alley.
…with an increased character focus
Of course, frequent readers of this blog know that I particularly care about character writing. I find it impossible to get invested in a plot that doesn’t make me care about the characters - not just the main protagonist, but the supporting cast. de Castrique spends a lot more time developing this cast, and I cared a lot more about Ethel’s success.
This change is twofold. First - Ethel seems a lot more like a person in this book. In Secret Lives, she came off as almost hyper-competent. Here, it’s clear that she cares for people, that she can be funny, that she’s willing to walk into danger. There’s a bit less snarky guessing of outcomes and a bit more character activity.
The second change is in the development of the Chief Justice. De Castrique actually takes the time to develop her outside of her interactions with Ethel, and we learn to like and respect her individually first. Not only that, but she keeps demonstrating a Very Likable spine. This added depth to a “minor” protagonist makes the whole story more readable, as Ethel’s motivation moves from theoretical to very practical grounds. You don’t want to see the Chief Justice fall to political machinations, and you also don’t want to see Clarissa harmed.
Reader's notes & rating (⭐⭐⭐)
I am so glad that Dangerous Women is such an improvement over Secret Lives, really coming into its own. I personally still can’t get over the Grisham-ness of it - the idea that so much of DC is so tightly connected, and a significant number of Powerful People are out to take advantage. But I can see others enjoying it, particularly if they enjoy spending time with a quick-witted and surprising protagonist like Ethel and her Cousin Jesse. Three stars.
Read this if...
You enjoy stories of Little Old Ladies with surprising impact
You love a good government conspiracy story
Skip this if...
You’re not in the mood for a conspiracy…
…or in the mood for the results of violence
You want to know the ins and outs of characters’ processes
Dangerous Women will be published on October 24, 2023.
At the same time, they often have deeply rooted flaws; there’s a Goldilocks zone of competence to keep the story interesting. And a well-written senior protagonist often features younger foils, highlighting what makes their approach unique. These younger foils also often ground the protagonists, give them something to care about - because motivation matters.
I was nervous, then, to read the latest in Mark de Castrique’s Ethel Crestwater series. The first entry, Secret Lives, veered a little too far into “magically awesome old protagonist”, with Ethel making almost no mistakes. Still, there was some promise, particularly in the relationship between Ethel and her double-first cousin once removed, Jesse. And there was something endearing about the members of Ethel’s Army - I just wanted to know them a bit better - so I was willing to give the series another try.
Inside a Government Scandal
Dangerous Women, the follow-up to Secret Lives, picks up with a hit. Two Supreme Court law clerks run into trouble - and one happens to board with Ethel, who immediately goes on the case. As she and Jesse dig deeper, they quickly realize they need to protect the Chief Justice. Action ensues, drama happens, traps spring… And a Big Ol Government Conspiracy comes to light.
To be clear, this is a book with a bit of a puzzle and a LOT of action. Ethel and Jesse spend as much time running or shooting or protecting people as they do actually solving the puzzle. The puzzle itself is - fine. It’s a bit guessable, but de Castrique lays out all the pieces and there’s some cleverness to piecing them together.
As you may be able to tell, I just don’t love government conspiracies. (I’m more West Wing that House of Cards in my proclivities.) I found myself rushing through the action scenes trying to get to the detective bits. These were spread a bit too far apart for me - but if you like a government conspiracy story, this may be up your alley.
…with an increased character focus
Of course, frequent readers of this blog know that I particularly care about character writing. I find it impossible to get invested in a plot that doesn’t make me care about the characters - not just the main protagonist, but the supporting cast. de Castrique spends a lot more time developing this cast, and I cared a lot more about Ethel’s success.
This change is twofold. First - Ethel seems a lot more like a person in this book. In Secret Lives, she came off as almost hyper-competent. Here, it’s clear that she cares for people, that she can be funny, that she’s willing to walk into danger. There’s a bit less snarky guessing of outcomes and a bit more character activity.
The second change is in the development of the Chief Justice. De Castrique actually takes the time to develop her outside of her interactions with Ethel, and we learn to like and respect her individually first. Not only that, but she keeps demonstrating a Very Likable spine. This added depth to a “minor” protagonist makes the whole story more readable, as Ethel’s motivation moves from theoretical to very practical grounds. You don’t want to see the Chief Justice fall to political machinations, and you also don’t want to see Clarissa harmed.
Reader's notes & rating (⭐⭐⭐)
I am so glad that Dangerous Women is such an improvement over Secret Lives, really coming into its own. I personally still can’t get over the Grisham-ness of it - the idea that so much of DC is so tightly connected, and a significant number of Powerful People are out to take advantage. But I can see others enjoying it, particularly if they enjoy spending time with a quick-witted and surprising protagonist like Ethel and her Cousin Jesse. Three stars.
Read this if...
You enjoy stories of Little Old Ladies with surprising impact
You love a good government conspiracy story
Skip this if...
You’re not in the mood for a conspiracy…
…or in the mood for the results of violence
You want to know the ins and outs of characters’ processes
Dangerous Women will be published on October 24, 2023.
January 23, 2024
Age really is just a number in the second installation of the Secret Lives series. Part political thriller and part comedic clash of smart women at very different points in their lives,
Dangerous Women
is as witty as it is engrossing, and reminds its readers not to underestimate anyone—not even the landlady. Many thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Poisoned Pen Press for the copy to review.
It all starts with a botched attack resulting in one dead law clerk and another lost to a coma, all topped off with a cover-up that does more damage than damage control. Enter Ethel Crestwater, a boardinghouse stewardess in her mid-seventies, and her college-aged, distant cousin Jesse Cooper. The pair might not seem like much at first glance, especially in conjunction with this type of scandal and intrigue, but between Ethel's record as a former FBI agent and Jesse's tech-savvy brain, they might just be everyone's best chance at getting to the bottom of a plot that's stuck its fingers in way too many pies: including, but not limited to political giants, a cunning assassin, the Chief Justice's own office, environmentalists, and ruthless players with outside interests and too few altruistic motivations. Luckily, these ladies have a number of sharp skills and surprises up their skills, plus just the right amount of moxie to pick this fight. Dangerous Women indeed.
I haven't read the first Secret Lives book, but if it's anything like this one, I might need to backtrack to it sometime soon. That being said, if other readers were to dive right into this tale, I doubt they'll be at all confused or disappointed. Mark de Castrique has an apparent gift for knowing when to lighten the mood and when to let it crash down on his readers' shoulders for maximum effect. And where I could see (and certainly have in the past) this kind of writing style fall flat or even give an otherwise engaged audience extreme whiplash, I found that the balance between serious and snarky, stone-cold and heartfelt, was so nuanced that it both kept me on my toes and helped me settle into a narrative rhythm that naturally progressed throughout the novel and alongside the facts of the plot.
One area I will say I thought was somewhat lacking in this book was the individualized character development. From the get-go, we're introduced to a slew of important characters and tasked with keeping track of them while the action unfolds. To be clear, I think this approach fits in just fine with the mystery and suspense genre as a whole, but I could certainly see where the author might also lose some readers who are not as familiar with it or who prefer a smaller cast they can get to know better. For all that we see these characters endure and overcome—and even when they get their asses handed to them—we actually come away from the story not knowing much about them personally, which I felt was something of a wasted opportunity. I, for one, would love to delve deeper into Ethel's closet and see what kind of skeletons she's got tucked away behind her housecoats.
For fans of the plucky heroines featured in Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries series and the covert mechanics outlined so intricately and yet so succinctly in Robert Bockstael's Willow's Run , Dangerous Women is an invigorating, gratifying page-turner to add to your TBR pile this new year.
It all starts with a botched attack resulting in one dead law clerk and another lost to a coma, all topped off with a cover-up that does more damage than damage control. Enter Ethel Crestwater, a boardinghouse stewardess in her mid-seventies, and her college-aged, distant cousin Jesse Cooper. The pair might not seem like much at first glance, especially in conjunction with this type of scandal and intrigue, but between Ethel's record as a former FBI agent and Jesse's tech-savvy brain, they might just be everyone's best chance at getting to the bottom of a plot that's stuck its fingers in way too many pies: including, but not limited to political giants, a cunning assassin, the Chief Justice's own office, environmentalists, and ruthless players with outside interests and too few altruistic motivations. Luckily, these ladies have a number of sharp skills and surprises up their skills, plus just the right amount of moxie to pick this fight. Dangerous Women indeed.
I haven't read the first Secret Lives book, but if it's anything like this one, I might need to backtrack to it sometime soon. That being said, if other readers were to dive right into this tale, I doubt they'll be at all confused or disappointed. Mark de Castrique has an apparent gift for knowing when to lighten the mood and when to let it crash down on his readers' shoulders for maximum effect. And where I could see (and certainly have in the past) this kind of writing style fall flat or even give an otherwise engaged audience extreme whiplash, I found that the balance between serious and snarky, stone-cold and heartfelt, was so nuanced that it both kept me on my toes and helped me settle into a narrative rhythm that naturally progressed throughout the novel and alongside the facts of the plot.
One area I will say I thought was somewhat lacking in this book was the individualized character development. From the get-go, we're introduced to a slew of important characters and tasked with keeping track of them while the action unfolds. To be clear, I think this approach fits in just fine with the mystery and suspense genre as a whole, but I could certainly see where the author might also lose some readers who are not as familiar with it or who prefer a smaller cast they can get to know better. For all that we see these characters endure and overcome—and even when they get their asses handed to them—we actually come away from the story not knowing much about them personally, which I felt was something of a wasted opportunity. I, for one, would love to delve deeper into Ethel's closet and see what kind of skeletons she's got tucked away behind her housecoats.
For fans of the plucky heroines featured in Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries series and the covert mechanics outlined so intricately and yet so succinctly in Robert Bockstael's Willow's Run , Dangerous Women is an invigorating, gratifying page-turner to add to your TBR pile this new year.
October 25, 2023
We first met sprightly 76 year old, ex-FBI agent and legend Ethel Crestwater in Secret Lives, where she demonstrated that she is still just as sharp as ever and still a dangerous woman to cross. She runs a boarding house in Arlington for government agents who work in Washington DC, and has a long list of previous tenants now in powerful jobs, including senior Homicide Detective Lt Frank Mancini of the Arlington Police Dept. His niece Brooke Chaplin, a clerk at the Supreme Court, is now one of her tenants.
When Brooke is brutally assaulted and her fellow clerk Robert Finley killed by what looks like a random mugging, Ethel tells Frank she will do whatever she can to help in the investigation. After all she has a string of FBI and Secret Service contacts as well as people in high places she can contact for help. She also has her lodger Jesse Cooper (her double-first-cousin-twice-removed), a grad school student, who ably assisted her previously in investigating the assassination of a secret service agent and is willing to help out again.
When Robert Finlay was killed he was carrying papers that disappeared. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Clarissa Baxter, had asked him to look at the two sides of a deliberation that she had yet to make a decision on – an environmentally sensitive issue involving the mining of lithium for electric car batteries on federal land.
Ethel will need all her skills and diplomacy to solve this politically motivated killing and dig out the corruption in high places. She also needs to be very devious and clever to keep herself and Clarissa Baxter safe from some very determined killers.
This is a well written political thriller and a good follow up to Secret Lives. Ethel is just as delightful and witty and Jesse is learning a lot following in her wake. Having a real political environmental issue at the focus raises the very topical question of whether environmental damage from lithium mining should be allowed if it is to battle climate change by replacing our dependence on oil and fossil fuels with electric batteries. Food for thought. 4.5★
With thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via Netgalley for a copy to read
When Brooke is brutally assaulted and her fellow clerk Robert Finley killed by what looks like a random mugging, Ethel tells Frank she will do whatever she can to help in the investigation. After all she has a string of FBI and Secret Service contacts as well as people in high places she can contact for help. She also has her lodger Jesse Cooper (her double-first-cousin-twice-removed), a grad school student, who ably assisted her previously in investigating the assassination of a secret service agent and is willing to help out again.
When Robert Finlay was killed he was carrying papers that disappeared. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Clarissa Baxter, had asked him to look at the two sides of a deliberation that she had yet to make a decision on – an environmentally sensitive issue involving the mining of lithium for electric car batteries on federal land.
Ethel will need all her skills and diplomacy to solve this politically motivated killing and dig out the corruption in high places. She also needs to be very devious and clever to keep herself and Clarissa Baxter safe from some very determined killers.
This is a well written political thriller and a good follow up to Secret Lives. Ethel is just as delightful and witty and Jesse is learning a lot following in her wake. Having a real political environmental issue at the focus raises the very topical question of whether environmental damage from lithium mining should be allowed if it is to battle climate change by replacing our dependence on oil and fossil fuels with electric batteries. Food for thought. 4.5★
With thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via Netgalley for a copy to read
September 16, 2023
Another terrific entry to the “Elderly Detective fiction” genre (think Richard Osman’s “Thursday Murder Club” series, Deanna Raybourn’s “Killers of a Certain Age,” Steve Martin/Martin Short’s “Only Murders in the Building”). Go septuagenarians!
This is a sequel to “Secret Lives” and again 75 year old Ethel Crestwater uses her age as a cloak of invisibility. Returning is her young sidekick, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, a university student, who is taking lock-picking lessons from Ethel. She’s a retired FBI agent turned boardinghouse landlady — and her tenants (mostly young people in law enforcement) are her family. One of them, Brooke, a law clerk for the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (a relative youngster at 48), was mugged while her companion, another law clerk, died. The backpacks containing court papers of Robert (the victim) and Brooke disappeared. Ethel has a LOT of connections (Brooke’s uncle is a DC homicide detective and former boarder) and after surveying the circumstances, she decides to, well, meddle.
It’s eventually apparent the attack does involve a current case before the Supreme Court, where the Chief Justice will most likely be the tie-breaker. Ethel is a delightful sleuth — she has the wits and guile of people half her age (or a third of her age) and the story is better when Ethel is in that part of the story. We do get asides for the various nefarious characters who are working to conceal their crimes, but Ethel is the bright spot in each chapter. The legal case is a bit complicated (with lots of interested parties) and those parts can so slow as they get explained.
Audiobooks work best with fewer characters and “Dangerous Women” might just have a tad too many to keep track of. However, the narration was bright and discerning — this is still mostly like a police procedural and as long as you don’t take frequent breaks, the story flowed.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Brooke has blue eyes and the Chief Justice has brown, but that’s it.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO There’s talk of environmental concerns on a large scale, but nothing seems out of place or season.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media (audiobook), Poisoned Pen Press (book) and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
This is a sequel to “Secret Lives” and again 75 year old Ethel Crestwater uses her age as a cloak of invisibility. Returning is her young sidekick, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, a university student, who is taking lock-picking lessons from Ethel. She’s a retired FBI agent turned boardinghouse landlady — and her tenants (mostly young people in law enforcement) are her family. One of them, Brooke, a law clerk for the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (a relative youngster at 48), was mugged while her companion, another law clerk, died. The backpacks containing court papers of Robert (the victim) and Brooke disappeared. Ethel has a LOT of connections (Brooke’s uncle is a DC homicide detective and former boarder) and after surveying the circumstances, she decides to, well, meddle.
It’s eventually apparent the attack does involve a current case before the Supreme Court, where the Chief Justice will most likely be the tie-breaker. Ethel is a delightful sleuth — she has the wits and guile of people half her age (or a third of her age) and the story is better when Ethel is in that part of the story. We do get asides for the various nefarious characters who are working to conceal their crimes, but Ethel is the bright spot in each chapter. The legal case is a bit complicated (with lots of interested parties) and those parts can so slow as they get explained.
Audiobooks work best with fewer characters and “Dangerous Women” might just have a tad too many to keep track of. However, the narration was bright and discerning — this is still mostly like a police procedural and as long as you don’t take frequent breaks, the story flowed.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Brooke has blue eyes and the Chief Justice has brown, but that’s it.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO There’s talk of environmental concerns on a large scale, but nothing seems out of place or season.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media (audiobook), Poisoned Pen Press (book) and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
September 17, 2023
Another terrific entry to the “Elderly Detective fiction” genre (think Richard Osman’s “Thursday Murder Club” series, Deanna Raybourn’s “Killers of a Certain Age,” Steve Martin/Martin Short’s “Only Murders in the Building”). Go septuagenarians!
This is a sequel to “Secret Lives” and again 75 year old Ethel Crestwater uses her age as a cloak of invisibility. Returning is her young sidekick, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, a university student, who is taking lock-picking lessons from Ethel. She’s a retired FBI agent turned boardinghouse landlady — and her tenants (mostly young people in law enforcement) are her family. One of them, Brooke, a law clerk for the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (a relative youngster at 48), was mugged while her companion, another law clerk, died. The backpacks containing court papers of Robert (the victim) and Brooke disappeared. Ethel has a LOT of connections (Brooke’s uncle is a DC homicide detective and former boarder) and after surveying the circumstances, she decides to, well, meddle.
It’s eventually apparent the attack does involve a current case before the Supreme Court, where the Chief Justice will most likely be the tie-breaker. Ethel is a delightful sleuth — she has the wits and guile of people half her age (or a third of her age) and the story is better when Ethel is in that part of the story. We do get asides for the various nefarious characters who are working to conceal their crimes, but Ethel is the bright spot in each chapter. The legal case is a bit complicated (with lots of interested parties) and those parts can so slow as they get explained.
Audiobooks work best with fewer characters and “Dangerous Women” might just have a tad too many to keep track of. However, the narration was bright and discerning — this is still mostly like a police procedural and as long as you don’t take frequent breaks, the story flowed.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Brooke has blue eyes and the Chief Justice has brown, but that’s it.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO There’s talk of environmental concerns on a large scale, but nothing seems out of place or season.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media (audiobook), Poisoned Pen Press (book) and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
This is a sequel to “Secret Lives” and again 75 year old Ethel Crestwater uses her age as a cloak of invisibility. Returning is her young sidekick, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse, a university student, who is taking lock-picking lessons from Ethel. She’s a retired FBI agent turned boardinghouse landlady — and her tenants (mostly young people in law enforcement) are her family. One of them, Brooke, a law clerk for the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (a relative youngster at 48), was mugged while her companion, another law clerk, died. The backpacks containing court papers of Robert (the victim) and Brooke disappeared. Ethel has a LOT of connections (Brooke’s uncle is a DC homicide detective and former boarder) and after surveying the circumstances, she decides to, well, meddle.
It’s eventually apparent the attack does involve a current case before the Supreme Court, where the Chief Justice will most likely be the tie-breaker. Ethel is a delightful sleuth — she has the wits and guile of people half her age (or a third of her age) and the story is better when Ethel is in that part of the story. We do get asides for the various nefarious characters who are working to conceal their crimes, but Ethel is the bright spot in each chapter. The legal case is a bit complicated (with lots of interested parties) and those parts can so slow as they get explained.
Audiobooks work best with fewer characters and “Dangerous Women” might just have a tad too many to keep track of. However, the narration was bright and discerning — this is still mostly like a police procedural and as long as you don’t take frequent breaks, the story flowed.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Brooke has blue eyes and the Chief Justice has brown, but that’s it.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO There’s talk of environmental concerns on a large scale, but nothing seems out of place or season.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media (audiobook), Poisoned Pen Press (book) and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
June 21, 2024
Mark de Castrique’s "Dangerous Women" is a captivating mystery that expertly blends history, intrigue, and character development. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this novel delves into the lives of three women who navigate dangerous and unpredictable circumstances with courage and resilience.
The story follows the intertwining paths of a British secret agent, a German spy, and an American journalist. Each woman is vividly portrayed, with de Castrique providing rich backstories that make them feel real and relatable. Their individual quests for truth and justice are compelling, and the way their stories converge adds layers of complexity to the plot.
One of the novel’s standout features is its historical accuracy. De Castrique has clearly done his homework, and the attention to detail brings the era to life. The settings, from war-torn Europe to the bustling streets of New York City, are described with such precision that you can almost feel the tension and uncertainty of the time.
The pacing is well-balanced, with just the right mix of action, suspense, and character-driven moments. The plot twists are well-crafted, keeping you on the edge of your seat without feeling contrived. De Castrique’s writing is smooth and engaging, making it easy to get lost in the narrative.
However, the book is not without its flaws. At times, the sheer number of characters and plotlines can be a bit overwhelming, requiring careful attention to keep track of who’s who and how they’re connected. Additionally, while the primary characters are well-developed, some of the secondary characters feel less fleshed out, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals.
Despite these minor issues, "Dangerous Women" is a thoroughly enjoyable read. It offers a fresh perspective on World War II fiction, focusing on the often-overlooked contributions of women during the war. The themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the quest for truth resonate strongly, making it a thought-provoking as well as an entertaining book.
"Dangerous Women" is a gripping and well-researched novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and mystery alike. Mark de Castrique has crafted a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, showcasing the strength and resilience of its female protagonists. It’s a book that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page, earning it a solid four stars.
The story follows the intertwining paths of a British secret agent, a German spy, and an American journalist. Each woman is vividly portrayed, with de Castrique providing rich backstories that make them feel real and relatable. Their individual quests for truth and justice are compelling, and the way their stories converge adds layers of complexity to the plot.
One of the novel’s standout features is its historical accuracy. De Castrique has clearly done his homework, and the attention to detail brings the era to life. The settings, from war-torn Europe to the bustling streets of New York City, are described with such precision that you can almost feel the tension and uncertainty of the time.
The pacing is well-balanced, with just the right mix of action, suspense, and character-driven moments. The plot twists are well-crafted, keeping you on the edge of your seat without feeling contrived. De Castrique’s writing is smooth and engaging, making it easy to get lost in the narrative.
However, the book is not without its flaws. At times, the sheer number of characters and plotlines can be a bit overwhelming, requiring careful attention to keep track of who’s who and how they’re connected. Additionally, while the primary characters are well-developed, some of the secondary characters feel less fleshed out, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals.
Despite these minor issues, "Dangerous Women" is a thoroughly enjoyable read. It offers a fresh perspective on World War II fiction, focusing on the often-overlooked contributions of women during the war. The themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the quest for truth resonate strongly, making it a thought-provoking as well as an entertaining book.
"Dangerous Women" is a gripping and well-researched novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and mystery alike. Mark de Castrique has crafted a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, showcasing the strength and resilience of its female protagonists. It’s a book that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page, earning it a solid four stars.
April 23, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
"Dangerous Women" by Mark de Castrique is a riveting addition to the Secret Lives series that masterfully blends the charm of a cozy mystery with the sharpness of a political thriller. Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes legal battle over the future of clean energy, the novel introduces us to a cast of characters as complex as the issues they grapple with.
At the heart of the story is Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a retired FBI agent turned boardinghouse landlady. Despite her advanced years, Ethel is far from your typical sleuth. With a mind as sharp as her instincts, she embodies the cunning and resourcefulness of a seasoned spy, reminiscent of the protagonists in Thomas Perry's "The Old Man" and the vibrant assassins in "Killers of a Certain Age."
The narrative kicks off with a botched attack on two law clerks, spiraling into a deadly cover-up that leaves a trail of bodies and a web of intrigue. As the plot thickens, Ethel, along with her tech-savvy sidekick Jesse Cooper, navigates through a labyrinth of political sycophants, lobbyists, and an assassin with a vendetta against the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
De Castrique's writing is both clever and urgent, propelling the reader through a story that is as timely as it is timeless. The novel's pacing is impeccable, balancing the tension of a thriller with the introspection of a detective novel. The author's ability to weave complex narratives with ease is on full display, as he takes the reader on a journey through the murky waters of politics and power.
"Dangerous Women" is not just a title; it's a statement on the underestimated strength and intellect of women, particularly those like Ethel, who defy expectations at every turn. This book is a testament to the genre's evolution, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be a 'dangerous' woman in a world that often overlooks them.
"Dangerous Women" is a must-read for fans of mysteries and thrillers alike. It's a book that keeps you guessing until the very end and leaves you pondering the intricate dance of justice and the law long after you've finished reading.
"Dangerous Women" by Mark de Castrique is a riveting addition to the Secret Lives series that masterfully blends the charm of a cozy mystery with the sharpness of a political thriller. Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes legal battle over the future of clean energy, the novel introduces us to a cast of characters as complex as the issues they grapple with.
At the heart of the story is Ethel Fiona Crestwater, a retired FBI agent turned boardinghouse landlady. Despite her advanced years, Ethel is far from your typical sleuth. With a mind as sharp as her instincts, she embodies the cunning and resourcefulness of a seasoned spy, reminiscent of the protagonists in Thomas Perry's "The Old Man" and the vibrant assassins in "Killers of a Certain Age."
The narrative kicks off with a botched attack on two law clerks, spiraling into a deadly cover-up that leaves a trail of bodies and a web of intrigue. As the plot thickens, Ethel, along with her tech-savvy sidekick Jesse Cooper, navigates through a labyrinth of political sycophants, lobbyists, and an assassin with a vendetta against the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
De Castrique's writing is both clever and urgent, propelling the reader through a story that is as timely as it is timeless. The novel's pacing is impeccable, balancing the tension of a thriller with the introspection of a detective novel. The author's ability to weave complex narratives with ease is on full display, as he takes the reader on a journey through the murky waters of politics and power.
"Dangerous Women" is not just a title; it's a statement on the underestimated strength and intellect of women, particularly those like Ethel, who defy expectations at every turn. This book is a testament to the genre's evolution, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be a 'dangerous' woman in a world that often overlooks them.
"Dangerous Women" is a must-read for fans of mysteries and thrillers alike. It's a book that keeps you guessing until the very end and leaves you pondering the intricate dance of justice and the law long after you've finished reading.
Read
November 2, 2023I haven't rated this because it would not be the right thing to do.
When I chose this book, I didn't know that it was a political thriller. The description did mention it, but I assumed that it was the setting, not the actual premise on which the book was based. I also didn't know that it was the second book in a series, though that does not take anything away from the readability of this book. You can read it as a standalone as well, I'm sure.
I did read 33% of it before quitting, so here's what I can tell you.
Two clerks to the Supreme Court are attacked, and one of them, Robert Finlay, who used to work for The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Clarissa Baxter, unfortunately dies. The other one who is severely injured, is the niece of Detective Mancini.
When Robert died, he had in his possession important papers regarding a case about an environmentally sensitive issue involving whether the mining of lithium for electric car batteries should be permitted as a replacement for oil and fossil fuels, that the judge was supposed to deliberate and pass a ruling on. The bag carrying those documents is now missing, and that's how the investigators now know that this is a politically-motivated crime.
Ethel Crestwater is a dear friend of the detective, and also an ex-FBI agent. She and her trusty sidekick, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse Cooper, get drawn into the case which is a conspiracy involving a lot of political bigwigs.
The writing is good, but I am not the right audience for political thrillers, whether it's books or films, and I really dislike them with a vengeance. I am sure this book shapes up well, but for me, there were too many characters, and too complex and multi-layered a plot, in whatever portion that I read, that I just knew that I would not enjoy it or make it to the end.
Best for you to decide for yourselves, if this is the kind of thing that interests you.
Thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
When I chose this book, I didn't know that it was a political thriller. The description did mention it, but I assumed that it was the setting, not the actual premise on which the book was based. I also didn't know that it was the second book in a series, though that does not take anything away from the readability of this book. You can read it as a standalone as well, I'm sure.
I did read 33% of it before quitting, so here's what I can tell you.
Two clerks to the Supreme Court are attacked, and one of them, Robert Finlay, who used to work for The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Clarissa Baxter, unfortunately dies. The other one who is severely injured, is the niece of Detective Mancini.
When Robert died, he had in his possession important papers regarding a case about an environmentally sensitive issue involving whether the mining of lithium for electric car batteries should be permitted as a replacement for oil and fossil fuels, that the judge was supposed to deliberate and pass a ruling on. The bag carrying those documents is now missing, and that's how the investigators now know that this is a politically-motivated crime.
Ethel Crestwater is a dear friend of the detective, and also an ex-FBI agent. She and her trusty sidekick, her double-first-cousin-twice-removed, Jesse Cooper, get drawn into the case which is a conspiracy involving a lot of political bigwigs.
The writing is good, but I am not the right audience for political thrillers, whether it's books or films, and I really dislike them with a vengeance. I am sure this book shapes up well, but for me, there were too many characters, and too complex and multi-layered a plot, in whatever portion that I read, that I just knew that I would not enjoy it or make it to the end.
Best for you to decide for yourselves, if this is the kind of thing that interests you.
Thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2023
Dangerous Women, the second in an enthralling series, is a worthy follow-up to author Mark de Castrique's Secret Lives. The main focus is again on the legendary Ethel Crestwater, a retired FBI agent who owns an Arlington, VA boarding house where a number of law enforcement employees are housed. She has maintained many of her government contacts, including some in very high offices, and at age 75, she is still a force to be reckoned with. Underestimate the investigative skills and experience of this highly-skilled "little old lady" at your peril!
When one of her boarders is gravely injured when she and a fellow US Supreme Court law clerk are brutally attacked, Ethel enlists the help of another boarder, her college-age cousin Jesse, and lends her expertise to the local police and the current FBI director to get to the bottom of why the attacks occurred, by whom, and what this means for the new (female) Chief Justice, The fate of a controversial ruling that will be made by the country's highest court hangs in the balance. It's a case related to climate change and clean energy, and the decision could have disastrous effects on some Native American tribes, as well as ranchers and farmers.
The author expertly weaves an intricate plot of political intrigue peopled by lobbyists, security companies, US Senators, the Secret Service, FBI agents, Supreme Court police, a mining coalition, and intelligence agencies. As the clock ticks, de Castrique masterfully ramps up the suspense, leaving the reader breathless and ultimately satisfied. I hope there are more in this excellent series.
When one of her boarders is gravely injured when she and a fellow US Supreme Court law clerk are brutally attacked, Ethel enlists the help of another boarder, her college-age cousin Jesse, and lends her expertise to the local police and the current FBI director to get to the bottom of why the attacks occurred, by whom, and what this means for the new (female) Chief Justice, The fate of a controversial ruling that will be made by the country's highest court hangs in the balance. It's a case related to climate change and clean energy, and the decision could have disastrous effects on some Native American tribes, as well as ranchers and farmers.
The author expertly weaves an intricate plot of political intrigue peopled by lobbyists, security companies, US Senators, the Secret Service, FBI agents, Supreme Court police, a mining coalition, and intelligence agencies. As the clock ticks, de Castrique masterfully ramps up the suspense, leaving the reader breathless and ultimately satisfied. I hope there are more in this excellent series.
November 8, 2025
Ethel is back! Ex-FBI agent septuagenarian Ethel Fiona Crestwater and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper return in “Dangerous Women”, Mark de Castrique’s sequel to “Secret Lives”.
Trouble once again invades Ethel’s boardinghouse for government employees. This time two Supreme Court law clerks are attacked, one dead and the other in a coma. The only thing missing was the clerk’s briefcase, full of documents pertaining to an upcoming ruling on lithium mining, a ruling that could have far-reaching economic (and political) consequences for all of the parties involved. The Supreme Court seems to be evenly split on the issue, with the Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter undecided and casting the deciding vote.
The law clerk in the coma was one of Ethel’s tenants, as well as the niece of Detective Lt Frank Mancini of the Arlington Police Dept., an ex-tenant and close friend himself, so Ethel takes this personally. Off she goes, with Jesse’s help, to uncover a conspiracy all throughout Washington that threatens the chief justice as well as anyone who gets in their way. By the end of the day, Ethel will have to deal with lobbyists, security companies, US Senators, the Secret Service, FBI agents, Supreme Court police, mining coalitions, and more before an explosive finale against a determined hitman.
A somewhat-cozy murder mystery with some unexpected protagonists. My only concern is that Ethel is becoming a little bit too much of a superman, outwitting everyone and bending every person she comes into contact with to her will, from FBI directors to Chief Justices. It would be nice if she could be a little more human, a little more fallible.
Trouble once again invades Ethel’s boardinghouse for government employees. This time two Supreme Court law clerks are attacked, one dead and the other in a coma. The only thing missing was the clerk’s briefcase, full of documents pertaining to an upcoming ruling on lithium mining, a ruling that could have far-reaching economic (and political) consequences for all of the parties involved. The Supreme Court seems to be evenly split on the issue, with the Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter undecided and casting the deciding vote.
The law clerk in the coma was one of Ethel’s tenants, as well as the niece of Detective Lt Frank Mancini of the Arlington Police Dept., an ex-tenant and close friend himself, so Ethel takes this personally. Off she goes, with Jesse’s help, to uncover a conspiracy all throughout Washington that threatens the chief justice as well as anyone who gets in their way. By the end of the day, Ethel will have to deal with lobbyists, security companies, US Senators, the Secret Service, FBI agents, Supreme Court police, mining coalitions, and more before an explosive finale against a determined hitman.
A somewhat-cozy murder mystery with some unexpected protagonists. My only concern is that Ethel is becoming a little bit too much of a superman, outwitting everyone and bending every person she comes into contact with to her will, from FBI directors to Chief Justices. It would be nice if she could be a little more human, a little more fallible.
December 24, 2024
My thoughts:
I don't really deeply bound to this book. But the riveting part is that you will get a 75-ish elderly, retired FBI agent as the central character and she was a woman: Ethel Fiona Crestwater is a no-cutesy and could be your gun-wielding grandma.
How should I describe Ethel? She was witty, canny, and pretty much crafting the masterful plan to help her close friend, Detective Frank Mancini's niece from danger. The case started when two Supreme Court law clerks were attacked. The male victim died while his female colleague was in a coma. A backpack that was full of secretive documents was being stolen and the police thought it was a random robbery, which it was not. The investigation leads to something that could mistrust someone's position, with the power of money, and political corruption. Ethel set in motion and nosed around to solve the case along with her cousin, Jesse Cooper.
✍🏼 I found myself struggling to catch up with the legal terms because the case touched on the law, the US constitute legislative rules, and the rest of the terms that toast my brain out. Plus, I'm not used to multiple characters coming in with their long full name with addressing titles. It does disrupt my reading a bit. However, it was not complicated when I could grasp the whole case.
Undoubtedly, the book title is clear when you delve into those female characters. I feel like the pace of the investigation is not uptight and slighter intense so if you love this swiftness with the setting of legal terms involved, then you should try ❤️✨
I don't really deeply bound to this book. But the riveting part is that you will get a 75-ish elderly, retired FBI agent as the central character and she was a woman: Ethel Fiona Crestwater is a no-cutesy and could be your gun-wielding grandma.
How should I describe Ethel? She was witty, canny, and pretty much crafting the masterful plan to help her close friend, Detective Frank Mancini's niece from danger. The case started when two Supreme Court law clerks were attacked. The male victim died while his female colleague was in a coma. A backpack that was full of secretive documents was being stolen and the police thought it was a random robbery, which it was not. The investigation leads to something that could mistrust someone's position, with the power of money, and political corruption. Ethel set in motion and nosed around to solve the case along with her cousin, Jesse Cooper.
✍🏼 I found myself struggling to catch up with the legal terms because the case touched on the law, the US constitute legislative rules, and the rest of the terms that toast my brain out. Plus, I'm not used to multiple characters coming in with their long full name with addressing titles. It does disrupt my reading a bit. However, it was not complicated when I could grasp the whole case.
Undoubtedly, the book title is clear when you delve into those female characters. I feel like the pace of the investigation is not uptight and slighter intense so if you love this swiftness with the setting of legal terms involved, then you should try ❤️✨
September 12, 2023
This was my first Mark De Castrique book.
This book is very political. I do not love some of that, but I did enjoy the book overall.
In a case deciding the future of clean energy, everything hinges on how the chief justice of Supreme Court will lean. DANGEROUS WOMEN stirs up the perfect cocktail of ingenious spy-craft and political intrigue of Thomas Perry's The Old Man brightened with the charming, uncanny energy of Killers of a Certain Age . This urgent, cleverly plotted high stakes thriller is set in motion by botched attack on two law clerks leaving one dead and the other in a coma. The ensuing cover up leaves a string of bodies and too many players at cross-purposes. It also leaves Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter with a target on her back. We'll need an off the grid hero with friends in high enter retired FBI agent-turned-boardinghouse landlady, Ethel Fiona Crestwater (legend) and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper (sidekick). Although in her mid-seventies, Ethel is no bumbling amateur sleuth; she's a seasoned pro with razor-sharp instincts and Bond-worthy skills. College-aged Jesse brings tech savvy and boundless enthusiasm, along with an innate talent for intrigue. Together, the unlikely duo will face malicious back-stabbing political sycophants, conniving lobbyists, and a motivated assassin bent on removing the Chief Justice from the equation—along with Ethel, who stands defiantly between the hitman and his payday.
This book is very political. I do not love some of that, but I did enjoy the book overall.
In a case deciding the future of clean energy, everything hinges on how the chief justice of Supreme Court will lean. DANGEROUS WOMEN stirs up the perfect cocktail of ingenious spy-craft and political intrigue of Thomas Perry's The Old Man brightened with the charming, uncanny energy of Killers of a Certain Age . This urgent, cleverly plotted high stakes thriller is set in motion by botched attack on two law clerks leaving one dead and the other in a coma. The ensuing cover up leaves a string of bodies and too many players at cross-purposes. It also leaves Chief Justice Clarissa Baxter with a target on her back. We'll need an off the grid hero with friends in high enter retired FBI agent-turned-boardinghouse landlady, Ethel Fiona Crestwater (legend) and her double-first-cousin-twice-removed Jesse Cooper (sidekick). Although in her mid-seventies, Ethel is no bumbling amateur sleuth; she's a seasoned pro with razor-sharp instincts and Bond-worthy skills. College-aged Jesse brings tech savvy and boundless enthusiasm, along with an innate talent for intrigue. Together, the unlikely duo will face malicious back-stabbing political sycophants, conniving lobbyists, and a motivated assassin bent on removing the Chief Justice from the equation—along with Ethel, who stands defiantly between the hitman and his payday.
September 19, 2023
When a border of Ester‘s name Brooke and her friend get a salted and he dies of course her and Jesse go to the hospital after all it was an old border and a good friend of hers that asked if his niece could stay with Esther to begin with she was doing an internship for one of the justices as was her friend who was murdered. Although Detective Gwynn Meadows is on the case because Esther has more pull than he does she’s going to do her own investigation and thanks to a homeless man with good teeth Jessie‘s hacking ability and her friends in high places she’ll find out this case is way bigger than her last one but she’ll have to do it soon or more people could die. I love the stories with Esther and her second cousin twice removed so much! They’re so smart and I think the author Mark De Castrique must be a very intelligent man because for a cozy mystery this one almost went over my head but I think even if I did I would probably just continue reading because these are so much fun. This is a book I highly recommend if you love cozy mysteries with an IQ then you definitely love these books with Esther and her cousin Jesse I certainly do. This is one book you will not guess the ending of because once again I never do! I want to thank the publisher and Net Galley for my free art copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
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