The Secret Detective Agency is a new series from the author of the Miss Underhay cosy historical mysteries. This time the action takes place during the Second World War.
In a move away from the genteel society of the 1930s, Britain is now at war and Miss Jane Treen is working at the War Office, co-ordinating agents out in the field. When a body is found out in the countryside, she heads out of own to the home of Arthur Cilento, academic and code breaker for the War Office. A number of field agents are missing, and two have been found dead. There is suspicion of a mole in the War Office that could put everyone in danger.
Together, Jane and Arthur must solve the mystery and work out if there are bigger implications of the death on national security.
This first novel is as much about meeting the main characters, but there’s a deviously twisty plot to keep us and the protagonists on our toes. In a world of spies and subterfuge, is anyone who they claim to be?
What I enjoy most about Helena Dixon mysteries is the strong female protagonists, doing their best in worlds where their options are limited by society. They often go against the societal norms, but not in a way that feels jarring against what we know of the time. The research that goes into these novels brings the time periods to life for the reader, educating them about life in that period, without being overwhelming. The period detail is tightly woven into the plots, fully immersing the reader in the story.
I was really happy to hear Kristen Atherton providing the voice for the audiobook. She’s a wonderful narrator, and is the voice of many of my favourite series. She reads the material so well, with excellent characterisation.
This is a series I’ll be sure to follow closely.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advance copy of this novel and audiobook for review.
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