I liked the first book in this series, and this one was even better. The characters are great, and the plot was unique. I will definitely be recommending it to friends.

Thank you to netgalley.com for the ARC.

I had read the first book in the series and enjoyed all the characters. I wanted to say that I actually liked the characters even better in this second book in the series. The story moves from the Pacific Northwest to Alaska, Hawaii, and Thailand (Siam in the book). The description of the locations are phenomenal and I felt that I was in Siam in the 1940's. I enjoyed the story line and how the characters from the first book were brought back together again in an ingenious way. Lena, the story's heroine, is a flawed character but relatable. I look forward to reading more of her adventures.

Adventure, intrique and brilliant characters. Alisa Smith writes great characters and plot and makes me anxious for the next installment.

This was more of a 'spy' novel than I usually read and I'm afraid it didn't hold my interest very well. Still, the writing is good and the characters were well-defined. Just not my favorite kind of book

Written in noir style, the novel is dark and intriguing using multiple first persons. Lieutenant Lena Stillman is an ex-bank robber and ended up in Shemya, Alaska at the end of WW2 as a code-breaker. Years before, Lena was part of a criminal element that was called the Clockwork Gang. There were four in the gang. Bill Bagley was the brains and two others besides herself, Byron Godfrey and Link Hughes. Bill settled in Siam and secured a lucrative enterprise. Lena feels responsible for what happened to Link during the war. And now, years after they scattered, she receives an astounding message from Bill regarding Link. Regardless of her feelings for Bill, she absolutely MUST travel to Siam to see Link and square herself with him. And she is not the only one from the old gang receiving an urgent message.

First, I enjoyed the author's sagacity when it came to matters of spying, foreign lands, pre, during, and post-war politics, and being "the criminal used for good" (they have the expertise a by-the-book grunt wouldn't). I had not read Book 1, but felt it could function as a standalone as we certainly get the person that is Bill/William, as well as the other main characters.

Several chapters evolve before you begin to get a sense of who is speaking and then you must discern if they are a reliable narrator. The timeline is not a lengthy one, but there is a lot to take in. The dialogue between main characters and those they are dealing with feel natural. The storyline is well-plotted and builds tension as each of the individuals share their perspective and pressure escalates. The people, the smells, the overcrowded and unhealthy conditions bring forth an unwelcome conjuring of sights you can't unsee. And still, it takes a while before the entire mission becomes clear.

I received this ebook from the publisher and NetGalley and appreciated the opportunity to read and review. While this novel may not be for everyone, if you are looking for something different, enjoy historical novels, and spy action-adventure, particularly with a single-minded capable female protagonist, you'll enjoy this one.

A follow up to the action packed Speakeasy historical fiction at its best.Lena takes a trip into her past full of adventure excitement history so well written highly recommend.#netgalley #st.martinsbooks

Doublespeak is the follow-up to Speakeasy and it did not disappoint. Well written and great characters. The historical detail makes you feel like you are part of the book.

Having read the first book, I did not know what to expect. However, the story was very refreshing for it involves a journey to Bangkok. I still did not like Lena and could not figure it out. The writing was detailed and written as an action novel. I also
liked the spy aspect the best. Overall, I recommend this for those that love post-WWII and spy novels.

An intriguing and interesting thriller. I do wish I'd read the first novel because it likely would have made entering Lena's world easier. A former gangster turned Navy codebreaker during WWII, this outing sees her attempting to rescue Link, who she wronged. He's in "Siam," which was a real hotbed of espionage during WWII and immediately after. Those familiar with that scene will wonder who several of the characters are really. Everyone's motives are suspect and Lena doesn't trust easily, which is good. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good read.

This is the follow-up book to Speakeasy, and it begins with Lela code-breaking in the Alaskan wilderness right after the end of World War II. Lena gets a shocking message from someone she thought to be dead, giving Link's location as Siam. What follows is a tale of intrigue and a possible shot at Redemption for Lena.
I enjoyed Speakeasy, so I was excited to read this one. Unfortunately, I was never really able to get into it. I don't know if it was just too much "spy" and "action" oriented for me, since that isn't the type of book I usually enjoy, or what. The writing was well-done however, and someone who does enjoy a good spy thriller would definitely enjoy this.

"The followup to the literate and action-packed historical thriller Speakeasy, Doublespeak finds plucky protagonist Lena on a journey back to her past.

Lieutenant Lena Stillman has been left, nearly alone, on her code-breaking mission in remote Alaska. World War II has been over for a month, but due to crimes committed a lifetime ago, Lena is still under the control of the powerful Miss Maggie.

Shaken by her role in the disappearance of Corporal Link Hughes - and by her own misjudgment of his character - Lena yearns for an opportunity to redeem them both. Then she receives a shocking message containing Link’s potential location: Siam. Embarking on a clandestine rescue mission to Bangkok, Lena is reunited with shadows from her past - including loyal friend Byron who is eager to escape his safe, dull life and the attractive yet dangerous “William Yardly.” As personal and political allegiances shift in the postwar maelstrom, it seems impossible to know who is good or bad, innocent or culpable and whether they are motivated by love or revenge.

Overlaying rich historic detail and an intricate plot, Doublespeak is an entrancing sequel to Alisa Smith’s first novel Speakeasy, which received the honor of being a Walter Scott Prize Academy recommended book of 2018."

I like the unlikely locals that one doesn't necessarily connect with WWII and the time immediately after that.

I was given a ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review.

Love this change of location to the far East. This is a fast paced, dangerous, exciting, and provocative novel.

This book really touched me. I felt completely engrossed by the intricate storyline and the characters that were beautiful inside and out.
A truly marvelous piece of writing.