Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley, for the free copy for review.

In Julia Kelly's gripping historical thriller, we're thrust into the clandestine world of wartime Britain, where secrets lurk in every shadow and trust is a rare commodity. At the heart of this intricate web stands Evie, a novice spy with something to prove and everything to lose.

What begins as a seemingly routine assignment for Evie quickly descends into a maelstrom of intrigue when an engineer is found murdered at Blackthorn Park. With her enigmatic handler, David, Evie finds herself in a pulse-pounding race against time. Their mission: unmask the killer before the Prime Minister's arrival throws their covert operation into chaos.

Kelly masterfully intertwines historical events with fiction, painting a vivid picture of Winston Churchill's Britain grappling with the development of weaponry. This blend of fact and fantasy adds a layer of authenticity that immerses readers in the tense atmosphere of a nation at war.

Evie emerges as a formidable protagonist, her fearlessness and unwavering determination shining through despite mounting danger. Her astute observations and relentless pursuit of the truth showcase her commitment to the mission and her deep-seated desire to understand the killer's motivations.

The author's skillful placement of red herrings keeps readers on their toes, making the unraveling of the mystery a thrilling journey. By aligning our perspective closely with Evie's, Kelly creates an unpredictable narrative that defies easy prediction.

Betrayal at Blackthorn Park stands out as a compelling blend of historical accuracy and heart-pounding mystery. Julia Kelly has crafted a tale that will keep readers guessing until the very last page, offering a glimpse into the shadowy world of wartime espionage through the eyes of an unforgettable heroine. For fans of historical fiction and mysteries alike, this book promises an exhilarating ride through the treacherous landscape of secrets, lies, and unexpected betrayals.

This is the second book in the Evelyne Redfern series (the first was A Traitor in Whitehall). I really enjoyed the first book, so I was thrilled to get an early copy of the second!

This is a fast-paced mystery set in Britain during WWII. I liked that the plot was not overly complicated, but still had me guessing until the end. There's nothing particularly earth-shattering or unique in this book, but it's a fun story and I like the author's writing style.

You can definitely feel a romance brewing between Evelyne and her partner David, but I like that it's still in the background of the book and not taking over the story or affecting the characters' actions just yet.

I'm also intrigued by Evelyne's friend Moira and hope to learn a little bit more about her in future books. I'll be anxiously awaiting the next installment!

Thank you @netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!

With mystery, intrigue, and the hints of romance international bestselling author Julia Kelly is known for, Evelyne Redfern returns in Betrayal at Blackthorn Park.

Thank you Minotaur Books & Macmillan Audio for both of my ARCs of this book! I enjoyed reading this book. I haven’t read the first book in this series but this reads perfectly as a standalone book. I don’t feel like you have to read the first book in order to read this.

Thank you to @netgally, @stmartinspress and @juliakellywrites for the gifted e-book. Thank you to @macmillan.audio #MacAudio2024 for the gifted audiobook.

This is the second book in the Parisian Orphan series. We follow Evelyne Redfern as she embarks on her first mission after returning from field agent training. Teaming up with her former partner David Poole, they find themselves entangled in a murder investigation during what was supposed to be a routine security check.

The author's storytelling is so gripping, and the way the characters and the plot unfold kept me on the edge of my seat. The hint of a budding romance between Evelyne and David adds a thrilling layer to the narrative, and the unexpected twist at the end left me craving for more.

I listened to the audiobook while I simultaneously read the book. Marisa Calin's narration was absolutely superb. Her performance added depth and personality to the characters, making the experience even more immersive.

If you're a fan of historical fiction with a mystery, mark your calendars for October 1st, because this book is a must-read! Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this thrilling adventure.

This second book in a series about Evelyn Redfern follows Evelyn and her partner David as they investigate a murder at Blackthorn Park.

Evelyn’s spunk, tenacity, and fearlessness are back, as she dives in to the investigation with zero qualms. One of my favorite things about this series is our incredible heroine, who feels outspoken and independent for the period of time she lives in. The characters in Kelly’s books are well-written, fully fleshed out characters, and they are intriguing to read about.

The mystery is also well written, with plenty of twists and red herrings along the way. It is cleverly plotted and wraps up neatly.

Thank you to Minotaur for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

BETRAYAL AT BLACKTHORN PARK

EVELYN Redfern has returned from her undercover agent training to investigate the murder of a scientist at Blackthorn Park, which is a secret location for developing new weapons for the British war effort. She is again working with the charming David Poole, who finally is accepting her as his equal. Together, they must uncover a nefarious plot to sabotage the new weaponry, which includes murder. This is a worthy sequel to TRAITOR IN WHITEHALL. I eagerly await the next addition to the delightful series.

I am really enjoying this series by Julia Kelly! Evelyne Redfern is the heroine I didn't know I needed. As a World War II spy, she's doing her part for the British government all while trying to maintain friendships and a "normal" life. This book is a quirky, intriguing mystery centered around beliefs of a thief at work at Blackthorn Park, a secret government research site. What was intended to be a quick trip turns into a bit of a longer journey when people start dying. Evelyne works with her previous partner, David, with the aim of solving the mystery... and (spoiler) they do! There were great twists and turns in this book. As always with Julia Kelly, the writing is excellent and the research into the time period is exceptional. I was invested in every page of this book, and was so happy to read the ending and realize the door is open for another installment in this series.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions are my own.

Betrayal at Blackhorn Park by Julia Kelly is another fascinating historical fiction novel by one of my favorite authors. I adore the author's writing style and intelligently weaved stories. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and I loved this novel!

** “It’s terrible the things we do to one another. Simply terrible.” **

Julia Kelly continues her Evelyne Redfern series immediately following the first installation in “Betrayal at Blackthorn Park.”

Evelyne has now completed her Special Operations Executive’s training, where she was schooled in skills like surveillance, weapons training, explosives and combat, to help England continue its efforts in World War II. She is sent on her first mission, to figure out who has been stealing materials at the secretive Blackthorn Park, a place where munitions are being made. Her handler is David Poole, her former partner, who is disappointed to have to stay behind and work behind the scenes.

But when an unexpected death occurs while she’s investigating Blackthorn, David joins her to figure out what’s truly happening.

What follows is a fun yet suspenseful mystery filled with twists and turns and misdirections, keeping the reader guessing the who and why until the very end. Kelly creates intriguing characters, as well as a great plot that reminds us of the power of greed; to never give up; and to believe in one’s self.

Fans of books like T.A. Willberg’s “Marion Lane” series, and authors like Rachel McMillan, Kate Quinn and J’nell Ciesielski will love “Betrayal at Blackthorn Park,” which is due out Oct. 1.

Five stars out of five.

Minotaur Books provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

Evelyne Redfern works for the British Government as a spy during the beginnings of World War II. She has officially passed her training and is officially a Special Operation Executive. Her very first assignment as a field agent is to investigate suspicious thefts at a highly secret government research and development site. The site of this secret government facility is at Blackthorn Park, Sussex, England. Another main character is David Poole who we were introduced to us in book one. He is very much by the book type of employee. Evelyn is a little bit more spur of the moment. The combination of these two agents is a delight.

Evelyn soon realizes that there is more than theft going on at Blackthorn Park. There is an urgency to solve this quickly since it is a secret facility and that Winston Churchill is arriving in several days for a demonstration of the newest weapons that will be used in war against Germany. David comes in to assist Evelyn.

I very much appreciate Julia Kelly’s writing style and her crafting of an intriguing story. I love that the major character is a heroine. Ms. Kelly’s characters are rich, deep, smart, determined and likeable. I also like that Ms. Kelly’s research into this historical time frame was excellent. The sabotage, the reconnaissance and espionage were gripping. The story is woven so well. You really aren’t sure who the trouble maker is. The story keeps you interested until the end.

If you are looking for a female spy who you can follow I believe Evelyn Redfern is that spy. Since Susan Elia MacNeal just wrapped up my favorite spy series about Maggie Hope, I am pleased to have found Evelyn Refern. I think you will too.

I can’t wait to see what Ms. Kelly has in store for us next! Well done. I would like to thank Ms. Kelly, St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Betrayal at Blackthorn Park is the second book with Evelyne Redfern as the main character. By Julia Kelly this young woman is intelligent, observant and eager to help Britain to win the war. Imagine my surprise when Evelyne finding another body in an office. Not exactly like the first book but if I was her, I would begin to want someone to go with me to any offices where I was assigned. I wasn’t surprised but glad to see David Poole as her handler in this story. There is a strong chemistry between these two while both try to avoid any recognition of the fact.

A great story reminding the reader that spies can be anywhere. Suspense and danger that directly affect the war effort has Evelyne putting the clues today famously. Always Evelyne does her part right where she is needed. Excellent look at a different aspect of WWII.

A second in series for this historical mystery and it is as filled with drama and intrigue as the first. Set in England during the World War II era is the perfect place for imperfect characters. Redfern and Poole are once again partnered when murder and a puzzle abounds. It is a riveting and page turning experience as they investigate and uncover clues on their way to unmasking a killer. Readers will go right along with them as they try to correctly guess until all is revealed.

Book Review: Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly

For fans of historical mysteries, particularly those with an espionage twist, Betrayal at Blackthorn Park is an enjoyable read. It’s reminiscent of Susan Elia MacNeal’s WWII series featuring a female spy, and Kelly’s ability to blend historical intrigue with character-driven drama makes it a standout in the genre. This was a perfect pick for my Spy vs Spy September Readathon that I host on my YouTube channel, Bookeemonsters, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well-paced, atmospheric mystery with a strong, clever heroine.

Julia Kelly’s Betrayal at Blackthorn Park, the second entry in her historical mystery series, is a thoroughly enjoyable and captivating read. Fresh off "spy training", Evelyne Redfern, former typist for Winston Churchill, finds herself in what initially seems like a mundane first assignment—a security test at Blackthorn Park, a requisitioned manor in Sussex. However, Blackthorn Park holds far more secrets than she anticipated, and her mission takes a turn when she finds the chief engineer dead. David Poole is tasked to be her handler, though he'd prefer to be in the field with her to keep her safe.

Kelly crafts a good balance between historical detail and suspense. The WWII backdrop is skillfully woven into the narrative, adding layers of tension and urgency. Evelyne’s character is a the right tone for the time —resourceful, intelligent, and with a keen sense of determination, she brings a fresh perspective to the world of espionage. Her evolving relationship with David Poole, both frustrating and charming, adds a touch of wit and romantic tension, making their partnership all the more enjoyable to follow.

The mystery itself is deftly plotted, with plenty of twists and red herrings to keep readers guessing. The stakes feel real, especially given the high-profile presence of Winston Churchill and the vital weapons research happening at Blackthorn Park.

Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing an ARC of this novel. All opinions are my own.

I enjoyed the first book in this series, A Traitor In Whitehall, and was excited to read this latest installment, which did not disappoint! Immersive and intriguing!

Former typist Evelyne has completed rigorous training after being recruited for spy work to help England win WWII. Her first assignment should have been straightforward, only a day. However, it becomes a much more complex and dangerous situation, and David Poole has been assigned as her handler.

Set in the early 1940s, the world-building in this is fantastic. The level of historical detail drops you into time and place, from the dialogue to the clothing to the wartime concessions and the era's technology. Kelly clearly does a lot of research, and not only does it set the stage, but it also heightens the sense of urgency and high stakes of the investigation.

Evelyne is a strong, capable FMC. She wants to do an excellent job on her first official assignment, which sometimes leads to moments of overconfidence, but she also shows her determination and bravery. I appreciated that we also see conflicting emotions in Evelyne as she grapples with living a double life. It's not easy for her to keep so many secrets from her best friend, Moira, yet Evelyne knows her actions are for the greater good. There is also a hint of romance in her chemistry with David despite the two maintaining their professionalism.

The mystery is very well-plotted, complex, and engaging. This is not an easy one to guess, and the red herrings are very well done. The ending has me looking forward to book three!

Marisa Calin does a fantastic job narrating the audiobook. There are several characters, and she makes them easy to differentiate. She adds to the suspense and intrigue and makes the story come alive.

Thank you to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the gifted book and audiobook!

Evelyne Redfern has been trained as a field agent to help Britain during the war years and in this book she receives her first assignment on her own to explore a potential security breach at Blackthorn Park. Her training partner David is tasked with supervising her work from afar. As Evelyne begins to explore Blackthorn Park, she is quickly thrown straight into the action when she hears a gunshot and finds the chief engineer dead. Her quick thinking puts her and David in the drivers seat as lead investigators, and they begin to question other employees and uncover more and more secrets. This was a fun page-turner as the reader tries to figure out "who did it?"

I am late in writing my review. I couldn't stop thinking about this wonderful WW2 mystery. The author stumped me. I went back and reread the story looking for what I might have missed. I searched for glimpses and hits of whoever did it. I came to the conclusion that author writes a brilliant mystery that kept me entertained, not once, but twice in a week's time.

Evelyne is going on her first solo mission after completing training. They sent her to Blackthorn Park thinking it would be a simple investigation. They sent her thinking she would find the weaknesses in security and get back on a train. Her only communication would be with David as her handler.

There is nothing simple when it comes to Evelyne Redfren. She and David soon find themselves deep in a murder investigation. A secret weapons development location has more secrets than anyone expected. The story grabbed me from the minute the shot was heard by Evelyne. I was excited for every layer of drama as they attempted to discover why someone would kill the man in charge. So many suspects. So many misdirections. I loved every word.

The story was addictive. The story was thrilling. The story had wonderful characters. That ending---Oh My Word. How long do I have to wait to see what that is all about. Hopefully not too long.

4.25/5 ⭐️

In this second outing of the Evelyne Redfern series, Evelyne takes on her first official assignment following her spy craft training to assist her country during WWII. She is tasked with investigating the efficacy of security measures at a weapons testing facility in rural Sussex, but ends up being plunged into a double murder investigation along with her handler/partner David Poole.

I am continuing to enjoy this series, especially the characters (Evelyne is wonderful!). The plot lines are engaging and well thought out, the writing flows smoothly and is a pleasure to read and the banter and developing relationship between the mains is fun to watch.

Looking forward to (hopefully) many more adventures from this intrepid heroine.

My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books for providing the free early arc of Betrayal at Blackthorn Park for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Oct. 1, 2024
“Betrayal at Blackthorn Park” is the second novel in the Evelyne Redfern (“The Parisian Orphan”) series of novels by historical fiction writer Julia Kelly. I loved Kelly’s “A Traitor in Whitehall” (the first novel in the series) and there was no doubt I was going to eagerly devour her new novel as well.
Former typist Evelyne Redfern has spent the last few months training to be a spy and now she has been called into action. Her first mission is to infiltrate the illustrious Blackthorn Park, a quiet manor house in Sussex, to search for a thief amongst its residents. To further her disappointment that she is not involved in something more exciting, Evelyne’s partner, David, accompanies her on this mission, but is serving as her supervisor. While at Blackthorn Park, however, Evelyne finds the chief engineer dead in his office, and then another body is found shortly after, both staged to look like suicides but Evelyne has a gut feeling that something more sinister is at work. With only days until the Prime Minister himself is coming to Blackthorn, Evelyne must race the clock to uncover what secrets Blackthorn holds within its walls.
The historical-female detective fiction that is “Blackthorn” had me intrigued from the start. I loved Evelyne in Kelly’s first novel and getting to know her was half the fun, so I would think twice before skipping the first entry in the series! Evelyne’s friends and coworkers and other characters from the previous book make an appearance, and I’m so grateful Kelly didn’t forget them (especially Evelyne’s best friend and roommate, Moira).
Kelly writes an exquisite murder mystery that fans of Agatha Christie will consume with fervour. Add to that the spunky, young, underestimated female spy that is our protagonist with some sprinkles of humor and intrigue, and Kelly takes historical fiction to the next level. I immediately connected with Evelyne in the first novel, and cheered for her throughout this one, as well.
“Blackthorn” was full of action, adventure, drama and mystery and I couldn’t help but turn the pages! Kelly has added her own flair to an inundated, often predictable detective fiction genre, and I can’t seem to get enough. This novel made obvious hints to another Redfern novel, and I will be keeping my eyes open for it!

I'll be honest, I'm not sure what happened between my enthusiastic five stars for book one and my middle-of-the-road three stars for this second book featuring amateur sleuth Evelyne Redfern. Was I in a really generous mood the first time around, or am I in a particularly parsimonious one this time? All I know is that, despite my general love of historical mysteries with strong female characters, Evelyne came across as flat and tedious in this entry, and the mystery - theft and sabotage at a secret WWII munitions research lab - failed to keep me engaged. The book starts with Evelyne having just completed her spy training, where, we are told, she kicked ass. She and David are paired up to investigate mysterious goings-on at Blackthorn Park, and they're on a tight timeline to clear things up before a planned visit from Churchill. I will still probably read book 3, but I hope Kelly can give her characters a little more depth and dimension in the next entry. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for a digital review copy.

I listened to the first half of this book and read the second half since I received both. I liked both modes, but perhaps the reading on my own better. I enjoy this series and find the main characters Evelyne and David to be likable and clever. Looking forward to the series continuing.