flawed but promising

Mr Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal
Rating: 3 stars (out of 5)
Genre: historical fiction
Review: This book should have been a fun read.  It deals with some of the most interesting aspects of WWII-era London including cryptography and Churchill's offices at 10 Downing St. and adds the little-discussed element of IRA activity in London during this time.  Unfortunately, the book's numerous flaws overshadow the positive aspects.  MacNeal takes several shortcuts to get characters were she needs them and to move the narrative along.

However, as the first book in a projected series about Maggie Hope, it shows promise.  As MacNeal settles into her narrative talents (which are certainly evident, despite this book's shortcomings), she will figure out to avoid the pitfalls of narrative convenience and lovers of strong female detectives in historical fiction will have another series to become engrossed in.

FTC Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for this review.