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Electra McDonnell #4
Locked in Pursuit
The fourth instalment in the delightful series following safecracker Electra McDonnell fighting Nazis at every turn as World War II looms over London.
Safecracker Ellie McDonnell hasn’t seen Major Ramsey―her handsome but aloof handler in the British government―since their tumultuous mission together three months before, but when she hears about a suspicious robbery in London she feels compelled to contact him. Together they discover that a rash of burglaries in the city all lead back to a hotbed of spies in the neutral city Lisbon, Portugal, and an unknown object brought to London by a mysterious courier.
As the thieves become more desperate and their crimes escalate, it becomes imperative that Ellie and Ramsey must beat them at their own game. Fighting shadowy assailants, enemy agents, and the mutual attraction they’ve agreed not to acknowledge, Ellie and Ramsey work together to learn if it truly takes a thief to catch a thief.
Safecracker Ellie McDonnell hasn’t seen Major Ramsey―her handsome but aloof handler in the British government―since their tumultuous mission together three months before, but when she hears about a suspicious robbery in London she feels compelled to contact him. Together they discover that a rash of burglaries in the city all lead back to a hotbed of spies in the neutral city Lisbon, Portugal, and an unknown object brought to London by a mysterious courier.
As the thieves become more desperate and their crimes escalate, it becomes imperative that Ellie and Ramsey must beat them at their own game. Fighting shadowy assailants, enemy agents, and the mutual attraction they’ve agreed not to acknowledge, Ellie and Ramsey work together to learn if it truly takes a thief to catch a thief.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2024
175 people are currently reading
5378 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 596 reviews
July 10, 2024
Light summer read with the mystery being secondary to the interactions between the Major and Ellie. It was easy to pick up and put down as I didn't feel very invested in the characters or the mystery. It was a light read with a twist at the end. I would rate it 3.5* and will continue the series.
March 31, 2024
I was totally sucked into the story from the get-go! Weaver's writing is like a magnet, pulling you into Ellie's world of spy games and danger. Seriously, I couldn't flip through the pages fast enough to see what Ellie and Major Ramsey would get up to next!
Set against the backdrop of World War II London, this fourth installment in the series follows the intrepid safecracker, Ellie McDonnell, as she finds herself embroiled in yet another dangerous mission.
When Ellie discovers a string of suspicious robberies in London, she knows she can't turn a blind eye, despite not having seen her enigmatic handler, Major Ramsey, in months. Teaming up once again, Ellie and Ramsey delve into a world of espionage, tracing the robberies back to a hotbed of spies in neutral Lisbon, Portugal. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of wartime espionage, their partnership is tested, and sparks fly between them, even as they try to deny their mutual attraction.
One of the highlights of this series is the depth of the characters and their evolution throughout the story. Ellie is a compelling protagonist, a strong-willed and resourceful woman who is not afraid to take risks. Watching her grapple with her emotions for both Felix and Major Ramsey while staying true to herself is both heartwarming and relatable. And Ramsey, with his brooding demeanor and hidden vulnerabilities, adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
Weaver's attention to historical detail is commendable, immersing readers in the sights and sounds of wartime London. From the air raid sirens to the bustling black markets, the setting comes alive on the page, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
The narrative is fast-paced and suspenseful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. And the ending? Let's just say it left me eager for more, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Ellie's thrilling adventures.
Overall, Locked in Pursuit is a must-read for fans of historical mysteries with a dash of romance. Just be sure to start from the beginning of the series to fully appreciate the character development and intricate plot twists!
Set against the backdrop of World War II London, this fourth installment in the series follows the intrepid safecracker, Ellie McDonnell, as she finds herself embroiled in yet another dangerous mission.
When Ellie discovers a string of suspicious robberies in London, she knows she can't turn a blind eye, despite not having seen her enigmatic handler, Major Ramsey, in months. Teaming up once again, Ellie and Ramsey delve into a world of espionage, tracing the robberies back to a hotbed of spies in neutral Lisbon, Portugal. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of wartime espionage, their partnership is tested, and sparks fly between them, even as they try to deny their mutual attraction.
One of the highlights of this series is the depth of the characters and their evolution throughout the story. Ellie is a compelling protagonist, a strong-willed and resourceful woman who is not afraid to take risks. Watching her grapple with her emotions for both Felix and Major Ramsey while staying true to herself is both heartwarming and relatable. And Ramsey, with his brooding demeanor and hidden vulnerabilities, adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
Weaver's attention to historical detail is commendable, immersing readers in the sights and sounds of wartime London. From the air raid sirens to the bustling black markets, the setting comes alive on the page, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
The narrative is fast-paced and suspenseful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. And the ending? Let's just say it left me eager for more, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Ellie's thrilling adventures.
Overall, Locked in Pursuit is a must-read for fans of historical mysteries with a dash of romance. Just be sure to start from the beginning of the series to fully appreciate the character development and intricate plot twists!
May 15, 2024
Locked in Pursuit, the fourth book in Ashley Weaver’s sophomore mystery series, returns readers to Second World War-era London and the universe of Irish safecracker-turned-spy Electra McDonnell. An ultimatum in the series’ initial book, A Peculiar Combination, explains this about-face: after being caught breaking into a residence, intending to loot the place, the government gives Electra’s lockpicking family the choice to either go behind bars or use their skills to help the war effort. A no-brainer.
Electra has long since grown accustomed to her new role, although she has found herself growing increasingly and inconveniently fond of her aristocratic commanding officer, Major Gabriel Ramsey. The two faced death and their growing feelings for one another at the end of book three (Playing It Safe), but during his months-long recovery from bullet wounds, Ellie hasn’t heard from Ramsey.
Mysteries in the Electra McDonnell series customarily begin with a knock on the door from the major, briefing Ellie in as few words as possible about their newest mission, but this time it’s our heroine who picks up on something curious in the newspaper: a robbery that her family didn’t hear about in the underground crime circles they’re still looped into, even now, as law-abiding citizens.
Click here to continue reading my review on Open Letters Review!
Electra has long since grown accustomed to her new role, although she has found herself growing increasingly and inconveniently fond of her aristocratic commanding officer, Major Gabriel Ramsey. The two faced death and their growing feelings for one another at the end of book three (Playing It Safe), but during his months-long recovery from bullet wounds, Ellie hasn’t heard from Ramsey.
Mysteries in the Electra McDonnell series customarily begin with a knock on the door from the major, briefing Ellie in as few words as possible about their newest mission, but this time it’s our heroine who picks up on something curious in the newspaper: a robbery that her family didn’t hear about in the underground crime circles they’re still looped into, even now, as law-abiding citizens.
Click here to continue reading my review on Open Letters Review!
June 9, 2024
I have been lucky enough to have read all four books in the Electra McDonnell series now and in my opinion each new installment kept getting better and better. Locked in Pursuit was perhaps the best book in this series so far. Ashley Weaver masterfully wove a very captivating spy thriller with just enough historical details to make this book feel authentic and believable. All the old characters were back plus a few new ones that just added a new dimension to this well plotted mystery thriller. I particularly enjoyed meeting Major Ramsey’s twin sister and learning more about Major Ramsey’s earlier life through her eyes and seeing the friendship that Ellie and her started to forge. I was glad that Ashley Weaver continued to portray the undeniable romantic connection between Major Ramsey and Ellie. I’m still hoping they will find a way to make their feelings known to each other and finally not let anything interfere with them. Locked in Pursuit was set in London in the cold winter months of 1941 while German planes continued to bomb London, blackout curtains were strictly enforced and food rationing had become the norm.
Ellie McDonnell had not had any contact with Major Ramsey for the last several months. It’s not that she hasn’t thought about him in all that time but Ellie was becoming concerned that he might have found a replacement for her since the awkwardness of how their last assignment ended. Their last assignment together found Ellie and Major Ramsey sharing a passionate kiss that they both agreed to ignore and erase from their memories. Major Ramsey had also been inflicted with several gun shot wounds that had required him to be hospitalized for a time.
One morning while Ellie was having breakfast with her uncle, an article in the newspaper that her uncle had been reading caught Ellie’s attention. The article in the newspaper described a robbery that occurred during a dinner party. Something about this robbery didn’t seem right to Ellie. Ellie decided that it was time to pay Major Ramsey a visit and see if he had heard about the robbery and what his thoughts were about it. That impulsive meeting with Major Ramsey led him to ask Ellie to join him in working this case. Ellie and Major Ramsey worked together or mostly together to uncover the people that were responsible for that robbery and the others that were committed after the first one. They also discovered that a murder had been committed that was probably associated with the robberies. Major Ramsey, with the help of his contacts, was able to determine that the robberies and the murder had some things in common. For one, everything associated with them had originated in Lisbon, Portugal and the other thing that Major Ramsey learned was that the robbers were meant to retrieve something that had been smuggled into London by an unknown person of interest that flew from Lisbon to London. Would Major Ramsey and Ellie be able to work together again to solve this mystery?
I’m not sure how Ashley Weaver keeps making each book in this series better than the one before it but she has definitely accomplished this in my opinion. Her choice of new characters were a mix of good vs. bad and in some cases evil. The ending of Locked in Pursuit took me by surprise. I was not expecting it to end in a cliff hanger. I only hope that Ashley Weaver writes the next installment in this series quickly so I don’t have to wait too long to find out what is going to happen next. I also hope that Major Ramsey and Ellie will finally embrace their romantic feelings for one another and not find more excuses to ignore them. I really enjoyed reading Locked in Pursuit by Ashley Weaver and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for allowing me to read Locked in Pursuit by Ashley Weaver through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ellie McDonnell had not had any contact with Major Ramsey for the last several months. It’s not that she hasn’t thought about him in all that time but Ellie was becoming concerned that he might have found a replacement for her since the awkwardness of how their last assignment ended. Their last assignment together found Ellie and Major Ramsey sharing a passionate kiss that they both agreed to ignore and erase from their memories. Major Ramsey had also been inflicted with several gun shot wounds that had required him to be hospitalized for a time.
One morning while Ellie was having breakfast with her uncle, an article in the newspaper that her uncle had been reading caught Ellie’s attention. The article in the newspaper described a robbery that occurred during a dinner party. Something about this robbery didn’t seem right to Ellie. Ellie decided that it was time to pay Major Ramsey a visit and see if he had heard about the robbery and what his thoughts were about it. That impulsive meeting with Major Ramsey led him to ask Ellie to join him in working this case. Ellie and Major Ramsey worked together or mostly together to uncover the people that were responsible for that robbery and the others that were committed after the first one. They also discovered that a murder had been committed that was probably associated with the robberies. Major Ramsey, with the help of his contacts, was able to determine that the robberies and the murder had some things in common. For one, everything associated with them had originated in Lisbon, Portugal and the other thing that Major Ramsey learned was that the robbers were meant to retrieve something that had been smuggled into London by an unknown person of interest that flew from Lisbon to London. Would Major Ramsey and Ellie be able to work together again to solve this mystery?
I’m not sure how Ashley Weaver keeps making each book in this series better than the one before it but she has definitely accomplished this in my opinion. Her choice of new characters were a mix of good vs. bad and in some cases evil. The ending of Locked in Pursuit took me by surprise. I was not expecting it to end in a cliff hanger. I only hope that Ashley Weaver writes the next installment in this series quickly so I don’t have to wait too long to find out what is going to happen next. I also hope that Major Ramsey and Ellie will finally embrace their romantic feelings for one another and not find more excuses to ignore them. I really enjoyed reading Locked in Pursuit by Ashley Weaver and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for allowing me to read Locked in Pursuit by Ashley Weaver through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2024
Electra "Ellie" McDonnell has been on a series-long redemption arc. We met her as a member of a family of thieves who are locksmiths by day and safe-crackers by night. They are asked to assist intelligence agents in thwarting German spies in that first book and they retired their criminal ways for the next three books. In this fourth book in the series, Ellie has her feet in both worlds again, working for the government, but also doing illegal jobs. It's a fascinating development that was unexpected, but understandable.
There's a lot of WW2 fiction out there, but this story is unique and interesting because we have some morally gray, but immensely likeable characters. It's also interesting to ponder how often the government enlisted the aid of criminals to do what their own agents weren't able to do (yet).
The romantic subplot of this series is great and also shows Ellie with her feet in two worlds, though there's a clear first choice in her heart. It's hard to make a "will-they-won't-they" relationship continue after the characters reveal their feelings, but indecision is still an issue here...and it's delicious if you enjoy angst!
This series just keeps getting better than better. The writing is tight and compelling, so it makes for great marathon material if someone wants to start from the beginning before reading this (though it isn't necessary).
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy! Reviews are for readers.
There's a lot of WW2 fiction out there, but this story is unique and interesting because we have some morally gray, but immensely likeable characters. It's also interesting to ponder how often the government enlisted the aid of criminals to do what their own agents weren't able to do (yet).
The romantic subplot of this series is great and also shows Ellie with her feet in two worlds, though there's a clear first choice in her heart. It's hard to make a "will-they-won't-they" relationship continue after the characters reveal their feelings, but indecision is still an issue here...and it's delicious if you enjoy angst!
This series just keeps getting better than better. The writing is tight and compelling, so it makes for great marathon material if someone wants to start from the beginning before reading this (though it isn't necessary).
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy! Reviews are for readers.
November 28, 2023
This 4th installment was so good! Ellie is feeling lost since her last case a few months ago, & she hasn’t heard from Major Ramsay since then. So she takes it upon herself to call on him with something she saw in the papers. After an awkward meeting, the next day the Major hires Ellie to work a case about some questionable robberies that have taken place. German spies? Ellie also still has questions about her parents, will she be one step closer? The main question is: will Ellie and the Major finally express their feelings?? Read this in one sitting, it was a page turner. I really liked that we found out more about Gabriel Ramsay. He’s not such a man cloaked in mystery in this story. I do hope that the next book will find them further along with some romance.
March 18, 2024
This series makes me want to tear my face off in the best of all possible ways. The character and relationship work in this book, in particular, was wonderful and exactly what I want from this series. (Repeated use of full names!! I would like to thank The X-Files for installing that particular button when I was a wee lass.) The set up for the next book is delicious; the change in dynamic from both the point at which we leave their relationship in this novel and the different circumstances of the future mission. My only regret is that it will take another year for us to come back to this world and these characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC.
May 23, 2024
Don’t look to me for objectivity about this series. 😂
August 24, 2024
Electra "Ellie" McDonnell sees an article in the newspaper about a stick-up robbery and decides to tell her estranged handler, Major Gabriel Ramsey, about it. Turns out: spies. Between discovering who smuggled something out of Portugal and into London and is now willing to kill for it, and also owing favors to a bunch of people, and also looking into the mystery of her father's loyalty to England, and also keeping her boyfriend / friend-who-is-a-boy Felix at arm's length, you'd think we're in for a sizable dollop of a story!
....you'd be wrong because Locked in Pursuit superficially bounces off each of the items above without allowing anything to really mature in a meaningful way.
1. Like, y'know, the story of what really happened to her parents: Ellie finds a letter, gets it decoded, and stumbles across a coincidental flower shop that just so happens to be named the same with the same staff as 20+ odd years ago! WOW, HOW LUCKY FOR US ALL. Not only is the actual discovery / connection / "case" just laughably empty, but it's also not necessarily given enough weight for the question of how her father's potential spying may impact Ellie's current spying. Like, it's mentioned but because of how little anything else really matters in this particular setting, this doesn't either.
2. Also the serious lack of judgement shown by Ellie is just frustrating.
3. I remain a hater of first person, I say (ironically).
4. Here's my real frustration with this series, and this book in particular: the exposition and clues are just so clumsily handled. Like, the whole situation with the glove—oh my god. The series of events is this: Ellie goes out. Ellie does a robbery. Ellie goes home. Ellie discovers her glove is missing. She decides it's not a big deal. Other stuff happens. The glove reappears, damning her. SHOCK???
But it's not shocking even a little bit. Because it's so clumsy. It's like playing hide and seek with a toddler: they're being sneaky but you can absolutely (a) see their feet under the curtain, and (b) can hear them laughing.
And, really, if Weaver had just spaced things out a little more with a little more nuance, the plot point totally works! Consider: Ellie goes out. She does a robbery. She goes home. She goes to see the Major. She goes home. She sees Felix. She realizes she's lost her glove. She tries to figure out where and when, and isn't sure, and maybe even feels a tendril of concern, but then something plotty happens and she puts the question of the glove to the side to worry about later. Other stuff happens. The glove reappears, damning her.
This time, it's still not that shocking but at least it's not lit up with blinking neon lights, and it also doesn't make Ellie look like a goddamned fool. And the whole "oh shit where's my glove" doesn't come off like the author announcing "HELLO I AM NOW LOOKING UNDER THE COUCH CUSHIONS I WONDER IF ANYONE IS HIDING THERE" while pretending you don't hear the sound of childish giggling coming from behind you.
5. But there was kissing and I read a whole book and the 4th star is just for me. ♥
....you'd be wrong because Locked in Pursuit superficially bounces off each of the items above without allowing anything to really mature in a meaningful way.
1. Like, y'know, the story of what really happened to her parents: Ellie finds a letter, gets it decoded, and stumbles across a coincidental flower shop that just so happens to be named the same with the same staff as 20+ odd years ago! WOW, HOW LUCKY FOR US ALL. Not only is the actual discovery / connection / "case" just laughably empty, but it's also not necessarily given enough weight for the question of how her father's potential spying may impact Ellie's current spying. Like, it's mentioned but because of how little anything else really matters in this particular setting, this doesn't either.
2. Also the serious lack of judgement shown by Ellie is just frustrating.
3. I remain a hater of first person, I say (ironically).
4. Here's my real frustration with this series, and this book in particular: the exposition and clues are just so clumsily handled. Like, the whole situation with the glove—oh my god. The series of events is this: Ellie goes out. Ellie does a robbery. Ellie goes home. Ellie discovers her glove is missing. She decides it's not a big deal. Other stuff happens. The glove reappears, damning her. SHOCK???
But it's not shocking even a little bit. Because it's so clumsy. It's like playing hide and seek with a toddler: they're being sneaky but you can absolutely (a) see their feet under the curtain, and (b) can hear them laughing.
And, really, if Weaver had just spaced things out a little more with a little more nuance, the plot point totally works! Consider: Ellie goes out. She does a robbery. She goes home. She goes to see the Major. She goes home. She sees Felix. She realizes she's lost her glove. She tries to figure out where and when, and isn't sure, and maybe even feels a tendril of concern, but then something plotty happens and she puts the question of the glove to the side to worry about later. Other stuff happens. The glove reappears, damning her.
This time, it's still not that shocking but at least it's not lit up with blinking neon lights, and it also doesn't make Ellie look like a goddamned fool. And the whole "oh shit where's my glove" doesn't come off like the author announcing "HELLO I AM NOW LOOKING UNDER THE COUCH CUSHIONS I WONDER IF ANYONE IS HIDING THERE" while pretending you don't hear the sound of childish giggling coming from behind you.
5. But there was kissing and I read a whole book and the 4th star is just for me. ♥
October 25, 2023
The fourth book in the Electra McDonnell series was a page-turner. I wish I would have limited myself to one chapter a week so it wouldn't seem so impossibly long until the next book.
I'd highly recommend reading the previous three books in the series as they build upon one another. This one finds Ellie back home in London amidst a frigid January. Ashley Weaver does a wonderful job conveying the mood through the cold.
We get more of a backstory to several things, including a bit of Ellie's parents and also Ramsey's family, as we are introduced to one of his sisters. I came to like Ramsey's character more, while actually getting more irritated with Ellie. She is understandably under a cloud over the revelation about her father, which we learned in the last book, and is more affected by what happened in Sunderland than she realizes. However, her poor decision-making and feeling the need to keep things secret makes quite a mess. And she shares a defect with Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice, as Mr. Darcy pointed out, which was "wilfully to misunderstand" everyone but particularly Ramsey, in Ellie's case. To be honest, if the back and forth of their relationship continues in the fifth book, I'm not sure I'll bother reading a sixth.
The mystery storyline was thrilling and fast-paced. I really enjoyed the details of it and learning a bit of the situation in Portugal during WWII. And I have to add, I love the titles in this series, very clever.
***
Note on mistakes/discrepancies I found:
- In books 1 & 2, Major Ramsey's residence is in Belgravia. This book puts him in Mayfair now, which is close to Belgravia but not the same neighborhood. At one point Ellie gets off at the Bond Street station but if Ramsey still lives in Belgravia, that station is quite far. I'd suggest she take the Underground to Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge or Sloane Square instead.
- On page 130 of the hardcover edition of Playing it Safe, Major Ramsey says his family are all safe in Cumberland. In this book, his sister several times references going back to Lincolnshire, which is not at all near Cumberland.
- In chapter sixteen, Ellie talks of going to the Major's in the afternoon but Constance greets her with "Good morning".
I'd highly recommend reading the previous three books in the series as they build upon one another. This one finds Ellie back home in London amidst a frigid January. Ashley Weaver does a wonderful job conveying the mood through the cold.
We get more of a backstory to several things, including a bit of Ellie's parents and also Ramsey's family, as we are introduced to one of his sisters. I came to like Ramsey's character more, while actually getting more irritated with Ellie. She is understandably under a cloud over the revelation about her father, which we learned in the last book, and is more affected by what happened in Sunderland than she realizes. However, her poor decision-making and feeling the need to keep things secret makes quite a mess. And she shares a defect with Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice, as Mr. Darcy pointed out, which was "wilfully to misunderstand" everyone but particularly Ramsey, in Ellie's case. To be honest, if the back and forth of their relationship continues in the fifth book, I'm not sure I'll bother reading a sixth.
The mystery storyline was thrilling and fast-paced. I really enjoyed the details of it and learning a bit of the situation in Portugal during WWII. And I have to add, I love the titles in this series, very clever.
***
Note on mistakes/discrepancies I found:
- In books 1 & 2, Major Ramsey's residence is in Belgravia. This book puts him in Mayfair now, which is close to Belgravia but not the same neighborhood. At one point Ellie gets off at the Bond Street station but if Ramsey still lives in Belgravia, that station is quite far. I'd suggest she take the Underground to Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge or Sloane Square instead.
- On page 130 of the hardcover edition of Playing it Safe, Major Ramsey says his family are all safe in Cumberland. In this book, his sister several times references going back to Lincolnshire, which is not at all near Cumberland.
- In chapter sixteen, Ellie talks of going to the Major's in the afternoon but Constance greets her with "Good morning".
August 26, 2024
Locked in Pursuit is the 4th book in the Electra McDonnell series and I have enjoyed them all. Safecracker Electra McDonnell has been fighting Nazis as World War II looms over London, but has not seen her handler, Major Ramsey, since her last mission with him, three months ago. She recently heard about a suspicious robbery in London, so contacts him to see if they should be investigating. They discover many more robberies all leading back to a group of spies operating out of Lisbon, Portugal. There is also a mysterious object that has been brought to London my a courier that seems to be wanted by this group. As the spies and thieves become more desperate, Ellie and Ramsey must figure out what they are after before anyone else is killed. Is the saying right: It takes a thief to catch a thief?
I found this book to center more on Ellie's and Ramsey's relationship than on the mystery, unlike the previous books. Each book has had that tension between them ramping up a bit more. In this book, Ellie turns to some shady characters for help, but must repay them for their help, and finds herself crossing the line into illegal activities. When it is determined that the Germans are after a map, Ellie and her uncle are in a race to find it before anyone else. There is a murder in the hotel, as they get closer to finding what they are looking for. Who can they trust? The death of Ellie's father is still a storyline that is smoldering in this story, which makes her more relatable for me. There is a twist at the end that hints at what is coming in the next book. I enjoyed this one, but not as much as the previous books. I am looking forward to what is to come in the next installment.
I found this book to center more on Ellie's and Ramsey's relationship than on the mystery, unlike the previous books. Each book has had that tension between them ramping up a bit more. In this book, Ellie turns to some shady characters for help, but must repay them for their help, and finds herself crossing the line into illegal activities. When it is determined that the Germans are after a map, Ellie and her uncle are in a race to find it before anyone else. There is a murder in the hotel, as they get closer to finding what they are looking for. Who can they trust? The death of Ellie's father is still a storyline that is smoldering in this story, which makes her more relatable for me. There is a twist at the end that hints at what is coming in the next book. I enjoyed this one, but not as much as the previous books. I am looking forward to what is to come in the next installment.
May 26, 2024
Another great entry in this WWII historical mystery series.
A few thoughts:
Oh, Ellie, Ellie, Ellie--you sure shot yourself in the foot in this one.
I had to agree with Major Ramsey, when he exclaimed (with tired exasperation) "oh Ellie, why must you turn everything into a fight". She has a possessiveness about this case because she brought it to his attention and gets her feathers ruffled anytime it looks like she won't be in on all the action. I'll be happy when she finally gets her temper under control (she's trying, but isn't there yet). Likewise, I'm looking forward to her developing the ability to think things through--she made some unwise choices here that really came back to bite her in the butt.
On a more upbeat note--I loved Ramsey's sister!
I liked that her personal investigation into her father's history is progressing, but I'm frustrated by her refusal to tell Major Ramsey about it. Especially after her snooping causes both of them so much trouble. (I have my own theories about what her father was up to...)
The next book promises to be very interesting. I want that book soonest!
A few thoughts:
Oh, Ellie, Ellie, Ellie--you sure shot yourself in the foot in this one.
I had to agree with Major Ramsey, when he exclaimed (with tired exasperation) "oh Ellie, why must you turn everything into a fight". She has a possessiveness about this case because she brought it to his attention and gets her feathers ruffled anytime it looks like she won't be in on all the action. I'll be happy when she finally gets her temper under control (she's trying, but isn't there yet). Likewise, I'm looking forward to her developing the ability to think things through--she made some unwise choices here that really came back to bite her in the butt.
On a more upbeat note--I loved Ramsey's sister!
I liked that her personal investigation into her father's history is progressing, but I'm frustrated by her refusal to tell Major Ramsey about it. Especially after her snooping causes both of them so much trouble. (I have my own theories about what her father was up to...)
The next book promises to be very interesting. I want that book soonest!
May 25, 2024
Ladies and gentlemen, for the first time ever I have started and finished a book entirely in ONE DAY! I spent an entire day reading this book in a cozy cabin which probably enhanced this rating even more, but wow. Ashley Weaver’s done it again with this 4th book, the TENSION WAS OFF THE CHARTS. 🔥🔥 Ashley we need you to start a romance series next ok? Please? The mystery plot interwoven with the romance was just so page-turning. I cannot wait for the next book!!
May 25, 2024
We're finally making progress with the romance!
Clean and a little bit cheesy, but overall just another fun addition to the series.
Clean and a little bit cheesy, but overall just another fun addition to the series.
March 30, 2024
I'm equally happy and regretting reading an ARC of this cause while I couldn't wait to jump back into Electra's world, now I have to wait even longer for the next book!!
Anyway, I adored Locked in Pursuit; it exceeded my expectations after Playing it Safe, which was also a 5-star read for me. The mystery was fun, with some good twists and turns and lots of hijinx and heisting! I also liked that Weaver is bringing more of the mystery surrounding Electra's parents to the main story instead of a side plot at the end of the book. I also appreciated that we got more insight into Ramsey's past and family.
But the true highlight of the book for me was ELECTRA AND RAMSEY! The angst was top-notch in this book! Their relationship took one step forward only to then two steps back. While I understood Electra's and Ramsey's positions, I still wanted to shake some sense into them at the end.
My less coherent Electra/Gabriel thoughts:
The book ended on the biggest cliffhanger of the series so far. I seriously need the next book now!
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for providing the ARC.
Anyway, I adored Locked in Pursuit; it exceeded my expectations after Playing it Safe, which was also a 5-star read for me. The mystery was fun, with some good twists and turns and lots of hijinx and heisting! I also liked that Weaver is bringing more of the mystery surrounding Electra's parents to the main story instead of a side plot at the end of the book. I also appreciated that we got more insight into Ramsey's past and family.
But the true highlight of the book for me was ELECTRA AND RAMSEY! The angst was top-notch in this book! Their relationship took one step forward only to then two steps back. While I understood Electra's and Ramsey's positions, I still wanted to shake some sense into them at the end.
My less coherent Electra/Gabriel thoughts:
The book ended on the biggest cliffhanger of the series so far. I seriously need the next book now!
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for providing the ARC.
June 6, 2025
Reread 6.5.25. So READY for the finale. Hopefully I can get to it this weekend.
Read 5.18.25. Yes! Some romance development! And angst! Feelings getting messier! A clear setup for the next book!
I am very satisfied.
Read 5.18.25. Yes! Some romance development! And angst! Feelings getting messier! A clear setup for the next book!
I am very satisfied.
February 17, 2024
Ashley Weaver’s series featuring safecracker-turned-spy Electra “Ellie” McDonnell was supposed to end as a trilogy; however, when Playing It Safe, the third novel in the series, ended on a cliffhanger, fans realized that there would have to be a fourth. What joy! (And there has to be a fifth, as well — I, for one, can’t wait — as Locked in Pursuit foreshadows the next book, to be set on the Continent.)
A ruthless gang — likely connected to Nazis — is desperately looking for something smuggled into England from Portugal. But what is it? Readers will enjoy every minute of the quest.
In this book, readers will also anticipate the will-they/won’t-they whisper of a romance between Ellie and tall, blond and handsome Major Gabriel Ramsey. Can independent, improvising Ellie and the by-the-book major make a go of it? You’ll be on the edge of your seat to the very last page finding out.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur Press in exchange for an honest review.
A ruthless gang — likely connected to Nazis — is desperately looking for something smuggled into England from Portugal. But what is it? Readers will enjoy every minute of the quest.
In this book, readers will also anticipate the will-they/won’t-they whisper of a romance between Ellie and tall, blond and handsome Major Gabriel Ramsey. Can independent, improvising Ellie and the by-the-book major make a go of it? You’ll be on the edge of your seat to the very last page finding out.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur Press in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2025
I can't comprehend that there's only one book left and I feel like so much has to happen still?
Despite the dreaminess of the romance in this one, I think it's my least favourite so far (which doesn't mean a lot as it's still a solid 4 star rating). I didn't love the mystery here and I felt anxious for most of the book because I knew Ellie's side jobs would come back to haunt her and I felt like I was just waiting for the end for the fuse to blow. And then it did and I *still* was not at all prepared for it.
To make matters worse, when the Major turns up at her house to ask what else she's involved in, she literally reasons "Even though my hiding things and not being honest is what came between us, I can obviously never tell him the truth about this now."
*pulls hair out*
I cannot with this, just talk to him and tell him, Ellie!! You are killing me over here.
But oh, her realisation about her feelings right after he dismissed her ... it was so good. And Ramsey's sister! And the French guy and Archie Blandings! There was a lot to love here, but my frustration with Ellie is making me drop a star.
Despite the dreaminess of the romance in this one, I think it's my least favourite so far (which doesn't mean a lot as it's still a solid 4 star rating). I didn't love the mystery here and I felt anxious for most of the book because I knew Ellie's side jobs would come back to haunt her and I felt like I was just waiting for the end for the fuse to blow. And then it did and I *still* was not at all prepared for it.
To make matters worse, when the Major turns up at her house to ask what else she's involved in, she literally reasons "Even though my hiding things and not being honest is what came between us, I can obviously never tell him the truth about this now."
*pulls hair out*
I cannot with this, just talk to him and tell him, Ellie!! You are killing me over here.
But oh, her realisation about her feelings right after he dismissed her ... it was so good. And Ramsey's sister! And the French guy and Archie Blandings! There was a lot to love here, but my frustration with Ellie is making me drop a star.
November 2, 2024
OH MY LANTA
I mean… 5 stars for sure. But I have to get my thoughts together to be able to write a review. What a ride.
Update:
I've had a book hangover for 3 days. And writing a review is proving to be quite difficult because I don't want to give any spoilers! What I can say is that had I been reading this book in paper form, there was one point where I would have slammed it shut and tossed it across the room. Now, that might not sound like a good thing, but listen - that is a sign that the author made me feel things that I didn't want to feel and honestly, I think that's a compliment. haha! I also would have immediately walked across the room to pick it back up because I had to know what would happen. There were times that I held my breath and tried to read faster to find out what would happen. We're introduced to a few new side characters that I adored. Noelle and Aristide were fantastic. And the ending! Y'all.... the ending! That's all I can say about that. I am most definitely looking forward to the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own. Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC.
I mean… 5 stars for sure. But I have to get my thoughts together to be able to write a review. What a ride.
Update:
I've had a book hangover for 3 days. And writing a review is proving to be quite difficult because I don't want to give any spoilers! What I can say is that had I been reading this book in paper form, there was one point where I would have slammed it shut and tossed it across the room. Now, that might not sound like a good thing, but listen - that is a sign that the author made me feel things that I didn't want to feel and honestly, I think that's a compliment. haha! I also would have immediately walked across the room to pick it back up because I had to know what would happen. There were times that I held my breath and tried to read faster to find out what would happen. We're introduced to a few new side characters that I adored. Noelle and Aristide were fantastic. And the ending! Y'all.... the ending! That's all I can say about that. I am most definitely looking forward to the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own. Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC.
December 11, 2024
I AM OBSESSED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Gooooood heavens I am upset that I am caught up on this series because I NEED THE LAST BOOK. I loved this installment!! It was another amazing addition. I am loving Ellie and Ramsey’s journey. I love all of the mystery. I love the family members and friendships. There is not one bad thing I have to say about this book. I JUST WANT TO BEG EVERYONE TO GO READ IT.
I won’t say much else since this is the fourth book in a series. The progressive character arcs and overall plot line has been fantastic though. Each book has my full attention and I love how quick of a read they are. It’s a series I didn’t know I needed and now can’t stop thinking about.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Mystery + Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Content Warnings: WW2 themes, gun and weapons violence
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Gooooood heavens I am upset that I am caught up on this series because I NEED THE LAST BOOK. I loved this installment!! It was another amazing addition. I am loving Ellie and Ramsey’s journey. I love all of the mystery. I love the family members and friendships. There is not one bad thing I have to say about this book. I JUST WANT TO BEG EVERYONE TO GO READ IT.
I won’t say much else since this is the fourth book in a series. The progressive character arcs and overall plot line has been fantastic though. Each book has my full attention and I love how quick of a read they are. It’s a series I didn’t know I needed and now can’t stop thinking about.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Mystery + Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Content Warnings: WW2 themes, gun and weapons violence
October 23, 2023
Ashley Weaver likes to play with my emotions and it's going to take all the way until the NEXT book for me to recover!!!!
I would highly recommend for readers to start with the previous books in the Electra McDonnell series (especially the last one, #3) before they dive into this - not because of confusion - but mostly for the opportunity to really discover and understand the dynamics of all the main characters and how all their pieces are currently coming together. Example: I personally found Electra to be a more emotional and reckless soul in this book when she wasn't so much in the past, but she's understandably this way now bc of the events that took place towards the end of book #3.
This was overall another great work of mystery, historical espionage, and romance all rolled into one!
Thank you Netgalley and Minotaur for the ARC!
I would highly recommend for readers to start with the previous books in the Electra McDonnell series (especially the last one, #3) before they dive into this - not because of confusion - but mostly for the opportunity to really discover and understand the dynamics of all the main characters and how all their pieces are currently coming together. Example: I personally found Electra to be a more emotional and reckless soul in this book when she wasn't so much in the past, but she's understandably this way now bc of the events that took place towards the end of book #3.
This was overall another great work of mystery, historical espionage, and romance all rolled into one!
Thank you Netgalley and Minotaur for the ARC!
May 21, 2024
5⭐️. I am going to try not to spoiler anything for anyone. I hope more people find and fall in love with this series like I have so that Ashley Weaver will be encouraged to write this series more quickly.
What I liked: I liked Ellie’s increasing confidence in her role on the team. We get to see her shine this novel both as safe cracker and increasingly an agent while also getting to see her ties to the criminal world she came from. I was also relieved she’s finally made a choice on who she is in love with. The love triangle of books 1-3 was getting old.
I also liked some of the new charismatic supporting characters introduced in this book, particularly the Major’s twin. The mystery itself was fun this go round, not super complicated, but I don’t need it to be to enjoy the adventure. Overall, I liked this book better than the last. It had all the elements I enjoyed from books 1-3: the time period, setting, and strong willed, determined, and at times mysterious characters.
What I liked less: The state of her romantic relationship (no spoilers). Why?!!! 🙈 I also continue to not enjoy the secondary mystery about Ellie’s father’s death. It muddies the water at times. Let me focus on the current events already without the mess that came before! It detracts for me from what Ellie and the team are doing now and the interactions she could be having with the other main characters.
I need the next book now please! The wait is going to kill me. 🥺
What I liked: I liked Ellie’s increasing confidence in her role on the team. We get to see her shine this novel both as safe cracker and increasingly an agent while also getting to see her ties to the criminal world she came from. I was also relieved she’s finally made a choice on who she is in love with. The love triangle of books 1-3 was getting old.
I also liked some of the new charismatic supporting characters introduced in this book, particularly the Major’s twin. The mystery itself was fun this go round, not super complicated, but I don’t need it to be to enjoy the adventure. Overall, I liked this book better than the last. It had all the elements I enjoyed from books 1-3: the time period, setting, and strong willed, determined, and at times mysterious characters.
What I liked less: The state of her romantic relationship (no spoilers). Why?!!! 🙈 I also continue to not enjoy the secondary mystery about Ellie’s father’s death. It muddies the water at times. Let me focus on the current events already without the mess that came before! It detracts for me from what Ellie and the team are doing now and the interactions she could be having with the other main characters.
I need the next book now please! The wait is going to kill me. 🥺
May 16, 2024
Death and German agents!
The report of a puzzling robbery at a Diplomat’s dinner party has Electra McDonnell suspicious. Nothing adds up. None of her contacts have heard anything. (Electra had been a jewel thief and safecracker until military intelligence recruited her and her family to use their skills as part of the war effort.)
Having not heard from her recently injured handler, the aloof Major Gabriel Ramsey, for some months, Electra decides to approach him about the matter.
(There is the slight aspect of a growing attraction between Electra and Major Ramsey!)
There’s also the history of Electra’s mother. She was a condemned murderer, pregnant with Electra. Electra has been following clues trying to find out what the truth was behind what her mother’s actions.
Electra’s visit to the Major leads to the uncovering of German spies looking for something important that may have come from Lisbon. The mystery is what are they after?
Spies, glamour and suspected undercover foreign agents are all grist for the mill.
Intrigue, danger and romantic tension stalks the pages.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
The report of a puzzling robbery at a Diplomat’s dinner party has Electra McDonnell suspicious. Nothing adds up. None of her contacts have heard anything. (Electra had been a jewel thief and safecracker until military intelligence recruited her and her family to use their skills as part of the war effort.)
Having not heard from her recently injured handler, the aloof Major Gabriel Ramsey, for some months, Electra decides to approach him about the matter.
(There is the slight aspect of a growing attraction between Electra and Major Ramsey!)
There’s also the history of Electra’s mother. She was a condemned murderer, pregnant with Electra. Electra has been following clues trying to find out what the truth was behind what her mother’s actions.
Electra’s visit to the Major leads to the uncovering of German spies looking for something important that may have come from Lisbon. The mystery is what are they after?
Spies, glamour and suspected undercover foreign agents are all grist for the mill.
Intrigue, danger and romantic tension stalks the pages.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
May 30, 2025
“We make a good team, I think.” His voice, low and warm, sent a little shiver through me. “Yes,” I said softly. “A very good team.”
The stakes are higher, the mission more dangerous as Ellie, Major Ramsey and crew race to stop the Germans.
Wow just wowwwww! So much happened in this book!!! There is a plot twist that I didn’t see coming and it left me reeling!!!!!
What is going to happen next? How will this story ever work out?
I am so glad book 5 comes out in a few days because I must know more!
Again, like the rest of the series, this story is addicting, suspenseful, surprising, and I could not stop reading. I am so invested in these characters and their story, especially Electra and Ramsey! I love them! I really can’t wait for the next book! I’m counting down the days, hours, minutes!!!!
Read for:
🗝️Major Ramsey’s unguarded moments
🗝️Electra’s cleverness
🗝️Family
🗝️Romantic tension!!!
🗝️Cliffhanger
🗝️Sooo much excitement for book 5!!!
.
.
.
Content: death, murder, dead body, dangerous situations, a bloody gory scene, some innuendos, unwanted advances, kisses only
4.5⭐️
The stakes are higher, the mission more dangerous as Ellie, Major Ramsey and crew race to stop the Germans.
Wow just wowwwww! So much happened in this book!!! There is a plot twist that I didn’t see coming and it left me reeling!!!!!
What is going to happen next? How will this story ever work out?
I am so glad book 5 comes out in a few days because I must know more!
Again, like the rest of the series, this story is addicting, suspenseful, surprising, and I could not stop reading. I am so invested in these characters and their story, especially Electra and Ramsey! I love them! I really can’t wait for the next book! I’m counting down the days, hours, minutes!!!!
Read for:
🗝️Major Ramsey’s unguarded moments
🗝️Electra’s cleverness
🗝️Family
🗝️Romantic tension!!!
🗝️Cliffhanger
🗝️Sooo much excitement for book 5!!!
.
.
.
Content: death, murder, dead body, dangerous situations, a bloody gory scene, some innuendos, unwanted advances, kisses only
4.5⭐️
August 13, 2024
These books are too short and too few! This would make an excellent mini series or prime time drama. Intrigue, danger, suspense, betrayal, secret identities, fun characters, frustratingly wonderful slooooow burn. And just when I think everything is going to come up roses, Ashley jerks the rug right out from under me! It is going to be a long, long wait for the next book. I’m obsessed!
May 20, 2024
I definitely enjoyed this, and found the mystery intriguing. The author definitely played on my emotions with the situation between Electra and Felix and Electra and Major Ramsey. And ultimately, while the main mystery is solved here, we're left very much hanging at the end with a new adventure to come.
May 17, 2024
More to follow but great plot movement on multiple fronts in this one, and I am very here for it. My only complaint is I now have to wait another year for the next book!!
May 16, 2024
I'm always ready for a new volume in Ashley Weaver's Electra McDonnell historical mystery series. Each novel works well on its own, but there are also narrative threads that flow through every volume—larger mysteries wrapped around smaller ones.
Electra has been raised by her uncle, who has an honest business as a locksmith, but who is also a top-notch safe cracker. Electra has grown up joining the exploits of her uncle and cousins and takes pride in their skills. So, where are mom and dad? Dad was murdered in a crime for which mom was executed, though she kept insisting on her innocence until the end. Electra was born in jail and went to her uncle as an infant. That's one set of the big plot lines. What was dad up to? Was mom guilty? Were their fates isolated incidents or part of a larger conspiracy?
Another major plot line is Electra's current employment. The novels are set in London during the blitz, and Electra has been blackmailed into working for the government after she and her uncle were caught in the midst of one of their robberies. It's not that Electra isn't willing to work for the government. She's proud of that aspect of her work, but misses the risk and adventure of her old life, which she's been forced to abandon—at least until the war is over.
The "small" plot in Locked in Pursuit (though there is nothing small about it) arises as intelligence services realize that a set of robberies that have been handled very quietly are in fact related and part of a larger project Nazi Germany is involved in. The Germans want something and are willing to kill for it, but no one is sure exactly what's being sought or who the individual actors are in this bit of espionage.
This series continues to delight me, and I'm always glad to see a new volume come out. There's a certain pleasure to reading them in order, but Weaver is a capable writer who enables readers to comfortable pick up the story no matter which volume they begin with.
If you enjoy mysteries that are a step or two up from the cozy and yet less graphic than most thrillers, you're going to love the Electra McDonnell series. Start with whichever volume you find first, but you'll wind up wanting to read all of them. I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss; the opinions are my own.
Electra has been raised by her uncle, who has an honest business as a locksmith, but who is also a top-notch safe cracker. Electra has grown up joining the exploits of her uncle and cousins and takes pride in their skills. So, where are mom and dad? Dad was murdered in a crime for which mom was executed, though she kept insisting on her innocence until the end. Electra was born in jail and went to her uncle as an infant. That's one set of the big plot lines. What was dad up to? Was mom guilty? Were their fates isolated incidents or part of a larger conspiracy?
Another major plot line is Electra's current employment. The novels are set in London during the blitz, and Electra has been blackmailed into working for the government after she and her uncle were caught in the midst of one of their robberies. It's not that Electra isn't willing to work for the government. She's proud of that aspect of her work, but misses the risk and adventure of her old life, which she's been forced to abandon—at least until the war is over.
The "small" plot in Locked in Pursuit (though there is nothing small about it) arises as intelligence services realize that a set of robberies that have been handled very quietly are in fact related and part of a larger project Nazi Germany is involved in. The Germans want something and are willing to kill for it, but no one is sure exactly what's being sought or who the individual actors are in this bit of espionage.
This series continues to delight me, and I'm always glad to see a new volume come out. There's a certain pleasure to reading them in order, but Weaver is a capable writer who enables readers to comfortable pick up the story no matter which volume they begin with.
If you enjoy mysteries that are a step or two up from the cozy and yet less graphic than most thrillers, you're going to love the Electra McDonnell series. Start with whichever volume you find first, but you'll wind up wanting to read all of them. I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss; the opinions are my own.
May 14, 2024
WOOOOOOOO this is going into my favorite books solely cause I haven't had a book make me feel this way in a long time. Maybe when I can look at this more objectively, I'll think differently but idc about that at the moment. And this is going to be no surprise to meghan and hannah since I've been going on and on about this book. First of all. This book was giving me whiplash from all the reveals. And most of it was ellie doing stuff she shouldn't have been doing, but it wasn't completely without reason. She just gets really caught up in the case and starts going rogue. And I appreciate that she isn't perfect because who is? I also love her supportive family. Uncle mick and Nacy are so real. And ramseys sister!!!!!!!!!!!!! So slay. I love when there is a matchmaking bestfriend/sister. Something that I notice that ashley weaver does it just randomly bring up characters that ellie has criminal connections with while never mentioning them before. I guess it makes sense but like. Where did they come from?? And the friend Julia was completely out of left field. Never heard of her before. I don't want to spoil anything cause I'm making meghan finish the rest of the books but WOWWWW the last two books pale in comparison to this one, but it was necessary for the build up to this one. And I'm also glad we get to see some of the emotional and physical repercussions from the last book. Ellie couldn't have been riding the high forever. She was kinda romantizing her work for the government, but the rose colored glasses are coming off. The wait for book 5 is going to take me out
May 17, 2024
prereview-
here i am, hoping for a miracle (that the love triangle will finally die)
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here i am, hoping for a miracle (that the love triangle will finally die)
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This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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