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The Oxford Guide #1
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies
Set against the backdrop of post-WWII Oxford University, The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies is the irresistible debut from Kate Westbury that seamlessly layers mystery, romance, and a dash of academia to introduce the Crown’s newest undercover operatives.
Oxford, England, 1951 - The Honorable Ginevra Bishop likes red lipstick, clever retorts, and earning top marks in her tutorials. She’s following her mother’s footsteps by studying at Oxford, eager to prove she’s more than a debutante.
Sidney Braithwaite likes brooding, Latin, and ignoring his nightmares. He’s determined to forge a new life for himself at Oxford, far from his childhood mining village and free from memories of the war.
Though Gin and Sidney have little in common, the British Security Service is keen to unite her charm with his espionage there’s a Soviet spy at the university, and the agent tracking them down was poisoned. MI5 wants Gin and Sidney to pick up the trail and identify the informant before more sensitive information is compromised. As a team, the pair of undergraduates clash in personality, upbringing, and taste—but have a connection neither can deny. Gin and Sidney must unite their respective talents to follow the clues before they’re caught in the traitor’s crosshairs…if the sparks flying between them don’t blow up the operation first.
A Macmillan Audio production from Minotaur Books
Oxford, England, 1951 - The Honorable Ginevra Bishop likes red lipstick, clever retorts, and earning top marks in her tutorials. She’s following her mother’s footsteps by studying at Oxford, eager to prove she’s more than a debutante.
Sidney Braithwaite likes brooding, Latin, and ignoring his nightmares. He’s determined to forge a new life for himself at Oxford, far from his childhood mining village and free from memories of the war.
Though Gin and Sidney have little in common, the British Security Service is keen to unite her charm with his espionage there’s a Soviet spy at the university, and the agent tracking them down was poisoned. MI5 wants Gin and Sidney to pick up the trail and identify the informant before more sensitive information is compromised. As a team, the pair of undergraduates clash in personality, upbringing, and taste—but have a connection neither can deny. Gin and Sidney must unite their respective talents to follow the clues before they’re caught in the traitor’s crosshairs…if the sparks flying between them don’t blow up the operation first.
A Macmillan Audio production from Minotaur Books
Audible Audio
First published September 1, 2026
About the author
Kate Westbury
2 books179 followersKate Westbury grew up a voracious reader of detective fiction, and unraveling plot twists became her favorite pastime. She now puts her whodunnit obsession to good use writing historical mysteries. Beyond the page, Kate teaches Latin and dreams of moving to an English village with crimes to solve.
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you tell me a book contains Oxford, spies, murder, and romantic tension, I’m already halfway through it before anyone finishes the sentence. So when I picked up The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies by Kate Westbury, I knew I was walking straight into my favorite kind of chaos.
And chaos it is—the clever, tea-stained, bookish kind.
Welcome to Oxford in 1951, where the war may technically be over but the shadows it left behind are still lurking in lecture halls, libraries, and suspiciously polite conversations over tea. Into this slightly tense, very academic world step our two unlikely detectives: Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite.
Gin is a viscount’s daughter with impeccable lipstick, razor-sharp wit, and absolutely no interest in being the decorative society ornament everyone expects her to become. She wants to prove she belongs at Oxford on her own merits—and preferably while irritating anyone who thinks otherwise.
Sidney, on the other hand, carries the war in his bones. He’s quiet, guarded, and trying very hard to pretend that espionage and trauma are things he left behind. Unfortunately for him, the universe (and British intelligence) has other plans.
When a spy investigation crashes into Oxford after a suspicious poisoning, these two are recruited to quietly poke around campus and figure out who’s leaking dangerous secrets. Because apparently the best way to catch a spy is to send two argumentative students with unresolved emotional baggage to do the job.
Honestly? Iconic strategy.
What follows is a delicious mix of mystery, espionage, and academic shenanigans. There are secret clues, suspicious professors, coded messages, shady conversations in libraries, and the constant feeling that someone is watching from just around the corner.
And then there’s the dynamic between Gin and Sidney—which is half teamwork, half verbal sparring match.
These two clash in all the best ways. She’s impulsive and fearless, diving headfirst into trouble with the confidence of someone who has never met a boundary she didn’t want to cross. Sidney is cautious, observant, and constantly trying to keep the operation from turning into absolute disaster. Watching them slowly learn to trust each other (while still arguing about nearly everything) was ridiculously entertaining.
Also, the banter deserves a standing ovation.
The romance simmers in the background rather than taking over the story, which I actually loved. It grows quietly between moments of danger and investigation—little looks, reluctant concern, the kind of tension that builds when two people realize they might care about each other more than is strategically wise.
The setting itself is practically a character. Oxford feels alive in this book—old libraries, secret corridors, academic societies, and that wonderful sense that history is hiding behind every door.
And the mystery? It kept me guessing. I had theories. I was suspicious of absolutely everyone. I trusted no one except maybe the library.
The story blends classic whodunnit energy with spy-story intrigue, while also touching on deeper themes—class differences, the lingering scars of war, and the pressure of living up to expectations that were never yours to begin with.
By the time I reached the end, I was fully invested in Gin and Sidney—not just in solving mysteries, but in figuring out what kind of future they want to build for themselves.
Also… that ending? It absolutely whispers “this better become a series.” Because I would happily follow these two into several more academic espionage disasters.
Overall, this was a witty, charming, slightly dangerous historical mystery filled with clever characters, sharp dialogue, and just enough romance to make things interesting.
I’m giving this one four delightfully scandalous stars, and I would gladly return to Oxford with these characters again.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this intriguing mystery / historical spy thriller romance with me in exchange for my honest feedback. 📚🕵️♀️
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And chaos it is—the clever, tea-stained, bookish kind.
Welcome to Oxford in 1951, where the war may technically be over but the shadows it left behind are still lurking in lecture halls, libraries, and suspiciously polite conversations over tea. Into this slightly tense, very academic world step our two unlikely detectives: Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite.
Gin is a viscount’s daughter with impeccable lipstick, razor-sharp wit, and absolutely no interest in being the decorative society ornament everyone expects her to become. She wants to prove she belongs at Oxford on her own merits—and preferably while irritating anyone who thinks otherwise.
Sidney, on the other hand, carries the war in his bones. He’s quiet, guarded, and trying very hard to pretend that espionage and trauma are things he left behind. Unfortunately for him, the universe (and British intelligence) has other plans.
When a spy investigation crashes into Oxford after a suspicious poisoning, these two are recruited to quietly poke around campus and figure out who’s leaking dangerous secrets. Because apparently the best way to catch a spy is to send two argumentative students with unresolved emotional baggage to do the job.
Honestly? Iconic strategy.
What follows is a delicious mix of mystery, espionage, and academic shenanigans. There are secret clues, suspicious professors, coded messages, shady conversations in libraries, and the constant feeling that someone is watching from just around the corner.
And then there’s the dynamic between Gin and Sidney—which is half teamwork, half verbal sparring match.
These two clash in all the best ways. She’s impulsive and fearless, diving headfirst into trouble with the confidence of someone who has never met a boundary she didn’t want to cross. Sidney is cautious, observant, and constantly trying to keep the operation from turning into absolute disaster. Watching them slowly learn to trust each other (while still arguing about nearly everything) was ridiculously entertaining.
Also, the banter deserves a standing ovation.
The romance simmers in the background rather than taking over the story, which I actually loved. It grows quietly between moments of danger and investigation—little looks, reluctant concern, the kind of tension that builds when two people realize they might care about each other more than is strategically wise.
The setting itself is practically a character. Oxford feels alive in this book—old libraries, secret corridors, academic societies, and that wonderful sense that history is hiding behind every door.
And the mystery? It kept me guessing. I had theories. I was suspicious of absolutely everyone. I trusted no one except maybe the library.
The story blends classic whodunnit energy with spy-story intrigue, while also touching on deeper themes—class differences, the lingering scars of war, and the pressure of living up to expectations that were never yours to begin with.
By the time I reached the end, I was fully invested in Gin and Sidney—not just in solving mysteries, but in figuring out what kind of future they want to build for themselves.
Also… that ending? It absolutely whispers “this better become a series.” Because I would happily follow these two into several more academic espionage disasters.
Overall, this was a witty, charming, slightly dangerous historical mystery filled with clever characters, sharp dialogue, and just enough romance to make things interesting.
I’m giving this one four delightfully scandalous stars, and I would gladly return to Oxford with these characters again.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this intriguing mystery / historical spy thriller romance with me in exchange for my honest feedback. 📚🕵️♀️
medium blog
September 5, 2026
What do a debutante (Ginevra) and a boy (Sidney) from the mines have in common?
An invitation to spy for the enigmatic Rook in postwar Oxford.
Here's what I liked:
🕵Ginevra Bishop may look polished and pretty, but she also has some unconventional skill sets. And her problem-solving skills will come in handy. Sidney is definitely underestimating her!
🎓Sidney Braithwaite still suffers from his espionage duties during the war. The last thing he wants to do is spy while also attempting to finish his course at Oxford. When will he realize that Ginevra makes a great spying partner?
🗓Setting this story in 1951 allows for both German and Russian sympathizers to be brought to light. Could one of the suspects truly be dipping into both of those poisoned pools?
📚While this one meandered a bit too much for me at times, the ending was down right intriguing! I would be up for reading Book 2 to see what the future has in store for Ginevra and Sidney.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Ell Potter did a find job in reading this story to me as I walked the streets of Talsi, Latvia. A big thank you to Minotaur Books and Edelweiss+ for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. Available as of September 1, 2026.
An invitation to spy for the enigmatic Rook in postwar Oxford.
Here's what I liked:
🕵Ginevra Bishop may look polished and pretty, but she also has some unconventional skill sets. And her problem-solving skills will come in handy. Sidney is definitely underestimating her!
🎓Sidney Braithwaite still suffers from his espionage duties during the war. The last thing he wants to do is spy while also attempting to finish his course at Oxford. When will he realize that Ginevra makes a great spying partner?
🗓Setting this story in 1951 allows for both German and Russian sympathizers to be brought to light. Could one of the suspects truly be dipping into both of those poisoned pools?
📚While this one meandered a bit too much for me at times, the ending was down right intriguing! I would be up for reading Book 2 to see what the future has in store for Ginevra and Sidney.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Ell Potter did a find job in reading this story to me as I walked the streets of Talsi, Latvia. A big thank you to Minotaur Books and Edelweiss+ for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. Available as of September 1, 2026.
June 7, 2026
Okay, hear me out. I've been damn near bereft since Ashely Weaver wrapped up her last cozy mystery series, and I've been looking for something to fill that void.
This is the closest I've come to finding a spiritual successor to Weaver's mysteries, specifically the Electra McDonnell series (which begins with A Peculiar Combination).
In this novel, two Oxford students from two different social classes by chance team up to sniff out who on campus has been feeding information to a Russian spy. Along the way, we learn more about each of their backgrounds, hear what problems plague their current lives, and see a match of chemistry lit between them, which burns steadily but quietly in the background.
It's not a perfect book. It's a debut novel, and it shows: there are a few too many characters and details to keep track of, and I think some of the revelations about the characters could have waited until book two. But there is SO MUCH that is excellent here that I can't wait to see where the author goes with it.
Historical mystery fans who like a splash of romance, please give this one a try!
This is the closest I've come to finding a spiritual successor to Weaver's mysteries, specifically the Electra McDonnell series (which begins with A Peculiar Combination).
In this novel, two Oxford students from two different social classes by chance team up to sniff out who on campus has been feeding information to a Russian spy. Along the way, we learn more about each of their backgrounds, hear what problems plague their current lives, and see a match of chemistry lit between them, which burns steadily but quietly in the background.
It's not a perfect book. It's a debut novel, and it shows: there are a few too many characters and details to keep track of, and I think some of the revelations about the characters could have waited until book two. But there is SO MUCH that is excellent here that I can't wait to see where the author goes with it.
Historical mystery fans who like a splash of romance, please give this one a try!
Want to Read
March 17, 2026Thank you, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, for sending me this ARC. Mystery, romance, and a dash of academia? Yes, please.
Pub Date Sep 01 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
Pub Date Sep 01 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
July 17, 2026
The Oxford Guide to Scandal was an entertaining blend of mystery, espionage, and engaging character dynamics. Outstanding narration.
Gin and Sidney are unexpectedly thrown together in the world of espionage. Gin is eager to jump into the adventure, while Sidney is much more reluctant, having left that life behind. Their contrasting personalities complement each other perfectly, and watching them learn to work together was one of my favorite parts of the story.
I especially enjoyed the intrigue, the mystery, and the banter between the two main characters. Their interactions kept the story moving and made me eager to see what would happen next.
I’m hoping this is the beginning of a series because I would happily pick up another adventure featuring Gin and Sidney. I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
Gin and Sidney are unexpectedly thrown together in the world of espionage. Gin is eager to jump into the adventure, while Sidney is much more reluctant, having left that life behind. Their contrasting personalities complement each other perfectly, and watching them learn to work together was one of my favorite parts of the story.
I especially enjoyed the intrigue, the mystery, and the banter between the two main characters. Their interactions kept the story moving and made me eager to see what would happen next.
I’m hoping this is the beginning of a series because I would happily pick up another adventure featuring Gin and Sidney. I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
September 28, 2026
2.5 Stars
One Liner: A sort of cozy spy mystery
Oxford, England, 1951
The Honorable Ginevra Bishop is following her mother’s footsteps by studying at Oxford and hopes to prove she’s more than a debutante.
Sidney Braithwaite is a Latin-loving grump determined to ignore his nightmares and walk a new path at Oxford.
It doesn’t matter that they have almost nothing in common. The British Security Service selects them to track down the Soviet spy (since the agent tracking them was poisoned). The unlikely team has to handle a serious operation while bickering and clashing.
The story comes in Gin and Sidney’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts
This book blends cozy mystery, academia, historical setting, WWII, and spy drama. It also has hints of romance, though thankfully, this part doesn’t dominate the main plot.
The result of mixing so many genres is a strange mystery that’s neither serious nor silly, but manages to be both at the same time. If you are confused, that sums it up.
This is also a book where you don’t ask certain questions. You might get a hint as to why the FMC with no real experience was assigned such a serious task. The MMC, for all his experience, doesn’t seem to do better either, and this really affects the book. Likely that the author wanted the FMC to be in the spotlight (she is certainly written that way), but it doesn’t ring true when she finds and does things without any training or experience. It just feels way too convenient.
The MMC could have made a greater impact if he wasn’t limited to a checklist and not allowed to be better than the FMC. It’s not really good writing if you have to limit one character to let the other bloom.
The bare bones were actually good. I loved the premise, but the execution didn’t do it justice. The pacing is also on the slower side. It’s only the last 15% or so that gets really interesting with some twists and reveals.
To summarize, The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies is not a bad attempt, but it could have been so much better with a different structure and execution. This is the first in the series. While the case is a standalone, the ending is a bit of a cliffhanger for the overarching plot.
I’m an outliner, so do check other reviews before you decide.
Thank you, NetGalley and Minotaur Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
One Liner: A sort of cozy spy mystery
Oxford, England, 1951
The Honorable Ginevra Bishop is following her mother’s footsteps by studying at Oxford and hopes to prove she’s more than a debutante.
Sidney Braithwaite is a Latin-loving grump determined to ignore his nightmares and walk a new path at Oxford.
It doesn’t matter that they have almost nothing in common. The British Security Service selects them to track down the Soviet spy (since the agent tracking them was poisoned). The unlikely team has to handle a serious operation while bickering and clashing.
The story comes in Gin and Sidney’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts
This book blends cozy mystery, academia, historical setting, WWII, and spy drama. It also has hints of romance, though thankfully, this part doesn’t dominate the main plot.
The result of mixing so many genres is a strange mystery that’s neither serious nor silly, but manages to be both at the same time. If you are confused, that sums it up.
This is also a book where you don’t ask certain questions. You might get a hint as to why the FMC with no real experience was assigned such a serious task. The MMC, for all his experience, doesn’t seem to do better either, and this really affects the book. Likely that the author wanted the FMC to be in the spotlight (she is certainly written that way), but it doesn’t ring true when she finds and does things without any training or experience. It just feels way too convenient.
The MMC could have made a greater impact if he wasn’t limited to a checklist and not allowed to be better than the FMC. It’s not really good writing if you have to limit one character to let the other bloom.
The bare bones were actually good. I loved the premise, but the execution didn’t do it justice. The pacing is also on the slower side. It’s only the last 15% or so that gets really interesting with some twists and reveals.
To summarize, The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies is not a bad attempt, but it could have been so much better with a different structure and execution. This is the first in the series. While the case is a standalone, the ending is a bit of a cliffhanger for the overarching plot.
I’m an outliner, so do check other reviews before you decide.
Thank you, NetGalley and Minotaur Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
September 1, 2026
Who do you trust?
Post WWII, 1950’s Oxford. Sidney Braithwaite, a former intelligence officer has decided to take up an ex Serviceman’s Grant to study at Oxford
Stationed in France, he’s recovering from bad memories and the death of a French compatriot he worked with, Amélie. Sidney was more than fond of her. Then there was the matter of his wound.
Sidney seems to have landed in a nest of appalling entitled behavior and Kremlin links. A member of the infamous Damolaces Club was accused of treason whilst in a German prison. Many believe he’s wrongly accused.
The plot becomes murkier as things pan out and his old handler from Security Services, the Rook, makes contact.
Then there’s the very upper class, the Honorable Ginerva Bishop who disturbed his studying in the Bodlean, and his life in other ways.
Great start to a new series.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Post WWII, 1950’s Oxford. Sidney Braithwaite, a former intelligence officer has decided to take up an ex Serviceman’s Grant to study at Oxford
Stationed in France, he’s recovering from bad memories and the death of a French compatriot he worked with, Amélie. Sidney was more than fond of her. Then there was the matter of his wound.
Sidney seems to have landed in a nest of appalling entitled behavior and Kremlin links. A member of the infamous Damolaces Club was accused of treason whilst in a German prison. Many believe he’s wrongly accused.
The plot becomes murkier as things pan out and his old handler from Security Services, the Rook, makes contact.
Then there’s the very upper class, the Honorable Ginerva Bishop who disturbed his studying in the Bodlean, and his life in other ways.
Great start to a new series.
A St. Martin’s Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This seemed like it would be a fun thriller, but it was too convoluted.
Plot summary: Gin, short for Ginevra, is studying German at Oxford. She meets up with Sydney, and it's enemies at first sight. But when they're both asked to be spies for England, they must get over their mutual dislike to team up and help...and maybe fall in love on the way.
The premise here was great. Oxford, historical mystery, enemies to lovers. But it was just too outlandish for me. Gin is too headstrong and would be dead in real life the first time she did what she wanted instead of playing it safe. And it was too contrived; Gin somehow gets into the apartment of a potential spy, because he left his windows open. Uh huh. And even though she has zero training (why in the world was she brought in?), she manages to find an important paper that happens to have all the info they need to break the spy ring.
It becomes very complicated, and no, I couldn't figure out who the spy was. But it wasn't exactly satisfying, because the end was too contrived, like most of the story, and the info dump was just too much.
2.5 rounded up.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Kate Wesbury for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
Plot summary: Gin, short for Ginevra, is studying German at Oxford. She meets up with Sydney, and it's enemies at first sight. But when they're both asked to be spies for England, they must get over their mutual dislike to team up and help...and maybe fall in love on the way.
The premise here was great. Oxford, historical mystery, enemies to lovers. But it was just too outlandish for me. Gin is too headstrong and would be dead in real life the first time she did what she wanted instead of playing it safe. And it was too contrived; Gin somehow gets into the apartment of a potential spy, because he left his windows open. Uh huh. And even though she has zero training (why in the world was she brought in?), she manages to find an important paper that happens to have all the info they need to break the spy ring.
It becomes very complicated, and no, I couldn't figure out who the spy was. But it wasn't exactly satisfying, because the end was too contrived, like most of the story, and the info dump was just too much.
2.5 rounded up.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Kate Wesbury for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
Did Not Finish
March 24, 2026DNF at 55%
Two Oxford students tasked with spying to root out a member of their Uni that's committing treason and leaking intel to Russia. AND has even gone as far as killing the previous agent that had gotten too close.
All that said, this book SHOULD'VE made for a compelling read as murder-mysteries are my jam! Unfortunately, I have to agree with Gin here (the FL) when it came to expecting more subterfuge and excitement with her spying. Whereas, the story was mainly a watch and investigate from the shadows kind of tale. For a book centered around treason and a murder, there was very little action or actual intensity to keep the readers interested. I kept reading on and giving the book more time, but I genuinely don't care to read about sneaking into empty houses in the middle of the night and looking for clues. OR at least have that and then have someone shoot at them or capture one of them or SOMETHING to actually reveal those treacherous stakes that are supposedly at place!
No star rating as I dropped. But! Had I finished this would've gotten a 2 star rating as the characters were well-written and felt realistic but the story itself was slow and boring.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc. All opinions are my own.
Two Oxford students tasked with spying to root out a member of their Uni that's committing treason and leaking intel to Russia. AND has even gone as far as killing the previous agent that had gotten too close.
All that said, this book SHOULD'VE made for a compelling read as murder-mysteries are my jam! Unfortunately, I have to agree with Gin here (the FL) when it came to expecting more subterfuge and excitement with her spying. Whereas, the story was mainly a watch and investigate from the shadows kind of tale. For a book centered around treason and a murder, there was very little action or actual intensity to keep the readers interested. I kept reading on and giving the book more time, but I genuinely don't care to read about sneaking into empty houses in the middle of the night and looking for clues. OR at least have that and then have someone shoot at them or capture one of them or SOMETHING to actually reveal those treacherous stakes that are supposedly at place!
No star rating as I dropped. But! Had I finished this would've gotten a 2 star rating as the characters were well-written and felt realistic but the story itself was slow and boring.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really don't know how to put into words just how much I loved this book, these characters, the setting, the mystery, the almost romance, I just did. Everything about it was appealing and captured my attention, held it, and refused to let go, long after I put it down.
And best of all, with the ending, I am keeping my fingers crossed (all of them!) that this will become a series because, quite frankly, I can see it becoming a fan favorite. I am rooting for Gin and Sidney all the way and I can't wait to (hopefully!) get more. There is still so much I just need to know!
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
And best of all, with the ending, I am keeping my fingers crossed (all of them!) that this will become a series because, quite frankly, I can see it becoming a fan favorite. I am rooting for Gin and Sidney all the way and I can't wait to (hopefully!) get more. There is still so much I just need to know!
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Review of advance copy received from Author
thanks to the author and publisher for inviting me to read this book in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts are my own
4⭐
happy release day
a super fun historical novel with a strong fmc, supportive mmc, a little rivalry and academic vibe. at times it was a little slow but i can also blame that on my switching between genres and not reading a historical novel in a while. i recommend for a fun 1920's novel with a fun mystery! < 3
4⭐
happy release day
a super fun historical novel with a strong fmc, supportive mmc, a little rivalry and academic vibe. at times it was a little slow but i can also blame that on my switching between genres and not reading a historical novel in a while. i recommend for a fun 1920's novel with a fun mystery! < 3
September 15, 2026
This was really fun! I’ll write more soon but I ended up enjoying it a lot. The mystery has lots of twists and turns, as do our two sleuths’ personal lives. The short final chapter has a seriously intriguing cliffhanger.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.25 stars
Really enjoyable read about espionage and a dash of romance.
I ended up liking this one more than I though I would. Espionage, especially in an English setting, just hits different. For whatever reason, it's just cozy to me, even if it's not really supposed to be ☺️
I liked both main characters and there different ways of being a spy, both rather effective. They melded well when they finally really started to work together. That part took a little long for my taste, but that also just made their time together more sweet.
I also wish the romance would have been there a little bit more. I would have rather had more focus on that storyline than some of the other somewhat random side stories. But I also didn't realize this is going to be as series, so 🤞🏻 for more to come in the next book!
Thank you NetGalley and St Martins Press for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
Really enjoyable read about espionage and a dash of romance.
I ended up liking this one more than I though I would. Espionage, especially in an English setting, just hits different. For whatever reason, it's just cozy to me, even if it's not really supposed to be ☺️
I liked both main characters and there different ways of being a spy, both rather effective. They melded well when they finally really started to work together. That part took a little long for my taste, but that also just made their time together more sweet.
I also wish the romance would have been there a little bit more. I would have rather had more focus on that storyline than some of the other somewhat random side stories. But I also didn't realize this is going to be as series, so 🤞🏻 for more to come in the next book!
Thank you NetGalley and St Martins Press for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you're someone who loves a slow burn but you haven't yet read a historical mystery, you're missing out! I can recommend Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies as a really nice slow burn. It's the first in a new series set after WWII at the beginning of the Cold War. Two Oxford Students witness the death of their favorite librarian and are recruited by the Rook, a spymaster, to investigate.
Ginevra is a modern languages student, daughter of a viscount, and great with social connections; this is her first foray into investigating.. Sidney is a classics student and WWII veteran who worked for the Rook during the war, so he's more experienced. Oh, and they hate each other thanks to a terrible first impression.
Together they work the case, which seems to have connections both to an earlier instance of treason in a German POW camp during WWII and a current traitor to the Crown working for the Soviets. Sidney and Ginevra have to do a lot of romance things while they investigate, like sneak around after curfew, fake-kiss under street lamps, and attend social events like parties and plays together. So, like, dating, except that they're TOTALLY just colleagues.
While the case is wrapped up by the end of this one there's obviously more to come with these two, both as domestic agents and in their relationship.
I chose to listen to this one, and the audio was great! Perfect for getting all of the British accents that mark class and origin in the book.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the audiobook.
Ginevra is a modern languages student, daughter of a viscount, and great with social connections; this is her first foray into investigating.. Sidney is a classics student and WWII veteran who worked for the Rook during the war, so he's more experienced. Oh, and they hate each other thanks to a terrible first impression.
Together they work the case, which seems to have connections both to an earlier instance of treason in a German POW camp during WWII and a current traitor to the Crown working for the Soviets. Sidney and Ginevra have to do a lot of romance things while they investigate, like sneak around after curfew, fake-kiss under street lamps, and attend social events like parties and plays together. So, like, dating, except that they're TOTALLY just colleagues.
While the case is wrapped up by the end of this one there's obviously more to come with these two, both as domestic agents and in their relationship.
I chose to listen to this one, and the audio was great! Perfect for getting all of the British accents that mark class and origin in the book.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the audiobook.
September 2, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me an ARC of this book!
Very fun! I love a well done amateur detective novel and I really enjoyed the historical setting and the light romance as well.
I thought this book started off very strong (Even though I super wrongly assumed from the blurb that out WWII veteran would be much older and this would be more a father-daughter-like pair solve a mystery, NOT that at all!). The setting drew me in quickly. I couldn't care less about Oxford but I just love a 20th century university setting for a mystery. Ginevra, or Gin, in particular grabbed me right away. I really liked her voice. Sidney is more of your typical brooding hero. There's good reason for it but I do think a bit more could have been done to set him apart. As a duo they're good. They spend the first half of the book not really liking each other, which dragged a bit, but once they got on the same page I enjoyed the dynamic.
The mystery was pretty fun to read but not very difficult to figure out. The main cast is relatively small and the cast of suspects even smaller so it did not take me very long at all to narrow it down to who I thought did it. I did want more of the actual intelligence work we saw in the first half to appear in the second half. At first, they are staking out buildings, leaving notes for each other, doing decoding, etc., and I feel like that faded in the second half and I wish it hadn't. The climax of the mystery is fine, but it's clearly mostly there to set up the bigger mystery that I image will carry through the rest of this series. We've been set up with a mystery mostly about Gin's history, so I hope we get more about Sidney in later books too and that he isn't just a side player. Also, this is very post-war UK vs Soviet Union. If you want a nuanced look at that dynamic, it at least doesn't appear in this first book.
One small note is that there is definitely some sort of chess motif happening - the intelligence contact is codenamed Rook, Gin's last name is Bishop, Gin's mother loves chess and taught her to play - but it's fairly surface level. If this continues in later books, I hope it's used with more purpose.
I'm definitely looking forward to the sequels! This was good but I think really laid the groundwork for later books so I'm very intrigued to see where this author takes this story!
Very fun! I love a well done amateur detective novel and I really enjoyed the historical setting and the light romance as well.
I thought this book started off very strong (Even though I super wrongly assumed from the blurb that out WWII veteran would be much older and this would be more a father-daughter-like pair solve a mystery, NOT that at all!). The setting drew me in quickly. I couldn't care less about Oxford but I just love a 20th century university setting for a mystery. Ginevra, or Gin, in particular grabbed me right away. I really liked her voice. Sidney is more of your typical brooding hero. There's good reason for it but I do think a bit more could have been done to set him apart. As a duo they're good. They spend the first half of the book not really liking each other, which dragged a bit, but once they got on the same page I enjoyed the dynamic.
The mystery was pretty fun to read but not very difficult to figure out. The main cast is relatively small and the cast of suspects even smaller so it did not take me very long at all to narrow it down to who I thought did it. I did want more of the actual intelligence work we saw in the first half to appear in the second half. At first, they are staking out buildings, leaving notes for each other, doing decoding, etc., and I feel like that faded in the second half and I wish it hadn't. The climax of the mystery is fine, but it's clearly mostly there to set up the bigger mystery that I image will carry through the rest of this series. We've been set up with a mystery mostly about Gin's history, so I hope we get more about Sidney in later books too and that he isn't just a side player. Also, this is very post-war UK vs Soviet Union. If you want a nuanced look at that dynamic, it at least doesn't appear in this first book.
One small note is that there is definitely some sort of chess motif happening - the intelligence contact is codenamed Rook, Gin's last name is Bishop, Gin's mother loves chess and taught her to play - but it's fairly surface level. If this continues in later books, I hope it's used with more purpose.
I'm definitely looking forward to the sequels! This was good but I think really laid the groundwork for later books so I'm very intrigued to see where this author takes this story!
September 2, 2026
"The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies" is a pleasant read with a solid set of characters and a strong blend of academia, romance, espionage, and murder. I listened to this on audiobook, and I will admit that things got a bit messy for me in the middle. I found myself feeling a little lost once or twice, though that may say as much about my concentration as the book itself. I appreciated the characters more than the mystery, but I was happy to keep going for the vibes, which were deliciously cozy and witty. It's hard to tell, but it looks like maybe this is going to be the first in a series (?), and if more books come along, I would definitely be up for revisiting this world. The audiobook production was so engaging and entertaining!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing an advance copy for honest review.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing an advance copy for honest review.
September 25, 2026
(3.5 stars)
Thank you to Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to read and listen to a review copy of The Oxford Guide To Scandals And Lies, a debut novel by Kate Westbury.
The story takes place in 1951 in Oxford. Britain is still recovering from WW2. There are a number of faculty and students who have returned to peacetime life, bearing both physical and mental scars from their experiences. Add in fear of Communism, and you have a complex atmosphere.
Ginevra is a first-year Oxford student, studying German. She has an unpleasant run-in at the library with Sidney, who served in WW2 as a spy, and is now resuming his studies. They have very different family backgrounds. For some reason that wasn’t clear to me, the British Security Service wants Gin to work with Sidney to uncover a Soviet spy operating at Oxford. Sidney initially wants no part in this but reluctantly agrees to help. They do make a good pair, as Gin turns out to be quite observant, and Sidney has lots of experience to help teach Gin.
There are a lot of characters to keep straight and I found the plot a bit confusing and convoluted. I found myself losing interest partway through the book but I kept at it, just to discover who the spy was. It was clear right away that this was going to be a variation on the enemies-to-lovers trope, although it never quite got to the lovers stage. There was a lengthy miscommunication which held the relationship back.
This looks to be the first book in a series and I’m not sure if I’d pick up the second book.
I mostly listened to the audiobook version on a flight, and Ell Potter did a great job with the various accents.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to read and listen to a review copy of The Oxford Guide To Scandals And Lies, a debut novel by Kate Westbury.
The story takes place in 1951 in Oxford. Britain is still recovering from WW2. There are a number of faculty and students who have returned to peacetime life, bearing both physical and mental scars from their experiences. Add in fear of Communism, and you have a complex atmosphere.
Ginevra is a first-year Oxford student, studying German. She has an unpleasant run-in at the library with Sidney, who served in WW2 as a spy, and is now resuming his studies. They have very different family backgrounds. For some reason that wasn’t clear to me, the British Security Service wants Gin to work with Sidney to uncover a Soviet spy operating at Oxford. Sidney initially wants no part in this but reluctantly agrees to help. They do make a good pair, as Gin turns out to be quite observant, and Sidney has lots of experience to help teach Gin.
There are a lot of characters to keep straight and I found the plot a bit confusing and convoluted. I found myself losing interest partway through the book but I kept at it, just to discover who the spy was. It was clear right away that this was going to be a variation on the enemies-to-lovers trope, although it never quite got to the lovers stage. There was a lengthy miscommunication which held the relationship back.
This looks to be the first book in a series and I’m not sure if I’d pick up the second book.
I mostly listened to the audiobook version on a flight, and Ell Potter did a great job with the various accents.
September 9, 2026
If you love historical mysteries, you simply must read The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies. This has everything I love in historical fiction: spy intrigue, academia, and delightful chemistry.
Ginevra Bishop is a debutante attending Oxford in hopes of escaping her father’s control. Sidney Braithwaite is a war veteran with emotional scars trying to rebuild his life. When the pair is recruited by MI5 to investigate the death of a beloved librarian, they must work together to uncover the truth about Oxford (and themselves).
I adored this book. The characters compelled me from the start. The dual point of view worked so well! I love how artfully the author revealed details about their pasts. This was well-written! I learned so much about Ginevra and Sidney through their actions and their reactions to the chaos surrounding them. They have a dynamic chemistry; I could read books and books about them (thankfully a sequel is in the works!) I am emotionally attached!
There’s just something about a Cold War thriller that’ll always interest me. I love the mounting tensions with the Soviets while characters still wrestle with the aftermath of World War II. I truly did not guess any of the twists! This story kept me on my toes.
The Oxford setting felt real and lived in. I could picture the library, Ginevra’s room, and the sprawling country estates with perfect clarity. I wanted to dive into the world! The secondary characters were well-written and made the story feel fuller.
I cannot recommend this book enough! I’m so happy I bought my own copy because a reread will certainly be in order.
Ginevra Bishop is a debutante attending Oxford in hopes of escaping her father’s control. Sidney Braithwaite is a war veteran with emotional scars trying to rebuild his life. When the pair is recruited by MI5 to investigate the death of a beloved librarian, they must work together to uncover the truth about Oxford (and themselves).
I adored this book. The characters compelled me from the start. The dual point of view worked so well! I love how artfully the author revealed details about their pasts. This was well-written! I learned so much about Ginevra and Sidney through their actions and their reactions to the chaos surrounding them. They have a dynamic chemistry; I could read books and books about them (thankfully a sequel is in the works!) I am emotionally attached!
There’s just something about a Cold War thriller that’ll always interest me. I love the mounting tensions with the Soviets while characters still wrestle with the aftermath of World War II. I truly did not guess any of the twists! This story kept me on my toes.
The Oxford setting felt real and lived in. I could picture the library, Ginevra’s room, and the sprawling country estates with perfect clarity. I wanted to dive into the world! The secondary characters were well-written and made the story feel fuller.
I cannot recommend this book enough! I’m so happy I bought my own copy because a reread will certainly be in order.
September 12, 2026
A delightful espionage mystery! The 1950s Oxford setting was well-crafted and immersive and the leads (Gin and Sid) complement each other well. Particular sensitivity in regards to grief and PTSD added depth alongside light and banter-filled spy activities.
The audiobook is so well-narrated it’s crazy. I can’t believe one woman can do so many voices.
The audiobook is so well-narrated it’s crazy. I can’t believe one woman can do so many voices.
July 19, 2026
If you love academia and spy stories, this books blends both in a fun romp of a historical mystery. I had a great time reading this and the series is on my "must read" list for now on.
I have to admit that I went into this without reading the summary, which made for a surprise when the main characters weren't just investigating a crime, but were recruited as government operatives to thwart spies! I love historical mysteries with sleuthing partners, but throwing in counter-intelligence work? What a great surprise.
Our main characters have some obstacles in the form of class difference and very different experiences during WW2. The tension between them starts as dislike, but softens over the course of the book. They are clearly compatible, but are letting heads rule at the end of this one, so the "will they or won't they" aspect is left to be resolved in a future book.
I found that the story became more complex as things progressed and I wish I had taken some character notes while reading the first third of the book. There are a lot of people to keep track of!
You can see here that I've tried my best to avoid spoilers of any kind. That was hard!
I have to admit that I went into this without reading the summary, which made for a surprise when the main characters weren't just investigating a crime, but were recruited as government operatives to thwart spies! I love historical mysteries with sleuthing partners, but throwing in counter-intelligence work? What a great surprise.
Our main characters have some obstacles in the form of class difference and very different experiences during WW2. The tension between them starts as dislike, but softens over the course of the book. They are clearly compatible, but are letting heads rule at the end of this one, so the "will they or won't they" aspect is left to be resolved in a future book.
I found that the story became more complex as things progressed and I wish I had taken some character notes while reading the first third of the book. There are a lot of people to keep track of!
You can see here that I've tried my best to avoid spoilers of any kind. That was hard!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I picked this book because of my love for espionage fiction and almost anything set at Oxford. I also was intrigued by setting the book soon after World War II, when so many authors want to use WWII as a setting to up the excitement ante. It’s a nice change to use a time period at the early days of the Cold War. It’s also interesting to choose Oxford, when Cambridge is more known as a hotbed of Soviet sympathizers.
It seems unlikely that a government spymaster would choose a complete neophyte, and a Viscount’s daughter, at that, to take on the potentially deadly task of unearthing a Soviet spy or spy ring, even if paired up with a fellow student who has intelligence experience from his service during the war. But it is soon clear that author Westbury’s motive is more for romantic than logical reasons. Ginevra and Sidney are set up in a classic enemies-to-lovers plot, with continuing tension fueled by misunderstanding. I’m not a romance genre reader, and I really don’t like plot threads that continue only because characters fail—obstinately—to communicate with each other. That’s a negative for me about this book that might not bother other readers.
In the second half of the book, the plot heats up, and even though I spotted the murderer early on, it still held my interest. I even was able to set aside how much and often the plot depends on coincidence and serendipity. While the case wraps up, there is a setup for a followup story, and I think this book shows enough promise that I’ll give the next one a try.
It seems unlikely that a government spymaster would choose a complete neophyte, and a Viscount’s daughter, at that, to take on the potentially deadly task of unearthing a Soviet spy or spy ring, even if paired up with a fellow student who has intelligence experience from his service during the war. But it is soon clear that author Westbury’s motive is more for romantic than logical reasons. Ginevra and Sidney are set up in a classic enemies-to-lovers plot, with continuing tension fueled by misunderstanding. I’m not a romance genre reader, and I really don’t like plot threads that continue only because characters fail—obstinately—to communicate with each other. That’s a negative for me about this book that might not bother other readers.
In the second half of the book, the plot heats up, and even though I spotted the murderer early on, it still held my interest. I even was able to set aside how much and often the plot depends on coincidence and serendipity. While the case wraps up, there is a setup for a followup story, and I think this book shows enough promise that I’ll give the next one a try.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a delightful mix of Agatha Christie and Nancy Drew! The story starts out with two students at Oxford in a conflict over a study spot in the library and leads in to a delightful mystery involving murder and espionage. The story takes place at the end of the war which is a perfect setting for hunting down spies. The main characters were engaging and the plot had me hooked until the end. Personally I am not a fan of graphic violence and I appreciated that this wasn’t that sort of book. I can only assume, based on the ending, that this is the first in a series. I look forward to reading the next book! Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
March 7, 2026
This little ARC landed in my inbox and has surprised and completely charmed me. If you like Masterpiece Mystery shows, particularly Endeavor or Granchester, you are going to love this. My only issue is with an ending like that I’ll need more Gin and Sidney immediately!
Read
June 21, 2026DNF @ 30%.
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies initially attracted me for several elements: the setting (Oxford University), the time period (historical fiction, 1950s) and the plot overview (a spy murder mystery.) I understood reading this book by a debut author meant I wasn’t familiar with her writing style, and I ultimately didn’t connect with this book.
The primary reasons I decided to stop reading this book were:
- The 3rd person POV was written in a telling versus showing format, and it wasn’t engaging.
- There were a host of characters and it was hard to keep track of them and their role in the story.
- The writing style and dialogue felt very fake, like someone pretending to be British. I read many authentically British authors’ books and the dialogue sounds very different than this.
- The mystery felt contrived. I wasn’t invested in the story.
I will say I enjoyed the setting (Oxford) and I could tell there would be a nice romance between the main characters.
I won’t be giving this a book rating on Goodreads since I didn’t finish it, but if I did I anticipate it would be 2 stars.
In the 30% of the book I did read, there was no profanity or spice or any other content warnings. I think this book would be best for readers of cozy mystery that don’t mind 3rd person POV or having to really pay attention to lots of characters within a plot.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinion is my own and not influenced by the author or publisher.
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies initially attracted me for several elements: the setting (Oxford University), the time period (historical fiction, 1950s) and the plot overview (a spy murder mystery.) I understood reading this book by a debut author meant I wasn’t familiar with her writing style, and I ultimately didn’t connect with this book.
The primary reasons I decided to stop reading this book were:
- The 3rd person POV was written in a telling versus showing format, and it wasn’t engaging.
- There were a host of characters and it was hard to keep track of them and their role in the story.
- The writing style and dialogue felt very fake, like someone pretending to be British. I read many authentically British authors’ books and the dialogue sounds very different than this.
- The mystery felt contrived. I wasn’t invested in the story.
I will say I enjoyed the setting (Oxford) and I could tell there would be a nice romance between the main characters.
I won’t be giving this a book rating on Goodreads since I didn’t finish it, but if I did I anticipate it would be 2 stars.
In the 30% of the book I did read, there was no profanity or spice or any other content warnings. I think this book would be best for readers of cozy mystery that don’t mind 3rd person POV or having to really pay attention to lots of characters within a plot.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinion is my own and not influenced by the author or publisher.
September 11, 2026
The Honorable Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite are both students at Oxford, but they come from very different worlds. Their thrown together when the British Security Service recruits them to uncover a Soviet spy operating on campus after their undercover agent is assassinated.
Ginevra is new to the spy game, but her upper-class connections allow her to move easily through those social circles. When she discovers the difficult situation her father has placed her in, the opportunity to earn money while serving her country becomes even more appealing. I enjoyed her determined, plucky personality.
Sidney, meanwhile, served in intelligence during the war and carries scars from those experiences, both physical and emotional. Now at Oxford, he’s eager to move on. However, he can't bring himself to leave Ginevra, an inexperienced newcomer, to face such a dangerous assignment alone.
Both Ginevra and Sidney were likable, relatable characters with distinct strengths that contributed to the investigation. They clashed at first, but there was spark of chemistry between them from the start. A romance is brewing, and I'm eager to see how it develops in future installments.
The Oxford Guide to Secrets and Lies was an exciting mystery filled with danger, intrigue, and suspense! While this mission is completed, the ending hints that there is more to come. I can't wait to see what happens next!
I listened to the audiobook edition, and Ell Potter delivered an outstanding performance. She skillfully handled a wide range of English accents across different ages, genders, and social classes, bringing the characters vividly to life. Her narration definitely enhanced enjoyment!
I voluntarily listened to a copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Ginevra is new to the spy game, but her upper-class connections allow her to move easily through those social circles. When she discovers the difficult situation her father has placed her in, the opportunity to earn money while serving her country becomes even more appealing. I enjoyed her determined, plucky personality.
Sidney, meanwhile, served in intelligence during the war and carries scars from those experiences, both physical and emotional. Now at Oxford, he’s eager to move on. However, he can't bring himself to leave Ginevra, an inexperienced newcomer, to face such a dangerous assignment alone.
Both Ginevra and Sidney were likable, relatable characters with distinct strengths that contributed to the investigation. They clashed at first, but there was spark of chemistry between them from the start. A romance is brewing, and I'm eager to see how it develops in future installments.
The Oxford Guide to Secrets and Lies was an exciting mystery filled with danger, intrigue, and suspense! While this mission is completed, the ending hints that there is more to come. I can't wait to see what happens next!
I listened to the audiobook edition, and Ell Potter delivered an outstanding performance. She skillfully handled a wide range of English accents across different ages, genders, and social classes, bringing the characters vividly to life. Her narration definitely enhanced enjoyment!
I voluntarily listened to a copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
September 2, 2026
Set at Oxford University, this story follows students Ginerva ,high society girl and Sidney, a different kind of student and a former spy! I always enjoy a historical fiction and this just captured me.
A mystery story with lots of twists and turns, its a fun time and the world building is terrific. The author gives us plenty to think about and work out with our characters. It's a spy story and a slow burn romance with lots of yearing and you can't get better than that.
I loved the banter between our main characters, so much so that I did an immersive read with the audiobook and epub. ELL Potter was perfection as the narrator. She's so upper crust and brought the sharp witted Gin to life in the best way. All her characters had warmth and emotion throughout the performance.
I would LOVE to see this as a series rather than a standalone. These characters have more to say and I'm 'hear' for it!
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to listen and review this title. My thoughts are my own.
A mystery story with lots of twists and turns, its a fun time and the world building is terrific. The author gives us plenty to think about and work out with our characters. It's a spy story and a slow burn romance with lots of yearing and you can't get better than that.
I loved the banter between our main characters, so much so that I did an immersive read with the audiobook and epub. ELL Potter was perfection as the narrator. She's so upper crust and brought the sharp witted Gin to life in the best way. All her characters had warmth and emotion throughout the performance.
I would LOVE to see this as a series rather than a standalone. These characters have more to say and I'm 'hear' for it!
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to listen and review this title. My thoughts are my own.
September 5, 2026
3.5 stars rounded down
I was expecting the romance to be more front and center, so my “meh” feelings on this book are probably on me. I liked the mystery and the spies vibe. I enjoyed the historical fiction setting. But the romance was really really low on the focus of this book, and I wanted it to be in the story more. And it felt like it was going to be, until the end just... dropped off?? There was an opportunity for the end to wrap up more satisfactorily while still keeping the reader interested in future books. Instead, the ending and lack of resolution with the romance made me question whether I’ll read book 2. We’ll see!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc for review.
I was expecting the romance to be more front and center, so my “meh” feelings on this book are probably on me. I liked the mystery and the spies vibe. I enjoyed the historical fiction setting. But the romance was really really low on the focus of this book, and I wanted it to be in the story more. And it felt like it was going to be, until the end just... dropped off?? There was an opportunity for the end to wrap up more satisfactorily while still keeping the reader interested in future books. Instead, the ending and lack of resolution with the romance made me question whether I’ll read book 2. We’ll see!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc for review.
September 7, 2026
I LOVED this story. Cozy British murder mystery, Oxford, clever female main character/heroine, broody yearning male lead? Sign me up!
The plot moved along nicely and the mystery intricate and intriguing.
Five stars! Hopeful for a second installment someday.
Other details: set post WW2 timeframe, clean.
The plot moved along nicely and the mystery intricate and intriguing.
Five stars! Hopeful for a second installment someday.
Other details: set post WW2 timeframe, clean.
September 19, 2026
Interesting MCs, a fascinating historical timeframe, and a promise of more to come: I liked it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Oxford Guide to Scandal and Lies by Kate Westbury
The Oxford Guide series #1. Historical spy mystery and romance. 1950’s.
Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite are both students in Oxford in 1951. They have very different goals but are recruited together as a team by the British Secret Service. She studies language and wants to prove she’s more than a decoration. He’s a bit burned out by life and war and just wants to finish his degree and get back home to put the new skills to use on the farm. They investigate each on their own, where Sidney then protects and teaches Ginevra some skills. It’s up to them to find out who poisoned the former spy. They were selected for this job for a reason but that’s a secret for another day.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Ell Potter who is able to bring life, suspense and a dash of romance to this spy novel in the early 1950’s in a British accent. Specific voices are used for Ginevra and Sidney as they bumble and then solve a mystery.
Such differences! Loved the maze and unique way they made it out. Coded messages! Spycraft and debutant shenanigans.
Intriguing, smart and a hint of flirty behavior allow these two new agents to stumble their way through the German language and pin down the killer.
3.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.
The Oxford Guide series #1. Historical spy mystery and romance. 1950’s.
Ginevra Bishop and Sidney Braithwaite are both students in Oxford in 1951. They have very different goals but are recruited together as a team by the British Secret Service. She studies language and wants to prove she’s more than a decoration. He’s a bit burned out by life and war and just wants to finish his degree and get back home to put the new skills to use on the farm. They investigate each on their own, where Sidney then protects and teaches Ginevra some skills. It’s up to them to find out who poisoned the former spy. They were selected for this job for a reason but that’s a secret for another day.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Ell Potter who is able to bring life, suspense and a dash of romance to this spy novel in the early 1950’s in a British accent. Specific voices are used for Ginevra and Sidney as they bumble and then solve a mystery.
Such differences! Loved the maze and unique way they made it out. Coded messages! Spycraft and debutant shenanigans.
Intriguing, smart and a hint of flirty behavior allow these two new agents to stumble their way through the German language and pin down the killer.
3.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.
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