A huge thank you to the publisher Bookouture Audio and to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book! I heard a lot of buzz about this book and series, so when I saw it was available, I absolutely had to try it. I will be honest, I usually don’t like spy novels or novels set in either of the World Wars as I find they tend to be too cookie cutter. This book has turned that assumption on its head though. Jane and Arthur are an excellent pair, though I think that the Sherlock and Watson characterization that was advertised doesn’t do with of them justice. Arthur is an extremely loveable asthmatic while Jane is an equally loveable and also skilled and intelligent chain smoker. Their reluctant ally storyline had me absolutely hooked as soon as she and Marmaduke ended up on the stoop of Half-Moon Manor, and they are definitely a more likeable and potentially more intriguing pair than the classic mercurial pair.
TLDR: reluctant allies trope, awesome mashup of the cozy mystery and spy thriller novels!

Helena Dixon’s The Secret Detective Agency is a delightful historical mystery filled with intrigue, charm, and well-crafted suspense. Set in 1950s England, the story follows the determined amateur sleuth Kitty Underhay as she navigates a tangled web of secrets while running her detective agency. Dixon masterfully blends cozy mystery elements with historical detail, creating an immersive and engaging read.

The audiobook adds another layer of enjoyment to the experience, thanks to a strong narration that brings the characters and atmosphere to life. The narrator (if you have a specific narrator in mind, let me know!) does an excellent job capturing the essence of the 1950s setting, giving each character a distinct and fitting voice. Kitty’s personality—clever, determined, and slightly witty—shines through with warmth and intelligence, making her a compelling lead to follow.

Pacing is crucial in cozy mysteries, and the narrator maintains an engaging rhythm, allowing listeners to fully absorb the details without feeling rushed. Additionally, the narrator’s delivery enhances the humor and suspense, making the twists and turns even more effective.

Final Verdict
The Secret Detective Agency is a charming, well-paced mystery with endearing characters and a satisfying plot. The audiobook is a fantastic way to experience the story, offering an engaging and immersive performance that enhances the book’s atmosphere. Highly recommended for fans of historical mysteries, particularly those who enjoy a well-narrated audiobook. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to review.

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the early digital and audio copies of this fun new cozy mystery! This is set during WW2 in England and The Secret Detective Agency keeps you racing and guessing through every moment! I absolutely loved the narrator! Her accents and voices for each character were superb! The start of the novel felt a bit rushed and like you were thrown in mid story or series. I even double checked to be sure I hadn’t missed a first book in the series. But once you settle in and get to the know the characters more, it’s fun and exciting and I can’t wait for more books!

The Secret Detective Agency - Helena Dixon
Format: Audiobook
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is my first ARC from @netgalley, and it did not disappoint. The exquisite and dated writing style from @helenadixonuk and the beautiful voice from the narrator transposed me straight to the 1940s into that sleepy Devon village. Jane and Arthur are very different, and I loved how they had to put aside their differences and work together to uncover the murderer. The exchange between the two is actually quite funny. Can I just say I loved Benson, and I do hope he will stay part of this murder-solving trio.

Looking for a cosy, historical murder mystery, set in World War 2, then this is for you! I can't wait for the next book!

Thank you to @netgalley and @bookouture for allowing me to listen to this advanced copy.

#fortheloveofreading📚 #justonemorepage #booksarebetterthanpeople #bookscapemember #thesecretdetectiveagency #NetGalley
2m

The first in a new cozy detective series, that was fairly short and I have to admit to it taking me some time to warm to.

I’m sure lots of people while enjoy characters code names being nursery rhyme characters but it made me cringe a bit. That being said towards the end the story had gathered momentum, I had warmed to the setting and the characters and I was invested. If you enjoy cozy mysteries with a lady detective and a wartime setting this is for you.

Great narration 🎧
Huge thanks to Bookouture Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧

I don’t normally gravitate toward books like The Secret Detective Agency, but something about the premise caught my attention, and I’m glad I gave it a chance. This was an engaging read with a solid mix of mystery, intrigue, and well-paced storytelling that kept me turning the pages.

The plot unfolds smoothly, with enough twists to keep things interesting without feeling overcomplicated. The characters are well-developed, and while some moments felt a bit predictable, the overall experience was enjoyable. The writing style is approachable, making it an easy and entertaining read.

While it may not have been an instant favorite, I definitely found myself invested in the story and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good detective tale.

I sat on this one for a minute. I was hooked from the very beginning. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The mystery was intriguing. That being said, and maybe it's because this was an audiobook or maybe it was just me... there were just so many characters that I started to get confused around the second half and towards the end of the book. Almost to the point where I was starting to lose interest. There were so many characters with their real names and alias being revealed, I had a hard time keeping up.
That being said. I really did enjoy the book. It was witty with an interesting story. I LOVED the cat and was actually what drew me to the book. I need more Marmaduke!

'The Secret Detective Agency' strikes a great balance between serious WWII-era espionage and a cozy mystery (quirky characters, small-town setting, a notable pet). The puzzle itself is well written and without unnecessary fluff. My favorite lead is Arthur Cilento - he is humble, analytical, and brave. Miss Jane Treen is an interesting companion - capable, strategic, and perceptive, but I find her a bit insensitive.

If you enjoy reading cozy detective fiction, then I recommend Helena Dixon's book to you! Kristin Atherton does a great job narrating the various characters.

Special thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.