The Key to Deceit: An Electra McDonnell Novel

In 1940, Ellie McDonnell and her family turn over a new leaf and help the government's war effort, but when Major Ramsey offers her another job, she can't say no. A woman's body is found floating in the Thames with a bracelet and cameo locket attached, and it's clear she was involved in espionage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 21 July 2022
Publisher: St Martin's Press

In the heart of London, amidst the shadows of World War II, Ellie McDonnell and her family find themselves on a new path, deviating from their previous life of petty theft and self-serving generosity. Their decision to aid the government's war effort comes as a turning point, though it was largely imposed upon them by the stern Major Ramsey. Despite the lack of choice, Ellie cannot deny the thrill that once accompanied her acts of burglary. What she truly misses is the intellectual challenge of deciphering impossible codes and the exhilarating rush of being in forbidden places.

When Major Ramsey unexpectedly reappears with another assignment, Ellie finds herself unable to resist. A lifeless body floats in the Thames, adorned with a bracelet and a cameo locket. The woman's involvement in espionage is evident, but the question remains: which side was she on? Whose orders did she follow? And who sought her demise?

Determined to unravel the mystery, Ellie embarks on a perilous journey that takes her through the labyrinthine streets of London. She encounters a cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. From a mysterious informant to a handsome spy, Ellie must navigate through a web of lies and treachery to uncover the truth behind the dead woman's identity and the dangerous game she was playing.

As the stakes rise, Ellie realizes that she is not alone in her pursuit. Powerful forces are at work, determined to keep the truth hidden and protect their own interests. With time running out, Ellie must use all her skills and resources to outwit her enemies and bring the culprits to justice.

In the end, Ellie emerges victorious, having unraveled the mystery and exposed the truth behind the dead woman's tragic demise. She realizes that her actions may have had unintended consequences, but she also knows that she has made a difference in the fight against the forces of darkness.

As the war comes to an end, Ellie McDonnell and her family find themselves transformed. They have learned the value of sacrifice and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. Their journey has been a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of redemption.

London, 1940. After years of pilfering from the affluent and distributing their ill-gotten gains to themselves, Ellie McDonnell and her family have embarked on a new chapter, lending their support to the government's war efforts. While it is true that Major Ramsey did not leave them with much choice, Ellie must concede that she does not miss the exhilaration of breaking and entering as much as she had anticipated. What she truly misses is the intellectual challenge of deciphering impenetrable codes and the adrenaline rush that accompanies being in forbidden places.

When Major Ramsey unexpectedly reappears with another assignment, Ellie finds herself unable to resist. A lifeless body floats in the Thames, adorned with a bracelet and a cameo locket. The woman's involvement in espionage is evident, but the question remains: which side was she on? Whose orders did she follow? And who sought her demise?

Determined to unravel the mystery, Ellie embarks on a perilous journey that takes her through the labyrinthine streets of London. She encounters a cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. From a mysterious informant to a handsome spy, Ellie must navigate through a web of lies and treachery to uncover the truth behind the dead woman's identity and the dangerous game she was playing.

As the stakes rise, Ellie realizes that she is not alone in her pursuit. Powerful forces are at work, determined to keep the truth hidden and protect their own interests. With time running out, Ellie must use all her skills and resources to outwit her enemies and bring the culprits to justice.

In the end, Ellie emerges victorious, having unraveled the mystery and exposed the truth behind the dead woman's tragic demise. She realizes that her actions may have had unintended consequences, but she also knows that she has made a difference in the fight against the forces of darkness.

As the war comes to an end, Ellie McDonnell and her family find themselves transformed. They have learned the value of sacrifice and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. Their journey has been a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of redemption.

In the aftermath of the war, Ellie McDonnell and her family find themselves grappling with the consequences of their actions. The guilt and shame of their past deeds weigh heavily on their conscience, and they struggle to find a way to make amends. They decide to use their newfound knowledge and resources to help those who have been affected by the war, working tirelessly to rebuild communities and provide aid to those in need.

Through their efforts, Ellie and her family discover the true meaning of compassion and empathy. They realize that their actions were motivated by selfishness and greed, but that they can use their experiences to help others overcome similar struggles. They become advocates for social justice and work to raise awareness about the inequalities and injustices that exist in society.

As time passes, Ellie and her family's reputation begins to change. They are no longer seen as criminals or outcasts, but as heroes and role models. Their story inspires others to turn their lives around and make a positive impact on the world. Ellie becomes a respected community leader, using her platform to advocate for change and promote equality.

In the end, Ellie McDonnell and her family's journey is a testament to the power of redemption and the ability to change one's fate. They have learned that true happiness comes not from personal gain or success, but from serving others and making a difference in the world. Their story serves as a reminder that even the darkest past can be overcome, and that every person has the potential to make a positive impact on the world.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 233 x 154 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781250780508