Did I miss something? This was one of a number of books in a series, which without reading, makes little sense of the backstory for the main characters; sadly this lack of knowledge clouded the story for me. Cook seemed out of place amongst the inhabitants of London, with his worldly experience whilst he hunted down Ruby in a corrupt and dangerous setting. London was under constant threat from German bombs at the same time evil lurked on the streets. Espionage is rife as too are the gangs and murderers. The author has made good use of his research of the subject, making it an interesting read from a historical perspective.

A disappointing read which didn’t really meet my expectations or the positive reviews of others.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC for review.

The Blitz Secret is the latest in the John Cook series from Stephen Ronson and yet another gripping tale. This one is set mainly in the East End Dockland of London at the start of the Blitz. The storyline centres on a young evacuee from those parts, Frankie, who ends up on Cooks farm and in his care. When Cook takes him back to London on his birthday and his mother fails to show up following a bombing raid the story turns dark and Cook sets out to find what happens. The descriptions of life in the docklands during these early days of the blitz bombing are very graphic and realistic. Ronson has clearly researched this in depth and you get a real insight into how people lived and survived this phase of the war.
Lady Margaret, the aristocratic spy who appeared in Ronson's last novel, turns up again with her own storyline and of course the two become intertwined. The intrigue around their relationship continues as does the questions about her loyalty so this will no doubt continue in the next book.
This is a great novel for those who like mystery and adventure and are interested in WW2 history. The writing is graphic, most of the historical references seem realistic and the "whodunnit" element sustains the excitement.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Hodder and Stoughton for providing prepublication access

This is the third book in a series, all concerning the main character, John Cook. I have to say that I really enjoyed the first two books but found this third one hard to get into and not as riveting as the others. To be honest I was a little disappointed and if I had read this first I would not have bothered with the previous installments.

4.5 stars, only rounded down for a few scenes I found slightly implausible (Cook on the boat, for example). However, this is an excellent book - clear historical research, good characters, great plot and pacing. I whipped through it in two days, as it really kept my attention and interest. Would definitely recommend for anyone who likes pacy historical crime.

I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.

Very much like the author's book 'The Berlin Agent' I found 'The Blitz Secret' mostly unbelievable and incredulous. A farmer from Sussex who almost single handed defies death, bombs, execution and espionage In London (never at his home on his wartime farm) is just too much for me. This read like Superman stuff.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

This was a very interesting read. Although I wish I had read the other books in this series so I could have understood more of the elements.

This book is the third in the series and it was so easy to jump straight back into Cook’s world.

Set in WWII this book’s storyline was mostly based in London during the mass bombings. Cook is once again looking to save someone but this time he’s taken away from his farm to visit, Frankie, the evacuee he’s taken in’s family. Of course nothing goes quite to plan and London is struck by bombs causing all kinds of chaos.

I do enjoy reading these books, I’m not always a fan of books set during the war but the mysteries within them always keep me guessing and hooked. Another great read.

A great surprise! I didn't know what to expect, and this was really good! I realised this novel is part of a series but one can read it as a standalone without any problems. I loved the plot enjoying the fact that I couldn't guess anything. A good writing style has enabled me to smell, see and experience London during the blitz. I loved Cook and his calm, Margaret and her courage as well as the people of Wapping, the island. The conclusion was brilliant, intriguing and now I can't wait for the next book! Highly recommended!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

I was completely captivated by The Blitz Secret.
Catching up with John Cook as he takes his young evacuee Frankie back to London to see his family for his birthday and the action doesn't stop. When Ruby goes missing John is drawn into the underworld of London to find her, With bombs raining down and danger all around Stephen Ronson has delivered an epic 3rd installment that is so atmospheric with clever intertwining story lines.
I felt like I could smell the smoke and was holding my breath. Pacey and full of action with unpredictable twists the pages were turning non stop to keep up.
Whilst John is like a cat with 9 lives and a man who does not give up Lady Margaret is busy with her own mission. Their paths do cross but how long for?
No spoilers from me you will need to read to find out. I loved this 3rd installment and will be grabbing a copy to add to my collection. I can't wait for the 4th one! A fabulous series with great characters where you feel you are right along side them through out.
Highly recommend