Staff Pick
India Holton brings us back to her quirky and lovable Dangerous Damsels universe that is once again filled to the brim with pirates, witches, flying houses, and tea. This time we focus on two adorably awkward rival spies (Agent A and Agent B) as they attempt to keep the Queen alive. They begin their undercover mission as enemies, but with a fake marriage, fake emotions, and only one couch... things just might lead to heart palpitations. Full of cameos from our favorite heroes and villains of the previous books, Secret Service of Tea and Treason is the light summer read you need. Recommended By Mecca A., Powells.com
It takes a near genius to write a silly, frothy, comedic romance novel I can actually enjoyably read. India Holton's third entry in the Dangerous Damsels series was every bit as restoring as a strong cup of tea accompanied by shortbread. In other words, nearly perfect. Secret agents Alice and Daniel are sent on an undercover mission where they must pretend to be married. Flying houses, lots of explosions, and a generous helping of bonkers hijinks — all this and so much more await you. Recommended By Mary Jo S., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
One of Buzzfeed's Romance Books To Look Out For In 2023
Two rival spies must brave pirates, witches, and fake matrimony to save the Queen.
Known as Agent A, Alice is the top operative within the Agency of Undercover Note Takers, a secret government intelligence group that is fortunately better at espionage than at naming itself. From managing deceptive witches to bored aristocratic ladies, nothing is beyond Alice's capabilities. She has a steely composure and a plan always up her sleeve (alongside a dagger and an embroidered handkerchief). So when rumors of an assassination plot begin to circulate, she's immediately assigned to the case.
But she's not working alone. Daniel Bixby, otherwise known as Agent B and Alice's greatest rival, is given the most challenging undercover assignment of his life — pretending to be Alice's husband. Together they will assume the identity of a married couple, infiltrate a pirate house party, and foil their unpatriotic plans.
Determined to remain consummate professionals, Alice and Daniel must ignore the growing attraction between them, especially since acting on it might prove more dangerous than their target.
Review
"With moments of high comedy and incredible sweetness, a gazillion more uniquely Holton-esque shenanigans, and a wonderful neurodivergent heroine to boot, The Secret Service of Tea and Treason is joyous, marvellous fun." — Sangu Mandanna, author of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches
Review
"Oh my giddy heart! The Secret Service of Tea and Treason is brilliantly bonkers, romping fun — sleuthing shenanigans, explosive action, and most of all, radiant, romantic joy. I adored every page." — Chloe Liese, author of Two Wrongs Make a Right
Review
"The Secret Service of Tea and Treason was everything I wanted and everything I didn't know I needed. No one writes like India Holton — and I have never met a more immersive read! This Victorian romcom absolutely sparkles! It was tenderly strong, hilariously romantic, and deliciously steamy. A pitch perfect addition to this fantastical series!" — Sarah Adams, author of The Cheat Sheet
About the Author
India Holton lives in New Zealand, where she has enjoyed the typical Kiwi lifestyle of wandering around forests, living barefoot on islands, and messing about in boats. Now she lives in a cottage near the sea, writing books about uppity women and charming rogues, and drinking too much tea.