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Revolution Spy #2
The Scarlet Code
1789. The Bastille has fallen...As Parisians pick souvenirs from the rubble, a killer stalks the lawless streets. His victims are female aristocrats. His executions use the most terrible methods of the ancient regime.English spy Attica Morgan is laying low in Paris, helping nobles escape. When her next charge falls victim to the killer's twisted machinations, Attica realises she alone can unmask him. But now it seems his deadly sights are set on her.As the city prisons empty, and a mob mobilises to storm Versailles, finding a dangerous criminal is never going to be easy. Attica's only hope is to enlist her old ally, reformed pirate Jemmy Avery, to track the killer though his revolutionary haunts. But even with a pirate and her fast knife, it seems Attica might not manage to stay alive.'A rip-roaring adventure' Tessa Harris on The Bastille Spy
- GenresHistorical Fiction
401 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2020
74 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Quinn
8 books285 followersC.S. Quinn is a travel and lifestyle journalist for The Times, The Guardian and The Mirror, alongside many magazines. Prior to this, Quinn's background in historic research won prestigious postgraduate funding from the British Art Council. Quinn pooled these resources, combining historical research with first-hand experiences in far-flung places to create The Thief Taker's London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
July 21, 2020
On 14 July 1789, the state prison on the east side of Paris, known as the Bastille, was attacked by an angry and aggressive mob. The prison had become a symbol of the monarchy's dictatorial rule, and the event became one of the defining moments in the Revolution that followed.
The success of the revolutionaries gave commoners throughout France the courage to rise up and fight against the nobles who had ruled them for so long.
It is against this backdrop that The Scarlet Code is set. Ordinary Parisians were starving, they couldn’t even afford that very basic of foods - bread, and as they rummage through the debris of the Bastille, looking for any saleable items, a serial killer is stalking the streets - his victims? Female aristocrats.
English spy Attica Morgan is in Paris, helping nobles to escape, but when her next charge becomes a victim of the killer, she enlists the help of her pirate friend Jemmy Avery, to discover the killer’s identity, but with a mob of thousands about to storm the palace of Versailles, all baying for the head of Marie Antoinette, Attica and Jemmy have the mother of all rescues to tackle.
A terrific adventure story, rich in historical detail, and wonderfully atmospheric. It crackles with tension, and the characters are great, not least Attica - spy, adventurer and heroine extraordinaire.
*Many thanks to Corvus Books for my hardback copy, for which I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange*
The success of the revolutionaries gave commoners throughout France the courage to rise up and fight against the nobles who had ruled them for so long.
It is against this backdrop that The Scarlet Code is set. Ordinary Parisians were starving, they couldn’t even afford that very basic of foods - bread, and as they rummage through the debris of the Bastille, looking for any saleable items, a serial killer is stalking the streets - his victims? Female aristocrats.
English spy Attica Morgan is in Paris, helping nobles to escape, but when her next charge becomes a victim of the killer, she enlists the help of her pirate friend Jemmy Avery, to discover the killer’s identity, but with a mob of thousands about to storm the palace of Versailles, all baying for the head of Marie Antoinette, Attica and Jemmy have the mother of all rescues to tackle.
A terrific adventure story, rich in historical detail, and wonderfully atmospheric. It crackles with tension, and the characters are great, not least Attica - spy, adventurer and heroine extraordinaire.
*Many thanks to Corvus Books for my hardback copy, for which I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange*
July 20, 2020
Now and again a book comes along that reads like watching a movie and this one “The Scarlet Code” by C S Quinn fits that bill perfectly. Had it been on the big screen, I would have been on the edge of my seat on many occasions, due to the tense and thrilling scenes and together with a wonderfully intriguing storyline, I was addicted from the first page.
This book is the second in the ‘Revolution Spy’ series, the first being “The Bastille Spy”, which although I know I would have enjoyed had I read first, I didn’t feel at a disadvantage for not following the characters previously.
Set during the French Revolution after the fall of the Bastille, the story features Attica Morgan, a feisty and attractive female English spy whose love for men and women alike made for a fabulous rip roaring adventure with romance, action and international intrigue.
The characters were all just superb. Jemmy, Attica’s old pirate friend was just brilliant, humorous, likeable and perfect as Attica’s partner in crime. This absorbing book never stops with the action, on virtually every page there’s excitement or breathtaking tension. With the fascinating addition of ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’, my interest piqued with every chapter, to a point by the end of the novel, I didn’t want it to finish.
Everything you could want from an adventure thriller, excitement, a fabulously endearing heroine and pirate to fall in love with, a cruel killer and some well written historical detail, this book deserves the full five stars I’m awarding it. If thrilling historical fiction is your bag, this is definitely a one for your wish list and I can’t wait to go back and read Attica’s first adventure. I hope beyond hope there’s more from her and Jemmy in the future and wish the author every success with the series.
5 stars
This book is the second in the ‘Revolution Spy’ series, the first being “The Bastille Spy”, which although I know I would have enjoyed had I read first, I didn’t feel at a disadvantage for not following the characters previously.
Set during the French Revolution after the fall of the Bastille, the story features Attica Morgan, a feisty and attractive female English spy whose love for men and women alike made for a fabulous rip roaring adventure with romance, action and international intrigue.
The characters were all just superb. Jemmy, Attica’s old pirate friend was just brilliant, humorous, likeable and perfect as Attica’s partner in crime. This absorbing book never stops with the action, on virtually every page there’s excitement or breathtaking tension. With the fascinating addition of ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’, my interest piqued with every chapter, to a point by the end of the novel, I didn’t want it to finish.
Everything you could want from an adventure thriller, excitement, a fabulously endearing heroine and pirate to fall in love with, a cruel killer and some well written historical detail, this book deserves the full five stars I’m awarding it. If thrilling historical fiction is your bag, this is definitely a one for your wish list and I can’t wait to go back and read Attica’s first adventure. I hope beyond hope there’s more from her and Jemmy in the future and wish the author every success with the series.
5 stars
July 20, 2020
The Scarlet Code is brilliantly written by author C. S. Quinn. If you want to know how the revolution began, you can read book one, The Bastille Spy. I haven't read book one, but I don't think that I missed out on following the story of The Scarlet Code.
I thought that the hardcover of The Scarlet Code is absolutely gorgeous. It looks lovely on my book shelf.
The Scarlet Code is set in Paris in 1789, when the Bastille has fallen and Parisians pick souvenirs from the rubble.
Attica Morgan and her mother were enslaved together in Virginia when she was a girl and very sadly her mother died. And her father is Lord Morgan.
In Lisbon 1789, Attica Morgan an English spy, jumped on a ship and then my heart did a sudden big flip as she knifes two guards, which they wasn't expecting a woman on their ship. And neither did I think a woman would be brave enough to knife two guards, but as Attica is a spy, she is very quick and very strong.
Spy, Attica is on the ship to rescue Fleur de Lucile, whose husband is to address the King and convince him to sign the rights of Man.
As Bastille has fallen a killer stalks the streets. There is much more that happens throughout this brilliant novel.
I thought that the hardcover of The Scarlet Code is absolutely gorgeous. It looks lovely on my book shelf.
The Scarlet Code is set in Paris in 1789, when the Bastille has fallen and Parisians pick souvenirs from the rubble.
Attica Morgan and her mother were enslaved together in Virginia when she was a girl and very sadly her mother died. And her father is Lord Morgan.
In Lisbon 1789, Attica Morgan an English spy, jumped on a ship and then my heart did a sudden big flip as she knifes two guards, which they wasn't expecting a woman on their ship. And neither did I think a woman would be brave enough to knife two guards, but as Attica is a spy, she is very quick and very strong.
Spy, Attica is on the ship to rescue Fleur de Lucile, whose husband is to address the King and convince him to sign the rights of Man.
As Bastille has fallen a killer stalks the streets. There is much more that happens throughout this brilliant novel.
June 21, 2023
Don't know why I felt I had read books from this series before but if I did I did not mark them here as having been read. French Revolution with a very daring female spy at the center of the action. I felt a bit uncomfortable with the action and kept trying to nudge my brain into remembering what the characters and scenarios reminded me of. Clearly another series all jumbled in my memory. Oh well.
It was just $1.99 for the kindle but I don't think I will try any of the more expensive books in series.
It was just $1.99 for the kindle but I don't think I will try any of the more expensive books in series.
August 6, 2020
The Scarlet Code is the second book in C.S. Quinn's Revolutionary Spy series featuring female spy and trained assassin, Attica Morgan. Although I wish I'd had time to read the first book in the series, The Bastille Spy, I'm pleased to say The Scarlet Code works perfectly well as a standalone read.
Attica Morgan makes a feisty and engaging heroine. She's brave, smart, resourceful and is handy in a tight spot; not surprising when you've been trained as an assassin. And believe me, Attica gets herself into plenty of tight spots. Given her African heritage and keen sense of justice, Attica is passionately opposed to the slave trade and committed to doing whatever she can to end it. This includes rescuing abolitionists from the clutches of those whose wealth and power are threatened by the idea of equality for all.
I really liked Attica's friendship with dashing pirate Jemmy Avery, himself the product of "dockyard alliances and foreign flings". It's a partnership of equals, fuelled by light-hearted banter with just a hint that something more than friendship could lie beneath the surface. Equally intriguing is Attica's relationship with mentor and spy-master, Atherton. He's a key figure in an organisation known as the Sealed Knot, "a partially legal hinterland of spies, crooks and thieves" which secretly pursues the interests of the British government at home and abroad. Atherton is an inventor of all sorts of gadgets useful for espionage; an 18th century version of 'Q' from Ian Fleming's James Bond novels, if you like.
Set against the backdrop of revolutionary France, Attica finds herself beset by enemies on every side. Not just ruthless killers on the streets of Paris and those opposed to the abolition of slavery but an old adversary, none other than Robespierre himself. The contrast between the wealth and excesses of the nobility and the poverty of the citizens of Paris is stark, making for exciting scenes as the populace rise in protest. Add to the mix an evil villain described as "A hunter... a man who stalks by night", plenty of narrow escapes and some fantastic set pieces in locations such as the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles and you have all the ingredients for an exciting page-turner.
Can Attica turn the tables on those out to thwart her? She'd not be worth her salt if she can't. Perhaps, though, there is one enemy who knows her weaknesses better than she does herself. The trap is set, will she swallow the bait? It's going to be a battle of wits.
From its dramatic opening chapter, The Scarlet Code moves along at a terrific pace. A glorious mixture of intrigue and swashbuckling action worthy of a golden age Hollywood movie starring Errol Flynn, it will delight readers who like their historical fiction to come with a generous helping of adventure. As for me... I may just have found a new series to fall in love with.
I received an advance review copy courtesy of Corvus and Readers First.
Attica Morgan makes a feisty and engaging heroine. She's brave, smart, resourceful and is handy in a tight spot; not surprising when you've been trained as an assassin. And believe me, Attica gets herself into plenty of tight spots. Given her African heritage and keen sense of justice, Attica is passionately opposed to the slave trade and committed to doing whatever she can to end it. This includes rescuing abolitionists from the clutches of those whose wealth and power are threatened by the idea of equality for all.
I really liked Attica's friendship with dashing pirate Jemmy Avery, himself the product of "dockyard alliances and foreign flings". It's a partnership of equals, fuelled by light-hearted banter with just a hint that something more than friendship could lie beneath the surface. Equally intriguing is Attica's relationship with mentor and spy-master, Atherton. He's a key figure in an organisation known as the Sealed Knot, "a partially legal hinterland of spies, crooks and thieves" which secretly pursues the interests of the British government at home and abroad. Atherton is an inventor of all sorts of gadgets useful for espionage; an 18th century version of 'Q' from Ian Fleming's James Bond novels, if you like.
Set against the backdrop of revolutionary France, Attica finds herself beset by enemies on every side. Not just ruthless killers on the streets of Paris and those opposed to the abolition of slavery but an old adversary, none other than Robespierre himself. The contrast between the wealth and excesses of the nobility and the poverty of the citizens of Paris is stark, making for exciting scenes as the populace rise in protest. Add to the mix an evil villain described as "A hunter... a man who stalks by night", plenty of narrow escapes and some fantastic set pieces in locations such as the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles and you have all the ingredients for an exciting page-turner.
Can Attica turn the tables on those out to thwart her? She'd not be worth her salt if she can't. Perhaps, though, there is one enemy who knows her weaknesses better than she does herself. The trap is set, will she swallow the bait? It's going to be a battle of wits.
From its dramatic opening chapter, The Scarlet Code moves along at a terrific pace. A glorious mixture of intrigue and swashbuckling action worthy of a golden age Hollywood movie starring Errol Flynn, it will delight readers who like their historical fiction to come with a generous helping of adventure. As for me... I may just have found a new series to fall in love with.
I received an advance review copy courtesy of Corvus and Readers First.
February 3, 2021
3.5/5
This is a difficult rating to give because I do love Quinn's writing. I love the way she crafts her characters, the emotions evoked from their interactions and relationships. Yet, there's something uncomfortable in a white author writing about a Black woman freed from slavery.
Granted, this is likely not Quinn's own beliefs. She's writing about a time period where slave plantations were still popular, where white men still owned slaves and bragged about it, where women were beneath men and Black women were... even farther down the scale. So the things she writes about are very much thoughts that would've been bandied about at the time. That doesn't really make them any less uncomfortable, especially when written by a white woman. I do think this stands within the case of 'if it's not your minority experience, don't write about it', i.e. write a Black character by all means, but don't write about her experience of being a slave, or of being a Black woman.
Other than this, I enjoyed the book. It was a lot more subdued than the first book in that there was less frivolous piracy and more focus on progressing relationships and finding a personal moral compass. It wasn't necessarily a downfall of the book, it was by no means a bad book. It just felt like our characters got a bit more serious. There's also definitely a lot more romance-related content in this one. There were, on occasion, some scenes which were a little too convenient. I would've liked a bit more on people like Lafayette and Marie Antoinette, as we seemed to move on quite quickly from their scenes. I would also have loved more of the build-up to the women's revolution - it didn't quite have the same 'hype', for lack of a better word, as the build-up to the Bastille revolution.
Nonetheless, it was a decent book. I still adore Attica and Jemmy with all my heart and I'm really interested to see if Attica really has had her happy ending, or if there's more in store for the duo.
Thank you to Atlantic Books and C S Quinn for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This is a difficult rating to give because I do love Quinn's writing. I love the way she crafts her characters, the emotions evoked from their interactions and relationships. Yet, there's something uncomfortable in a white author writing about a Black woman freed from slavery.
Granted, this is likely not Quinn's own beliefs. She's writing about a time period where slave plantations were still popular, where white men still owned slaves and bragged about it, where women were beneath men and Black women were... even farther down the scale. So the things she writes about are very much thoughts that would've been bandied about at the time. That doesn't really make them any less uncomfortable, especially when written by a white woman. I do think this stands within the case of 'if it's not your minority experience, don't write about it', i.e. write a Black character by all means, but don't write about her experience of being a slave, or of being a Black woman.
Other than this, I enjoyed the book. It was a lot more subdued than the first book in that there was less frivolous piracy and more focus on progressing relationships and finding a personal moral compass. It wasn't necessarily a downfall of the book, it was by no means a bad book. It just felt like our characters got a bit more serious. There's also definitely a lot more romance-related content in this one. There were, on occasion, some scenes which were a little too convenient. I would've liked a bit more on people like Lafayette and Marie Antoinette, as we seemed to move on quite quickly from their scenes. I would also have loved more of the build-up to the women's revolution - it didn't quite have the same 'hype', for lack of a better word, as the build-up to the Bastille revolution.
Nonetheless, it was a decent book. I still adore Attica and Jemmy with all my heart and I'm really interested to see if Attica really has had her happy ending, or if there's more in store for the duo.
Thank you to Atlantic Books and C S Quinn for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
November 10, 2021
Excellent book, only thing that's disappointing is that there isn't more of them.
Really enjoyed reading about the French Revolution with the authors little fictionalised twists throughout. Especially the pimpernel character. Plus the fact she was a womaniser, absolutely unexpected. Love it.
I will note that the character's side romance story didn't go the way that I had hoped - I'm generally not into the romance part of books but I appreciated how this one pushed her values. Does she want freedom and adventure or does she want to be loyal to her country and have the ability to impact many other people's lives?
Definitely a good book. I will be reading more by this author.
Really enjoyed reading about the French Revolution with the authors little fictionalised twists throughout. Especially the pimpernel character. Plus the fact she was a womaniser, absolutely unexpected. Love it.
I will note that the character's side romance story didn't go the way that I had hoped - I'm generally not into the romance part of books but I appreciated how this one pushed her values. Does she want freedom and adventure or does she want to be loyal to her country and have the ability to impact many other people's lives?
Definitely a good book. I will be reading more by this author.
Read
July 27, 2020 The Revolution Comes.
Book two in the Attica Morgan series and what a book it was! Book two sees Attica and Jemmy caught between the revolutionary zeal of the common folk of France and an indifferent King; whose position is further undermined by his Queen Marie Antoinette whose extravagance knows no bounds.
Add Robespierre to the mix. Is he a man of the revolution as he supposes or a self serving autocrat out for whatever serves him best!
Also the Bastille has fallen, the prisoners released and a killer stalks the streets. His victims are female aristocrats and he murders them in the most brutal fashion. Attica whilst helping nobles escape finds herself a target of this killer and she must unmask him before she herself is killed!
A great action-adventure that conjures up it's setting and places the reader on the streets of revolutionary France. Highly recommended.
Book two in the Attica Morgan series and what a book it was! Book two sees Attica and Jemmy caught between the revolutionary zeal of the common folk of France and an indifferent King; whose position is further undermined by his Queen Marie Antoinette whose extravagance knows no bounds.
Add Robespierre to the mix. Is he a man of the revolution as he supposes or a self serving autocrat out for whatever serves him best!
Also the Bastille has fallen, the prisoners released and a killer stalks the streets. His victims are female aristocrats and he murders them in the most brutal fashion. Attica whilst helping nobles escape finds herself a target of this killer and she must unmask him before she herself is killed!
A great action-adventure that conjures up it's setting and places the reader on the streets of revolutionary France. Highly recommended.
July 22, 2020
This is a great swashbuckling adventure. It is the second book in the Revolution Spy series although you don’t need to have read the first book to enjoy this one you will probably want to after reading this one. This is a really fast paced historical novel set at the beginning of the French Revolution and during a time of extreme poverty and slavery. This book really feels quite evocative of this time period especially the extreme differences between the aristocracy and the common people and of course the power and intrigue between England and France. All the main characters are very engaging especially Attica Morgan the leading lady who has the task of revealing a killer that threatens the streets of Paris...
August 6, 2020
4.5 stars: This is a fast-paced adventure, packed with epic battles and feisty, fun characters. I hadn’t read the first in the series (The Bastille Spy), but you didn’t need to have read this to enjoy The Scarlet Code. Jemmy is an endearing character and one to root for – his flirty banter with Attica is fun and keeps the book from becoming too bogged down with historical details. It was never once boring or too descriptive, which is something I sometimes find with historical settings. Attica is a feisty lead heroine and is a character to admire! The chapters are nice and short, making it an easy read and very difficult to put down!
I was really impressed, and will be buying the first in the series.
I was really impressed, and will be buying the first in the series.
February 14, 2021
The Scarlet code by C. S. Quinn. A fairly pedestrian read - not a page turner. The story is driven mostly by dialog, so there isn't much description of places or people. The story is not very thrilling from my point of view, since I prefer stories that have more layers. It does give a glance at the history of the times. The ending opens the door to the next novel, which I won't read.
October 1, 2020
Not my cup of tea
as a big fan of the thief taker series I found the Scarlet Code disappointing, and banal.
Reviews are subjective.
as a big fan of the thief taker series I found the Scarlet Code disappointing, and banal.
Reviews are subjective.
November 3, 2020
A Revolutionary Adventure
Ever since the fall of the Bastille, Paris has been a different place. The people still starve and die on the street but there is a newfound confidence, the possibility of change proven within their own city.
Attica Morgan has not been idle, working behind the scenes to smuggle worthy aristocrats out of Paris to safety under the pseudonym of The Scarlet Pimpernel.
When female abolitionists begin to turn up dead, killed in brutal and archaic ways, Attica must discover who the killer is but more importantly they are doing such unspeakable things. As the plot narrows and the city’s unrest begins to boil over again, all things seem to point to Robespierre, the unassuming lawyer.
I greatly enjoyed the first book in the Revolution Spy series, The Bastille Spy, and have been eagerly awaiting this sequel. The Scarlet Code picks up just soon enough after the first book to be immediately accessible, but just long enough that you get the idea that things have been ticking along while we were looking away.
As with the first book, when I began to read The Scarlet Code I had a bad feeling that I was going to have a hard time getting through this large 400 page hardcover, as I am not an avid historical fiction reader. However, once again the next thing I knew I was 100 pages in and had not stopped for lunch. C.S. Quinn has a gift for the gripping adventure which makes time fly and pages turn.
With a wonderfully classic feel, this series continually brings me right back to The Three Musketeers, The Prisoner of Zenda, and indeed The Scarlet Pimpernel. The author’s knack for era is fantastic, and I love the effortless way she sets scenes and places the reader in the culture of pre-revolutionary Paris.
I thoroughly enjoyed Attica and Jemmy’s friendship again, as well as the brilliant equality of gender between them. The message of female equality is a strong one in this story, and I love the way it looks back at a historical moment to show how women have indeed always been equally capable and influential throughout time, though the records don’t always reflect that.
I would recommend this series to any fiction lover, and anyone looking for a quick and adventurous romp through revolutionary Paris. Fans of Dumas and Baroness Orczy will want to read this modern take on the French classics.
Ever since the fall of the Bastille, Paris has been a different place. The people still starve and die on the street but there is a newfound confidence, the possibility of change proven within their own city.
Attica Morgan has not been idle, working behind the scenes to smuggle worthy aristocrats out of Paris to safety under the pseudonym of The Scarlet Pimpernel.
When female abolitionists begin to turn up dead, killed in brutal and archaic ways, Attica must discover who the killer is but more importantly they are doing such unspeakable things. As the plot narrows and the city’s unrest begins to boil over again, all things seem to point to Robespierre, the unassuming lawyer.
I greatly enjoyed the first book in the Revolution Spy series, The Bastille Spy, and have been eagerly awaiting this sequel. The Scarlet Code picks up just soon enough after the first book to be immediately accessible, but just long enough that you get the idea that things have been ticking along while we were looking away.
As with the first book, when I began to read The Scarlet Code I had a bad feeling that I was going to have a hard time getting through this large 400 page hardcover, as I am not an avid historical fiction reader. However, once again the next thing I knew I was 100 pages in and had not stopped for lunch. C.S. Quinn has a gift for the gripping adventure which makes time fly and pages turn.
With a wonderfully classic feel, this series continually brings me right back to The Three Musketeers, The Prisoner of Zenda, and indeed The Scarlet Pimpernel. The author’s knack for era is fantastic, and I love the effortless way she sets scenes and places the reader in the culture of pre-revolutionary Paris.
I thoroughly enjoyed Attica and Jemmy’s friendship again, as well as the brilliant equality of gender between them. The message of female equality is a strong one in this story, and I love the way it looks back at a historical moment to show how women have indeed always been equally capable and influential throughout time, though the records don’t always reflect that.
I would recommend this series to any fiction lover, and anyone looking for a quick and adventurous romp through revolutionary Paris. Fans of Dumas and Baroness Orczy will want to read this modern take on the French classics.
August 7, 2020
The Scarlet Code, is an exceptional additional to The Bastille Spy series, and I enjoyed this sequel just as much as the first one. I love how the history of the French Revolution intertwines with the plot and the colourful and interesting characters of Jemmy and Attica. Both are considers social outcast, Jemmy being a pirate while Attica is a woman born out of wedlock to an African mother, and an English father. Therefore, she is seen as a noble through association but not quite fitting into the high class society she grew up in.
In this instalment, we follow the events of the previous book as the French low class becomes agitated with the monarchy and the high class. People are starved and the price of bread continues to increase, causing the public to starve. Robespierre works in the shadows to engineer a rebellion and forms plans to attempt an assassination on the Queen - Marie Antoinette. Attica and Jemmy work together to try and prevent Robespierre’s plans from happening.
Once again the writing flows beautifully and the short chapters are a blessing. The book almost reads like a movie with each chapter connecting like a scene in a film. It makes the book a quick read and there’s never a dull moment to be had!
In this instalment, we follow the events of the previous book as the French low class becomes agitated with the monarchy and the high class. People are starved and the price of bread continues to increase, causing the public to starve. Robespierre works in the shadows to engineer a rebellion and forms plans to attempt an assassination on the Queen - Marie Antoinette. Attica and Jemmy work together to try and prevent Robespierre’s plans from happening.
Once again the writing flows beautifully and the short chapters are a blessing. The book almost reads like a movie with each chapter connecting like a scene in a film. It makes the book a quick read and there’s never a dull moment to be had!
August 13, 2020
Thank you to @readersfirst and @atlanticbooks (Corvus imprint) for my #gifted copy of The Scarlet Code.
This is the second book in the Revolution Spy Series. I absolutely loved The Bastille Spy last year so I was impatiently waiting on this next instalment to drop.
It’s a brilliant continuation, I adore C.S. Quinn’s writing. She somehow manages to blend historical language with modern day flare & humour. The relationship between Attica & Jemmy is one of the best I’ve read. They bicker and bluster around each other but the sarcasm and wit is hilarious at times. Even in the most unlikely of scenes, while fighting for their lives they’re making quips at each other. God it’s just so much fun! Attica is a nerd, a complete science geek but boy can she wield a knife! She’s like a crazy amalgamation of Hermione Granger & Caelaena Sardothianen.....a utterly mad female James Bond. The villains are loathsome and there’s plenty of twists in the plot to keep you guessing. Short chapters (5 pages was the longest I think) so it’s such a speedy read. It’s told from multiple POVs but this really adds depth to the characters. This is my kind of Historical Fiction, full of action, adventure, subterfuge & a cracking story to boot! Argh I love them!!!!
This is the second book in the Revolution Spy Series. I absolutely loved The Bastille Spy last year so I was impatiently waiting on this next instalment to drop.
It’s a brilliant continuation, I adore C.S. Quinn’s writing. She somehow manages to blend historical language with modern day flare & humour. The relationship between Attica & Jemmy is one of the best I’ve read. They bicker and bluster around each other but the sarcasm and wit is hilarious at times. Even in the most unlikely of scenes, while fighting for their lives they’re making quips at each other. God it’s just so much fun! Attica is a nerd, a complete science geek but boy can she wield a knife! She’s like a crazy amalgamation of Hermione Granger & Caelaena Sardothianen.....a utterly mad female James Bond. The villains are loathsome and there’s plenty of twists in the plot to keep you guessing. Short chapters (5 pages was the longest I think) so it’s such a speedy read. It’s told from multiple POVs but this really adds depth to the characters. This is my kind of Historical Fiction, full of action, adventure, subterfuge & a cracking story to boot! Argh I love them!!!!
August 23, 2020
The second In the Revolutionary Spy series. Attica Morgan is an English spy living temporarily in Paris, helping nobles to escape. At the same time a killer is at large and his victims are female aristocracy. His next casualty is one of those who Attica is trying to assist. Attica enlists the help of her old friend and pirate, Jemmy Avery. It’s not going to be easy with a mob on its way to storm Versailles!
I loved the first book in the series, The Bastille Spy, so I was looking forward very much to reading The Scarlet Code. I’m pleased to announce It didn’t disappoint! It’s another fabulous adventure story and took me on another rollercoaster of a ride. It’s fast paced and action packed and I just love the characters of Attica and Jemmy. They make a great intrepid duo. Historical fact is combined with fiction making it a well researched piece of writing. It’s beautifully written with a smattering of humour. There is a good sense of time and place as there was in the first book, I almost felt I was there. The mob’s anger as they stormed Versailles was palpable. Scary times!
A fun and entertaining read which had me gripped until the end. Highly recommended for all those swashbuckling thriller fans out there!
I loved the first book in the series, The Bastille Spy, so I was looking forward very much to reading The Scarlet Code. I’m pleased to announce It didn’t disappoint! It’s another fabulous adventure story and took me on another rollercoaster of a ride. It’s fast paced and action packed and I just love the characters of Attica and Jemmy. They make a great intrepid duo. Historical fact is combined with fiction making it a well researched piece of writing. It’s beautifully written with a smattering of humour. There is a good sense of time and place as there was in the first book, I almost felt I was there. The mob’s anger as they stormed Versailles was palpable. Scary times!
A fun and entertaining read which had me gripped until the end. Highly recommended for all those swashbuckling thriller fans out there!
July 21, 2020
Overall an enjoyable read!
Attica is a badass heroine with strong motivations and a good story to follow.
The build-up to the French Revolution is not a period of history I know much about but I feel like the author was very good at setting the historic scene with all the detail about outfits and the cities and I loved the incorporation of real historical events and situating the characters in to help or hinder the situation.
It was very fast-paced, with short chapters, so I flew through reading it. However, I feel like there could’ve been a little more depth to it, it felt like some of the events could have been elaborated on and some of the minor characters were conveniently in the right place at the right time to push the main character onwards. Having said that, I may have missed out on some recurring characters’ development as I have not read the first book, and there was enough recap of their histories that you could follow the story easily so it wasn’t a major loss.
I loved the romance subplot, it didn’t overwhelm the story but was an enjoyable element to have running alongside the events taking place.
Attica is a badass heroine with strong motivations and a good story to follow.
The build-up to the French Revolution is not a period of history I know much about but I feel like the author was very good at setting the historic scene with all the detail about outfits and the cities and I loved the incorporation of real historical events and situating the characters in to help or hinder the situation.
It was very fast-paced, with short chapters, so I flew through reading it. However, I feel like there could’ve been a little more depth to it, it felt like some of the events could have been elaborated on and some of the minor characters were conveniently in the right place at the right time to push the main character onwards. Having said that, I may have missed out on some recurring characters’ development as I have not read the first book, and there was enough recap of their histories that you could follow the story easily so it wasn’t a major loss.
I loved the romance subplot, it didn’t overwhelm the story but was an enjoyable element to have running alongside the events taking place.
November 28, 2020
I'd like to start off this review by thanking Readers First and Corvus for sending me a copy of the book. I'd also like to say that this book ended up on my 'did not finish' pile, so my review is solely based on what I did read...
When I read the first impression of The Scarlet Code, I knew it wasn't something that was really for me - so I was pleasantly surprised to see I had won a copy as I am always excited to try something new.
However, I really struggled to get into this. The characters were quirky and enjoyable and the plot and storyline seemed exciting, but this certainly isn't for me. I tried multiple reading sessions to delve into this but there was just something about it that didn't stick with me or entice me to finish up the story, which is why it's ended up on my 'did not finish' pile and hasn't come off since.
My partner, who is someone who enjoys these sorts of books has said this is definitely something that would interest him, and I have friends who have told me they thoroughly enjoyed how exciting and thrilling this was - so I know this definitely has potential. But just not for me, sorry!
When I read the first impression of The Scarlet Code, I knew it wasn't something that was really for me - so I was pleasantly surprised to see I had won a copy as I am always excited to try something new.
However, I really struggled to get into this. The characters were quirky and enjoyable and the plot and storyline seemed exciting, but this certainly isn't for me. I tried multiple reading sessions to delve into this but there was just something about it that didn't stick with me or entice me to finish up the story, which is why it's ended up on my 'did not finish' pile and hasn't come off since.
My partner, who is someone who enjoys these sorts of books has said this is definitely something that would interest him, and I have friends who have told me they thoroughly enjoyed how exciting and thrilling this was - so I know this definitely has potential. But just not for me, sorry!
December 21, 2020
A rollicking good tale'
'Thoroughly enjoyable, highly recommend'
'Exciting, swashbuckling adventure'
'Everything you could want from an adventure thriller: excitement, a fabulously endearing heroine and pirate to fall in love with, a cruel killer and... well-written historical detail. Superb.'
1789. The Bastille has fallen...
As Parisians pick souvenirs from the rubble, a killer stalks the lawless streets. His victims are female aristocrats. His executions use the most terrible methods of the ancient regime.
English spy Attica Morgan is laying low in Paris, helping nobles escape. When her next charge falls victim to the killer's twisted machinations, Attica realises she alone can unmask him. But now it seems his deadly sights are set on her.
As the city prisons empty, and a mob mobilises to storm Versailles, finding a dangerous criminal is never going to be easy. Attica's only hope is to enlist her old ally, reformed pirate Jemmy Avery, to track the killer though his revolutionary haunts. But even with a pirate and her fast knife, it seems Attica might not manage to stay alive.
'A rip-roaring adventure' Tessa Harris on The Bastille Spy
Read preview >
'Thoroughly enjoyable, highly recommend'
'Exciting, swashbuckling adventure'
'Everything you could want from an adventure thriller: excitement, a fabulously endearing heroine and pirate to fall in love with, a cruel killer and... well-written historical detail. Superb.'
1789. The Bastille has fallen...
As Parisians pick souvenirs from the rubble, a killer stalks the lawless streets. His victims are female aristocrats. His executions use the most terrible methods of the ancient regime.
English spy Attica Morgan is laying low in Paris, helping nobles escape. When her next charge falls victim to the killer's twisted machinations, Attica realises she alone can unmask him. But now it seems his deadly sights are set on her.
As the city prisons empty, and a mob mobilises to storm Versailles, finding a dangerous criminal is never going to be easy. Attica's only hope is to enlist her old ally, reformed pirate Jemmy Avery, to track the killer though his revolutionary haunts. But even with a pirate and her fast knife, it seems Attica might not manage to stay alive.
'A rip-roaring adventure' Tessa Harris on The Bastille Spy
Read preview >
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2020
In spite of being the second book in a series, I read this one without any problems, although I will get myself a copy of the first when I can, simply to find out more about how Attica's story began.
It's set at the time of the French revolution, the starving citizens of Paris have stormed the Bastille and now their sights are set on the Queen and King. We've all heard the stories and seen the films, of the Scarlet Pimpernel, rescuing members of the aristocracy and smuggling them away to England. This is a slightly different take on that story, those most at risk are abolitionists, speaking out and trying to get the king to abolish slavery. These are the ones that English spy Attica and her friend, pirate Jemmy, are trying to save. But as the mob advances on Versailles, and political wrangling shows a different story from that they have been told, they end up averting an execution.
The book moves along at a cracking pace so that even those with no interest in history would enjoy reading it.
It's set at the time of the French revolution, the starving citizens of Paris have stormed the Bastille and now their sights are set on the Queen and King. We've all heard the stories and seen the films, of the Scarlet Pimpernel, rescuing members of the aristocracy and smuggling them away to England. This is a slightly different take on that story, those most at risk are abolitionists, speaking out and trying to get the king to abolish slavery. These are the ones that English spy Attica and her friend, pirate Jemmy, are trying to save. But as the mob advances on Versailles, and political wrangling shows a different story from that they have been told, they end up averting an execution.
The book moves along at a cracking pace so that even those with no interest in history would enjoy reading it.
July 29, 2020
Initially I was wary of this book as it wasn't normally my 'type' of book being historical fiction. However, by chapter two I was hooked and ate my words very quickly!
I hadn't read the first book and had a few concerns that, due to this being a sequel, that I may struggle to understand what was going on. But this book is an adventure that keeps you hooked and explains situations and develops characters in a way that allows you to follow along happily.
The book follows the mission of English spy Attica alongside her pirate friend Jemmy who helps to keep her alive, as well as keeping a spark in her life! I found myself falling for Jemmy and his loyalty and passion for Attica, while admiring Attica as the intelligent and feisty individual that she is.
Towards the end of the book I was completely hooked and just sat on the edge of my sofa until I finished the book! I adored the ending and am desperate to read more about their adventures - I have definitely found myself a new series in these books!
I hadn't read the first book and had a few concerns that, due to this being a sequel, that I may struggle to understand what was going on. But this book is an adventure that keeps you hooked and explains situations and develops characters in a way that allows you to follow along happily.
The book follows the mission of English spy Attica alongside her pirate friend Jemmy who helps to keep her alive, as well as keeping a spark in her life! I found myself falling for Jemmy and his loyalty and passion for Attica, while admiring Attica as the intelligent and feisty individual that she is.
Towards the end of the book I was completely hooked and just sat on the edge of my sofa until I finished the book! I adored the ending and am desperate to read more about their adventures - I have definitely found myself a new series in these books!
July 22, 2021
The Scarlet Code by CS Quinn is set in Paris in 1789. Attica is a female English spy working on helping nobles escape from kidnappers. However she is drawn into a new mission when a killer starts targeting the very people she is trying to help.
She sets out along with a pirate called Jemmy to find out who the killer is and why they seem to have a political stance. This seems to be linked to the freeing slaves and as her mother was one, it draws her in.
Alongside this is a mob of women set to storm Versailles and kill the queen. Are they being led to their deaths by a devious little lawyer who seems to have a duplicitous side
This novel is very enjoyable to read, and extremely well written. It brings the past to life and I felt drawn into the story even though it could be a little complex. I really enjoyed the complex nature of Attica and her relationship with the pirate Jemmy.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to read a historical novel with a fiery female character.
She sets out along with a pirate called Jemmy to find out who the killer is and why they seem to have a political stance. This seems to be linked to the freeing slaves and as her mother was one, it draws her in.
Alongside this is a mob of women set to storm Versailles and kill the queen. Are they being led to their deaths by a devious little lawyer who seems to have a duplicitous side
This novel is very enjoyable to read, and extremely well written. It brings the past to life and I felt drawn into the story even though it could be a little complex. I really enjoyed the complex nature of Attica and her relationship with the pirate Jemmy.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to read a historical novel with a fiery female character.
July 25, 2020
I really enjoyed the first book in this series "The Bastille Spy" written by C.S.Quin and just couldn't put it down, so I was delighted to find she had written the follow on.
In this book set in Paris in the year 1789 English spy Attica Morgan teams up with pirate Jemmy Avery to complete the task in hand, which is helping the nobles to escape.
Sadly for her these actions cause a killer with a twisted mind to turn his attentions on her and she is faced with many difficult decisions on what to do for the best.
Coupled with this is the fact she is to be married in England in just a few days so must return.
The reformed pirate Jemmy is always at her side and plays a vital role in keeping her alive to return to England.
An interesting addition at the end of this story is "Truth or Fiction Which of these 5 Events really happened" ..
Unlock the secret history of The Scarlet Code.
In this book set in Paris in the year 1789 English spy Attica Morgan teams up with pirate Jemmy Avery to complete the task in hand, which is helping the nobles to escape.
Sadly for her these actions cause a killer with a twisted mind to turn his attentions on her and she is faced with many difficult decisions on what to do for the best.
Coupled with this is the fact she is to be married in England in just a few days so must return.
The reformed pirate Jemmy is always at her side and plays a vital role in keeping her alive to return to England.
An interesting addition at the end of this story is "Truth or Fiction Which of these 5 Events really happened" ..
Unlock the secret history of The Scarlet Code.
July 27, 2020
This isn't a book I would normally read but I'm so glad I did! To use a terrible cliche, I really was gripped from the start!
The story revolves around English spy Attica Morgan, assisted by her pirate friend Jemmy Avery, who is on a mission in Paris helping nobles escape from the mob-rule of the revolution. It's not long before they are both drawn into a twisted murderous plot put in place by the evil Marquis de Salvatore. Behind everything pulling the strings, and often two steps ahead, is the infamous French lawyer Robespierre, who slowly but surely draws the net tighter and tighter around Attica and Jemmy.
The mixture of fact and fiction is masterly and you can tell the author really has an in depth knowledge of history and the French Revolution. The chapters are short, sharp and action packed. I won't say I couldn't put it down, but it did only take me three days to read all 379 pages which I think is pretty good going!
The story revolves around English spy Attica Morgan, assisted by her pirate friend Jemmy Avery, who is on a mission in Paris helping nobles escape from the mob-rule of the revolution. It's not long before they are both drawn into a twisted murderous plot put in place by the evil Marquis de Salvatore. Behind everything pulling the strings, and often two steps ahead, is the infamous French lawyer Robespierre, who slowly but surely draws the net tighter and tighter around Attica and Jemmy.
The mixture of fact and fiction is masterly and you can tell the author really has an in depth knowledge of history and the French Revolution. The chapters are short, sharp and action packed. I won't say I couldn't put it down, but it did only take me three days to read all 379 pages which I think is pretty good going!
April 7, 2021
I loved it. Specially the part when Jemmy (the pirate) tells that "manners aren't always helpful". Also this book tells us the different people in our society. When your a noble or peasant. But sone people choice to be a shadow, like Attica. The society around her will not know that a girl. Who is just a daughter of a Cango peasant and a Bastard father will be a Spy of there country. I like to read more to justify the title Codes. I didn't read or i need more about codes. Mystery books usually give a intense feeling to a reader like I want more or what's next. Reading this you will ask for more. Specially in the part when you also decode some codes. Can i read more of this book. This is my first time using this site and its funny to read for free. I just wish for more. But, all in all i like the book. One of the genres i like is this kibd of book i wish i can read more or tell more.
July 16, 2020
Despite this novel being the second book in the series you don't need to have read the first in order to follow the story. I do also recommend the first novel >The Bastille Spy. Both these books are set in France. This story follows from when The Bastille has fallen - the people of France have won the fight. But a killer is at large. As in the first book by C S Quinn the heroine and spy in this story is female - Attica Morgan - a feisty woman who will take on any one. She is helping nobles escape the terror on the streets but as the killer then makes one of her charges the next victim it is clear that she alone can bring him down ... if she can find out who it is. As the murderer decides Attica is his next victim will she fall foul to his actions or will she succeed in outing the killer...........I won't spoil the outcome but you will be on the edge of your seat
July 21, 2020
I was again surprised to enjoy this genre. I studied history so I’m not unfamiliar with the revolution and the unnecessary suffering it created. I really liked the pairing of Attica and Jemmy I was really routing for her to leave Atherton at the alter for that romantic adventure and I liked the fact that it hung in the air at the end despite her marrying. She was a great character and most unsuspecting female lead which was unusual particularly for the history of the book which made a great theme and I really felt that the author wrote this deliberately and extremely well. Centime was an excellent femme fatal.I liked to hate Max he thought he was cunning and clever and the hall of mirrors was masterful in unmasking him for what he was. A really good read. I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2020
The Scarlet Code is not a book I would normally have picked by looking at the cover, however this had me gripped from the beginning. This is a fab book which has crime, mystery and pirates all involved, it’s main character Attica is a spy who also has a second job which I can’t mention without spoiling the plot but she goes on exciting adventures with her pirate friend Jemmy trying to make Paris at better place in times of unrest.
Everyone is out to get one over on each other and you are never sure who is a good person and who is a baddie, although I was always hoping that Attica and Jemmy would get together and save the day.
This book has history, beautiful description of buildings such as The Palace of Versailles and you can feel the atmosphere of the era so it really is a beautiful book.
Everyone is out to get one over on each other and you are never sure who is a good person and who is a baddie, although I was always hoping that Attica and Jemmy would get together and save the day.
This book has history, beautiful description of buildings such as The Palace of Versailles and you can feel the atmosphere of the era so it really is a beautiful book.
August 30, 2020
I was looking forward to this book, after reading C.S. Quinn's debut 'The Bastille Spy' featuring English Spy Attica Morgan.
These are great adventure thrillers, and Morgan is currently lying low in Paris but quickly becomes caught up in catching a murderer. These books are just fun, great witty dialogue, old style swashbuckling adventures reminiscent of Errol Flynn with a dash of Bond's Q.
The writing is immersive and takes you back in time, and I really enjoyed the settings. The plot is complex enough to be fulfilling and I enjoyed the development of the story and the small chapter structure. You also get the dastardly villian you need to complete the adventure.
What really makes these books' fun is the relationship between Morgan and her pirate friend Jemmy, and the challenges they face defeating the bad guys.
I enjoyed it, do have a read for some adventurous escapism.
These are great adventure thrillers, and Morgan is currently lying low in Paris but quickly becomes caught up in catching a murderer. These books are just fun, great witty dialogue, old style swashbuckling adventures reminiscent of Errol Flynn with a dash of Bond's Q.
The writing is immersive and takes you back in time, and I really enjoyed the settings. The plot is complex enough to be fulfilling and I enjoyed the development of the story and the small chapter structure. You also get the dastardly villian you need to complete the adventure.
What really makes these books' fun is the relationship between Morgan and her pirate friend Jemmy, and the challenges they face defeating the bad guys.
I enjoyed it, do have a read for some adventurous escapism.
October 17, 2020
Attica Morgan works as a spy, the Bastille has fallen and she is trying to rescue nobles from Madame La Guillotine's blade.
Yet someone knows what she is doing and killing them before she can effect a rescue.
In the background a plan is also afoot to storm Versailles palace and kill Marie Antoinette.
Between trying to save nobles lives ahead of the blade or the murderer trying hard to thwart her plans and trying to rescue the queen Attica and her friend and sidekick Jemmy sure have their work cut out for them!
An exciting historical thriller, set against the background of the French Revolution with actual real life characters peopling the story.
Attica is great, feisty, brave and runs headlong into danger no matter the consequences.
Great fun and a brilliant read.
Definitely one for the historical thriller fans, will be looking out from more by this author in the future.
Yet someone knows what she is doing and killing them before she can effect a rescue.
In the background a plan is also afoot to storm Versailles palace and kill Marie Antoinette.
Between trying to save nobles lives ahead of the blade or the murderer trying hard to thwart her plans and trying to rescue the queen Attica and her friend and sidekick Jemmy sure have their work cut out for them!
An exciting historical thriller, set against the background of the French Revolution with actual real life characters peopling the story.
Attica is great, feisty, brave and runs headlong into danger no matter the consequences.
Great fun and a brilliant read.
Definitely one for the historical thriller fans, will be looking out from more by this author in the future.
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