Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction and Natalie Walter's for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.

Spies, Lies and Alibis is so good and unputdownable. I read this book in one sitting. Ms. Natalie's character development and world building is chefs kiss, I mean Michelin Star chefs kiss. Ben and Cybill's chemistry is perfect. The spice is a bit on the low side, but still good LOL. This book has just the right amount of suspense. In my opinion, this book is phenomenal, with the perfect blending of mystery/suspense and Romance.

I truly recommend this book to all y'all.

This book was AMAZING, I feel in love with Ben right away. This book is a low spice and spy thriller, which I have never read something like this before, but it was surprisingly one of my top favorite reads this month! Definitely pick this book up come release day! You won’t regret it!

What a terrific book. Great plot with fantastic characters that are believable. I couldn’t put this book down. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. This is my unbiased review.

“They were each other's first love. Now they might be each other's last hope.”
This book is a 5 star read. It is a fun spy thriller with a side of romance. The characters are fun and the plot engaging. As someone who loves spy novels and romances, this book hit the spot.
If you are a fan of Ally Carter books, you will love this book too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was a fantastic and suspenseful read from start to finish! The plot was well-paced and captivating with plenty of twists and turns. The characters were delightful and witty. This is definitely one I'll read again! I highly recommend this thrilling book. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.

This is a great breezy spy rom-com that’s pure fun

It’s light, witty, and gives you that Mr. & Mrs. Smith sparkle without the angst or the spice - this is G-rated!

Cybil is a total basketcase chaos-magnet

The cute banter was very much young adult tween vibes which is exactly what I wanted in a G-rated book

The spy stuff leans kind bonkers and silly but that worked for me.

This was a fast, cute, YA like-romance with adult characters with a second-chance twist and zero emotional heaviness, this is an easy win for a light read.

Lies, Spies and Alibis was the perfect, witty, fast-paced novel for the mood I was in. I've never read anything by Natalie Walters but after that wonderful hilarious book, I will be eagerly watching for her next book! The characters in this book had THE BEST banter and mild antagonism between them...The amount of ridiculous scenarios Cybil ended up in had me cackling. The more of the book I read, the more the poised Cybil I met in the early chapters was peeled away to reveal a character that, quite frankly, might be one of my favorites this year.

I was also in love with the setting. Between the Italian countryside and a quaint farmhouse, such a vivid picture was painted of the world of the characters.

Wonderful, wonderful book! Five stars!

I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

I flew through reading this book it was so good !
Anything with mystery , romance and spy Iam there !
I also love a good book with Natalie Walter’s name listed on the book.
If you pick this book up prepare to finish this in one sitting it’s that good
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for a chance in reading this gem

Spies, Lies, and Alibis was an absolute delight to read. The strong, capable female lead characters pulled me in right away, and I loved how the story blended a light espionage setting with what is mostly a romance. The main couple had amazing chemistry, and the closed door approach made their connection feel warm and genuine.

The pacing was fast and addictive, and I flew through the book without wanting to stop. I cannot wait to read more from this author and dive further into this genre. If you enjoy romance with smart female leads and a spy adventure, this book is a perfect choice.

This one was such a fun mix of action, suspense, and second-chance romance! I really liked the blend of tension, humor, and heart here. Cybil and Ben have great chemistry, and their history makes all the undercover chaos even juicier. It’s fast-paced but still has that low-spice, high-stakes romance feel that makes it perfect for readers who love spy thrillers without the explicit content. If you enjoy clever banter, secret missions, and a second-chance love story wrapped in danger, this one definitely delivers. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thanks to the author and to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.

Natalie Walters delivers a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller that kept me hooked from the very first page.
Cybil Langford, a diligent executive assistant, suddenly finds herself thrust into the dangerous role of a spy—gathering intel on her boss’s criminal dealings. Her mission quickly entangles her with ruthless crime boss Lorenzo Ramirez, whose deadly schemes put her life on the line.
Complicating matters further, Cybil’s childhood best friend—and first crush—Ben reappears under an alias. Posing as a financial advisor to criminals like Lorenzo, Ben is actually an undercover FBI agent walking a razor’s edge between loyalty and deception. His secret identity and hidden motives create tension and sparks as he struggles to protect Cybil without blowing his cover.
The chemistry between Cybil and Ben adds heart to the high-stakes action, while the twists and turns of espionage, betrayal, and danger kept me flipping pages late into the night. Walters crafts quick-thinking, creative characters and a plot full of surprises that never lets up.
This is a thrilling, romantic, and suspenseful ride that fans of spy fiction and romantic suspense will not want to miss.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

SPIES, LIES, and ALIBIS by NATALIE WALTERS is an esciting romantic thriller with interesting characters, witty dialogue and some laugh out loud moments!
Ben Bradley is an F.B.I agent working under cover as Craig Miller, a financial advisor who works in big stakes finance, in order to uncover crime boss, Lorenzo Ramirez’ criminal deeds and put him in jail forever.
Cybil Langford, whose handler is a woman called Athena, works for the very wealthy Mr Edwards, who is about to make a deal with Ramirez. It is her job to tell Athena whatever she finds out about his shady deals and the people he deals with.
Ben and Cybil were childhood friends who haven’t seen each other for a long time. When they meet up again things start to go horribly wrong, and, although theey are not sure whether to trust one anter or not, their old feelings come to the surface……..
I’m not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I really enjoyed this fascinating book and highly recommend it. It will literally keep you on your toes.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale Huse Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Natalie Walters nails it! Spies, Lies, and Alibis is all the fun of an Ally Carter novel without all the spice. The will-they-won’t-they romance thread keeps you turning the pages almost as much as the suspense… almost. With witty humor, action, and characters that draw you in from the start, this book quickly went from the first book I was going to finish in the new year to the last book I’ll read this year. Yes, it’s that good!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was such a good read! I enjoyed the characters and the plot, and the story was well written. I would definitely recommend it to others!

What a fun story! I loved the twists- it felt realistic (as realistic as a spy story can feel) and surprising. Cybil and Ben were great counterparts. They both brought their baggage into their lives and tried to adjust accordingly. It created a great balance point for when the misunderstanding from their teenage years was sorted. I liked the push and pull of each doubting the other and not knowing where true allegiances lied. It was true to form for a serious situation. The plot lines were fantastical and hilarious without being too corny or too much. I loved when Cybil found herself in oddball situations and tried to play it off, such as flying down the streets on the bike and clinging to the ledge outside of Ben’s room. The pacing was great, and the end scene was satisfying. For how much I was already enjoying the story, the ending came together bBetter than I could’ve imagined.

This is the novel I’ve been waiting to read. For those who grew up longing to be a Gallagher Girl or secretly wanting to star in Mr. and Mrs. Smith, this book is one you will inhale even as you wonder who can be trusted in this tale of betrayal and secrets. From a museum to Italy and back to Texas, this book takes readers on an international caper filled with danger, flirtation, and truth. Natalie Walters proves she is one of the top voices in romantic suspense with Spies, Lies & Alibis.

This was a fun, fast paced adventure story...I don't know that I would classify it as a romance... yes, the couple gets together in the end, but there is hardly anything in their story about them & getting together...less than 5%.

That being said, I really enjoyed & recommend the book. It is clean, fun, and keeps you coming back to find out what happens.... think James Bond meets Mr & Mrs Smith... with lots of LOL moments infused in between.

Love Ben's grandma...she is hilarious! And well played with Kentucky Fried. LOL All the supporting characters are great as well. A well written story.

Thanks to Thomas Nelson, Natalie Walters & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own, Review also posted on other sites such as goodreads & Bookbub.

This book was SO freaking cute I practically squealed. I loved it, period. Full stop. Throw some confetti.

Genre mash-ups can be… risky. Sometimes the author’s like, “I can write romance AND a whole other genre!” and then the romance is great but the mystery/plot/whatever is held together with duct tape and prayer.

But THIS book? Absolutely nailed it.

It’s equal parts second-chance romance and undercover spy shenanigans, and both sides are chef’s kiss. Nobody phoned anything in.

Our girl, Cybil, is feisty, smart, determined, and dealing with a mother major mom issues. And Ben? Peak swoony Bond-adjacent competence. Sexy situational awareness. Smoldering eye contact. You know the deal.

Watching them team up, banter, and fall back in love made my heart do tiny gymnastics.

Bottom line: adorable, action-packed, and a total blast. If you want your romance with some espionage and comedy sprinkled on top like a perfectly timed wink, dive in immediately.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis by new to me author Natalie Walters published by Thomas Nelson Fiction is a great read.
The story starts out rather tame only to evolve into something entirelly special. The book has everything I love in a good read.Intrigue, drama, angst, a wonderful love story and a hard earned hea.
Ben and Cybil know each other from the past, but when they meet again both have their own agenda, the exec assistant and the undercover agent don't have much in common anymore, but are there still embers under the ashes? Lets find out.

This was at times a scary read, but it was also a fun read.
Loved the bantering between the two main characters, they have know each other for years, but have just now reacquainted, under unusual circumstances!
The author gives us fun characters, Cybil aka Billy, and Ben aka Craig, but there is danger here, with men that won't think twice about taking a life, and we wonder whom will survive to the end.
You have to love Cybil, and how she takes things in her stride, from hitting carts to climbing buildings, and denying her love for things she craves!
I am so glad I had a chance to enjoy this book!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review!

This book was AMAZING, I feel in love with Ben right away.
This book is a 5 star read. It is a fun spy thriller with a side of romance.
I flew through reading this book it was so good !
If you are a fan of Ally Carter books, you will love this book too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

I absolutely loved it! FBI agent vs spy, then are childhood frenemies (kind of) that had and still have mutual crushes for each other? They need to be vary of the other’s motives but at the same time try to turn each other into assets. Add romantic tension to the mix (duh), some real danger, AND funny shenanigans and it’s simple perfection!
I read this book in 2 days and the best time with it!

My review will be up on Amazon on release day.

Thank you NetGalley for this arc! I absolutely loved it! I have never read anything by this author but I enjoyed her witty writing and the dry humor banter. Both Cybil and Ben were so adorable throughout the book. Parts were a little bit of a stretch in that they probably could have figured out earlier who the other was working for but I still loved it. It’s a very slow burn, enemies to lovers, childhood friends story.

The spy aspect added another level with action and adventure, especially in the last few chapters. It is a great clean and funny rom com! I was laughing out loud throughout the entire thing. Ben’s grandmother was also hilarious.

“Trust is earned—it's steady and proven, not just felt. So I've held it close, like armor. Treating it like precious currency, knowing that once it's lost, it's almost impossible to earn back.”

This was my first time reading a book by Natalie Walters and I was in for a surprise. I was expecting a creepy, suspenseful murder mystery--which might be why I'd held off reading her books for so long.

But Spies, Lies, and Alibis was romcom with a side of suspense, Wodehouse mixed with Conan Doyle, Lucy and Ricky paired with Nick and Nora. Funny yet endearing characters with a mixed-up plot that keeps you guessing.

This definitely won't be the last Natalie Walters book I read. I'm glad this title caught my eye on NetGalley!

OVERALL STAR RATING: 6/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5

Natalie Walters absolutely knocked this one out of the park! I’ve been a big fan of her writing for a while now, but this is without a doubt a new favorite. One thing I really appreciate in my books is good humor. If you follow Natalie’s social media, you’ll quickly find she has her own unique vibe, and you’ll be laughing as you scroll through her videos. This book was just oozing with her obvious quick wit, sass and humor. The banter and dialogue were top notch, and you’re given endless laugh out loud scenes that are going to be living rent free in my brain for quite a while. This story was such a gift and has a little bit of everything in it. A fantastic combination of high-stakes suspense and romance and characters that you will no doubt fall in love with. While there are a lot of funny moments, there’s also a layer of depth that was very much appreciated. I felt as though I was mourning the loss of these characters once I finished reading. Natalie, I’m going to need this to become an entire series! Please and thank you. LOL
Crime boss Lorenzo Ramirez unexpectedly reunites Ben and Cybil in the craziest of scenarios. Ben is undercover with the FBI and Cybil is doing investigative work of her own. The two have a complicated past, but deep down, their hearts still beat strongly for each other. As this story unfolds however, neither quite understands what the other is up to – who can be trusted!? Are they working for the force of good or holding hands and committing crimes alongside Ramirez and his cronies? Both Ben and Cybil struggle to keep their secrets as not to completely upend their missions, but curiosity might just be the death of them.

As it goes with most suspense novels, you must pick this one up and read for yourself. I can’t say much more without spoilers. Get ready for a very special adventure as you read and let me just say – nothing can prepare you for how awesome Ben’s grandmother (Gran) is! Buckle up because this book is a wild and incredible ride.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A perfect combination of fun, flirting and danger. This reads exactly like a movie with Knight & Day character vibes.
The characters are real and the chemistry and banter between the leads was very entertaining to read.

Loved reading this book. The suspense kept me reading past my bedtime many nights. Most of the book is about the spy missions but there is a cute romance tied in it as well. Easy to read. The characters are lovable and develop throughout the story. Highly recommend reading this book.

Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy.
Spies, Lies, and Alibis was an absolute delight—fast-paced, clever, and impossible to put down. Blending high-stakes espionage with sharp humor and swoony second-chance romance, this story hits the perfect balance between tension and heart. 🕵️‍♀️💥💖
Cybil and Ben’s dual undercover lives create nonstop intrigue, and their history adds an emotional layer that elevates the plot. The banter is excellent, the misunderstandings feel earned, and the slow unraveling of secrets kept me hooked from the first gala scene to the last reveal. 📖✨
What truly stood out was the tone: fun without being fluffy, thrilling without being overwhelming. The low-spice romance is sweet and satisfying, making this a great pick for readers who love emotional payoff alongside smart, twisty plotting. 💬🩶
Perfect for fans of Ally Carter and contemporary spy romances, this book is a binge-worthy, feel-good thriller with just the right amount of mischief. Highly recommended. 📚🌟

This was my first book by this author, and I absolutely loved it! Her writing style is packed with humor, wit, and charm. Who knew a spy mystery could deliver so many laugh-out-loud moments? I especially enjoyed that both MCs were undercover—giving major Mr. and Mrs. Smith vibes.

The second-chance romance and childhood friends elements were so well done, and the undercover run-ins were an absolute riot. Gran completely stole the show for me more than once—she’s hilarious, and I would gladly become an honorary member of Pistols and Pearls!

Pick up this book if you enjoy a witty spy mystery with plenty of laughs and a side of yearning romance.

Release date: May 19, 2026
Content: Clean-no language, kisses only.
Available formats upon release: ebook, paperback, and audio

I received an e-arc from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I devoured this book, oh my goodness. Natalie Walters is one of my favorite romantic suspense authors, so I was a little reserved going into this book, knowing it had a heavy dose of humor in it. But, I'm here to tell you, she NAILED it. I was kicking my feet and cackling all the way through this book. Ben and Billy (hehe) were so much fun to get to know, and I loved seeing them come together through mutual distrust/trust and finally team up together in the end.
Were there a few parts that seemed very exaggerated? Yes (Gran, I'm looking at you), but for me, I don't mind that. I thought it was a boatload of fun!

was really looking forward to this book because i haven’t read a spy romance in a long time and this sounded like so much fun! and yes - it delivered!! the writing is witty and sharp but also really funny. there are a bunch of scenes that i could totally imagine coming straight out of a movie!! and the plot overall is just really tense and well thought-out! Def worth 5 stars!!

Spies lies and alibis is a sneaky, intense, yearning-packed romance that will sweep you off your feet. The history and chemistry between the FMC and MMC ,Cybil and Ben, is beautiful. The banter is wonderful and it’s so easy to fall into and get lost in the action packed plot!

I had a blast reading this book and will absolutely be buying the physical copy when it comes out.

I just love a spy romance book! They’re always a perfect mix of suspense, mystery and romance and Spies, Lies, and Alibis had it all. This one was heavier on the plot than the romance but I didn’t mind at all! A bit of a slow start but once I got into it, it was hard to put the book down. I did wish there was a bit more yearning/pining and I think the dual POV takes away from that a bit. Overall, it was a very fun read. Cyril is amazing and I love her so much. I’m curious if there are going to be books for the side characters as well! This book is perfect for fans of Ally Carter.

I want to see this book as a movie! This was such a fun spy thriller novel. This book had it all - an intense plot point that continued to develop the further the story went on, wonderful characters, witty banter full of sarcasm and sass, a second chance romance (and cousin's best friend) trope, and some laugh out loud moments. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole cast of characters, the intricate plot and the fun dynamics. And life goals - I want to be like Ben's grandma when I grow up. The side characters in this book were just as dynamic as the main characters, in my opinion. The author and publisher are ones that I follow in the realm of Christian fiction, but the faith thread in this one was not at all prominent, but it was still squeaky clean, making it a great option if you enjoy clean reads and don't want the Christian content or read Christian fiction primarily to ensure your books are free of foul language and "adult situations". This one was a super fun ride that I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend! Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

This is such a fun story!! It was my first by Natalie Walters, but it won’t be my last! There were so many fun twists and surprises, and of course, a satisfying ending, both for the romance and the suspense. I loved that Ben and Cybil had a past together that they had to work through. It’s hard to say more without spoilers, so just definitely add this one to your TBR!

I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley and was not required to leave a review. This opinion is my own.

Engaging and entertaining romantic suspense. Always nice to read about a capable woman, even though she is a bit of a klutz. This is also a second-chance romance. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

This story was so fun! I loved the adorable mixups that the main characters encountered when they meet up again after not seeing each other for 10+ years.

📖 Bennett is not who he claims to be, and neither is Cybil. Let the games begin.

❤️ I loved this book from cover to cover.

Cybil is a covert asset who is anything but covert! She trips , falls and crashes at every turn. However, she is so much more than she appears. I absolutely loved her and rooted for her the entire story.

Bennett and Cybil have a rich backstory that added depth to the story.

The supporting characters are well written and added much to the story.

I read it in two days, I could not put it down. This is comedy gold. I laughed so much throughout this adventure. I couldn't love it more.

Swipe for some out of context quotes.

Many thanks to #Netgalley for the ARC.

Spies, Lies & Alibis is an exciting, suspenseful and action filled book with humour and mischief spread throughout. Cyril and Ben unexpectedly run into each other at a gala while each are undercover to take down ruthless criminals. Mischief and mayhem ensures. Years earlier, their opportunity for first love was lost due to fears and misunderstandings. Now, they are forced to work together to maintain their covers while not knowing each other’s true agenda and whether they can truly trust each other. Complications arise while they try to stay out of the sights of ruthless crime boss. Can they work together to protect their covers and their hearts? I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spies, Lies, and Alibis by Natalie Walters was an absolute delight from start to finish. I loved this book—loved the characters, loved the wit, loved the balance of suspense, humor, and romance. It was one of those stories that made me smile constantly and laugh out loud more than once.

Cybil and Ben are such a fun pairing. Their second-chance romance, layered with undercover identities and mutual suspicion, added both tension and charm. The banter was sharp, the chemistry was sweet, and I loved watching them navigate their complicated past while trying not to blow their covers in the present. The spy plot kept things moving at a great pace, with just the right amount of danger to raise the stakes without overshadowing the heart of the story.

One of my favorite unexpected highlights was the group of older ladies—absolutely charming and scene-stealing. I adored them and would happily join their group in a heartbeat. They added so much warmth and humor to the story.

This book had everything I wanted: witty dialogue, engaging suspense, genuine laughs, and a sweet, satisfying romance. I sincerely hope there’s a book two because I would read it immediately. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys lighthearted spy stories with heart and humor.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis was an absolute joy to read with laugh-out-loud moments. I think my favorite had to be the scene in Uncle Buddy’s kitchen.

Cybil Langford, an executive assistant, is payed to spy on her boss’s, Earl Edmond, criminal dealings. While on a mission she runs into her first crush, Ben Bradley, aka Craig Miller, who unbeknownst to Cybil is an undercover F.B.I. Agent. Cybil while incredibly smart, is what I would call a stumblebum. She is constantly finding her self in a mess somewhat of her own making but often by mistake. She is trying to outgrow Ben’s childhood perception of her. Charismatic Ben is somehow always there to witness Cybil’s blundering moments.

This book is a slow-burn, second chance romance, filled with wit and banter and unforgettable moments. Definitely pick it up if you love well written spy novels and laughing.

I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I did and remember, “Trust is optional. Results aren’t.”

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for a copy of this book!

Spies, Lies, and Alibis

Ben is an FBI agent undercover working on a case when he stumbles, literally, into his old childhood friend/crush, Cybil. Cybil is working for one of the men Ben is investigating. Is she still the girl he remembers? Can she trust him? Will they be able to get over past hurts and have their second chance?

This book had me busting out laughing a lot. The banter was amazingly witty. I want to be Ben’s grandma when I grow up. This is my kind of suspense, clean and funny while keeping me on the edge of my seat! 5 ⭐️ read

I was given this audiobook by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

Natalie Walters has created a sexy Mr. and Mrs. Smith in fast paced novel! I binged this and now I need more!

Covert Affairs meets Burn Notice.

A delightful spy romp filled with witty banter, close calls, and crackling chemistry. I was hooked on Natalie Walter’s Spies, Lies, and Alibis from the very first line.

Ben Bradley is undercover for the FBI and so close to completing his mission. After months of careful preparation, he’s finally within reach of justice for a fallen agent and ready to put a truly bad man away for good. Then Cybil Langford stumbles back into his life: the girl he crushed on as a teenager. To his dismay, she’s working for one of the very men he’s investigating.

Cybil Langford is determined to prove herself. As the personal assistant to a suspected “bad man,” she’s been recruited by a covert organization to use her access to gather intel, helping protect the unprotected in a way she wishes she could have protected her mom growing up. Ben reappearing was not part of the plan, and she definitely doesn’t welcome it after how things ended. Still, she can’t deny the pull he has on her.

I honestly can’t remember the last time I read something this fun and action-packed. Spies, Lies, and Alibis was hard to put down, and I loved the cast of well-meaning, slightly bumbling agents with big hearts, not always smooth execution, which made them feel real and genuinely endearing. This is my first Natalie Walter’s book, but it absolutely won’t be my last. I loved it!

If you love fast-paced spy hijinks, sharp banter, and swoony chemistry with a side of second-chance tension, this is the book for you. Highest recommendation—ALL the stars!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Natalie Walters and Thomas Nelson Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is definitely my favorite Natalie Walters book! It has a bit of mystery, intrigue, suspense, a dab of romance, and humor that had me rolling. Oh, and Gran, she might be a side character but she has a HUGE personality. Ben and Cybil's chemistry is amazing, but neither realize that they are both working the same case. They are both just trying to get the job done and keep their identities hidden while not getting themselves killed or their heart broken. Let's just say, Ben is VERY impressed with just how well Cybil can hold her own against the thugs that are out to get them. A definite must read!

Spies, Lies, and Alibis delivers a tightly woven romantic suspense novel where emotional vulnerability collides with high-stakes undercover operations. Blending second-chance romance with criminal intrigue, Walters crafts a story that is as much about trust and redemption as it is about dismantling a crime syndicate. The story is a character-driven romantic suspense novel that balances action with emotional introspection. I recommend this read for readers who enjoy undercover operations, second-chance romance, and morally complex choices tempered by hope.

If you want a light-hearted romantic suspense full of laughs, Spies, Lies, & Alibis is your book. I hope this turns into a book series.

I received an early copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Imagine how shocking it must be for a FBI spy to discover another spy bungle into his mission. Imagine now that it's the girl he has loved since childhood!! Chaos, danger, interference, and so many secrets reign over a superb story about two agencies unknowingly working in tandem and the reconnecting of two spies who continued hiding their true identities.
Fast paced and extremely detailed, every scene was like watching a well choreographed performance. The fun was how often one person frequently had no clue what the other was doing.. I liked the underlying tension of knowing that at any point the situation could blow up and loyalties could be exposed.
I confess I have enjoyed spy stories from other authors for years from Ian Fleming to Ally Carter. Now I am thrilled to add Natalie Walters to my list.
A special thank you to NetGalley, and Thomas Nelson Fiction for giving me the opportunity to read and review Spies, Lies, and Alibis.

I hadn’t realized how much I love espionage romance until I read this book. It was amazing!!! It was like Mission Impossible but with Natalie Walters relatable characters and fun humor.

Ben and Cybil haven’t seen each other in years, but when their jobs overlap in a dangerous way they have to discover if they can still trust each other.

Highlights:
Ben in the bookstore 😂
Gran is a kick!
Dancing 🥰
The Rooster!!!!

I love Cybil for being smart and brave. I love her sense of humor.

I love Ben for being so so charming. I love that he is protective but not to much.

“My sixth-grade teacher said there’s no such thing as a dumb question, but that’s not true. The only thing dumber than asking who’s going to protect her is pretending the answer isn’t me.”

This book was everything I wanted in a romcom and more. Exciting plot, childhood crush history, secret identities and missions, great characters, the best slow burn (and clean!) and actual laugh out loud humor … 5 stars for me the whole time! I think spy romcom might be my new favorite genre.

Let me just give a disclaimer though that I’m sure there were mission-based storylines that went over my head, but I didn’t even care because I was dopily loving it all regardless. I’m about to reread the ending though, because I feel like I sped through it to find out what happens but need to replay some details.

Anyway, thank you Natalie Waters for so much fun! I will absolutely be reading another one of your books… and probably buying this when it comes out so I can reread it.

❗️Content considerations: violence/mention of murder, criminal activity, low spice (kissing only), parental disorder and childhood poverty, no language!
💭 Age range: Older teen and up

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for an advanced copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest opinion. My honest opinion is that I loved it!

This book made me want to read more spy rom com novels as this was such a fun read! It was a bit difficult to keep up with the different characters but it didn't take away from the story. I would highly recommend!

This was a surprisingly thrilling romance! I wasn't expecting it to get so in the weeds about the financial crimes but honestly, I loved it!

I was able to get my hands on Natalie's newest book that is not releasing until May but oh my goodness I really enjoyed it! It gives you the James Bond vibe but the relationship between Ben and Cybil was like the movie Mr. & Mrs. Smith and I was all for it! The banter, tension, suspense and slow burn romance was done to perfection. What’s not to love about spies and undercover agents?

Now don’t get me wrong I do love the characters in this story and I cannot wait to read more from them but I would never be upset if Kekoa makes an appearance (I mean even a little cameo) in this series… just throwing it out there Natalie… 😉.

I saw a lot of you had this one in your 2026 hopefuls and I’m glad because I think you will really enjoy it!

I really enjoyed this one. I'm a relatively new reader to this author and I would read her stories again. This also isn't my normal genre and I'm glad I stepped out of it to read this. I was turning the pages to get all my questions answered. I think she adds enough realism to her stories to give it good believability. As well as intrigue while not overcomplicating the plot to make it tough to follow. I loved the opening line! I think the author gave the two main characers some great witty conversations. All thier scenes together were wonderful. Hello! 5 lb sack of flour!! That poor heroine, Cybil, was a walking comedy of errors! lol But the character Gran takes the cake. I loved what she added to the story. The ending was aww and sweet. There was great flow and resolution to the story. All the ingredients for an engaging and entertaining story.
Great for those who like: intrigue, slow burn, second chances, romcom, spy vs spy.
*Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

A perfect read for fans of Mr and Mrs Smith - If you're looking for a book to fill the void of Covert Affairs, Homeland etc. with a romantic touch than Natalie Walters' new book is one you definitely need to buy. Lighthearted humour, intrigue and spy craft make this an absolutely delightful read that I just had to finish in one sitting.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis is the first book I've read by Natalie Walters and it won't be my last!

Special Agent Ben Bradley has spent the last eighteen months working undercover in order to trap criminal mastermind Lorenzo Ramirez when his cover is nearly blown when his high school crush Cybil Langford. Cybil has orders from her own contact to take down her boss and find out how all the players, including Ben, fit into the illegal deal that is on the verge of going down. When both are sent on a trip to Italy, each sees the other as a potential asset to getting to the bottom of their respected cases. With old flames sparking and mistrust on both sides, what could possibly go wrong?

Spies, Lies, and Alibis started out with a bang and kept going until the last page. I loved how this book felt like a cross between a romcom and a suspense novel. Cybil was a firecracker with a reckless streak, while Ben was calm and put together. Whether they were bantering or trying to outsmart each other, they were dynamic. The case had me on the edge of my seat and I never knew what would happen next. As a side note, Ben's grandmother cracked me up so bad!

Anyone who loves opposites-attract and second-chance tropes will enjoy this novel. Thank you, Thomas Nelson, for providing this book for review through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I love Natalie Walters writing because she balances suspense, romance, and humor so perfectly in her books. This one was probably my favorite book by her yet. It has witty banter and intrigue. I did not want to put it down and was sad when it ended. I definitely recommend you give this one a read!

I loooveee this James Bond Wannabe story! From enemies to enemies (again) to lover, Cybil met again her childhood crush that once broke her heart before she could even confess. And she had forgotten about until she met Ben again in the enemy’s den? And why the heck Ben is not called ‘Ben’ but Cybil’s once ex boyfriend name?

The whole plot is fast paced in a way that it keeps you feeling excited and not bored until the end of the story. And the kind of humor presented in the story is just my style of comedy. Even the action part of the story is thrilling and exciting but wasn’t heavily complicated, perfect for a romance action genre. like you’re watching a clumsy version of James Bond. And quick spoiler; Ben called Cybil as Billy because BILly and cyBIL just make sense. Isn’t that cute?!! Way better than the typical nicknames Darling, Sweetie, Baby. Ben how original you are man.

I swear this story could not win me over without Grandma and Ruby’s presence. Don't get me wrong, the story is already amazing from spy action, comedy, romance but those two women make the story unforgettable in a humorous way. These two are just so cool and funny in their own way that overshadow Ben and Cybil. Okay, maybe that’s a little bit too much. If Natalie Walters would write about Ruby, I would definitely want to read it as soon as it comes out. And I would definitely want to explore other Natalie’s books because this author really knows how to write a really good action spy story. I vouch for her.

I absolutely loved this book. I laughed out loud multiple times. I truly loved how they still loved each other all those years later even though they tried to ignore it. I definitely will recommend this book to anyone. This is the perfect book if you’re looking for a good laugh. This is my first book by this author and will be looking forward to reading other books by her.

I enjoyed this suspense with lots of action and surprises. High school friends separated by a misunderstanding meet years later. Now spies, with lies and alibis, they don’t know which side the other is on. They are embroiled in an international anti-terrorism mission. Are they on opposite sides? Who can they trust? Inklings of faith, no bad language. It’s really very good.

'Spies, Lies, and Alibis' hooked me right away and ended up being an easy five-star read for me. This was my first book by Natalie Walters, and I’ll definitely be looking for more from her.

The story leans heavily into the spy plot, with the second-chance romance more in the background, but the balance worked well. It gives the romance space to build, with just enough pining and payoff, while still delivering a fast-paced adventure. It has a similar feel to an Ally Carter–style story, but with a cleaner tone, which I prefer.

Told through both Ben and Cybil’s perspectives, the story stays engaging as they navigate undercover work while hiding truths from nearly everyone around them, including each other. Even with all the deception required by their jobs, the story never feels overly dark, and the romance is easy to root for.

Special thanks to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for providing an advance review copy. I received this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis is exactly what the reading world needs right now, a no spice mystery rom-com?! Where there are crime bosses and high stakes but also snortable, laugh-out-loud moments. Loved the book so much, I hope there are more in this genre to come!

Oh my goodness! I absolutely loved this book! The characters had me from the beginning! She was delightful and I fell in LOVE with him! I mean come on… a spy, second chance romance ROMCOM! Brilliant! The one-liners had me texting my bestie throughout! I was loving it!

Thanks to NetGalley for this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own!

From the very first pages, I was completely hooked—and I mean GLUED to the story. I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know how the case would unfold, especially with both Ben and Cybil so deeply entangled in it (and in each other!). Every twist raised the stakes, every revelation pulled me in further, and that final, spy-story-worthy twist was literally Perfect!

In this story Natalie Walters masterfully blends suspense with real emotional depth and romance. And the characters are amazing! Cybil is a driven and guarded woman shaped by a difficult upbringing, having to care for a mother with ADHD, struggling with constant financial instability, and growing up without her father. Ben, on the other hand, is defined by his loyalty, quiet strength, and deep devotion to his delightfully chaotic grandmother (he’s constantly trying to keep her out of trouble! LOL! I loved her, by the way… can we please get a book about her next, Natalie?!), which makes him impossible not to love. Their lives collide again unexpectedly during a dangerous investigation full of secrets, lies, and hidden agendas… and as the case unfolds, old wounds resurface… along with their undeniable chemistry and feelings neither of them ever truly left behind.

The character arc is one of the strongest elements of the book. Both Ben and Cybil grow so much, individually and together. They’re flawed, but driven, strong, and incredibly human. Cybil especially stood out to me—a young woman who feels like she constantly has to prove she’s not “a mess” or “reckless,” that she’s worthy instead. That vulnerability makes her such a beautiful, real character. I loved them both because they felt like people who could step right off the page and stand beside you. Watching them confront their past, challenge their assumptions, and slowly learn to trust again was just… beautiful.

I have a soft spot for second-chance romance, especially when it involves childhood friends who grew up together, were torn apart by a misunderstanding, and then find their way back to each other and this book delivers that trope perfectly. Ben and Cybil embody it completely. The tension, the lingering hurt, the unspoken emotions… it all feels incredibly authentic. Even when doubt creeps in, they’re still drawn to each other like magnets, and that push-and-pull dynamic is so compelling.
The flashbacks to their childhood were some of my favorite moments—sweet, funny, and full of warmth. The pranks (I’m still laughing about the deranged uncle’s rooster in her bed!), the shared memories, and those early glimpses of something deeper (like when twelve-year-old Ben risks his life to retrieve her father’s ring) really highlight how strong their bond has always been. And when the truth behind the misunderstanding finally comes out, it hits HARD. It’s written with such emotional intensity that your heart breaks and heals at the same time. Truly beautiful.

Tropes: Second chance romance / Childhood friends to lovers / Forced proximity / Mutual distrust → rebuilding trust / Romantic suspense
Content warnings: Life-threatening situations / Parental neglect (a parent unable to properly care for their child).

The pacing is tight, the tension is constant, and the romance is deeply satisfying without ever overshadowing the suspense—it’s the perfect balance. There’s no spice, but so much emotion.

This was my first time reading Natalie Walters, but she has FIRMLY earned a place among my favorite authors. I’ll definitely be reading more from her.

A huge thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Ficyion and the author for the opportunity to read this book in advance. 

“Spies, Lies and Alibis” is set to be published on May 19, 2026, and I truly cannot recommend it enough!

If you want a romantic suspense book that will have you laughing out loud, this book is perfect for you!! It has been so long since I've read a book that has made me laugh out loud so much! I loved this book so much!!

Cybil Langford has spent years perfecting her professional façade as the executive assistant to a powerful real estate mogul, using her position to secretly gather intelligence on his criminal empire. But her latest mission puts her in the crosshairs of Lorenzo Ramirez, a ruthless crime boss with deadly intentions, and she’ll need every bit of cunning, charm, and nerve to stay alive.

Then Ben Bradley walks back into her life. Working deep undercover for the FBI as a high-profile financial advisor, Ben’s mission is to bring down Lorenzo from the inside. The last time he saw Cybil, she stole his heart. The last time she saw him, he was her infuriating first crush. Now, at a high-stakes gala where corruption, crime, and secrets collide, they must navigate their dangerous feelings while protecting their covers.

With a catastrophic deal on the line and enemies closing in, trust is a luxury neither can afford but love might be the risk that destroys them both.

Childhood crushes Cybil and Ben unexpectedly reunite on opposite sides of a shady business deal, each wondering how the other got wrapped up in a life of crime. Their respective roles in the high-stakes venture get complicated and compromised as they navigate feelings of distrust, new and old, jumbled with attraction. Cybil is the smart Stephanie Plum version of a spy as Ben’s appearance has disturbed her usual polished demeanor. And he has an uncanny knack for showing up every time something goes wrong. They didn't see this coming, and neither did their hearts. Once they start working together they give Mr. and Mrs. Smith vibes.

I absolutely loved this book—it's the perfect high-energy balance of a dynamic romcom and an action-packed spy thriller. The characters are strong and confident, and their witty, laugh-out-loud tension kept me hooked from the start. Plus, getting to "visit" Italy through the pages is my favorite thing, next to actual travel. I don't want to give too much away, but if you’re looking for a fun and entertaining read, this is it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis by Natalie Walters is a fast-paced, addictive blend of suspense, espionage, and romance that kept me hooked from beginning to end.

Cybil Langford is living a double life, balancing her role as an executive assistant with her covert efforts to bring down a dangerous criminal network. When her path collides with undercover FBI agent Ben Bradley—who also happens to be her first crush—the stakes become even higher, both professionally and personally.

What truly stood out to me was the dynamic between Cybil and Ben. Their banter and back-and-forth added so much charm and energy to the story, creating a perfect balance against the high-stakes tension of the plot. Their shared history and undeniable chemistry made their interactions feel authentic and engaging.

The mystery element was exceptionally well executed. The story maintained a strong sense of intrigue throughout, with twists that kept me guessing until the very last page. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the narrative shifted in a way that felt both surprising and satisfying.

Overall, this was a compelling and well-balanced read that seamlessly blended humor, suspense, and romance. Fans of character-driven spy novels with sharp dialogue and engaging twists will find plenty to love here.

⭐️ 5/5 🌶️ 0/5
First person POV, dual perspective - FMC: Cybil, MMC: Ben
Linear timeline
Setting: Dallas, TX

I loved this book! I love when genres mashup so beautifully like this one; It has the perfect balance of heist/caper, mystery, and romance.

I really enjoyed the character and relationship development, as well as the suspense, adventure, chemistry, and mystery. The dual perspective worked really well here and made the story so much more exciting to read.

Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction for an electronic version of this ARC for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

*5 Stars*

Copy kindly received via NetGalley for an honest review.

This was an intriguing read of what was going to happen next. Ben and Cybil were great characters as you had to try and work out if they would sort things out and get on the same page. I found the ending to be interesting. Would recommend this book.

I couldn’t put this book down. It was the perfect mix of intrigue, humor, and romance. Natalie Walters is one of my favorite authors and this was her best book yet.

This is a new to me author, but I really enjoyed the story, and I'm interested in reading more from her! The premise was fun, and I felt like it was an overall enjoyable read!

Natalie Walters has written such a fun, flirty, kickass spring time romance. I personally love the misunderstand or mis communication trope. I really enjoyed the reunited first love aspect and found the interactions so endearing. The book was fast paced and 'binge' worthy! The on page chemistry hit all the right spots and had me giggling out loud. The dual POV was really well crafted and I flew through this book fully immersed in their love story! I would recommend this book to my girlfriends and book club. I would 100% read anything else that Natalie puts out there!

What an absolute joy to read! The writer’s ability to consistently capture the voice and tone of the two main characters, and create a banter between them that was absolutely captivating, was fantastic. The storyline of two people who are working for covert organizations, but that actually know each other from childhood, was so interesting! I loved how the story evolved without focusing too much on their romantic feelings for each other, while keeping the bigger mystery to solve front and center. Publishing on May 19, 2026 - definitely add this to your summer reading list!

Thanks @netgalley and @thomasnelsonfiction for the ARC!

I loved it - it was fun and ridiculous and completely entertaining. The pacing was perfect, and it struck just the right balance between romantic tension and spycraft. Exactly the escapist read I needed.

A fun spy novel to get lost in!

I enjoyed reading this book! It was lighthearted and funny and kind of felt like a rom-com.
Though it is important to know that the romance storyline is definitely the B-Plot, while the Spies and the Lies are the A-Plot.

Such a fun premise with both characters being spies and obviously not being able to tell each other.
Who is the evil one? When will they find out?

Also them going to Europe for a couple of days, made it feel like holidays :D

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I really enjoyed the comical lean of this book. It made me laugh so hard and the main characters are so cute. This is literally incredible and a fun way to read a spy romance.

My review of Spies, Lies, and Alibis (fun title, by the way) comes down to three things.

First, this book might have fully converted me into a romance-hybrid reader, specifically the thriller-romance kind. I absolutely loved it. There is something about the blend of high-stakes tension and emotional payoff that just works, and this book makes a very strong case for why the genre deserves more attention.

Second, everything here feels perfectly calibrated. The pacing has the momentum of a thriller, but it never sacrifices the fun. There is banter, chemistry, suspense, and just enough emotional depth to keep you invested. The characters are compelling, the dialogue is sharp, and the writing is consistently engaging. For me, the baseline requirement for this genre is simple. It should be joyful to read, even amidst the tension. And this one delivers on that completely. It is genuinely fun without ever feeling lightweight.

Third, the audiobook elevates the entire experience. The narrators are a perfect fit, and that is not something I say lightly. This is one of those rare books where the narration matches the mood swings of the story so well, shifting seamlessly between tension, humour, and romance, that it enhances both the plot and the emotional beats.

Overall, this is one of those “everything just works” reads, with story, characters, pacing, and narration all coming together in a way that is incredibly satisfying.

A full review will be up on the WRB website on release day.

I've been a big Natalie Walters fan for a long time. She's one of my go-tos for suspense reads, and if you've ever caught her posts on social media, you'll know she's also hilarious. In her newest book, I think we definitely see more of that humor shine through... and I was absolutely here for it! Cybil and Ben won me over right from the very start. The last thing anyone expects when going undercover is to run into someone from your past, but that's exactly what happens with these two. Both are keeping secrets, and while we as readers get both POVs, these two have no idea what side the other is on, so that created a really fun dynamic. The romance was very much a slow burn, with the adventure taking front seat for much of the book. The banter and the flirty-ness was there throughout and kept me smiling, while the suspense kept me wondering how everything was going to play out. It felt like the perfect blend of high stakes spy novel with romcom and I loved every second.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis is a closed-door romantic suspense with kisses only and no language.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

I really didn't want to like this book as much as I did, but I did!!! It was really exciting and kept me entertained throughout. The writing was good, characters were relatable and plot was believable. Im a fan!!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Tropes:
🧡 Spies
🕵 Forced Proximity
🧡 Second Chance
🕵 Low spice

James Bond vibes meets Mr and Mrs Smith energy and I was absolutely all for it from page one.
Ben and Cybil have one of those dynamics that just works. The banter is sharp, the tension is thick and the slow burn romance is paced absolutely perfectly. Every interaction between them crackles and the push and pull of two people who are clearly meant for each other but are also deeply suspicious of each other made for such an addictive read.
The spy and undercover agent setting is so well executed. The suspense kept me guessing throughout and the plot moves at a pace that never lets you get too comfortable. There is always something happening and I loved that the action never overshadowed the romance. The two elements balanced each other out really well.
Cybil is a fantastic FMC. Capable, quick witted and genuinely fun to follow. And Ben is exactly the kind of MMC that slow burn romance was made for, you see glimpses of who he really is underneath the spy exterior and those moments are everything.
If you love action packed romance with genuine tension, enemies to lovers energy and a slow burn that actually pays off this is absolutely worth picking up. Four very happy stars from me
-Sash
@sash_wilcox

"Maybe trust is like love, not something you guard, but something you offer. Grounded not in certainty but in faith."

Oh, man. I have missed Natalie Walters and her books. This is slightly different from her previous romantic suspense books in that it is espionage and suspense with hefty dose of rom-com. I loved the banter and teasing between Cybil and Ben; I also loved their long history of childhood friendship and all of its complications. Cybil and Ben had amazing first person voices telling the story. Cybil was a bit of a mess but clever, sharp, and loyal to the core. Ben was kind, considerate, witty, smart and protective. Neither was your typical, polished, suave spy like James Bond but they progressed in their individual mission even if they fumbled through it. The romcom moments were absolutely hysterical and the levity was needed considering the scary villains they were both chasing. The fascinating financial and military intrigue embedded in the plot provided fast-paced suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed the secondary characters like Athena, Ruby who was Ben's FBI partner, and Ben's grandmother. I'm hoping for a sequel with either Ruby or Rex, Cybil's cousin and Ben's friend, or Joy, Cybil's best friend.

This book is perfect for you if you're looking for a witty Mr and Mrs Smith type of spy adventure fun. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Thomas Nelson via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

This is amazing. As a fan of Natalie Walter’s previous book ‘cornered’ I was so excited to read this. This was so fun and suspenseful. I just love a second chance romance and this was done so well.

🕵️‍♂️Super Cute Spy Novel🕴️💃

This was such a fun light-hearted RomCom/Suspense! (No Spice, YA appropriate!) Although there are certainly plenty of Bond references, it actually made me want to watch some old Scarecrow and Mrs. King episodes.

The plot includes lots of sneaking around in the dark (that will have the Mission Impossible theme playing in your head), perfect romantic tension, a beautifully executed trip to Italy involving mob bosses and chocolate cake, and plenty of details about the characters wardrobes (because, this is a spy novel after all).

🕴️The MMC FBI Agent Ben [freaking] Bradley has a more-loveable-than-annoying ego and an irresistible mischievous side.

💃 FMC Cybil is spi-cy, feisty, and determined to protect others from being duped the way her mother was after her father's death.

When Ben and Cybil (literally) collide while working opposite sides of the same crime, the sparks start and don't stop.

The romantic tension coupled with witty humor and sarcasm are what kept me reading page after page. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgalley for the ARC! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A hilarious romcom adventure! You don't want to miss this one! The audio book and dual narration is fantastic!

I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Language: 1
Age: Young Adult+
Genre: Romantic Suspense

I was smiling from start to finish. This book has everything: mystery, suspense, witty banter, forced proximity, a deranged chicken, and a delightfully unhinged grandma. Add in several scenes set in my beloved Italy, and I was completely sold. If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced vacation read with humor, tension, and a mob boss, this is the one.

I want a hard copy of this book because it’s riddled with powerful lines, like: “Control isn’t the same thing as security, and perfection doesn’t equal worth.” There’s a lot to unpack in that sentence alone. Walters blends comedy, emotional depth, and romance in a way that just works.

Natalie Walters, you have a new fan.

Thank you to Netgally, Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio and Natalie Walters for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Perfect blend of humor, action, and romance.

The romance is full of tension and chemistry, which is elevated by the history between the MCs. The action is page turning and the humor and witty zingers are well timed.

Granny and her cohorts deserve their own Pistols and Pearls spin-off!

*Thanks to Net Galley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC, and to Net Galley and Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio for the ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

From start to finish ‘Spies, Lies, and Alibis’ was perfection! I loved everything about it and didn’t want it to end. It was funny, suspenseful, and thoughtful. This is the first time I have read anything by this author, but I hope there is many more opportunities in the future. I would wholeheartedly recommend this book!

I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review our entire entirely my own.

Spies, Lies, & Alibis follows Cybil, who’s been secretly gathering intel on her powerful boss’s criminal network, and Ben, an undercover FBI agent targeting the same man—who also happens to be her childhood almost-love. When their paths cross again, they’re forced to work together while hiding their true identities and navigating a past that never really stayed in the past.

This was such a delight to read—I genuinely didn’t expect to enjoy it this much. The writing is sharp, funny, and full of that effortless sarcasm that makes the whole story feel so easy to binge. It balances humor, suspense, and emotional moments really well, and I was constantly entertained.

The banter between Cybil and Ben was everything! Witty, chaotic, and full of tension, and their chemistry was honestly so strong that I didn’t even mind that it was a slow burn with no spice. I’m a goner for second chance romances that that fact alone made it a five star read right off the bat. I was fully invested since the first chapter but I did get a little lost at times in the more detailed “catching the bad guy” plotline, but the character dynamics, that ending and overall vibe more than made up for it.

It gave me strong Finlay Donovan vibes with a touch of The Love Hypothesis (think Olive being her awesome, a little awkward self with emotional depth), and I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy humorous, suspenseful romance novels with great character chemistry! This is certainly not my last time reading a book by Natalie Walters! Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley.

This was such a fun read!
It had a little bit of everything in it.
I definitely give this book 10 out of 10.
The cover of the book caught my eye right away. I love the James Bond feel of the whole story.
The characters were very interesting. I love the undertone and the mystery of who they were. Ben was my favorite. I loved how genuinely he was torn between his job and protecting Cybil. It’s a definitely must read book if you love adventures, mystery, and humor.

This was my first book to read by Natalie Walters I was given an advanced audiobook version. This book was greatness. If you like Stphanie Plum books and Finlay Donovan make sure to add this to your TBR. This was a laugh out loud book wih an enemies to lovers thrown in. Cybill is going undercover to try to get information to take down an illegal crime network. This is where she runs into her previous childhood crush Ben and she can not figure out why he is there and in what capacity. The antics between these two was awesome. The narators did a great job. The setting was in Dallas, TX which is right in my back yard so it was fun to listen to all the locations of places I was familiar wih. I look forward to reading other books by Natalie Walters. Thank you to Net Galley for an advanced copy of this story.

Cute little spy story. Lighthearted and funny.

Two high school sweethearts that never were. Two undercover adults fighting their mutual attraction while trying to figure out if the person they’ve had feelings for is still the person they used to know

This book is such a fun, high stakes blend of espionage, romance, and emotional tension that keeps everything constantly moving 😍📖 It feels like a spy thriller wrapped around a second chance love story that never lets you fully relax

I loved Cybil so much 💼✨ She’s smart, composed, and operating in a world where every interaction could be dangerous. The fact that she’s secretly gathering intel while maintaining her polished executive assistant facade makes her feel incredibly sharp and capable

Ben adds the perfect undercover tension 🕶️🔥 He’s deep in FBI work, layered in aliases and deception, which makes every moment with Cybil feel like it’s balancing on the edge of exposure

Their history is what really elevates everything 💔 The fact that they were each other’s first love adds this emotional undercurrent to every suspicious glance and half truth, especially when neither of them knows what the other is really doing now

What I loved most is the constant push and pull between trust and survival 🖤 Every interaction feels like it could break their cover or their hearts, and that tension makes the romance feel just as dangerous as the mission

A fast paced, witty, and emotionally charged spy romance full of secrets, miscommunication, and unresolved feelings that refuse to stay buried 🕶️📚✨

FBI agent Ben Bradley AKA Chris Williams was posing as a financier handling accounts for Lorenzo Ramirez and Earl Edmonds. Both were crooks but Mr. Edmonds was trying to go straight. Also involved was Mr. Edmonds' son Sebastian. Ben was trying to gather enough evidence for a Rico charge against Ramirez. Sybil Halloway was Ben's first love and he never got over her. She was a spy and she was trying to bring down Ramirez as well. They inadvertently ran into each other at a gala. They were both trying to sneak into the library at the gala. The whole thing was foiled.

Katherine was Ben's boss and Athena was Cybil's. That is, Athena was Cybil's boss as a spy, and she worked for Mr. Edmonds. Eventually, Ben was able to talk to Sybil, and Katherine wanted to use her as an asset. It wasn't long before Katherine and Athena decided to have a joint venture to bring down Ramirez.

Ramirez was getting antsy, thinking he was working with a traitor. So Mr. Edmonds called Sybil to come to his house. When she got there, he told her that he would pay her a year's salary and that she should get away because Ramirez was suspicious. But she refused to go, not wanting to leave Edmonds to deal with it on his own. Ramirez called a meeting with Rook, his attorney, Mr. Edmonds and his son Sebastian, Ben and Sybil. He was trying to learn who the traitor was. Ramirez had a gun he was pointing at Sybil. Rook had a gun too, but he lost it in a scuffle and Sybil picked it up. While Ramirez was pointing his gun at Sybil she pointed her gun at Ben and accused him of being a traitor. She ended up shooting him.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and frankly, I wasn't able to put it down. It was fast paced and really held my attention. I found the characters to be believable and the storyline was easy to follow. All in all, it was a great book. I gave it five stars.

This book is the perfect trifecta of humor, romance, and action.

💋 Kisses only (level 1)
🚫 No profanity
⚔️ PG violence
❤️ Happy ending

The book started right in the middle of the spy action and never stopped, moving at a fast pace to a deeply satisfying ending. Actually, the ending was even better than I imagined.

This book is genuinely funny. Between the good one-liners, awkward moments, clever banter, and pranks- the humor was solid all the way through. And Ben’s gran is hilarious. She almost stole the show!

I enjoyed the romance quite a bit. The mutual pining was well-hidden behind layers of sarcasm, pranks, teasing, rivalry, and secret identities/spy secrets. And when it finally happened… 🫠

Expect:
❤️ Dual POV
❤️ Secret identities
❤️ Forced proximity
❤️ Second chance love
❤️ Pranks
❤️ Childhood nemesis
❤️ Italy 🇮🇹
❤️ Protective MMC
❤️ Mutual pining (hidden behind layers of sarcasm)

This book was a solid 10/10 in every way. And the audiobook was SO well done! I loved it!

I highly recommend this book for readers looking for a clean and wholesome romantic spy comedy with high stakes.

The suspense, the drama, the romance! This book does it all! I listened to the audiobook and loved the narration too! Cybil and Ben balanced each other out so well, both being spies and not knowing that the other is too was amazing. They faced bad guys and somehow still managed to protect each other. The action of this book was just fantastical enough to keep me hooked without going too far into being unrealistic. There were so many fun twists and turns along the way.

Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Natalie Walters for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I LOVED this story. I have been a fan of Natalie and her books since her debut “Living Lies” and this is truly her best yet!

This book has it all! Spies(who doesn’t love a good spy story?!?), romantic tension at its finest, hilarious moments, and a friends to more/second chance/enemies to lovers all wrapped up in the relationship between Ben & Cybil. (If you don’t see how all three of those tropes work together-read this story and you’ll understand!)

All that to say, this story is a MUST read!

I received an ARC of the book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

This was such a fun romcom mystery. The banter was top tier and grandma was a hilarious side character that added so much charm! Thoroughly enjoyed reading this 😍

I really enjoyed this fun adventure story! I laughed out loud multiple times, and was on the edge of my seat other times. I liked how Ben and Cybil would mention their past history as childhood friends (so many pranks mentioned, haha), and I loved them together as adults. I was cheering for them to be able to work everything out and to be together!

I read the second half in almost one sitting. Unfortunately I had a timer set so I could get everyone ready for a dentist appointment, and it went off during the climactic action scene. I was dying to get back to it!! The book was in the back of my mind for the next few hours, and I was so relieved when I could finally pick it up again and find out what happened. It was so good!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

ENGAGING & ENTERTAINING!

Natalie Walters has long been one of my go-to authors when I need a surefire fix of a romantic suspense novel. Her new release, Spies, Lies, & Alibis, seals the deal with carefully curated characters that are engaging and entertaining, a plot that is full of mischief, mayhem, malice, and murder, and, if that is not enough, Walters has thrown in a great mystery, intrigue, and major chemistry between the two main characters that enables this slow-burning romantic suspense to grow into a major flame! I highly recommend this novel!!

Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley provided me with a copy of this novel. The opinions expressed here are my own and are without influence.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis is exactly the kind of read that keeps you turning pages way past your bedtime. I love Natalie Walters' writing, and this one delivered on every front — the spy romance premise is so fun, the banter between Cybil and Ben crackles, and the tension of neither knowing the other's true agenda makes for such an entertaining slow burn. Fair warning though: there are a lot of characters to keep track of, and I'll be honest, I did not always manage to keep them all straight. But even with that, the story itself is such a blast that it never really slowed me down. Witty, action-packed, and full of heart. I cannot wait to read more from this author.

The title of the book says it all, and the fun cover is definitely on point. Natalie Walters is one of my favorite authors of suspense/mystery. This has plenty of suspense in it, but it also her signature wit which shines through in the characters and their shenanigans.

Cybil Langford has worked for a real estate mogul for quite some time. She has found herself in a place where she may be able to bring down a criminal network. She knows it will be dangerous, but where is the fun if not for the danger. What she does not expect is to see Ben Bradley. He was her first crush, but he also broke her heart. Only he is not answering to Ben these days, which intrigues her even more.

Ben Bradley is working undercover for the FBI. The shock on his face and her face when they saw each other had to be priceless. She knows he is up to something because he is not using his real name, and she cannot imagine him working for the people he is working for. And he wants to know why the girl he knew would be working for people she is working, knowing what he knows about them.

There is plenty of intrigue and mystery, but this book is so much more fun than anything else. I laughed so much a few times that I snorted. There was one scene where he purchased a shirt for her with a saying on it that she was not particularly fond of. I could immediately see that he loved pulling her chain in any way that he could do so. The cat banter was priceless as well. He infuriated her so much, but the chemistry was ever present, whether they wanted to admit it or not.

International intrigue, mob bosses, scary looking men, two delightful main characters and witty banter made this book charming and a much read for fans women's fiction with some mystery, a little romance and laughter. It was absolutely and totally delightful!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Okay THIS was such a fun time. Think:

✨ undercover missions

✨ second chance romance

✨ childhood crushes reunited

✨ secret identities

✨ high stakes crime rings

✨ nonstop witty banter

✨ and two people accidentally messing up each other’s operations while trying not to fall in love again
Yeah… I ate this UP.

Cybil and Ben have not seen each other since they were teenagers pulling ridiculous pranks and secretly crushing on each other and now suddenly they’re reconnecting while BOTH undercover trying to take down the same dangerous criminal network.

Because neither of them fully knows what the other is doing. Neither knows who they can trust. And every interaction feels like:
“Are you flirting with me or ruining my mission?”

The SPY storyline definitely takes center stage and I loved that. It felt like watching a romcom spy movie unfold in real time. The pacing was SO fun too. One minute I was laughing because of the banter and Ben’s hilarious grandmother, and the next minute I was stressed because someone’s cover was seconds from being blown.

And the AUDIOBOOK...SO GOOD.
🎧 Andrew Eiden and Dominique Salvacion absolutely brought these characters to life. The sarcasm, the tension, the humor, the softer emotional moments…

This book felt like:

🖤 Mr. & Mrs. Smith vibes

🖤 FBI undercover chaos

🖤 forced proximity

🖤 childhood friends to second chance romance

🖤 witty dialogue for DAYS

🖤 action + humor + heart

Honestly just such an entertaining read/listen from start to finish. It gave me suspense, laughs, romantic tension, and characters I genuinely enjoyed spending time with.

Spies, Lies, and Alibies by Natalie Walters is the romantic suspense you didn't know you needed!

The story is strong and fun, the characters are powerful and chaotic, and the chemistry is as obvious as the suspense.

From their first reconnected encounter through to final moments of the book, you can tell this is a ride to hold on tight for.

From second chance love, to miscommunication, to hidden identities to orced proximity and more - there are so many of your favorite tropes packed into this book.

Favorite Quotes
"Exhaustion weights on me. No on tells you how heavy the burden is to protect yourself" - Cybil

"There should be a manual for this part: So You've Just Fallen for a Spy - Now What?" - Cybil

This is the book I’ve been waiting for! I love suspense with a heaping side dish of wit. Spies Lies & Alibis by Natalie Walters is like a rom- com but for suspense fans. And I loved it!

Cybil Langford is on a secret mission and her ex, Ben Bradley might blow the doors wide open on her real identity. Except he’s also undercover for the FBI. The two dance around their past issues and their secret identities until old feelings rekindle. But can they shove aside past feelings to keep their missions on track? This book is fun but definitely gives thriller-spy vibes. I love the whole undercover scenario, where the hero and heroine have to keep up appearances without knowing what the other is up to–or who they work for. But don’t worry, there is plenty of danger for the suspense lovers.

I’m a big Natalie Walters fan. Her books have the danger, suspense, and thrills, but her humor shines through at the right times. She has perfected those perfectly timed comebacks and witty dialogue without being overdone. This book is my favorite pick for summer reading. Just sit back, relax on a beach somewhere and enjoy a fun, twisty, exciting read.

I received an ebook review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I devoured this read within 24 hours, and the audio made it so easy to just get immersed in this action packed story!

I honestly loved this story so much. I'll be the first to admit that I normally stay away from second/missed chances because I never feel that we can get the depth of their history enough to move on and believe in the love story again. But this book proved me wrong! The reconnection, while maybe unrealistic due to them being spies or with the FBI, felt real in what separated them and yet kept their feelings unresolved.

Cybil is very relatable even with the crazy missions she has put herself in, and Ben (or do I call him Craig?) gave just enough flirty vibes for things to be fun even when it would ultimately be stressful.

I don't want to really say too much about how they navigate the situation to see if they can trust each other in the middle of being on opposite sides of the mission. But I will say that if you are looking for a fun, no spice contemporary romance then pick this one up. Even if it is just to meet Gran, trust me. She must be encouraged at all costs.

I had read another of Natalie Walters book that was romantic suspense, but this I have to say I enjoyed Spies, Lies and Alibies so much more when she added comedy to the suspense! I think this will be the perfect beach read.
Childhood crushes meet back up when both are undercover working for the good guys, but they don't know who the other is working for. Cybil is just trying to help her mom pay off debt and Ben is CIA trying to bring down a criminal using his financial background. Along the way, the two make the readers laugh as they work on bringing the same people to justice. Add Ben's feisty grandma and it's a delightful read.
I hope to see more of this format from Walters in the future. It's the perfect book that's clean, funny and has suspense.
I received a complimentary copy of this book thanks to Thomas Nelson publishing and NetGalley, but all opinions are my own.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis, by Natalie Walters, is the story of undercover FBI agent Ben Bradley when he encounters the object of his teenage angst, Cybil Langford( of SNAP Agency), when their paths cross on a deep cover op. In fact, Ben is so deep cover that his name for the op is Craig Miller. Ironically, that is the name of Cybil’s high school boyfriend.

Craig is acting as a money man for crime boss Lorenzo Ramirez as Ramirez seeks to work with international developer Earl Edmond on an undisclosed project. The FBI is seeking to get Ramirez on RICO charges as well as the murder of a fellow undercover agent, Danny Morales.

Meanwhile, Cybil, although using her own name, is on a mission of her own. As executive assistant to Earl Edmond, she is privy to much of what is going on in his meetings with Ramirez, and it is her task to gain access to plan details and send to her handler, code name Athena.

Now that Ben and Cybil have seen each other in the enemy camps, trust is a factor but so is history. How will they sort this out and who are the good guys vs. the bad guys?

This is such a good story. It’s components of mystery, thriller, adventure, and romance are perfectly blended with a heaping tablespoon of humor. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!

I love a good spy story and this one is no exception! The plot was great, it had plenty of twists and turns and action scenes. I loved all of the mystery and how it was unveiled. This book is definitely very light on the romance, so don’t go into it expecting the most beautifully detailed love story. Definitely worth the read!

This book is a perfect example of how a romcom should be. Really fun characters, action, and a good dose of humor.

In this book, we follow Ben and Cybil, who both have the same goal: to take down Mr. Ramarez. Ben is from the FBI, Cybil is a spy. However, there is one tiny problem, they don't know this about each other AND they haven't seen each other in over 10 years. What could possibly go wrong?

Well... a lot!
Like getting feelings (again) for your childhood friend aka crush, kidnapping a FBI Agent (by accident), having a grandma who thinks she is a spy and FBI agent, working on the same case + a lot more!
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The dynamic between Ben and Cybil is fantastic and hilarious. While Ben is the joker, Cybil is all about sarcasm and irony. Perfect!!
Both are really fun characters, with good personalities and without too much drama and fuss. I also often end up in stitches, especially because of Ben. Because if I really have to choose between Cybil and Ben, I would still go for Ben🤭.

The great thing about this book is that it's not a 'boring' romcom that focuses purely on the relationship between the main characters. The romance is definitely present in this book, but it also revolves a lot around plot and action, which makes it you get drawn into this story. You also get a good look into the work of Cybil and Ben and the difficult choices that sometimes come with it. The ending of the book is fantastic and chaotic (in a good way) and everything ultimately comes together. The last sentence of the book is, for me, chef's kiss🤌🏻. I love references to other films and actors/actresses, and those can definitely be found in this book!

+ the title is perfect for this book! Its the key of the story in one sentence.

I don’t give many books 5 stars, but this is definitely one of them!

Tropes
🔦Cousin's best friend/ best friend cousin
💵Childhood friends + crushes
🔎2nd chance
🔐Secret Identity
🌶✖️ (No spice)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

You know those books you can’t put down that make you smile the entire time you’re reading? That was this book for me. Natalie Walters, where have you been all my life?! I absolutely loved this one and can’t wait to dive into her backlist.

I love spy movies. Mission Impossible is one of my favorite series, so naturally this book was right up my alley. This book had everything for me. Romance, banter, friendship, humor, suspense, secret missions, and real-life issues woven in so well. I loved Cybil and Ben! Even though they were highly trained in all things spy-related, they still felt so real, and I loved watching them grow and learn throughout the story. Plus, simply put, they were SO COOL.

And Ben, bravo. Strong, hunky, capable, but also vulnerable and gentle? We love to see it. Cybil also felt incredibly real to me, and I loved seeing her fight for the people she loves.

Also, Ben’s gran deserves her own book because she was an absolute hoot.

This was such a fun read and honestly one I really needed. So if you’re looking for a fun, romantic spy adventure, definitely pick this one up!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the gifted physical and ebook copies!

Spies, Lies and Alibis is easily my favorite Natalie Walters book that I’ve read so far. From the very first chapter, the story pulled me in with its blend of intrigue, humor, and charming chemistry. It felt like stepping into a lighthearted 007-style adventure, and I loved all of Ben’s subtle James Bond references sprinkled throughout the story.

The characters were an absolute highlight for me. Cybil was wonderfully spunky, full of sass, and impossible not to root for. Her banter with Ben made every scene entertaining, especially because neither of them was willing to let the other win. I absolutely adore romances where the characters are constantly trying to outwit and outmaneuver each other, and this book delivered that dynamic perfectly.

One of the things I appreciated most was how Walters created such strong chemistry between the characters while keeping the romance clean. The connection between Ben and Cybil felt genuine, fun, and full of tension without relying on explicit content. Combined with the many laugh-out-loud moments, it made this such an enjoyable read.

What makes this even more impressive is that I picked up the book knowing almost nothing about it—I chose it based solely on the title and the author. It turned out to be one of those delightful surprises that completely exceeded my expectations.

In fact, I enjoyed the story so much that within a week of finishing the book, I downloaded the audiobook so I could experience it again. The narrators did a fantastic job bringing the characters and humor to life.

If you enjoy romantic suspense with witty banter, clean romance, engaging characters, and a fun spy-movie vibe, Spies, Lies and Alibis is one I highly recommend.

Kissing,
Several tense moments where you are concerned they will be discovered

Spies, Lies, and Alibis by Natalie Walters — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book was pure adrenaline wrapped in banter, chemistry, and nonstop tension. I picked it up because I love second chance romance mixed with undercover missions, and it completely delivered. The combination of FBI secrets, criminal networks, and two former first loves crossing paths again made it impossible to put down. Cybil and Ben had such sharp chemistry from the start, and every scene between them felt charged with emotion and suspicion.

What worked best for me was how balanced the story felt. The romance was swoony without taking away from the suspense, and the humor kept the heavier moments from becoming too dark. I especially loved the constant uncertainty over who could trust whom because it kept the tension high the entire time. If you enjoy romantic suspense with undercover agents, high stakes action, and emotional second chance romance, this is absolutely worth picking up. Readers looking for a slower, quieter mystery may want something less action driven.

ook me a while to find my flow with this book (very likely was just me), but once I found its flow, it absolutely flew by!! The perfect balance of intrigue, excitement, and… dare I say cosiness? This book feels like all of your favorite police procedurals, action movies, with a generous dash of romcom. I loved it!! Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

I received this ARC from NetGalley and all opinions are my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The two main characters were wonderful and how they developed throughout the story was perfect. The grandma side character had me chuckling all throughout. The author did a good job of wrapping up the story while also leaving it open to continue with these characters. Looking forward to another one!

I have loved Natalie Walters since I binged her SNAP Agency series in 2023. Her books are some of my absolute favorites. When I saw she was releasing a new spy romance this year, I almost lost my mind. Spies, Lies, and Alibis did not disappoint!

This story pulled me in from the very beginning. Childhood friends unexpectedly find themselves in close proximity, undercover with different agencies, unaware of the other’s intentions and neither quite sure they can trust the other. The romantic tension and banter were top tier. Ben is absolutely charming, and his instinctive need to protect Cybil at all costs had me melting. Cybil is so relatable. Her inner dialogue and the situations she found herself in had me cracking up.

The action and suspense were perfectly balanced with the romance and humor, making this a story I could completely get lost in. It kept me guessing until the very end.

If you like high stakes adventures, delicious banter, slow burn romance, and spy novels with heart and humor, add this one to your TBR!

Includes:
Second Chance
Childhood Friends
First Loves
Forced Proximity
Hidden Agendas
Undercover Agents
Spy Romance
He Works For The FBI
She Works For The SNAP Agency
Mr. And Mrs. Smith vibes
Witty Banter
All The Tension
Laugh Out Loud Moments
Fragile Trust
Fast Paced
High Stakes
Mutual Pining
Dual POV
Closed Door
Zero Language

Favorites:
Craig Freaking Miller
The bike crash
The balcony rescue
He buys her a dress.
Kentucky Fried
Kidnapping an FBI agent
He gives her his tshirt.
Ben’s Gran + Pearls and Pistols
Kitchen encounters + flying eggs
He calls her Billy
Ben’s protectiveness
Cybil’s wit and sass

Thank you NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Natalie Walters for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Author: Natalie Walters
Stars: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Scoville Spice Scale 🫑

I love comedy and this was definitely a high stakes comedy of errors with a side order of Second Chance Romance.

Our FMC and MMC, Cybil Langford and Ben Bennett bump into each other at a reception in a Museum. Well acquainted since childhood, neither knows what the other is doing trying to plant a device in time for a private meeting. Out for the same thing, working at different angles, still fighting like two kids, can these two last long enough not to get the other killed?

Ok, this was a Master Class in Banter and Humor complete with a Festival Parade featuring a shirtless sculpted man in a cape, wolf mask and Cybil being dressed as the bride surrounded by decoy brides. This international story keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what's going to happen next, those feelings that are catching - are they going to fizzle or light up, who is Cybil working for, is Kentucky Fried going to live or commit Roostercide?🐓

Read This Book If You Love:

👀 Whose Pulling The Strings
🍝 A Trip To An Italian Villa (complete with lost luggage)
🎭 Unexpected Parades With A Wedding 👰🐺
🥋 She Can Fight For Herself
💞 Chance Second Romance
❣️He Falls First
🍑🍐🍌 Food War
🐓 Demon Rooster
👵 Grandma's Out Of Control

And now a word about our narrators, Andrew Eiden and Dominique Salvacion. 🎙 OutFREACKINGstanding. They both pulled off the serious and hysterical parts of their roles using a vast number of accents, vocal styles, and just downright panache. Bravo!

Thank you to the Author, NetGalley, and Thomas Nelson for a gift copy of both yhe Advanced Reader and Listener Copy in exchange for an honest review.

What a fun, laugh-out-loud story! I really enjoyed reading Ben’s point-of-view chapters more than Cybil’s. There were a few moments when Cybil’s character felt a bit too clumsy to be believable as a spy, which personally took me out of the story a little.

Overall, the plot kept me on the edge of my seat and made me want to keep reading, making this a great quick read. The romance is a slow burn, with former friends now forced into close proximity, which adds an enjoyable layer of tension.

When I saw Andrew Eiden listed as one of the narrators, I knew I had to pick up the audiobook and fully immerse myself in the story. Both Andrew Eiden and Dominique Salvacion did a wonderful job bringing the characters to life, making me feel like I was right there watching everything unfold.

** Thank you, NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio, and Natalie Walters, for an eARC audio copy of ’Spies, Lies, & Alibis’.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis by Natalie Walters is such a fun read. The witty banter between the characters kept me smiling throughout the story. With a touch of adventure thrown in, this romance was just what I needed to read right now. This story definitely kept me entertained!

I must give a thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this advanced copy.

I really enjoyed this book. This is the type of trope that I’m constantly chasing. It has romance, mystery, and comedy. The grandmother was hysterical and the fmc was very relatable in my opinion. If you like Finlay Donovan or Stephanie Plum you’ll love this. Definitely recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson fiction for the audio, physical and ebook copies.

This was SO fun! It turns out spy books are my absolute new favorite subgenre. Walters did such a great job of keeping me engaged with both characters stories and backstories. I just think they’re a blast and Ben is such a fun character. Cybil was so sweet and I was rooting for her from the very beginning. I loved how there was always something else to be revealed. The stakes were appropriately high and I really enjoyed the shenanigans that took place. I can’t wait to find more spy books and read other books by this author.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis by Natalie Walters was a fun read. This rom-com has romantic tension, suspense, action and was an all-around fun read.

Cybil Langford works as a spy for the SNAP agency. She hides behind a polished business facade as she works for her crime boss and gathers intel for SNAP.

Ben Bradley is working undercover for the FBI and gathering intel on his crime boss.

Neither Cybil nor Ben know the others real situation and they both suspect the other of having gone over to the dark side from when they met years before. They run into each other, literally, at a black tie affair reeking of crime and corruption. Originally, they knew each other as kids and Ben was Cybil's early crush until something went wrong and they parted ways. Little did Cybil know, but she was Ben's crush too. With everything going on, can they sort out their feelings for each other?

Spies, Lies, and Alibis was a fast-paced adventure. I have read all of Natalie Walters' books up until now and enjoyed them. This one was full of humor, romantic tension and adventure like her previous books. I enjoyed it from start to finish.

Spies, Lies and Alibis releases on May 19 from Thomas Nelson Fiction

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Thank you for the ARC. Unfortunately this was not for me, but I appreciate the opportunity and can appreciate it was well written.

I enjoyed reading Spies, Lies, and Alibis, a romcom spy novel set in Texas and Italy. Ben is a FBI agent working undercover as a financial advisor to infiltrate a criminal network and arrest a cartel crime boss who murdered a FBI agent. The story opens with Ben at an art museum fundraising gala in Dallas where he’s meeting the crime boss.

Cybil works as a personal assistant for a wealthy Dallas businessman and his son who have shady business connections. She was recruited by an agency to spy on her boss and she’s attending the fundraising gala to gather intel.

Ben and Cybil’s meet cute at the fundraising gala is unexpected, embarrassing, LOL funny and ridiculous. They pretend they’re strangers but can’t forget how their awkward teen relationship history doesn’t inspire them to trust each other.

Danger is lurking and the stakes are high. Ben is the protector hero who’s worried about Cybil but can’t risk trusting her. Cybil is fearless and trouble follows her. Their forced proximity during a brief business trip to Italy creates more complications and ridiculous situations.

I loved how the suspense plot kept me guessing and the LOL hilarious romcom calamities heightened the romantic tension. Ben and Cybil are on a wild ride and they’re forced to deal with their emotional baggage. The fabulous and satisfying story ending provided justice and the possibility for future stories connected to the quirky side characters.

Trust and abandonment issues, the consequences of lies, and forgiveness themes are explored in the story. I recommend Spies, Lies, and Alibis to romantic suspense readers who like clean and wholesome romcom spy novels with a twist on the enemies to love trope, second chances, danger, international intrigue and espionage.

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis by Natalie Walters is all kinds of fun, humor, and intrigue. I loved the chemistry between Cybil and Ben. Her sass and attempts to handle life when her job spirals out of control are endearing. While she is good at what she does, she does have a way of attracting trouble, and I love that it is Ben who is usually there to witness those moments. Despite their history, they are good together and bring a nice balance. One or the other is constantly one step ahead and when insights are shared at the end, it all makes perfect sense. The journey there though is full of intrigue, banter, competing spies and loads of fun chemistry. It is an enjoyable story that kept a smile on my face and made my heart happy.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

This was my first Natalie Walters book and I loved it! The perfect blend of sweet, sassy, and stabby. Such a sweet second chance at love story with a little bit of rivals to lovers thrown in there. I will definitely be thinking about this one for a while. It had me kicking my feet and gasping in surprise.

*I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher and all my opinions are my own.

This book was so funny, adorable, and fun to read that I couldn't stop reading it.

It kind of gave me a reading-fanfic-when-I-was-younger vibe, but I mean that in a good way. It felt nostalgic for some reason.

The whole spy/FBI agent dynamic was so interesting to see. Also, their missions being constantly intertwined while they suspected each other, yet fell in love all over again (or rather, confessed their already existing feelings), was heartwarming. The banter was fun to read too. I loved their dynamic and how smoothly their relationship developed.

The writing was great. I only had one pet peeve: the repetition of "Craig Freaking Miller" because it felt overdone. Apart from that, the writing was great.

Also, Brazil was mentioned and I was like, "mi gente latino 🥳🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷"

I loved this book and I definitely recommend it.

Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Natalie Walters for this ARC.

This was a great clean spy romcom! With lots of action, mystery suspense, and laughs. I loved the chemistry between these two with a James Bond feel. This book is perfect for readers of Jenessa Fayeth and Meg Easton spy romcoms! This is definitely a must read!

I also listened to the audio book and the female/male dual narration was perfectly done. The sound was good quality, the volume between the two narrators were similar and the speed was consitant throughout.

There are no swears, mild mentions of alcohol, and level 1 descriptive kisses only.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from @Netgalley and @thomasnelson. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I finished this book in one day—it’s that bingeable. Spies, Lies, and Alibis is the perfect mix of romantic suspense and rom-com chaos, with high-stakes undercover missions and nonstop twists.

Cybil and Ben are everything. The witty one-liners and their banter had me giggling and kicking my feet the entire time. Their chemistry is so good, and the tension of not fully trusting each other while being forced to work close together? Absolutely addictive.

This book gives major Mr. & Mrs. Smith energy—two people with complicated history, secret agendas, and undeniable chemistry, circling each other while everything around them is on the verge of exploding. Add in chaotic stakeouts, ridiculous action scenes, and moments where everything goes hilariously wrong, and it’s just pure fun.

Even the side characters (especially Ben’s grandma) bring so much personality and humor to the story.

James Bond meets Mr. & Mrs. Smith = perfection.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, funny, tension-filled spy romance with chaotic energy and heart, this is definitely one to pick up.

Thank you to NetGalley, Natalie Walters and Thomas Nelson for the ARC!

Thank you to Net Galley, Publisher - Thomas Nelson Fiction - and the author, Ms. Natalie Walters, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I absolutely flew through Spies, Lies, and Alibis - it’s such a fun yet deeply intriguing spy thriller. I finished it in two days, and honestly, the only reason it took that long is because I started late at night and had to sleep for work. Otherwise, this would have easily been a one-day read - that’s how engaging and witty it was!

The story is fantastic. I loved how the characters go undercover in different directions, each working their own angles to uncover the truth. The execution felt clever and engaging throughout. What really stood out to me was the blend of classic spy elements with a modern digital angle - cyber surveillance, digital trails, hacking, and cybersecurity all play a key role, making the story feel fresh and relevant.

The characters, especially Cybil Langford and Bennett Bradley, are an absolute highlight. Their witty banter, internal monologues, and interactions with fellow agents add so much charm and humor to the story. The tone strikes a perfect balance - it’s thrilling, but also lighthearted and genuinely funny.

Some scenes were just unforgettable. Cybil attempting to ride a motorcycle, failing to find the brake, and crashing straight into a vegetable cart - ending up with lettuce in her hair and tomatoes in her clothes - was absolute chaos. And her line about just needing cheese to complete the “meal”? Perfect.

Then there’s the stakeout scene where she gets caught hanging off the ledge outside Ben’s (or rather, Craig Miller’s) hotel room - already chaotic, but made even better by their banter in that moment.

And the chaos peaks at Cybil’s cousin Rex’s guest house, where the flour-bag and fruits fight sequence is completely unhinged in the best way - fast-paced, ridiculous, and so entertaining that I couldn’t stop grinning.

Even the earlier moments from the book shine just as brightly. The museum gala mishap at the beginning - when Cybil’s dress gets badly ripped because Ben accidentally steps on it - is awkward in the funniest way. Add to that her slipping in a restroom and ending up with her feet soaked in dirty toilet water… subtle yet pure comedic gold. And Seth getting stuck mid-operation with a stomach bug fits perfectly into this chain of hilariously unfortunate events.

Even the side characters steal the show - especially Ben’s grandma, with her antiques, her club (pistols and pearls!), and her delightfully chaotic energy. As Ben perfectly puts it, “Some grandmothers crochet; mine likes to do unlicensed stakeouts.” That line alone captures the absurd, hilarious charm of these moments.

What makes all of this work so well is the contrast - these are highly skilled, “genius” FBI agents/spies, yet they’re also clumsy, wildly witty, sometimes genuinely scared, and occasionally downright unhinged in the funniest way. That balance makes them feel incredibly human, real, and deeply endearing.

Overall, this book feels like watching a clever, funny spy movie with just the right touch of romantic tension. If you’re looking for a lighthearted thriller packed with humor, smart plotting, and memorable (and delightfully chaotic) characters, this is definitely one to pick up.

I genuinely enjoyed reading this and did not want to put it down. All the characters were fun and worked well together. I enjoyed the two separate casts and how they came together in the end. The the plot was exciting but realistic enough to not throw me off. There wasn’t a lot of romance but what we did see was a super sweet second chance. I loved Ben and Cybil together. And as a huge spy book lover, I truly appreciated how spy-centric this was!

Snark, spies, and swoons—pure audiobook gold!

This one had me laughing out loud from the very start! This romantic suspense is packed with sarcastic banter, lightning-fast pacing, and enemies-to-lovers chemistry that crackles on every page. The spy plot twists and turns without ever feeling forced, blending high-stakes action with genuine heart.

That sarcastic banter between the MCs? Is the heartbeat—pure gold in every scene, driving all the humor, tension, and chemistry. Walters nails the balance—clever suspense that keeps you guessing, plus hilarious mishaps and witty one-liners that had me snorting at the most unexpected moments. It's the kind of book where the characters feel like real (slightly chaotic) friends you'd want to grab lunch with. Honorable mention: Kentucky Fried chicken—iconic!

Narration brilliance : Andrew Eiden's deadpan delivery makes every sarcastic quip perfection, while Dominique Salvacion brings sparkling energy and warmth to the romance. Their dual performance turns this into an absolute must-listen—like watching a romcom unfold live! I would totally recommend this as an immersive read!!

Perfect for fans of snarky romantic suspense who want laughs with their thrills. Highly recommend! Was my first ever Natalie Walters book and definitely not going to be my last!!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio and the author for gifting me this ALC. As always, this review are my candid thoughts and opinions.

This is a cute thriller romance book.
Not spicy.
The book focuses more on the plot rather than spicy scenes.
I absolutely loved how it feels very much like I’m watching a 90s comedy thriller romance.
This book has a little bit of everything and I really loved it.

What a ride! From one scene to the next, this story takes you on an adventure worthy of James Bond! Duel point of views run through the storyline, detailing each side of the plan to catch the bad guy. It kept my attention the entire time. From Dallas, Tx to Italy and back, this story keeps you guessing on who’s working for whom. 10/10 highly recommended! I received and advance copy from NetGalley for my honest review.

I absolutely LOVED this twisty spy book, and the undercurrent of friends to maybe more to enemies to lovers was *chef's kiss*.

It gave the vibes of Finlay Donovan, except this book is 100% clean (no language, only kisses, some fight scenes) and involves spies. 😏

I am going to have to read more from Natalie Walters for sure!

***

Thank you to the Thomas Nelson Publishing and author for an advanced copy of this book. While I received a complimentary copy, all opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

*Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for this ARC of the audiobook (and ebook); the review is my own.*

I'm really glad that I was able to get the audiobook from NetGalley since the ebook kept making my Kindle crash. Honestly, though, the audiobook was a delight! Since I received ARCs of both the ebook and the audiobook, though, I'm posting this review for both. This book was exactly what I was in the mood to listen to. It was fun and humorous with some danger and an adorable second-chance romance between childhood friends.

I loved Ben and Cybil (both in their late 20s) and enjoyed watching them rediscover each other and their feelings in the middle of a criminal investigation where neither expected to find the other. Certain members of the supporting cast also added a good amount of entertainment. Ben’s grandma and her retirement Pearls and Pistols club cracked me up. She reminded me of a mix between almost any Betty White character and Michael’s mom in Burn Notice (minus the annoying parts of the latter’s personality). Other side characters I really liked were Uncle Buddy, Rex, Seth, and even Kentucky Fried.

Although this book isn’t geared towards a young adult audience, I would feel absolutely no qualms about handing this to my daughter, who loves books like this, because there’s nothing in it that I wouldn’t want her to read. If you enjoy Janessa Fayeth, you’ll like this book.

Language: None
Violence: Mlid
Alcohol & drugs: A little social drinking
Physical Intimacy: Kissing
LGBT: None

Spies, Lies, and Alibis would make a really fun movie. That is what I thought and felt the entire time I was reading this book. I could just see it all playing out in my mind and appreciated the narrators of the audiobook who helped create that feeling for me by capturing the suspense and humor the author infused into this story.

Cybil is working her own version of undercover when she runs across her first love, Ben, in the most unexpected place. Only Ben claims to be Craig and suddenly there are a lot of moving parts and people she did not plan for.

Ben is deep undercover for the FBI with one shot to catch their guy when Cybil, the girl he has always wondered about, seems to find herself in the cross hairs. Between Cybil and his eccentric grandma (whose character was hilarious), Ben has his hands full as he tries to make sure this mission is a success.

I loved watching these two navigate their missions and their feelings. It was fun as a reader to know their roles—thank you dual POV—while simultaneously wondering how long it would take them to piece it all together. It played well into the humor and action of the book, how they didn’t know whether they could trust one another, and I loved that moment when they started to be a team.

It was also neat how Walters brought in her SNAP agency series to this new one as sort of a little nugget.
With some second chance romance action going on, a bad guy on the loose, and humor lacing the suspense all along the way, this was a really fun romantic suspense novel or should I say suspenseful romcom and I recommend it.

Thank you Uplit Reads, Natalie Walters, Thomas Nelson, and Netgalley for my gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I enjoyed multiple formats of this book and I recommend them.

I like spy stuff and this has all the tension of a James Bond Suspense flick with a touch of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, a rom-com underpinning and a side of The Godfather.
Cybil is a heroine who is a bit out of her depth but has the chops when she needs it. Ben is an irresistible hero who personifies the good guy.
“Cybil is one part chaos, two parts pride, and I have always been just dumb enough to probe a hornet’s nest.”
“Desperate times call for Bond level improvisation-minus the gadgets, martini and British accent.”
A quirky character was grandma in a nursing home who was brave enough to call her FBI grandson to bail her our of jail!
So much fun chasing the bad guys. I want the next book now! This might be my favorite book by this author.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. All,opinions are mine alone.*

‘I’ll play along. Because I need this paycheck. And maybe—just maybe—I need to know who Ben Bradley really is and why after all these years, and against every ounce of logic, my heart is doing that ridiculous, traitorous skip when he’s near me.’

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own, and a review was not required.

Cybil Langford has spent years working undercover in a polished corporate world tied to a dangerous criminal network. Ben Bradley is deep undercover with the FBI, infiltrating the same world from a different angle. Neither expects to run into each other again—especially not at a high-stakes gala where secrets, lies, and danger collide.

But the biggest complication? They were each other’s first love…and maybe their last chance at something real.

I have been following Natalie Walters for YEARS, and am highly entertained by her humor and this book still blew me away with the banter. The blend of romantic suspense, humor, danger, and emotional tension is practically perfect in every way.

I carried this book everywhere with me—there was no putting it down. It’s fast-paced, twisty, hilarious, and completely addictive. Think just the right mix of James Bond chaos and Austin Powers humor, but make it clean, swoony, and full of heart.

I laughed, I held my breath, I highlighted SO many sections (seriously—Teaser Tuesday material for months). The chemistry, the suspense, the misdirection…all of it works.

And can we talk about the characters? I am fully emotionally attached. Especially the granny. I need a whole spin-off series immediately, thank you very much.

This is one of those rare books that just WORKS—fun, smart, tense, romantic, and impossible to put down. It’s officially landing on my top favorites list for the year.

If you love romantic suspense with banter, spies, chaos, and heart—you absolutely need this one.

Available NOW!

Happy Reading 📚

Content/Triggers: ADHD representation in side character, mild violence, mentions of weapons and spy accessories, romance—kisses only.

Spies, Lies, and Alibis is a fantastic romantic comedy spy adventure with danger, suspense, hilarity, and second-chance love! With main characters and childhood friends Cybil and Ben falling back in love while caught up in an undercover mission to stop a criminal enterprise, the emotions run high and danger lurks, and I loved every single minute! The entire suspenseful mission was complex enough to be unpredictable but written well enough to easily follow it. And dual POV from both hero and heroine? Always a great choice! This book also had me snort-laughing many times— but also holding my breath through the suspense! This is a great read for someone who loves a romcom with some action to the plot (like me), and I can’t wait to read more like it from Natalie Walters!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own, I really did love it!

Spies, Lies, and Alibis, by Natalie Walters, is a fun, hilarious, edge of your seat suspense book. I loved Ben and Cybil. This book, and the characters, made me laugh out loud, especially Gran. I highly recommend this book!

I was provided a copy of the book from the author/publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

Wow! Nonstop action, witty banter, laugh-out-loud humor, an intriguing espionage plot, & characters you can’t help but love all with a James Bond vibe that made this impossible to put down! I’ve been an avid Natalie Walters fan for years, & Spies, Lies, & Alibis is a new favorite. I adored this book! From the clever plot & spies unknowingly working on the same mission to the simmering romantic tension of a second-chance romance, this story grabbed hold & didn’t let go.

FBI agent Ben Bradley was such a dream! He’s got the good looks & irresistible charm of James Bond paired with the humorously clean version of an Austin Powers or Maxwell Smart. Posing as a financial analyst for the ultra-wealthy with a talent for laundering money, Ben’s determined to bring down international crime boss Lorenzo Ramirez. He’s closing in when a former love unexpectedly appears at a charity gala & seems to be working for the enemy.

Cybil Langford has worked hard to leave her past behind. As the personal assistant to a wealthy real estate mogul, she has access to a shady network that could help her take down Lorenzo Ramirez. But when she discovers the childhood love who broke her heart is seemingly on the wrong side, she’ll need all her wits to keep her mission & her heart under control.

I loved this story so much! Ben & Cybil are working toward the same goal from different directions, & I had so much fun watching their Mr. & Mrs. Smith-style dynamic unfold. Cybil is adorably clumsy, Ben is always there to rescue her, & their witty banter, sizzling chemistry, & endless one-liners kept me grinning throughout. Loved seeing them finally resolve past hurts & find love again.

Their exciting missions take them from Texas to Italy & back again & I enjoyed all the crazy calamity that ensues. The Italian mafia feel, espionage elements, clever twists, & tie-ins to the author’s previous series kept me eagerly turning the pages. Also adored Ben’s granny who’s a spitfire as well as other friends, family, & coworkers!

It’s a delightful start to a new series & I can’t wait for more. Highly recommend to romantic suspense romcom fans. I received an advanced copy with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.

This was my first Natalie Walter's book, and it certainly wont be my last! I dont think I laughed so much while reading a book!
Cybil is a spy, trying to make sure no one gets hurt ever again. Shes undercover as an executive assistant for a big real estate mogul. And while on her mission she crosses paths with her childhood friend and crush, who is now a FBI agent. But she doesnt know that! She thinks he part of the bad guys team.
This book is hilarious as both Ben and Cybil navigate through their missions as they aren't sure if the other is on the right team. Also, Cybil and her clumsiness while trying to be a spy had me giggling so much. Ben is seriously the sweetest. I just love how he was such a good guy and supporting Cybil and loving on her!

I cant recommend enough. I received this book for review purposes but all thoughts and opinions are my own!

Gave major Mr. and Mrs. Smith vibes probably just because they are both spies but it was so fun none the less. I absolutely love a second chance romance/ childhood friends to maybe enemies to lovers. I just eat it up every time and this was engaging and suspenseful enough that I could not stop reading. I also loved that we got a little taste of Ben and Cybil's life outside of spying. Ben grandma was such a fun minor characters that added some lightheartedness in the midst of the suspense!

Undercover for the FBI as a financial advisor, Ben's attempt to access his target's computer is thwarted by a shadowy figure who seems to be trying to access the same locked room. That failure was bad enough, but when he discovers that the figure belonged to none other than Cybil, his first love but who's now working for a man nearly as suspect as his main target, he's left to question which side she's on - and just how much danger she's really in. She might have failed to meet him years ago when they agreed, but he can't deny that he still cares. Cybil is horrified to learn that Ben is working for a man she knows to be crooked, and has no idea what to believe about him. She dare not let down her guard with him - but she also almost can't help it. They can only succeed in their respective aims by trusting each other, but trust may have fatal consequences...

Hilarious but also with a good dose of suspense (I mean, spies!?), this book does an amazing job of balancing suspense as they work to bring down a crook, romance as childhood best friends reconnect and get a second chance for more, and humour as things don't always work quite right. I love the way that the serious stuff stays serious but there's still plenty of humour fitted in appropriately, so that it builds on the serious stuff rather than pulling it down. These two have a lot of history, good and bad, but also a lot going on at the moment that means they really can't trust each other - and yet they still want to, and also want to protect each other. It's a difficult dynamic to manage, but done really well. All in all, this was the first book I've read by the author but I definitely want more. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.