Tilly Lebeck's Frankie and the Fed is a compelling addition to the ever-expanding world of sapphic romance, seamlessly blending elements of mystery, espionage, and romance into a narrative that is both thrilling and heartwarming. Set against the backdrop of a Natural History Museum, the novel explores the intricate dance between deception and truth, and the unexpected connections that can arise from seemingly impossible circumstances.

The book introduces us to Frankie Woolbridge, a star paleontologist with a penchant for outlandish wigs and an enigmatic personality that immediately captures the reader's attention. Frankie is a character who defies conventional norms, embodying a spirit that is both rebellious and endearing. Her suspicion of the new tour guide, Jamie Smith, sets the stage for a narrative filled with intrigue and suspense. Frankie’s determination to uncover Jamie's secrets is driven by a mix of curiosity and an unspoken attraction, which adds layers to her character and makes her journey all the more engaging.

Jamie Smith, on the other hand, is a character caught between duty and desire. Her role as an undercover agent tasked with investigating a smuggling operation at the museum is complicated by her growing feelings for Frankie. Jamie's internal conflict is palpable, and Lebeck does an excellent job of portraying her struggle to balance her professional obligations with her personal emotions. This duality in Jamie's character is one of the novel's strengths, as it adds depth to her persona and makes her relatable to readers who have ever found themselves torn between conflicting priorities.

The chemistry between Frankie and Jamie is electric, and Lebeck masterfully builds their relationship with a slow burn that keeps readers invested. The tension between them is palpable, and their interactions are charged with a mix of suspicion, attraction, and unspoken understanding. As their relationship evolves, it becomes clear that their connection is not just a plot device but a central theme of the novel. The romance is both cozy and thrilling, providing a refreshing take on the genre that will appeal to fans of dark, morally gray characters.

One of the standout aspects of Frankie and the Fed is its exploration of the theme of identity. Both Frankie and Jamie grapple with questions of who they are and who they want to be, and their journey towards self-discovery is as compelling as the mystery they are trying to solve. Lebeck uses their relationship as a lens through which to examine the complexities of identity, and the result is a narrative that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

The novel's setting in the Natural History Museum adds an additional layer of intrigue to the story. The museum, with its hidden corners and storied past, serves as a perfect backdrop for a tale of secrets and deception. Lebeck's attention to detail in describing the museum's exhibits and atmosphere enhances the sense of mystery and provides a vivid setting for the unfolding drama.

In terms of character development, Lebeck excels at creating multidimensional characters who are both flawed and relatable. Frankie and Jamie are not just archetypes of the rebellious scientist and the conflicted spy; they are fully realized individuals with their own hopes, fears, and desires. The supporting characters, though less developed, add depth to the story and help to flesh out the world of the Untamed Rascals Universe.

Comparatively, Frankie and the Fed shares thematic similarities with other works in the sapphic romance genre, such as Sarah Waters' Fingersmith and Malinda Lo's Last Night at the Telegraph Club. Like these novels, Lebeck's work explores themes of identity, deception, and forbidden love, but it does so with a unique voice and a modern sensibility that sets it apart. The novel's focus on morally gray characters and its blend of romance and thriller elements make it a standout in the genre.

Overall, Frankie and the Fed is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of sapphic romance and mystery alike. Tilly Lebeck has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of identity, its richly drawn characters, and its thrilling plot make it a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh take on the romance genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Untamed Rascals Universe or new to Lebeck's work, Frankie and the Fed is a novel that promises to delight and surprise in equal measure.