A vibrant cast of quirky and unique characters come together to satisfy fans of Phryne Fisher Murder Mysteries.
Mystery, suspense and shady identities anchor this succinct but perfectly formed tale.
In 1930s Sydney, just streets away from from the Razor Gang wars, King’s Cross and the likes of Tilly Devine, lives Violet Kelly. Resident of La Maison de Fleurs run by Madame, Violet has all she needs after surviving life in a Catholic orphanage and she’s determined to carve out a prosperous future.
But danger emerges from the shadows when a dark, cruel enemy from Madame’s past threatens them all. It’s Violet who boldly steps forward to confront the tormentor Xiao and find a way to free the frightened, enslaved woman that he has in his grip. How far can Violet pursue this without endangering those she now calls family? Can Violet play safe within the underbelly rules or will he reckless abandon turn out to be what they all need?
From raucous parties to the Chinese market gardeners, Dickens-styled street urchins and odd circus performers, author Fiona Britton gives us heroes and camaraderie at a time when trust in the powers-of-the-day was elusive. The criminal fringes take dire matters into their own hands.
Using her sharp wit and resourceful resilience, Violet must expose and confront a dark, cruel enemy of Madame.
This novel sets itself up nicely for a series of fearless women and I certainly hope there will be more!
Allen and Unwin
ISBN 9781761067464