Title: Murder in the Dark
Author: Kerry Greenwood
First published September 1, 2006
312 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781741147094 (ISBN10: 1741147093)
Rating: 3.93
Overview
Phryne Fisher, the daring detective, receives an invitation to the grandest party of the year – the New Year’s masquerade ball at the illustrious Montague Manor. Despite her reservations, Phryne decides to attend the party.
As she arrives at the manor, she is thrown into a world of masked revelry, champagne, and intrigue. The mysterious host, Lord Montague, introduces Phryne to a cast of eccentric characters, including a famous magician, a flamboyant actress, and a dashing young archaeologist.
But the party takes a dark turn when a guest is found murdered. Phryne must use her wit and cunning to solve the crime before the killer strikes again.
As the clock ticks towards midnight, Phryne races against time to catch the culprit and save the party from disaster.
About the Author
Kerry Greenwood hails from the Melbourne suburb of Footscray, and after exploring different places, she eventually returned to live there. She earned a degree in English and Law from Melbourne University, and on April 1, 1982, she was admitted to the legal profession – a day that holds a special place in her heart.
Kerry is a multi-talented writer and has authored twenty novels, several plays, and edited and contributed to numerous anthologies. She also writes award-winning literature for children.
In 1996, she published a book of essays on female murderers titled “Things She Loves: Why Women Kill.”
Kerry’s Phryne Fisher series began in 1989 with “Cocaine Blues,” which was hugely successful. She has since written thirteen books in the series, with no signs of Miss Fisher retiring her pearl-handled pistol anytime soon.
Kerry is happy to keep writing as long as people continue to enjoy reading her stories.
Kerry has a diverse work history, which includes working as a folk singer, factory worker, director, producer, translator, costume-maker, cook, and currently as a solicitor. When she’s not writing, she works as a locum solicitor for the Victorian Legal Aid.
Kerry is also the proud curator of seven thousand books, three cats named Attila, Belladonna, and Ashe, and a computer called Apple that squeaks. She’s an excellent embroiderer, but knitting is not her forte.
In an attempt to conquer her fear of heights, Kerry has flown planes and jumped out of them with a parachute. Although she’s now terrified of jumping out of planes, she can climb ladders without fear.
It’s no surprise to find Kerry browsing through second-hand bookshops, which she can spot from blocks away.
When Kerry wants to unwind, she enjoys reading science fiction/fantasy and detective stories. She’s not married, has no children, and lives with a registered wizard.
If she’s not doing any of the above, she might be found staring blankly out of the window.
Editoral Review
Kerry Greenwood’s murder mystery, Murder in the Dark, is a thrilling addition to the genre. Set in 1920s Melbourne, the book follows the adventures of the Honorable Phryne Fisher, a wealthy socialite and private detective.
Greenwood’s writing is rich and atmospheric, evoking the glamour and excitement of the era while also exploring the darker side of society. The characters are vividly drawn, from Phryne’s plucky charm to the complex motivations of the suspects she must unravel.
The plot involves a series of murders that take place during a party game of Murder in the Dark. As Phryne investigates, she must navigate the web of secrets and betrayals that lie beneath the surface of high society.
The pacing is excellent, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. One of the strengths of the book is its historical accuracy.
Greenwood clearly did her research, and the book is filled with fascinating details about the time period, from the fashion to the politics. This adds depth and authenticity to the story, and also sheds light on important issues of the era such as class and gender.
However, there are a few areas where the book falls short. Some of the characters, particularly the suspects, feel underdeveloped and one-dimensional.
Additionally, the ending feels somewhat rushed and lacks the satisfying resolution that readers may be looking for. Overall, Murder in the Dark is a well-crafted and entertaining read that will appeal to fans of historical mysteries.
While it may not be perfect, it is a solid addition to the genre and a testament to Greenwood’s skill as a writer. Rating: 4/5
Recommended for: Fans of Agatha Christie, Dashiell Hammett, and other classic mystery writers who enjoy a touch of glamour and intrigue in their whodunits.
