The 1920s in Australia come alive in this the first Phryne Fisher mystery. A flamboyant flapper with a taste for the good things in life whether it's couture dresses or fancy hotels, Phryne is unconventional, rich, beautiful and so very smart.
While at a party in London, Phryne captures a jewel thief and is soon asked by a couple to use her investigative skills to help their daughter. Phryne is a bit bored by the season so she jumps at the chance. She returns to her roots in Melbourne to uncover what is amiss with the daughter, specifically if her husband has anything to do with it.
Phryne arrives in Melbourne and in quick order starts to settle in at the Windsor Hotel. It's exciting how Phryne will form her entourage of friends and allies. She quickly befriends two cab drivers, Cec and Bert, and a woman physician. And, after helping a young woman exact revenge on a cheating lover, Phryne ends up with the competent and ever-grateful, Dot as her personal maid.
As Phryne is investigating Lydia's unusual illness, which she fears may be caused by poisoning, she also finds herself involved in a drug trade ring and trying to track an illegal abortionist. It sounds like a lot for a first-time sleuth but Phryne is able to solve each case with the help of her friends. Along the way, she'll also find time for some diversions with a handsome Russian dancer.
It's interesting that while I didn't find the mystery to be that difficult to solve, or even cared much about it, I was utterly intrigued by the setting. Greenwood packs a lot of details in this first book (the description of the clothes is fantastic) which is quite a feat given that the book isn't really that long. I'm very excited to have discovered the world of Phryne Fisher and can't wait to read more in the series.
Additional Resources:
Phryne Fisher Official Web Site
Added 01/07