‘Violet Kelly and the Jade Owl’ by Fiona Britton
In Sydney 1930, just streets away from the wars of razor gangs, King’s Cross and the Tilly Devine enterprises lives Violet Kelly. Residing at La Maison de Fleurs owned and 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. But how far can Violet pursue this without endangering those she now calls family? Can Violet play safe within the Underbelly rules or will her reckless abandon turn out to be what they all need?
A vibrant cast of quirky and unique characters come together to satisfy fans of Phryne Fisher. Mystery, suspense and shadowed identities anchor this succinct but perfectly formed tale.
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 must use their wit and resourceful resilience to take dire matters into their own hands.
This debut novel sets itself up nicely for a series of fearless women and I certainly hope there will be more.
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