Don't get me wrong, I loved this book, but did no one else think that Billie is really just Phryne Fisher moved from 20's Melbourne to post war Sydney. There's even the handsome detective Hank to replace Jack. ( )

Here we have what appears to be the beginning of a new series, a female investigator in Sydney, and ex-soldier as her associate, and a historical setting to boot.

Billie is asked to look for a young 17 year old man, who disappears after visiting a Sydney night club to talk to a well known wealthy auctioneer.

The novel opens with a Prologue which appears to be an account of what has happened to the young man.

As befits the first novel in a series readers are given a lot of background about Billie and Sam, her associate, and the background material continues throughout the novel. The year is 1946 and Australia is beginning to recover from the aftermath of World War II, but there is a lot of opposition to Billie taking on what is seen as men's work.

A well told tale with strong adherence to historical setting if not strictly factual. ( )

4.75 Stars. I loved Tara Moss’ Makedde Vanderwall PI crime series and wholeheartedly recommend it to those who enjoy feisty and intelligent leading ladies. As a fan of Moss’ confident and engaging writing style, I had no doubt Dead Man Switch (and this new series) would be great reading. But, the combination of vivid scene depiction, taut plotting, diverse and engaging characters and the exploration of meaty issues, made it so much more than that.

What’s not to love about Billie Walker? She’s world-wise and resourceful; staunchly independent, sharp of mind and brave of heart. The perfect attributes for a PI. She’s experienced the best and worst of human nature first-hand as a war reporter in Europe, and returned with a heavy burden to carry and a hole in her heart, like so many others. But she has strong shoulders, a sewing machine and sensible footwear. She’s a girl to my own heart, swearing by the restorative powers of tea. And of course, if she needs them she’s got her pistol and her feminine wiles too. Continue reading>> https://bookloverbookreviews.com/2019/10/dead-man-switch-by-tara-moss-review-sma... ( )

Dead Man Switch by Tara Moss introduces Billie Walker, an ex war correspondent now working as a private investigator in post-war Sydney, Australia.

Still grieving the absence of her photojournalist husband who is missing Europe, Billie Walker has reopened her late father’s private detective agency to support herself and her mother. As a woman in what is considered a man’s world, work has been slow, but a missing persons case is about to change all that.

With her 'Fighting Red' lipstick, elegant attire, and a pearl handled Colt strapped to her thigh, Billie is an appealing lead character. Feisty, clever and resourceful, she is a dogged investigator who doesn’t shy away from the more unseemly aspects of the job, and proves she can hold her own when threatened. Billie is ably assisted by Sam, a returned serviceman who acts as her secretary, among other things. Young and handsome, he sports some scars from his time at war, and admires his employer.

Though I felt Dead Man Switch got off to somewhat of a slow start, I soon found myself caught up in the intrigue. The mystery of the missing teenager is well plotted,
taking unexpected turns, colliding with murder, theft, war crimes, and a personal vendetta. There are scenes of exciting action, including a street brawl, a gun fight, and a car chase, along with tense moments of confrontation.

Moss deftly evokes post war NSW, moving between the inner city and the Blue Mountains. Set in 1946, the author incorporates the social issues of the day including rationing, sexism, and racism.

I am really looking forward to reading more mysteries featuring Billie Walker, Dead Man Switch is an entertaining and thrilling read. ( )