This book was everything I had hoped for. While I was familiar with the movie and TV program, I had not read one of the novels. I immediately noticed the wonderful use of language. Some readers will want to use the dictionary while reading the book.

There are two story arcs; one Phryne and Dot on vacation, the other keeps those left at home (Detective-Sergeant Hugh Collins and the children supported by Mr and Mrs Butler) solve the death of a girl in school with Ruth and Jane.

I've read most of Kerry Greenwood's books and wondered how she could write more, but this story is one of her most interesting books so far, I'm saying that she has proven she can write about Phryne Fisher even if she goes backward. We have three stories to keep us enamored with Phryne, the first is with her young foundlings, Jane, Ruth and Tinker, a body, (Claire) was found by Tinker when he was done fishing for eels in the bay. They set about finding the murder with Hugh Collins as the leader. The second was missing women, two varieties, in Hepburn Springs and Daylesford. Phryne and Dot were on the case. The third were several mysterious murders of young men attracted to a local girl, Annie, who was serving beer at The Temperance Hotel. Here again were Phryne and Dot. Kerry elaborates much more than I have explained with all the characters she has, with Bert, Cec, Jack Robinson, Mr. & Mrs. Butler and a host of new characters in Daylesford. I really needed the use of my Kindle for all the words which Kerry is use too, in her story. I love the way she brings everything together it's a never ending story. I gave her 5 out of 5 stars.

I have always heard good things about this author and this particular series of novels, but I never had a chance to read one until now. A very enjoyable read that I quickly relished in two days. It’s very well written, and I had no problem catching on to the various characters and their backstories. The main character herself is very feisty and witty. The mystery itself is simple but with enough detail and twists and turns to keep the reader interested until the very end. I highly recommend this novel and look forward to reading more from this author.

Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press

I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.

A mysterious invitation to a country spa holiday from an unknown retired Captain has Phryne curious. The spa is for shell shocked victims which is close to her heart but wonders why she is invited.

She takes her servant Dot as they venture on their trip. Her servant will get to meet interesting women who run the place that they are staying while Phryne is dined by the Captain with delicious food. But soon this quaint world will soon be filled with women being trafficking and murder bodies start to climb.

Meantime all isn’t quiet at home as her wards get involved in a friend’s mysterious death who is found floating in the docks who was pregnant at the time
It is a charming cozy read full of murder and adventures.

The lovely gift of a new Phryne Fisher mystery amid a challenging epidemic and political madness is most appreciated. An excellent read in a series that never disappoints with Phryne reminding us all to carry on with elegance and bravado..