Dead Man's Chest (Phryne Fisher Mysteries)
After some rather harrowing adventures (Murder on a Midsummer Night, 2009) Phryne Fisher, the Australian flapper and PI, is determined to enjoy a quiet vacation. After packing maid Dot, adopted daughters Jane and Ruth, and cat Molly into her Hispano Suiza, Phryne drives to Queenscliff, only to discover that the rental house is missing its butler and housekeeper. Then, despite her desire for a murder-free vacation, she takes on an investigation after the missing housekeeper’s beloved dog shows up on her backstep, filthy and hungry, and the local coppers prove to be no help. Phryne’s determination to get it all wrapped up before boyfriend Lin Chung joins her makes for a fast-paced story. Greenwood weaves in a local legend involving pirates and missing treasure, and Phryne makes friends with some wacky surrealists in this very enjoyable eighteenth series entry. A major new character is introduced as Phryne welcomes into the family a young man who proves a willing and capable assistant investigator. The limited cast of characters (most of Phryne’s regulars stay in Melbourne) makes this a good choice for series newcomers. --Jessica Moyer