On Track for Murder tells the story of Abigail and her younger brother Bertrand, who has learning difficulties, who leave England hoping for a better life in Australia towards the end of the 19th century. Things don’t quite go to plan when her family is affected by a murder and Abigail gets involved in the murder investigation. Abigail persuades the police that their initial suspicions of who the murderer is are wrong and takes it upon herself to try to solve the murder.
I found this an interesting read. It’s not a period of history I’m very familiar with, especially at that time in Australia. I thought the historical details about the railway and Perth were fascinating and the working of the justice systems were interesting too. Abigail was an interesting character being a strong, determined and intelligent woman at a time when most women were probably expected to stay quietly at home until married. Being encouraged in her education by her father had given her different expectations and a belief in her own abilities.
Although not a fast paced crime thriller, there was enough going on with the murder mystery part of the story to keep me reading and guessing and there was a romantic element to the story too. This book is an interesting mix of history, romance and mystery. (3.5 out of 5 stars)
Thank you to Kate Appleton at Authoright for providing a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion. On Track for Murder was published by Clink Street Publishing on 1st September 2015 and you can order a copy here: On Track for Murder
On Track for Murder
Travelling from England to Australia in the late nineteenth century, Abigail Sergeant and her brother,Bertrand, are looking forward to their new life. Leaving behind the prejudices that would likely have seen Bertrand committed to an institution before he reached adulthood, Abigail hopes their new life will offer freedom and security.But what awaits them on the shores of the Swan River dashes any prospects of a blissful life. A murder is committed and Abigail’s family is thrown into turmoil. The evidence is damning. Only the guilty would be found standing over the body clutching the bloodied murder weapon. But something is not right. Police are convinced they have their killer. Abigail is certain they are wrong. As their one potential witness is missing, Abigail persuades the detective to allow time for a search. But that time is limited. Chasing across Western Australia with a reluctant Constable Dunning as her chaperone, Abigail is determined to uncover the truth. If only she had an inkling of what that may be. Through deception, kidnap, sabotage and arson, Abigail finds a resolve she didn’t know she possessed. Her understanding of mechanical principles surprises everyone, as does her tenacity. She turns out to be a capable young woman. But is that enough to save an innocent from injustice?
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