“Murder on the Ballarat Train” - Kerry Greenwood

(Phryne Fisher book 3)

🚂 Planes, trains, and cars — oh my! Phryne and Dot are en route to a holiday in Ballarat when mayhem ensues. We begin with a chloroform attack on Phryne and her fellow train passengers. An elderly woman is murdered and her body tossed off the train. There is an amnesiac girl, a possible prostitution ring preying on impoverished girls, as well as suggestions of voodoo and hypnotism at work.  Add to that a men’s rowing team and chorus group (read: 1920s frat boys). What could possibly go amiss?

🚂 The Phryne novels are lighthearted capers. You needn’t think overmuch as the mystery isn’t particularly intricate. Phryne’s panache and humor are what will draw you in and keep you engaged. MBT gets cracking immediately as we dive into the action with the opening sentence itself.

🚂 I love Phryne’s physicality. She’s not just a cerebral detective; she takes risks and gets her hands dirty. Quite the opposite of M. Hercule Poirot. Phryne has a kind heart, ever ready to do battle on behalf of vulnerable people - especially women and children. She also has penchant for handsome men which she indulges with abandon.

🚂 Phryne has a loyal cadre of Dot, Bert, Cec, and Mr. and Mrs. Butler in tow. She also has a slew of pioneering female friends - a doctor, a criminal lawyer, and a pilot - who jump in to aid her in her exploits. It’s 1920s girl power, and overall a light and fun read.