THE CASTLEMAINE MURDERS

The Phryne Fisher mystery series returns with a lighthearted escapade. Independent 1920s' feminist Fisher, complete with Chinese lover and pearl-handled pistol, solves another murder in a rough-and-tumble Australian setting. Fisher's household, especially her stuffy sister newly arrived from London, is bewildered by the accidental discovery of an old corpse at an amusement park. Fisher's investigations result in death threats and a fascinating personal connection with the gold rush of the 1850s. Reader Stephanie Daniel delivers plenty of zest and folly and provides the right combination of perkiness and intelligence for the heroine. Daniel's lovely English tones are suitable for some characters, but more Australian accents would have been welcome for others. N.M.C. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 06]