LIES AND DECEPTION

Lies + Deception = Murder

Melbourne 1925. Jasper Fitzalan Howard is found stabbed to death in his room at The Hotel Windsor. In a bizarre twist, he is clutching a tarot card, the Ten of Swords, in his right hand. Initially, the police identify him as a wealthy investor and a cousin of the Duke of Norfolk. However, while investigating the murder, Reggie da Costa, The Argus’s celebrated crime reporter, uncovers a web of lies and deception surrounding Howard’s carefully constructed façade. It seems that Howard has engaged in swindling wealthy businessmen whilst blackmailing their wives, giving Reggie a host of suspects for the murder.

. . .

“Snake oil cures, confidence men, fortune telling and murder! Laraine Stephens is in fine form with her fourth novel about 1920s Melbourne crime reporter Reggie da Costa, Lies and Deception. Set in a well imagined historical Melbourne, Lies and Deception is a fast moving and highly entertaining mystery that contains just the right amount of fascinating side detail.  Full of twists and surprises, it is a very engaging read that will appeal to fans of Kerry Greenwood’s Phryne Fisher novels.”

~ Jeff Popple, Murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

“A fascinating journey into 1925 Melbourne, Australia, packed with snake oil remedies, con men and women, a tarot card reader and a cryptic clue left at two murder scenes! A real who-dunnit solved by suave investigative crime reporter Reggie da Costa.  I confess I couldn't identify the killer...a real feat!”

~ Susan Waller Lehmann, true crime author

and criminal defense investigator

“I enjoyed the period flavor Stephens brings to Lies and Deception, her protagonist’s attention to 1920’s style, and other historic touches that drew me into one of my favorite eras. The clever plot and interesting characters make Lies and Deception an engaging read from beginning to end.”

~ Skye Alexander, author of the Lizzie Crane Roaring Twenties

Mystery Series

“Set in Melbourne in 1925, Lies and Deception offers an engaging glimpse into the racy world of crime reporter Reggie da Costa. This fast-paced and entertaining mystery will appeal to fans of Phryne Fisher as it paints a vivid picture of Melbourne and Sydney in the Jazz Age. We look forward to further adventures with the dashing Reggie da Costa.”

~ Carol Bruce, author of the Gwen Armstrong Mysteries