AustLit

'Mrs. Spender sets her murder in Sydney, in the home of "one of Sydney's oldest and most influential families," and she labors the point of the family's importance—financially, socially and traditionally. "One of the most influential men in this country . . . ttie friend of Cabinet Ministers and Government" is found murdered . . . "Socially, his back ground was impeccable. He was extremely wealthy and reputed to have a finger in many important pies." The police investigations, which the members of the old and influential family resent as a vulgar Intrusion on their privacy—in fact, the Inspector in the case says, "A murder in the Pelton home? It's almost lese majeste"—uncover a "filthy brew,' of which greed, black mail and treachery are the principal ingredients.'

Source:

'Latest Fiction', The Advertiser, 13 November 1948, p.6.

'Death came in the night to Miles Fortescue, millionaire Australian newspaper owner, a man whom few had cause to love and many to fear. Eminent lawyers and politicians were among his guests on that night, and, as if in anticipation, a famous police inspector. The latter is delayed, and by the time he arrives his services are required in his professional capacity. Suspect Number One is the nephew of the deceased man, his heir, who had quarrelled with his uncle on the night of his death. Pat Antell, the girl who loves him, sees the noose tighten until it seems that nothing but a miracle can save him. The miracle, an audaciously illegal one, is contrived.'

Source:

'Death Comes in the Night', Maitland Daily Mercury, 12 November 1938, p.10.