In the world of fictional detectives, few embody the essence of integrity and grit as Detective Dave Burrows does. Created by bestselling author Fleur McDonald, Dave has become a beloved figure, captivating readers with his dry wit, unwavering loyalty and tough exterior. In our exclusive interview with Detective Burrows, we delve into his character, his values, and what makes him a standout figure in the realm of crime fiction. Join us as we uncover the man “behind the badge” and explore the world through his eyes.
Thank you for joining us today Detective Burrows. Our fans are excited to learn more about what makes you tick! Let’s settle in with a coffee. How do you take it?
White with one, extra hot. Thanks muchly.
What has been the hardest case you have had so far?
Probably when my mentor and partner Spencer Brown was murdered by Bulldust. I knew there was something wrong, even before Spencer went out bush looking for Bulldust, it just didn’t sit well with me. The investigation as such wasn’t tough, because we knew the POI was either Bulldust or his brother Scott. It was telling Spencer’s wife, and giving the eulogy was the worst part, along with the fear I wouldn’t find either of the perpetrators and get to throw them in gaol for life. And the fact that Spencer went out there for me. Not for a case, not to investigate anything, he went for me. And he was killed.
What bad habit are you struggling to overcome?
Ah, My new partner Bob Holden tells me I’m always reactive and going at things like a bull at a gate. He’d like me to be more measured and methodical. When the adrenalin takes me I’ve got no control, I just know that I’m on to something and I’ll follow it to the end.
FWH: What’s your secret passion?
I had a summer romance back when I was eighteen. If Kim and I hadn’t lost contact I would have married her instead of Melinda. We had a blast that summer. I went to the beach in South Australia with my cousin Kate and I met Kim in the surf one day. Never thought I’d be knocked off my feet by a smile, but there you have it. I think about Kim every day and I’ve still got her photo tucked away in my desk at work. I’d love to find her again, one day. See if we click as well as I thought we did.
What is your biggest regret?
Bringing Bulldust into my family’s life. He murdered my mother-in-law and even though Melinda and I were on shaky ground then, I’d always held a hope we could work it out. But not after the incident at Mark’s house. They were done with me. That day has affected every aspect of my life and will continue to do so. It still makes me angry and sad all at the same time, and I can’t see that feeling ever going away. It might get less, but it’ll always be there. Really, I don’t want it to leave. I’m responsible, so that feeling should always be part of me as a reminder.
How do you relax after a hard day solving crime?
Don’t mind a run. Or a beer. Or both.
What is your proudest moment?
Holding both of my daughters when they were born. I was a bit late to Alice’s birth – another sore point with Melinda because I was up north on a case and I didn’t get back in time, but I was there a few hours afterwards. There’s not greater feeling than seeing a tiny human being you helped create for the first time.
What song do you sing out loud?
Nothing very well!
Who or what is your favourite sporting person or team?
I like everything and don’t follow anything, if that makes sense? Can watch most sports but if I miss a game, I’m not heartbroken.
Who can make you smile no matter how you are feeling?
So there’s this chick I’m sort of seeing at the moment. Her name is Shannon, and she always makes me smile. Not sure if we’re there for the long haul, but we’re having a bit of fun now.
What do you notice first about a person?
Their eyes. You can tell a lot about a person by their eyes. If I’m interviewing a suspect, I tend to watch their face carefully. Body language is obvious because even the tiniest of movements is obvious, whereas expressions are much more subtle and they’re not only on the face, they’re in the eyes.
What do you read (when it isn’t a Fleur McDonald book)?
Don’t mind a Fleur McDonald book. She’s not a bad writer and the lead detective seems to have it sorted. I like that! I tend to read thrillers like Tom Clancy and Harlan Coben; I like them because even though there are similarities to my job, they’re different enough to not make me think I’m at work … ’Cause I really don’t’ need to be reading work on my days off, which are pretty few and far between.
Detective Dave Burrows’ journey reveals deep loyalty and the weight of loss. His mentor’s murder adds emotional depth, highlighting the personal stakes in crime solving. Snow rider offers thrilling gameplay where players race through snowy landscapes, performing tricks and collecting power-ups.