When overworked forensic pathologist Nicola Fox arrives for a long-overdue break at her holiday house in Brunswick Heads, on the NSW north coast, she’s shocked to discover someone sunbaking on one of the sun lounges in her backyard. And that the sunbaker has been dead for some time.
Rumours soon emerge that the sunbaker took more than a few dark secrets to his grave, secrets many people – and especially the police – were keen to bury. When the arse-covering and finger-pointing begin in earnest, Nicola finds herself a suspect.
New to town, she only knows one person who might be able to save her: Jack Harris, a journalist at the local newspaper, The Beacon. When he begins investigating, the police organised crime unit arrives, and soon they are threatening both him and Nicola, leaving Jack to wonder if it was the police themselves who had committed the crime.
Can Jack uncover who really killed the sunbaker, and why the body was left in the backyard of a forensic pathologist, before the escalating threats to his own wellbeing become more than just threats?
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Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
What a fantastic book. I loved everything about it, from the setting to the characters and of course the story. I wanted to finish it in one session, that’s how good it was. I would seriously recommend this novel being at the top of your “to read” list – Jack, Caitlin and Nicola are waiting!! Kerrie, NSW, 5 stars
The Sunbaker is a light-hearted, well-paced mystery that strikes a satisfying balance between clever crime and laidback charm. With a solid crime at its core, the story is laced with sharp wit and just the right number of twists to keep the reader guessing, without ever becoming lost. The protagonist is an intelligent and savvy journalist with a relaxed attitude to life. His easy-going charm contrasts well with the uptight ‘Harriers’ organised crime unit, and he’s an instantly likeable lead. The supporting cast is equally strong, with well-rounded characters who add depth and colour to the story. The story flows effortlessly, building tension at just the right pace, and making the most of its Australian coastal setting. The descriptions of sun-drenched beaches and sparkling waters add texture and beauty without ever slowing the plot. I didn’t realise when I picked it up that The Sunbaker is the second book in the Jack Harris series, but it absolutely works as a standalone. That said, I’ll be going back to read the first to discover more about past events referenced in this book. A thoroughly enjoyable crime novel. Highly recommended for fans of smart mysteries that don’t take themselves too seriously. Kylie, VIC, 5 stars
If you love crime, thriller and who dunnit then this is the book for you. The very first chapter had me hooked, straight into all the action. Lots of red herrings just to make you think even more. Just when I thought I had the murder solved, nope I was wrong. It was like 2 steps forward then 1 back. There’s murder, organised crime, crooked cops, computer hackers, pathologists, journalists and some very colourful characters. A few health issues are discussed, romance, friendship and just trying to stay out of jail. The north coast of NSW is described beautifully especially Brunswick Heads where the story takes place and 2 of the eateries a pub and restaurant the food described made my mouth water. The reason for the crime is not what I was expecting or who is killer was…this is not revealed till the last few chapters. A great read. Celina, NSW, 5 stars
All forensic pathologist Nicola Fox wants is to relax. However, discovering a decomposing body sunbaking in her backyard, she soon finds herself the main suspect in a high profile murder investigation… Nicola turns to Jack Harris, journalist at The Beacon to clear her name. Soon the case becomes personal and Jack and his contacts, some on the right side of the law, some with a more questionable background set about solving the case. From the first chapter I was hooked on the story but more importantly on P.A. Thomas’ storytelling. The characters are well developed, the story captivating and there was enough humour to make me chuckle. A solid murder mystery. Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys their murders with a little bit of laughter on the side. Eileen, SA, 5 stars
What a great book! I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters, definitely not your regular run of the mill types! Jack, a journalist, son of a media mogul. Caitlin, a skateboard riding, dreadlock wearing Lawyer. Ricky, a computer whizz, childhood friend of Jack, and a family member of a notorious crime gang. Begley, a local policeman. Together they work towards solving 2 bizarre murders which occur in the local area. This book is a murder mystery with a twist, with many light hearted moments that had me laughing. This is the second book in the series but can easily be read as a stand alone novel. I have already started to read the first book in this series and I look forward to reading more by P A Thomas in the future. Anne, ACT, 5 stars
P.A. Thomas has created a very interesting storyline which is followed through with believable characters who hold your attention all the way to the end. I was hanging to read each chapter because The Sunbaker has many twists and turns which only a good novelist can produce. It’s well done and a must read for curling up on a cold winters night under the doona! Rhonda, QLD, 5 stars
A cleverly written, funny and enjoyable read. The banter and relationships between all the characters was really entertaining with a mix of some dark humour. I did laugh a few times out loud even though its a murder mystery. The way PA Thomas writes this, keeps you guessing. You think you have an idea of who’s involved but when things start to piece together you start to rethink it all. A really enjoyable read. Sarah, QLD, 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book – engaging, entertaining and evocative- I was hooked from the start. Journalist Jack Harris is drawn into a murder case when his friend Nicola (a forensic pathologist) finds a dead body “sunbaking” in the backyard of her holiday house. Soon the police investigation is escalated, implicating both Jack and his friends- can he solve the mystery before it’s too late? The cast of quirky and appealing characters is what makes this novel stand out. Their interactions and dialogue made me laugh out loud and balanced some of the grittier parts nicely. The author obviously knows the Byron Bay area very well and it too is a character in the novel, with vivid descriptions and superb writing immersing us in this beautiful area. The chapters are short and punchy to keep you absorbed in the story. The mystery is cleverly thought out and I did not guess what would happen until the very end. I only realised that this was the second book from P.A. Thomas after I had finished. Although there are references to the history shared by some characters you certainly don’t need to have read the first book to enjoy this one. Debbie, NSW, 5 stars
The Sunbaker by PA Thomas had me hooked within the first couple of pages! The story is primarily focused around Jack Harris a quirky, humorous (with a hint of smart-arsery) journalist who has a knack for getting the right people on-side and the wrong people off-side. When forensic pathologist Nicola Fox finds a dead body sunbaking in the backyard or her holiday home, she turns to Jack for support as the organised crime unit get involved and their questionable tactics put the heat on her. With plenty of action, twists and turns I found this a book I didn’t want to put down. The main characters are flawed, but very likeable and ultimately want justice to prevail. I am really keen to read The Beacon by PA Thomas which includes several the same characters. The book is set in Australia and contains a lot of references to the local area, which I think assists to make it more relatable. Michelle, TAS, 5 stars
This is my first novel by P.A. Thomas. I’d only got halfway through it and had already placed a hold on his first book with the library! Wow, what a fantastic ride that was. I was hooked right from the start. The characters are so well rounded, I felt like they became friends of mine as well and I was totally invested in their welfare. The story flows beautifully, the tension building at the right pace. Nothing is as it seems, but I certainly never guessed what the outcome would be. I’ve visited Byron Bay a few times over the years and have holidayed at Brunswick Heads, frequently returning to visit the markets and have a meal at the Hotel Bruns so I felt right at home with the setting of this story. Maree, QLD, 5 stars
From the first chapter, I knew I would enjoy this book. I read a lot of mystery novels, but what sets this one apart is the humour that is present throughout the story. I also enjoyed the short and snappy chapters which kept me wanting to read more. There are several clever twists which made it hard to predict the end. I have addd the author’s previous book to my list and will look out for more. Highly recommended Marjolaine, WA, 5 stars
I was hooked by The Sunbaker almost instantly – by the time I had reached the halfway mark, I could not put it down. The writing is well paced, the shorter chapters are snappy and concise (loved them) and the way each character developed throughout the novel – I felt like I knew all their personalities very early, which led to my rapid investment in what occurred. I quickly became enamoured with Jack, his relationship with cranky Begley and their shared hatred for The Harriers, Begley’s one liners had me laughing out loud many times. Add in Caitlin, upholder of the law and a sceptic when it came to Nicola’s growing attraction to Jack. I also can’t forget Jack’s dodgy, turn up out of the blue, mate Ricky, master hacker. I particularly enjoyed that the book didn’t just end when they’d solved the crime and that the author played out the fallout for members of the force, in the media, and relationships before it finished. I thoroughly enjoy the murder and suspense genre, usually I can decipher who the perpetrator is, I didn’t crack it until close to the ending this time around. I will be recommending The Sunbaker to fellow avid readers of this genre, and also those who may feel they’re ready to read a new author. Suzanne, VIC, 5 stars
A very well written mystery novel that kept me interested the whole way through. Not super wordy, but short sharp chapters that maintain the anticipation of finding the killer. Multiple storylines amongst the main who-do-it crime spree.All seamlessly flow together until the unexpected end. Jack is a super cool character who is very likeable and keeps the story fun and bouncing along. Tim Tams anyone?! Sharnee, QLD, 5 stars
The Sunbaker is an entertaining murder mystery with a difference. It’s not your typical whodunit – it’s full of surprises, sharp wit, and a whole lot of laughs. From the very first chapter, the story grabs you and doesn’t let go, keeping you guessing all the way to the end. What really makes this book stand out are the characters. Jack and Ricky, in particular, are a brilliant duo. Their banter and antics are genuinely hilarious, and at times, I found myself laughing out loud. They bring a real charm and warmth to the story that balances the mystery perfectly. The plot is clever, fast-paced, and full of unexpected twists. Even seasoned mystery readers will find it hard to predict where it’s going, which makes the ride even more enjoyable. If you’re after a fresh, funny, and cleverly written murder mystery, this is a great pick. Highly recommend! Carly, NSW, 5 stars
Set in the Byron Bay area and surrounds this book has it all, murder, mystery, a slow burning love story and some laugh out loud humour. Nicola Fox overworked Newcastle pathologist needs a break so loads up her car to take of for a couple of days break at her newly purchased beach house in Brunswick Heads. Upon her arrival she is created with Blue Flashing Lights, Police cars and Police at her home as a body has been found in her backyard sitting in a wheelchair complete with book and a cocktail and so begins this fast pasted story involving some shady characters. It was a very fast pass read something happening at the turn of each page and chapter. I now plan to read the debut novel The Beacon by this author. Leigh, WA, 5 stars
A very refreshing who dunit novel. The main characters are very unique and strong. From the journalist come detective who never sticks to the rules and his best mate that breaks every rule. Then there is the gorgeous lawyer and a sexy pathologist. A fantastic array of characters come to life to solve the murders. A terrific read. Eleanor, WA, 5 stars
Loved this real Aussie murder mystery! Set in Byron Bay, it was great being able to recognise a lot of the places. Usually I can guess the protagonist early on in the book but I didn’t get it till right at the end! Thoroughly enjoyed and I know you will too! Jenny, VIC, 5 stars
The Sunbaker is an entertaining mystery novel that keeps you guessing till the final chapter with an ending l did not see coming. lt has a number of interesting twists which leave you with some unanswered questions with a need to know more. lf you love a good murder or two this is for you. Julie, NSW, 5 stars
A very entertaining read, easy to read, lovely to catch up with Jack Harris again and fellow characters Policeman Ken Begley, always makes you laugh, and the daredevil Caitlin and the is he honest or not so honest Ricky. Jack is faced with another murder and seems to always be in the wrong place at the wrong time or the right place one is never sure. Jack is also never popular with certain people and this adds another element to the story. New and old characters are intertwined and there is a little romance and or jealousy thrown in to add to the story. I have to admit that I was quite surprised at the ending when all was revealed and all the loose ends tidied up or not as I can feel a third book coming our way. Readers of Joan Sauers would enjoy this book. I am surprised that PA Thomas is a male writer as I don’t usually read male writers mystery stories. Usually too much violence. Loved this book and look forward to more. Elaine, NSW, 5 stars
I absolutely loved this book and read it in 2 days! While it is a murder mystery the characters are likeable and the setting is familiar to those who know the NSW north coast region. Jack finds himself investigating a murder, the body found in the backyard of an acquaintance of his. He has an unlikely pal on the police force who provides him with updates and calls on his best friend to assist him with some pretty illegal jobs along the way. His wannabe girlfriend is facing the possible diagnosis of Huntingtons disease and is weighing up whether to have genetic testing to find out once and for all with the idea that their relationship can go to the next level if the result is negative. This story kept me engaged all the way through and the familiar setting added warmth to the story. Absolutely fantastic! Helen, NSW, 5 stars
What a story! I loved this book from start to finish. It had me hooked from the beginning. The Sunbaker is a witty and cleverly written Australian crime novel set in Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads, NSW, with laugh-out-loud moments from its likeable characters. The author masterfully blends humour with suspense, creating a captivating narrative. As the story progresses, secrets unravel, keeping you guessing and cheering for the good guys. Jack Harris is determined to solve the mystery while keeping himself and his friends safe. The twists and turns are brilliantly executed, making it a must-read for crime novel enthusiasts. I have not read P.A. Thomas before, but I will be adding him to my list. Rachel, NSW, 5 stars
The Sunbaker by PA Thomas had me reading way into the early hours of the morning and wanting more. If you are looking for a Murder Mystery which has you laughing out loud (not just smiling to yourself) then this is the book for you. My wife grabbed it before I had a chance, and all I could hear was chuckles for hours. Set in New South Wales, Australia, the story follows two loveable larrikins as they endeavour to solve a couple of murders using any means available to them (mostly not quite legal), including a police officer nearing retirement and the leader of a notorious bikie gang. Skilfully written, you can almost picture the characters sitting across the table from you and you won’t be able to decide if the good guys are bad, or the bad guys are good. Highly recommended reading. Have already tracked down the Authors other book and will be keeping a VERY good eye for any further writing. Terry, SA, 5 stars
I loved this book from the first page. The characters were engaging, the dialogue was snappy and fresh and the chapters were just long enough to keep you hooked. Jack- what a great hero and overall good person. He’s the sort of guy everyone wants to be friends with or at least associated with – he’s cute, smart and savvy. Add his integrity into the mix and he is almost the perfect man. And of course Caitlin, his cute as a button friend, upholder of the law with a lust for life and her own understandable commitment issues and Nicola, forensic pathologist, a bit of a cold fish who is fighting to clear her name while still looking after those around her, especially Bernard her fellow pathologist, both recognise this fact. Begley is also a character- his abrupt, down to earth turn of phrase made me laugh out loud, because underneath it all, he too is all about the integrity and doing the right thing. Add in his highly amusing yet ‘dumpy’ and dodgy friend Ricky and you have all the ingredients for a fantastic adventure in NSW! Highly recommended- please tell me there will be a book 2 or a series! Kathy, VIC, 5 stars
The Sunbaker is a really enjoyable crime novel. P. A. Thomas writes with clear and concise intentions. He brings depth to a variety of different characters and has a plot with enough twists and turns to keep the reader interested Set in Byron Bay and Newcastle, the reader is taken on a journey following the Harriers, the organised crime department of NSW police, and their involvement with murder, lawyers, journalists and informants. Journalist Jack and lawyer Caitlin make fabulous central characters, with forensic pathologist Nicola adding a third component that means working and romantic relationships are often blurred Throwing in the loveable ruffian Ricky and homeless Moira, It’s hard not to smile when these guys get together. The SunBaker is a perfect combination of an intriguing plot and well-rounded characters. Definitely worth diving into Alicia, NSW, 5 stars
Set in the laid-back and tight-knit community of Brunswick Heads, this beachside mystery begins when forensic pathologist Nicola Fox arrives for a much-needed holiday, only to find a corpse quite literally lounging in her backyard. Nicola just wanted some peace and quiet. He took it a little too literally. The narrative is tightly paced, immediately drawing readers into Nicola’s bewildering situation. Her wit and clinical insight contrast cleverly with the town’s quirky characters and the tensions simmering beneath its sunny surface. As the mystery deepens, local journalist Jack Harris becomes her reluctant ally. His investigation soon attracts the attention of the police’s organised crime unit, and the stakes rise quickly. What makes this mystery stand out is its sharp social commentary, hidden just beneath the sun, surf, and scandal. The story satirises bureaucracy, corruption, and the extremes people will go to bury their secrets. Darkly funny and delightfully unpredictable, this novel is far from your average whodunit. It’s Midsomer Murders crossed with Only Murders in the Building. An immersive and entertaining escape just be careful which lounge chair you choose by the pool. Julie H, SA, 5 stars
The Sunbaker by P.A. Thomas piqued my interest on the first page and kept me engrossed until the end. I was drawn into the lives of the tight cast of characters, including forensic pathologist Nicola Fox, who arrives at her holiday house and discovers a dead sunbaker in a sun lounge and the local person she asks for help: Beacon journalist Jack Harris. The landmarks in and around Byron Bay are richly drawn and add to the endearing realism of the novel. The chapters are fast-paced and full of suspense as the threats to both Nicola and Jack escalate. The book feels like a guilty indulgence but is really good-hearted, nail-biting fun. If you like Australian crime novels that are both intriguing and witty, then you’ll love The Sunbaker. Jamie, QLD, 4 stars
I was hooked from the beginning. I loved the short chapters and didn’t find that the story line dragged on like other books do. It was a very enjoyable read. Dr Nicola Fox a forensic pathologist arrives at her holiday home in Brunswick Heads on the NSW North Coast. Nicola arrives to find a someone sunbaking on one of the sun lounges in her backyard and discovers the person is dead. Nicola calls Jack, a journalist at the local newspaper The Beacon, who she has worked with in the past, to be her support person when the police question her. Jack is an interesting character, his best friend is Ricky Martinelli whose family is one of Melbourne’s leading crime families. Although Nicola does not know who the deceased person is she ends up being the main suspect. The deceased person has a shady background and ties to bikie gangs. Jack is asked unofficially by a local policeman who is nearing retirement to help solve the case. Jack and Ricky do their own investigations to solve the murder. I really enjoyed this novel and it had me guessing the whole way through. Renae, QLD, 4 stars
When Nicola arrives at her holiday home by the coast a body is found on her sun lounge in the backyard. Who was this person, why were they left at her holiday house. Secrets from the past start to emerge which the towns people wanted to keep buried. Heather, NSW, 4 stars
What a fast paced and fun read. Although about 2 murders, there is plenty of humour and light moments. Journalist Jack Harris, his childhood mate Ricky who has plenty of criminal connections and Inspector Begley who has anger management issues, work towards solving the crimes through often questionable means. Throw in Forensic pathologist Nicola whose home the bodies were found at and Caitlin, whose boss was murdered, both keen on Jack and you have a great read. Lyn, QLD, 4 stars
The Sunbaker by P.A. Thomas Is an interesting and intriguing crime novel. But what a great read. Lots of twists and turns. Great characters, the vulnerable but tough Nicola. Jack the journalist, living in Bryon but tough as nails, not scared of taking on the establishment. Caitlin the girl he loves and who loves him but is hiding a secret from him. I especially loved the twist at the end I would never have guessed the murderer. Highly recommend this book and Author. Can’t wait for his next book. Well done. Heather, VIC, 4 stars
An enjoyable murder mystery with twists and turns and hard to predict. Set in the Brunswick Heads in NSW makes for a beautiful setting. Nicola a forensic pathologist goes to her holiday house and discovers a sunbaker in her backyard who is dead. I hadn’t read the previous novel, but I got to know all the characters and enjoyed the humour throughout. The characters make the book, the relationship between Jack the investigative journalist and the other characters is enjoyable. Ricky his long-time friend, Caitlin a young lawyer, Begley the grumpy police officer and Moira the homeless lady. Easy to read and cleverly written. I would recommend to those who enjoy crime fiction. Julie, NSW, 4 stars
It is good to see Jack Harris, editor of the local Byron Bay newspaper and main character in P.A. Thomas’s previous book, back again. When a body is found lying on a sun lounge at a holiday home in Brunswick Heads, the Byron Bay police are sidelined by a special crime unit who arrive from the city. This does not improve the anger-management issues of local Inspector Ken Begley so he covertly supports Jack’s sleuthing. Is police corruption involved? Will the city team try to frame an innocent?Jack is supported in his voluntary detective work by a small cast of colourful characters. Ricky, Jack’s best friend since school days, can break into anything . . . online or offline. Lawyer Caitlin, with her dreadlocks, unusual tattoos and skateboard is a straight bat. However, the most unusual character is Lillian, the homeless woman who lives outside Jack’s home. Her feistiness and total contempt for all police, make her an ideal watcher and convenient concealer of vital evidence. This is a well-structured book with interesting characters and a complex storyline. A good read. Lesley, NSW, 4 stars
The Sunbaker is a cracking crime novel set in both Brunswick Heads and Byron Bay. Jack Harris is a local journalist who investigates the murder of a man found sprawled on a sun lounger in the backyard of a house belonging to Nicola, a forensic pathologist. Jack is aided by his friend, Caitlin, and his somewhat disreputable mate, Ricky. Their unorthodox methods lead to a more interesting journey than any standard police operation and the finale is one I didn’t see coming. Loved the writing, the quirky characters and the cultural references; they all added to an engrossing read. Perhaps this novel is a nod to Michael Connolly’s character, Jack McEvoy, also a journalist. Judi, QLD, 4 stars
If you ever get tired of dark, grim and gritty crime novels, then The Sunbaker could be the antidote you need. This enjoyable murder mystery, set in the beautiful surrounds of Brunswick Heads, captures the local character and colour and humour of Australian beachside communities. The Sunbaker has a solid crime at its heart, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing about perpetrator and motive. The characters are light and full of banter, with the added bonus of not seeming to be terribly concerned about dull things like turning up to work regularly, paying bills or obeying the law. While the light-heartedness makes it fun, the lack of reality is also jarring in places. As someone who has worked in big and small news rooms, I’d love to have Jack Harris’ job, where he fronts up at a couple of press conferences, asks one question so pointed that it makes a woman swoon and the other journalists envious, and then swans off to the office for an afternoon to turn in some poorly written news copy. Hold the front page! Like a mini-break to Byron Bay, The Sunbaker is fun, frothy, popcorn for the brain. Tiffany, WA, 4 stars
This was an interesting book for me .. mainly because it’s not really what I normally read but I got hooked straight away and was really enjoying the story of unsolved murder and the investigate journalist who is involved in trying to solve the puzzle. A few twists and turns made it interesting as well. The downside for me was that it became a little too unbelievable about 3/4 of the way through.. while the methods he used were intriguing and clever.. I just couldn’t see it really happening. I realize it’s a fiction book , but for me it took the shine off it a bit. Leonie, SA, 4 stars
I was not sure what to expect with this book. I’m a sucker for a great book cover and this one dragged me in. At first my eyebrows did raise above my sunglasses when I realised the setting for the book was Byron Bay. I’m not sure why, but I was pleasantly surprised. Great choice. Quite an interesting choice of location for this convoluted murder mystery. I felt it worked well. Cool and refreshing for a change. I enjoyed the first few pages which is the true danger zone for me as a reader. It’s the maker or the breaker for me. I found it quite engaging The writing style of P.A. Thomas was indeed worth an accompanying drink. Smooth but compelling. After reading the first few pages I decided to make an enthusiastic dive straight in. For the most part, the characters were likeable, especially Jack with his soft but roguish manner and Byron Bay easiness. The few little slow burn dramas being subtly served up to the reader just to ensure we were totally entertained. They were well worked into the storyline. I enjoyed the build of tension and I was invested totally in the outcome. Great read and I would thoroughly recommend. I would love the explore any other books by this Author. Leah, NSW, 4 stars
Really enjoyed this one! The setting was super vivid—felt like I was right there on the beach. The mystery kept me guessing, and the characters were quirky in the best way. Jack and Nicola made a great team, and the mix of humour and suspense worked so well. If you like Aussie crime stories with a bit of personality, definitely give this a go. Nektaria, VIC, 4 stars
This book was a great way to pass a couple of rainy days. The plot had enough twist and turns to keep me happily page turning. I enjoyed the main character and his sidekicks who were likeable although slightly flawed. I love a book that keeps me guessing until the end and this one did that. Being set in Australia with places that are familiar added to the ease of reading. If you like an entertaining who dunit I would recommend this one. Happy reading! Leeane, SA, 4 stars
The Sunbaker is a “whodunnit” crime novel set in the Northern Rivers of NSW. As I live a mere 30 minute drive from Brunswick Heads, the town in which the novel is set, I was familiar with a lot of the locations described which really brought the story to life. I can even vouch for the accuracy of the description of the size of the schnitzels at the Brunswick Hotel! The twists and turns of the evolving plot and cast of characters kept me guessing throughout the novel. It wasn’t until I finished the book that I realised it was the second novel in a series. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone story but perhaps reading The Beacon – the first novel with protagonist Jack Harris – would help to flesh out the backstories of the main characters. Overall, it was an easy and enjoyable read. Laura, NSW, 3 stars
I enjoyed the concept of the storyline, however I felt the characters lacked seriousness and depth. Mandy, VIC, 3 stars
“The Sunbaker,” by p.A. Thomas is a rollicking good yarn about a murder mystery that has taken place in the coastal town of Brunswick Heads. A man has been found sunbaking at the holiday home of forensic pathologist, Nicola Fox. The only problem is that he’s been murdered. From there we are taken on a whodunnit with the affable Jack, a journalist at the local newspaper, leading the way. Along with him are an assortment of characters who each have their own part to play as the mystery becomes more sinister and urgent. P.A. Thomas writes with a wry sense of humour, local knowledge and an eye for detail. The book has an authentically Australian flavour and is aptly titled as it’s the sort of book one can read whilst sunbaking; just make sure you know who’s around you. Susan, NSW, 3 stars
The Sunbaker by P.A. Thomas is the second outing for journalist Jack Harris so there are numerous references to his back story and why he has been “exiled” to a small regional newspaper in Byron Bay. The reader is quickly immersed into a grisly beachside murder with apparently no motive and few suspects. The author seems to be aiming for black humour but I am not a big fan of this slightly tongue in cheek crime genre where the police are portrayed as bumbling fools or corrupt stand over bullies. It is up to Jack and his friends to solve the mystery using some unorthodox and often illegal methods. There is an on and off romantic theme running through both stories which will likely be developed if there is a third outing for Jack Harris. There is action aplenty and the book is written with a light touch which would make good holiday reading. Dianne, QLD, 2 stars
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