Verity Birdwood

Blurb from the book

Mux Tully, controversial, irrepressible superstar is finally settling down. Or is he? His scapegoat son Douglas and adoring daughter Wendy certainly think so. So does his estranged third wife, the artist Berwyn Kyte. And former lover and long-time friend Isa Truby. But Max loves surprises. And now he is planning one that will outdo anything yet.

Blurb from the book

At discreet Deepdene, the guests are ready to test for themselves the makeover mansion's claim that every woman can - with expensive encouragement - realise her full beauty.

Outside the rain begins to fall. Inside, beneath the smooth surface of the Deepdene routines, undercurrents stir and gather strength. Soon it is clear to Verity Birdwood that all is not what it seems. But even sharp, resourceful Birdie does not suspect that within Deepdene's silk-lined walls is an enemy with murder in mind.

Blurb from the book

Debate rages when Trevor Lamb, convicted five years ago for the brutal murder of his wife, is released with a pardon. Passions run high, especially in Hope's End, the tiny rural backwater that is home to the notorious Lamb clan.

When, twenty-four hours after his release, Trevor Lamb is foud dead in his hometown, the police think it's an open and shut case. Privately, some think it's no more than Lamb deserved. But then matters take a shocking twist and private investigator Verity Birdwood finds herself compelled to uncover the truth.

Blurb from the book

The old crowd had gathered at Aunt Alice's once again - to pick apples against a chilly orchard setting. Beneath the surface were the usual boiling jealousies, frustrations and uneasy gaps between the generations and in-laws. Or was there something different about this year?

Blurb from the book

Christmas may be the season to be jolly, but there's a noticeable absence of good will at Frederick's Department Store, where behind the very professional smiles lurk thoughts of murder. As Verity Birdwood recounts in this witty collection of her most intriguing cases, the the Australian sleuth discovers that tidings of joy can be overshadowed by Death's dark hand.