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Belinda Lawrence Murder Mystery #5
A Wicked Design
Belinda Lawrence returns to her home town of Melbourne, to discover a murder that's close to her heart.
A murder which leads to the seat of political power, Parliament House.
The various threads of deceit and intrigue are gradually unravelled and, with Hazel Whitby at her side, Belinda is confronted by warring political factions.
The mystery deepens with the discovery of a priceless historical item, of value to both political powers, and which places Belinda's life in jeopardy.
The gregarious Major;
An enigmatic university Professor;
Two colourful antique sellers;
Eccentric retired music-hall entertainers;
And Belinda's partner, Mark Sallinger...
...all immersed in the scheming and covert encounters besieging Belinda as she solves her most challenging mystery.
Book Five in the Belinda Lawrence mystery series.
A murder which leads to the seat of political power, Parliament House.
The various threads of deceit and intrigue are gradually unravelled and, with Hazel Whitby at her side, Belinda is confronted by warring political factions.
The mystery deepens with the discovery of a priceless historical item, of value to both political powers, and which places Belinda's life in jeopardy.
The gregarious Major;
An enigmatic university Professor;
Two colourful antique sellers;
Eccentric retired music-hall entertainers;
And Belinda's partner, Mark Sallinger...
...all immersed in the scheming and covert encounters besieging Belinda as she solves her most challenging mystery.
Book Five in the Belinda Lawrence mystery series.
- GenresMystery
192 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2013
About the author
Brian Kavanagh
45 books58 followersBrian Kavanagh has many years’ experience in the Australian Film
Industry in areas of production, direction, editing and writing. His
editing credits include The Chant Of Jimmie Blacksmith, Odd
Angry Shot, The Devil's Playground, Long Weekend, Sex Is A
Four-Letter Word and the recent comedy, Dags. He received a
Lifetime Achievement Award from the Australian Film Editors
Guild and an Australian Film Institute award for Best Editing for
Frog Dreaming. His first feature film which he produced and
directed, A City's Child, won an AFI award for actress Monica
Maughan and was invited to screen at the London Film Festival
as well as Edinburgh, Montreal, Chicago and Adelaide, where it
won the Gold Southern Cross Advertiser Award for Best Australian
Film. He is a member of the Australian Society of Authors.
Author of Belinda Lawrence mystery series, CAPABLE OF MURDER,
THE EMBROIDERED CORPSE,
BLOODY HAM.
Industry in areas of production, direction, editing and writing. His
editing credits include The Chant Of Jimmie Blacksmith, Odd
Angry Shot, The Devil's Playground, Long Weekend, Sex Is A
Four-Letter Word and the recent comedy, Dags. He received a
Lifetime Achievement Award from the Australian Film Editors
Guild and an Australian Film Institute award for Best Editing for
Frog Dreaming. His first feature film which he produced and
directed, A City's Child, won an AFI award for actress Monica
Maughan and was invited to screen at the London Film Festival
as well as Edinburgh, Montreal, Chicago and Adelaide, where it
won the Gold Southern Cross Advertiser Award for Best Australian
Film. He is a member of the Australian Society of Authors.
Author of Belinda Lawrence mystery series, CAPABLE OF MURDER,
THE EMBROIDERED CORPSE,
BLOODY HAM.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 29, 2016
When Belinda returned home to Melbourne from the UK for a dear friend’s funeral, she had no idea the trouble she was about to invoke. Brad Delaney had been a boyfriend and had begged her to come back to him. But Mark Sallinger was her new beau – in fact they were engaged to be married. Mark was feeling a little insecure though, until Brad’s demise. Belinda was crushed; she was also very suspicious. Brad had been murdered but the police had no leads – Belinda was determined to find his killer and bring them to justice.
As Belinda and best friend Hazel Whitby started their investigation, what they uncovered led them into a maze of political intrigue. Suddenly there was danger surrounding them; Belinda had no idea who she could trust – and the lives of others were in jeopardy. What were they to do? Who could they talk to? The depth of the secrets astounded them – and as the mystery deepened and another body was found, Belinda knew she had to solve this one quickly.
A Wicked Design is the 5th cosy mystery in the Belinda Lawrence series by Aussie author Brian Kavanagh. Set in Melbourne, Australia, it was a great read with familiar places and landscapes. The plot is a great one, the pace fast as both Belinda and Hazel move through their investigation. Recommended.
With thanks to the author for this copy in exchange for my honest review.
As Belinda and best friend Hazel Whitby started their investigation, what they uncovered led them into a maze of political intrigue. Suddenly there was danger surrounding them; Belinda had no idea who she could trust – and the lives of others were in jeopardy. What were they to do? Who could they talk to? The depth of the secrets astounded them – and as the mystery deepened and another body was found, Belinda knew she had to solve this one quickly.
A Wicked Design is the 5th cosy mystery in the Belinda Lawrence series by Aussie author Brian Kavanagh. Set in Melbourne, Australia, it was a great read with familiar places and landscapes. The plot is a great one, the pace fast as both Belinda and Hazel move through their investigation. Recommended.
With thanks to the author for this copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 13, 2013
Belinda Lawrence receives a shocking telephone call from her mother. A former lover and successful architect, Brad Delaney, he had a meeting with Belinda’s fiancé Mark Sallinger the night before Brad was murdered. Belinda, however, has no idea of this meeting. All she knows is Brad was found in a local river, with his hands tied behind his back, and stones on his body to weigh him down. While she clearly had moved on past Brad, she was determined to find out who killed him. Her mother had secret designs that she would eventually marry Brad and thereby stay in Australia where her Mom could eventually share life with grandchildren.
At the funeral Belinda is convinced something is odd about this death. Brad’s brother, a Socialist fanatic, says he’s sad about his death but at the same time says there wasn’t much love lost between them, citing “materialism” as the reason for his dislike of his brother. Then there are other guests who are obviously important politicians. It turns out that Brad was working on a special project for the city’s Parliament House and had found something worth a fortune that was to be part of the new Dome on the building. Now, he’s gone, however, there are many, many people interested in finding out what he found in order to profit from it in various ways.
The treasure Brad found has not only monetary value beyond belief but also is highly symbolic of the party holding power at the time. Belinda’s best friend, Hazel Whitby, is her usual sexy self and uses those romantic ploys to distract doormen and the like while Belinda goes sleuthing. There’s a talkative Major, some antique dealers, a professor and more who all seem innocent with their words but whose body language belies their supposed disinterest in finding this treasure and historical artifact.
Brad is not the only one who will die and even Mark Sallinger comes under the radar as a suspicious “person of interest,” who was determined that Brad would never enter Belinda’s life again beyond that of an acquaintance. No, you can’t figure out “who done it” no matter how you try as Brian Kavanagh knows how to throw wrenches into the plot exactly when one thinks the mystery is about to be solved. It also seems there’s a historical party war going on that is pitting democracy against a more socialist leaning reminiscent of fascist governments ruling before, during and after WWII. Belinda’s life will be seriously threatened before the mystery is solved and the ending is quite shocking and not even close to what the reader thinks will solve the political and criminal mystery!
Each novel by Brian Kavanagh gets better and better, but A Wicked Design… is certainly the best of all his works. Intense, complex plots with unpredictable characters interact so that the reader will have to read this novel in one or two sittings, as it’s very, very hard to put down once it’s started. There’s also a nice touch of history and its symbolic value in government that’s informative and intriguing as well!
All in all - very nicely done, Brian Kavanagh!
At the funeral Belinda is convinced something is odd about this death. Brad’s brother, a Socialist fanatic, says he’s sad about his death but at the same time says there wasn’t much love lost between them, citing “materialism” as the reason for his dislike of his brother. Then there are other guests who are obviously important politicians. It turns out that Brad was working on a special project for the city’s Parliament House and had found something worth a fortune that was to be part of the new Dome on the building. Now, he’s gone, however, there are many, many people interested in finding out what he found in order to profit from it in various ways.
The treasure Brad found has not only monetary value beyond belief but also is highly symbolic of the party holding power at the time. Belinda’s best friend, Hazel Whitby, is her usual sexy self and uses those romantic ploys to distract doormen and the like while Belinda goes sleuthing. There’s a talkative Major, some antique dealers, a professor and more who all seem innocent with their words but whose body language belies their supposed disinterest in finding this treasure and historical artifact.
Brad is not the only one who will die and even Mark Sallinger comes under the radar as a suspicious “person of interest,” who was determined that Brad would never enter Belinda’s life again beyond that of an acquaintance. No, you can’t figure out “who done it” no matter how you try as Brian Kavanagh knows how to throw wrenches into the plot exactly when one thinks the mystery is about to be solved. It also seems there’s a historical party war going on that is pitting democracy against a more socialist leaning reminiscent of fascist governments ruling before, during and after WWII. Belinda’s life will be seriously threatened before the mystery is solved and the ending is quite shocking and not even close to what the reader thinks will solve the political and criminal mystery!
Each novel by Brian Kavanagh gets better and better, but A Wicked Design… is certainly the best of all his works. Intense, complex plots with unpredictable characters interact so that the reader will have to read this novel in one or two sittings, as it’s very, very hard to put down once it’s started. There’s also a nice touch of history and its symbolic value in government that’s informative and intriguing as well!
All in all - very nicely done, Brian Kavanagh!
October 21, 2013
The fifth adventure with Belinda Lawrence was well worth the wait. This story takes place in Australia and brings with it a sense of adventure and suspense. From the insidious hook at the beginning to the solution of the mystery one is treated to a rare visit to Melbourne and some of it's most interesting sites. A delightful tale with a vacation into the mix. I sincerely recommend this book for anyone who would like to spend some time following a bit of history in a fresh arena.
September 27, 2013
Antique dealer and amateur crime solvers, Belinda Lawrence and Hazel Whitby are taking a journey to Belinda's childhood home, Melbourne, Australia, in this fifth novel of the 'Belinda Lawrence Mystery' series. Hazel is planning a detour to Singapore and then the two will meet up at Belinda's parents home.
Hazel departs and just prior Belinda's turn, a life-altering telephone call arrives. 'He's dead!' is the shocking message. How? Why? All Belinda's mother knew was who, where and when and the conditions put forth in the newspaper.
Shocked, but determined, Belinda continues with her travel plans. The beauty and architectural changes of her home city is lost upon the grief stricken woman. To add to the mystery, Belinda receives a couriered package containing a small pamphlet and key ring with keys at her parent's home.
Trying to make contact with the victim's family, Belinda is immersed into the new civil war between the Roundheads and Cavaliers. What has a proposed Dome being added to the House of Parliament have to do with the victim? Who are the strange mourners at the funeral and what are their connection to the deceased? Encountering retired music hall entertainers, colourful antique dealers, a gregarious Major, and more has Belinda and Hazel twirling. The most alarming? What is Belinda's fiancé, Mark Sallinger involvement?
This novel's storyline was complex and filled with surprises for the reader. As the Author wove the plot through the city of Melbourne, we were treated with a travel tour of the architectural highlights such as the 'State Parliament House' and 'Spring Street', and 'St. Patrick's Cathedral.' I found the tale compelling, the mystery fulfilling, and the 'city' delightful. This series continues to improve with each new story. I look forward to the next installment. These books are novella length. This novel was gifted to me by the Author.
Hazel departs and just prior Belinda's turn, a life-altering telephone call arrives. 'He's dead!' is the shocking message. How? Why? All Belinda's mother knew was who, where and when and the conditions put forth in the newspaper.
Shocked, but determined, Belinda continues with her travel plans. The beauty and architectural changes of her home city is lost upon the grief stricken woman. To add to the mystery, Belinda receives a couriered package containing a small pamphlet and key ring with keys at her parent's home.
Trying to make contact with the victim's family, Belinda is immersed into the new civil war between the Roundheads and Cavaliers. What has a proposed Dome being added to the House of Parliament have to do with the victim? Who are the strange mourners at the funeral and what are their connection to the deceased? Encountering retired music hall entertainers, colourful antique dealers, a gregarious Major, and more has Belinda and Hazel twirling. The most alarming? What is Belinda's fiancé, Mark Sallinger involvement?
This novel's storyline was complex and filled with surprises for the reader. As the Author wove the plot through the city of Melbourne, we were treated with a travel tour of the architectural highlights such as the 'State Parliament House' and 'Spring Street', and 'St. Patrick's Cathedral.' I found the tale compelling, the mystery fulfilling, and the 'city' delightful. This series continues to improve with each new story. I look forward to the next installment. These books are novella length. This novel was gifted to me by the Author.
May 23, 2016
Belinda Lawrence receives horrible news from her hometown in Melbourne, Australia. A former boyfriend has been murdered and Belinda’s heart is broken. She still cares about him, although she is currently in another relationship and soon to be married. She goes home for the funeral. Her best friend and business partner, Hazel Whitby, goes along to support Belinda.
Hazel and Belinda can’t sit quietly by as the murder goes unsolved. It’s too close to her heart for Belinda to allow that to happen, so the women conduct their own investigation. Their investigation takes them in directions they never expected – from jealousy to betrayal to politics. Everyone becomes a suspect in this one, including the current man in Belinda’s life.
This is the fifth book in the Belinda Lawrence series and the author has outdone himself with this one. With each book Belinda becomes stronger and more developed as a character. Hazel is humorous and the perfect ally for Belinda. The two of them together should not be underestimated. They are strong, smart and relentless in their pursuit of the truth. Okay, they do take some unnecessary risks but that’s all part of the amateur sleuth package.
The storyline is intricately woven with historical events. There were a number of possible suspects, each with their own motive for murder. It’s an engrossing, fast-paced read that keeps you guessing until the end. This series remind me very much of the classic Agatha Christie mysteries, way before mysteries were classified as “cozies”. Brian Kavanagh writes this genre to perfection.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Hazel and Belinda can’t sit quietly by as the murder goes unsolved. It’s too close to her heart for Belinda to allow that to happen, so the women conduct their own investigation. Their investigation takes them in directions they never expected – from jealousy to betrayal to politics. Everyone becomes a suspect in this one, including the current man in Belinda’s life.
This is the fifth book in the Belinda Lawrence series and the author has outdone himself with this one. With each book Belinda becomes stronger and more developed as a character. Hazel is humorous and the perfect ally for Belinda. The two of them together should not be underestimated. They are strong, smart and relentless in their pursuit of the truth. Okay, they do take some unnecessary risks but that’s all part of the amateur sleuth package.
The storyline is intricately woven with historical events. There were a number of possible suspects, each with their own motive for murder. It’s an engrossing, fast-paced read that keeps you guessing until the end. This series remind me very much of the classic Agatha Christie mysteries, way before mysteries were classified as “cozies”. Brian Kavanagh writes this genre to perfection.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 21, 2013
A WICKED DESIGN is the fifth novel in the series that centres on Australian amateur sleuth Belinda Lawrence. This book sees Belinda temporarily leaving her home and antiques business in England and flying to her family home in Melbourne, Australia. What was going to be a quick trip back to tell ex-boyfriend Brad personally that she is going to marry Mark turns into a murder investigation – Brad’s. Brad, an architect of some renown, had been found dead in a local river, with his hands tied behind his back, and stones on his body to weigh him down – not an accidental death. Mark was working on a special project for Melbourne’s Parliament House, and it would appear he had found a treasure of political importance, a treasure that people were prepared to kill in order to get their hands on it. Ably assisted by her friend and business partner Hazel Whitby Belinda decides to look into the death. Trouble is there are quite a few suspects including Belinda’s fiancé Mark.
I enjoy Brian Kavanagh’s books – each one is well-written with believable plots, historical facts, suspense and humour. In fact Brian’s talent is being able to skilfully weave true history, legend and fiction into one story. In A WICKED DESIGN the elements of the English Civil War between the Roundheads and Cavaliers has been brought to Australia. Trouble is how does it connect to Brad’s murder? And will being a suspect affect the relationship between Belinda and Mark? And will the wonderfully uninhibited Hazel ever settle down – and do we want her too? More murders occur before all is eventually revealed in an unexpectedly hot finale in a beautiful setting.
I enjoy Brian Kavanagh’s books – each one is well-written with believable plots, historical facts, suspense and humour. In fact Brian’s talent is being able to skilfully weave true history, legend and fiction into one story. In A WICKED DESIGN the elements of the English Civil War between the Roundheads and Cavaliers has been brought to Australia. Trouble is how does it connect to Brad’s murder? And will being a suspect affect the relationship between Belinda and Mark? And will the wonderfully uninhibited Hazel ever settle down – and do we want her too? More murders occur before all is eventually revealed in an unexpectedly hot finale in a beautiful setting.
October 26, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. Set in Melbourne it was nice to read of familiar streets, suburbs etc. I could hear & smells the scenes described.
April 18, 2015
I won this through Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.
July 24, 2019
A Wicked Design by Brian Kavanagh is the fifth book in his Belinda Lawrence Murder Mystery series and it is the most INTENSE one so far !!! I have been a devoted fan since I read the first book in this series Capable of Murder. I have grown to love Belinda and her sidekick Hazel and have loved watching their relationship take shape. And I have grown to love Belinda's relationship with Lord Mark Sallinger and was very happy when they decided to get engaged !!!
However everything changes with A Wicked Design !!! That relationship between Belinda and Mark is challenged when Belinda's old boyfriend is murdered right before Belinda returns to her hometown to tell him face to face that it was definitely over and she was in love with Mark and planning to marry him. And when Kavanagh "teases" the reader into thinking Mark may have killed Brad, the reader is going to want to speed read to the end to find out the outcome.....
Sadly Brad is not the only one to come to such a brutal end....when more people are found murdered and Mark is unreachable by phone and not answering Belinda's calls or text, what is one to think ? Well Belinda and Hazel try to keep open minds as they try to find out who killed Brad and the others and why.
Kavanagh will capture the readers attention immediately and you will not want to put the book down until you reach the end and know the truth behind the murders and especially Brad's. One cannot help but feel for Belinda as she tries to bring Brad's killer to justice and prove Mark's innocence and as always Hazel is there to help lighten the mood !!!
However everything changes with A Wicked Design !!! That relationship between Belinda and Mark is challenged when Belinda's old boyfriend is murdered right before Belinda returns to her hometown to tell him face to face that it was definitely over and she was in love with Mark and planning to marry him. And when Kavanagh "teases" the reader into thinking Mark may have killed Brad, the reader is going to want to speed read to the end to find out the outcome.....
Sadly Brad is not the only one to come to such a brutal end....when more people are found murdered and Mark is unreachable by phone and not answering Belinda's calls or text, what is one to think ? Well Belinda and Hazel try to keep open minds as they try to find out who killed Brad and the others and why.
Kavanagh will capture the readers attention immediately and you will not want to put the book down until you reach the end and know the truth behind the murders and especially Brad's. One cannot help but feel for Belinda as she tries to bring Brad's killer to justice and prove Mark's innocence and as always Hazel is there to help lighten the mood !!!
February 1, 2019
Another great read
Without giving anything away, I was totally wrong in who I thought the killer was. Such a great story. Every body should read this series.
Without giving anything away, I was totally wrong in who I thought the killer was. Such a great story. Every body should read this series.
March 25, 2014
I wish there were 6 stars. This book was a touch above average but not excellent. A regular who dunnit, with the frustrations for the reader, who wants to shake the central characters for being stupid. Don't think I'd ever read another in this series.
February 22, 2015
the writing was good and I like that its set in Melbourne, but that's about it. I didn't find it all that believable is where it falls short for me.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews