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Jack Harris #1
The Beacon
Jack Harris, the disgraced son of Australia's most powerful business tycoon, has just been exiled to Byron Bay as a junior journalist at his father's smallest regional newspaper, The Beacon. His arrival coincides with the disappearance of the newspaper's editor, Patrick O'Shaughnessy, while out on his morning surf. When Patrick's body is discovered in the ocean, with a severed leg, it appears certain that he's fallen victim to a shark attack.
But when rumours emerge that Patrick was about to publish an explosive article - its subject unknown - Jack begins to suspect his death is not what it seems.
Although police aren't buying his murder theory, Jack joins forces with Patrick's daughter and investigates anyway, taking a sometimes less than lawful dive into the newspaperman's past. Together they discover plenty of Byron locals with a motive to kill, including a bioholistic dentist with a secret, a naturist with an undisguised grudge, and even the mayor of Northern Rivers Shire. But has Jack bitten off more than he can chew?
Immensely entertaining, The Beacon is a murder mystery with a difference, bursting with humour, local colour, memorable characters and page-turning action.
But when rumours emerge that Patrick was about to publish an explosive article - its subject unknown - Jack begins to suspect his death is not what it seems.
Although police aren't buying his murder theory, Jack joins forces with Patrick's daughter and investigates anyway, taking a sometimes less than lawful dive into the newspaperman's past. Together they discover plenty of Byron locals with a motive to kill, including a bioholistic dentist with a secret, a naturist with an undisguised grudge, and even the mayor of Northern Rivers Shire. But has Jack bitten off more than he can chew?
Immensely entertaining, The Beacon is a murder mystery with a difference, bursting with humour, local colour, memorable characters and page-turning action.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2024
22 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
April 13, 2024
For most, Byron Bay is the place to go to relax, take it easy and unhitch from the hustle and bustle of the real world. It’s the holiday destination of just about the rest of the world, so when Jack Harris finds himself demoted from his executive job in Melbourne by his father and sent to the town, he could hardly predict the mystery he was walking into. But that’s where he finds himself in The Beacon, the debut thriller by Byron local P.A. Thomas. This mystery captures the essence of Byron and its surrounds while also delivering an intriguing investigation featuring some very interesting characters.
Jack has been demoted from his executive job in Melbourne to work at The Beacon, the local newspaper in Byron Bay and he’s supposed to report to Patrick O’Shaughnessy. But when he arrives at the office, there’s no Patrick to be found and his daughter, Caitlin, is holding down the fort but is mighty pissed about her derelict dad.
But there’s a good reason for Patrick’s no-show at the office. First, his surfboard is found floating in the ocean and later, his body makes an appearance, also floating in the ocean. Both board and body appeared to have been savaged by a shark.
It’s the worst possible news, but when Caitlin confides to Jack that her father had been acting jumpy lately, working on a story he was certain would land him a Walkley award and that he’d recently taken out life insurance he becomes a little alarmed. Then, upon seeing the surfboard and O’Shaughnessy’s body, there are aspects that don’t add up to a shark attack.
From a few small glimmers of misgivings on the part of Caitlin and Jack grows quite the convoluted web of deceit, misappropriated money and misuse of power. But, of course, it’s also mostly about the money and when a great deal of money’s involved thrown around by people with a helluva lot of power, the result is the people doing the uncovering are suddenly at risk.
Jack takes up his role as investigative reporter with aplomb and chooses to poke a few people to see if he can ruffle some feathers. He’s hardly prepared for the scale of the reaction he gets, or the direction from which it comes. The problem is, of course, if Patrick was murdered there’s no telling the lengths people will go to protect their secret. However, we soon get a pretty clear idea.
The Beacon is a solid thriller that unfolds in a neat, linear fashion. The focus remains primarily on Jack as he follows a logical path with his investigation. Consequently, we know as much as he does when it comes to who the bad guys are and who he feels he can trust. This double-edged sword means that we’re kept in the dark for a large proportion of the operation but it definitely helps to build the intrigue and sharpens up the tension levels.
I was consistently entertained throughout the story and enjoyed the developing relationship between Jack and Caitlin, as awkward as it was at times. The infrequent appearances of Ricky, Jack’s former school friend with gangland connections, are a highlight and manages to inject a spark into every scene he inhabits. There’s a lot of truth to the exhortation that ‘everyone needs a Ricky’.
The inspirational setting of Byron Bay, the fear-inducing possible shark attack and the looming shapeless menace of shapeless figures combine to make this a tightly plotted, multi-dimensioned thriller.
My thanks to Bonnier Echo via NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC that allowed me to read, enjoy and review this book.
Jack has been demoted from his executive job in Melbourne to work at The Beacon, the local newspaper in Byron Bay and he’s supposed to report to Patrick O’Shaughnessy. But when he arrives at the office, there’s no Patrick to be found and his daughter, Caitlin, is holding down the fort but is mighty pissed about her derelict dad.
But there’s a good reason for Patrick’s no-show at the office. First, his surfboard is found floating in the ocean and later, his body makes an appearance, also floating in the ocean. Both board and body appeared to have been savaged by a shark.
It’s the worst possible news, but when Caitlin confides to Jack that her father had been acting jumpy lately, working on a story he was certain would land him a Walkley award and that he’d recently taken out life insurance he becomes a little alarmed. Then, upon seeing the surfboard and O’Shaughnessy’s body, there are aspects that don’t add up to a shark attack.
From a few small glimmers of misgivings on the part of Caitlin and Jack grows quite the convoluted web of deceit, misappropriated money and misuse of power. But, of course, it’s also mostly about the money and when a great deal of money’s involved thrown around by people with a helluva lot of power, the result is the people doing the uncovering are suddenly at risk.
Jack takes up his role as investigative reporter with aplomb and chooses to poke a few people to see if he can ruffle some feathers. He’s hardly prepared for the scale of the reaction he gets, or the direction from which it comes. The problem is, of course, if Patrick was murdered there’s no telling the lengths people will go to protect their secret. However, we soon get a pretty clear idea.
The Beacon is a solid thriller that unfolds in a neat, linear fashion. The focus remains primarily on Jack as he follows a logical path with his investigation. Consequently, we know as much as he does when it comes to who the bad guys are and who he feels he can trust. This double-edged sword means that we’re kept in the dark for a large proportion of the operation but it definitely helps to build the intrigue and sharpens up the tension levels.
I was consistently entertained throughout the story and enjoyed the developing relationship between Jack and Caitlin, as awkward as it was at times. The infrequent appearances of Ricky, Jack’s former school friend with gangland connections, are a highlight and manages to inject a spark into every scene he inhabits. There’s a lot of truth to the exhortation that ‘everyone needs a Ricky’.
The inspirational setting of Byron Bay, the fear-inducing possible shark attack and the looming shapeless menace of shapeless figures combine to make this a tightly plotted, multi-dimensioned thriller.
My thanks to Bonnier Echo via NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC that allowed me to read, enjoy and review this book.
August 14, 2025
If you love a fast paced book with a great ending you may very well like this book.
What attracted me to this book was the setting in Byron Bay and the fact it involved surfing.
I loved the fact it had humor in it , and the mention of holistic health.
This is a book about corruption , conspiracy theories and secrets.
What attracted me to this book was the setting in Byron Bay and the fact it involved surfing.
I loved the fact it had humor in it , and the mention of holistic health.
This is a book about corruption , conspiracy theories and secrets.
May 2, 2024
This book had it all, and my favourite part was that I am so familiar with the Byron Bay landscape that I actually knew where the characters were from P. A. Thomas’ awesome descriptions. The lead characters are really likable and the plot was intricate without being too convoluted. This was a really well thought out and executed Aussie thriller and I enjoyed every second of it.
January 25, 2024
Impressive Australian thriller set in of Byron Bay!
Jack Harris, son to Media Magnate Malcolm (ring any bells? Can’t help but see a sly reference to a real Australian Media Magnate) has been sent back to the town he grew up in to work on his father’s first newspaper, The Beacon. His father’s decided Jack needs to learn to be a journalist from the ground up, with one of the best, Patrick O’Shaughnessy. Up until now Jack’s been in Melbourne helping his father run his business conglomerate. Jack had been running the Harris Media portfolio. He’d also tentatively voiced opinions about ethical journalism. Now here he’s back in Byron Bay about to work in a regional newspaper as the lowest ranking hack. (Byron Bay is the easternmost point on the Australian coastline. Another interesting fact, the lighthouse is the most powerful in Australia!)
What Jack doesn’t count on is Patrick being found dead, mauled by a great white shark. Except there’s something off about Patrick’s surfboard that Jack can’t quite figure out.
What he does find out is that the Walkley Award journalist Patrick had been working on something big, explosive! Patrick’s computer is missing, replaced by another. His house has been searched.
Jack finds himself joining forces with Patrick’s daughter Caitlin. It becomes clear that someone wants Jack to stop his investigation about Patrick’s death and what he was working on.
Tight writing, the build up of intrigue, the setting in one of Australia’s best known and loved 70’s hippie/surfing spots, all combine for a winning read!
An Echo ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Jack Harris, son to Media Magnate Malcolm (ring any bells? Can’t help but see a sly reference to a real Australian Media Magnate) has been sent back to the town he grew up in to work on his father’s first newspaper, The Beacon. His father’s decided Jack needs to learn to be a journalist from the ground up, with one of the best, Patrick O’Shaughnessy. Up until now Jack’s been in Melbourne helping his father run his business conglomerate. Jack had been running the Harris Media portfolio. He’d also tentatively voiced opinions about ethical journalism. Now here he’s back in Byron Bay about to work in a regional newspaper as the lowest ranking hack. (Byron Bay is the easternmost point on the Australian coastline. Another interesting fact, the lighthouse is the most powerful in Australia!)
What Jack doesn’t count on is Patrick being found dead, mauled by a great white shark. Except there’s something off about Patrick’s surfboard that Jack can’t quite figure out.
What he does find out is that the Walkley Award journalist Patrick had been working on something big, explosive! Patrick’s computer is missing, replaced by another. His house has been searched.
Jack finds himself joining forces with Patrick’s daughter Caitlin. It becomes clear that someone wants Jack to stop his investigation about Patrick’s death and what he was working on.
Tight writing, the build up of intrigue, the setting in one of Australia’s best known and loved 70’s hippie/surfing spots, all combine for a winning read!
An Echo ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
March 2, 2024
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The Beacon is such an entertaining page-turner. Set in the beach-side town of Byron Bay. P. A. Thomas cleverly portrays Byron's beauty and its flaws. Showcasing Bryon's eclectic and diverse cast of residents and their relationship with the missing reporter.
Thomas includes lots of fun banter, a main protagonist who can be a bit naive at times and a compelling mystery that kept me intrigued with plenty of twists and numerous antagonists. I was eager to see how the story would end.
Jack is the type of character you will find hard to let go of. He's honest, funny and a bit naive at times. He gets himself in and out of plenty of sticky situations. I closed the book hoping we would be seeing more of Jack Harris in the future.
The Beacon is such an entertaining page-turner. Set in the beach-side town of Byron Bay. P. A. Thomas cleverly portrays Byron's beauty and its flaws. Showcasing Bryon's eclectic and diverse cast of residents and their relationship with the missing reporter.
Thomas includes lots of fun banter, a main protagonist who can be a bit naive at times and a compelling mystery that kept me intrigued with plenty of twists and numerous antagonists. I was eager to see how the story would end.
Jack is the type of character you will find hard to let go of. He's honest, funny and a bit naive at times. He gets himself in and out of plenty of sticky situations. I closed the book hoping we would be seeing more of Jack Harris in the future.
September 9, 2025
Fun to read something set in Byron Bay while out visiting Australia. Maybe more of a 3.5 stars as I felt some of the characters were a bit hollow or unconvincing but I enjoyed the change of pace and the storyline. Was an easy read so I’m glad I picked it up!
October 21, 2024
This was a solid murder mystery, really enjoyed it from start to finish. As someone living in the Northern Rivers it was great to read a story set near my hometown. Kudos to PA Thomas for a brilliant debut novel.
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March 22, 2024https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
There's potential here for the start of a very interesting new series - Jack Harris has all the makings of a very good investigative reporter, and Caitlin O'Shaughnessy would be a very able partner in pursuit.
There's potential here for the start of a very interesting new series - Jack Harris has all the makings of a very good investigative reporter, and Caitlin O'Shaughnessy would be a very able partner in pursuit.
March 2, 2024
Set in Byron Bay in Australia, The Beacon is an entertaining read and a great page-turner.
It also makes you want to jump on a plane and go for a visit, or better yet, an extended stay. I love books that turn a place into an entity, someone that lives on the peripheral vision of everything that is going on, colouring the way you see the characters, it's like a little mini holiday, sometimes a hellish one, sometimes heavenly. This one has the sea, that my heart longs for constantly, with beautiful descriptions of early morning surfing, waiting for the sunrise over the waves. Memories of childhood.
Anyway, I digress. Byron Bay is a sleepy seaside spot where most people go to catch some sun and enjoy the beach, but Jack has been sent there as an exiled son, ostensibly to take over the first-ever newspaper his media mogul father published. It's a far cry from the high city life he's used to, and he knows it's a punishment of sorts.
As it turns out, it was the best thing his wolf-in-sheep's clothing father could have done, because the repercussions are momentous. There's a feisty skate-boarding gal and a cool Irish editor (who unfortunately doesn't survive long enough to get to know, but long enough to know that you wanted to get to know him if that makes sense). A crusty and cantankerous police chief who grows on you. And a few thugs thrown in for luck.
And then there's Ricky. As Jack says, everyone needs a Ricky, and ain't that the truth, I know I need a Ricky. I'm not sure I liked the ending, but that's merely window dressing, it's probably because I'm a hopeless romantic.
4 sparkling stars.
It also makes you want to jump on a plane and go for a visit, or better yet, an extended stay. I love books that turn a place into an entity, someone that lives on the peripheral vision of everything that is going on, colouring the way you see the characters, it's like a little mini holiday, sometimes a hellish one, sometimes heavenly. This one has the sea, that my heart longs for constantly, with beautiful descriptions of early morning surfing, waiting for the sunrise over the waves. Memories of childhood.
Anyway, I digress. Byron Bay is a sleepy seaside spot where most people go to catch some sun and enjoy the beach, but Jack has been sent there as an exiled son, ostensibly to take over the first-ever newspaper his media mogul father published. It's a far cry from the high city life he's used to, and he knows it's a punishment of sorts.
As it turns out, it was the best thing his wolf-in-sheep's clothing father could have done, because the repercussions are momentous. There's a feisty skate-boarding gal and a cool Irish editor (who unfortunately doesn't survive long enough to get to know, but long enough to know that you wanted to get to know him if that makes sense). A crusty and cantankerous police chief who grows on you. And a few thugs thrown in for luck.
And then there's Ricky. As Jack says, everyone needs a Ricky, and ain't that the truth, I know I need a Ricky. I'm not sure I liked the ending, but that's merely window dressing, it's probably because I'm a hopeless romantic.
4 sparkling stars.
January 12, 2025
Byron Bay is a brilliant setting in this fabulous debut crime novel. The seductive Aussie seaside town comes alive, with its iconic lighthouse set atop the sheer cliff, the turquoise water below brimming with dolphins and whales, the buskers and boutiques, the millionaire’s enclaves and the surf shacks, and the awesome pub with beer garden views of the Pacific Ocean through the Norfolk pines.
But there’s danger in paradise, lurking beneath the shimmering surface.
Editor of the local newspaper The Beacon, Patrick O’Shaughnessy, disappears while going for an early morning surf. His body is found with a severed leg. Police think it’s a shark attack, which is plausible in this area. However, Patrick was working on a controversial story and his daughter Caitlin – a skateboarding lawyer with ginger dreadlocks and a large Betty Boop tattoo – and newly arrived rookie journalist Jack Harris suspect foul play. Jack is a great protagonist, someone I really enjoyed spending time with. The son of the powerful newspaper owner, he conducts an imperfect investigation, with many funny situations, including him annoying the police chief and other local identities.
This is a fast-paced, action packed ‘cosy crime’, with humour and an eclectic, recognisable cast of Byron Bay characters. Bryon is a fascinating microcosm of Australia, a place infamous for its skyrocketing real estate, where rock stars wander alongside tourists, people hang out in parks smoking pot or doing yoga, and sea-changers, hippies, and families who have lived there for generations reside closely together. Consequently this is a novel about money, power, greed and grudges. Like many memorable crime novels, the crime is a compelling catalyst which carries the reader through what becomes the real power of the story: the setting. John Grisham writes about tension in small towns in the Deep South; Garry Disher does the same with the Mornington Peninsula; Tana French examines class and conflict in Irish villages; and, similarly, in an upbeat, warm style, Brisbane author PA Thomas cleverly peels back the gritty layers of an over-loved, magnificent coastal paradise.
But there’s danger in paradise, lurking beneath the shimmering surface.
Editor of the local newspaper The Beacon, Patrick O’Shaughnessy, disappears while going for an early morning surf. His body is found with a severed leg. Police think it’s a shark attack, which is plausible in this area. However, Patrick was working on a controversial story and his daughter Caitlin – a skateboarding lawyer with ginger dreadlocks and a large Betty Boop tattoo – and newly arrived rookie journalist Jack Harris suspect foul play. Jack is a great protagonist, someone I really enjoyed spending time with. The son of the powerful newspaper owner, he conducts an imperfect investigation, with many funny situations, including him annoying the police chief and other local identities.
This is a fast-paced, action packed ‘cosy crime’, with humour and an eclectic, recognisable cast of Byron Bay characters. Bryon is a fascinating microcosm of Australia, a place infamous for its skyrocketing real estate, where rock stars wander alongside tourists, people hang out in parks smoking pot or doing yoga, and sea-changers, hippies, and families who have lived there for generations reside closely together. Consequently this is a novel about money, power, greed and grudges. Like many memorable crime novels, the crime is a compelling catalyst which carries the reader through what becomes the real power of the story: the setting. John Grisham writes about tension in small towns in the Deep South; Garry Disher does the same with the Mornington Peninsula; Tana French examines class and conflict in Irish villages; and, similarly, in an upbeat, warm style, Brisbane author PA Thomas cleverly peels back the gritty layers of an over-loved, magnificent coastal paradise.
May 9, 2024
I wanted to know what happened, I was intrigued but it wasn’t very thrilling, at little boring at times like I didn’t want to pick it up every second of the day. Glad I finished it. Lots of holes in the story and very stereotypical characters. But I really like the main character.
April 21, 2024
PA Thomas writes an Aussie crime mystery novel set in the beautiful location of Byron Bay which I listened to on audio, approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes long, ably narrated by Jamie Oxenbould, who kept me listening from beginning to end, even when the story had its weak points, such as the times it was overly simplistic, and the occasions when you have to suspend your sense of disbelief. 35 year old Jack Harris, is the son of billionaire, Malcolm, who has pushed him out of his posting in Melbourne with Harris Media, sending him to Byron Bay, to learn to be a journalist at The Beacon paper where his father began his career. He is hoping to see and carry out more ethical journalism under the experienced editor, Patrick O'Shaughnessy, than the family's other media outlets.
Jack arrives at the locked building in the morning, nursing a terrible hangover, which is where he first encounters Patrick's daughter, Caitlin, on her skateboard, a lawyer with dreadlocks, who has been suspended from her high powered job as a lawyer. It is Caitlin's birthday and she is unable to get through to her father. Tragically Patrick's surfboard with its shark bite has been found, and the worst turns out to be true. However, Jack has suspicions which has him and Caitlin investigating, the beginning of all his troubles as he looks into all those who might have a grudge against Patrick, who had taken strong measures to protect himself and Caitlin as he was researching and writing an explosive exclusive, a story that goes back to 1967, but what is it?
Jack picks up a host of bruises and injuries, as ruthless and powerful forces target him, he becomes the prime murder suspect in this exciting thriller in which he is aided by his good friend and partner in crime, Ricky Martinelli, everyone should have a Ricky in their life! However, Jack spends too much of his time being incredibly naive and blind to what is blatantly staring him in the face. There is plenty to enjoy in this crime mystery and if it is a series, although this was a mixed bag, I will definitely read the next one. I think many readers who love Aussie crime and mystery will love this, and I can definitely recommend the audio. Many thanks to Wavesound from WF Howes Ltd for an ALC.
Jack arrives at the locked building in the morning, nursing a terrible hangover, which is where he first encounters Patrick's daughter, Caitlin, on her skateboard, a lawyer with dreadlocks, who has been suspended from her high powered job as a lawyer. It is Caitlin's birthday and she is unable to get through to her father. Tragically Patrick's surfboard with its shark bite has been found, and the worst turns out to be true. However, Jack has suspicions which has him and Caitlin investigating, the beginning of all his troubles as he looks into all those who might have a grudge against Patrick, who had taken strong measures to protect himself and Caitlin as he was researching and writing an explosive exclusive, a story that goes back to 1967, but what is it?
Jack picks up a host of bruises and injuries, as ruthless and powerful forces target him, he becomes the prime murder suspect in this exciting thriller in which he is aided by his good friend and partner in crime, Ricky Martinelli, everyone should have a Ricky in their life! However, Jack spends too much of his time being incredibly naive and blind to what is blatantly staring him in the face. There is plenty to enjoy in this crime mystery and if it is a series, although this was a mixed bag, I will definitely read the next one. I think many readers who love Aussie crime and mystery will love this, and I can definitely recommend the audio. Many thanks to Wavesound from WF Howes Ltd for an ALC.
January 15, 2024
I would like to thank Netgalley and Echo Publishing for an advance copy of The Beacon, a stand-alone set in Byron Bay, New South Wales.
Jack Harris, son of publishing magnate Malcolm, is suddenly demoted from his executive position with the company and sent to Byron Bay to work as a journalist. He arrives at The Beacon’s premises to find the editor, Patrick O’Shaughnessy missing, presumed attacked by a shark while surfing. Jack isn’t so sure when he realises that Patrick was working on a big exposé. He works with Patrick’s daughter, Caitlin, to find both a murderer and the exposé.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Beacon, which is a fun read with plenty of action and some good twists. It held my attention throughout, mostly because, I think, it offers plenty of opportunity for speculation and not a lot of answers until the final chapters. I just wanted to know what was going on.
The novel is told mostly from Jack’s point of view with others contributing as and when required. There is no contribution from the bad guys, so no hint as to what they want or what they’re up to or even who they are. With the reader’s attention on Jack’s investigation and misadventures it makes for an immersive read. The investigation builds slowly as Jack and Caitlin look for Patrick’s research, but that’s doesn’t make the novel slow as Jack seems like a trouble magnet. If he’s not tangling with the local police he’s having some awkward encounters with the locals, losing his job or getting arrested. There is a sense of powerful forces at work and a great sense of satisfaction when they are beaten.
Jack is a fun guy. He comes from wealth, which has cushioned him from some parts of life and he can be naive. He is also smart and does most of the thinking on the investigation. His encounters with the murder detectives are funny as he runs rings round them. Caitlin is the stroppy one. She’s feisty even without her grief, but there are reasons for it unfortunately.
The Beacon is a fun read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Jack Harris, son of publishing magnate Malcolm, is suddenly demoted from his executive position with the company and sent to Byron Bay to work as a journalist. He arrives at The Beacon’s premises to find the editor, Patrick O’Shaughnessy missing, presumed attacked by a shark while surfing. Jack isn’t so sure when he realises that Patrick was working on a big exposé. He works with Patrick’s daughter, Caitlin, to find both a murderer and the exposé.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Beacon, which is a fun read with plenty of action and some good twists. It held my attention throughout, mostly because, I think, it offers plenty of opportunity for speculation and not a lot of answers until the final chapters. I just wanted to know what was going on.
The novel is told mostly from Jack’s point of view with others contributing as and when required. There is no contribution from the bad guys, so no hint as to what they want or what they’re up to or even who they are. With the reader’s attention on Jack’s investigation and misadventures it makes for an immersive read. The investigation builds slowly as Jack and Caitlin look for Patrick’s research, but that’s doesn’t make the novel slow as Jack seems like a trouble magnet. If he’s not tangling with the local police he’s having some awkward encounters with the locals, losing his job or getting arrested. There is a sense of powerful forces at work and a great sense of satisfaction when they are beaten.
Jack is a fun guy. He comes from wealth, which has cushioned him from some parts of life and he can be naive. He is also smart and does most of the thinking on the investigation. His encounters with the murder detectives are funny as he runs rings round them. Caitlin is the stroppy one. She’s feisty even without her grief, but there are reasons for it unfortunately.
The Beacon is a fun read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
September 13, 2025
The Beacon by P. A. Thomas
Back in July, I purchased The Sunbaker by P.A.Thomas on impulse when I was visiting the new Readings in Chadstone. I picked it up because the cover art was interesting, and when I turned it over and read the blurb, it sounded like it'd be a lot of fun. Last week, it finally made it to the top of my TBR pile, and when I started reading it, I realised it was the second book in a series. So, I quickly downloaded the audiobook of the first book in the series (The Beacon) and fast-tracked it to the top of my list.
The Beacon opens with a shark attack coinciding with the arrival in town of Jack, who has arrived to work as a journalist at Byron Bay's regional newspaper. Rumours emerge that Patrick (the shark attack victim) was about to publish a top-secret exposé, and Jack begins to suspect his death was less Jaws and more All the President's Men.
Jack joins forces with Patrick's daughter, Caitlin and together they investigate, coming up with plenty of locals with a motive to kill, including the local holistic dentist, a nudist and even the mayor. The Beacon is a fun murder mystery which got quite twisty. There are plenty of unlikeable characters, but the main characters are warm and likeable.
I'm looking forward to the second book.
Body count = 2. Maybe.
@readingsbooks #readingsbooks #booksdeevaareads #2025bookshelf #deevaasbookshelf #booknerd #CreativeLife #goreadabook #allthebooks #Bookstagram #DesignInspiration #newrelease #Designer #murdermystery #kindacosy #AussieAuthor #AustralianAuthor #GraphicDesign #DesignNerd #designdeevaa #Bookstagram #TBRList #Bookish
Back in July, I purchased The Sunbaker by P.A.Thomas on impulse when I was visiting the new Readings in Chadstone. I picked it up because the cover art was interesting, and when I turned it over and read the blurb, it sounded like it'd be a lot of fun. Last week, it finally made it to the top of my TBR pile, and when I started reading it, I realised it was the second book in a series. So, I quickly downloaded the audiobook of the first book in the series (The Beacon) and fast-tracked it to the top of my list.
The Beacon opens with a shark attack coinciding with the arrival in town of Jack, who has arrived to work as a journalist at Byron Bay's regional newspaper. Rumours emerge that Patrick (the shark attack victim) was about to publish a top-secret exposé, and Jack begins to suspect his death was less Jaws and more All the President's Men.
Jack joins forces with Patrick's daughter, Caitlin and together they investigate, coming up with plenty of locals with a motive to kill, including the local holistic dentist, a nudist and even the mayor. The Beacon is a fun murder mystery which got quite twisty. There are plenty of unlikeable characters, but the main characters are warm and likeable.
I'm looking forward to the second book.
Body count = 2. Maybe.
@readingsbooks #readingsbooks #booksdeevaareads #2025bookshelf #deevaasbookshelf #booknerd #CreativeLife #goreadabook #allthebooks #Bookstagram #DesignInspiration #newrelease #Designer #murdermystery #kindacosy #AussieAuthor #AustralianAuthor #GraphicDesign #DesignNerd #designdeevaa #Bookstagram #TBRList #Bookish
January 17, 2024
Synopsis: Jack Harris is the son of a business mogul who is not only his father but also his boss. When he displeases his father/boss he is demoted to junior journalist at his father’s smallest newspaper, The Beacon. When Jack arrives at Byron Bay, his first order of business is to introduce himself to the newspaper’s editor, Patrick O’Shaughnessy, however, he can’t locate him. Turns out Patrick went out surfing that morning as usual and became the victim of a shark attack. In the meantime, Jack learns from Patrick’s daughter that Patrick was working on a story that was explosive, but that he hadn’t shared any other information with her. Jack soon begins to wonder whether Patrick’s death is not as it is made to appear.
My thoughts: I really liked the concept of the storyline with respect to the regional newspaper, especially as so many newspapers are no longer publishing or have gone fully on-line. I also found the setting of Byron Bay (a real place in Australia) very interesting. I did a bit of research on it and discovered that it is Australia’s most expensive city but yet the population is only approx. 34,000. Apparently tv and film stars from the United States and Australia have a home here. As I said above, I think the storyline was interesting, however, I did find that it moved quite slowly and at times I was a bit bored during the first third of the book. I ended up giving it 3/5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and Echo Publishing for a review copy of this book.
My thoughts: I really liked the concept of the storyline with respect to the regional newspaper, especially as so many newspapers are no longer publishing or have gone fully on-line. I also found the setting of Byron Bay (a real place in Australia) very interesting. I did a bit of research on it and discovered that it is Australia’s most expensive city but yet the population is only approx. 34,000. Apparently tv and film stars from the United States and Australia have a home here. As I said above, I think the storyline was interesting, however, I did find that it moved quite slowly and at times I was a bit bored during the first third of the book. I ended up giving it 3/5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and Echo Publishing for a review copy of this book.
May 3, 2024
I downloaded this audiobook from NetGalley to listen to while doing some admin.
It was really enjoyable and reminded me of the sort of movie that seemed to be everywhere in the 1980s. The lead character, Jack, was very likeable, and seemed to have his head screwed on the right way, despite having grown up in a wealthy household with a difficult father.
I liked the set-up of his being moved by his Dad from corporate out to small-town Australia to take over one of the family-owned newspapers. As someone who has never been there, it was great to hear about a different place from Sydney, Melbourne and Perth (which are the locations that feature in TV shows and movies that stream most frequently here in the UK).
I also liked the level of danger - which, as I say, reminded me of 1980s films in which the hero is roughed up by people who, in real life, would leave him hospitalised for weeks. I’m the kind of cinema-goer and reader who prefers this kind of implied violence to anything more realistic. It’s enough to convince me the stakes are high, and it means the focus is on the mystery element of the thriller.
Finally, I liked the romance element - just enough without its dominating the plot or making Jack’s love interest (and also the daughter of the murder victim) come across as a prop. Caitlin was believable as a character in her own right, as was Zoe (the murder victim’s love interest).
All in all, a good not-too-violent thriller that kept me guessing. Would definitely recommend.
Three word review: shark attack cover-up 🦈
It was really enjoyable and reminded me of the sort of movie that seemed to be everywhere in the 1980s. The lead character, Jack, was very likeable, and seemed to have his head screwed on the right way, despite having grown up in a wealthy household with a difficult father.
I liked the set-up of his being moved by his Dad from corporate out to small-town Australia to take over one of the family-owned newspapers. As someone who has never been there, it was great to hear about a different place from Sydney, Melbourne and Perth (which are the locations that feature in TV shows and movies that stream most frequently here in the UK).
I also liked the level of danger - which, as I say, reminded me of 1980s films in which the hero is roughed up by people who, in real life, would leave him hospitalised for weeks. I’m the kind of cinema-goer and reader who prefers this kind of implied violence to anything more realistic. It’s enough to convince me the stakes are high, and it means the focus is on the mystery element of the thriller.
Finally, I liked the romance element - just enough without its dominating the plot or making Jack’s love interest (and also the daughter of the murder victim) come across as a prop. Caitlin was believable as a character in her own right, as was Zoe (the murder victim’s love interest).
All in all, a good not-too-violent thriller that kept me guessing. Would definitely recommend.
Three word review: shark attack cover-up 🦈
July 9, 2024
Solid crime thriller featuring a disgraced nepo baby and the daughter of a murdered news editor.
Jack Harris’s media tycoon father William demotes him then dispatches him to Byron Bay to learn journalism under the tutelage of The Beacon editor Patrick O’Shaunessy. But when Patrick is missing presumed dead, Jack and Patrick’s daughter, disgraced lawyer Caitlin find themselves trying to unravel what Patrick was working on that might’ve got him killed.
This book was a page turner though at times I honestly rolled my eyes at the stupid mistakes being made and some suspensions of disbelief. The guy has been murdered! Why are you not watching to see if you’re followed or take any precautions given how paranoid he was?! Pace wise some things also dragged a bit too long. I really enjoyed Jack and Caitlin, but while I liked them working together I actually thought the ending was perfect. I also loved Jack’s best friend Ricky, because we all need him. I’d love more, perhaps Jack in Melbourne for a contrast to beach Byron.
Jack Harris’s media tycoon father William demotes him then dispatches him to Byron Bay to learn journalism under the tutelage of The Beacon editor Patrick O’Shaunessy. But when Patrick is missing presumed dead, Jack and Patrick’s daughter, disgraced lawyer Caitlin find themselves trying to unravel what Patrick was working on that might’ve got him killed.
This book was a page turner though at times I honestly rolled my eyes at the stupid mistakes being made and some suspensions of disbelief. The guy has been murdered! Why are you not watching to see if you’re followed or take any precautions given how paranoid he was?! Pace wise some things also dragged a bit too long. I really enjoyed Jack and Caitlin, but while I liked them working together I actually thought the ending was perfect. I also loved Jack’s best friend Ricky, because we all need him. I’d love more, perhaps Jack in Melbourne for a contrast to beach Byron.
June 26, 2025
Set in Byron Bay, this debut novel opens with the death of The Beacon’s editor, Patrick O’Shaughnessy from a suspected shark attack. Jack Harris has just arrived at the regional newspaper’s office, sent by his businessman father to work as a junior journalist.
When rumours swirl about Patrick’s investigations about certain prominent business people and his to-be published exposé, Jack suspects that Patrick has been murdered.
I found the writing style rather basic and clumsy. Jack starts to fall for Caitlin, Patrick’s grieving daughter and together they try and find out whet happened to her father. Several characters are introduced along the way, but there was no real tension created. At times, I felt the dialogue between characters was rather stilted and stereotypical.
I enjoyed reading about the areas of Byron that I am familiar with, but the actual novel itself was pretty mediocre.
When rumours swirl about Patrick’s investigations about certain prominent business people and his to-be published exposé, Jack suspects that Patrick has been murdered.
I found the writing style rather basic and clumsy. Jack starts to fall for Caitlin, Patrick’s grieving daughter and together they try and find out whet happened to her father. Several characters are introduced along the way, but there was no real tension created. At times, I felt the dialogue between characters was rather stilted and stereotypical.
I enjoyed reading about the areas of Byron that I am familiar with, but the actual novel itself was pretty mediocre.
April 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️⭐️ As the back blurb says “Immensely entertaining, ‘The Beacon’ Is a murder mystery with a difference, bursting with humour, local colour, memorable characters and page-turning action”. Set in Byron Bay, in New South Wales, the story features Jack Harris, the disgraced son of a newspaper magnate, exiled to Byron Bay and meant to learn journalism from The Beacon’s editor, Patrick O’Shaughnessy. However, Patrick disappears during his usual morning surf. The local police believe him to be the victim of a shark attack but Jack has his doubts. Jack gradually earns the trust of Patrick’s daughter, Caitlin, and they investigate the suspicious circumstances together. Filled with action, dubious characters, Jack and Caitlin’s helpful friends and associates, humour, Byron Bay eccentricities, and a great plot the novel was marred for me by excessive crude language.
April 2, 2024
A new voice in Aussie crime mysteries, P. A. Thomas has penned The Beacon (2024) set in the coastal town of Bryon Bay, New South Wales. Jack Harris is sent to the town by his father, a newspaper mogul, to learn to be a journalist. On the day he arrives, the local newspaper’s editor disappears. Jack, together with an initially hostile Caitlin, the editor’s daughter, seeks the truth of what happened to her father and the big news story he was chasing. An intriguing tale of past secrets, corruption and a historic murder mystery make for an engaging Aussie noir. With rising danger and tension, this is a first-rate debut thriller with a four stars read rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without inducement.
October 8, 2024
The Beacon, P.A. Thomas’s fabulous debut, is a gripping mystery set in Byron Bay. It follows Jack, the son of a media mogul, who’s been sent by his father to learn the ropes of at The Beacon, the successful local newspaper.
Jack soon learns that Patrick, his new boss, has been killed in a shark attack, but he questions the nature of the killing. He teams up with Patrick’s daughter, Caitlin, and they set out to find out what really happened.
I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery, Jack and Caitlin’s relationship, and the vividly painted setting. What’s not to love about Byron Bay, the iconic Australian beach town with a sensational lighthouse? I was intrigued all the way through.
Highly recommend for fans of the mystery/thriller genre.
Jack soon learns that Patrick, his new boss, has been killed in a shark attack, but he questions the nature of the killing. He teams up with Patrick’s daughter, Caitlin, and they set out to find out what really happened.
I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery, Jack and Caitlin’s relationship, and the vividly painted setting. What’s not to love about Byron Bay, the iconic Australian beach town with a sensational lighthouse? I was intrigued all the way through.
Highly recommend for fans of the mystery/thriller genre.
April 20, 2024
Jack is sent by his father to Byron to learn the newspaper business but on day one the Editor goes missing and when his body is found, a shark attack is assumed. But Patrick was working on a big scoop so what really happened?
Enjoyed this well paced, well written and well read novel ( I listened to the audiobook). Lots of twists for our main characters while they searching for proof of foul play, while dealing with their emotions. Plenty of action, humour, colourful characters and good plotline.
Enjoyed this well paced, well written and well read novel ( I listened to the audiobook). Lots of twists for our main characters while they searching for proof of foul play, while dealing with their emotions. Plenty of action, humour, colourful characters and good plotline.
January 2, 2025
The Beacon
P.A. Thomas
Hard to summarise this one. Did I enjoy it, yes, yes I did. Would I read another book if Jack returns, absolutely. Did the sub plot detour throw me off a bit, also yes.
The mystery was fun and the shenanigans were underway. It’s always a unique experience reading a book set in your actual hometown. Would you enjoy this book as much if you were not familiar with the area and geography, I don’t believe you would. The author makes enormous efforts to talk about numerous landmarks and areas, even down to multiple beaches and without having the lay of the land, I think most mentions of “the Pass”, “Cosy Corner”, “Belongil”, “Tyagarah” etc would fly right over your head and feel like an over saturation of extraneous details. The context and concepts work if you know the town.
As much as lots of details are factual, there’s also a very fictional tale underway. And easy to muddy the water with both, eg the train line and even it felt amiss to not mention the famous Ford shark history when so many other historic facts were thrown into the mix. But maybe you need to grow up here to know all the urban legends we have.
However Aussie crime stories are always worth an inspection and this was definitely easy to read and decently fast paced.
Jack Harris, the disgraced son of Australia’s most powerful business tycoon, has just been exiled to Byron Bay as a junior journalist, at the regional newspaper, The Beacon. His arrival coincides with the disappearance of the paper’s editor Patrick O’Shaughnessy.
Even when reading the full blurb, is this meant to be a satire? Plenty of Byron locals with a motive to kill, including a bioholistic dentist with a secret, a naturist with an undisguised grudge, and even the major of the Northern Rivers Shire.
P.A. Thomas
Hard to summarise this one. Did I enjoy it, yes, yes I did. Would I read another book if Jack returns, absolutely. Did the sub plot detour throw me off a bit, also yes.
The mystery was fun and the shenanigans were underway. It’s always a unique experience reading a book set in your actual hometown. Would you enjoy this book as much if you were not familiar with the area and geography, I don’t believe you would. The author makes enormous efforts to talk about numerous landmarks and areas, even down to multiple beaches and without having the lay of the land, I think most mentions of “the Pass”, “Cosy Corner”, “Belongil”, “Tyagarah” etc would fly right over your head and feel like an over saturation of extraneous details. The context and concepts work if you know the town.
As much as lots of details are factual, there’s also a very fictional tale underway. And easy to muddy the water with both, eg the train line and even it felt amiss to not mention the famous Ford shark history when so many other historic facts were thrown into the mix. But maybe you need to grow up here to know all the urban legends we have.
However Aussie crime stories are always worth an inspection and this was definitely easy to read and decently fast paced.
Jack Harris, the disgraced son of Australia’s most powerful business tycoon, has just been exiled to Byron Bay as a junior journalist, at the regional newspaper, The Beacon. His arrival coincides with the disappearance of the paper’s editor Patrick O’Shaughnessy.
Even when reading the full blurb, is this meant to be a satire? Plenty of Byron locals with a motive to kill, including a bioholistic dentist with a secret, a naturist with an undisguised grudge, and even the major of the Northern Rivers Shire.
August 4, 2025
I read an advance copy of P.A. Thomas's second book, The Sunbaker, a couple of months ago and loved it so much that I straight away put a hold on this book with the library.
Even though I didn't feel that I missed anything when reading The Sunbaker, it was great to read this and see how the relationships between Jack and Caitlin, Kowalski and Begley were formed, and understand the back story in more detail.
I will certainly be adding Mr Thomas to my list of must read authors and look forward to seeing what he comes out with next.
Even though I didn't feel that I missed anything when reading The Sunbaker, it was great to read this and see how the relationships between Jack and Caitlin, Kowalski and Begley were formed, and understand the back story in more detail.
I will certainly be adding Mr Thomas to my list of must read authors and look forward to seeing what he comes out with next.
May 10, 2024
A crime novel set in Australia.
That wasn’t the only reason I enjoyed The Beacon. This story is really well thought out and lots of fun along the way. The protagonist having a friend who is a hacker seemed a little far fetched but it was done so well that I really didn’t mind.
Just the right number of characters and an interesting mix of scenery and leads for our sleuthing protagonist to chase made for a very enjoyable and satisfying read.
That wasn’t the only reason I enjoyed The Beacon. This story is really well thought out and lots of fun along the way. The protagonist having a friend who is a hacker seemed a little far fetched but it was done so well that I really didn’t mind.
Just the right number of characters and an interesting mix of scenery and leads for our sleuthing protagonist to chase made for a very enjoyable and satisfying read.
August 2, 2024
Easy good reading - Jack Harris is an interesting character and Byron bay well described as location; the surfing context and the hinterland both well drawn; manipulative nature of the media is poignant; I got a little bit confused in the historical background of the investigation three quarters in but it became clearer - there is a humorous side to the police and to jacks friend Ricky .. at times Caitlin was overly dramatic .. but in all a very good Aussie story
March 1, 2024
This was an entertaining read, where you were never quite sure what to believe. There was some subtle humour in this, and I imagine if you’ve been to Byron Bay, that would be great too. It was an interesting mystery to unravel, going back many years to prior corruption. I would certainly keep my eye out for more from this author.
March 20, 2024
4.5 stars for me. I loved Mr Thomas's style of writing. I was into it from the first page. Gruesome, descriptive, sad, funny, exciting, anger and anxious feelings. The list goes on but overall a lovely sense of satisfaction at the end. By reading the acknowledgments it seems there is to be a sequel. How wonderful. Will wait with great anticipation.
May 1, 2024
The synopsis drew me in, and I was eager to dive into it. Overall, it was an enjoyable book, but there were moments when the story felt a bit drawn out. It didn't completely capture my attention, but that could be because it differs from the fast-paced thrillers I typically gravitate towards.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Wavesound from WF Howes Ltd for the free audio copy.
June 2, 2025
A good easy read. Kept me turning the pages to the end. Now I know the characters I can read the next book The Sunbaker that was sent to me by @Better Reading. Keen to know what has happened to the future of some of the characters.
The Beacon was set in The Byron Bay Area and a daughter and a newspaper man are trying to find her father and who and why his disappearance happened.
The Beacon was set in The Byron Bay Area and a daughter and a newspaper man are trying to find her father and who and why his disappearance happened.
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