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A Petticoat Police Mystery #2
Murder on North Terrace
The indomitable Miss Cocks and Ethel Bromley return for Book Two in the bestselling and charmingly cosy Petticoat Police Mystery Series, inspired by one of Australia's first policewomen.
Adelaide, September 1917. Six months after solving the Dora Black case, Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley are back walking the beat. The city is unsettled. Winter won't leave. Soldiers are returning from the Front with broken bodies and troubled souls. And now a powerful board governor has been found dead in the Art Gallery - dumped beneath a scandalous nude painting that has attracted both pious outrage and record crowds.
When Ethel receives an anonymous tip, she's elated at being seconded to the Detective Branch. The murder goes to the heart of Adelaide's elite, where this society girl is in her element. Miss Cocks is left grappling with six o'clock swills, shadows in alleyways and a brutal assault on a schoolgirl. She needs Ethel to catch her killer, and quickly.
Alas, murder in Adelaide is never a simple affair . . .
Inspired by the true story of Australia's pioneering policewoman, Kate Cocks.
Adelaide, September 1917. Six months after solving the Dora Black case, Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley are back walking the beat. The city is unsettled. Winter won't leave. Soldiers are returning from the Front with broken bodies and troubled souls. And now a powerful board governor has been found dead in the Art Gallery - dumped beneath a scandalous nude painting that has attracted both pious outrage and record crowds.
When Ethel receives an anonymous tip, she's elated at being seconded to the Detective Branch. The murder goes to the heart of Adelaide's elite, where this society girl is in her element. Miss Cocks is left grappling with six o'clock swills, shadows in alleyways and a brutal assault on a schoolgirl. She needs Ethel to catch her killer, and quickly.
Alas, murder in Adelaide is never a simple affair . . .
Inspired by the true story of Australia's pioneering policewoman, Kate Cocks.
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Published September 30, 2025
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About the author
Lainie Anderson
8 books67 followersLainie Anderson is the author of The Death of Dora Black and Long Flight Home. Her 35-year career in journalism and public relations includes 17 years as a columnist with Sunday Mail, as well as stints at the Herald Sun, London's The Times and the South Australian Tourism Commission. After being awarded a Churchill Fellowship, Lainie published her debut novel Long Flight Home in 2019. In 2024, Lainie completed a PhD with the University of South Australia, researching the life of Kate Cocks, the inspiration behind The Death of Dora Black.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 14, 2025
It was September, 1917, in the beautiful capital city of South Australia, Adelaide. Miss Kate Cocks, one of the first female policewomen in Australia, had just been informed that there had been murder at the Art Gallery. Miss Cocks and her sidekick, Ethel Bromley, walked the beat day and night, sorting out miscreants, helping young women and children, trying to keep some order in the city. So when Ethel was seconded to the detective team looking into the Art Gallery murder, she was very proud and excited.
Meanwhile Miss Cocks had found a young woman - a child really at fifteen years of age - who had been raped. Visiting her in hospital, the young woman wouldn't talk to the police. She was ashamed, but Miss Cocks was determined to wrestle the truth from her, albeit gently. And then another young woman was discovered, rushed to the hospital. Miss Cocks put everything into finding the culprit. Would Ethel and the police force find the murderer? And would Miss Cocks unearth the rapist?
Murder on North Terrace is the 2nd in A Petticoat Police Mystery by Aussie author Lainie Anderson and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Although I haven't read the first in the series, I don't believe I missed anything important to this story. Ethel is a great character with much strength, determination and humiliation. While Miss Cocks, although lonely, knows how to do the job. An excellent read which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley & Hachette AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
Meanwhile Miss Cocks had found a young woman - a child really at fifteen years of age - who had been raped. Visiting her in hospital, the young woman wouldn't talk to the police. She was ashamed, but Miss Cocks was determined to wrestle the truth from her, albeit gently. And then another young woman was discovered, rushed to the hospital. Miss Cocks put everything into finding the culprit. Would Ethel and the police force find the murderer? And would Miss Cocks unearth the rapist?
Murder on North Terrace is the 2nd in A Petticoat Police Mystery by Aussie author Lainie Anderson and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Although I haven't read the first in the series, I don't believe I missed anything important to this story. Ethel is a great character with much strength, determination and humiliation. While Miss Cocks, although lonely, knows how to do the job. An excellent read which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley & Hachette AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
November 13, 2025
4.5 stars
The second book in the Petticoat Police series follows Kate Cocks, the first female police officer to be paid the same as her male colleagues. Kate and Ethel, Adelaide’s trailblazing women constables, are back—this time investigating a murder at the art gallery in front of a controversial painting.
I was so happy to jump back into Kate and Ethel’s story. They’re both such interesting and likable characters, and I love how their friendship and determination shine through. The Adelaide setting during World War I was fantastic, and I really enjoyed all the historical details—especially knowing that Kate and some of the events were inspired by real life.
The pacing was great throughout, and the reveal of the murderer genuinely surprised me—I didn’t see that coming!
A really enjoyable mix of historical fiction and crime. I’d definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves smart, capable female leads and a good historical mystery.
The second book in the Petticoat Police series follows Kate Cocks, the first female police officer to be paid the same as her male colleagues. Kate and Ethel, Adelaide’s trailblazing women constables, are back—this time investigating a murder at the art gallery in front of a controversial painting.
I was so happy to jump back into Kate and Ethel’s story. They’re both such interesting and likable characters, and I love how their friendship and determination shine through. The Adelaide setting during World War I was fantastic, and I really enjoyed all the historical details—especially knowing that Kate and some of the events were inspired by real life.
The pacing was great throughout, and the reveal of the murderer genuinely surprised me—I didn’t see that coming!
A really enjoyable mix of historical fiction and crime. I’d definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves smart, capable female leads and a good historical mystery.
September 3, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this follow up to The Death of Dora Black, which picks up 6 months after the first in the Petticoat Police series.
Kate Cocks continues leading the Womens Police Branch in Adelaide, where the tiny team consisting of Kate and Ethel are dealing with the everyday frustration of being overworked and understaffed.
Vivacious Ethel Bromley gets the chance to be involved in a murder investigation with the big boys club. I loved to see her hold her own and use her smarts and connections to help solve the case.
I devoured this story from start to finish and found it to be a great insight into wartime life in Adelaide. I'm hoping there are more to come 👏🏻
Kate Cocks continues leading the Womens Police Branch in Adelaide, where the tiny team consisting of Kate and Ethel are dealing with the everyday frustration of being overworked and understaffed.
Vivacious Ethel Bromley gets the chance to be involved in a murder investigation with the big boys club. I loved to see her hold her own and use her smarts and connections to help solve the case.
I devoured this story from start to finish and found it to be a great insight into wartime life in Adelaide. I'm hoping there are more to come 👏🏻
November 15, 2025
I loved being back in the world of Kate Cocks..as well as her 5 foot cane..I adored Ethel and her hat and ‘loveable ying to Miss Cocks aloof Yang’ I was completely captivated by the murder and the assault on 15 year old Nellie..I feel as though I’ve walked the streets of 1917 Adelaide (be it through fictional eyes..) I can’t wait for the next instalment of the petticoat police mystery!
August 23, 2025
ARC review: Murder On North Terrace by @lainie.anderson published by @hachetteaus and supplied by @netgalley
Release date: 30 September 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is book 2 in the Petticoat Police Mystery series and follows Policewomen Kate and Ethel 6 months after the Dora Black case (book 1). It’s 1917 and men are returning from the Great War, which leads to drama of its own but when a high profile murder happens at the art gallery, and the body is left under a controversial painting, Ethel is seconded to the detective department to assist with the investigation.
I loved getting to follow Kate and Ethel again and see their working relationship ship and friendship grow. Now while Miss Crooks might not be the most likeable character, she is a product of her time and is fascinating to read about (she was in fact Australia’s first ever policewoman who was also paid equally to the men).
Release date: 30 September 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is book 2 in the Petticoat Police Mystery series and follows Policewomen Kate and Ethel 6 months after the Dora Black case (book 1). It’s 1917 and men are returning from the Great War, which leads to drama of its own but when a high profile murder happens at the art gallery, and the body is left under a controversial painting, Ethel is seconded to the detective department to assist with the investigation.
I loved getting to follow Kate and Ethel again and see their working relationship ship and friendship grow. Now while Miss Crooks might not be the most likeable character, she is a product of her time and is fascinating to read about (she was in fact Australia’s first ever policewoman who was also paid equally to the men).
November 29, 2025
Ethel hurried on, dearly wishing she'd had time to gather 'evidence" (some might call it gossip) from Auntie Connie. 'You would also know, sir, that it's officially the Board of Governors of the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery of South Australia, which dates back to when they were all under the one roof. The board oversees the management of all three public institutions here on North Terrace - apparently there's no shortage of bickering about their pet projects, and which institution should get the lion's share of state funding and bequests.’
‘Bickering?'
Well, it's the arts, sir - chronically underfunded by politicians whose idea of culture is watching men kick a football. Arts institutions are left to fight over the scraps.'
The police commissioner glanced sideways at his young constable, deciding he really did like the cut of her jib. Not a single man on his force could offer such frank commentary on matters of cultural import.
‘Bickering?'
Well, it's the arts, sir - chronically underfunded by politicians whose idea of culture is watching men kick a football. Arts institutions are left to fight over the scraps.'
The police commissioner glanced sideways at his young constable, deciding he really did like the cut of her jib. Not a single man on his force could offer such frank commentary on matters of cultural import.
October 1, 2025
Happy Publication Week to Murder on North Terrace, the second book in Lainie Anderson’s fabulous Petticoat Police Mystery series. Inspired by Kate Cocks, the first female police officer in the Commonwealth to be paid the same as her male colleagues, it was a compelling historical crime read.
Six months after they solved the Dora Black case, Miss Cocks and her second Ethel Bromley are back walking the streets of Adelaide protecting women and children. With more and more soldiers returning from the war front, the city is heaving. When a body is found in the Art Gallery, it’s not long before Ethel receives an anonymous tip and is subsequently seconded to the Detective Branch, leaving Miss Cocks to shoulder all their regular police work as well as solving the case of a terrible assault on a young schoolgirl. Can Ethel catch the killer quickly, before Miss Cocks ends up in danger patrolling the Adelaide streets alone?
I absolutely adored this book and thought it was a brilliant second instalment in this incredibly engaging and wonderfully written series. The historical elements were well researched and the characters of Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley so well realised, that the story absolutely shone. I enjoyed getting to know Ethel better in this book and although neither her nor Kate were perfect this made them all the more human.
The murder mystery at the heart of the book had so many different aspects to it and I loved being alongside the police as they tracked down the suspects and followed the various trails of evidence. Although there are some dark themes, there were also moments of humour and lightheartedness that had me laughing out loud.
Murder on North Terrace can definitely be read as a standalone, but I urge you to read The Death of Dora Black first to fully appreciate the history and nuances of these wonderful characters.
Six months after they solved the Dora Black case, Miss Cocks and her second Ethel Bromley are back walking the streets of Adelaide protecting women and children. With more and more soldiers returning from the war front, the city is heaving. When a body is found in the Art Gallery, it’s not long before Ethel receives an anonymous tip and is subsequently seconded to the Detective Branch, leaving Miss Cocks to shoulder all their regular police work as well as solving the case of a terrible assault on a young schoolgirl. Can Ethel catch the killer quickly, before Miss Cocks ends up in danger patrolling the Adelaide streets alone?
I absolutely adored this book and thought it was a brilliant second instalment in this incredibly engaging and wonderfully written series. The historical elements were well researched and the characters of Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley so well realised, that the story absolutely shone. I enjoyed getting to know Ethel better in this book and although neither her nor Kate were perfect this made them all the more human.
The murder mystery at the heart of the book had so many different aspects to it and I loved being alongside the police as they tracked down the suspects and followed the various trails of evidence. Although there are some dark themes, there were also moments of humour and lightheartedness that had me laughing out loud.
Murder on North Terrace can definitely be read as a standalone, but I urge you to read The Death of Dora Black first to fully appreciate the history and nuances of these wonderful characters.
October 23, 2025
I loved Murder in North Terrace - the second in the series featuring trailblazing Women Police Officer Kate Cocks and her clever sidekick, Ethel Bromley. Set in early 1900s Adelaide, it’s a brilliant mix of mystery, history and strong female characters. The city’s past comes to life with great detail, it’s like you’re walking those North Terrace streets yourself back in the day. A fantastic read for anyone who loves historical fiction with intrigue!
October 14, 2025
Murder on North Terrace by Lainie Anderson
🌟 3.5/5 (falls somewhere between liked and loved!)
This review is based on an uncorrected proof.
I had not read the first book in this series, The Death of Dora Black. It was definitely not necessary to be able to enjoy reading this book.
Like the first book, Kate Cocks’ story happens in 1910s Adelaide, South Australia.
Lainie’s writing was smooth and easy to follow. Overall I’d say the book was slow- to medium-paced. I read it over the course of a week and a half.
I enjoyed the slow build of the mysteries, and the eventual resolution! I didn’t manage to guess the outcome of the mystery either, which is always good!!
If you like Kerry Greenwood’s Phryne Fisher series, you will love the Petticoat Police Mysteries.
I received an eARC of this book. I was not incentivised to read or review. Thank you to Lainie Anderson, Hachette Australia, and NetGalley for the review copy.
🌟 3.5/5 (falls somewhere between liked and loved!)
This review is based on an uncorrected proof.
I had not read the first book in this series, The Death of Dora Black. It was definitely not necessary to be able to enjoy reading this book.
Like the first book, Kate Cocks’ story happens in 1910s Adelaide, South Australia.
Lainie’s writing was smooth and easy to follow. Overall I’d say the book was slow- to medium-paced. I read it over the course of a week and a half.
I enjoyed the slow build of the mysteries, and the eventual resolution! I didn’t manage to guess the outcome of the mystery either, which is always good!!
If you like Kerry Greenwood’s Phryne Fisher series, you will love the Petticoat Police Mysteries.
I received an eARC of this book. I was not incentivised to read or review. Thank you to Lainie Anderson, Hachette Australia, and NetGalley for the review copy.
October 22, 2025
Murder mystery set in 1917 Adelaide. Was keen. But a bit too slow for me. Great descriptions of Adelaide
September 29, 2025
Following on from solving a murder case in ‘The Death of Dora Black’, Police Woman Constable Miss Kate Cocks and her junior constable Ethel Bromley are back. Once again they tasked with protecting women and children and preventing immorality by patrolling the parklands of Adelaide, meeting unaccompanied young women off country trains and listening to women’s grievances at the police station.
When a member of the Museum and Art Gallery Board of Govenors is found dead in front of a controversial painting in the Art Gallery, Miss Cocks finds herself working alone. Ethel’s family connections to Adelaide’s elite society find her seconded to the murder investigation.
With many soldiers now returning from the Front in 1917, Miss Cocks has her work cut out protecting women from drunken men and before long she has the brutal assault and rape of a fifteen year old schoolgirl to investigate.
As the author notes in her afterword, the novel is inspired by the real life and times of Miss Kate Cocks with many facts woven into the fiction. Kate Cocks was the first woman police constable in Australia, appointed to the South Australian Women’s Police Branch in 1915 and remarkably paid the same salary as the men. Her delightful side kick Ethel is fictional but has borrowed some traits from Miss Cocks’ real junior constable Annie Ross.
The mysteries are both intriguing and the investigations expose some of the darker aspects of society at the time. The dynamics and friendship between the two very different main characters is delightfully portrayed. The restrictions on women wanting a career at that time against society’s expectations are also well portrayed. I’m hoping they will have many more crimes to solve together in the future.
With thanks to Hachette Au & NZ via Netgalley for a copy to read.
When a member of the Museum and Art Gallery Board of Govenors is found dead in front of a controversial painting in the Art Gallery, Miss Cocks finds herself working alone. Ethel’s family connections to Adelaide’s elite society find her seconded to the murder investigation.
With many soldiers now returning from the Front in 1917, Miss Cocks has her work cut out protecting women from drunken men and before long she has the brutal assault and rape of a fifteen year old schoolgirl to investigate.
As the author notes in her afterword, the novel is inspired by the real life and times of Miss Kate Cocks with many facts woven into the fiction. Kate Cocks was the first woman police constable in Australia, appointed to the South Australian Women’s Police Branch in 1915 and remarkably paid the same salary as the men. Her delightful side kick Ethel is fictional but has borrowed some traits from Miss Cocks’ real junior constable Annie Ross.
The mysteries are both intriguing and the investigations expose some of the darker aspects of society at the time. The dynamics and friendship between the two very different main characters is delightfully portrayed. The restrictions on women wanting a career at that time against society’s expectations are also well portrayed. I’m hoping they will have many more crimes to solve together in the future.
With thanks to Hachette Au & NZ via Netgalley for a copy to read.
October 25, 2025
'Murder on North Terrace' is set in Adelaide in September, 1917.
Gertie Stafford, who used to work in the local morgue, is now a cleaner at the Art Gallery of South Australia.
When she arrives one morning, she is surprised to smell the familiar metallic odour of dried blood.
On the floor, in front of a scandalous nude painting that has attracted both pious outrage and record crowds, lay a grey-haired male with a wide gash to his throat. Philip Lyons, a governor of the art gallery, had been murdered.
Woman Police Constable Ethel Bromley is transferred to the detective branch to help investigate but is required to step down when her relatives become entangled as witnesses.
WPC Kate Cocks, officer-in-charge of the Women’s Police Branch, replaces her and ‘fresh eyes’ produce results.
Murder on North Terrace, the second novel in the Petticoat Mystery series, is well-researched, intriguing, and entertaining. Constable Bromley’s relatives are delightful, lovable and interfere disgracefully. The police commissioner is not amused. Kate Cocks’ intuition and determination ensures the puzzling motivation for the murder is exposed and the murderer apprehended.
The series is inspired by the case histories of Kate Cocks (1875-1954), the first police officer in charge of the Women’s Police Branch in South Australia.
July 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars!
Murder on North Terrace is a really interesting and enjoyable historical mystery. The series is a fictionalised account of the career of Australia’s first female police officer.
What I loved in particular:
- It was so clear that Lainie Anderson has extensively studied Kate’s life. There was so much care and detail put into her character and the attention to detail about the workings of the South Australian women’s police branch made Adelaide during the First World War come alive for me.
- I liked the mentor/mentee dynamic between Kate and Ethel.
- I liked that the story did not shy away from highlighting how much women like Ethel stood to lose by pursuing a career. Although I was glad that in the end she did not need to choose between her career and Alistair.
While the murder case and the other case that Kate and Ethel were working on did resolve nicely in this book, I did sometimes feel that the plot became a little lost under the historical police procedural details. However, I did immediately buy a copy of the death of Dora Black (the first in this series) as I absolutely want to read more about Kate.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Hachette Australia and New Zealand for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Murder on North Terrace is a really interesting and enjoyable historical mystery. The series is a fictionalised account of the career of Australia’s first female police officer.
What I loved in particular:
- It was so clear that Lainie Anderson has extensively studied Kate’s life. There was so much care and detail put into her character and the attention to detail about the workings of the South Australian women’s police branch made Adelaide during the First World War come alive for me.
- I liked the mentor/mentee dynamic between Kate and Ethel.
- I liked that the story did not shy away from highlighting how much women like Ethel stood to lose by pursuing a career. Although I was glad that in the end she did not need to choose between her career and Alistair.
While the murder case and the other case that Kate and Ethel were working on did resolve nicely in this book, I did sometimes feel that the plot became a little lost under the historical police procedural details. However, I did immediately buy a copy of the death of Dora Black (the first in this series) as I absolutely want to read more about Kate.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Hachette Australia and New Zealand for the opportunity to read this ARC.
August 23, 2025
Murder on North Terrace is the perfect follow-up to the alluring and exciting Death of Dora Black. Lainie Anderson has written a wonderful follow-up that further explores the beautiful setting of 1917 Adelaide, and its hidden underbelly. Murder on North Terrace has it all: history, deceit, betrayal, twists, and most importantly, more detective work from the beloved Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley. The mysteries Kate and Ethel found themselves at the forefront of uncovering were embroiled in the the traumas of war and treachery. I appreciate that Anderson is not scared to confront the injustices of the time, and explore how sexism and misogyny impacted the lives of women in 1917. I loved getting to read more about the work of Kate and Ethel; their quiet comraderie and friendship never ceased to make me smile. I dearly hope that Anderson will continue the Petticoat Police Mystery series, and if so, I look forward to reading about the adventures from the latest recruit! All this to say, Murder on North Terrace is a beautifully composed story, that explores the importance of women in the police force drawn from real historical events and people, with some modern perspectives sprinkled in.
August 23, 2025
Murder on North Terrace is the second in the Petticoat Police series. It follows Kate Cocks, the first policewoman in the British Empire to earn the same salary as a man (based on a true story), and her colleague, Ethel Bromley. Together, they investigate the death of an art gallery governor, whose body is found in front of a controversial painting he was responsible for purchasing.
This novel is an engaging cosy crime that transports readers to 1917 Adelaide. The atmosphere is rich with period detail, restless returned soldiers, and a city caught between respectability and scandal.
The storytelling has the same charm and familiarity as classic crime dramas like Miss Marple or Midsomer Murders. There’s comfort in the rhythm of the investigation, even as the plot explores corruption, violence, and society’s darker corners.
Kate and Ethel are vividly drawn. The novel balances tension with warmth, and traditional attitudes with the stirrings of change. Inspired by real history, it never feels heavy-handed. Instead, the historical detail deepens the intrigue and gives the mystery a strong sense of place.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hachette for an advanced reading copy.
This novel is an engaging cosy crime that transports readers to 1917 Adelaide. The atmosphere is rich with period detail, restless returned soldiers, and a city caught between respectability and scandal.
The storytelling has the same charm and familiarity as classic crime dramas like Miss Marple or Midsomer Murders. There’s comfort in the rhythm of the investigation, even as the plot explores corruption, violence, and society’s darker corners.
Kate and Ethel are vividly drawn. The novel balances tension with warmth, and traditional attitudes with the stirrings of change. Inspired by real history, it never feels heavy-handed. Instead, the historical detail deepens the intrigue and gives the mystery a strong sense of place.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hachette for an advanced reading copy.
February 7, 2026
Murder on North Terrace deepens the quiet authority of the Petticoat Police series, balancing historical authenticity with a genuinely human sense of consequence.
What stands out most here is the contrast between Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley as the investigation splinters across class, gender, and post-war trauma. The Adelaide setting feels unsettled in a way that goes beyond atmosphere returned soldiers, moral panic, and social hypocrisy all press in on the mystery, giving the crime real social weight rather than treating it as a puzzle alone.
The dual investigations work especially well: Ethel navigating privilege and proximity to power, while Miss Cocks faces the harsher realities of street-level policing. The result is a story that respects both character and history, allowing tension to build through accumulation rather than shock.
A thoughtful, immersive historical mystery that understands restraint, stakes, and the quiet courage required to work against entrenched systems. A strong continuation of the series.
What stands out most here is the contrast between Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley as the investigation splinters across class, gender, and post-war trauma. The Adelaide setting feels unsettled in a way that goes beyond atmosphere returned soldiers, moral panic, and social hypocrisy all press in on the mystery, giving the crime real social weight rather than treating it as a puzzle alone.
The dual investigations work especially well: Ethel navigating privilege and proximity to power, while Miss Cocks faces the harsher realities of street-level policing. The result is a story that respects both character and history, allowing tension to build through accumulation rather than shock.
A thoughtful, immersive historical mystery that understands restraint, stakes, and the quiet courage required to work against entrenched systems. A strong continuation of the series.
October 28, 2025
Another fabulous book by the amazing Lainie Anderson. Number 2 in the Petticoat Police Mystery re-introduces us to the true story of local Police Woman Katie Cocks and her (partly) fictionally created colleague, the spirited Ethel Bromley. This story is, again, set in the beautiful city of Adelaide and I can’t get enough of reading about the history of the beautiful town and its landmarks.
‘…Adelaide’s grand North Terrace boulevard of public institutions - a mile-long strip of elegant Victorian and classical architecture that South Australians liked to believe was the envy of the nation…’
The plot is deep, twisting & turning through the streets and suburbs of South Australia pausing to introduce us to some high society while also peeling back the veneer to get us close to the not so fortunate.
If you like the first book in the series you will be pleased as punch with this one. I have my fingers & toes crossed another one will follow in the not to distant future 😍🤞
‘…Adelaide’s grand North Terrace boulevard of public institutions - a mile-long strip of elegant Victorian and classical architecture that South Australians liked to believe was the envy of the nation…’
The plot is deep, twisting & turning through the streets and suburbs of South Australia pausing to introduce us to some high society while also peeling back the veneer to get us close to the not so fortunate.
If you like the first book in the series you will be pleased as punch with this one. I have my fingers & toes crossed another one will follow in the not to distant future 😍🤞
December 9, 2025
Book 2 in the Petticoat Police Mystery series and once again we are following Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley as they investigate a murder in the town of Adelaide in 1917 and what follows is a story full of history, crime and trailblazing women.
I didn’t enjoy this as much as Book 1, but it’s still a good solid read, with plenty of true facts surrounding the history of Adelaide, that of WW1 and just what life was like in the early 1900’s, especially for women and around policing.
What I liked most though, was the growth of Ethel and seeing her find her feet in her role as a woman police officer and finding her voice.
I would love to see a non-fiction story written about Kate Cocks and these times.
There is a 3rd book in the series to be released and I’ll be keeping my eye out for it.
Thank-you Lainie, Hachette Audio and Netgalley for an audio advanced readers copy, in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t enjoy this as much as Book 1, but it’s still a good solid read, with plenty of true facts surrounding the history of Adelaide, that of WW1 and just what life was like in the early 1900’s, especially for women and around policing.
What I liked most though, was the growth of Ethel and seeing her find her feet in her role as a woman police officer and finding her voice.
I would love to see a non-fiction story written about Kate Cocks and these times.
There is a 3rd book in the series to be released and I’ll be keeping my eye out for it.
Thank-you Lainie, Hachette Audio and Netgalley for an audio advanced readers copy, in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2025
Kate Cocks and her lively offsider, Ethel, are back solving crimes and helping the downtrodden in 1917 Adelaide. A well known local figure in the arts world has been brutally murdered and a young fifteen year old student has been raped. With Ethel seconded to assist the detectives with the murder investigation, Kate is swamped with not only her regular duties, but also trying to make headway on the rape case. The atmosphere of Adelaide during World War I, the tensions and difficulties, together with a broad range of characters either assisting or obstructing the women police officers, make for compelling reading. This is a real page turner which had me hooked from beginning to end. A worthy follow-up to the first book in this series and I can only say I am pleased to learn there is a third book forthcoming. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommended.
January 15, 2026
I went looking for the controversial painting ‘Sowing the Seed’ in the Adelaide Art Gallery after reading about its dramatic reception in 1914 and because of the dead body discovered in front of it. Unfortunately, it was only in the final notes at the end of the novel that I learned that the painting was exchanged for a much less interesting portrait later during World War One.
Aside from this reference, it was nice to read about Kate Cocks and Ethel investigating crimes around Adelaide. There were some unpleasant parts of the war examined: crimes against innocent civilians and efforts to recruit further soldiers despite the increasingly dire situation for those fighting overseas. Most characters in these novels are incredibly privileged, and the experiences of the working class, Aboriginal people and those opposed to war are left out.
Aside from this reference, it was nice to read about Kate Cocks and Ethel investigating crimes around Adelaide. There were some unpleasant parts of the war examined: crimes against innocent civilians and efforts to recruit further soldiers despite the increasingly dire situation for those fighting overseas. Most characters in these novels are incredibly privileged, and the experiences of the working class, Aboriginal people and those opposed to war are left out.
August 31, 2025
Oh how I love Kate and Ethel!
Keep the Petticoat Police Mysteries coming! A nice, cosy mystery that still has a well paced story and a mystery to be solved.
There were a lot of passages that seemed to be a historic lore dump, which normally would be a put off but it was just so interesting, and honestly part of the charm of this book. I loved hearing the little things about Adelaide in 1917, and it was evident that Lainie Anderson has done her research.
The characters of Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley are such a delight, and I feel like I've met them in person after reading this. All the side characters, from the male officers, to Ruby, to Ethel's Auntie Con were all very real and nuanced too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
Keep the Petticoat Police Mysteries coming! A nice, cosy mystery that still has a well paced story and a mystery to be solved.
There were a lot of passages that seemed to be a historic lore dump, which normally would be a put off but it was just so interesting, and honestly part of the charm of this book. I loved hearing the little things about Adelaide in 1917, and it was evident that Lainie Anderson has done her research.
The characters of Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley are such a delight, and I feel like I've met them in person after reading this. All the side characters, from the male officers, to Ruby, to Ethel's Auntie Con were all very real and nuanced too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
September 28, 2025
Kate Cocks is back! And she's as clever as ever.
When there is a murder at the gallery - of a board member, no less - Ethel Bromley is seconded to the police division to aid in the investigation. She has links to the right people and is a constant source of interesting information.
Kate Cocks is left to 'man' up the women's force on her own, taking personal responsibility for maintaining the decorum of the young ladies of Adelaide. So when she comes across a distraught girl who has obviously been attacked, she takes it on herself to get to the bottom of the matter.
But maybe the two crimes aren't so disconnected.
A great, cozy read. Set against WWI, and the city of Adelaide, this is a great summer book.
When there is a murder at the gallery - of a board member, no less - Ethel Bromley is seconded to the police division to aid in the investigation. She has links to the right people and is a constant source of interesting information.
Kate Cocks is left to 'man' up the women's force on her own, taking personal responsibility for maintaining the decorum of the young ladies of Adelaide. So when she comes across a distraught girl who has obviously been attacked, she takes it on herself to get to the bottom of the matter.
But maybe the two crimes aren't so disconnected.
A great, cozy read. Set against WWI, and the city of Adelaide, this is a great summer book.
November 18, 2025
Finally finished, with a couple of library books that were due back, in between.
It’s no secret that I don’t usually read historical fiction, but you know, when you went to school with the author, well that’s different!
Loved this one from Lainie, always enjoyable to laugh out loud at recognisable names like Constable Doody (& Claudia Agnew from the last book) as well as seeing locations, like Minlaton and Moonta and Point Pearce, so close to me from my recent family history discoveries.
I love Ethel, especially her ju-jitsu move near the end.
The only problem I had was the continued questioning, after their request for a lawyer for a few characters, but that’s just the cop in me!
Really loved it, looking forward to part 3 🤩
It’s no secret that I don’t usually read historical fiction, but you know, when you went to school with the author, well that’s different!
Loved this one from Lainie, always enjoyable to laugh out loud at recognisable names like Constable Doody (& Claudia Agnew from the last book) as well as seeing locations, like Minlaton and Moonta and Point Pearce, so close to me from my recent family history discoveries.
I love Ethel, especially her ju-jitsu move near the end.
The only problem I had was the continued questioning, after their request for a lawyer for a few characters, but that’s just the cop in me!
Really loved it, looking forward to part 3 🤩
October 13, 2025
I was easily drawn into the world of Adelaide during WWI. This time the historical setting was managed seamlessly, without any need for explanations. I could picture the scene and empathised with motivations. I wanted to know what happened. I found the plot plausible and the characters well developed and rounded. I like the growth and development from the first in the series.
As before, I have reservations about creating fictional stories around historical people. I’d be interested in a biography. This is a good and engrossing read. I’d be a little happier if the heroines were fictional. For that reason this is about 3.8 stars for me.
As before, I have reservations about creating fictional stories around historical people. I’d be interested in a biography. This is a good and engrossing read. I’d be a little happier if the heroines were fictional. For that reason this is about 3.8 stars for me.
December 13, 2025
Historical crime fiction set at home is always attractive, and this one was worth the read. 1917. The first flush of World War I is over. 300 hundred wounded soldiers have returned and a popular army captain is busy drumming up another 150 recruits for South Australia's 10th Battalion. Murders are rare in Adelaide and then the Curator of the Art Gallery is murdered, throat cut, beneath a painting that has attracted a lot of attention. Kate Cox loses her assistant to the Adelaide Detective force, but the investigation is very slow.
The historical elements and settings of the story are credible and the characters strike home.
The historical elements and settings of the story are credible and the characters strike home.
October 7, 2025
Another excellent instalment in the Petticoat Police mystery series. Set in Adelaide in September 1917 it continues the story of Miss Kate Cocks, Ethel Bromley and the Women’s Police Branch. This time they become involved in a murder at the Art Gallery and an assault on a schoolgirl in the Parklands. Returning soldiers as well as the women and children left behind take up the time of the women. Meticulously researched and well-written this is historical fiction with murder and societal problems at its best.
December 28, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed this second adventure in the Petticoat Police series, set in Adelaide in 1917. The excellent dialogue, the historical accuracy, the great characters, the ingenious plot -- plus being able to recognise the settings! -- add up to a great read.
Kate Cocks, historical figure, comes to life on these pages in all her prickly intelligence and courage. Hurrah!
I'm hoping there will be a third...
Kate Cocks, historical figure, comes to life on these pages in all her prickly intelligence and courage. Hurrah!
I'm hoping there will be a third...
August 31, 2025
After thoroughly enjoying the first novel in this series (The Death of Dora Black), I was delighted to have an opportunity to read the second novel, which opens six months later.
In September 1917, Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley are walking their police beat in Adelaide. Soldiers are returning from the Great War. While many returning soldiers have both physical and emotional injury, the pressure for other young men to enlist is intense. And, although it is spring, winter is reluctant to move on. The city is unsettled.
Then, when one of the board members of the Art Gallery is found dead between a scandalous nude painting that has divided the community, members of Adelaide’s elite are outraged. While there is no shortage of people with a grudge against the board member, there is no clear suspect. Ethel receives an anonymous tip. And, as a member of the upper echelons of Adelaide society, her knowledge is deemed useful and so Ethel is seconded to the Detective Branch.
Meanwhile, Kate Cocks is left to manage their usual work on her own. A brutal assault on a schoolgirl may be her highest priority but there are plenty of other demands on her time. When will Ethel return? Who murdered the board member and why? And who was responsible for the assault on the schoolgirl? Both investigations have twists and both Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley have challenges to overcome.
This series has been inspired by the true story of Kate Cocks, a pioneering policewoman who dedicated her life to helping women and children escape abuse and violence. Ms Anderson neatly combines fact and fiction to bring Miss Cocks and her times to life.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia and New Zealand for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
In September 1917, Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley are walking their police beat in Adelaide. Soldiers are returning from the Great War. While many returning soldiers have both physical and emotional injury, the pressure for other young men to enlist is intense. And, although it is spring, winter is reluctant to move on. The city is unsettled.
Then, when one of the board members of the Art Gallery is found dead between a scandalous nude painting that has divided the community, members of Adelaide’s elite are outraged. While there is no shortage of people with a grudge against the board member, there is no clear suspect. Ethel receives an anonymous tip. And, as a member of the upper echelons of Adelaide society, her knowledge is deemed useful and so Ethel is seconded to the Detective Branch.
Meanwhile, Kate Cocks is left to manage their usual work on her own. A brutal assault on a schoolgirl may be her highest priority but there are plenty of other demands on her time. When will Ethel return? Who murdered the board member and why? And who was responsible for the assault on the schoolgirl? Both investigations have twists and both Kate Cocks and Ethel Bromley have challenges to overcome.
This series has been inspired by the true story of Kate Cocks, a pioneering policewoman who dedicated her life to helping women and children escape abuse and violence. Ms Anderson neatly combines fact and fiction to bring Miss Cocks and her times to life.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia and New Zealand for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
September 16, 2025
Fanny Cocks is back with her sidekick Ethel to solve more crimes! I love that this series is based on an actual historical person - she was the first female police officer to be paid the same rate as her male counterparts. I also like that Ethel is there to balance out some of the more... staid (acceptable for the time period) world views that Fanny holds.
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