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A Time of Secrets
1943 is a dangerous time to fall in love...
In wartime Melbourne loose lips sink ships, so when Australian Women's Army sergeant Stella Aldridge overhears soldiers whispering about a revenge killing, she follows her instincts to investigate, despite finding herself drawn to one of the soldiers, the enigmatic Staff Sergeant Eric Lund.
But the world is at war and there is little time for romance. Someone in the Australian Intelligence Bureau is trading secrets and it's up to Stella and her uncompromising superior officer, Lieutenant Nick Ross, to find the traitor.
When Eric's team is scheduled to be deployed in a dangerous mission to the South West Pacific, Stella races to uncover the truth or risk not only Eric's life, but the security of Australia itself. Torn between protecting the ones she loves and her duty to her country, Stella chooses to pursue the truth at all costs.
Even if it means putting herself in the firing line...
In wartime Melbourne loose lips sink ships, so when Australian Women's Army sergeant Stella Aldridge overhears soldiers whispering about a revenge killing, she follows her instincts to investigate, despite finding herself drawn to one of the soldiers, the enigmatic Staff Sergeant Eric Lund.
But the world is at war and there is little time for romance. Someone in the Australian Intelligence Bureau is trading secrets and it's up to Stella and her uncompromising superior officer, Lieutenant Nick Ross, to find the traitor.
When Eric's team is scheduled to be deployed in a dangerous mission to the South West Pacific, Stella races to uncover the truth or risk not only Eric's life, but the security of Australia itself. Torn between protecting the ones she loves and her duty to her country, Stella chooses to pursue the truth at all costs.
Even if it means putting herself in the firing line...
432 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2015
4 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Burrows
10 books71 followers I was born and grew up in Perth, Western Australia, and am the author of five popular novels set in the Second World War. The latest is Ambulance Girls Under Fire, which is the second of a trilogy set in the London Blitz. And my non-fiction "Nursing in Australia: The Illustrated History" will be published by the National Library of Australia in November 2018.
I am a former lawyer with a passion for history (and three history degrees to prove it!!). And although I love the clear skies, beautiful beaches and easy-going atmosphere of my home town, I also adore the dreaming spires of Oxford, UK, where I read medical history.
I now see myself as a proud citizen of both cities, but for the time being am living in Oxford (although I go to Perth as often as I can).
I use my research and legal skills to make my historical novels as accurate as possible, and my imagination to make them as entertaining as I can.
I am a former lawyer with a passion for history (and three history degrees to prove it!!). And although I love the clear skies, beautiful beaches and easy-going atmosphere of my home town, I also adore the dreaming spires of Oxford, UK, where I read medical history.
I now see myself as a proud citizen of both cities, but for the time being am living in Oxford (although I go to Perth as often as I can).
I use my research and legal skills to make my historical novels as accurate as possible, and my imagination to make them as entertaining as I can.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 7, 2022
Australian Women's Army Sergeant Stella Aldridge was shocked when she overheard threats to kill an officer, but she didn't recognise voices, only that they spoke in Malay. In the darkness of the alley in Melbourne, she couldn't make out who the men were either. Cleared for the highest security level at APLO and working with Lieutenant Nick Ross to uncover secrets and the reason that missions that had been compromised, Stella found herself drawn to Staff Sergeant Eric Lund, and confused by those feelings. She also couldn't work out her boss, as Ross' moods changed like the Melbourne weather.
Danger was hovering and Stella was determined to discover what was going on. But when a body was discovered near their headquarters, she knew she'd have to work hard to stop the wrong person being convicted for murder. And would they find the spy and the evidence they needed to convict?
A Time of Secrets by Aussie author Deborah Burrows was a great read which is set in Melbourne in 1943. With forces being sent to Timor, Americans in the streets, dances almost nightly and agitated young men who'd seen too much when they'd been posted overseas, I thoroughly enjoyed this one, as I did each of Ms Burrows' Ambulance Girls trilogy. Highly recommended.
Danger was hovering and Stella was determined to discover what was going on. But when a body was discovered near their headquarters, she knew she'd have to work hard to stop the wrong person being convicted for murder. And would they find the spy and the evidence they needed to convict?
A Time of Secrets by Aussie author Deborah Burrows was a great read which is set in Melbourne in 1943. With forces being sent to Timor, Americans in the streets, dances almost nightly and agitated young men who'd seen too much when they'd been posted overseas, I thoroughly enjoyed this one, as I did each of Ms Burrows' Ambulance Girls trilogy. Highly recommended.
March 24, 2015
A Time of Secrets is Deborah Burrows' third wonderful novel blending Australia's wartime history with mystery and romance.
While Burrows previous novels take place in Perth, A Time of Secrets is set in Melbourne in 1943. Australian Women's Army sergeant Stella Aldridge is out shopping with her roommate and colleague, Dolly, when she overhears a whispered conversation in Malay between a group of Australian soldiers. Concerned with the implications she alerts her boss at the APLO, The Australian Pacific Liason Office, only to be drawn into a covert investigation headed by her superior officer, Lieutenant Nick Ross.
As Stella and her colleagues work to uncover the identity of the traitor sabotaging the Australian war effort they have to negotiate the politics of the APLO. I enjoyed the intrigue of the storyline and learning a little more about the war effort. In this, as in both of Burrows previous novels, A Stranger in My Street and Taking a Chance, Burrows' brings to life the experiences and contribution of women during wartime in Australia.
A minor subplot focuses on Stella's roommate Dolly, and the secrets she is keeping both from her fiance and Stella, while a second involves an axe wielding murderer stalking women in Melbourne. The theme of domestic violence is prominent in the novel. as is violence on the home front in general.
There is romance for Stella with the enigmatic soldier Staff Sergeant Eric Lund. A special operative, his life is at risk if the rumours of a traitor imbedded within the APLO are true. Stella's attraction to Lund is complicated by his capability for violence, her first husband who was killed in action physically abused her, and she is wary. A sort of love triangle also develops as Ross, an unapologetic ladies man, makes his interest in Stella clear.
Burrow's is a talented storyteller who brings wartime Australia to life. Offering an interesting mystery combined with strong characterisation and a well crafted plot, A Time of Secrets is an engaging historical fiction novel.
July 11, 2016
While I was reading this, I just kept muttering to myself; ‘This is so good, this is SO. GOOD!’ And I was only surprised because I went into it with no context or expectation, and came out absolutely head-over-heels in love with Burrow’s historical romance. It’s a little bit Foyle's War - if the protagonist was the infinitely cooler Sam Stewart. It’s set in Melbourne in 1943 and is about Australian Women's Army sergeant Stella Aldridge who overhears a murder plot while out on the town one night … the mystery/thriller aspect is brilliant, as is the historic accuracy and delicious romance with Staff Sergeant Eric Lund. I loved this – I’m now going to go back and read everything by Deborah Burrows.
February 8, 2015
Join us to launch this wonderful book on the 24th of February, 2015 at Mattie Furphy house in Swanbourne. 6pm for a 630 start. Feel free to dress up in your best 1940s austerity glamour.
January 9, 2022
A Time of Secrets is a historical book set in Melbourne during WW2 by Deborah Burrows. When Australian Women's Army Sergeant Stella Aldridge overhead soldiers talking about revenge killing, she decides to investigate. However, for Australian Women's Army Sergeant Stella Aldridge, it was a hard decision due to her feelings for Staff Sergeant Eric Lund, who was part of the conversation. Australian Women's Army Sergeant Stella Aldridge, with her boss Lieutenant Nick Ross was looking for a traitor in the Australian Intelligence Bureau on top of this investigation. Sergeant Stella Aldridge had to rush to find the truth. The readers of A Time of Secrets will continue to follow Australian Women's Army Sergeant Stella Aldridge to find out what happens.
A Times of Secrets is another fantastic book by Deborah Burrows. I engaged with this book from the first page and continued to the end of this book. I love Deborah Burrows portrayal of her characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. A Time of Secrets is well written and researched by Deborah Burrows. I like Deborah Burrows description of the settings of A Times of Secrets that complimented the book's plot.
The readers of A Times of Secrets will learn about the Australian Women's Army and its role during WW2. The readers of A Times of Secrets will learn about living in Melbourne during wartime.
I recommend this book.
A Times of Secrets is another fantastic book by Deborah Burrows. I engaged with this book from the first page and continued to the end of this book. I love Deborah Burrows portrayal of her characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. A Time of Secrets is well written and researched by Deborah Burrows. I like Deborah Burrows description of the settings of A Times of Secrets that complimented the book's plot.
The readers of A Times of Secrets will learn about the Australian Women's Army and its role during WW2. The readers of A Times of Secrets will learn about living in Melbourne during wartime.
I recommend this book.
May 4, 2015
Nobody could be more startled than me when declaring that A TIME OF SECRETS was a most enjoyable book to read. Startled because ostensibly it looks, feels, smells like a romance. With an historical bent, and some mystery within.
Certainly in reading this book the romance is foremost in the narrative, equalled by the difficulties of living within war-footing Melbourne, followed eventually by the mystery of the traitor within the ranks of the Australian Intelligence Bureau. What makes that balance work is probably the historical background though. Romance in that day makes sense. With the world being turned on its head, and the possibility that anyone could be lost, dead or captured overseas at any point, the idea that people want a personal connection is understandable. This author covers these aspects with restraint, making her characters stumble often enough to make them realistic and certainly not soppy or idealistic. The central character of Stella Aldridge is part of the strength. A woman widowed during the war, she's not exactly grieving a violent and nasty husband, but sad about the manner of his death, and the failure of her marriage. Her wariness with that background is understandable, as is her very human desire to get it right a second time around. Stella's no victim despite what has happened to her in the past. She's also no fool and (eventually) is able to pick the wolves from the hounds. The potential of a love triangle here is intriguing as well.
It's not a one hander story though and there are a number Aldridge's colleagues at the AIB who get a good airing. There's plenty of professional, as well as romantic tension in the AIB amongst many men and women vying for each other's attention. Aldridge's flatmate adds a level of mania with her ongoing relationship with her American beau constantly threatened by her dalliances with other men, although the standout character at home is the downstairs neighbour, Mrs Campbell who is fun, wise, cheeky and a great, if not slightly vague observer.
Within the mystery elements, there's a traitor being sought, and much of that quest is being done in secret. Specialist overseas missions - particularly into Papua New Guinea and nearby are going pear-shaped with the Japanese Army having specific and dangerous knowledge about what the Allies are up to. It could be that this traitor is very high up in AIB management, but there are clues in radio transcripts and the processing of information that eventually point Aldridge and her boss Nick Ross in the right direction. There's an interesting pointer in the back of the book that explains the real life situation that much of that mystery is based on. Obviously for this reader, once we got to this part of the plot things improved greatly and the way that the traitor was identified - and many of the little clues that indicated something was indeed badly wrong in the communications transmissions - were fascinating.
Throughout the book there are lots of other connections, a shared love of architecture and the descriptions of war-footing Melbourne, from the camps in parks in South Yarra, and the Toorak mansions seconded to house military groups, through to the brownout and the nightlife that people were determined to pursue in the face of rationing and shortages.
Goes to show that when the story's really well researched and told with great passion and authority, even something that has such a hefty dose of romance can work for a reader whose preference is normally to walk somewhere much darker than Melbourne in a 1943 brownout.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
Certainly in reading this book the romance is foremost in the narrative, equalled by the difficulties of living within war-footing Melbourne, followed eventually by the mystery of the traitor within the ranks of the Australian Intelligence Bureau. What makes that balance work is probably the historical background though. Romance in that day makes sense. With the world being turned on its head, and the possibility that anyone could be lost, dead or captured overseas at any point, the idea that people want a personal connection is understandable. This author covers these aspects with restraint, making her characters stumble often enough to make them realistic and certainly not soppy or idealistic. The central character of Stella Aldridge is part of the strength. A woman widowed during the war, she's not exactly grieving a violent and nasty husband, but sad about the manner of his death, and the failure of her marriage. Her wariness with that background is understandable, as is her very human desire to get it right a second time around. Stella's no victim despite what has happened to her in the past. She's also no fool and (eventually) is able to pick the wolves from the hounds. The potential of a love triangle here is intriguing as well.
It's not a one hander story though and there are a number Aldridge's colleagues at the AIB who get a good airing. There's plenty of professional, as well as romantic tension in the AIB amongst many men and women vying for each other's attention. Aldridge's flatmate adds a level of mania with her ongoing relationship with her American beau constantly threatened by her dalliances with other men, although the standout character at home is the downstairs neighbour, Mrs Campbell who is fun, wise, cheeky and a great, if not slightly vague observer.
Within the mystery elements, there's a traitor being sought, and much of that quest is being done in secret. Specialist overseas missions - particularly into Papua New Guinea and nearby are going pear-shaped with the Japanese Army having specific and dangerous knowledge about what the Allies are up to. It could be that this traitor is very high up in AIB management, but there are clues in radio transcripts and the processing of information that eventually point Aldridge and her boss Nick Ross in the right direction. There's an interesting pointer in the back of the book that explains the real life situation that much of that mystery is based on. Obviously for this reader, once we got to this part of the plot things improved greatly and the way that the traitor was identified - and many of the little clues that indicated something was indeed badly wrong in the communications transmissions - were fascinating.
Throughout the book there are lots of other connections, a shared love of architecture and the descriptions of war-footing Melbourne, from the camps in parks in South Yarra, and the Toorak mansions seconded to house military groups, through to the brownout and the nightlife that people were determined to pursue in the face of rationing and shortages.
Goes to show that when the story's really well researched and told with great passion and authority, even something that has such a hefty dose of romance can work for a reader whose preference is normally to walk somewhere much darker than Melbourne in a 1943 brownout.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
March 25, 2015
A Time of Secrets was an absolute joy to read. It is an engaging tale of wartime in Australia, combining mystery and romance with a distinctive Aussie touch.
I was drawn into this world immediately from the beginning of the book and was completely immersed in this era for the next few days as I read this book. I find this era quite romantic possibly because of the desperation because the insecurity of the future just makes the passion you feel that much more intense. And there was so much passion in this book and I don’t mean just the romantic kind. There was passion for live, for joyful living, for art and buildings, etc. This has definitely brought the book alive to me –I basically had a film reel going on in my head as I read.
There are quite a number of interesting characters from the very capable Stella Aldridge who kept her past close to her heart, the lively Dolly –Stella’s flatmate, the troubled Nick –Stella’s superior, the reserved Eric –Stella’s romantic interest, to the voluble old Mrs Campbell who lived in the apartment downstairs from Stella and who is actually very sharp. Never have I been so torn about a love triangle! There isn’t actually a love triangle in this book as Stella is very certain on who she’s attracted to but… I can’t help but feel for the other guy. I am very happy that Stella isn’t one of those characters who can’t make up her mind and I am satisfied with the ending of the story. And yet… I am also just a tad devastated.
In a way, A Time of Secrets reminds me of the Wonder Woman -tv series but without the super power thing, of course. Diana Prince (aka Wonder Woman) worked in the army’s intelligence services with Captain Steve Trevor as her superior and they caught spies, solved mysteries, and basically saved the day. I just adore this tv series, and I supposed it’s one of the reason why I connected so well with this book as it just so similar in setting. My one petty complaint though was that each time Stella complained about having to wear her khaki uniform all the time, I kept thinking of the green uniformed girl on the cover. I just can’t reconcile this though I still love the cover, it is gorgeous, but green is not khaki.
Whilst there was no surprises in terms of the resolution of the mystery, the plot itself was fine woven and a delight to read. I would unreservedly recommend this to historical fiction / mystery lovers. This was my first Burrows’ but I am keen to hunt down the rest of her works.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan Australia for copy of book in exchange of honest review
I was drawn into this world immediately from the beginning of the book and was completely immersed in this era for the next few days as I read this book. I find this era quite romantic possibly because of the desperation because the insecurity of the future just makes the passion you feel that much more intense. And there was so much passion in this book and I don’t mean just the romantic kind. There was passion for live, for joyful living, for art and buildings, etc. This has definitely brought the book alive to me –I basically had a film reel going on in my head as I read.
There are quite a number of interesting characters from the very capable Stella Aldridge who kept her past close to her heart, the lively Dolly –Stella’s flatmate, the troubled Nick –Stella’s superior, the reserved Eric –Stella’s romantic interest, to the voluble old Mrs Campbell who lived in the apartment downstairs from Stella and who is actually very sharp. Never have I been so torn about a love triangle! There isn’t actually a love triangle in this book as Stella is very certain on who she’s attracted to but… I can’t help but feel for the other guy. I am very happy that Stella isn’t one of those characters who can’t make up her mind and I am satisfied with the ending of the story. And yet… I am also just a tad devastated.
In a way, A Time of Secrets reminds me of the Wonder Woman -tv series but without the super power thing, of course. Diana Prince (aka Wonder Woman) worked in the army’s intelligence services with Captain Steve Trevor as her superior and they caught spies, solved mysteries, and basically saved the day. I just adore this tv series, and I supposed it’s one of the reason why I connected so well with this book as it just so similar in setting. My one petty complaint though was that each time Stella complained about having to wear her khaki uniform all the time, I kept thinking of the green uniformed girl on the cover. I just can’t reconcile this though I still love the cover, it is gorgeous, but green is not khaki.
Whilst there was no surprises in terms of the resolution of the mystery, the plot itself was fine woven and a delight to read. I would unreservedly recommend this to historical fiction / mystery lovers. This was my first Burrows’ but I am keen to hunt down the rest of her works.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan Australia for copy of book in exchange of honest review
April 11, 2015
I enjoyed this book- being a Melbournian I also enjoyed the descriptions of wartime Melbourne. I would definitely pick up another book by this author. Quick thoughts:
Things that slightly bugged me- I found some of the characterization inconsistent. The main love interest Eric is introduced with such menace that I found it hard to switch track when we were supposed to see him as part of a safe and violence free future for Stella. So much focus and time was spent with the 'alternate' love interest Nick that I found Eric faded into the background. I think there needed to be a few more scenes with Eric. Some of the characters seemed to only serve the plot- e.g. Dolly who I found interesting, conveniently leaving a wartime flat for Stella so that Eric could continue to stay over and then she virtually disappears from the story.
I'm all for women being independent and in control of their own lives- however when there is a violent axe murderer who has attacked a woman in your block of flats, I think it might be a good idea have someone stay with you- that might not be a time for the "I just want to be left alone speech." That annoyed me a bit.
Having said that- I did enjoy the book. I didn't guess the baddie, I liked the friendships with the other women in the service, the descriptions of Yanks in Melbourne.
Things that slightly bugged me- I found some of the characterization inconsistent. The main love interest Eric is introduced with such menace that I found it hard to switch track when we were supposed to see him as part of a safe and violence free future for Stella. So much focus and time was spent with the 'alternate' love interest Nick that I found Eric faded into the background. I think there needed to be a few more scenes with Eric. Some of the characters seemed to only serve the plot- e.g. Dolly who I found interesting, conveniently leaving a wartime flat for Stella so that Eric could continue to stay over and then she virtually disappears from the story.
I'm all for women being independent and in control of their own lives- however when there is a violent axe murderer who has attacked a woman in your block of flats, I think it might be a good idea have someone stay with you- that might not be a time for the "I just want to be left alone speech." That annoyed me a bit.
Having said that- I did enjoy the book. I didn't guess the baddie, I liked the friendships with the other women in the service, the descriptions of Yanks in Melbourne.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2016
A slow star but once I got into the story I really enjoyed it and did not want it to end. Great characters.
June 29, 2017
The characters in this book dance around each other trying to find the rhythm of life during a war. Each has redeeming features but equally, displays qualities that are not likeable. They move through their lives drawing deeper into a mystery that threatens to cost more lives if not resolved while putting the characters in the path of danger themselves. You point the finger at one character only to point it at another a few pages later! A great read.
September 15, 2017
'A Time for Secrets' by Deborah Burrows was an engrossing novel of the war years, focussing on the secret work undertaken by men and women stationed in Melbourne. With a lot of research under her belt, Burrows is able to vividly recreate the atmosphere of wartime Melbourne. An intrepid heroine, a romance, a spy to catch, a lively social scene, and some quirky characters, were enough to keep me immersed in the era.
March 21, 2019
A good mystery/romance set in Melbourne during the second world war.
Writing was a bit plain and unemotional sometimes, and it was a bit like a history lesson with a lot of background information being "explained" to the reader. But I enjoyed it overall and was engaged right to the end. Not too predictable, and yet a satisfying outcome.
Also really nice to read something set in Australia for once.
Writing was a bit plain and unemotional sometimes, and it was a bit like a history lesson with a lot of background information being "explained" to the reader. But I enjoyed it overall and was engaged right to the end. Not too predictable, and yet a satisfying outcome.
Also really nice to read something set in Australia for once.
September 22, 2017
I wasn't convinced by the main character and I found some events a bit too convenient. I did like the story and the flow of it. I was hoping for another "Stranger In My Street", however this one didn't live up to it.
June 1, 2017
I enjoyed this story, interesting plot and characters. Set in melbourne which is cool too
July 4, 2017
This was a fantastic read. Felt very authentic and well described. Some strong characters and a very enjoyable last half that made it a real challenge to put down!
December 19, 2015
A Time of Secrets is Deborah Burrows third novel that successfully combines elements of mystery, murder and romance all wrapped up in an Australian wartime setting. Burrows latest novel follows Stella Aldridge, a woman who has signed up for the Australian Women Army and is based in Melbourne in 1943. Stella is placed in a position working in Intelligence, after it is discovered that her background knowledge of language would make her an asset to the team. Stella is a widow and former artist, but she is determined the serve her country, but takes care to protect herself and others around her. However, danger seems to attract Stella, as she becomes embroiled in a murder mystery hitting the very centre of her work and home life. A love triangle involving Stella and two soldiers also complicates her life further at a time where lives are at risk.
A Time of Secrets is my third helping of Burrows work and again, it has left me craving more from this excellent historical fiction writer. As I hail from Perth, at first I was almost a little disappointed to discover that Burrows latest novel had switched locations from Perth to Melbourne, which is where her previous two novels were set. However, this feeling soon went away as there were still some small references to Perth - two of the main male soldier characters, who become embroiled in a love triangle with Stella, come from Perth. My disappointment also melted away as soon as I read the wonderful descriptions of Melbourne during wartime. Burrows’ writing allows the reader to become completely immersed in this time period and setting, her historical detail was simply fantastic. What I also loved about this book was the mood and tone Burrows manages to capture. Melbourne during World War Two was an exciting, dangerous and frankly a perfect time to fall in love. The romance side of this book was so absorbing, the intense feelings that arise at a time of living for the moment was such a joy to read. I was torn along with Stella, about which man she was going to chose. The ending was absolutely satisfying for me in terms of both the murder mystery and romance. I still couldn’t help but feel for the poor soldier who Stella has to make the heartbreaking choice to cast aside.
A Time of Secrets is a book that lives up to its very apt title. It is jammed packed full of secrets, intrigue, mystery, wartime history and comes complete with a wonderful romance. Burrows shows readers she is a force to be reckoned with in the Australian historical fiction genre. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for her readers next.
A Time of Secrets is my third helping of Burrows work and again, it has left me craving more from this excellent historical fiction writer. As I hail from Perth, at first I was almost a little disappointed to discover that Burrows latest novel had switched locations from Perth to Melbourne, which is where her previous two novels were set. However, this feeling soon went away as there were still some small references to Perth - two of the main male soldier characters, who become embroiled in a love triangle with Stella, come from Perth. My disappointment also melted away as soon as I read the wonderful descriptions of Melbourne during wartime. Burrows’ writing allows the reader to become completely immersed in this time period and setting, her historical detail was simply fantastic. What I also loved about this book was the mood and tone Burrows manages to capture. Melbourne during World War Two was an exciting, dangerous and frankly a perfect time to fall in love. The romance side of this book was so absorbing, the intense feelings that arise at a time of living for the moment was such a joy to read. I was torn along with Stella, about which man she was going to chose. The ending was absolutely satisfying for me in terms of both the murder mystery and romance. I still couldn’t help but feel for the poor soldier who Stella has to make the heartbreaking choice to cast aside.
A Time of Secrets is a book that lives up to its very apt title. It is jammed packed full of secrets, intrigue, mystery, wartime history and comes complete with a wonderful romance. Burrows shows readers she is a force to be reckoned with in the Australian historical fiction genre. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for her readers next.
March 20, 2015
I met Deborah Burrows back in 2012 when she was a guest author at Stories on Stage. She had just released her first book, A Stranger in My Street, a murder-mystery-romance set in Perth in the 1940s. What impressed me then was her knowledge of, and clear fascination with, the history of the time. In A Time of Secrets, this fascination with wartime Australia continues, but this murder-mystery is set in Melbourne. I’m not sure if there was a marketing decision behind that (a Melbourne setting may be thought to have more overseas and/or domestic appeal) or whether Burrows has a personal interest in Melbourne and simply wanted a change of scene.
A Time of Secrets is a story of truth, lies, revenge, secrets, national security and murder, with a bit of love and romance thrown in there as well. The American soldiers are in town, drawing the ire of the Australian men, as they attract the women with gifts, flattery and the promise of fun nights on the town. Although Australian Women’s Army sergeant Stella Aldridge is wary of men after a difficult first marriage, she is happy to dance at night, but keep romance at arms’ length. When she meets Staff Sergeant Eric Lund, she has mixed feelings – he is very attractive, but something about him reminds her of her late husband.
There’s little time for romance anyway. There’s a traitor in the midst of the Australian Intelligence Bureau and Stella has been seconded to work with Lieutenant Nick Ross, who has a history with Eric, to uncover the responsible party. When she overhears soldiers whispering about a revenge killing she wonders what its connection is to the investigation, but to find out, she has to put herself in the firing line. To do otherwise is unthinkable: Eric’s team has deployed in a dangerous mission to the South West Pacific, and if Stella doesn’t find out the truth his life, and the security of Australia itself, will be at risk.
Burrows delivers an interesting and intriguing read that not only offers an insight into Australian wartime life, but also looks into themes of domestic violence, friendship and relationships, with the murder-mystery and love triangle aspects adding to the tension of the latter part of the book. I could relate to Stella’s reactions, and applauded her for trying to help one of her colleagues, who was caught up in an abusive relationship. It’s an important message – don’t look the other way.
Although I found the story line slowed for a while in the second half, the murder and resulting drama, and the emerging love triangle picked things up for me. Overall, though, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers of wartime historical fiction.
A Time of Secrets is a story of truth, lies, revenge, secrets, national security and murder, with a bit of love and romance thrown in there as well. The American soldiers are in town, drawing the ire of the Australian men, as they attract the women with gifts, flattery and the promise of fun nights on the town. Although Australian Women’s Army sergeant Stella Aldridge is wary of men after a difficult first marriage, she is happy to dance at night, but keep romance at arms’ length. When she meets Staff Sergeant Eric Lund, she has mixed feelings – he is very attractive, but something about him reminds her of her late husband.
There’s little time for romance anyway. There’s a traitor in the midst of the Australian Intelligence Bureau and Stella has been seconded to work with Lieutenant Nick Ross, who has a history with Eric, to uncover the responsible party. When she overhears soldiers whispering about a revenge killing she wonders what its connection is to the investigation, but to find out, she has to put herself in the firing line. To do otherwise is unthinkable: Eric’s team has deployed in a dangerous mission to the South West Pacific, and if Stella doesn’t find out the truth his life, and the security of Australia itself, will be at risk.
Burrows delivers an interesting and intriguing read that not only offers an insight into Australian wartime life, but also looks into themes of domestic violence, friendship and relationships, with the murder-mystery and love triangle aspects adding to the tension of the latter part of the book. I could relate to Stella’s reactions, and applauded her for trying to help one of her colleagues, who was caught up in an abusive relationship. It’s an important message – don’t look the other way.
Although I found the story line slowed for a while in the second half, the murder and resulting drama, and the emerging love triangle picked things up for me. Overall, though, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers of wartime historical fiction.
May 6, 2015
A Time of Secrets is the third novel by Deborah Burrows and the third set in World War II, though this one boasts a change of scenery and is set in Melbourne as opposed to Perth as were the previous two. I read and loved A Stranger In My Street back in 2012 so was thrilled to see this one come across my desk. It took me longer to get to than I would have liked but I think the timing ended up perfect. I read it in the week leading up to ANZAC day and I sit writing this on the eve of ANZAC day when we are all remembering the brave men and women that fought for our country.
In wartime Melbourne there are army uniforms everywhere, both American and Australian. The world is at war and in Melbourne the fighting is often between the Australians and the Americans as the Americans woo Australian women with public displays of affection and gifts that the Australians just can’t get their hands on in this time of rationing.
Burrows has woven an intricate tale of romance, intrigue and history that is difficult to put down. To then discover that parts of the narrative were modelled on an actual intelligence mission and an actual branch of the Allied Intelligence Bureau made the book that much more captivating.
Stella Aldridge is a sergeant in the the Australian Women’s Army working at the APLO (Australian Pacific Liaison Office), a department widely believed to be about spreading propaganda; which is only one of their roles. The more important role is the organisation of intelligence gathering missions in enemy territory.
I found Stella to be quite a contradiction because she comes across as quite proper but as we get to know her we uncover an artistic past in which she enjoyed intimate encounters, she is widowed and yet she keeps her distance from men now and will only cultivate platonic friendships.
There is a lot going on in A Time of Secrets and with Stella working in Intelligence it becomes crystal clear where the term ‘loose lips sink ships’ came from. You can never be sure who can be trusted and you need to be wary of those who ask lots of questions. The book is set in wartime so there is lots of history here about Melbourne during WWII going on in the background. The American marines here sweeping our women off their feet, the rations, the brownouts, the fraternisation rules (and their flaunting).
The remainder of the review is live at: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
In wartime Melbourne there are army uniforms everywhere, both American and Australian. The world is at war and in Melbourne the fighting is often between the Australians and the Americans as the Americans woo Australian women with public displays of affection and gifts that the Australians just can’t get their hands on in this time of rationing.
Burrows has woven an intricate tale of romance, intrigue and history that is difficult to put down. To then discover that parts of the narrative were modelled on an actual intelligence mission and an actual branch of the Allied Intelligence Bureau made the book that much more captivating.
Stella Aldridge is a sergeant in the the Australian Women’s Army working at the APLO (Australian Pacific Liaison Office), a department widely believed to be about spreading propaganda; which is only one of their roles. The more important role is the organisation of intelligence gathering missions in enemy territory.
I found Stella to be quite a contradiction because she comes across as quite proper but as we get to know her we uncover an artistic past in which she enjoyed intimate encounters, she is widowed and yet she keeps her distance from men now and will only cultivate platonic friendships.
There is a lot going on in A Time of Secrets and with Stella working in Intelligence it becomes crystal clear where the term ‘loose lips sink ships’ came from. You can never be sure who can be trusted and you need to be wary of those who ask lots of questions. The book is set in wartime so there is lots of history here about Melbourne during WWII going on in the background. The American marines here sweeping our women off their feet, the rations, the brownouts, the fraternisation rules (and their flaunting).
The remainder of the review is live at: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
May 23, 2015
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway. Many thanks to the author and publisher.
I have really enjoyed this novel and the characters in it. The setting during WW2 and in Melbourne made for a great backdrop to the action. It is not a heavyweight novel, but not what I would consider chick-lit either.
This book is a great stand-a-lone story or could be part of a collection of books set during this period.
Personally, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy stories set in this country and period.
I have really enjoyed this novel and the characters in it. The setting during WW2 and in Melbourne made for a great backdrop to the action. It is not a heavyweight novel, but not what I would consider chick-lit either.
This book is a great stand-a-lone story or could be part of a collection of books set during this period.
Personally, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy stories set in this country and period.
June 10, 2017
This novel follows Stella and the trials she, and other women, face while working in Melbourne during WWII. Secrets, lies, complex characters (good, bad and in between), murder and romance - this book has it all!
I liked the way the author captured the setting of Melbourne during this time and also the weather! I read much of this book travelling in Melbourne (including along Bourke Street) and it was also raining most of the time!
**I received this book through a goodreads giveaway
I liked the way the author captured the setting of Melbourne during this time and also the weather! I read much of this book travelling in Melbourne (including along Bourke Street) and it was also raining most of the time!
**I received this book through a goodreads giveaway
April 7, 2015
A fascinating look into the American soldiers here in Melbourne during the Second World War and the Australian secret services that helped with the war effort. If you know Melbourne you'll recognize a lot of the landmarks. Very well researched, even down to the architecture of the time. Easy to read and great characters. Loved it.
June 22, 2016
Historically set, love-triangle romance, who-dunnit mystery: ticks boxes for me. I enjoyed the characterisation. Language felt clumsy at times, but overall a satisfying read.
April 13, 2015
Another great read by Deborah Burrows based on women serving their country in Australia during WWII.
March 31, 2015
Another great book from Deborah combining all the elements of reading that i love, mystery, murder and romance.
May 23, 2015
Fantastic read hard to put it down.
August 1, 2015
Loved the historical elements of the book, could picture several of the areas in the book
August 26, 2015
A fantastic Australian wartime mystery with great characters. Loved it!
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