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Young Detective Dave Burrows
Red Dirt Country
Detective Dave Burrows returns in another suspenseful rural crime novel set in the outback of Australia
"Nobody does rural fiction quite like Fleur McDonald." — Weekly Times
Returning to Perth after a near-fatal undercover case in outback Queensland, Dave Burrows, now a Detective Senior Constable in the stock squad, receives an ultimatum from his deeply unhappy wife, Melinda.
Before Dave and Mel's problems can be resolved, Dave is sent to the far north of Australia on a stock theft investigation. He finds two cattle stations deep in a complex underbelly of racial divide, family secrets, long-repeated lies, kidnapping, and murder.
Facing one of the biggest challenges of his policing life and the heartbreaking prospect of losing his family, Dave can't imagine things getting worse. But there's a hidden danger, intent on revenge, coming right for him.
"Nobody does rural fiction quite like Fleur McDonald." — Weekly Times
Returning to Perth after a near-fatal undercover case in outback Queensland, Dave Burrows, now a Detective Senior Constable in the stock squad, receives an ultimatum from his deeply unhappy wife, Melinda.
Before Dave and Mel's problems can be resolved, Dave is sent to the far north of Australia on a stock theft investigation. He finds two cattle stations deep in a complex underbelly of racial divide, family secrets, long-repeated lies, kidnapping, and murder.
Facing one of the biggest challenges of his policing life and the heartbreaking prospect of losing his family, Dave can't imagine things getting worse. But there's a hidden danger, intent on revenge, coming right for him.
408 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2021
75 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Fleur McDonald
44 books532 followersAfter growing up on a farm near Orroroo in South Australia, Fleur McDonald’s first job was jillarooing in the outback. She has been involved in agriculture all her life, including helping manage a 8000-acre station for twenty years. Today Fleur and her energetic kelpie, Jack, live in Esperance, Western Australia,
Fleur is the author of 23 bestselling novels and two children's books.
Fleur chats about her daily writing life on her blog http://fleurmcdonald.com,
Facebook - Fleur McDonald Author
Instagram @fleurmcdonald
Tiktok @fleurmcdonaldauthor
Fleur is the author of 23 bestselling novels and two children's books.
Fleur chats about her daily writing life on her blog http://fleurmcdonald.com,
Facebook - Fleur McDonald Author
Instagram @fleurmcdonald
Tiktok @fleurmcdonaldauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 27, 2021
Detective Dave Burrows is recovering at home in Perth from injuries from his last undercover case in outback Queensland. Dave's wife, Melinda, was heavily pregnant with their second child and she wasn't looking forward to him going back to work. Knowing all too well that his new job as a Stock Squad along with his new title of Detective Senior Constable would put him back in the line of danger once again. But Dave's work meant a great deal to him and he was looking forward to going back to work. His first job was to investigate stock theft in the north of Australia. Dave was doing all he could, but it was turning out to be more difficult than he first imagine, but Dave wouldn’t give up until he found the answers he was looking for.
Aussie author Fleur McDonald has once again written a fabulous book in the Detective Dave Burrows series. Suspense, crime and romance are all in this one and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. Highly recommended.
March 30, 2020
Review and giveaway (Australia only)
https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
In Red Dirt Country Fleur McDonald takes her readers to the heat, dust and isolation of far north Western Australia.
Home for the last six months recovering from a gunshot wound Dave Burrows is eager to commence his new job on the stock squad. His pregnant wife Melinda is not so keen for him to leave.
Through Melinda and Dave, marriage to a policeman is explored as Fleur McDonald gives a well rounded account of both party’s feelings. I could see that Dave and Melinda were very much in love but neither wanted to give in. Melinda’s fear of him dying was overwhelming her and Dave couldn’t let go of his dream job.
His first job is in far north WA on a cattle stealing investigation. Under the guidance of Bob Holden we follow a thorough investigation and rookie Dave has a lot to learn from his superior. Fleur McDonald’s extensive knowledge of the cattle farms, how they are run and how cattle could be stolen amazed me.
Red Dirt Country has an intricate plot however it flows so easily and naturally proving McDonald is a master at outback story telling.
Dave isn’t as front line of the danger in this story as he was in Without a Doubt and his boss and mentor, Bob, and aboriginal lease holder, Kevin, shine in this story as much as Dave.
With themes of racial divide, bad blood handed down through generations, breaking down long held perceptions of crooked cops and a generation trying to make a better future for all Red Dirt Country is an engrossing and credible read.
The third book featuring Det Dave Burrows reads well as a stand alone with a new investigation introduced and wrapped up.
A cheeky little teaser at the end has me eager for the next book. And I think it will be a breath-holder!
* I received a copy from the publisher
https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
In Red Dirt Country Fleur McDonald takes her readers to the heat, dust and isolation of far north Western Australia.
Home for the last six months recovering from a gunshot wound Dave Burrows is eager to commence his new job on the stock squad. His pregnant wife Melinda is not so keen for him to leave.
Through Melinda and Dave, marriage to a policeman is explored as Fleur McDonald gives a well rounded account of both party’s feelings. I could see that Dave and Melinda were very much in love but neither wanted to give in. Melinda’s fear of him dying was overwhelming her and Dave couldn’t let go of his dream job.
His first job is in far north WA on a cattle stealing investigation. Under the guidance of Bob Holden we follow a thorough investigation and rookie Dave has a lot to learn from his superior. Fleur McDonald’s extensive knowledge of the cattle farms, how they are run and how cattle could be stolen amazed me.
Red Dirt Country has an intricate plot however it flows so easily and naturally proving McDonald is a master at outback story telling.
Dave isn’t as front line of the danger in this story as he was in Without a Doubt and his boss and mentor, Bob, and aboriginal lease holder, Kevin, shine in this story as much as Dave.
With themes of racial divide, bad blood handed down through generations, breaking down long held perceptions of crooked cops and a generation trying to make a better future for all Red Dirt Country is an engrossing and credible read.
The third book featuring Det Dave Burrows reads well as a stand alone with a new investigation introduced and wrapped up.
A cheeky little teaser at the end has me eager for the next book. And I think it will be a breath-holder!
* I received a copy from the publisher
October 16, 2020
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
Red Dirt Country by Fleur McDonald is an action packed rural crime mystery.
After being home for six months recovering from a serious gunshot wound Detective Dave Burrows is ecstatic to commence his new job as an member of the stock quad in Western Australia. His first assignment is to investigate livestock being stolen from an Aboriginal owned and managed station along with his new partner and mentor Bob Holden.
Dave’s wife Mel is heavily pregnant with high blood pressure issues and a young toddler in tow, she is not keen for Dave to go back to work. Early in his new role Dave finds himself travelling away for work more than once which creates cracks in his marriage.
Themes of racial divide, police corruption, family secrets, crime, murder and relationships feature in this story.
A great read with an engaging storyline in an outback setting. My knowledge of cattle stations and how they are run is considerably more proficient after reading this book. Nice teaser at the conclusion, now I want the next book!
I was lucky to win a copy of this book so in appreciation I would like to thank Veronica from The Burgeoning Bookshelf & Allen & Unwin
Red Dirt Country by Fleur McDonald is an action packed rural crime mystery.
After being home for six months recovering from a serious gunshot wound Detective Dave Burrows is ecstatic to commence his new job as an member of the stock quad in Western Australia. His first assignment is to investigate livestock being stolen from an Aboriginal owned and managed station along with his new partner and mentor Bob Holden.
Dave’s wife Mel is heavily pregnant with high blood pressure issues and a young toddler in tow, she is not keen for Dave to go back to work. Early in his new role Dave finds himself travelling away for work more than once which creates cracks in his marriage.
Themes of racial divide, police corruption, family secrets, crime, murder and relationships feature in this story.
A great read with an engaging storyline in an outback setting. My knowledge of cattle stations and how they are run is considerably more proficient after reading this book. Nice teaser at the conclusion, now I want the next book!
I was lucky to win a copy of this book so in appreciation I would like to thank Veronica from The Burgeoning Bookshelf & Allen & Unwin
April 6, 2020
As Detective Dave Burrows recovered from his injury of his last operation in their home in Perth, his wife Mel and daughter Bec were by his side. Mel was heavily pregnant with their second child, but she also didn’t want Dave to go back to work. His new job in the Stock Squad plus his new title of Detective Senior Constable made him proud, but he also knew Mel didn’t want him in the line of fire once again. When he was passed as fit for duty, his emotions were conflicting, but he was happy to head into work.
His new partner was an older detective who’d been in the business for years. After initial teething problems, Dave and Bob Holden got on well. When there were problems in the north of the state between stations with stock theft, Dave and Bob headed out there to do what they could. There were obvious tensions between the Aboriginal community who owned Spinifex Downs, and the neighbouring station. Would Dave and Bob find the answers they needed? They knew there were secrets and rumours; things the Elders refused to talk about. It made their work harder, but their determination was strong.
Red Dirt Country brings Dave Burrows to life once again and it’s in the earlier days of his career. Aussie author Fleur McDonald knows how to mix tension, suspense and danger through her stories and this one is brilliant! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all Ms McDonald’s books, and loved this one, hoping the next one isn’t too far away. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
His new partner was an older detective who’d been in the business for years. After initial teething problems, Dave and Bob Holden got on well. When there were problems in the north of the state between stations with stock theft, Dave and Bob headed out there to do what they could. There were obvious tensions between the Aboriginal community who owned Spinifex Downs, and the neighbouring station. Would Dave and Bob find the answers they needed? They knew there were secrets and rumours; things the Elders refused to talk about. It made their work harder, but their determination was strong.
Red Dirt Country brings Dave Burrows to life once again and it’s in the earlier days of his career. Aussie author Fleur McDonald knows how to mix tension, suspense and danger through her stories and this one is brilliant! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all Ms McDonald’s books, and loved this one, hoping the next one isn’t too far away. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2020
What an exciting read! Now I need the next in this series. What an ending!
April 1, 2020
Red Dirt Country is Fleur McDonald’s third book to feature Detective Dave Burrows, but the sixth in which he appears.
Several months after his undercover assignment chasing cattle thieves in North Queensland led to him being shot, Dave is relieved that he has finally been given the go ahead to return to work, gaining his dream job with the Perth Livestock Squad. His very pregnant wife, Mel, is not. Torn between his love for his family, and his passion for his job, Dave may be forced to make some difficult choices.
Dave’s first case in Western Australia partners him with his new chief, Bob Holden. Livestock is being stolen from an Aboriginal owned station, and the thefts are stirring up long held rivalries, spilling out across the community. While the identity of the culprits are easy to guess, I enjoyed the way in which the investigation unfolded. Bob and Dave work well as partners, with the senior proving to be a capable and canny, if not wholly traditional, mentor.
The case allows McDonald to explore the historical and current issues related to Aboriginal managed stations. I felt for Kevin, torn between his Elder’s warnings, and his own judgement. It’s disheartening that prejudice and resentment persist along racial lines, and the author captures that well.
McDonald also alludes to the continuing drought which places pressure on farmers, along with other common stressors like inheritance, and stock sale prices. Her knowledge and experience of farming ensures the authenticity of the setting, and her characters.
Ramping up the tension in the novel is Dave’s impending appearance at the trial of the crooked cop unmasked during the undercover North Queensland investigation. Bulldust, the mastermind behind the theft ring who has yet to be apprehended, is determined to avenge his destruction, and the threat he poses to Dave, and his family, is edging closer.
If you have read McDonald’s contemporary novels in which Dave has a role but does not feature, you will know how the relationship between Dave and Melinda pans out. In Red Dirt Country, Mel, heavily pregnant and suffering bouts of high blood pressure, is worried about Dave’s safety, and resentful of his return to work. Dave loves his wife, and children, but knows he wouldn’t be happy doing anything else. I felt that McDonald portrayed the feelings of both Dave and Mel sympathetically, there is no easy solution to the issue that divides them.
With its engaging mystery and authentic rural setting, I enjoyed Red Dirt Country, and the (sort of) cliff hanger has me anticipating the next instalment.
Several months after his undercover assignment chasing cattle thieves in North Queensland led to him being shot, Dave is relieved that he has finally been given the go ahead to return to work, gaining his dream job with the Perth Livestock Squad. His very pregnant wife, Mel, is not. Torn between his love for his family, and his passion for his job, Dave may be forced to make some difficult choices.
Dave’s first case in Western Australia partners him with his new chief, Bob Holden. Livestock is being stolen from an Aboriginal owned station, and the thefts are stirring up long held rivalries, spilling out across the community. While the identity of the culprits are easy to guess, I enjoyed the way in which the investigation unfolded. Bob and Dave work well as partners, with the senior proving to be a capable and canny, if not wholly traditional, mentor.
The case allows McDonald to explore the historical and current issues related to Aboriginal managed stations. I felt for Kevin, torn between his Elder’s warnings, and his own judgement. It’s disheartening that prejudice and resentment persist along racial lines, and the author captures that well.
McDonald also alludes to the continuing drought which places pressure on farmers, along with other common stressors like inheritance, and stock sale prices. Her knowledge and experience of farming ensures the authenticity of the setting, and her characters.
Ramping up the tension in the novel is Dave’s impending appearance at the trial of the crooked cop unmasked during the undercover North Queensland investigation. Bulldust, the mastermind behind the theft ring who has yet to be apprehended, is determined to avenge his destruction, and the threat he poses to Dave, and his family, is edging closer.
If you have read McDonald’s contemporary novels in which Dave has a role but does not feature, you will know how the relationship between Dave and Melinda pans out. In Red Dirt Country, Mel, heavily pregnant and suffering bouts of high blood pressure, is worried about Dave’s safety, and resentful of his return to work. Dave loves his wife, and children, but knows he wouldn’t be happy doing anything else. I felt that McDonald portrayed the feelings of both Dave and Mel sympathetically, there is no easy solution to the issue that divides them.
With its engaging mystery and authentic rural setting, I enjoyed Red Dirt Country, and the (sort of) cliff hanger has me anticipating the next instalment.
October 5, 2020
Red Dirt Country is book three in the David Burrows series by Fleur McDonald. Detective Senior Constable David Burrows finally started his dream job at the stock squad. The first case that Detective Senior Constable David Burrows caused him to go away from Perth and visit a rural community in the far north of Western Australia. However, David's wife, Melinda, was pregnant with their second child and became hungry with him. The readers of Red Dirt Country will continue to follow Detective Senior Constable David Burrows to find out what happens.
Red Dirt Country is another fantastic addition to this excellent series by Fleur McDonald. I engaged with the plot of Red Dirt Country from the first page, and I was unable to put the book down. I love Fleur McDonald portrayal of her characters of Red Dirt Country and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Fleur Mcdonald does an excellent job of laying out issues that affect rural communities. Red Dirt Country is well written and researched by Fleur McDonald.
The readers of Red Dirt Country will learn about the role of the stock squad in rural communities. Also, the readers of Red Dirt Country will understand the dangers when courts name witnesses.
I recommend this book.
Red Dirt Country is another fantastic addition to this excellent series by Fleur McDonald. I engaged with the plot of Red Dirt Country from the first page, and I was unable to put the book down. I love Fleur McDonald portrayal of her characters of Red Dirt Country and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Fleur Mcdonald does an excellent job of laying out issues that affect rural communities. Red Dirt Country is well written and researched by Fleur McDonald.
The readers of Red Dirt Country will learn about the role of the stock squad in rural communities. Also, the readers of Red Dirt Country will understand the dangers when courts name witnesses.
I recommend this book.
April 14, 2020
This latest episode in the Dave Burrows is a really great read. I have very much enjoyed the character of Dave since his first appearance. Looking forward to the next episode, it's going to be a good one!
April 1, 2020
Reviewed at: https://miclovesbooks.home.blog/2020/...
Fleur McDonald writes intriguing and suspenseful rural crime fiction set in the present, and the not so distant past. A couple of years ago, in my warped sense of the passage of time, in one of her present day crime novels there was an intriguing detective that fans fell for; yes I was one of them. He was a character that you just knew had an interesting past.
It seems that Dave, and his creator, decided they wanted the world to get to know him better and the early Dave series was born. This is a sequential series that releases in April consisting of Fool’s Gold, Without A Doubt and now Red Dirt Country. I am already eagerly anticipating the next book and it’s sad that it’s at least a year away.
These books are Dave’s story, he’s the main man and our only narrator. The present day novels where Dave appears have him sharing the limelight with a heroine and offers a dual narrative. The nature of the dual series means that it really isn’t imperative to read the books in order, you can follow the story well regardless of where you join the narrative.
Red Dirt Country sees Dave returned from an undercover operation that did not end well and nearing the end of his recuperation, itching to get back to work. He has enjoyed the months at home with his young daughter but misses his work, especially after having gained a spot on the stock squad.
Dave is physically recuperated but still suffering some nightmares, loving his time at home but itching to get to work on the stock squad, his long held career goal. He is thrilled to be back with his family and trying to make things work with Mel but it seems that love may not be enough.
Red Dirt Country takes Dave way out bush to a remote community that is suffering some cattle losses. Of course it isn’t a clear cut easy to solve case and there is generations of tension between neighbouring property owners that only adds to the mystery.
Tensions between Dave and Mel rise as he needs to leave home for work and she struggles with the fear of him being hurt again, not helped by the encouragement from her father. McDonald explores marriage and its trials, with the extra pressures of marriage to a police officer. Dave is supported by a couple of his close colleagues but he also finds an ally in an unlikely location which I thought added an extra layer to the relationships between Dave, Mel and her family.
The first case Dave is tasked with on the stock squad is in a remote community in the north of Western Australia, there is trouble brewing with missing cattle and all is definitely not what it seems.
Dave’s new superior has some habits that Dave definitely doesn’t agree with but he soon discovers that there is a lot you can learn from what isn’t said and the two slowly build a strong bond that I hope to see continue through many books to come. Bob Holden is long serving member of the force and a fount of knowledge for Dave, who is finally seeing the stock yards from a different perspective.
McDonald explores some deep cultural issues related to landholders, indigenous communities, the relationship of the police with the indigenous and just how easily the evils of the fathers can be passed down through the generations.
Kevin is an intelligent and passionate young indigenous man who is struggling to find his place in the world, he left his remote indigenous community to attend agricultural college and learn the best way to manage the land for the community and make it a successful haven for his people. His time away has made him an outsider with his people and he will never truly belong in the white man’s world. Still, Kevin is determined to do the best for his people and stop the cycles of the past. The elders don’t want trouble stirred up because they’ve seen the way these things end and they don’t want to see it happen again.
The closest town is Boogarin and it only has one police officer, a relatively new one and he’s determined to do the right thing. It doesn’t take him long to realise that the community at Spinifex Downs hasn’t always had a fair go with the police in the area and he has a way to go to prove that he isn’t like the police officers who served the town in the past.
McDonald has woven a gripping tale of generations old hurts, and secrets, brewing under the surface and a few brave men willing to buck the trends of the past and see justice done. The characters are sensitively drawn and all have their tale to tell, many of them not pretty and not what we would like to think is still happening in the 21st Century.
Alongside the case Dave is working with Bob Holden at Spinifex Downs we still have the continuing tale of Dave’s undercover case because of the trial. This story arc left me wondering about how deep, or how high, the corruption sometimes runs. The arc takes a backseat to the new case but it is still an extremely important piece of the narrative and one that I think will continue to run through at least a couple more books.
Red Dirt Country is a book I would have liked to devour in a sitting, if real life would allow me the luxury, and it ended with a quiet shock that left me crying out for the next instalment.
Most definitely part of a series but I think Red Dirt Country has the strength to be read as a standalone without sacrificing any of the enjoyment, though I think it would send people looking for more Dave Burrows tales.
Red Dirt Country is book #8 read for the Australian Women Writer’s Challenge 2020.
Fleur McDonald loves to hear from her readers and you can find her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Red Dirt Country is published by Allen & Unwin and is available now from Angus & Robertson Bookworld, Booktopia and where all good books are sold. In these uncertain times it would be great to try and support a local bookstore, many of the ones in my area have put systems in place to fulfil orders even though their physical stores may be closed to the public.
Fleur McDonald writes intriguing and suspenseful rural crime fiction set in the present, and the not so distant past. A couple of years ago, in my warped sense of the passage of time, in one of her present day crime novels there was an intriguing detective that fans fell for; yes I was one of them. He was a character that you just knew had an interesting past.
It seems that Dave, and his creator, decided they wanted the world to get to know him better and the early Dave series was born. This is a sequential series that releases in April consisting of Fool’s Gold, Without A Doubt and now Red Dirt Country. I am already eagerly anticipating the next book and it’s sad that it’s at least a year away.
These books are Dave’s story, he’s the main man and our only narrator. The present day novels where Dave appears have him sharing the limelight with a heroine and offers a dual narrative. The nature of the dual series means that it really isn’t imperative to read the books in order, you can follow the story well regardless of where you join the narrative.
Red Dirt Country sees Dave returned from an undercover operation that did not end well and nearing the end of his recuperation, itching to get back to work. He has enjoyed the months at home with his young daughter but misses his work, especially after having gained a spot on the stock squad.
Dave is physically recuperated but still suffering some nightmares, loving his time at home but itching to get to work on the stock squad, his long held career goal. He is thrilled to be back with his family and trying to make things work with Mel but it seems that love may not be enough.
Red Dirt Country takes Dave way out bush to a remote community that is suffering some cattle losses. Of course it isn’t a clear cut easy to solve case and there is generations of tension between neighbouring property owners that only adds to the mystery.
Tensions between Dave and Mel rise as he needs to leave home for work and she struggles with the fear of him being hurt again, not helped by the encouragement from her father. McDonald explores marriage and its trials, with the extra pressures of marriage to a police officer. Dave is supported by a couple of his close colleagues but he also finds an ally in an unlikely location which I thought added an extra layer to the relationships between Dave, Mel and her family.
The first case Dave is tasked with on the stock squad is in a remote community in the north of Western Australia, there is trouble brewing with missing cattle and all is definitely not what it seems.
Dave’s new superior has some habits that Dave definitely doesn’t agree with but he soon discovers that there is a lot you can learn from what isn’t said and the two slowly build a strong bond that I hope to see continue through many books to come. Bob Holden is long serving member of the force and a fount of knowledge for Dave, who is finally seeing the stock yards from a different perspective.
McDonald explores some deep cultural issues related to landholders, indigenous communities, the relationship of the police with the indigenous and just how easily the evils of the fathers can be passed down through the generations.
Kevin is an intelligent and passionate young indigenous man who is struggling to find his place in the world, he left his remote indigenous community to attend agricultural college and learn the best way to manage the land for the community and make it a successful haven for his people. His time away has made him an outsider with his people and he will never truly belong in the white man’s world. Still, Kevin is determined to do the best for his people and stop the cycles of the past. The elders don’t want trouble stirred up because they’ve seen the way these things end and they don’t want to see it happen again.
The closest town is Boogarin and it only has one police officer, a relatively new one and he’s determined to do the right thing. It doesn’t take him long to realise that the community at Spinifex Downs hasn’t always had a fair go with the police in the area and he has a way to go to prove that he isn’t like the police officers who served the town in the past.
McDonald has woven a gripping tale of generations old hurts, and secrets, brewing under the surface and a few brave men willing to buck the trends of the past and see justice done. The characters are sensitively drawn and all have their tale to tell, many of them not pretty and not what we would like to think is still happening in the 21st Century.
Alongside the case Dave is working with Bob Holden at Spinifex Downs we still have the continuing tale of Dave’s undercover case because of the trial. This story arc left me wondering about how deep, or how high, the corruption sometimes runs. The arc takes a backseat to the new case but it is still an extremely important piece of the narrative and one that I think will continue to run through at least a couple more books.
Red Dirt Country is a book I would have liked to devour in a sitting, if real life would allow me the luxury, and it ended with a quiet shock that left me crying out for the next instalment.
Most definitely part of a series but I think Red Dirt Country has the strength to be read as a standalone without sacrificing any of the enjoyment, though I think it would send people looking for more Dave Burrows tales.
Red Dirt Country is book #8 read for the Australian Women Writer’s Challenge 2020.
Fleur McDonald loves to hear from her readers and you can find her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Red Dirt Country is published by Allen & Unwin and is available now from Angus & Robertson Bookworld, Booktopia and where all good books are sold. In these uncertain times it would be great to try and support a local bookstore, many of the ones in my area have put systems in place to fulfil orders even though their physical stores may be closed to the public.
April 3, 2020
I really enjoy reading Fleur McDonald books, particularly when Dave Burrows is the detective. I had been anxiously waiting for this book to follow on from Without a Doubt, which was one of the best Fleur has written, in my opinion.
In some ways it did follow on but it wasn’t resolved. I was disappointed about that although I enjoyed the book.
I also like stories to be complete in each book; cliffhangers don’t do it for me. I can only imagine that there will be a follow on story, hopefully to complete the tale.
That said, there was much to recommend this story as a really good read. I particularly enjoyed the camaraderie of the Stock squad. Bob became a character of interest in the story after a bit of a shaky start. Showing Dave as a detective who can still learn things from more experienced officers was more realistic. Young men sometimes disregard the value of older men. It is part of the learning process.
The difficulties in Dave’s marriage made the story more realistic and lent sympathy to Dave, but also to his wife who was in a difficult situation. Marriages are under strain when one partner is absent for prolonged periods of time and the stress of injury or death would be constant.
I believe Kit’s character needed more development to reconcile his public image with his later actions, to add credibility to that part of the story.
I enjoyed reading the book and look forward to the next in the series. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In some ways it did follow on but it wasn’t resolved. I was disappointed about that although I enjoyed the book.
I also like stories to be complete in each book; cliffhangers don’t do it for me. I can only imagine that there will be a follow on story, hopefully to complete the tale.
That said, there was much to recommend this story as a really good read. I particularly enjoyed the camaraderie of the Stock squad. Bob became a character of interest in the story after a bit of a shaky start. Showing Dave as a detective who can still learn things from more experienced officers was more realistic. Young men sometimes disregard the value of older men. It is part of the learning process.
The difficulties in Dave’s marriage made the story more realistic and lent sympathy to Dave, but also to his wife who was in a difficult situation. Marriages are under strain when one partner is absent for prolonged periods of time and the stress of injury or death would be constant.
I believe Kit’s character needed more development to reconcile his public image with his later actions, to add credibility to that part of the story.
I enjoyed reading the book and look forward to the next in the series. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 14, 2024
Detective Dave Burrows has moved his family to Perth after an undercover case in outback Queensland left him injured after being shot.
Dave's wife is unhappy and doesn't like how much time his new job is keeping him away from home. He's recently joined the Stock Squad, spending time in outback Western Australia investigating missing cattle. The remains between land owners is rising and the pressure is on the squad to solve who is responsible for the missing cattle.
With a heavily pregnant wife at home with their toddler, Dave is torn between his love of the job and his responsibilities to his family. There's also a hidden danger - criminal associates of those he put away in Queensland are searching for him.
What a fantastic story this was! Although this isn't the first story about this detective, it was the first one I've read and I was easy to read as a stand alone. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. I loved the development of the characters and the story line and the edge of your seat ending left me wanting to read the next installment to find out what happens. Fleur McDonald has written an engaging and enjoyable rural crime novel. I love how the story dealt with the investigation but also drew out Dave's struggles between his love for his job, the camaraderie and satisfaction it brings, and the friction being away from his family causes.
Dave's wife is unhappy and doesn't like how much time his new job is keeping him away from home. He's recently joined the Stock Squad, spending time in outback Western Australia investigating missing cattle. The remains between land owners is rising and the pressure is on the squad to solve who is responsible for the missing cattle.
With a heavily pregnant wife at home with their toddler, Dave is torn between his love of the job and his responsibilities to his family. There's also a hidden danger - criminal associates of those he put away in Queensland are searching for him.
What a fantastic story this was! Although this isn't the first story about this detective, it was the first one I've read and I was easy to read as a stand alone. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. I loved the development of the characters and the story line and the edge of your seat ending left me wanting to read the next installment to find out what happens. Fleur McDonald has written an engaging and enjoyable rural crime novel. I love how the story dealt with the investigation but also drew out Dave's struggles between his love for his job, the camaraderie and satisfaction it brings, and the friction being away from his family causes.
June 6, 2020
The newly promoted Detective Senior Constable Dave Burrows has now joined the Stock Squad, and has returned to his unhappy pregnant wife and daughter in Perth. Before Dave can sort out his family problems he is sent away to investigate stock theft from an aboriginal community cattle station.
The investigation is started finding no leads, so Dave returns home to travel to Brisbane for the court case of his previous undercover operation involving a crooked cop, and a crooked group of musterers, of which two are still on the run. Dave presents the evidence for the case in court trying to keep his identity quiet, but the judge accidentally leaks where he lives.
Dave returns home to spend time with his family when he is called away to the aboriginal community again. Whilst he is away his wife has another daughter and he returns home for a day before returning
back to help solve the case of the missing stock which involves family secrets, abduction, lies, and murder.
The investigation is started finding no leads, so Dave returns home to travel to Brisbane for the court case of his previous undercover operation involving a crooked cop, and a crooked group of musterers, of which two are still on the run. Dave presents the evidence for the case in court trying to keep his identity quiet, but the judge accidentally leaks where he lives.
Dave returns home to spend time with his family when he is called away to the aboriginal community again. Whilst he is away his wife has another daughter and he returns home for a day before returning
back to help solve the case of the missing stock which involves family secrets, abduction, lies, and murder.
July 23, 2021
Dave Burrows is now where he wants to be in his career as a Detective Senior Constable in the stock squad. Whilst he is happy in his work, his home life isn't as content.
With a heavily pregnant wife and his daughter to take care of, Dave struggles to be in two places at once when his job needs him as well. At the same time, someone is out for revenge that will put everyone Dave holds dear in extreme danger..
Fleur McDonald is back on fine form with this installment. Mel still irritates me- she is absolutely demanding and isn't willing to support her husband at all. I honestly can't see their marriage surviving for much longer.
As always, Dad!Dave is just so adorable and soft with his children. He loves them so much.
I really miss Spencer and Dave's partnership as well. However, I do like his new partner, Bob. Brutally brash that it's endearing, Bob is proving to be a wonderful mentor for our outback detective!
But.. that cliffhanger though! 😮
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
With a heavily pregnant wife and his daughter to take care of, Dave struggles to be in two places at once when his job needs him as well. At the same time, someone is out for revenge that will put everyone Dave holds dear in extreme danger..
Fleur McDonald is back on fine form with this installment. Mel still irritates me- she is absolutely demanding and isn't willing to support her husband at all. I honestly can't see their marriage surviving for much longer.
As always, Dad!Dave is just so adorable and soft with his children. He loves them so much.
I really miss Spencer and Dave's partnership as well. However, I do like his new partner, Bob. Brutally brash that it's endearing, Bob is proving to be a wonderful mentor for our outback detective!
But.. that cliffhanger though! 😮
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
April 21, 2020
Australia has created a growing coterie of talented female authors who collectively and individually are picturing the uniqueness of the lucky country's small towns across the continent.
Fleur McDonald's "Red Dirt Country" is the latest in a string of novels which capture the essence of these small towns and the Australians who have built these communities across the decades.
Dave Burrows has landed in an unfamiliar town as a Senior Constable on the Stock squad, the purpose of which was to deal with the rampant rustling prevalent on the nearby spreads. Dave was waiting for the green light to restart his career following injuries he sustained while he was under cover back in Queensland. Dave and his wife Mel are going through a tough time as she was afraid he would be attacked again and want him to leave the force.
Dave is a smart cookie but also under pressure, and he doesn't know who he should trust in his new location and role. Fleur McDonald's characterisations are brilliant. You can feel the dust in the air of the Australian backblocks. Very much a read to savour.
Fleur McDonald's "Red Dirt Country" is the latest in a string of novels which capture the essence of these small towns and the Australians who have built these communities across the decades.
Dave Burrows has landed in an unfamiliar town as a Senior Constable on the Stock squad, the purpose of which was to deal with the rampant rustling prevalent on the nearby spreads. Dave was waiting for the green light to restart his career following injuries he sustained while he was under cover back in Queensland. Dave and his wife Mel are going through a tough time as she was afraid he would be attacked again and want him to leave the force.
Dave is a smart cookie but also under pressure, and he doesn't know who he should trust in his new location and role. Fleur McDonald's characterisations are brilliant. You can feel the dust in the air of the Australian backblocks. Very much a read to savour.
December 18, 2021
I had to renew my library card so while at the library I picked up 3 Aussie author books since I mainly read electronically now. (strange but good) With the cool days good opportunity to read and catch up on Aussie talented authors and ponder 2022 tourism open border! still more for me to read yet.
Dave Burrows, detective past when in the stock squad and had a boss/ mentor in Bob. Got to like Dave even if he is fictional.
Mark (his father in law what I remember previously wasn't a unlikeable character and hasn't got better!) Mel (like other wives of police officers have the choice daily that their husbands career/job is dangerous and may not return to them. also they could be victims of violence in silence) Spencer and Bob a listening ear for Dave to vent.
The story left wide open to continue on in future books (with unfinished plots)
Dave Burrows, detective past when in the stock squad and had a boss/ mentor in Bob. Got to like Dave even if he is fictional.
Mark (his father in law what I remember previously wasn't a unlikeable character and hasn't got better!) Mel (like other wives of police officers have the choice daily that their husbands career/job is dangerous and may not return to them. also they could be victims of violence in silence) Spencer and Bob a listening ear for Dave to vent.
The story left wide open to continue on in future books (with unfinished plots)
June 7, 2020
Another great Detective Dave Burrows book. I loved the description in this book, so spot on for the north of WA? I wonder if the next book about him will have the Queensland baddies from catching up with him? I noticed at the end of this book that a “stranger” made contact with Mel in the supermarket. How stupid of the Judge in Queensland to say Dave could go back to Perth. At least now the story will continue.
The only fault I could see in this book was that Mel went to Princess Margaret hospital to have Alice. Princess Margaret hospital was a children’s hospital and never delivered babies. If babies were unwell they were taken there after birth.
I’m looking forward to the next book.
The only fault I could see in this book was that Mel went to Princess Margaret hospital to have Alice. Princess Margaret hospital was a children’s hospital and never delivered babies. If babies were unwell they were taken there after birth.
I’m looking forward to the next book.
August 27, 2020
Returning to Perth after a near-fatal under-cover case in outback Queensland, Dave Burrows, now a Detective senior Constable in the stock squad, receives an ultimatum from his deeply unhappy wife.
Before Dave and Mel’s problems can be resolved, Dave is sent to the far north of Australia on a stock theft investigation. He finds two cattle stations deep in a complex underbelly of racial divide, family secrets, long-repeated lies, kidnapping and murder.
Facing one of the biggest challenges of his policing life and the heartbreaking prospect of losing his family, Dave can’t imagine things getting worse. But there’s a hidden danger, intent on revenge, coming right for him
Before Dave and Mel’s problems can be resolved, Dave is sent to the far north of Australia on a stock theft investigation. He finds two cattle stations deep in a complex underbelly of racial divide, family secrets, long-repeated lies, kidnapping and murder.
Facing one of the biggest challenges of his policing life and the heartbreaking prospect of losing his family, Dave can’t imagine things getting worse. But there’s a hidden danger, intent on revenge, coming right for him
September 25, 2021
Enjoyed this intriguing tale.
Pastoral stations in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia.
Cattle rustling, missing people, an old stocky copper and a new stocky copper, who has his own family troubles, and racial issues make up this story.
It was good to read, I was surprised to see there were some other books with the main character, Dave Burrows. So I’m going to have to get those to read.
Dave’s wife and her father are selfish so and so’s, but I know that being the partner of a copper can be hard.
Pastoral stations in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia.
Cattle rustling, missing people, an old stocky copper and a new stocky copper, who has his own family troubles, and racial issues make up this story.
It was good to read, I was surprised to see there were some other books with the main character, Dave Burrows. So I’m going to have to get those to read.
Dave’s wife and her father are selfish so and so’s, but I know that being the partner of a copper can be hard.
January 12, 2024
It was just ok. I got through it for some unknown reason. The wife was such a whinging cow - she knew she'd married a cop and that's what he loved to do, she should have been happy he had a job! The characters were annoying. I might try another of her books purely because I like reading about the Australian outback. The author's done a good job of envoking some kind of emotion with the reader even if it is annoyance!
April 9, 2020
Love Fleur McDonald’s book and I eagerly awaited this book. I loved it and couldn’t put it down (perfect for the current situation to help with staying home). I was excited for a resolution to the cliff hanger in the last novel but that didn’t happen, I’ll just have to wait for the next instalment. Well played Fleur McDonald! I didn’t expect that!
April 1, 2023
WOW, loved it - Fleur McDonald is a great writer and I love her books, especially Detective Dave Burrows - I can't wait till I read the next in the series, but I have to buy it first!!! Wish I realised it was the continuation of Red Dirt Country. Action, suspense, love, family, problems, work, commitment - has it all.
November 24, 2023
You have done it again Fleur. Another brilliant book in the Dave Burrows series. A fantastic series. This was action packed and one of the quickest books I have ever read. I didn't want to put this book down. The on going rival between Dave and Bulldust reared is ugly head again with no doubt more to come. I am looking forward to more of this series.
July 27, 2020
Loved this one in the series. Another great read and a great adventure. I love the characters and how cranky Dave gets when he is called “son”. I still have a few to read in this series and looking forward to them.
November 26, 2021
A lively paced, engaging story set in contemporary rural Australia. The lead characters have flaws but retain strong morals. The story incorporates issues of race but without an in depth look or illumination.
January 18, 2022
Good points: an Aussie novel, well-written, complex characters
Bad points: just the swearing. Exponentially increased as the tension grew. But meant I couldn’t enjoy the story. Wish McDonald tried something like Peter Robinson did…
Bad points: just the swearing. Exponentially increased as the tension grew. But meant I couldn’t enjoy the story. Wish McDonald tried something like Peter Robinson did…
February 17, 2024
Dave Burrows gave me an insight into what it is like to be a detective, to juggle his marriage to his wife Mel as he investigates missing cattle in the top end of Western Australia. I liked this suspense filled book, which kept me intrigued until the last page. Thanks Fleur 🙂
September 27, 2024
Loved it! Dave and his past issues are highlighted in a way that clarifies his character in other novels. I enjoyed the story of the Aboriginal people and their distrust of white people.
Fast-paced toward the end and has a great plot!
Fast-paced toward the end and has a great plot!
October 26, 2024
Another very enjoyable read involving ‘young Dave Burrows’. This is set quite early in his stock squad detective days & in his first marriage. His second daughter is born and a lot is happening both at home & at work.
I score this 4.5 🌟
I score this 4.5 🌟
April 24, 2020
What an ending? Will have to wait expectantly for the next part of the story. Fleur is an excellent storyteller. You can easily imagine the characters and the settings.
Love her books.
Love her books.
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