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The Tribute
A serial killer is stalking through Sydney, hell-bent on recreating scenes from the Fabrica, the 16th-century foundation text of modern European anatomy. The spate of cold, methodical attacks has the city on edge, but the serial killer may not even be the darkest player in this story.
Desperate for a breakthrough, decorated homicide detective David Murphy draws into the case his art historian sister, Joanna, and his wife, Sylvia. Unravelling the mystery of who is behind the killings pushes each beyond the limits of what they thought possible.
The Tribute is a subversive take on modern masculinity and misogyny told through an irresistible crime narrative. Dark and unpredictable, chilling but sympathetic, it weaves a tapestry of narrative threads towards a mesmerizing climax that will challenge the way you think about everyone you meet. Meticulously researched, hugely ambitious and superbly crafted, The Tribute is the most outstanding crime novel of 2021.
Desperate for a breakthrough, decorated homicide detective David Murphy draws into the case his art historian sister, Joanna, and his wife, Sylvia. Unravelling the mystery of who is behind the killings pushes each beyond the limits of what they thought possible.
The Tribute is a subversive take on modern masculinity and misogyny told through an irresistible crime narrative. Dark and unpredictable, chilling but sympathetic, it weaves a tapestry of narrative threads towards a mesmerizing climax that will challenge the way you think about everyone you meet. Meticulously researched, hugely ambitious and superbly crafted, The Tribute is the most outstanding crime novel of 2021.
432 pages, Paperback
First published June 29, 2021
31 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 18, 2021
Where to start for this book! It had everything. Firstly, I love a good back story, and this we get from the author via his notes. It explains his education, his detours to get to the vocation he loved (and not so loved), and the jobs he held. This all makes sense when read at the end of the book.
He talks of the main theme, and this is a serious one. Natasha Stott Despoja (who is an Australian Ambassador for Women and Girls) endorsed this book, and this is for good reason. The entire book is full of toxic masculinity and machoism to the nth degree. This is a book full of male detectives, they were all appallingly horrible (I think one may have been nice). The men talked of negativity toward women, wives, partners, children.
I have not read anything at all like this before. My father loves Australian fiction, and I was able to get my hands on it straight away through my library as o was warned this was a must read! The author states he was not fit for a medical degree, but what I saw here was amazingly creative and clever. I thought he’d be an amazing doctor! A book where a dictionary was needed throughout, and the medical and anatomical knowledge outstanding.
A serial killer is methodically making his way through Sydney. Suburbs and all. The tiny little suburb I grew up in got a mention as well, really love reading about Sydney locations. This is the author’s debut, and man can he write!
The killings are based on The Fabrica, this is a fascinating and interesting document originating in the 16th century, and our mightily flawed protag is trying to find him. He drinks too much to be of any value, he’s a horrible man. His long-suffering wife and half-sister are great friends, this is a funny relationship, they are besties which I found a bit odd. They were strong for each other, they had to be, with a man such as Murphy in their midst.
This was a good read, very busy, and a lot going on. This will be an author to watch out for. Recommended, but very gruesome indeed.
He talks of the main theme, and this is a serious one. Natasha Stott Despoja (who is an Australian Ambassador for Women and Girls) endorsed this book, and this is for good reason. The entire book is full of toxic masculinity and machoism to the nth degree. This is a book full of male detectives, they were all appallingly horrible (I think one may have been nice). The men talked of negativity toward women, wives, partners, children.
I have not read anything at all like this before. My father loves Australian fiction, and I was able to get my hands on it straight away through my library as o was warned this was a must read! The author states he was not fit for a medical degree, but what I saw here was amazingly creative and clever. I thought he’d be an amazing doctor! A book where a dictionary was needed throughout, and the medical and anatomical knowledge outstanding.
A serial killer is methodically making his way through Sydney. Suburbs and all. The tiny little suburb I grew up in got a mention as well, really love reading about Sydney locations. This is the author’s debut, and man can he write!
The killings are based on The Fabrica, this is a fascinating and interesting document originating in the 16th century, and our mightily flawed protag is trying to find him. He drinks too much to be of any value, he’s a horrible man. His long-suffering wife and half-sister are great friends, this is a funny relationship, they are besties which I found a bit odd. They were strong for each other, they had to be, with a man such as Murphy in their midst.
This was a good read, very busy, and a lot going on. This will be an author to watch out for. Recommended, but very gruesome indeed.
September 24, 2022
John Byron's debut The Tribute is a tour de force. Plot-wise, it's cross-genre, straddling the serial killer/police investigation thriller and contemporary family/domestic drama categories.
Given that The Tribute features many surprising plot twists and character developments, I won't go too far in describing the story. Set in Sydney, one narrative thread follows the year-long investigation by a Surry Hills-based homicide squad into a series of gruesome murders which bear a striking resemblance to the macabre illustrations contained in the seven-volume historical text de Humani Corporis Fabrica (On the Fabric of the Human Body) by groundbreaking 16th century anatomist Andreas Vesalius. Parallel to the investigation, we also witness the unfolding private lives of senior investigating officer Detective Senior Sergeant David "Spud" Murphy, his wife Sylvia and sister Dr. Joanna King, an art historian who consults on the case.
While on the surface The Tribute reads as a blokish crime thriller, at a deeper level it carries important messages about the far-reaching effects of toxic masculinity and misogyny. John Byron manages to deftly convey this message, without ever becoming preachy or overtly political. His author's note at the end of the novel is a powerful call to action.
As I have personal interests in both Renaissance art and human biology, I found those portions of The Tribute fascinating and Byron's depth of research evident. I acknowledge that other readers have experienced difficulty in reading the excerpts from The Fabrica that are interleaved throughout the novel, but would urge potential readers not to discount The Tribute on the basis of these short passages alone. That said, it's probably not the best choice for those readers who are squeamish about gruesome crime scene descriptions.
The Tribute was at times a confronting read, but as an overall experience I found it both engrossing and thought-provoking. Very highly recommended.
Given that The Tribute features many surprising plot twists and character developments, I won't go too far in describing the story. Set in Sydney, one narrative thread follows the year-long investigation by a Surry Hills-based homicide squad into a series of gruesome murders which bear a striking resemblance to the macabre illustrations contained in the seven-volume historical text de Humani Corporis Fabrica (On the Fabric of the Human Body) by groundbreaking 16th century anatomist Andreas Vesalius. Parallel to the investigation, we also witness the unfolding private lives of senior investigating officer Detective Senior Sergeant David "Spud" Murphy, his wife Sylvia and sister Dr. Joanna King, an art historian who consults on the case.
While on the surface The Tribute reads as a blokish crime thriller, at a deeper level it carries important messages about the far-reaching effects of toxic masculinity and misogyny. John Byron manages to deftly convey this message, without ever becoming preachy or overtly political. His author's note at the end of the novel is a powerful call to action.
As I have personal interests in both Renaissance art and human biology, I found those portions of The Tribute fascinating and Byron's depth of research evident. I acknowledge that other readers have experienced difficulty in reading the excerpts from The Fabrica that are interleaved throughout the novel, but would urge potential readers not to discount The Tribute on the basis of these short passages alone. That said, it's probably not the best choice for those readers who are squeamish about gruesome crime scene descriptions.
The Tribute was at times a confronting read, but as an overall experience I found it both engrossing and thought-provoking. Very highly recommended.
October 11, 2021
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**3.5 stars**
The Tribute by John Byron. (2021).
In Sydney there is a serial killer, busy recreating scenes from the Fabrica, the 16th-century foundation text of modern anatomy. The cold and methodical killings has everyone on edge but the serial killer might not even be the darkest player in this story. Desperate for a breakthrough, Detective David Murphy draws into the case his art historian sister, Jo, and his wife, Sylvia. Unravelling the mystery of who is behind the killings pushes each beyond the limits of what they thought possible.
I think this is a great debut for the author, who clearly is very talented at writing. It seems as though this is a crime thriller, and it is, but the author has also incorporated a strong message on masculinity and misogyny. Readers should take the time to read the author's note at the end where he explains his motivations for his story. To that end, I think for me the author did too good a job because I basically despised one of the characters so much so that it lessened my enjoyment of the book. However, I did love the ending. It is worth noting that there was a high level of detail for the murder victims' corpses; some readers may find it gruesome and/or slightly too much scientific detail.
Overall: a great debut for the author and one I'd recommend for those that enjoy modern thrillers.
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**3.5 stars**
The Tribute by John Byron. (2021).
In Sydney there is a serial killer, busy recreating scenes from the Fabrica, the 16th-century foundation text of modern anatomy. The cold and methodical killings has everyone on edge but the serial killer might not even be the darkest player in this story. Desperate for a breakthrough, Detective David Murphy draws into the case his art historian sister, Jo, and his wife, Sylvia. Unravelling the mystery of who is behind the killings pushes each beyond the limits of what they thought possible.
I think this is a great debut for the author, who clearly is very talented at writing. It seems as though this is a crime thriller, and it is, but the author has also incorporated a strong message on masculinity and misogyny. Readers should take the time to read the author's note at the end where he explains his motivations for his story. To that end, I think for me the author did too good a job because I basically despised one of the characters so much so that it lessened my enjoyment of the book. However, I did love the ending. It is worth noting that there was a high level of detail for the murder victims' corpses; some readers may find it gruesome and/or slightly too much scientific detail.
Overall: a great debut for the author and one I'd recommend for those that enjoy modern thrillers.
October 22, 2021
A visual panorama of Sydney is the setting for this debut serial killer thriller by Aussie John Byron. The Tribute opens with a swimming race around Coogee Island and introduces Joanne, an art historian, her brother David Murphy, a police Detective and his wife, Sylvia. Included in the book is a series of medical illustrations that begin each chapter and are the key to the mystery. A classic police procedural with few clues, no leads and the pressure from the Government and police headquarters. With well-developed characters, increasing tension, some humour and a menacing foe leads to a riveting climax. Without overdoing the gore, a four-star rating for lovers of crime fiction noir.
July 28, 2021
The media release that came with John Byron's debut thriller opens with the following:
"Meticulously researched, hugely ambitious and superbly crafted THE TRIBUTE is the most original thriller of 2021 and heralds John Byron as a formidable new player in Australian crime writing.
Byron deftly skewers the genre to craft a subversive take on toxic masculinity, misogyny and coercive control, told through an irresistible crime narrative."
If there was ever a time, and a crime book, that requires everyone to put aside their dislike of the endless retelling of the serial killer concept, then publication of THE TRIBUTE is it.
As all the publicity says, this is a crime novel, ostensibly about a particularly gory serial killer, hell-bent on recreating scenes from the FABRICA, the 16th-century foundation text of modern anatomy. Despite the sense of foreboding that the concept of a hell-bent, mad, dangerous serial killer with an obsession for anatomical dissection brings with it, there's something refreshingly matter-of-fact about that aspect of the novel, allowing the reader to understand what's happening, without having to spend too much time wondering why or "eavesdropping" on the mad, although there is some gore so be aware if you're particularly sensitive.
What can't be underestimated, or overlooked, however is the way that the issues of toxic masculinity, misogyny and coercive control are built into this novel. The author's comments (which really should be read in their entirety after you've finished the novel) include this snippet:
"...I wrote this novel to explore the mythology about the top blokes, about the tough-but-fair, hardworking salt-of-the-earth types, about the family men next door and the pillars of the community who everyone swears would never abuse their partners, not in a million years."
Not that THE TRIBUTE gets into virtue signalling, lecturing or even pillory. Rather what it does is provide a clear, devastating blueprint of an abusive relationship, from the childhood manifestations, through to the small acts of ongoing control and manipulation, the gaslighting, the put-downs, the increasing nastiness, right up to the outright abuse, and a series of twists that are brutal and uncomfortably real. What's particularly frightening is the serious exploration of the power imbalance in a lot of these situations, very sobering the more you think about it. It lays bare the myth of the good bloke, skewers the claims of lack of awareness and reaction from the people around them, and shows there is often somebody who can see through the bullshit. All while carrying forward an urgent, and realistic hunt for a serial killer who is targeting seemingly random victims, killing and dissecting in a clinical, forensic method, leaving no trace, providing an increasingly desperate investigative team with very little to go on. The way that the layer edges in this novel are blended together is really incredibly clever.
THE TRIBUTE might quite rightly be considered ambitious, but whatever plans there were when this novel was conceived (and I'd say from the author's notes there is a lot that he feels needs to be said), it is brilliantly written, cleverly constructed and extremely telling. If, like this reader, you come to it as a crime novel, with some trepidation about yet another serial killer narrative, park those concerns and go with the author on this one. Really good crime fiction has often been the vehicle through which society can view it's own failings and THE TRIBUTE is providing a very timely opportunity to do that in spades.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
"Meticulously researched, hugely ambitious and superbly crafted THE TRIBUTE is the most original thriller of 2021 and heralds John Byron as a formidable new player in Australian crime writing.
Byron deftly skewers the genre to craft a subversive take on toxic masculinity, misogyny and coercive control, told through an irresistible crime narrative."
If there was ever a time, and a crime book, that requires everyone to put aside their dislike of the endless retelling of the serial killer concept, then publication of THE TRIBUTE is it.
As all the publicity says, this is a crime novel, ostensibly about a particularly gory serial killer, hell-bent on recreating scenes from the FABRICA, the 16th-century foundation text of modern anatomy. Despite the sense of foreboding that the concept of a hell-bent, mad, dangerous serial killer with an obsession for anatomical dissection brings with it, there's something refreshingly matter-of-fact about that aspect of the novel, allowing the reader to understand what's happening, without having to spend too much time wondering why or "eavesdropping" on the mad, although there is some gore so be aware if you're particularly sensitive.
What can't be underestimated, or overlooked, however is the way that the issues of toxic masculinity, misogyny and coercive control are built into this novel. The author's comments (which really should be read in their entirety after you've finished the novel) include this snippet:
"...I wrote this novel to explore the mythology about the top blokes, about the tough-but-fair, hardworking salt-of-the-earth types, about the family men next door and the pillars of the community who everyone swears would never abuse their partners, not in a million years."
Not that THE TRIBUTE gets into virtue signalling, lecturing or even pillory. Rather what it does is provide a clear, devastating blueprint of an abusive relationship, from the childhood manifestations, through to the small acts of ongoing control and manipulation, the gaslighting, the put-downs, the increasing nastiness, right up to the outright abuse, and a series of twists that are brutal and uncomfortably real. What's particularly frightening is the serious exploration of the power imbalance in a lot of these situations, very sobering the more you think about it. It lays bare the myth of the good bloke, skewers the claims of lack of awareness and reaction from the people around them, and shows there is often somebody who can see through the bullshit. All while carrying forward an urgent, and realistic hunt for a serial killer who is targeting seemingly random victims, killing and dissecting in a clinical, forensic method, leaving no trace, providing an increasingly desperate investigative team with very little to go on. The way that the layer edges in this novel are blended together is really incredibly clever.
THE TRIBUTE might quite rightly be considered ambitious, but whatever plans there were when this novel was conceived (and I'd say from the author's notes there is a lot that he feels needs to be said), it is brilliantly written, cleverly constructed and extremely telling. If, like this reader, you come to it as a crime novel, with some trepidation about yet another serial killer narrative, park those concerns and go with the author on this one. Really good crime fiction has often been the vehicle through which society can view it's own failings and THE TRIBUTE is providing a very timely opportunity to do that in spades.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
July 14, 2021
So I'll try and keep this review brief..... I'll start by saying that the story line was great, however while there were some quite likeable characters, I just couldn't get past the behaviour of the main character "Spud".
I wanted to put this book down before I even reached 100 pages, Spuds behaviour was absolutely appalling (and yes, it got worse). The only thing that kept me reading was the hope that he would ultimately be exposed for the man that he was. Unfortunately that did not happen, yes, some might say he got what he deserved, and perhaps he did... but in my opinion, this was just another case of DV being swept under the rug, he was never held accountable for his actions and probably even seen as a hero amongst colleagues. He made me feel physically ill at times, and given what the actual killer was capable of, and the fact that his actions never made me feel that way, says something about Spud......
I wanted to put this book down before I even reached 100 pages, Spuds behaviour was absolutely appalling (and yes, it got worse). The only thing that kept me reading was the hope that he would ultimately be exposed for the man that he was. Unfortunately that did not happen, yes, some might say he got what he deserved, and perhaps he did... but in my opinion, this was just another case of DV being swept under the rug, he was never held accountable for his actions and probably even seen as a hero amongst colleagues. He made me feel physically ill at times, and given what the actual killer was capable of, and the fact that his actions never made me feel that way, says something about Spud......
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2021
I almost gave this book four stars but realised the reason I didn’t absolutely love it was because of how uncomfortable it made me feel to read, so five stars.
I really enjoyed the crime story and how the author used a historical reference book to set it around. To have it set in Sydney was also interesting and made it more relatable.
What made me uncomfortable was just how much I didn’t like one of the the main characters. They provided another story line all of their own throughout this book. The author told their story in such a raw and gritty fashion that was totally plausible, and it made me angry that it was so believable.
All in all, a great crime story with a powerful message.
I really enjoyed the crime story and how the author used a historical reference book to set it around. To have it set in Sydney was also interesting and made it more relatable.
What made me uncomfortable was just how much I didn’t like one of the the main characters. They provided another story line all of their own throughout this book. The author told their story in such a raw and gritty fashion that was totally plausible, and it made me angry that it was so believable.
All in all, a great crime story with a powerful message.
February 22, 2022
3.5/5. The idea was wonderful, but I found this more character than plot driven. Whilst it was interesting to get a look into each character’s life, I feel a lot more could have been done to further the plot, and the ending was clunky.
June 18, 2021
Quite a different read, and one that I really enjoyed. Set in Sydney too, so that gave it a familiar feel.
A macabre serial killer, who is recreating scenes from the Fabrica, the 16th Century foundation text of modern European anatomy. Homicide detective David Murphy leads the team hunting the killer.
Written in an interesting style, the reader knows who the killer is, and we slowly learn why he's killing, and how he's selecting his victims well before the police. We also learn our lead detective is not a likeable character either ! Not just crime as we get a lot of family and back story of Murphy.
A mesmerising read.
A macabre serial killer, who is recreating scenes from the Fabrica, the 16th Century foundation text of modern European anatomy. Homicide detective David Murphy leads the team hunting the killer.
Written in an interesting style, the reader knows who the killer is, and we slowly learn why he's killing, and how he's selecting his victims well before the police. We also learn our lead detective is not a likeable character either ! Not just crime as we get a lot of family and back story of Murphy.
A mesmerising read.
July 24, 2021
3.5 stars. Don't know quite how to feel about the book. I was hooked by this audiobook at the end. But it kinda made me feel nauseated and very angry at a character. It was very intrigueing but I can't say I enjoyed it. But I couldn't barely stop listening to it. Want to read/listen to more books by John Byron.
August 15, 2021
No spoilers so this is very vague. If you are wanting to read this book, please stay away from any and all spoilers.
I picked this book up as I enjoy serial killer / police drama stories and I always want to read Australian authors.
When I started the book, it was a bit slow and plodding. I really floundered with the excerpts from the Fabrica (? I think?). So I made a conscious decision to completely skip those and just read the narrative.
And it was a great decision for me.
The storyline is very confronting. By about two thirds of the way through the book, the hunt for the serial killer plot became secondary for me. The inexorable slide of a character is compelling and frightening. All the indica are there and its just little things at first that I was vaguely uncomfortable about but I wrote off / excused given the character's work WHICH I SHOULDN'T HAVE AND NO ONE SHOULD (shouting intentional). And it shows how those little things start building and ... no spoilers! I was also drawn to the Author's Note where he pulls no punches.
A great debut novel that I recommend. The book will and should sit uncomfortably with you.
I picked this book up as I enjoy serial killer / police drama stories and I always want to read Australian authors.
When I started the book, it was a bit slow and plodding. I really floundered with the excerpts from the Fabrica (? I think?). So I made a conscious decision to completely skip those and just read the narrative.
And it was a great decision for me.
The storyline is very confronting. By about two thirds of the way through the book, the hunt for the serial killer plot became secondary for me. The inexorable slide of a character is compelling and frightening. All the indica are there and its just little things at first that I was vaguely uncomfortable about but I wrote off / excused given the character's work WHICH I SHOULDN'T HAVE AND NO ONE SHOULD (shouting intentional). And it shows how those little things start building and ... no spoilers! I was also drawn to the Author's Note where he pulls no punches.
A great debut novel that I recommend. The book will and should sit uncomfortably with you.
July 26, 2021
Stunning. So difficult to read in parts as it took me to my threshold for gore but such a powerful story I was compelled to keep going. I was aghast at the main thread and more than dismayed by behaviour of a main character .. the behaviour is a contemporary subject more openly emerging in public discourse but sadly not effectively addressed … the authors comments on this at the end of the book are important. Contextual descriptions of Sydney are clear and relatable
September 8, 2021
A cracker of a crime novel, with a thoroughly unlikeable main character. The concept of the methodology of the serial killer is gruesome and original. The book is cleverly mastered and considered. There is an underlying theme of toxic masculinity which is powerful in how the author addresses this topic.
December 1, 2021
Congratulations to John Byron - an incredible debut novel, and hands down the best crime novel I have read in a very long time. Brilliant. With all the hooks of a beautifully written crime novel, you are sucked in from the beginning. The story arch and use of the Fabrica book is a great one. You are so absorbed and the next minute - the serial killer is just a side plot in my mind. My interest is elsewhere with the unforeseen story line - the back of the novel does allude to this but it becomes front and centre in the most delicate way. Once it’s there it’s truly maddening and leaves me feeling like I’d like to help Jo at the end - you’ll know what I mean. An important book for all the read, an exposition on masculinity in this country and the underlying issues which just need to stop. Stop. It. Now. We all have a part to play and can make change.
July 7, 2021
This is awesome! Loved the gothic parts to this novel
September 7, 2023
An exceptional crime novel! It’s about a serial killer who is recreating scenes from the Fabrica, a 16-century foundation text of modern anatomy. The story is unpredictable, and the twists and turns kept me guessing all the way. And the last third of the book – wow! Not only is it a great thriller, but the major themes of masculinity, misogyny, power, and control are woven throughout the story, making it thought-provoking and engaging. The characters are well-developed, and their motivations are clearly explored, including the twisted killer’s mind. This is a dark and chilling story with sustained tension and suspense.
For those who live in Sydney, Australia, I’m sure you will appreciate this setting for the novel. The author's descriptions of Sydney are vivid and add to the atmosphere of the book. The writing style is excellent, the prose is well-crafted, and the pacing is perfect.
The Tribute made me feel engaged, intrigued, and on the edge. The themes I have mentioned give depth to the story that is powerful and often confronting. I highly recommend this one to anyone who enjoys crime novels that are well-crafted, thought-provoking, and engaging. It would be suitable for adults and older teenagers who enjoy reading crime novels. Note, though, that there is some coarse language throughout spoken in relation to and by some of the characters.
For those who live in Sydney, Australia, I’m sure you will appreciate this setting for the novel. The author's descriptions of Sydney are vivid and add to the atmosphere of the book. The writing style is excellent, the prose is well-crafted, and the pacing is perfect.
The Tribute made me feel engaged, intrigued, and on the edge. The themes I have mentioned give depth to the story that is powerful and often confronting. I highly recommend this one to anyone who enjoys crime novels that are well-crafted, thought-provoking, and engaging. It would be suitable for adults and older teenagers who enjoy reading crime novels. Note, though, that there is some coarse language throughout spoken in relation to and by some of the characters.
September 26, 2021
What a fantastic read! I found The Tribute to be absolutely fascinating and so much more original and multi faceted than most crime books I’ve read.
Highly recommended and I look forward to John Byron’s next book.
Highly recommended and I look forward to John Byron’s next book.
January 18, 2023
4.5 rounded down to a 4 - both a deeply disturbing crime novel and a love letter to Sydney's eastern suburbs, arguably written just for me. Also a rare win for men who decide to write women's POVs, good job John.
October 6, 2025
Amazing insight and excellent writing. Relevant themes and current topics all wrapped in a murder mystery.
December 10, 2021
Four stars for the outstanding author's note at the end. The story was excellent and a great Sydney setting, which is hard to pull off but there's not a single cringe sentence to be found. Read as an audio & it's read well. I'll be looking out for more books by John Byron for sure.
October 3, 2021
I enjoyed this complex and sophisticated story about a serial killer in modern day Sydney who is emanating a 16th century anatomy text book. The story brings in the procedure of the homicide investigation and the context of academic history to understand the motives and actions of the killer.
There was a sub-plot of domestic abuse by one of the main characters, which I found interesting, but I wasn't sure if it complemented or distracted the main story.
There is a postscript in which the author decries misogyny, which I found a bit ironic and contradictory. The author chose to use strong and abusive words to describe his feelings for domestic abuse, which I felt were more at home in an abusive setting, than in a anti-abuse statement. It disappointed me that the author chose to be so aggressive and "common" and it somewhat detracted from the point he was trying to make.
A great read though.
There was a sub-plot of domestic abuse by one of the main characters, which I found interesting, but I wasn't sure if it complemented or distracted the main story.
There is a postscript in which the author decries misogyny, which I found a bit ironic and contradictory. The author chose to use strong and abusive words to describe his feelings for domestic abuse, which I felt were more at home in an abusive setting, than in a anti-abuse statement. It disappointed me that the author chose to be so aggressive and "common" and it somewhat detracted from the point he was trying to make.
A great read though.
January 23, 2022
This book was so lacking subtlety that it was a chore to read. The fact the killer focuses on a book that the detectives sister just happens to be an expert on; needless to say , its too much of an obvious connection. The characters were brutish, disintegrating into moral depravity as the book goes on, and for the most part one dimensional
I’m angry, rude and I drink - that was the main detective, David.
I’m scared, demure and I also drink - that’s his wife.
I’m a smart feminist academic who argues with people and have a semi lesbian foray - that’s our supporting protagonist, Jo.
I’m a crazy loner - that’s our killer.
See???
yawn
Also let’s talk about the way you can tell this is written by a bogan male. The cookie cutter lesbian romance was a shocking attempt at, what, being diverse, or was it pure male smut? And he has to make the lesbian character the stereotype of being non committal and super sexual. Cmon.
Even the cops and their terrible language, drinking and “banter” was a big stereotype.
The whole book had a repetitive, mansplaining, fumbling, jamming a square into a round hole sort of feeling could only be achieved by, well, a man.
What riles me most is the feeble attempt at making a nod to the misogyny women experience. You’re not adding to the conversation by telling us angry , entitled, or addicted men kill women. We know. Messages that are powerful are more nuanced than that. You do not need to make your characters that fucking obvious.
There was also no suspense. We knew from the beginning what the killer was doing, what book he was focusing on, what he was about to do in terms of his anatomy focus, what he did for work, and even his name. Talk about anti climatic.
I’m angry, rude and I drink - that was the main detective, David.
I’m scared, demure and I also drink - that’s his wife.
I’m a smart feminist academic who argues with people and have a semi lesbian foray - that’s our supporting protagonist, Jo.
I’m a crazy loner - that’s our killer.
See???
yawn
Also let’s talk about the way you can tell this is written by a bogan male. The cookie cutter lesbian romance was a shocking attempt at, what, being diverse, or was it pure male smut? And he has to make the lesbian character the stereotype of being non committal and super sexual. Cmon.
Even the cops and their terrible language, drinking and “banter” was a big stereotype.
The whole book had a repetitive, mansplaining, fumbling, jamming a square into a round hole sort of feeling could only be achieved by, well, a man.
What riles me most is the feeble attempt at making a nod to the misogyny women experience. You’re not adding to the conversation by telling us angry , entitled, or addicted men kill women. We know. Messages that are powerful are more nuanced than that. You do not need to make your characters that fucking obvious.
There was also no suspense. We knew from the beginning what the killer was doing, what book he was focusing on, what he was about to do in terms of his anatomy focus, what he did for work, and even his name. Talk about anti climatic.
August 7, 2021
The rating for this book was difficult for me. The story was absolutely amazing. Had me captivated the entire time. The characters , however, had me wanting to lower my rating.
The detective, Murphy, well....he's a wife beater. I know that's a bit of a bold statement but he really was horrible and made me cringe reading parts with him in it.
At the end of the book the author writes about his reasons for writing Murphy the way he did and followed up with phone numbers for helplines to bring awareness to domestic violence and seeking help both the victims AND the abusers. As in man up and get help so you can treat her right.
I'm not as annoyed at how Murphy was written now and happy to rate it 5/5. The character is by no means any less repulsive and abhorrent but at least there was a reasoning for it. Its a great book with a difficult message.
The detective, Murphy, well....he's a wife beater. I know that's a bit of a bold statement but he really was horrible and made me cringe reading parts with him in it.
At the end of the book the author writes about his reasons for writing Murphy the way he did and followed up with phone numbers for helplines to bring awareness to domestic violence and seeking help both the victims AND the abusers. As in man up and get help so you can treat her right.
I'm not as annoyed at how Murphy was written now and happy to rate it 5/5. The character is by no means any less repulsive and abhorrent but at least there was a reasoning for it. Its a great book with a difficult message.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2021
The Tribute by John Byron is a sophisticated thriller. Set in Sydney, its plot weaves two strands together.
The first plot follows the murder investigation into a series of gruesome murders by a serial killer who is choosing victims to dissect according to the sections of the seven-volume historical text 'de Humani Corporis Fabrica' ('On the Fabric of the Human Body') by 16th century anatomist Andreas Vesalius.
The second interwoven plot (far too important to be labelled as a sub-plot) is far more shadowy and insidious. It’s a domestic drama uncovering toxic masculinity and domestic violence.
Byron’s use of the Fabrica is both inventive and novel, giving his serial killer a freedom to express himself through the New Fabrica, a later version of the original text. Sections of the Fabrica are used to preface each section of the novel when the killer is planning his next murder, preparing us for what will happen next.
While the murders themselves are somewhat gruesome, the killer’s corpse dissection ‘Patricia Cornwellesque’, often we are looking back analytically through a detective’s eyes, rather than seeing the action take place, giving us some distance from the action.
The second plot, however, is far closer to home. It’s a case of ‘the murderer beside you’ rather than the evil stranger. Given figures that most women are murdered by someone they know, it’s a totally credible premise. What it does highlight is the danger for women who experience living in relationships where misogynist men use elements of control, gaslighting, coercion, physical intimidation and manipulation. It shows the slow burn of a foul temper that really only lights up halfway through the story.
The characters involved in this second plot line stayed with me long after I put the book done. It made this novel so much more worthwhile reading than if it had been a simple crime novel.
Thanks to Affirm Press for providing me with this reading copy.
The first plot follows the murder investigation into a series of gruesome murders by a serial killer who is choosing victims to dissect according to the sections of the seven-volume historical text 'de Humani Corporis Fabrica' ('On the Fabric of the Human Body') by 16th century anatomist Andreas Vesalius.
The second interwoven plot (far too important to be labelled as a sub-plot) is far more shadowy and insidious. It’s a domestic drama uncovering toxic masculinity and domestic violence.
Byron’s use of the Fabrica is both inventive and novel, giving his serial killer a freedom to express himself through the New Fabrica, a later version of the original text. Sections of the Fabrica are used to preface each section of the novel when the killer is planning his next murder, preparing us for what will happen next.
While the murders themselves are somewhat gruesome, the killer’s corpse dissection ‘Patricia Cornwellesque’, often we are looking back analytically through a detective’s eyes, rather than seeing the action take place, giving us some distance from the action.
The second plot, however, is far closer to home. It’s a case of ‘the murderer beside you’ rather than the evil stranger. Given figures that most women are murdered by someone they know, it’s a totally credible premise. What it does highlight is the danger for women who experience living in relationships where misogynist men use elements of control, gaslighting, coercion, physical intimidation and manipulation. It shows the slow burn of a foul temper that really only lights up halfway through the story.
The characters involved in this second plot line stayed with me long after I put the book done. It made this novel so much more worthwhile reading than if it had been a simple crime novel.
Thanks to Affirm Press for providing me with this reading copy.
March 10, 2022
This was dark, gruesome and made me feel uncomfortable. This story was about evil, in many forms. You may need a stiff drink or a calming cup of team after this one. It is definitely a true crime thriller that will set your teeth on edge. It is a damning reflection on masculinity and misogyny, domestic violence and the ability to be able to trust those who we think should be trusted – not to mention a ripper of an investigation to find the person killing people in the style of Vesalius’ Fabrica – a collection of books on 16th-century anatomy.
The book has to distinct plot lines that are woven together in the most gruesome of ways. We meet Murphy, his sister Joanna and Murphy’s wife Sylvia. Murphy is a renowned homicide detective who treats everyone with disdain, and permeates a culture of toxic behaviour throughout his team. So much contempt held against women, including his wife and sister. At the same time we follow the trail of the Fabrica killer – the descriptors are disturbing, compelling and macabre and provide so much insight to us about the killer and the other characters. It makes for some compelling reading, giving necessary insight into the mind of the killer, and we know who the killer is. Time is ticking for the discovery to be made by the police. It is here where we think we’ve seen the worst of Murphy which is dialled up a notch and a half.
John Byron includes an epilogue of sorts in this book to explain how and why he wrote like he did in this book, and why he portrayed his characters the way he did. Without this, you could be forgiven to think this is one sexist book played out in front of you. Yet it makes you recall the number of women you see on TV; we name them every time we hear they have been murdered by other partners in violence in their own homes. You catch a glimpse of how easy it is for perpetrators to hide behind facades that protect them from facing their own crimes.
The book has to distinct plot lines that are woven together in the most gruesome of ways. We meet Murphy, his sister Joanna and Murphy’s wife Sylvia. Murphy is a renowned homicide detective who treats everyone with disdain, and permeates a culture of toxic behaviour throughout his team. So much contempt held against women, including his wife and sister. At the same time we follow the trail of the Fabrica killer – the descriptors are disturbing, compelling and macabre and provide so much insight to us about the killer and the other characters. It makes for some compelling reading, giving necessary insight into the mind of the killer, and we know who the killer is. Time is ticking for the discovery to be made by the police. It is here where we think we’ve seen the worst of Murphy which is dialled up a notch and a half.
John Byron includes an epilogue of sorts in this book to explain how and why he wrote like he did in this book, and why he portrayed his characters the way he did. Without this, you could be forgiven to think this is one sexist book played out in front of you. Yet it makes you recall the number of women you see on TV; we name them every time we hear they have been murdered by other partners in violence in their own homes. You catch a glimpse of how easy it is for perpetrators to hide behind facades that protect them from facing their own crimes.
January 8, 2022
The Tribute by John Byron
Well, this one is a doozie which I almost didn’t continue as it was extremely graphic anatomically.
Detective Senior Sergeant David Murphy has been set the task of finding the depraved person who is killing people so he can examine their anatomy in a very painstaking and thorough manner. The NSW government of the day expends copious amounts of money on a team to assist Murphy, including his sister Joanna , who is an art historian.
One the other side of the law is Stephen Porter - a devotee of Andreas Vesalius, a 16th century anatomist - who attended a lecture given by Joanna about Vesalius. He chooses his victims and, underhandedly, is able to study their diaries electronically in an effort to pick the best time to kill them. On each victim, he systematically follows the seven volumes of Vesalius famous tome, Fabrica, as he dismembers their bodies to see how each component works. Talk about gruesome! He leaves no DNA, nor do people notice that he’s been in their neighbours’ homes.
Murphy and his team have to catch this monster as they know he will continue until he has killed his seventh victim. Little did Murphy know that this would become personal. The story gathers momentum until Porter attacks his sixth victim and this is where he makes a mistake and his
downfall begins; then he enters the home of his intended seventh victim........
I’ll say no more about this but you need a strong stomach and about seven or so hours because you won’t want to put it down!
For further information : https://www.britannica.com/biography/...
Well, this one is a doozie which I almost didn’t continue as it was extremely graphic anatomically.
Detective Senior Sergeant David Murphy has been set the task of finding the depraved person who is killing people so he can examine their anatomy in a very painstaking and thorough manner. The NSW government of the day expends copious amounts of money on a team to assist Murphy, including his sister Joanna , who is an art historian.
One the other side of the law is Stephen Porter - a devotee of Andreas Vesalius, a 16th century anatomist - who attended a lecture given by Joanna about Vesalius. He chooses his victims and, underhandedly, is able to study their diaries electronically in an effort to pick the best time to kill them. On each victim, he systematically follows the seven volumes of Vesalius famous tome, Fabrica, as he dismembers their bodies to see how each component works. Talk about gruesome! He leaves no DNA, nor do people notice that he’s been in their neighbours’ homes.
Murphy and his team have to catch this monster as they know he will continue until he has killed his seventh victim. Little did Murphy know that this would become personal. The story gathers momentum until Porter attacks his sixth victim and this is where he makes a mistake and his
downfall begins; then he enters the home of his intended seventh victim........
I’ll say no more about this but you need a strong stomach and about seven or so hours because you won’t want to put it down!
For further information : https://www.britannica.com/biography/...
September 8, 2021
Inspired by a medieval anatomist, a serial killer murders people in Sydney and dissects their corpses, following the instructions of a recently re-published classic anatomical text. Hard-boiled detective Dave Murphy is on the case and, faced with a singular lack of progress, reluctantly enlists help from his sister, an art historian.
This is a compelling read that I finished in four days. It has an uncommon dynamic, in that the reader does not feel sympathy towards either the criminal or his pursuer. That's because the book is much more than a simple crime novel; Byron has a point that he wants to make here about toxic masculinity.
Whilst the concept sounds gory, Byron's narrative avoids lingering over the horror of what his perpetrator does. Still, this is not for the squeamish. I also think that, despite the good intentions that Byron describes in his afterword, this novel could potentially trigger some people that have suffered domestic violence.
Personally, I think that this was a first-rate crime novel, but I've rounded my rating down for these reasons. Also, I cannot give five stars to any novel where one of the main characters is called Jo King.
This is a compelling read that I finished in four days. It has an uncommon dynamic, in that the reader does not feel sympathy towards either the criminal or his pursuer. That's because the book is much more than a simple crime novel; Byron has a point that he wants to make here about toxic masculinity.
Whilst the concept sounds gory, Byron's narrative avoids lingering over the horror of what his perpetrator does. Still, this is not for the squeamish. I also think that, despite the good intentions that Byron describes in his afterword, this novel could potentially trigger some people that have suffered domestic violence.
Personally, I think that this was a first-rate crime novel, but I've rounded my rating down for these reasons. Also, I cannot give five stars to any novel where one of the main characters is called Jo King.
November 3, 2021
I saw this book on sale for $8 at Kmart (Australia) and it also came highly recommended by under-rated Aussie author David Whish-Wilson. So, why not, I jumped in. This was a good debut thriller. 3.5 stars, and I'll read the next one (assuming there is one).
A little clumsy in parts, but I finished it in 3 days and like all good suspense books, found it pretty hard to put down. It wasn't like I thought it would be though. The cover and the blurb indicate a detailed medical / pathological related story, and whilst there certainly were elements of this, the relationship (toxic) side of the non-criminals soon took over. It wasn't a squirmish / violent as some have indicated herein.
There is a one - two page detailed blurb at the beginning of each chapter which really didn't add to the story for me, and after about the first three chapters I desisted reading these introductions (and felt the story was better off with this omission).
The ending was a little quick but the storyline was a sound one and I enjoyed it. Recommended.
A little clumsy in parts, but I finished it in 3 days and like all good suspense books, found it pretty hard to put down. It wasn't like I thought it would be though. The cover and the blurb indicate a detailed medical / pathological related story, and whilst there certainly were elements of this, the relationship (toxic) side of the non-criminals soon took over. It wasn't a squirmish / violent as some have indicated herein.
There is a one - two page detailed blurb at the beginning of each chapter which really didn't add to the story for me, and after about the first three chapters I desisted reading these introductions (and felt the story was better off with this omission).
The ending was a little quick but the storyline was a sound one and I enjoyed it. Recommended.
March 8, 2024
Byron has outdone himself with this novel. Eloquently written in all aspects which has the reader visualising the all too familiar scapes of the eastern suburbs. What stood out for me is the interwoven storyline’s of the murderer then of the escalating domestic violence perpetrated by what one may have initially considered to be the hero of the novel, or perhaps the anti-hero? Our beloved strung out and crass bogan detective because our despised villain as he creates a living hell for his wife. I really enjoyed that Byron did not try to entrap the reader into falling for Murphy’s violent and abusive behaviours, from the moment he described one behaviour it was like - Byron thinks Murphy is a dirtbag and there’s no sugar coating it to make you second guess if he is as bad as he seems! No collusion with the perpetrator just a common story of a woman fleeing for her safety and how this truly is the most dangerous time for her. From a social worker that has worked with victims of DV for over 10 years, you’ve done good JB 👏🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2022
I feel like I should give this a higher rating but I’ll go with 3 for now…. A great book, a fantastic story, the genre much different to what I normally read. It took me a little while to get into it but as I did, I had mixed feelings. Murphy, Sylvia and Jo are the main characters. Murphy being married to Sylvia and Jo’s brother and the central police character within the story. There are other more minor characters being the other police officers and of course the murderer. The character profiles are done really well. The story focuses on a serial killer following an anatomical text to reenact human dissections from 16th century. Which sounds good right??However there is a sub plot around domestic violence and how it’s never the person you think it is (not giving away any spoilers) …. As such while both stories have their merits I found they didn’t necessarily compliment each other as much as they could. I found myself questioning the structure of the narrative and I found the storyline started really well, but I felt like the story never reached its full potential. Its ending came a little too soon I feel. However the focus on domestic violence, misogyny, violence and the patriarchy was spot on and needs greater attention across the board.
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