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Phryne Fisher #22
The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions: The Ultimate Miss Phryne Fisher Story Collection
The elegant Miss Phryne Fisher returns in this scintillating collection, featuring four brand-new stories.
The Honourable Phryne Fisher - she of the Lulu bob, Cupid's Bow lips, diamante garters and pearl-handled pistol - is the 1920s' most elegant and irrepressible sleuth.
Miss Phryne Fisher is up to her stunning green eyes in intriguing crime in each of these entertaining, fun and compulsively readable stories. With the ever-loyal Dot, the ingenious Mr Butler and all of Phryne's friends and household, the action is as fast as Phryne's wit and logic.
The Honourable Phryne Fisher - she of the Lulu bob, Cupid's Bow lips, diamante garters and pearl-handled pistol - is the 1920s' most elegant and irrepressible sleuth.
Miss Phryne Fisher is up to her stunning green eyes in intriguing crime in each of these entertaining, fun and compulsively readable stories. With the ever-loyal Dot, the ingenious Mr Butler and all of Phryne's friends and household, the action is as fast as Phryne's wit and logic.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2021
233 people are currently reading
1720 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Greenwood
86 books2,543 followersKerry Isabelle Greenwood was an Australian author and lawyer. She wrote many plays and books, most notably a string of historical detective novels centred on the character of Phryne Fisher, which was adapted as the popular television series Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. She wrote mysteries, science-fiction, historical fiction, children's stories, and plays. Greenwood earned the Australian women's crime fiction Davitt Award in 2002 for her young adult novel The Three-Pronged Dagger.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 365 reviews
May 11, 2025
In a Nutshell: An interesting collection of short stories featuring Phryne Fisher. There are a few decent stories here but none that blew my mind.
Let me begin with a disclaimer. I have never heard of this supposedly famous character prior to reading these stories. I don’t know anything about her, have never read her full-length cozy mysteries nor watched her NetFlix series. (I don’t know what rock I have been living under!) So this review is based on this book alone and not on any loyalty or fondness for this character. In other words, I might be disappointing some of you Phryne Fisher fans with my words. Apologies for that!
The collection begins with two very different types of author's notes: ‘Apologia’, which contains a little humorous note to the reader, and ‘On Phryne Fisher’, which details out the journey of this character, including how the idea for the book germinated. This latter section especially was a delight to read and set the right tone for the book, especially for ignoramuses such as me who knew nothing about the Phryne Fisher world. One line that stayed with me was:
“Historical novels walk a fine line. Too much detail and the reader is bored. Too little and it fails to convince. The ideal state for the reader is one where she trusts the writer to tell her everything she needs to know.”
The anthology contains 17 short stories, each having Phryne Fisher demonstrating her intellect as well as her apathy towards social restrictions and societal constructs. I can see why she is such a well-known character. Her standoffishness is on the façade and underneath that rough-and-tough exterior lies a caring woman with a strong sense of loyalty. I quite liked the character. The late 1920s era also comes out well in the collection, though I am sure it would be even better in the full-length novels.
The stories, however, are a different matter. Some of the stories are built up well enough but others are too short to leave a mark. Though they contain elements of cozy mysteries, not all of them develop as traditional mysteries do. In some cases, the drama and the build-up get greater priority than the resolution. I enjoyed those stories where we get to see Phryne put her skills to best use and where the ending was unexpected.
Some of my favourites in this collection were:
Thus, 6 of the 17 stories reached/breached the 4 star mark. However, as you can see, only one story reached 4.5 and none went to 5 stars. I guess this is mainly because none of the tales caused me to go open-mouthed in surprise. It was more on the lines of, “I read, I liked, I forgot”. Nothing memorable. But the character of Phryne Fisher intrigued me enough and if I get my hands on a full-length novel, I might still give it a try.
3.3 stars based on the average of my ratings for all the stories.
Note for fans: This is not a completely new collection but a reissue of “A Question of Death: An Illustrated Phryne Fisher Treasury”. The non-story elements have been taken out, and there are a couple of new stories.
PS: I love the title and the cover!
My thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions: The Ultimate Miss Phryne Fisher Story Collection”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Let me begin with a disclaimer. I have never heard of this supposedly famous character prior to reading these stories. I don’t know anything about her, have never read her full-length cozy mysteries nor watched her NetFlix series. (I don’t know what rock I have been living under!) So this review is based on this book alone and not on any loyalty or fondness for this character. In other words, I might be disappointing some of you Phryne Fisher fans with my words. Apologies for that!
The collection begins with two very different types of author's notes: ‘Apologia’, which contains a little humorous note to the reader, and ‘On Phryne Fisher’, which details out the journey of this character, including how the idea for the book germinated. This latter section especially was a delight to read and set the right tone for the book, especially for ignoramuses such as me who knew nothing about the Phryne Fisher world. One line that stayed with me was:
“Historical novels walk a fine line. Too much detail and the reader is bored. Too little and it fails to convince. The ideal state for the reader is one where she trusts the writer to tell her everything she needs to know.”
The anthology contains 17 short stories, each having Phryne Fisher demonstrating her intellect as well as her apathy towards social restrictions and societal constructs. I can see why she is such a well-known character. Her standoffishness is on the façade and underneath that rough-and-tough exterior lies a caring woman with a strong sense of loyalty. I quite liked the character. The late 1920s era also comes out well in the collection, though I am sure it would be even better in the full-length novels.
The stories, however, are a different matter. Some of the stories are built up well enough but others are too short to leave a mark. Though they contain elements of cozy mysteries, not all of them develop as traditional mysteries do. In some cases, the drama and the build-up get greater priority than the resolution. I enjoyed those stories where we get to see Phryne put her skills to best use and where the ending was unexpected.
Some of my favourites in this collection were:
Hotel Splendide - 🌟🌟🌟🌟 - I would have loved this even more had the same plotline not been present in a recent book I read. This isn't plagiarised, as the author clarifies in the opening note about the story being based on an urban legend. But as I already knew what was to come, it spoilt my fun of discovery.
Marrying the Bookie's Daughter - 🌟🌟🌟🌟 – Would have been a lower rated story were it not for the ending. It was nice to see an unexpected resolution to the main dilemma.
Overheard on a Balcony - 🌟🌟🌟🌟 – This was the best “mystery” in the book. Once again, the ending was my favourite part.
Death Shall Be Dead - 🌟🌟🌟🌟- I cant help feeling that there’s a Sherlock Holmes book with a similar modus operandi, but don’t recollect the name. Anyway, this was still a good story to read. Plus half a star for having a lovable dog.
Carnival - 🌟🌟🌟🌟 – Loved the characters in this one. Highlights societal prejudices very well.
Come, Sable Night - 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 – Contained two of my favourite things: music/choirs and unexpected endings.
Thus, 6 of the 17 stories reached/breached the 4 star mark. However, as you can see, only one story reached 4.5 and none went to 5 stars. I guess this is mainly because none of the tales caused me to go open-mouthed in surprise. It was more on the lines of, “I read, I liked, I forgot”. Nothing memorable. But the character of Phryne Fisher intrigued me enough and if I get my hands on a full-length novel, I might still give it a try.
3.3 stars based on the average of my ratings for all the stories.
Note for fans: This is not a completely new collection but a reissue of “A Question of Death: An Illustrated Phryne Fisher Treasury”. The non-story elements have been taken out, and there are a couple of new stories.
PS: I love the title and the cover!
My thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions: The Ultimate Miss Phryne Fisher Story Collection”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
April 21, 2022
This is a delightful collection of short stories featuring the elegant amateur sleuth, the Hon Miss Phryne Fisher. Fans of Kerry Greenwood's Phryne Fisher series will enjoy these vignettes of Miss Fisher doing what she does best. For those who have not yet been introduced to Phryne, they will serve as a great way to meet her.
The collection of short stories includes thirteen published previously in 2007 as A Question of Death, with the addition of four new stories written in 2019-2020. All are set in 1928-1929, mostly in Melbourne where Phryne has established her home. Kerry Greenwood's introduction on how Phryne came about and developed into the character we've come to love is also interesting to read. She comments that once she visualised who Phryne should be and started writing about her she had no further control over her and felt 'like I discovered Phryne rather than invented her.' All the stories were enjoyable with a mystery or murder to solve and infused with a sense of fun. Whether dining in high society, mixing with carnival folk, a football coach or questioning hotel clerks and waiters, Phryne is always elegantly attired, sharp witted and unflappable.
With thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via Netgalley for a copy to read
The collection of short stories includes thirteen published previously in 2007 as A Question of Death, with the addition of four new stories written in 2019-2020. All are set in 1928-1929, mostly in Melbourne where Phryne has established her home. Kerry Greenwood's introduction on how Phryne came about and developed into the character we've come to love is also interesting to read. She comments that once she visualised who Phryne should be and started writing about her she had no further control over her and felt 'like I discovered Phryne rather than invented her.' All the stories were enjoyable with a mystery or murder to solve and infused with a sense of fun. Whether dining in high society, mixing with carnival folk, a football coach or questioning hotel clerks and waiters, Phryne is always elegantly attired, sharp witted and unflappable.
With thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via Netgalley for a copy to read
April 17, 2021
I have read all of the Phryne Fisher books but this is the first time I have read any short stories about her. I enjoyed them very much.
I especially liked Kerry Greenwood's introduction 'On Phryne Fisher' in which she discusses how Phryne and her series began. She had very definite ideas about how her main character would be. "I wanted her to be like James Bond with better clothes and fewer gadgets." She wanted a female detective unlike the norm, one that was "without guilt, with boundless self esteem-as a role model perhaps." She certainly achieved her goals.
All of the stories were good though I especially enjoyed Hotel Splendide, Death Shall be Dead, Carnival and The Bells of St.Pauls. I did wish once or twice that she had extended a story into a full book. Several of them definitely had the makings for a novel!
Since she did not I hope her muse is currently poking her in the middle of the back and growling 'Wake up and write the book." The Honorable Phryne Fisher has lots of life in her yet.
I especially liked Kerry Greenwood's introduction 'On Phryne Fisher' in which she discusses how Phryne and her series began. She had very definite ideas about how her main character would be. "I wanted her to be like James Bond with better clothes and fewer gadgets." She wanted a female detective unlike the norm, one that was "without guilt, with boundless self esteem-as a role model perhaps." She certainly achieved her goals.
All of the stories were good though I especially enjoyed Hotel Splendide, Death Shall be Dead, Carnival and The Bells of St.Pauls. I did wish once or twice that she had extended a story into a full book. Several of them definitely had the makings for a novel!
Since she did not I hope her muse is currently poking her in the middle of the back and growling 'Wake up and write the book." The Honorable Phryne Fisher has lots of life in her yet.
June 27, 2022
3.5★
“‘What can a sheila do?’ snarled Jock McHale suddenly, and with frightening hostility. ‘What use is she?’
Phryne was filled with fury, but not a flicker showed on her face.
‘Mr McHale, if you please!’ said the Archbishop sternly. ‘Please overlook this outburst, Miss Fisher, he is a rough fellow.’”
Said the Archbishop to the stunningly beautiful lady detective. To fans of VFL (was Victorian, now Australian Football League - AFL - ‘Aussie Rules’), Jock McHale is a legend – unknown to me, but obviously revered by Collingwood and the AFL as the best coach ever. But I digress, which is an occupational hazard for readers of historical fiction.
Kerry Greenwood has taken this famous character and created a mystery around the disappearance (loss? theft?) of his well-worn lucky hat. McHale is convinced that it has been stolen to take away the luck his team needs in the upcoming game against Richmond (still arch-rivals today).
Catholic Archbishop Daniel Mannix was extremely influential for decades in Australia, but that’s another digression we don’t need to follow to enjoy the story.
Phryne, of course, calls on her old pals Bert and Cec to scout around in pubs and on the streets for any football gossip.
There are seventeen short stories in this collection, of varying interest to me. Some are fun, while some are more predictable. I always enjoy Phyrne’s free-spirited dalliances with young men and the patient loyalty of her companion, Dot, and Mr. and Mrs. Butler, her aptly-named butler and cook.
But here, there’s little room for other familiar characters, except for Detective Inspector Jack Robinson. Greenwood includes an excellent “Apologia” where she explains the limitations, and I particularly liked her background on Phryne – how she chose the name, the time period, her look, etc.
I also enjoy her thumbnail descriptions of introduced characters.
“a small, thin, plain woman of perhaps thirty. She was so self-effacing that she was hard to see. Her long blonde hair was scraped back into a migraine-inducing bun.
. . .
“The secretary was unbecomingly attired in a charcoal suit evidently cut out with some agricultural implement, and a dark cloche was dragged brutally down over her high forehead.”
. . .
“He had the sort of moustache that looked as though a caterpillar was making its way across his lip preparatory to disappearing up one nostril. His weak, ingratiating expression and watery blue eyes made Phryne want to hit him in the face with a half-brick.”
We don’t see much of her gun, but we know she has it handy when asking questions. Fans of Phryne will enjoy these stories, and the ‘Vanishing of Jock McHale’s Hat’ was made into one an episode of the popular ‘Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries’ TV series.
These are pleasant, bite-sized treats for fans of the books, and/or the TV series. I think it makes a difference to be familiar with the characters, so I’m not sure they’d be a good introduction to Phryne.
Thanks to #NetGalley and Sourcebooks/Poisoned Pen Press for the copy for review.
“‘What can a sheila do?’ snarled Jock McHale suddenly, and with frightening hostility. ‘What use is she?’
Phryne was filled with fury, but not a flicker showed on her face.
‘Mr McHale, if you please!’ said the Archbishop sternly. ‘Please overlook this outburst, Miss Fisher, he is a rough fellow.’”
Said the Archbishop to the stunningly beautiful lady detective. To fans of VFL (was Victorian, now Australian Football League - AFL - ‘Aussie Rules’), Jock McHale is a legend – unknown to me, but obviously revered by Collingwood and the AFL as the best coach ever. But I digress, which is an occupational hazard for readers of historical fiction.
Kerry Greenwood has taken this famous character and created a mystery around the disappearance (loss? theft?) of his well-worn lucky hat. McHale is convinced that it has been stolen to take away the luck his team needs in the upcoming game against Richmond (still arch-rivals today).
Catholic Archbishop Daniel Mannix was extremely influential for decades in Australia, but that’s another digression we don’t need to follow to enjoy the story.
Phryne, of course, calls on her old pals Bert and Cec to scout around in pubs and on the streets for any football gossip.
There are seventeen short stories in this collection, of varying interest to me. Some are fun, while some are more predictable. I always enjoy Phyrne’s free-spirited dalliances with young men and the patient loyalty of her companion, Dot, and Mr. and Mrs. Butler, her aptly-named butler and cook.
But here, there’s little room for other familiar characters, except for Detective Inspector Jack Robinson. Greenwood includes an excellent “Apologia” where she explains the limitations, and I particularly liked her background on Phryne – how she chose the name, the time period, her look, etc.
I also enjoy her thumbnail descriptions of introduced characters.
“a small, thin, plain woman of perhaps thirty. She was so self-effacing that she was hard to see. Her long blonde hair was scraped back into a migraine-inducing bun.
. . .
“The secretary was unbecomingly attired in a charcoal suit evidently cut out with some agricultural implement, and a dark cloche was dragged brutally down over her high forehead.”
. . .
“He had the sort of moustache that looked as though a caterpillar was making its way across his lip preparatory to disappearing up one nostril. His weak, ingratiating expression and watery blue eyes made Phryne want to hit him in the face with a half-brick.”
We don’t see much of her gun, but we know she has it handy when asking questions. Fans of Phryne will enjoy these stories, and the ‘Vanishing of Jock McHale’s Hat’ was made into one an episode of the popular ‘Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries’ TV series.
These are pleasant, bite-sized treats for fans of the books, and/or the TV series. I think it makes a difference to be familiar with the characters, so I’m not sure they’d be a good introduction to Phryne.
Thanks to #NetGalley and Sourcebooks/Poisoned Pen Press for the copy for review.
April 2, 2021
The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions by Aussie author Kerry Greenwood is a delightful collection of stories set in 1928, Melbourne and featuring the irrepressible and enigmatic Miss Phryne Fisher, along with her loyal friends.
Some stories were longer than others; some were more intriguing than others, but I particularly liked Hotel Splendide. Phryne’s quick wit and way of immediately judging a character good or bad; her tricks of the trade and kind heart, had her seeing through the hotel clerk before he’d fully completed his monologue. Phryne’s novels are something I enjoy, and this collection of short stories doesn’t disappoint. Recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Some stories were longer than others; some were more intriguing than others, but I particularly liked Hotel Splendide. Phryne’s quick wit and way of immediately judging a character good or bad; her tricks of the trade and kind heart, had her seeing through the hotel clerk before he’d fully completed his monologue. Phryne’s novels are something I enjoy, and this collection of short stories doesn’t disappoint. Recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2024
At the height of the pandemic, I became obsessed with two things: the first thing were those satisfying soap videos on Youtube, and the second was a series called Miss Fisher's Murder Mysterious. I intended to read the books that the series was based on...until I found out that there were more than 20 books and then I was like "Ain't nobody got time for that." This is a collection of short stories that give you a taste of the whole series which is the Hon. Phyrne Fisher solving mysteries (while wearing fabulous clothes), kicking ass and smashing the patriarchy. It's delicious and I finished the book within a couple of days.
Slight (Book) Spoiler Below:
If you were like me and shipped the hell out of Phyrne and Jack in the show.... well, they are not a thing in the books. Jack has a whole wife and kids. I cried and fell to my knees 😭
Slight (Book) Spoiler Below:
If you were like me and shipped the hell out of Phyrne and Jack in the show.... well, they are not a thing in the books. Jack has a whole wife and kids. I cried and fell to my knees 😭
May 12, 2022
Publication Date: 17th May 2022
3.8 Stars
One Liner: Entertaining and fun.
So this is one of those rare instances where I watched the shows before reading the book. Miss Fisher’s Mysteries was one of the two series I watched on Netflix. Needless to say, I loved the show. Essie Davis as Phryne and Nathan Page as ahem... Jack Robinson made my heart go aww with their onscreen chemistry.
Anyway... back to the book.
Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a collection of seventeen short stories or cases solved by Phryne. Most of them are short, cute, interesting, and entertaining. Some are dramatic and elaborate; it’s Phryne, after all!
The writing is easy to read and tinged with the kind of humor I love to read. Phryne being a no-nonsense investigator with loads of sass and smartness makes her a delightful personality. No ramblings or inner monologues.
The following are the cases I enjoyed. Most of them have a dominant human emotion as a theme, which becomes clear as the case is solved.
Hotel Splendide: The first story in the book, it introduces Phryne as she solves the case of a missing husband.
Marrying the Bookie’s Daughter: This one has a couple of layers and almost a parallel track. It shows the vulnerable side of Phyrne (though it doesn’t last long).
Puttin’ on the Ritz: This is a short case where simplicity wins over elaborate scheming. A fun piece too.
Overheard on a Balcony: This has a slightly more emotional quotient and some good drama. Phryne does what she does the best; make decisions based on people and the situation.
Death Shall be Dead: This one is a kind of brainy case with references to works from history and classic English Literature. Imagine my surprise to see Jack happily married and with kids. Gasp!
Carnival:This is an interesting case and full of drama by a rich brat. I wish this was slightly longer and more detailed.
The Camberwall Wonder: Yet another case that requires some brainy work, which Phryne solves with ease. This also shows how cultural appropriation was a thing even in the 1920s (and Australia). Sigh!
The Boxer: Mrs. Ragnell wants Phryne to find her missing granddaughter. But Phryne discovers there’s more to it. A bittersweet tale dealing with the dark side of society.
The Bells of St Paul’s: This story is more of the sweet kind than a criminal case. It’s rather cute, even if there is no big mystery as such. A happy ending to the collection of stories.
I have to mention that I loved reading the author’s note at the beginning of the book. She talks about how she created the character and the research that went into writing the books. My favorite part is when she said she wanted to create an assertive and confident female sleuth (very much unlike the anxious TSTL amateur sleuths we see in cozy mysteries).
To sum up, Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a light cozy mystery collection with Phryne Fisher solving one intriguing case after another. You’ll enjoy this if you are a fan of cozy mysteries and prefer a sensible heroine to handle the job.
Thank you, NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
*****
P.S: I did my best not to compare the book to the TV show (that would be unfair). But I did imagine the stories with the same characters, and that sure enriched my reading experience. Why not when the cast is so talented and good-looking? ;)
3.8 Stars
One Liner: Entertaining and fun.
So this is one of those rare instances where I watched the shows before reading the book. Miss Fisher’s Mysteries was one of the two series I watched on Netflix. Needless to say, I loved the show. Essie Davis as Phryne and Nathan Page as ahem... Jack Robinson made my heart go aww with their onscreen chemistry.
Anyway... back to the book.
Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a collection of seventeen short stories or cases solved by Phryne. Most of them are short, cute, interesting, and entertaining. Some are dramatic and elaborate; it’s Phryne, after all!
The writing is easy to read and tinged with the kind of humor I love to read. Phryne being a no-nonsense investigator with loads of sass and smartness makes her a delightful personality. No ramblings or inner monologues.
The following are the cases I enjoyed. Most of them have a dominant human emotion as a theme, which becomes clear as the case is solved.
Hotel Splendide: The first story in the book, it introduces Phryne as she solves the case of a missing husband.
Marrying the Bookie’s Daughter: This one has a couple of layers and almost a parallel track. It shows the vulnerable side of Phyrne (though it doesn’t last long).
Puttin’ on the Ritz: This is a short case where simplicity wins over elaborate scheming. A fun piece too.
Overheard on a Balcony: This has a slightly more emotional quotient and some good drama. Phryne does what she does the best; make decisions based on people and the situation.
Death Shall be Dead: This one is a kind of brainy case with references to works from history and classic English Literature. Imagine my surprise to see Jack happily married and with kids. Gasp!
Carnival:This is an interesting case and full of drama by a rich brat. I wish this was slightly longer and more detailed.
The Camberwall Wonder: Yet another case that requires some brainy work, which Phryne solves with ease. This also shows how cultural appropriation was a thing even in the 1920s (and Australia). Sigh!
The Boxer: Mrs. Ragnell wants Phryne to find her missing granddaughter. But Phryne discovers there’s more to it. A bittersweet tale dealing with the dark side of society.
The Bells of St Paul’s: This story is more of the sweet kind than a criminal case. It’s rather cute, even if there is no big mystery as such. A happy ending to the collection of stories.
I have to mention that I loved reading the author’s note at the beginning of the book. She talks about how she created the character and the research that went into writing the books. My favorite part is when she said she wanted to create an assertive and confident female sleuth (very much unlike the anxious TSTL amateur sleuths we see in cozy mysteries).
To sum up, Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a light cozy mystery collection with Phryne Fisher solving one intriguing case after another. You’ll enjoy this if you are a fan of cozy mysteries and prefer a sensible heroine to handle the job.
Thank you, NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
*****
P.S: I did my best not to compare the book to the TV show (that would be unfair). But I did imagine the stories with the same characters, and that sure enriched my reading experience. Why not when the cast is so talented and good-looking? ;)
July 10, 2021
The Lady With The Gun Asks The Questions is a collection of seventeen short stories of varying length in the Phryne Fisher series by Australian author, Kerry Greenwood. Thirteen of the stories have been published previously (A Question of Death, 2007) and are presented here with some minor alterations; four stories are new. The audio version is narrated by Wendy Bos. In her introduction, Greenwood tells how Phryne came to be, and the writing process she follows with these novels.
In these stories, the inimitable Phryne: helps a distraught Australian wife in Paris; at one of her exclusive soirees, Death attends thrice; Phryne avenges a badly-done-by secretary, restores Collingwood’s chances at an important match, retrieves purloined pearls for a good cause, uncovers a brothel, gambles for an important locket, riddles with a book thief, assists in a case of a half-burnt house with four dead bodies, foils a two-legged snake at the circus, and helps prove the innocence of a confessor to a murder.
Christmas in June turns deadly for a blackmailer; a playboy meets a deserving end; Phryne receives a marriage proposal; a missing granddaughter is found and not returned; theft of client valuables from a hair salon is investigated; the saboteur of hand-made chocolates is revealed; and church bells ring in code to aid true love.
In addition to the Hon. Miss Phryne Fisher and the regular cast of the novels, featured in these stories, set in Paris, Melbourne, and Hobart, are an Archbishop, a temperance lecturer, a well-intentioned MP, a nasty retired General, a Hungarian poet, a loyal hound, a troupe of carnies, a smuggler, a madrigal choir, a loathsome grandmother, a mad doctor, a bombastic MP’s wife and a former tent boxer.
Greenwood includes a handy glossary of 1920s terms, but absent from this edition are the lavish and charming colour illustrations by Beth Norling, the Interview with Phryne Fisher, her tips on discouraging overenthusiastic suitors, and the recipes for cocktails, cakes and some sumptuous dishes that graced the earlier edition. Fans can decide if the four new stories are sufficient compensation. These are excellent little doses of a favourite Aussie investigator.
In these stories, the inimitable Phryne: helps a distraught Australian wife in Paris; at one of her exclusive soirees, Death attends thrice; Phryne avenges a badly-done-by secretary, restores Collingwood’s chances at an important match, retrieves purloined pearls for a good cause, uncovers a brothel, gambles for an important locket, riddles with a book thief, assists in a case of a half-burnt house with four dead bodies, foils a two-legged snake at the circus, and helps prove the innocence of a confessor to a murder.
Christmas in June turns deadly for a blackmailer; a playboy meets a deserving end; Phryne receives a marriage proposal; a missing granddaughter is found and not returned; theft of client valuables from a hair salon is investigated; the saboteur of hand-made chocolates is revealed; and church bells ring in code to aid true love.
In addition to the Hon. Miss Phryne Fisher and the regular cast of the novels, featured in these stories, set in Paris, Melbourne, and Hobart, are an Archbishop, a temperance lecturer, a well-intentioned MP, a nasty retired General, a Hungarian poet, a loyal hound, a troupe of carnies, a smuggler, a madrigal choir, a loathsome grandmother, a mad doctor, a bombastic MP’s wife and a former tent boxer.
Greenwood includes a handy glossary of 1920s terms, but absent from this edition are the lavish and charming colour illustrations by Beth Norling, the Interview with Phryne Fisher, her tips on discouraging overenthusiastic suitors, and the recipes for cocktails, cakes and some sumptuous dishes that graced the earlier edition. Fans can decide if the four new stories are sufficient compensation. These are excellent little doses of a favourite Aussie investigator.
March 29, 2021
The Honourable Phryne (which rhymes with briny) Fisher is a private detective who’s ahead of her time. A strong, intelligent woman who carries a handgun and drives a luxury car, Miss Fisher consistently outwits whoever she comes up against.
This collection includes recently edited stories set in 1928 that were originally published in A Question of Death and four new stories set in 1929.
Hotel Splendide
The Voice is Jacob’s Voice
Marrying the Bookie’s Daughter
The Vanishing of Jock McHale’s Hat
Puttin’ on the Ritz
The Body in the Library
The Miracle of St Mungo
Overheard on a Balcony
The Hours of Juana the Mad
Death Shall Be Dead
Carnival
The Camberwall Wonder
Come, Sable Night
The Boxer
A Matter of Style
The Chocolate Factory
The Bells of St Paul’s
This was one of the best kinds of book mail: the unexpected kind. It was also my introduction to the world that Phryne Fisher inhabits. I’d previously heard of the Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries TV series but haven’t watched any.
While it’s noted that the author completes extensive research prior to writing each book in the series, I couldn’t have pinpointed the time period that many of these short stories were set in had I not already been told in the author’s introduction.
I expect readers who follow this series will love the opportunity to follow Miss Fisher as she solves these short mysteries, potentially getting to know recurring characters in more depth.
Thank you so much to Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read this book. I’m rounding up from 3.5 stars.
Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com
This collection includes recently edited stories set in 1928 that were originally published in A Question of Death and four new stories set in 1929.
Hotel Splendide
‘Now, I am about to do something thoroughly unlawful, and if you do not want to watch I should stay here with Madame until I have done it.’Miss Fisher, staying in a Paris hotel, helps a fellow Aussie find her missing husband.
The Voice is Jacob’s Voice
‘Now hush, I’m eavesdropping.’No one told Miss Fisher it possibly wasn’t the best idea to invite both Jacob and Esau Tipping to her Winter Solstice party.
Marrying the Bookie’s Daughter
‘I am what I am and I behave as I wish and I will not be dictated to by anyone.’Miss Fisher and Lindsay attend a wedding. Miss Fisher considers a marriage proposal.
The Vanishing of Jock McHale’s Hat
‘Football produces strange passions.’An Archbishop needs Miss Fisher’s help to find a hat.
Puttin’ on the Ritz
‘Will, old thing, I am enjoying myself and all that, but what do you want to tell me? Can we get it over with, so that we can devote all of our attention to the food?’Miss Fisher aims to return some pearls to their rightful owner.
The Body in the Library
‘There’s going to be a scandal, you know.’Miss Fisher helps Detective Inspector Jack Robinson solve a murder.
The Miracle of St Mungo
‘I have got into a … difficulty.’Miss Fisher outsmarts a blackmailer.
Overheard on a Balcony
‘Are you going to turn me in, Phryne?’A Christmas dinner in June is one diner’s final meal.
The Hours of Juana the Mad
‘The Book is in the safe. You see, we look after it well.’The Book is not in the safe.
Death Shall Be Dead
‘So now we’ve got a mystery, and a murderer to find,’ he observed. ‘Any ideas?’Miss Fisher helps Detective Inspector Robinson solve a mystery involving fire, death and a loyal dog.
Carnival
‘I love carnivals.’Miss Fisher would have had a more uneventful time at the carnival if she’d been accompanied by a different escort.
The Camberwall Wonder
He said slowly, ‘I killed Mr Clarke. I killed him.’Stevie has confessed to murder but his mother is certain that he couldn’t have done it.
Come, Sable Night
‘If I started to get worried about every corpse I saw, I’d be a wreck.’Miss Fisher’s evening consists of music, gossip and a corpse.
The Boxer
It was a cold winter’s day in St Kilda, and Mrs Ragnell was wrapped up so tightly in furs and a sense of personal grievance that she resembled a polar bear with a hangover.Mrs Ragnell hires Miss Fisher to find her missing granddaughter.
A Matter of Style
The Salon de Paris this Thursday morning was anything but quiet.The staff of Miss Fisher’s hairdresser are accused of stealing from their customers.
The Chocolate Factory
‘Well, girls, what do you think?’Miss Fisher’s portrait is going to be used on the box of a new assortment of chocolates.
The Bells of St Paul’s
‘Miss Phryne, what’s wrong with the bells? They ring them every day.’There’s a message in the tolling of the bells.
This was one of the best kinds of book mail: the unexpected kind. It was also my introduction to the world that Phryne Fisher inhabits. I’d previously heard of the Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries TV series but haven’t watched any.
While it’s noted that the author completes extensive research prior to writing each book in the series, I couldn’t have pinpointed the time period that many of these short stories were set in had I not already been told in the author’s introduction.
I expect readers who follow this series will love the opportunity to follow Miss Fisher as she solves these short mysteries, potentially getting to know recurring characters in more depth.
Thank you so much to Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read this book. I’m rounding up from 3.5 stars.
Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com
December 24, 2021
Halleluiah! Another outing with the Honorable Phryne Fisher! The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is mostly a reissue from 2009; those short stories from the original anthology are set in 1928. However, author Kerry Greenwood has thoughtfully added four new stories, and those are set in 1929.
There’s not a dud amongst the 17 stories, but readers will especially love “Hotel Splendide,” “Marry the Bookie’s Daughter,” “Overheard on a Balcony,” “Death Shall be Dead,” “Carnival” and “The Camberwell Wonder.”
There’s not a dud amongst the 17 stories, but readers will especially love “Hotel Splendide,” “Marry the Bookie’s Daughter,” “Overheard on a Balcony,” “Death Shall be Dead,” “Carnival” and “The Camberwell Wonder.”
June 22, 2021
The Lady With The Gun Asks The Questions is a collection of seventeen short stories of varying length in the Phryne Fisher series by Australian author, Kerry Greenwood. Thirteen of the stories have been published previously (A Question of Death, 2007) and are presented here with some minor alterations; four stories are new. In her introduction, Greenwood tells how Phryne came to be, and the writing process she follows with these novels.
In these stories, the inimitable Phryne: helps a distraught Australian wife in Paris; at one of her exclusive soirees, Death attends thrice; Phryne avenges a badly-done-by secretary, restores Collingwood’s chances at an important match, retrieves purloined pearls for a good cause, uncovers a brothel, gambles for an important locket, riddles with a book thief, assists in a case of a half-burnt house with four dead bodies, foils a two-legged snake at the circus, and helps prove the innocence of a confessor to a murder.
Christmas in June turns deadly for a blackmailer; a playboy meets a deserving end; Phryne receives a marriage proposal; a missing granddaughter is found and not returned; theft of client valuables from a hair salon is investigated; the saboteur of hand-made chocolates is revealed; and church bells ring in code to aid true love.
In addition to the Hon. Miss Phryne Fisher and the regular cast of the novels, featured in these stories, set in Paris, Melbourne, and Hobart, are an Archbishop, a temperance lecturer, a well-intentioned MP, a nasty retired General, a Hungarian poet, a loyal hound, a troupe of carnies, a smuggler, a madrigal choir, a loathsome grandmother, a mad doctor, a bombastic MP’s wife and a former tent boxer.
Greenwood includes a handy glossary of 1920s terms, but absent from this edition are the lavish and charming colour illustrations by Beth Norling, the Interview with Phryne Fisher, her tips on discouraging overenthusiastic suitors, and the recipes for cocktails, cakes and some sumptuous dishes that graced the earlier edition. Fans can decide if the four new stories are sufficient compensation. These are excellent little doses of a favourite Aussie investigator.
In these stories, the inimitable Phryne: helps a distraught Australian wife in Paris; at one of her exclusive soirees, Death attends thrice; Phryne avenges a badly-done-by secretary, restores Collingwood’s chances at an important match, retrieves purloined pearls for a good cause, uncovers a brothel, gambles for an important locket, riddles with a book thief, assists in a case of a half-burnt house with four dead bodies, foils a two-legged snake at the circus, and helps prove the innocence of a confessor to a murder.
Christmas in June turns deadly for a blackmailer; a playboy meets a deserving end; Phryne receives a marriage proposal; a missing granddaughter is found and not returned; theft of client valuables from a hair salon is investigated; the saboteur of hand-made chocolates is revealed; and church bells ring in code to aid true love.
In addition to the Hon. Miss Phryne Fisher and the regular cast of the novels, featured in these stories, set in Paris, Melbourne, and Hobart, are an Archbishop, a temperance lecturer, a well-intentioned MP, a nasty retired General, a Hungarian poet, a loyal hound, a troupe of carnies, a smuggler, a madrigal choir, a loathsome grandmother, a mad doctor, a bombastic MP’s wife and a former tent boxer.
Greenwood includes a handy glossary of 1920s terms, but absent from this edition are the lavish and charming colour illustrations by Beth Norling, the Interview with Phryne Fisher, her tips on discouraging overenthusiastic suitors, and the recipes for cocktails, cakes and some sumptuous dishes that graced the earlier edition. Fans can decide if the four new stories are sufficient compensation. These are excellent little doses of a favourite Aussie investigator.
May 5, 2022
"God defend me from my friends."
The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is 17 short stories about Miss Phryne Fisher.
"I'd say that you are suffering from an overactive imagination, Miss Fisher."
Phryne Fisher is a lady detective in Australia at the end of the 1920s. Although she travels in different places like Paris and London. She is a rich and intelligent young woman who easily solves cases. She isn't completely in law and does whatever she might think is right!
I plan to read Phryne Fisher for a few years, and I find that the short stories are a good start. I like the plot and light mysteries, which are well described and built, I recommend it, very creative and entertaining for a collection of short stories. I especially like Puttin' on the Ritz and Death shall Be Dead was a nice dog-friendly story.
But, I'm afraid maybe this wasn't a good book for starts. I could not enjoy the characters, and it was like I do not know Phryne surrounded by crazy rich people. َAlso, she comes up with mysteries that were a little odd and unlogical, but I don't like to consider these negative points, it may be better if I read the first book and give it a chance!
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley for giving me a chance of reading The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions by Kerry Greenwood, I have given my honest review.
Pub Date 17 May 2022
The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is 17 short stories about Miss Phryne Fisher.
"I'd say that you are suffering from an overactive imagination, Miss Fisher."
Phryne Fisher is a lady detective in Australia at the end of the 1920s. Although she travels in different places like Paris and London. She is a rich and intelligent young woman who easily solves cases. She isn't completely in law and does whatever she might think is right!
I plan to read Phryne Fisher for a few years, and I find that the short stories are a good start. I like the plot and light mysteries, which are well described and built, I recommend it, very creative and entertaining for a collection of short stories. I especially like Puttin' on the Ritz and Death shall Be Dead was a nice dog-friendly story.
But, I'm afraid maybe this wasn't a good book for starts. I could not enjoy the characters, and it was like I do not know Phryne surrounded by crazy rich people. َAlso, she comes up with mysteries that were a little odd and unlogical, but I don't like to consider these negative points, it may be better if I read the first book and give it a chance!
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley for giving me a chance of reading The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions by Kerry Greenwood, I have given my honest review.
Pub Date 17 May 2022
March 31, 2021
If you are not yet familiar with the Honourable Miss Phryne Fisher, then this collection of short stories is a wonderful introduction to the elegant, sensual, and sassy lady private detective, while established fans will enjoy the opportunity to again accompany the intrepid investigator on her adventures in 1920’s Melbourne, and occasionally further afield.
In her introduction to The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions, tagged ‘The ultimate Miss Phryne Fisher Collection’, Kerry Greenwood shares a little about how she developed Phryne, and her writing process. Greenwood also reminds readers that there are several significant differences between the world of the book series and that of the television series - Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries. That said, anyone familiar with only the show will recognise Phryne’s companions, as well as several settings and scenes.
I was a little disappointed to find that of the seventeen short stories offered in The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions, there are only four new tales, set around the same time as the 21st book in the series, Death in Daylesford, published earlier this year. The bulk have been published previously in a 2008 collection, A Question of Death, though Greenwood comments that some of these have since been edited to fit better with the chronology of the series.
Regardless, whether Phryne is searching for a missing husband, or a hat, outsmarting a blackmailer, or a cheat, or identifying a murderer, I found all of the story’s in The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions to be engaging. As always, I love Phryne’s dry observations and quick wit, her disinclination for suffering fools and her bent for natural justice.
Clever, entertaining, and charming, I found The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions to be a delight to read.
In her introduction to The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions, tagged ‘The ultimate Miss Phryne Fisher Collection’, Kerry Greenwood shares a little about how she developed Phryne, and her writing process. Greenwood also reminds readers that there are several significant differences between the world of the book series and that of the television series - Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries. That said, anyone familiar with only the show will recognise Phryne’s companions, as well as several settings and scenes.
I was a little disappointed to find that of the seventeen short stories offered in The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions, there are only four new tales, set around the same time as the 21st book in the series, Death in Daylesford, published earlier this year. The bulk have been published previously in a 2008 collection, A Question of Death, though Greenwood comments that some of these have since been edited to fit better with the chronology of the series.
Regardless, whether Phryne is searching for a missing husband, or a hat, outsmarting a blackmailer, or a cheat, or identifying a murderer, I found all of the story’s in The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions to be engaging. As always, I love Phryne’s dry observations and quick wit, her disinclination for suffering fools and her bent for natural justice.
Clever, entertaining, and charming, I found The Lady With the Gun Asks the Questions to be a delight to read.
April 13, 2021
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Chic and dignified, Miss Phryne Fisher is the epitome of 1920s glamour. With plenty of sass and pizzazz, this beautiful detective charms her way through the various crimes that come her way. Now immortalised on the small and big screen, this enigmatic literary heroine returns in a short story collection, which features four brand new adventures. The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a lively read for fans old and new of the honourable Phryne Fisher.
Travel back in time to Melbourne in the 1920s in the company of the esteemed Miss Fisher, as she uses her beauty, wit, intelligence and elegance to solve a variety of mysteries. There is no doubting Miss Fisher’s natural charm and sharp mind as she works to solve some of Melbourne’s most baffling crimes. Each of the cases presented in this short story collection are perplexing, amusing, merry and besetting. Accompanying Miss Fisher on her crime-based adventures are her entourage, which includes gentle Dot, Mr Butler and Detective Jack. With the support of these allies, Miss Fisher seizes the day yet again when there is a crime to be solved.
The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions (intriguing title) is a 2021 publication from Allen and Unwin. Seventeen short stories that all feature the invincible Miss Phryne Fisher fill this collection. Four of the stories included in Kerry Greenwood’s title are brand new, while the remaining tales are taken from a previous treasury. All are based around the same location and time frame, Melbourne in the year 1928. This is a setting and era that I find very intriguing, so the opportunity to read The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions definitely appealed.
I am a big fan of the both the page and screen versions of Miss Fisher. I finished viewing the television series some time ago now and I plan to watch the feature length movie very soon. I have also been making my way through the twenty strong book collection of the Phryne Fisher Mysteries series. The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions offered me a great opportunity to join one of my favourite literary heroines on a handful of new adventures. Although it would have been nice to have a collection of all new mysteries in this release, the four I was granted with was very much welcomed on my behalf. I did feel I relied upon my own background knowledge of both the previous books and the television series to navigate through this new volume of stories. There was a spasmodic feel to this compilation at times and as I am generally not a fan of the short story format, I did have to work hard to attain the full entertainment value of this assortment of Miss Fisher puzzles. However, I couldn’t fault the history, period detail and setting base, along with the loyal characterisation. Kerry Greenwood knows her cast like the back of her hand. This release was no exception to her previous works.
An opening ‘Apologia’ from author Kerry Greenwood precedes this collection and it is worth reading prior to starting your journey with The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions. Following this bonus extra is a six-page spread on Phryne Fisher. This supplement gives the reader an essential insight into the origins of this amazing character, her background, past, early beginnings and Kerry Greenwood’s intentions for her page creation. I found this beneficial as a fan of the series. An accompanying Glossary at close of the book rounds off this collection nicely. The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a fine addition to the Phryne Fisher Mysteries series.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is book #30 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
Chic and dignified, Miss Phryne Fisher is the epitome of 1920s glamour. With plenty of sass and pizzazz, this beautiful detective charms her way through the various crimes that come her way. Now immortalised on the small and big screen, this enigmatic literary heroine returns in a short story collection, which features four brand new adventures. The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a lively read for fans old and new of the honourable Phryne Fisher.
Travel back in time to Melbourne in the 1920s in the company of the esteemed Miss Fisher, as she uses her beauty, wit, intelligence and elegance to solve a variety of mysteries. There is no doubting Miss Fisher’s natural charm and sharp mind as she works to solve some of Melbourne’s most baffling crimes. Each of the cases presented in this short story collection are perplexing, amusing, merry and besetting. Accompanying Miss Fisher on her crime-based adventures are her entourage, which includes gentle Dot, Mr Butler and Detective Jack. With the support of these allies, Miss Fisher seizes the day yet again when there is a crime to be solved.
The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions (intriguing title) is a 2021 publication from Allen and Unwin. Seventeen short stories that all feature the invincible Miss Phryne Fisher fill this collection. Four of the stories included in Kerry Greenwood’s title are brand new, while the remaining tales are taken from a previous treasury. All are based around the same location and time frame, Melbourne in the year 1928. This is a setting and era that I find very intriguing, so the opportunity to read The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions definitely appealed.
I am a big fan of the both the page and screen versions of Miss Fisher. I finished viewing the television series some time ago now and I plan to watch the feature length movie very soon. I have also been making my way through the twenty strong book collection of the Phryne Fisher Mysteries series. The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions offered me a great opportunity to join one of my favourite literary heroines on a handful of new adventures. Although it would have been nice to have a collection of all new mysteries in this release, the four I was granted with was very much welcomed on my behalf. I did feel I relied upon my own background knowledge of both the previous books and the television series to navigate through this new volume of stories. There was a spasmodic feel to this compilation at times and as I am generally not a fan of the short story format, I did have to work hard to attain the full entertainment value of this assortment of Miss Fisher puzzles. However, I couldn’t fault the history, period detail and setting base, along with the loyal characterisation. Kerry Greenwood knows her cast like the back of her hand. This release was no exception to her previous works.
An opening ‘Apologia’ from author Kerry Greenwood precedes this collection and it is worth reading prior to starting your journey with The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions. Following this bonus extra is a six-page spread on Phryne Fisher. This supplement gives the reader an essential insight into the origins of this amazing character, her background, past, early beginnings and Kerry Greenwood’s intentions for her page creation. I found this beneficial as a fan of the series. An accompanying Glossary at close of the book rounds off this collection nicely. The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is a fine addition to the Phryne Fisher Mysteries series.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions is book #30 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
February 3, 2022
In this collection of detective stories, Phryne Fisher recovers missing jewelry and missing people, thwarts blackmailers, and cracks codes, all while remaining as cool and unflappable as ever.
I adore the Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The author wrote a short note at the beginning of the book about how Miss Fisher came to be - she wanted to write a sort of female James Bond, with the glamour and the adventure and the romance, except better than James Bond because her books are not sexist or racist. But in a lot of ways Phryne reminds me of Flora Poste from Cold Comfort Farm as well, with all that cool competency.
That glamour and cool competency is on full display in this collection. The mysteries vary in tone and severity, from the macabre "Dead Shall Be Dead" to the playful "The Hours of Juana the Mad." I enjoyed this variety because reading death and dreariness repeatedly can become a bit of a downer. My favorite story was "Puttin' on the Ritz" because it quite made me laugh.
And important thing to note is that this collection is a reissue of a previous one, A Question of Death: An Illustrated Phryne Fisher Treasury, with four new stories included. As I had not read the old collection, this was fine by me, but owners of A Question of Death: An Illustrated Phryne Fisher Treasury would likely be better off with a library copy of this book. I also docked a star because some of the stories got a little convoluted in their unravelling of the solutions, making them a touch hard to follow.
Overall, a really enjoyable read and a good introduction into the world of Phryne Fisher.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I adore the Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The author wrote a short note at the beginning of the book about how Miss Fisher came to be - she wanted to write a sort of female James Bond, with the glamour and the adventure and the romance, except better than James Bond because her books are not sexist or racist. But in a lot of ways Phryne reminds me of Flora Poste from Cold Comfort Farm as well, with all that cool competency.
That glamour and cool competency is on full display in this collection. The mysteries vary in tone and severity, from the macabre "Dead Shall Be Dead" to the playful "The Hours of Juana the Mad." I enjoyed this variety because reading death and dreariness repeatedly can become a bit of a downer. My favorite story was "Puttin' on the Ritz" because it quite made me laugh.
And important thing to note is that this collection is a reissue of a previous one, A Question of Death: An Illustrated Phryne Fisher Treasury, with four new stories included. As I had not read the old collection, this was fine by me, but owners of A Question of Death: An Illustrated Phryne Fisher Treasury would likely be better off with a library copy of this book. I also docked a star because some of the stories got a little convoluted in their unravelling of the solutions, making them a touch hard to follow.
Overall, a really enjoyable read and a good introduction into the world of Phryne Fisher.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
May 22, 2022
3.5 stars for this enjoyable collection of short stories.
It was fun to see Phryne in action, solving simple cases with her wit and flair, while always looking fabulously fashionable.
I lived in Melbourne for a few years (way back in the early 1980s) and it was interesting to wander with Phyrne in neighborhoods that I remember.
The author's introduction, relating how she came to 'invent' Phryne, is delightful.
It was fun to see Phryne in action, solving simple cases with her wit and flair, while always looking fabulously fashionable.
I lived in Melbourne for a few years (way back in the early 1980s) and it was interesting to wander with Phyrne in neighborhoods that I remember.
The author's introduction, relating how she came to 'invent' Phryne, is delightful.
February 8, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
It is always such a joy to read Kerry Greenwood's books. I love how Phryne will always fight for justice and ignore a few rules in pursuit of it. I envy her courage and style and how she enjoys every moment of her life without owning anyone an explanation. She does as she pleases, and absolutely nothing fazes her- unless someone does some else an injustice. Then the bad guys should run, because Phryne in pursuit of justice is a sight to behold. I also love how effortlessly all the meticulous research blends into the narrative. Greenwood has a wonderful way of making Phryne's Melbourne come to life, and it's always fun to lose yourself all over again in her glamorous, but also at times incredibly ugly, world.
That said, I don't always enjoy short Phryne novels or, in this case, short stories as mysteries. (And in fact, Greenwood explains in an author's note that she never really set out to write mysteries.) As I said, I am in awe of the world Greenwood created and love re-visiting it, but I don't read them for the mystery. I read them for Phryne. My problem is basically that the shorter the story, the less time is spent on the murder, and Phryne will ultimately just KNOW who the killer is. But as a reader, you're not given enough to figure it out yourself. It's an approach that still works for me, because as I said, I'm here for Phryne, but still. Also, it didn't help that most of these stories were adapted for the amazing TV show, and I enjoyed those a lot more. And yes, I know that the books and the show have very little in common, but when I read a story about characters I've already met and actually prefer what the TV show did with them? Oh well...
All in all, I still really enjoyed these stories and would say they make a nice introduction to Phryne's world for new readers, as they can be enjoyed without knowing more of the series. And for those of us already in love with Phryne, this is just a lovely collection to read on dreary afternoons when you just want to escape the outside world.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
It is always such a joy to read Kerry Greenwood's books. I love how Phryne will always fight for justice and ignore a few rules in pursuit of it. I envy her courage and style and how she enjoys every moment of her life without owning anyone an explanation. She does as she pleases, and absolutely nothing fazes her- unless someone does some else an injustice. Then the bad guys should run, because Phryne in pursuit of justice is a sight to behold. I also love how effortlessly all the meticulous research blends into the narrative. Greenwood has a wonderful way of making Phryne's Melbourne come to life, and it's always fun to lose yourself all over again in her glamorous, but also at times incredibly ugly, world.
That said, I don't always enjoy short Phryne novels or, in this case, short stories as mysteries. (And in fact, Greenwood explains in an author's note that she never really set out to write mysteries.) As I said, I am in awe of the world Greenwood created and love re-visiting it, but I don't read them for the mystery. I read them for Phryne. My problem is basically that the shorter the story, the less time is spent on the murder, and Phryne will ultimately just KNOW who the killer is. But as a reader, you're not given enough to figure it out yourself. It's an approach that still works for me, because as I said, I'm here for Phryne, but still. Also, it didn't help that most of these stories were adapted for the amazing TV show, and I enjoyed those a lot more. And yes, I know that the books and the show have very little in common, but when I read a story about characters I've already met and actually prefer what the TV show did with them? Oh well...
All in all, I still really enjoyed these stories and would say they make a nice introduction to Phryne's world for new readers, as they can be enjoyed without knowing more of the series. And for those of us already in love with Phryne, this is just a lovely collection to read on dreary afternoons when you just want to escape the outside world.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
November 14, 2022
It's been quite a few years since I've read a Phryne Fisher book. And what a delight it is to be back! Here we have 17 stories. I hear 13 of them were published previously, and 4 are new, but I've never read short stories set in this series so this was all new to me.
The mysteries vary from finding missing people, dealing with bullies and blackmailers to weird bell chimes. There is one story set in Paris and I gather the events take place before Phryne goes to Australia. There are new and old lovers, the beloved gang is here too. I read the whole collection in two sittings, once one story was finished I had to start another one immediately. The fans of the series will undoubtedly love this but even if you are new it could be a good introduction point.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The mysteries vary from finding missing people, dealing with bullies and blackmailers to weird bell chimes. There is one story set in Paris and I gather the events take place before Phryne goes to Australia. There are new and old lovers, the beloved gang is here too. I read the whole collection in two sittings, once one story was finished I had to start another one immediately. The fans of the series will undoubtedly love this but even if you are new it could be a good introduction point.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2021
An interesting and sometimes amusing collection of short stories, even though I am sure I have read some of them before.
My problem is that the joy of reading Phryne Fisher books is her interaction with a cast of interesting characters and getting involved with the way she works her way through intriguing and difficult investigations. With these stories the cast of characters is almost non-existent and the cases are solved far too quickly.
My problem is that the joy of reading Phryne Fisher books is her interaction with a cast of interesting characters and getting involved with the way she works her way through intriguing and difficult investigations. With these stories the cast of characters is almost non-existent and the cases are solved far too quickly.
June 23, 2022
A collection of short stories, all involving Phyrne Fisher the sassy, society beauty of vintage Melbourne fame who through sheer intelligence and wonderful detective skills in very short time solves the most vexatious problem
Seventeen short stories which I read of an evening as each one was better than the one that went before. Different settings, different people of different walks of life. Phyrne though rich and famous never looked down her nose on the poor or the downtrodden. These stories were so good I just
loved the lot.
Set in Melbourne of the 1920s in itself something unique, this feisty female character will be loved by any person who loves the detective genre.
Sent by Poisoned Pen Press for an unbiased review courtesy of Netgalley.
Seventeen short stories which I read of an evening as each one was better than the one that went before. Different settings, different people of different walks of life. Phyrne though rich and famous never looked down her nose on the poor or the downtrodden. These stories were so good I just
loved the lot.
Set in Melbourne of the 1920s in itself something unique, this feisty female character will be loved by any person who loves the detective genre.
Sent by Poisoned Pen Press for an unbiased review courtesy of Netgalley.
April 17, 2022
Opening: Dear Reader, Thank you very much for buying this book (and if you haven't bought it yet, please do so—I have cats to feed…
Only Kerry Greenwood could make an "Apologia" as interesting and delightful to read as the actual stories. Not only do I recommend readers start with there, and not skip "On Phryne Fisher" which is the author's introduction. From there, one jumps into the wonderful world of 17 wonderful short stories. There is also a very helpful Glossary at the end.
As per usual, one always has favorite stories.
"Hotel Splendide," a case of a missing husband and a missing hotel room, starts one off with the perfect amount of information as to Phryne's background, her style, her ability to take charge, and her enviable sangfroid.
"The Body in the Library" pairs Phryne and DI Jack Robinson and a not-so-pious reverend.
"Death Shall be Dead" includes DI Jack Robinson and a dog. How can one resist that? and
"The Bells of St. Paul's" begins with a tea at the Windsor that leaves one salivating and includes a message in the bells.
One wishes a few of the stories were novellas and a couple would make wonderful full-length novels.
The book may particularly appeal to fans of Phryne. There's not a lot of introduction to the secondary characters. The settings and the time at which the story occurs also jump around a bit. Even so, for new readers, this is an excellent way to experience Phryne and her world, and for those who already love Phryne, there is still the overwhelming desire to be her when one grows up.
THE LADY WITH THE GUN ASKS THE QUESTIONS is a treat. Some of the stories were previously published, some have been reworked slightly, and four are brand new. They are piquant, thoroughly entertaining, and not overly complicated. One may read one, a few, or all of them at a sitting as reading them may have the effect of potato chips; one just isn't enough.
THE LADY WITH THE GUN ASKS THE QUESTIONS (SS-Phryne Fisher-Australia-1920s) EX
Greenwood, Kerry – Short Story Collection
Poisoned Pen Press, May 2022, 272 pp.
Only Kerry Greenwood could make an "Apologia" as interesting and delightful to read as the actual stories. Not only do I recommend readers start with there, and not skip "On Phryne Fisher" which is the author's introduction. From there, one jumps into the wonderful world of 17 wonderful short stories. There is also a very helpful Glossary at the end.
As per usual, one always has favorite stories.
"Hotel Splendide," a case of a missing husband and a missing hotel room, starts one off with the perfect amount of information as to Phryne's background, her style, her ability to take charge, and her enviable sangfroid.
"The Body in the Library" pairs Phryne and DI Jack Robinson and a not-so-pious reverend.
"Death Shall be Dead" includes DI Jack Robinson and a dog. How can one resist that? and
"The Bells of St. Paul's" begins with a tea at the Windsor that leaves one salivating and includes a message in the bells.
One wishes a few of the stories were novellas and a couple would make wonderful full-length novels.
The book may particularly appeal to fans of Phryne. There's not a lot of introduction to the secondary characters. The settings and the time at which the story occurs also jump around a bit. Even so, for new readers, this is an excellent way to experience Phryne and her world, and for those who already love Phryne, there is still the overwhelming desire to be her when one grows up.
THE LADY WITH THE GUN ASKS THE QUESTIONS is a treat. Some of the stories were previously published, some have been reworked slightly, and four are brand new. They are piquant, thoroughly entertaining, and not overly complicated. One may read one, a few, or all of them at a sitting as reading them may have the effect of potato chips; one just isn't enough.
THE LADY WITH THE GUN ASKS THE QUESTIONS (SS-Phryne Fisher-Australia-1920s) EX
Greenwood, Kerry – Short Story Collection
Poisoned Pen Press, May 2022, 272 pp.
November 16, 2021
This has to be the most appropriate title for a Miss Phryne Fisher collection.
While the print edition won’t be published in the U.K. until May 2022, happily its audiobook edition is out now.
Of its seventeen stories, thirteen were published in her 2007 short story collection, ‘A Question of Death’, (out of print). This collection contains four new Phryne Fisher stories, some edits to the older stories and a witty and informative introduction by Kerry Greenwood.
As always, these were delightful glimpses into the glamorous life of The Honourable Phryne Fisher. I was also pleased to see that Book 21 in the main series will be available on Kindle later in November.
While the print edition won’t be published in the U.K. until May 2022, happily its audiobook edition is out now.
Of its seventeen stories, thirteen were published in her 2007 short story collection, ‘A Question of Death’, (out of print). This collection contains four new Phryne Fisher stories, some edits to the older stories and a witty and informative introduction by Kerry Greenwood.
As always, these were delightful glimpses into the glamorous life of The Honourable Phryne Fisher. I was also pleased to see that Book 21 in the main series will be available on Kindle later in November.
April 22, 2021
An absolute delight from beginning to end. This little book is so much more than a collection of short stories. Yes, the stories are vintage Phryne - almost literally as only 4 are new, but who cares? The bonus is the introduction telling us just how Phryne sprung to life and also how Kerry Greenwood sees the screen versus the book versions and why they are different. My only complaint is how to pause in reading - you finish one story and can't help but dive straight into the next one.
September 5, 2022
Pleasant set of stories, a bit lighter on sex than usual, where Phryne is her usual detecting self. I wasn’t pleased with the story involving characters with special needs, but really it’s just because the 20s terms and attitudes are now so offensive, and the terms turn up in other stories as well. I am sure the uses are intentional but I prefer my heroines unrealistically forward-thinking. There isn’t an overall arc for these but it’s still nice to visit with the gang.
May 29, 2024
The short story format just doesn't work well for Greenwood. One or two of these are okay, several are dreadful, and none give the pleasure of a good Phryne. Then again, her last Phryne novel was pretty bad too. As I said in my review of that book, I really think she's done with this character, and just writing to add extra $$$ to her accounts.
July 10, 2021
A wonderful and fun collection of short mystery stories featuring Miss Phryne Fisher. I thoroughly enjoyed this set of stories. They really suited my winter university holiday mood. I am aware that a great many of the tales included in this volume have appeared in other books in the series, but was fortunate to not have read them previously.
June 8, 2021
This is a collection of short stories where Phryne is drawn in to solve each of the mysteries at hand. Each was short, fast paced in keeping with their length, and typical Phryne. A great collection; easy to read and very entertaining.
June 17, 2021
The Lady With The Gun Asks the Questions by Kerry Greenwood is the ultimate Miss Phryne Fisher story collection.
Perfect Winter fireside reading with easy to read murder mystery stories.
Everything from poisoned chocolate mystery murder stories to specific events at carnivals and circuses.
I always love hearing about the fashion in these stories by Kerry Greenwood and how Phryne is dressed in the iconic fashion of the era.
I really enjoyed this short story collection and it should appeal to all Phryne Fisher fans.
Perfect Winter fireside reading with easy to read murder mystery stories.
Everything from poisoned chocolate mystery murder stories to specific events at carnivals and circuses.
I always love hearing about the fashion in these stories by Kerry Greenwood and how Phryne is dressed in the iconic fashion of the era.
I really enjoyed this short story collection and it should appeal to all Phryne Fisher fans.
February 4, 2023
3.5 stars
These short stories are mostly in the vein of the series, which I enjoyed revisiting here, though in short form they lack the immersive experience and build up of mystery that a novel can achieve.
These short stories are mostly in the vein of the series, which I enjoyed revisiting here, though in short form they lack the immersive experience and build up of mystery that a novel can achieve.
June 15, 2023
Pure fun, as all the Phyrne Fisher books are, and very entertaining. I prefer the novels though--these short stories (and most were very short) seldom went much past the set up and then and instant solution. Still a lot of fun to read though.
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