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Rowland Sinclair #0.2 - The Company of Rats
Dark Deeds Down Under
A vibrant southern constellation of crime writers.
Dark Deeds Down Under features the very best of modern Australian and New Zealand crime and mystery writing.
Spend time with some of your favourite Aussie and Kiwi cops, sleuths and accidental heroes, and meet some edgy new investigators.
A crew of beloved series characters - Corinna Chapman, Hirsch, Sam Shephard, Rowly Sinclair, Nick Chester, Murray Whelan - will lead you down dark alleys to meet our newer heroes - the Nancys, Penny Yee and Matiu, Alex Clayton, Kate Miles - and the stars of some cracking standalone tales.
Travel the criminal trails of two countries. From the dusty Outback to South Island glaciers, from ocean-carved coastlines and craggy mountains to sultry rainforests or Middle Earth valleys, and via sleepy towns to the seething underbellies of our cosmopolitan cities.
The 19 dark deeds herein are perpetrated
Alan Carter - Nikki Crutchley - Aoife Clifford - Garry Disher - Helen Vivienne Fletcher - Lisa Fuller - Sulari Gentill - Kerry Greenwood - Narrelle M. Harris - Katherine Kovacic - Shane Maloney - R.W.R. McDonald - Dinuka McKenzie - Dan Rabarts & Lee Murray - Renee - Stephen Ross - Fiona Sussman - Vanda Symon - David Whish-Wilson
'Punchy plotlines, contemporary themes, and familiar settings - you can't go wrong with this eclectic mix. Dip in and discover some new favourite writers.' - Michael Robotham
'A perfect showcase for the brilliant new wave of Antipodean crime writing.' - Val McDermid
Dark Deeds Down Under features the very best of modern Australian and New Zealand crime and mystery writing.
Spend time with some of your favourite Aussie and Kiwi cops, sleuths and accidental heroes, and meet some edgy new investigators.
A crew of beloved series characters - Corinna Chapman, Hirsch, Sam Shephard, Rowly Sinclair, Nick Chester, Murray Whelan - will lead you down dark alleys to meet our newer heroes - the Nancys, Penny Yee and Matiu, Alex Clayton, Kate Miles - and the stars of some cracking standalone tales.
Travel the criminal trails of two countries. From the dusty Outback to South Island glaciers, from ocean-carved coastlines and craggy mountains to sultry rainforests or Middle Earth valleys, and via sleepy towns to the seething underbellies of our cosmopolitan cities.
The 19 dark deeds herein are perpetrated
Alan Carter - Nikki Crutchley - Aoife Clifford - Garry Disher - Helen Vivienne Fletcher - Lisa Fuller - Sulari Gentill - Kerry Greenwood - Narrelle M. Harris - Katherine Kovacic - Shane Maloney - R.W.R. McDonald - Dinuka McKenzie - Dan Rabarts & Lee Murray - Renee - Stephen Ross - Fiona Sussman - Vanda Symon - David Whish-Wilson
'Punchy plotlines, contemporary themes, and familiar settings - you can't go wrong with this eclectic mix. Dip in and discover some new favourite writers.' - Michael Robotham
'A perfect showcase for the brilliant new wave of Antipodean crime writing.' - Val McDermid
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2022
9 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
About the author
Craig Sisterson
4 books90 followersCraig Sisterson is a lapsed lawyer who grew up among Middle Earth scenery in New Zealand, solving mysteries alongside the Hardy Boys, Hercule Poirot, and Agaton Sax. He now lives in London and writes for magazines and newspapers in several countries, intercut with being an event chair, festival founder, and book awards judge.
In recent years he’s interviewed hundreds of crime writers and talked about the genre on national radio, top podcasts, and onstage at festivals on three continents. He’s been a judge of the McIlvanney Prize and Ned Kelly Awards, and is founder of the Ngaio Marsh Awards and co-founder of Rotorua Noir.
His first book, SOUTHERN CROSS CRIME, a reader’s guide to Australian & New Zealand crime fiction (Oldcastle Books, 2020) was a nominee for the Macavity Awards in the USA and shortlisted for the HRF Keating Award in the UK.
In recent years he’s interviewed hundreds of crime writers and talked about the genre on national radio, top podcasts, and onstage at festivals on three continents. He’s been a judge of the McIlvanney Prize and Ned Kelly Awards, and is founder of the Ngaio Marsh Awards and co-founder of Rotorua Noir.
His first book, SOUTHERN CROSS CRIME, a reader’s guide to Australian & New Zealand crime fiction (Oldcastle Books, 2020) was a nominee for the Macavity Awards in the USA and shortlisted for the HRF Keating Award in the UK.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 14, 2022
Dark Deeds Down Under is a collection of nineteen short stories by Australian and New Zealand crime writers. Some feature characters from series; some stand alone. All demonstrate the art of a small dose of crime fiction in the hands of such talented artists: not a dud amongst them!
Takin’ Out The Trash s a short story in Alan Carter’s Sergeant Nick Chester series: Nick attends a hostage situation with quite a twist.
In Aiofe Clifford’s Summer of the Seventeenth Poll, political smokejumper Callan Valient runs damage control for the party when a months-dead teen is found in a house belonging to the Premier, and makes a shocking discovery.
In David Whish Wilson’s The Cook, a speed cook is released from prison and, to his younger son’s disappointment, immediately hooks up with a notorious non-bikie crim to cook MDMA out on a trawler. But things don’t work out that way.
Skin Deep is a prequel in Dinuka McKenzie’s DS Kate Miles series: after a South Asian man is beaten to death, it begins to look like the vandalism at Kumar De Silva’s physiotherapy practice is a hate crime, but Constable Kate Grayling is unconvinced.
In Fiona Sussman’s Hide Something, Evan Walker isn’t sure what made him take the uncharacteristic step of offering a lift to a hitchhiker but, as they cross the Southern Alps, he learns a shocking fact that radically changes their destination.
Sinner Man is a short story in Garry Disher’s Paul Hirschhausen series. On top of his usual rounds, Hirsch has his hands full: a missing woman previously harassed by a stalker, a stolen caravan and a burnt-out car containing a body, all of which he manages to satisfactorily resolve. Each dose of Hirsch makes him more likeable and worthy of respect.
Narelle M. Harris’s Observations on a Tragedy is presented in three acts: theatre critic Tee Mahoney discovers the Lead actor’s body, clearly fallen from a great height. In her mind, two people stand out as having motive: the second lead; and the ex-girlfriend. Tee notices another detail she really should share with police. When cast, crew and family gather the next day, it all becomes clear.
In Helen Vivienne Fletcher’s He Who Laughs Last, Charles, in his wheelchair in a bar, has zeroed in on his eleventh unsuspecting victim. But this time, his unique murder method takes the wrong person.
Water Damage is a short story in Katherine Kovacic’s Alex Clayton series. Alex responds to her old friend Kel’s request, only to find his body. An envelope of photos sees her chasing a fifty-years-missing art haul, much to the annoyance of Detective Daikos. A brilliant last line.
The Rooming House is a short story in Kerry Greenwood’s Corinna Chapman series. When Corinna’s ex, James makes an unwelcome reappearance in her life, she kindly gives up a relaxing Wednesday afternoon to check out his latest proposed scheme. And it’s lucky for him that she devotes her full accounting expertise to it.
Rock-a-bye Baby is a short story in Dan Rabarts and Lee Murray’s near-future noir Path of Ra series. While Penny Yee is processing the crime scene of a murdered psychiatrist, her brother Matiu is learning that Mia, his girlfriend’s niece, has been taken from the crèche by Child Services. A little investigation yields that this is much less benign than it seems.
In The Falls by Lisa Fuller, PI Matt Downs is in small town Queensland to shed light on the drowning death of Andy Ivers. There’s talk he went somewhere he shouldn’t have. His father is too impatient to await Matt’s investigation – much to his detriment.
In Nikki Crutchley’s Save Me, an Auckland teacher moves to a beach house where she soon makes friends with a neighbour, whom she suspects is a victim of domestic violence. The husband’s death provides an opportunity to cement their friendship.
In Renée’s Certain Kinds Of Light, Alice’s public reading of her poem about her assault forms part of her recovery. But walking the same path home brings the same danger, with a twist: a detour through the cemetery has grave consequences for her attackers.
Nancys Undercover is a short story in RWR McDonald’s The Nancys series. Tippy Chan, her gay Uncle Pike and his boyfriend Devon feel the need to go undercover when they notice an increase in the number of deaths at her Nai Nai’s care facility. They get to delight in a bit of drag before the culprit is revealed.
The Lost Murray Whelan is the first chapter of an abandoned book in Shane Maloney’s Murray Whelan series. Federal Labour MP Murray Whelan drives to a remote SA location to collect his son, the supporting male lead in a backpacker slasher movie. This, just as there’s a mass breakout at the Woomera Detention Centre. Escapees might find survival difficult in the Australian desert…
In Stephen Ross’s Mr Pig, when Mrs Brown mysteriously fails to return from town, Mercy is left with Mr Brown and the newly acquired pig. Mr Pig seems to be her only friend, so when Mr Brown decides to slaughter him, Mercy objects.
The Company of Rats is a prequel in Sulari Gentill’s Rowland Sinclair series. A story that features a rat catcher, a murder, an army deserter, a missing boy, and a case of plague, and also demonstrates that even as a boy, Rowly had keen powers of observation, a love of dogs, and a genuinely charitable attitude to those less fortunate.
Top Dog is a short story n Vanda Symon’s Detective Sam Shepherd series. Sam is called to the Dunedin SPCA when a staff member goes missing. This one features a few cute dog and cat scenes, and a big eeuww factor on the final page.
There’s lots of variety in these stories: some are dark, some hilarious, many are clever or topical, a few are quite chilling, several feature revenge or resentment, a few are thought-provoking and most will entertain in one way or another. Brilliant down under crime fiction.
Takin’ Out The Trash s a short story in Alan Carter’s Sergeant Nick Chester series: Nick attends a hostage situation with quite a twist.
In Aiofe Clifford’s Summer of the Seventeenth Poll, political smokejumper Callan Valient runs damage control for the party when a months-dead teen is found in a house belonging to the Premier, and makes a shocking discovery.
In David Whish Wilson’s The Cook, a speed cook is released from prison and, to his younger son’s disappointment, immediately hooks up with a notorious non-bikie crim to cook MDMA out on a trawler. But things don’t work out that way.
Skin Deep is a prequel in Dinuka McKenzie’s DS Kate Miles series: after a South Asian man is beaten to death, it begins to look like the vandalism at Kumar De Silva’s physiotherapy practice is a hate crime, but Constable Kate Grayling is unconvinced.
In Fiona Sussman’s Hide Something, Evan Walker isn’t sure what made him take the uncharacteristic step of offering a lift to a hitchhiker but, as they cross the Southern Alps, he learns a shocking fact that radically changes their destination.
Sinner Man is a short story in Garry Disher’s Paul Hirschhausen series. On top of his usual rounds, Hirsch has his hands full: a missing woman previously harassed by a stalker, a stolen caravan and a burnt-out car containing a body, all of which he manages to satisfactorily resolve. Each dose of Hirsch makes him more likeable and worthy of respect.
Narelle M. Harris’s Observations on a Tragedy is presented in three acts: theatre critic Tee Mahoney discovers the Lead actor’s body, clearly fallen from a great height. In her mind, two people stand out as having motive: the second lead; and the ex-girlfriend. Tee notices another detail she really should share with police. When cast, crew and family gather the next day, it all becomes clear.
In Helen Vivienne Fletcher’s He Who Laughs Last, Charles, in his wheelchair in a bar, has zeroed in on his eleventh unsuspecting victim. But this time, his unique murder method takes the wrong person.
Water Damage is a short story in Katherine Kovacic’s Alex Clayton series. Alex responds to her old friend Kel’s request, only to find his body. An envelope of photos sees her chasing a fifty-years-missing art haul, much to the annoyance of Detective Daikos. A brilliant last line.
The Rooming House is a short story in Kerry Greenwood’s Corinna Chapman series. When Corinna’s ex, James makes an unwelcome reappearance in her life, she kindly gives up a relaxing Wednesday afternoon to check out his latest proposed scheme. And it’s lucky for him that she devotes her full accounting expertise to it.
Rock-a-bye Baby is a short story in Dan Rabarts and Lee Murray’s near-future noir Path of Ra series. While Penny Yee is processing the crime scene of a murdered psychiatrist, her brother Matiu is learning that Mia, his girlfriend’s niece, has been taken from the crèche by Child Services. A little investigation yields that this is much less benign than it seems.
In The Falls by Lisa Fuller, PI Matt Downs is in small town Queensland to shed light on the drowning death of Andy Ivers. There’s talk he went somewhere he shouldn’t have. His father is too impatient to await Matt’s investigation – much to his detriment.
In Nikki Crutchley’s Save Me, an Auckland teacher moves to a beach house where she soon makes friends with a neighbour, whom she suspects is a victim of domestic violence. The husband’s death provides an opportunity to cement their friendship.
In Renée’s Certain Kinds Of Light, Alice’s public reading of her poem about her assault forms part of her recovery. But walking the same path home brings the same danger, with a twist: a detour through the cemetery has grave consequences for her attackers.
Nancys Undercover is a short story in RWR McDonald’s The Nancys series. Tippy Chan, her gay Uncle Pike and his boyfriend Devon feel the need to go undercover when they notice an increase in the number of deaths at her Nai Nai’s care facility. They get to delight in a bit of drag before the culprit is revealed.
The Lost Murray Whelan is the first chapter of an abandoned book in Shane Maloney’s Murray Whelan series. Federal Labour MP Murray Whelan drives to a remote SA location to collect his son, the supporting male lead in a backpacker slasher movie. This, just as there’s a mass breakout at the Woomera Detention Centre. Escapees might find survival difficult in the Australian desert…
In Stephen Ross’s Mr Pig, when Mrs Brown mysteriously fails to return from town, Mercy is left with Mr Brown and the newly acquired pig. Mr Pig seems to be her only friend, so when Mr Brown decides to slaughter him, Mercy objects.
The Company of Rats is a prequel in Sulari Gentill’s Rowland Sinclair series. A story that features a rat catcher, a murder, an army deserter, a missing boy, and a case of plague, and also demonstrates that even as a boy, Rowly had keen powers of observation, a love of dogs, and a genuinely charitable attitude to those less fortunate.
Top Dog is a short story n Vanda Symon’s Detective Sam Shepherd series. Sam is called to the Dunedin SPCA when a staff member goes missing. This one features a few cute dog and cat scenes, and a big eeuww factor on the final page.
There’s lots of variety in these stories: some are dark, some hilarious, many are clever or topical, a few are quite chilling, several feature revenge or resentment, a few are thought-provoking and most will entertain in one way or another. Brilliant down under crime fiction.
September 11, 2022
Showcasing some of the best crime fiction writers in Australia & New Zealand, Dark Deeds Down Under, edited by Craig Sisterson and Lindy Cameron, is an excellent anthology of nineteen original short stories.
Offering a wonderful variety in style and setting, I enjoyed reconnecting with familiar characters, such as the delightful Nancy’s created by RWR McDonald’s, and the introduction to ones I’m yet to meet, like Dinuka McKenzie’s Detective Sergeant Kate Miles.
‘Sinner Man’ reminded me how much I love Garry Disher’s character of rural Victorian cop Constable Paul Hirschhausen. I really hope there will be another Hirsch novel released this Christmas.
New Zealander Helen Vivienne Fletcher grabbed my attention with her surprising opening paragraph to ‘He Who Laughs Last’, a stand alone short story with a murderer who utilises an unlikely murder method.
There’s a hint of supernatural horror in ‘Rock-a-bye Baby’ by Dan Rabarts & Lee Murray, which includes a gruesome murder, a kidnapped infant and a thrilling chase across Auckland.
I giggled at Kerry Greenwood’s jar at the former federal Australian LNP government in her short story featuring Earthly Delight’s baker Corinna Chapman and her feckless ex-husband, ‘The Rooming House’.
A haunting tale set in the heat of rural Queensland, ‘The Falls’, by award-winning writer and Wuilli Wuilli woman Lisa Fuller, gave me the chills.
Joined by authors Alan Carter, Nikki Crutchley, Aoife Clifford, Sulari Gentil, Narrelle M Harris, Katherine Kovacic, Shane Maloney, Renee, Stephen Ross, Fiona Sussman, Vanda Symon, and David Whish-Wilson, there’s honestly not a single disappointing tale among this collection of mysteries and thrillers.
A must have anthology for antipodean crime readers, Dark Deeds Down Under is also the perfect introduction to the breadth of Australian and New Zealand talent for international readers. I highly recommend this outstanding collection.
Offering a wonderful variety in style and setting, I enjoyed reconnecting with familiar characters, such as the delightful Nancy’s created by RWR McDonald’s, and the introduction to ones I’m yet to meet, like Dinuka McKenzie’s Detective Sergeant Kate Miles.
‘Sinner Man’ reminded me how much I love Garry Disher’s character of rural Victorian cop Constable Paul Hirschhausen. I really hope there will be another Hirsch novel released this Christmas.
New Zealander Helen Vivienne Fletcher grabbed my attention with her surprising opening paragraph to ‘He Who Laughs Last’, a stand alone short story with a murderer who utilises an unlikely murder method.
There’s a hint of supernatural horror in ‘Rock-a-bye Baby’ by Dan Rabarts & Lee Murray, which includes a gruesome murder, a kidnapped infant and a thrilling chase across Auckland.
I giggled at Kerry Greenwood’s jar at the former federal Australian LNP government in her short story featuring Earthly Delight’s baker Corinna Chapman and her feckless ex-husband, ‘The Rooming House’.
A haunting tale set in the heat of rural Queensland, ‘The Falls’, by award-winning writer and Wuilli Wuilli woman Lisa Fuller, gave me the chills.
Joined by authors Alan Carter, Nikki Crutchley, Aoife Clifford, Sulari Gentil, Narrelle M Harris, Katherine Kovacic, Shane Maloney, Renee, Stephen Ross, Fiona Sussman, Vanda Symon, and David Whish-Wilson, there’s honestly not a single disappointing tale among this collection of mysteries and thrillers.
A must have anthology for antipodean crime readers, Dark Deeds Down Under is also the perfect introduction to the breadth of Australian and New Zealand talent for international readers. I highly recommend this outstanding collection.
December 10, 2023
It's criminally good reading!
Nineteen short stories from talented Australian and New Zealander writers. I’ve previously read work by roughly half of these authors and was delighted to find some new authors to add to my reading list. A shout out, too, to the artists: Seantelle Walsh, for the drawing of the platypus which indicates Australian authors, and Māhina Rose Holland Bennett, for the drawing of a kiwi which indicates a New Zealand author. While most authors have either a platypus or a kiwi, one author has both.
Where to start? I enjoyed each of the stories, but I do have favourites. Kerry Greenwood’s story ‘The Rooming House’ had me laughing with her particular band of Happy-Clappies. I mean, surely there’s a queue to join the Intercostals? Just don’t laugh too hard: it might be painful. ‘Hiding Something’ by Fiona Sussman held my attention from beginning to end, and still has me thinking. I thoroughly enjoyed Garry Disher’s ‘Sinner Man’: I am a big fan of Hirsch (Constable Paul Hirschhausen).
While some of the authors: Kerry Greenwood, Garry Disher, Vanda Symon, Sulari Gentill, R.W.R. McDonald, Lee Murray and Dan Rabarts, Katherine Kovacic, Dinuka McKenzie and Shane Maloney included existing characters from their novels, others did not. While I enjoyed meeting old friends such as Rowly Sinclair, Hirsch, and Alex Clayton, it was nice to meet some new people as well. Some of them that is, I have my doubts about a few.
Other stories that I particularly enjoyed were ‘The Cook by David Whish-Wilson, ‘Takin’ out the Trash’ by Alan Carter, and ‘Nancys Undercover’ by R.W.R. McDonald. And now I have to add ‘Mr Pig’ by Stephen Ross.
There really is something for every crime aficionado in this anthology. Narrelle M Harris has a clever story ‘Observations on a Tragedy’ which unfolds over three acts. And, digging deeper, Renée’s ‘Certain Kinds of Light’ really struck a chord.
Highly recommended.
Note: My thanks to Clan Destine Press for providing me with a copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Nineteen short stories from talented Australian and New Zealander writers. I’ve previously read work by roughly half of these authors and was delighted to find some new authors to add to my reading list. A shout out, too, to the artists: Seantelle Walsh, for the drawing of the platypus which indicates Australian authors, and Māhina Rose Holland Bennett, for the drawing of a kiwi which indicates a New Zealand author. While most authors have either a platypus or a kiwi, one author has both.
Where to start? I enjoyed each of the stories, but I do have favourites. Kerry Greenwood’s story ‘The Rooming House’ had me laughing with her particular band of Happy-Clappies. I mean, surely there’s a queue to join the Intercostals? Just don’t laugh too hard: it might be painful. ‘Hiding Something’ by Fiona Sussman held my attention from beginning to end, and still has me thinking. I thoroughly enjoyed Garry Disher’s ‘Sinner Man’: I am a big fan of Hirsch (Constable Paul Hirschhausen).
While some of the authors: Kerry Greenwood, Garry Disher, Vanda Symon, Sulari Gentill, R.W.R. McDonald, Lee Murray and Dan Rabarts, Katherine Kovacic, Dinuka McKenzie and Shane Maloney included existing characters from their novels, others did not. While I enjoyed meeting old friends such as Rowly Sinclair, Hirsch, and Alex Clayton, it was nice to meet some new people as well. Some of them that is, I have my doubts about a few.
Other stories that I particularly enjoyed were ‘The Cook by David Whish-Wilson, ‘Takin’ out the Trash’ by Alan Carter, and ‘Nancys Undercover’ by R.W.R. McDonald. And now I have to add ‘Mr Pig’ by Stephen Ross.
There really is something for every crime aficionado in this anthology. Narrelle M Harris has a clever story ‘Observations on a Tragedy’ which unfolds over three acts. And, digging deeper, Renée’s ‘Certain Kinds of Light’ really struck a chord.
Highly recommended.
Note: My thanks to Clan Destine Press for providing me with a copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
November 29, 2022
4.3 stars
Dark Deeds Down Under is an anthology of fictional titles of mystery, murder and mayhem. Twenty-one short stories from some of the top names in Australian and New Zealand crime fiction.
Many of the authors I had read before and I enjoyed their familiar writing style and the use of characters from well known series.
I love that anthologies have something for everyone and Dark Deeds Down Under is no exception, there is mystery, suspense, edge of your seat drama, humour and unexpected twists. Twenty-one short stories that can be enjoyed at your leisure - perfect holiday reading.
I was amazed how, even in these short stories, some authors managed remarkable characterisation. I had a few favourites and among them were Fiona Sussman's Hiding Something; where a grieving dad picks up a hitchhiker, a chance meeting that will change both their lives and Mr Pig by Stephen Ross; narrated by a friendless thirteen-year-old girl left with her curmudgeon father after her mother goes missing. The twists in these two stories really appealed to my sense of humour.
Dark Deeds Down Under is a superb showcase of Australian & New Zealand crime fiction with something for every taste.
*I received a copy from the publisher
Dark Deeds Down Under is an anthology of fictional titles of mystery, murder and mayhem. Twenty-one short stories from some of the top names in Australian and New Zealand crime fiction.
"a stunning smorgasbord of stories, styles and settings" - Craig Sisterson editor
Many of the authors I had read before and I enjoyed their familiar writing style and the use of characters from well known series.
I love that anthologies have something for everyone and Dark Deeds Down Under is no exception, there is mystery, suspense, edge of your seat drama, humour and unexpected twists. Twenty-one short stories that can be enjoyed at your leisure - perfect holiday reading.
I was amazed how, even in these short stories, some authors managed remarkable characterisation. I had a few favourites and among them were Fiona Sussman's Hiding Something; where a grieving dad picks up a hitchhiker, a chance meeting that will change both their lives and Mr Pig by Stephen Ross; narrated by a friendless thirteen-year-old girl left with her curmudgeon father after her mother goes missing. The twists in these two stories really appealed to my sense of humour.
Dark Deeds Down Under is a superb showcase of Australian & New Zealand crime fiction with something for every taste.
*I received a copy from the publisher
May 30, 2023
The stories were variable as you'd expect with such a collection, but a great taster of some old and new talent. I particularly enjoyed The Cook by David Whish Wilson and Fiona Sussman's Hiding Something. Both really amped up the tension.
February 12, 2023
I do love a good short story and, with Dark Deeds Down Under, I get not just one, but 19 absolute belters. I loved the variety of stories and authors that Craig Sisterson has brought together for this anthology, taking us through so many different styles of crime fiction, from the serious, to the poignant, to the just plain fun. There is a little something for everyone here, turning the spotlight on some of the fabulous writers that Australia and New Zealand has to offer.
I love the way in which each of the author has managed to pull us right into the story, setting the scene and delivering the power punches in perfect style and leaving a real satisfaction at the end of every tale. From a murder in a theatre setting, which reaches it's conclusion over a series of three parts, to nasty goings on at an animal shelter, or dastardly deeds in a nursing home, there really is a little bit of everything here. I loved the story Nancys Undercover by RWR McDonald and am excited to know there is also a running series of books featuring these characters as they were fabulous. For fans of Vanda Symon's iconica character, Sam Shephard, there is a bonus short story, Top Dog, that may turn the stomach and have you checking the contents of your pet's food bowl. It certainly made me smile (and grimace). The Falls by Lisa Fuller, combines a story of loss and anger with a more spiritual edge. Skin Deep, by Dinuka McKenzie, examines racial tensions and prejudice in New South Wales, and He Who Laughs Last by Helen Vivienne Fletcher brings readers a tale of gleeful vengeance that goes quite spectacularly wrong. Apparently you really can die of laughter ...
Whatever your tastes, I think you will find something here to love. I know that I've found a group of authors whose wider works I'm going to be checking out in the not too distant future. A perfect collection for those brief moments in time - commutes, lunch breaks - where you just need a tempting distraction. Definitely recommended.
I love the way in which each of the author has managed to pull us right into the story, setting the scene and delivering the power punches in perfect style and leaving a real satisfaction at the end of every tale. From a murder in a theatre setting, which reaches it's conclusion over a series of three parts, to nasty goings on at an animal shelter, or dastardly deeds in a nursing home, there really is a little bit of everything here. I loved the story Nancys Undercover by RWR McDonald and am excited to know there is also a running series of books featuring these characters as they were fabulous. For fans of Vanda Symon's iconica character, Sam Shephard, there is a bonus short story, Top Dog, that may turn the stomach and have you checking the contents of your pet's food bowl. It certainly made me smile (and grimace). The Falls by Lisa Fuller, combines a story of loss and anger with a more spiritual edge. Skin Deep, by Dinuka McKenzie, examines racial tensions and prejudice in New South Wales, and He Who Laughs Last by Helen Vivienne Fletcher brings readers a tale of gleeful vengeance that goes quite spectacularly wrong. Apparently you really can die of laughter ...
Whatever your tastes, I think you will find something here to love. I know that I've found a group of authors whose wider works I'm going to be checking out in the not too distant future. A perfect collection for those brief moments in time - commutes, lunch breaks - where you just need a tempting distraction. Definitely recommended.
April 4, 2024
Truly enjoyed reading all these short stories from such great Australian and New Zealand authors! One short story featured both of my home towns! Also found some new authors and looking forward to reading their books.
January 21, 2023
Thanks to Craig Sisterson for putting this collection of short stories together. I've enjoyed the slow drip feed, a story every few days. Of course, I have favourites, especially Alan Carter's 'Takin Out the Trash', Dinuka Mckenzie's 'Skin Deep', Katherine Kovacic's 'Water Damage and Stephen Ross's 'Mister Pig' but I have spent several pleasant summer afternoon hours reading them all.
I'm pleased to hear a second collection is in the making.
I'm pleased to hear a second collection is in the making.
March 12, 2023
I am wary of anthologies… Too often they’ll have the works of one or two great headline authors left carrying numerous other stories that feel like filler. But in Dark Deeds Down Under readers are spoiled for choice when it comes to bestselling authors, variety in characters, settings and storylines. The breadth and depth of Craig Sisterson’s knowledge of the Aussie and Kiwi crime fiction scene has clearly translated into editorial impact.
Personally, I found it such a treat to reconnect with Alan Carter, Kerry Greenwood, Shane Maloney, Katherine Kovacic and Garry Disher’s wonderfully memorable and engaging crime-series leads — dark dry hostage humour from Geordie-Kiwi Sergeant Corinna Chapman helping out an ex, world-weary politician Murray Whelan visiting his grown-up thespian son, art dealer sleuth Alex Clayton and her loyal wolfhound digging into history, and of course Constable Hirsch in outback Tiverton. Continue reading: https://www.bookloverbookreviews.com/...
Personally, I found it such a treat to reconnect with Alan Carter, Kerry Greenwood, Shane Maloney, Katherine Kovacic and Garry Disher’s wonderfully memorable and engaging crime-series leads — dark dry hostage humour from Geordie-Kiwi Sergeant Corinna Chapman helping out an ex, world-weary politician Murray Whelan visiting his grown-up thespian son, art dealer sleuth Alex Clayton and her loyal wolfhound digging into history, and of course Constable Hirsch in outback Tiverton. Continue reading: https://www.bookloverbookreviews.com/...
December 13, 2022
Posted on blog https://booksafewkids.wordpress.com/2...
I'm not usually an anthology fan, the longer the book, the better, but this collection changed my mind.
Not only does Dark Deeds Down Under feature 19 stories of varying mystery, suspense and thriller, all of the stories are written by Australian and New Zealand writers. Which I've mentioned many times before, is a big love to me.
Normally my problem with short stories is the lack of time for character and plot building, but the authors amazed me with how well remarkably well they did, with some even throwing in twists that I did not expect.
Every author did a great job of showcasing why they're popular and having me add them to my [seemingly] ever-growing to-read list, while Craig's beautiful editing enabled each story to seamlessly flow from one story to the next.
I highly recommend this anthology to all crime lovers as well as lovers of Australian and New Zealand writers.
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I'm not usually an anthology fan, the longer the book, the better, but this collection changed my mind.
Not only does Dark Deeds Down Under feature 19 stories of varying mystery, suspense and thriller, all of the stories are written by Australian and New Zealand writers. Which I've mentioned many times before, is a big love to me.
Normally my problem with short stories is the lack of time for character and plot building, but the authors amazed me with how well remarkably well they did, with some even throwing in twists that I did not expect.
Every author did a great job of showcasing why they're popular and having me add them to my [seemingly] ever-growing to-read list, while Craig's beautiful editing enabled each story to seamlessly flow from one story to the next.
I highly recommend this anthology to all crime lovers as well as lovers of Australian and New Zealand writers.
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January 30, 2023
Nearly 3.5 stars
I"ve only so far read the Christina Chapman (Kerry Greenwood - Phryne Fisher) story.
/But it was worth most of the cost. And the hassle, to find an ebook version, or any fricking version. Sometimes the fuss between publishers across continents is just so fricking annoying.
Now I'm moving on, though finding back issues of Aussie authors isn't all that easy in looking at the options at Los Angeles PubLib. Will persist.
Starting the next story, I already want to know the back-story, but that's not avail in ebook at my big PubLib, and shaky at even BigRiver. Studip publishers
I"ve only so far read the Christina Chapman (Kerry Greenwood - Phryne Fisher) story.
/But it was worth most of the cost. And the hassle, to find an ebook version, or any fricking version. Sometimes the fuss between publishers across continents is just so fricking annoying.
Now I'm moving on, though finding back issues of Aussie authors isn't all that easy in looking at the options at Los Angeles PubLib. Will persist.
Starting the next story, I already want to know the back-story, but that's not avail in ebook at my big PubLib, and shaky at even BigRiver. Studip publishers
February 13, 2024
It must be hard to create engaging characters and plots in short stories. That is possibly why I found stories involving familiar character more appealing in this collection. (Hirsch in Disher's "Sinner Man" and RWR McDonald's "Nancys undercover") I quickly felt involved. The remainder offered varying surprises and levels of tension.
Dark Deeds Down Under, a groundbreaking anthology, brings together internationally-renowned Aussie and Kiwi crime writers and their beloved characters. This stunning anthology includes 19 short stories from some of the brightest storytelling talents from Australia and New Zealand: including international bestsellers and award winners. Through the prism of page-turning crime, mystery and thriller stories you will roam from the dusty Outback to South Island glaciers, from ocean-carved coastlines and craggy mountains to sultry rainforests and Middle Earth valleys, and via sleepy villages to the underbellies of our cosmopolitan cities. In these all-new stories you’ll spend time with favourite series cops, sleuths and accidental heroes, and meet some new and edgy standalone characters. This vibrant showcase includes: Kerry Greenwood’s Corinna Chapman, Garry Disher’s ‘Hirsch’, Vanda Symon’s Sam Shephard, Sulari Gentill’s Rowly Sinclair, RWR McDonald’s ‘Nancys’, Lee Murray & Dan Rabarts’ Penny Yee & Matiu, Katherine Kovacic’s Alex Clayton, Dinuka McKenzie’s Kate Miles, and a rare appearance from Shane Maloney’s Murray Whelan. The dark deeds herein are perpetrated by a positively criminal line-up: Alan Carter ~ Nikki Crutchley ~ Aoife Clifford ~ Garry Disher ~ Helen Vivienne Fletcher ~ Lisa Fuller ~ Sulari Gentil ~ Kerry Greenwood ~ Narrelle M Harris ~ Katherine Kovacic ~ Shane Maloney ~ RWR McDonald ~ Dinuka McKenzie ~ Dan Rabarts & Lee Murray ~ Renee ~ Stephen Ross ~ Fiona Sussman ~ Vanda Symon ~ David Whish-Wilson
Dark Deeds Down Under, a groundbreaking anthology, brings together internationally-renowned Aussie and Kiwi crime writers and their beloved characters. This stunning anthology includes 19 short stories from some of the brightest storytelling talents from Australia and New Zealand: including international bestsellers and award winners. Through the prism of page-turning crime, mystery and thriller stories you will roam from the dusty Outback to South Island glaciers, from ocean-carved coastlines and craggy mountains to sultry rainforests and Middle Earth valleys, and via sleepy villages to the underbellies of our cosmopolitan cities. In these all-new stories you’ll spend time with favourite series cops, sleuths and accidental heroes, and meet some new and edgy standalone characters. This vibrant showcase includes: Kerry Greenwood’s Corinna Chapman, Garry Disher’s ‘Hirsch’, Vanda Symon’s Sam Shephard, Sulari Gentill’s Rowly Sinclair, RWR McDonald’s ‘Nancys’, Lee Murray & Dan Rabarts’ Penny Yee & Matiu, Katherine Kovacic’s Alex Clayton, Dinuka McKenzie’s Kate Miles, and a rare appearance from Shane Maloney’s Murray Whelan. The dark deeds herein are perpetrated by a positively criminal line-up: Alan Carter ~ Nikki Crutchley ~ Aoife Clifford ~ Garry Disher ~ Helen Vivienne Fletcher ~ Lisa Fuller ~ Sulari Gentil ~ Kerry Greenwood ~ Narrelle M Harris ~ Katherine Kovacic ~ Shane Maloney ~ RWR McDonald ~ Dinuka McKenzie ~ Dan Rabarts & Lee Murray ~ Renee ~ Stephen Ross ~ Fiona Sussman ~ Vanda Symon ~ David Whish-Wilson
Read
August 10, 2022Although crime fiction is certainly my passion (with a cross over into closely aligned genre of thrillers and suspense) I am still discovering Australian authors and quite ignorant when it comes to those across the ditch, so Sisterson's latest anthology, Dark Deeds Down Under helped me grow that list.
I leapt at the chance to get a review copy of Dark Deeds Down Under as it featured a number of authors I adore, including: Aioffe Clifford, Sulari Gentill, Dinuka McKenzie, Katherine Kovacic and RWR McDonald. As well as others with whom I am familiar such as Kerry Greenwood and Garry Disher.
I loved the humour in some of these stories (the droll gumshoe wit via PI/fixit man Callan Valient in Clifford’s Summer of the Seventeen Poll and the self-effacing and quirky narration by theatre critic (and writer) Tee in Narrelle M Harris’s Observation on a Tragedy.
And I’m singling out Hiding Something by Kiwi author Fiona Sussman, which was twisty and ended with a bang.
A huge thanks to Craig Sisterson and Lindy Cameron for this collection. I love that it showcases familiar and new-to-me authors and that it reflects our often-dry or self-deprecating sense of humour as well as our vast and varied landscapes.
I leapt at the chance to get a review copy of Dark Deeds Down Under as it featured a number of authors I adore, including: Aioffe Clifford, Sulari Gentill, Dinuka McKenzie, Katherine Kovacic and RWR McDonald. As well as others with whom I am familiar such as Kerry Greenwood and Garry Disher.
I loved the humour in some of these stories (the droll gumshoe wit via PI/fixit man Callan Valient in Clifford’s Summer of the Seventeen Poll and the self-effacing and quirky narration by theatre critic (and writer) Tee in Narrelle M Harris’s Observation on a Tragedy.
And I’m singling out Hiding Something by Kiwi author Fiona Sussman, which was twisty and ended with a bang.
A huge thanks to Craig Sisterson and Lindy Cameron for this collection. I love that it showcases familiar and new-to-me authors and that it reflects our often-dry or self-deprecating sense of humour as well as our vast and varied landscapes.
March 7, 2024
Wow! I don't read a lot of short stories these days, I tend to find them unsatisfying - but this collection is near-perfect. Each story is complete and doesn't leave me feeling like there should be more (other than I really enjoyed the story and would like to read more by that author, of course). There are some personal favourite authors in this collection, and plenty I've never read before, and each and every one of them was good. The range of stories is wide - this book might have a theme, and limited to two countries, but each story is unique and not a repeat of the others in some way. Can't wait for volume 2! And of course, now I have some new authors to watch out for when I'm buying for my library - what a tough life! ;-)
52 Book Reading Challenge prompts:
#5 - Magical Realism (in 1 story only)
#7 - At Least 4 Different POV
#24 - A Cover Without People on it
#26 - Hybrid Genre
#30 - Picked without reading the blurb
#46 - Featuring Indigenous Culture
#52bookchallenge2024
https://www.the52book.club/2024-readi...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/the52...
52 Book Reading Challenge prompts:
#5 - Magical Realism (in 1 story only)
#7 - At Least 4 Different POV
#24 - A Cover Without People on it
#26 - Hybrid Genre
#30 - Picked without reading the blurb
#46 - Featuring Indigenous Culture
#52bookchallenge2024
https://www.the52book.club/2024-readi...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/the52...
March 10, 2024
I love short stories but short story collections are always difficult to to review. I try not to say which I've enjoyed most. Ranking them is always too hard. But here is a collection you can pop on your Kindle for the occasional dabble. They are all good representatives of the genre, some of them grittier than others.
So I've decided to list below the authors that I have 'met' before and to list the books that I have read.
The collection has also pointed out to me some authors I should really look for, particularly those "across the ditch". In reality I've only met the work of 9 of the 19 before, so Craig has done me a service.
But, I've got to say it... the one that will stick with me for a while is Mr Pig by NZ author Stephen Ross.
So I've decided to list below the authors that I have 'met' before and to list the books that I have read.
The collection has also pointed out to me some authors I should really look for, particularly those "across the ditch". In reality I've only met the work of 9 of the 19 before, so Craig has done me a service.
But, I've got to say it... the one that will stick with me for a while is Mr Pig by NZ author Stephen Ross.
March 10, 2023
I usually enjoy the crime genre but I found this book a very fractured read.
Some of the short stories were just tedious to read; interesting as many of the authors have written books I have enjoyed.
Some of the short stories were just tedious to read; interesting as many of the authors have written books I have enjoyed.
November 13, 2023
Too many stories where knowing the authors and their characters would be helpful. A few were out of reach without some background. In spite of that, a few are real standouts and very worthwhile. Which ones don't matter since it's up to your taste and whether you know the authors and characters.
February 5, 2023
Some great stuff in here
July 10, 2023
2.5* - some good, some bad and some just tedious.
September 3, 2024
3 1/2 to 4 stars. Overall, a very good collection that introduced me to new authors from both sides of the ditch that I'm keen to try out in longer formats.
October 28, 2025
A fabulous introduction to Antipodean writing. Give it a crack, you won’t regret it.
September 5, 2023
3.5 ☆
Finished reading ... Dark Deeds Down Under: a crime and thriller anthology / Craig Sisterson & Lindy Cameron, eds. … 14 August 2023
ISBN: 9780645316780 … 269 pp. + authors and artists mini biographies.
This collection of above average but not outstanding short stories consists of one short story told in three parts scattered throughout the book, one short story told by a pair of co-authors, and 17 stories told by single authors.
Unlike some anthologies, there is nothing here that is unreadable in spite of the expected unevenness in quality. One was a bit silly, but I won't 'name names' - some might enjoy silliness more than me and others might disagree with my judgement. I know nothing about Māori culture so a couple of stories that included Māori belief in spirits are beyond my appreciation and ability to judge.
I've read two authors in the collection, Dinuka McKenzie whose second Kate Miles offering I'm happily getting stuck into, and Sulari Gentill's The Woman in the Library which I only gave two stars. The short story here is early Rowland Sinclair. I was wanting to read from this series but from the short story I now know that I won't enjoy the attitudes and mannerisms from the era in which it is set.
Only one author was on my 'to read' list, Garry Disher. His short story keeps him his spot on my list.
Of all the remaining authors, largely unknown to me, none of their stories, while enjoyable, was so outstanding that I want to grab them from the library shelves immediately.
This collection is a good choice if you want some easy-to-read crime/thriller fiction to take on holidays or to pick up and put down when your head isn't in the right space for a full length novel.
Borrowed from my local library.
Purchased at my request.
Finished reading ... Dark Deeds Down Under: a crime and thriller anthology / Craig Sisterson & Lindy Cameron, eds. … 14 August 2023
ISBN: 9780645316780 … 269 pp. + authors and artists mini biographies.
This collection of above average but not outstanding short stories consists of one short story told in three parts scattered throughout the book, one short story told by a pair of co-authors, and 17 stories told by single authors.
Unlike some anthologies, there is nothing here that is unreadable in spite of the expected unevenness in quality. One was a bit silly, but I won't 'name names' - some might enjoy silliness more than me and others might disagree with my judgement. I know nothing about Māori culture so a couple of stories that included Māori belief in spirits are beyond my appreciation and ability to judge.
I've read two authors in the collection, Dinuka McKenzie whose second Kate Miles offering I'm happily getting stuck into, and Sulari Gentill's The Woman in the Library which I only gave two stars. The short story here is early Rowland Sinclair. I was wanting to read from this series but from the short story I now know that I won't enjoy the attitudes and mannerisms from the era in which it is set.
Only one author was on my 'to read' list, Garry Disher. His short story keeps him his spot on my list.
Of all the remaining authors, largely unknown to me, none of their stories, while enjoyable, was so outstanding that I want to grab them from the library shelves immediately.
This collection is a good choice if you want some easy-to-read crime/thriller fiction to take on holidays or to pick up and put down when your head isn't in the right space for a full length novel.
Borrowed from my local library.
Purchased at my request.
November 6, 2023
I must say firstly, that the amazing author RWR McDonald gifted me this anthology at a recent writer's festival I attended to here him, and other authors speak.
I must say, as I enter my crime reading era; and so far they have all been local Australian authors, this anthology has introduced me to established and new/up-and-coming authors from both Australia and New Zealand.
I now have authors to read after I finish a plethora of other books because these stories, whether stand-alone or returning characters from award-winning authors, had me hooked - all of them. I didn't realise short crime stories could be as engaging, if not more engaging, than full books! And I don't normally love a short story.
Now - the reason I was so keen for this is for Nancys Undercover - a stand-alone short story in the world of The Nancys (RWR McDonald's awesome novels - check my reviews) and I wasn't disappointed. I loved spending more time with Tippy and Co. and, even though it is set after the forthcoming 3rd Nancy novel, nothing was spoiled as to what would occur. It was short, funny and lovely - as always.
I will be reading more from the other authors; such talent in our country and our friends just across the road in NZ
I must say, as I enter my crime reading era; and so far they have all been local Australian authors, this anthology has introduced me to established and new/up-and-coming authors from both Australia and New Zealand.
I now have authors to read after I finish a plethora of other books because these stories, whether stand-alone or returning characters from award-winning authors, had me hooked - all of them. I didn't realise short crime stories could be as engaging, if not more engaging, than full books! And I don't normally love a short story.
Now - the reason I was so keen for this is for Nancys Undercover - a stand-alone short story in the world of The Nancys (RWR McDonald's awesome novels - check my reviews) and I wasn't disappointed. I loved spending more time with Tippy and Co. and, even though it is set after the forthcoming 3rd Nancy novel, nothing was spoiled as to what would occur. It was short, funny and lovely - as always.
I will be reading more from the other authors; such talent in our country and our friends just across the road in NZ
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews