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Judgement Day
Family law judge Kaye Bailey is found murdered in her chambers. Is this the work of a disgruntled complainant? Or an inside job by a jealous colleague? Or is there something even more insidious at the heart of this brutal act?
Detective Jillian Basset is just back from maternity leave, struggling with new motherhood as she tackles the biggest case of her career. As her work and home lives get messier and messier, though, something's going to give.
Exploring the murky underworld of the justice system and setting a cracking pace, Judgement Day is a gripping thriller from a fresh and compelling new Australian voice.
Praise for Judgement Day
'I absolutely loved Judgement Day. It kept me guessing right the way through, but pulled it all together in the end in a way that was immensely satisfying and solid. It's really refreshing to read such a quality procedural, and it's impressive work for a debut. I also loved the relationship between Jillian and McClintock, it's a different dynamic from the usual, and made for another great payoff in the end.' Shelley Burr, author of WAKE
'Judgement Day is a thrilling ride. I loved delving into the world of the courts - what a place to set a crime novel - the intrigue, the snobbery and the privilege. This book kept me up all night and I can't stop thinking about it.' Margaret Hickey, author of Stone Town
'The best crime novels make readers confront uncomfortable truths. Judgement Day delivers on that front - and more. Great characters. Clever plot. The cops and the courts collide in this compelling debut thriller from Mali Waugh.' Tim Ayliffe, author of the John Bailey series
'The verdict is this is damn fine crime fiction. Mali Waugh lifts the lid on the legal profession's biggest secret: what happens behind the courtroom is even more compelling than what happens in it. Beyond a reasonable doubt this is one of the best Australian legal thrillers in years.' Aoife Clifford, author of When We Fall
Detective Jillian Basset is just back from maternity leave, struggling with new motherhood as she tackles the biggest case of her career. As her work and home lives get messier and messier, though, something's going to give.
Exploring the murky underworld of the justice system and setting a cracking pace, Judgement Day is a gripping thriller from a fresh and compelling new Australian voice.
Praise for Judgement Day
'I absolutely loved Judgement Day. It kept me guessing right the way through, but pulled it all together in the end in a way that was immensely satisfying and solid. It's really refreshing to read such a quality procedural, and it's impressive work for a debut. I also loved the relationship between Jillian and McClintock, it's a different dynamic from the usual, and made for another great payoff in the end.' Shelley Burr, author of WAKE
'Judgement Day is a thrilling ride. I loved delving into the world of the courts - what a place to set a crime novel - the intrigue, the snobbery and the privilege. This book kept me up all night and I can't stop thinking about it.' Margaret Hickey, author of Stone Town
'The best crime novels make readers confront uncomfortable truths. Judgement Day delivers on that front - and more. Great characters. Clever plot. The cops and the courts collide in this compelling debut thriller from Mali Waugh.' Tim Ayliffe, author of the John Bailey series
'The verdict is this is damn fine crime fiction. Mali Waugh lifts the lid on the legal profession's biggest secret: what happens behind the courtroom is even more compelling than what happens in it. Beyond a reasonable doubt this is one of the best Australian legal thrillers in years.' Aoife Clifford, author of When We Fall
336 pages, Paperback
Published February 28, 2023
11 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 25, 2025
Family law judge Kaye Bailey was darting between the party which was on to celebrate the Chief Judge, Saul Meyers', retirement, and her office as she was finishing up a Judgement. It was late; the fact that her name had been put out there as the replacement to Meyers was briefly exciting, but her time was limited. As it was, she didn't finish the Judgement until after midnight. The following morning when Kaye's assistant entered the chambers, she was horrified to find Kaye's body. She'd been brutally murdered.
Detective Jillian Basset was at the end of maternity leave, meant to be returning the following Monday when her boss called, asking for her to run the case. Of course she dropped everything to get back to work, leaving eight month old Ollie with her husband, Aaron. The case was complex and difficult, with Jillian and her partner, Detective McClintock, exhausted every night, often arriving home after midnight. But would they discover who killed Judge Bailey?
Judgement Day is the debut novel by Aussie author Mali Waugh and I enjoyed it very much. I found Jillian to be rather self-centred and selfish, but that was how she was meant to be I think; the author wrote her well. A fast paced and intense thriller, with an excellent plot, it was compelling. I'll definitely look for more by this author. Recommended.
Detective Jillian Basset was at the end of maternity leave, meant to be returning the following Monday when her boss called, asking for her to run the case. Of course she dropped everything to get back to work, leaving eight month old Ollie with her husband, Aaron. The case was complex and difficult, with Jillian and her partner, Detective McClintock, exhausted every night, often arriving home after midnight. But would they discover who killed Judge Bailey?
Judgement Day is the debut novel by Aussie author Mali Waugh and I enjoyed it very much. I found Jillian to be rather self-centred and selfish, but that was how she was meant to be I think; the author wrote her well. A fast paced and intense thriller, with an excellent plot, it was compelling. I'll definitely look for more by this author. Recommended.
March 19, 2023
What a debut! Part legal thriller, part police procedural, Judgement Day was a book that I couldn't put down.
Family Court Judge Kaye Bailey is murdered in her chambers just hours after being promoted. Who would want her dead and why? Was it a revenge killing for somebody she put away? Or a jealous co-worker? Or did Kaye know too much. Detective Jillian Bassett has the unenviable job of finding out. Returning to work from maternity leave, this case will take all she has to crack.
Lots of suspects, Kaye had made some enemies in her time. And Jillian is going through a tough time herself. Everything is not as it seems, and people will do anything to keep their secrets safe. I really enjoyed this book and hope that we will revisit some of these characters again.
Thanks to MacMillan Australia for my copy of this book to read. Judgement Day is out now.
Family Court Judge Kaye Bailey is murdered in her chambers just hours after being promoted. Who would want her dead and why? Was it a revenge killing for somebody she put away? Or a jealous co-worker? Or did Kaye know too much. Detective Jillian Bassett has the unenviable job of finding out. Returning to work from maternity leave, this case will take all she has to crack.
Lots of suspects, Kaye had made some enemies in her time. And Jillian is going through a tough time herself. Everything is not as it seems, and people will do anything to keep their secrets safe. I really enjoyed this book and hope that we will revisit some of these characters again.
Thanks to MacMillan Australia for my copy of this book to read. Judgement Day is out now.
August 9, 2023
The debut murder mystery novel by Mali Waugh, Judgement Day starts out appearing as though it’s a legal thriller but it’s not. Instead this is a police procedural combined with the heartbreak of dealing with postnatal depression. While the murder case is the primary focus of the book, the more important storyline revolves around the main character’s mental health.
Family law court judge Kaye Bailey is murdered in her chambers one night after a party in which she was named to be the next Chief Judge. The night also coincided with the impending release of a much anticipated (and high profile) judgement. Although Bailey was a very good judge, she also stepped on the toes of quite a few people, thus widening the list of people who may have wanted to kill her.
Who could the murderer be? Could it be someone who hates the entire family law system? Or someone who hates Bailey herself after appearing before her? Or maybe it’s a jealous judge? And who had access to the offices in the first place? Clearly the police have their work cut out for them, never mind the fact that some of the suspects are high-ranking judiciaries.
Investigating the case is police detective Jillian Bassett who has just returned to service after being on maternity leave. She is struggling with personal demons but is also completely committed to her job, almost too committed actually. She’s wracked with guilt over the fact that she enjoys being away from home and away from her new baby. From Jillian’s experience we are given a deeper understanding of some of the difficulties experienced by mothers, the internal struggles they may be going through and the isolation felt through a growing sense of being overwhelmed. The importance of the struggles that she goes through shouldn’t be understated or dismissed.
The murder investigation unfolds at a steady pace with four or five credible suspects considered. Pretty standard stuff really, interviews, the occasional piece of physical evidence and the like. But for quite a good portion of the book there is a real sense of treading water going on with very few high points or shocking revelations.
There was some good character development exhibited throughout and part of this was in the relationship between Jillian and her new partner Detective John McClintock. At first he’s thought to be too smooth and self-assured but it becomes obvious that there’s more to him than meets the eye and perhaps Jillian was hasty in her initial opinion. For me, the weakness of this story is the unlikable nature of Jillian, the main character. It was difficult to be sympathetic towards her, she was quick to judge and condemn others and I found it difficult to empathise with her.
Judgement Day is a solid debut murder mystery by Mali Waugh and its strength lies in the way in which a serious mental health issue is treated. The mystery was adeptly unraveled through a combination of good detective work and good luck to reach a tense but somewhat predictable resolution. That being said, I'll be backing up should Bassett and McClintock be called out on another case.
Family law court judge Kaye Bailey is murdered in her chambers one night after a party in which she was named to be the next Chief Judge. The night also coincided with the impending release of a much anticipated (and high profile) judgement. Although Bailey was a very good judge, she also stepped on the toes of quite a few people, thus widening the list of people who may have wanted to kill her.
Who could the murderer be? Could it be someone who hates the entire family law system? Or someone who hates Bailey herself after appearing before her? Or maybe it’s a jealous judge? And who had access to the offices in the first place? Clearly the police have their work cut out for them, never mind the fact that some of the suspects are high-ranking judiciaries.
Investigating the case is police detective Jillian Bassett who has just returned to service after being on maternity leave. She is struggling with personal demons but is also completely committed to her job, almost too committed actually. She’s wracked with guilt over the fact that she enjoys being away from home and away from her new baby. From Jillian’s experience we are given a deeper understanding of some of the difficulties experienced by mothers, the internal struggles they may be going through and the isolation felt through a growing sense of being overwhelmed. The importance of the struggles that she goes through shouldn’t be understated or dismissed.
The murder investigation unfolds at a steady pace with four or five credible suspects considered. Pretty standard stuff really, interviews, the occasional piece of physical evidence and the like. But for quite a good portion of the book there is a real sense of treading water going on with very few high points or shocking revelations.
There was some good character development exhibited throughout and part of this was in the relationship between Jillian and her new partner Detective John McClintock. At first he’s thought to be too smooth and self-assured but it becomes obvious that there’s more to him than meets the eye and perhaps Jillian was hasty in her initial opinion. For me, the weakness of this story is the unlikable nature of Jillian, the main character. It was difficult to be sympathetic towards her, she was quick to judge and condemn others and I found it difficult to empathise with her.
Judgement Day is a solid debut murder mystery by Mali Waugh and its strength lies in the way in which a serious mental health issue is treated. The mystery was adeptly unraveled through a combination of good detective work and good luck to reach a tense but somewhat predictable resolution. That being said, I'll be backing up should Bassett and McClintock be called out on another case.
January 14, 2024
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
⚖️Mali Waugh is a debut Australian author with a background in law. Judgement Day is her first novel. A compelling story about the murder of a family court judge and the resulting police investigation to solve this perplexing case, Judgement Day is an astute legal thriller.
⚖️A breath of fresh air in the Australian legal thriller scene, Mali Waugh presents readers her compelling debut novel, Judgement Day. Four well known Australian crime fiction novelists have endorsed the back and front covers of Judgement Day, so I knew I was going to be in for a fantastic read. Judgement Day centres around the murder of a female family law judge. I liked this quite different from the crowd set up for a legal thriller. I was immediately drawn into this case and I hoped that justice would be served in the hunt to find Kaye Bailey’s killer. All sorts of scenarios and options came to mind as I read this book, as well as red herring style leads thanks to the author’s approach. Seasoned crime fiction readers will appreciate this element. Judgement Day is a smart and complex thriller.
⚖️The police procedural aspect of Judgement Day is presented with care, attention and authenticity. I enjoyed the interactions between the investigative team. Waugh chooses to zone in on the personal struggles of her central detective, Jillian Basset. A new and returning to work mother, Jillian is faced with a barrage of issues to contend with as she deals with this trying case. Themes of motherhood, postnatal care, anxiety and guilt all come into play. These are big emotions, handled with sensitivity and authenticity. I could understand Jillian’s position and I’m sure there are other mothers out there who will find this protagonist's journey a worthy one to follow.
⚖️With a whip smart writing style, a convoluted plot, gritty characters, a well-placed Melbourne city setting, an insider viewpoint of the court system in Australia, personable themes and a thrilling conclusion, Judgement Day is a must read!
🙏Thank you to @macmillanaus for the copy
⚖️Mali Waugh is a debut Australian author with a background in law. Judgement Day is her first novel. A compelling story about the murder of a family court judge and the resulting police investigation to solve this perplexing case, Judgement Day is an astute legal thriller.
⚖️A breath of fresh air in the Australian legal thriller scene, Mali Waugh presents readers her compelling debut novel, Judgement Day. Four well known Australian crime fiction novelists have endorsed the back and front covers of Judgement Day, so I knew I was going to be in for a fantastic read. Judgement Day centres around the murder of a female family law judge. I liked this quite different from the crowd set up for a legal thriller. I was immediately drawn into this case and I hoped that justice would be served in the hunt to find Kaye Bailey’s killer. All sorts of scenarios and options came to mind as I read this book, as well as red herring style leads thanks to the author’s approach. Seasoned crime fiction readers will appreciate this element. Judgement Day is a smart and complex thriller.
⚖️The police procedural aspect of Judgement Day is presented with care, attention and authenticity. I enjoyed the interactions between the investigative team. Waugh chooses to zone in on the personal struggles of her central detective, Jillian Basset. A new and returning to work mother, Jillian is faced with a barrage of issues to contend with as she deals with this trying case. Themes of motherhood, postnatal care, anxiety and guilt all come into play. These are big emotions, handled with sensitivity and authenticity. I could understand Jillian’s position and I’m sure there are other mothers out there who will find this protagonist's journey a worthy one to follow.
⚖️With a whip smart writing style, a convoluted plot, gritty characters, a well-placed Melbourne city setting, an insider viewpoint of the court system in Australia, personable themes and a thrilling conclusion, Judgement Day is a must read!
🙏Thank you to @macmillanaus for the copy
February 28, 2023
Judgement Day by Mali Waugh is essentially a police procedural but we dip enough into the world of the judiciary that it equally qualifies as a legal procedural. Either way it's an excellent debut by Waugh and gives us a twisty crime to solve and infuses just enough of the non-investigative stuff to offer up characters of substance I'd like to meet again.
We're introduced to Jillian on her first day back at work as a Detective Senior Sergeant following maternity leave when she's assigned the case of the murdered Family Law Court judge. She's paired with the person who's been acting in her role and there's a bit of a turf war initially as she finds her feet. Sergeant John McClintock (Mick) is also the kind of person Jillian hates. Overly polished and far far too smooth and charming.
There's a very strong focus on family law here, with property settlements and maintenance payments, not to mention coercion and domestic and family violence, and Waugh gives us several cases or examples of relationships gone very wrong so we're reminded of what's been at stake - for the now-deceased judge and those whose cases she presided over.
We also learn a little about the operations of the courts and politics accompanying that. Waugh's own background as a lawyer means she can effortlessly reference the justice system and law enforcement practices with ease.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
We're introduced to Jillian on her first day back at work as a Detective Senior Sergeant following maternity leave when she's assigned the case of the murdered Family Law Court judge. She's paired with the person who's been acting in her role and there's a bit of a turf war initially as she finds her feet. Sergeant John McClintock (Mick) is also the kind of person Jillian hates. Overly polished and far far too smooth and charming.
There's a very strong focus on family law here, with property settlements and maintenance payments, not to mention coercion and domestic and family violence, and Waugh gives us several cases or examples of relationships gone very wrong so we're reminded of what's been at stake - for the now-deceased judge and those whose cases she presided over.
We also learn a little about the operations of the courts and politics accompanying that. Waugh's own background as a lawyer means she can effortlessly reference the justice system and law enforcement practices with ease.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
October 5, 2024
A very entertaining debut novel, a police procedural come legal thriller. Detective Sergeant Jillian Bassett & Detective John McClintock investigate the murder of Judge Kaye Bailey in her chambers.
I enjoyed the crime investigation which revolved around the judiciary, & particular around the Family Court & its decisions. Kaye Bailey was killed on the night of the announcement of her appointment Chief Justice, from which position she was expected to make some unpopular changes.
Jillian Bassett is a rather unlikeable protagonist, a very judgemental character who is suffering mental health issues surrounding the recent birth of her first child, & unwilling to do anything about it. There are a number of important women's issues referenced throughout but there was way too much about Jillian's post-partum difficulties: while I'm happy for characters to develop, I'd rather the investigation be the focal point of the tale. John McClintock is a very supportive colleague despite Jillian's obvious dislike of, & irritation with, him.
I expect that both Bassett & McClintock will improve on knowing so I they will make another appearance in the not too distant future.
I enjoyed the crime investigation which revolved around the judiciary, & particular around the Family Court & its decisions. Kaye Bailey was killed on the night of the announcement of her appointment Chief Justice, from which position she was expected to make some unpopular changes.
Jillian Bassett is a rather unlikeable protagonist, a very judgemental character who is suffering mental health issues surrounding the recent birth of her first child, & unwilling to do anything about it. There are a number of important women's issues referenced throughout but there was way too much about Jillian's post-partum difficulties: while I'm happy for characters to develop, I'd rather the investigation be the focal point of the tale. John McClintock is a very supportive colleague despite Jillian's obvious dislike of, & irritation with, him.
I expect that both Bassett & McClintock will improve on knowing so I they will make another appearance in the not too distant future.
March 22, 2023
Family law judge Kaye Bailey is found murdered in her chambers. Is this the work of a disgruntled complainant? Or an inside job by a jealous colleague? Or is there something even more insidious at the heart of this brutal act?
Detective Jillian Basset is just back from maternity leave, struggling with new motherhood as she tackles the biggest case of her career. As her work and home lives get messier and messier, though, something's going to give.
⭐️ Setting aside that this is a wonderful, twisty and gripping crime thriller. Waugh has cleverly and sensitively tapped into mothers returning to work after parental leave. Their internal struggles and identity as a mother and a professional. I personally loved the vulnerability and female strength within this angle and found Jillian as a character and the storyline as a whole, richer for it.
Set within the family law court system and the politics with in, there is no shortage of suspects. I loved the omniscient narrator chapters, they fill in little clues along the way, throw some red herrings and give a deeper depth to the narrative. Great character development, propelling writing, atmospheric and a new author I can’t wait to read more from.
Overall a wonderful new, contemporary voice to Aussie crime fiction.
Solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to the wonderful team @macmillan for a #gifted advanced reading copy 🥰
Detective Jillian Basset is just back from maternity leave, struggling with new motherhood as she tackles the biggest case of her career. As her work and home lives get messier and messier, though, something's going to give.
⭐️ Setting aside that this is a wonderful, twisty and gripping crime thriller. Waugh has cleverly and sensitively tapped into mothers returning to work after parental leave. Their internal struggles and identity as a mother and a professional. I personally loved the vulnerability and female strength within this angle and found Jillian as a character and the storyline as a whole, richer for it.
Set within the family law court system and the politics with in, there is no shortage of suspects. I loved the omniscient narrator chapters, they fill in little clues along the way, throw some red herrings and give a deeper depth to the narrative. Great character development, propelling writing, atmospheric and a new author I can’t wait to read more from.
Overall a wonderful new, contemporary voice to Aussie crime fiction.
Solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to the wonderful team @macmillan for a #gifted advanced reading copy 🥰
June 5, 2023
Debut of an outstanding Aussie author, Mali Waugh.
You just know when you’re reading an author with a brilliant future ahead of them. Her writing has such depth of detail, she creates a gambit of potential problems and a there’s tightly held clutch of clues. All tied together with a whopper-sized twist!
Insightful, mature, balanced, descriptive writing which was a pleasure to read.
You just know when you’re reading an author with a brilliant future ahead of them. Her writing has such depth of detail, she creates a gambit of potential problems and a there’s tightly held clutch of clues. All tied together with a whopper-sized twist!
Insightful, mature, balanced, descriptive writing which was a pleasure to read.
November 24, 2022
I received an ARC of this book.
Judgement Day reminds me a little of early style Grisham. It is a fantastic debut from Australian author Mali Waugh.
Set in the world of family law court judges, what happens when a high profile judge is murdered in chambers? Who knew there was so much going on behind closed doors in the Judges chambers? That there was so much jealousy and anger, not quite so much collaboration. This book will keep you up at night as you keep turning the pages to discover the how and the why.
Our detective is a slightly flawed new mum who is struggling to connect with her baby. Her personal journey is one that we take, cheering for her all the way - in her home life and her professional one.
Great new voice in the world of legal thrillers!
Judgement Day reminds me a little of early style Grisham. It is a fantastic debut from Australian author Mali Waugh.
Set in the world of family law court judges, what happens when a high profile judge is murdered in chambers? Who knew there was so much going on behind closed doors in the Judges chambers? That there was so much jealousy and anger, not quite so much collaboration. This book will keep you up at night as you keep turning the pages to discover the how and the why.
Our detective is a slightly flawed new mum who is struggling to connect with her baby. Her personal journey is one that we take, cheering for her all the way - in her home life and her professional one.
Great new voice in the world of legal thrillers!
April 6, 2023
Reading Aussie authors makes me so happy - I'm so proud of all the Aussie talent in this industry! I was late to read Mali Waugh's debut novel but the reviews were right and I loved it. I struggled to put it down and wanted to keep on reading to see who was responsible for the murder of the family law judge. There were lots of twists and I liked that we got to hear about the detective's life as well throughout. I'm keen to see what the author writes next.
June 15, 2023
This was a fabulous legal mystery and I loved that it was set in Australia. I look forward to more by this author.
January 15, 2023
This one is noted on the cover as a pacy legal thriller. It’s actually more police procedural, but regardless of that point, it is a very good read.
The story is set in the legal world, with a Family Court judge found murdered in her chambers. The story largely follows the Melbourne detectives, Bassett and McClintock in their search for the killer.
A clever plot that keeps you guessing, and Jillian Bassett’s struggles as a new mother returning from maternity leave provides an interesting sub-theme.
A polished debut and I’ll be keen to read more from this author.
The story is set in the legal world, with a Family Court judge found murdered in her chambers. The story largely follows the Melbourne detectives, Bassett and McClintock in their search for the killer.
A clever plot that keeps you guessing, and Jillian Bassett’s struggles as a new mother returning from maternity leave provides an interesting sub-theme.
A polished debut and I’ll be keen to read more from this author.
March 8, 2023
Thank you Pan Macmillan for sending us a copy to read and review.
A criminal and deviant element exists among people from all socioeconomic backgrounds and from all professions.
A murdered judge in her chambers sets the scene for this police procedural tale.
Detective Jillian Basset returns back to work after maternity leave and is handed the case of murdered Judge Kaye Bailey.
Relieved she can immerse herself in work distracts and removes her from motherhood duties, a role she can’t quite adjust to.
She needs to connect the dots and find motive in a world where it may have been from internal jealousy, a disgruntled client or did she know something.
Set in Melbourne and centred around the legal precincts so familiar to us in Victoria, we get an insight into a world of the judiciary.
An awesome debut reveals we have a new talented Aussie voice in the criminal thriller genre.
The technical construct was laid out well and clues were there as the dedicated detective unraveled the mystery.
I really enjoyed the personal journey Jillian undertakes in adjusting to her new role as a mum.
Hiding at work won’t solve what a bit of help can.
A criminal and deviant element exists among people from all socioeconomic backgrounds and from all professions.
A murdered judge in her chambers sets the scene for this police procedural tale.
Detective Jillian Basset returns back to work after maternity leave and is handed the case of murdered Judge Kaye Bailey.
Relieved she can immerse herself in work distracts and removes her from motherhood duties, a role she can’t quite adjust to.
She needs to connect the dots and find motive in a world where it may have been from internal jealousy, a disgruntled client or did she know something.
Set in Melbourne and centred around the legal precincts so familiar to us in Victoria, we get an insight into a world of the judiciary.
An awesome debut reveals we have a new talented Aussie voice in the criminal thriller genre.
The technical construct was laid out well and clues were there as the dedicated detective unraveled the mystery.
I really enjoyed the personal journey Jillian undertakes in adjusting to her new role as a mum.
Hiding at work won’t solve what a bit of help can.
April 3, 2023
I first heard about this very recent release via an interview between David Astle and the author one evening on 774 while driving back to Geelong from the airport. The interview was engaging as the novel itself proved to be- a genuine page turner that was an ideal holiday read with no interruptions to mar the unfolding narrative.
Having family who work in the area of family violence and child protection, this provided an added familiarity to the book content and themes as did the setting of Melbourne Supreme Court, Yarraville, Lara, Brunswick, Kew, Hawthorn and Seddon.
I had hoped to hear the author address an audience in person in Ocean Grove last month but the library presentation was cancelled at short notice- so I look forward to that opportunity on another occasion as indeed any future accounts or writings Waugh may publish.
Having family who work in the area of family violence and child protection, this provided an added familiarity to the book content and themes as did the setting of Melbourne Supreme Court, Yarraville, Lara, Brunswick, Kew, Hawthorn and Seddon.
I had hoped to hear the author address an audience in person in Ocean Grove last month but the library presentation was cancelled at short notice- so I look forward to that opportunity on another occasion as indeed any future accounts or writings Waugh may publish.
May 4, 2023
Here is a new Australian author to watch.
An Australian family law judge is murdered just hours after her colleagues are told that she will be the next Chief Justice of the Family Law Court. There is no lack of suspects, because Kaye Bailey was extremely outspoken.
It becomes her first case after maternity leave for Detective Jill Bassett. Jill thinks she will be happier returning to work, as she is certainly deeply uncomfortable with motherhood. She buries herself in the case, troubled by her relationship with the Acting Detective who has filled her shoes for the last six months. She would prefer to be working on her own, but things improve on the working front, at the same time as things at home go into a downward spiral.
This novel had me totally hooked.
An Australian family law judge is murdered just hours after her colleagues are told that she will be the next Chief Justice of the Family Law Court. There is no lack of suspects, because Kaye Bailey was extremely outspoken.
It becomes her first case after maternity leave for Detective Jill Bassett. Jill thinks she will be happier returning to work, as she is certainly deeply uncomfortable with motherhood. She buries herself in the case, troubled by her relationship with the Acting Detective who has filled her shoes for the last six months. She would prefer to be working on her own, but things improve on the working front, at the same time as things at home go into a downward spiral.
This novel had me totally hooked.
May 16, 2023
Excellent debut - I’ll be following this author with keen interest.
April 3, 2023
I cant believe this is the authors first book.
I couldn't put it down and wanted to keep reading. I love all the strong female characters throughout from Judge Bailey to the Detective Bassett.
I couldn't put it down and wanted to keep reading. I love all the strong female characters throughout from Judge Bailey to the Detective Bassett.
April 22, 2024
This book was provided courtesy of Pan Macmillan Australia, with an accompanying interview with Mali Waugh featured on the literary podcast Date With A Debut in April 2023. I have not received any rewards or compensation for this review and therefore all views and opinions are of my own, the reviewer.
Mild spoilers below.
There are few things more enticing than a good murder mystery, but few examine the challenges of examining a murder within the ranks of the justice system itself. In that regard, Mali Waugh’s Judgement Day immediately sticks out in a growing list of exciting Australian crime writers.
Set within and around the family law courts of Melbourne, when judge Kaye Bailey, set to take over the role of chief justice is found murdered in her chambers, Detective Jillian Basset is called in to investigate, teaming up with Seargent John McClintok to track down the killer.
Jillian is struggling with many challenges, having come off maternity leave and struggling heavily with being a mother, a situation that sees her partner Aaron shouldering much of the parental responsibilities. She is a fantastic character for this story, filled with self-doubt but also a burning desire to work - especially which comes through in many of the challenges faced as a women in the force.
The attention to detail around the procedural work is really impressive, with Waugh’s clear background in law shining through. You understand this world, how things work, the egoes, and also consequently, the challenges faced when you try to uncover more. This book has a lot to saw about the law system at large.
As a consequence however, the first section of this book can feel a bit drawn out, with many names flying around. Especially with such a brilliant opening prologue where we experience the victim’s final moments, this section can feel somewhat directionless as we deal with details, meet new characters, and go back to multiple settings. Both Jillian and McClintok do take time to gel - and there are times where they do not like each other.
However, the second part two kicks in, the book immediately picks up steam. It is helped by the subplot of Jillian’s struggles with motherhood also reaching a point of crisis - which grounds the story brilliantly and sells the significance of this case to Jillian. To keep it spoiler free, the final reveal really highlights how strong a detective she is, with the result shining through brilliantly.
If you are a fan of crime drama, especially procedural, you are going to enjoy Judgement Day a lot. Waugh is a writer to watch with her great mind for detail and a very loaded case to unwrap - and while the wealth of information can be overloading at points, I came away from this book very rewarded.
3.5/5
Booktopia: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/R5yB42
Angus & Robertson: https://angusrobertson.4tqiav.net/LXk11L
Date With A Debut Podcast episode with Mali Waugh: https://spoti.fi/4dafzyQ
Mild spoilers below.
There are few things more enticing than a good murder mystery, but few examine the challenges of examining a murder within the ranks of the justice system itself. In that regard, Mali Waugh’s Judgement Day immediately sticks out in a growing list of exciting Australian crime writers.
Set within and around the family law courts of Melbourne, when judge Kaye Bailey, set to take over the role of chief justice is found murdered in her chambers, Detective Jillian Basset is called in to investigate, teaming up with Seargent John McClintok to track down the killer.
Jillian is struggling with many challenges, having come off maternity leave and struggling heavily with being a mother, a situation that sees her partner Aaron shouldering much of the parental responsibilities. She is a fantastic character for this story, filled with self-doubt but also a burning desire to work - especially which comes through in many of the challenges faced as a women in the force.
The attention to detail around the procedural work is really impressive, with Waugh’s clear background in law shining through. You understand this world, how things work, the egoes, and also consequently, the challenges faced when you try to uncover more. This book has a lot to saw about the law system at large.
As a consequence however, the first section of this book can feel a bit drawn out, with many names flying around. Especially with such a brilliant opening prologue where we experience the victim’s final moments, this section can feel somewhat directionless as we deal with details, meet new characters, and go back to multiple settings. Both Jillian and McClintok do take time to gel - and there are times where they do not like each other.
However, the second part two kicks in, the book immediately picks up steam. It is helped by the subplot of Jillian’s struggles with motherhood also reaching a point of crisis - which grounds the story brilliantly and sells the significance of this case to Jillian. To keep it spoiler free, the final reveal really highlights how strong a detective she is, with the result shining through brilliantly.
If you are a fan of crime drama, especially procedural, you are going to enjoy Judgement Day a lot. Waugh is a writer to watch with her great mind for detail and a very loaded case to unwrap - and while the wealth of information can be overloading at points, I came away from this book very rewarded.
3.5/5
Booktopia: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/R5yB42
Angus & Robertson: https://angusrobertson.4tqiav.net/LXk11L
Date With A Debut Podcast episode with Mali Waugh: https://spoti.fi/4dafzyQ
February 25, 2023
2022 saw a swag of very good debut Australian crime novels by Dinuka McKenzie, Shelley Burr and Mathew Spencer, and several others. That run of high quality first novels is now continuing into 2023, with this terrific debut novel by Mali Waugh, Judgement Day.
Set amid the drama and egos of Melbourne’s family law courts, Judgement Day is a well written and compelling police detection novel that also takes a searing look at the legal system.
Judgement Day opens with family law judge Kaye Bailey found murdered in her chambers just after being promoted to the role of Chief Judge. Is it the work of a disgruntled complainant? Or an inside job by a jealous colleague? Or something even more sinister? Working her way through the chaos is police detective Jillian Bassett, who has just returned from maternity leave and is trying to juggle the new demands of motherhood and a very difficult case. As the pressure increases, and her suspicions about a colleague mount, Jillian’s life begins to spiral out of control.
This is a very assured first novel. The plotting is tight, and the story flows smoothly and at a good pace. There are the expected twists and turns to the story, and Mali does a good job at keeping the reader guessing as to the identity of the murderer and their motive. The characters are well crafted and nicely nuanced, especially that of Jillian who is a good mix of professional competence and person fragility. I also quite liked her partner, Sergeant John McClintock, who has his own demons and secrets. Some of the senior judges seem a little exaggerated at first glance, but on reflection their behaviours pale against that of other senior public officials I have known.
Mali currently works as a family lawyer in Melbourne and her background brings a good deal of authenticity and interesting background detail to the novel. Drawing on this personal experience she provides a hard hitting view of the family law system and those caught up in it. There are also some sharp eyed comments on wealth and privilege in Melbourne.
If I have quibble about Judgement Day it is that while the story moves along at a good pace, with plenty of developments and surprises, there is a scarcity of action and most of the tension comes from Jillian’s personal crises, rather than the murder plot. That being said, it certainly kept me well engaged and keenly turning the pages until the end.
In all, Judgement Day is a first class novel, and it is good to see an Australian debut that is set in a major city and dealing with topical contemporary issues, rather than another slice of dusty outback noir.
See full review here: https://murdermayhemandlongdogs.com/m...
Set amid the drama and egos of Melbourne’s family law courts, Judgement Day is a well written and compelling police detection novel that also takes a searing look at the legal system.
Judgement Day opens with family law judge Kaye Bailey found murdered in her chambers just after being promoted to the role of Chief Judge. Is it the work of a disgruntled complainant? Or an inside job by a jealous colleague? Or something even more sinister? Working her way through the chaos is police detective Jillian Bassett, who has just returned from maternity leave and is trying to juggle the new demands of motherhood and a very difficult case. As the pressure increases, and her suspicions about a colleague mount, Jillian’s life begins to spiral out of control.
This is a very assured first novel. The plotting is tight, and the story flows smoothly and at a good pace. There are the expected twists and turns to the story, and Mali does a good job at keeping the reader guessing as to the identity of the murderer and their motive. The characters are well crafted and nicely nuanced, especially that of Jillian who is a good mix of professional competence and person fragility. I also quite liked her partner, Sergeant John McClintock, who has his own demons and secrets. Some of the senior judges seem a little exaggerated at first glance, but on reflection their behaviours pale against that of other senior public officials I have known.
Mali currently works as a family lawyer in Melbourne and her background brings a good deal of authenticity and interesting background detail to the novel. Drawing on this personal experience she provides a hard hitting view of the family law system and those caught up in it. There are also some sharp eyed comments on wealth and privilege in Melbourne.
If I have quibble about Judgement Day it is that while the story moves along at a good pace, with plenty of developments and surprises, there is a scarcity of action and most of the tension comes from Jillian’s personal crises, rather than the murder plot. That being said, it certainly kept me well engaged and keenly turning the pages until the end.
In all, Judgement Day is a first class novel, and it is good to see an Australian debut that is set in a major city and dealing with topical contemporary issues, rather than another slice of dusty outback noir.
See full review here: https://murdermayhemandlongdogs.com/m...
April 19, 2023
I received a copy of Judgement Day from Pan MacMillan Australia to review.
Rating of 4.5.
Fantastic new author Mali Waugh presents her excellent and memorable debut with the Australian crime fiction read, Judgement Day.
Family law judge Kaye Bailey is a woman on the rise. An honest and determined member of Melbourne’s Federal Circuit Court, Kaye is set to be the next chief judge, allowing her to make the changes she’s always dreamed about to make a real difference. However, hours after finding out about her promotion, Kaye is brutally murdered in her chambers.
Detective Jillian Basset has just returned from maternity leave and is having trouble balancing motherhood with her complicated career. Brought in with an arrogant partner to investigate the killing at the courthouse, Jillian hopes to crack the biggest case of her career. However, the murder of Judge Bailey is far more complicated than anyone anticipated, as the victim was a fierce and honest woman whose determination caused her to get on the wrong side of many of her colleagues and the people she ruled on.
As the detectives dive deeper into the judge’s life, they soon find themselves surrounded by potential suspects, from jealous judges to dangerous individuals with grudges against the entire family law system. As they attempt to understand who wanted to kill their victim, Jillian also finds her own life getting even messier, as her return to work raises problems she has been trying to avoid. Can Jillian crack the case before her own life spirals out of control?
Judgement Day was an amazing and captivating Australian novel that got my attention early on. Waugh pulls together a powerful and intense narrative that combines a brilliant murder mystery storyline with some fascinating legal thriller elements to produce a particularly impressive debut.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2023/04/19/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
Rating of 4.5.
Fantastic new author Mali Waugh presents her excellent and memorable debut with the Australian crime fiction read, Judgement Day.
Family law judge Kaye Bailey is a woman on the rise. An honest and determined member of Melbourne’s Federal Circuit Court, Kaye is set to be the next chief judge, allowing her to make the changes she’s always dreamed about to make a real difference. However, hours after finding out about her promotion, Kaye is brutally murdered in her chambers.
Detective Jillian Basset has just returned from maternity leave and is having trouble balancing motherhood with her complicated career. Brought in with an arrogant partner to investigate the killing at the courthouse, Jillian hopes to crack the biggest case of her career. However, the murder of Judge Bailey is far more complicated than anyone anticipated, as the victim was a fierce and honest woman whose determination caused her to get on the wrong side of many of her colleagues and the people she ruled on.
As the detectives dive deeper into the judge’s life, they soon find themselves surrounded by potential suspects, from jealous judges to dangerous individuals with grudges against the entire family law system. As they attempt to understand who wanted to kill their victim, Jillian also finds her own life getting even messier, as her return to work raises problems she has been trying to avoid. Can Jillian crack the case before her own life spirals out of control?
Judgement Day was an amazing and captivating Australian novel that got my attention early on. Waugh pulls together a powerful and intense narrative that combines a brilliant murder mystery storyline with some fascinating legal thriller elements to produce a particularly impressive debut.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2023/04/19/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
June 11, 2023
I hate to be harsh but this is a first novel and it shows. There are two stories: Jillian the dysfunctional mother is riddled with cliches, and the unrelated story of Jillian the detective investigating the murder of a Judge. The latter is the real story and the former a distraction that paints Jillian in a bad light affecting the story. The thought did cross my mind that Waugh herself might have gone through a phase of the bad mother Jillian and wanted to talk about it, although the Acknowledgements give the lie to that ungracious thought. I thought too that the author simply didnlt get th voice right. The detective is usually in the 3rd person in the whodunnit genre, as here, but Jillian wanted to show her thinking, which she did with those irritating first person italics, on nearly every page. She should have rewritten to incorporate them into the 3rd person Jillian, or write Jillian in the 1st person. The plot itself is complex, but the way it is written it is sometimes hard to follow, and in a sense it is the waste of a good plot. There are moments of poor writing that need rereading to try and see what the author meant (e.g. Kindle p. 259). Others may well disagree as they surely do, as I see the reviews on Goodreads, but the technicalities of the writing took over from my appreciation of the story.
January 3, 2024
New Australian crime novel by a Melbourne writer, and very well paced and plotted, with good characters and locations (especially for those who know Melbourne). In a preface a family law judge, Kaye Bailey, is found murdered just after a party where the retiring crusty chief judge revealed that she had been selected as the new chief judge for the family law courts. It is a semi-locked door case, with an array of potential suspects, including other judges and associates with their various back stories and animosities, as well as disaffected former clients of the law courts who are prone to sending threats and dick pics to judges who have ruled unfavourably for them. The chief investigator, Jillian Basset, is just returning to work after some maternity leave and has her own problems related to the new baby and her marriage; and her colleagues also throw up some tensions and unrevealed back stories. I really liked this story. It’s possible to guess the culprit before the end, but there are enough possibilities and threads in play to make this very page-turning. Also worked well in the audio version.
March 26, 2023
Judgement Day is Mali Waugh’s debut novel snd she has really done some fantastic research to bring this story to life . When family law judge Kaye Bailey is found murdered in her chambers the net is wide as to who may be responsible .
Returning from maternity leave and battling her own demons , detective Jillian Basset is put on the case . Thus book could be put into many categories, police or legal procedural or crime thriller . I really enjoyed this debut novel and as always loved that it was set in my home city . Highly recommended!
Returning from maternity leave and battling her own demons , detective Jillian Basset is put on the case . Thus book could be put into many categories, police or legal procedural or crime thriller . I really enjoyed this debut novel and as always loved that it was set in my home city . Highly recommended!
April 23, 2023
I devoured this book in a day. The question of who killed Kaye Bailey is part of the book, but there is so much more. Gender balance, post natal depression, class and the problems in family law and jurisprudence in general all come into this . As the story unfolds, we find out more about the initially disliked MacClintock, and I enjoyed this aspect of the story. I loved that it was set in Melbourne, as I know it well. I hope we hear more of Jillian and John, if not another novel by Mail Waugh would be scooped up quickly by me.
June 26, 2023
This was excellent - well worth the surprising amount it cost to order it from Australia. The portrayal of the character of Senior Sergeant Jillian, newly returned to work after maternity leave, was interesting. The author didn't go the way I had anticipated - Jillian's boss is entirely supportive, her co-worker and she gradually start to work well together - and it turns out the work half of her life is not where the problems lie.
This was well-plotted and well-written, and I really hope this is the beginning of a series. Highly recommended.
This was well-plotted and well-written, and I really hope this is the beginning of a series. Highly recommended.
March 10, 2023
A classic of the genre of pacey crime thriller with a flawed and self sabotaging detective, it is plot driven and gripping. But Jillian Basset's inner struggles with returning to work after parental leave and her identity as a new mother provides a fresh angle that parents, especially mums will relate to. Loved the observations of people and the class and power divides within the court system.
A fun and twisty read that kept me guessing. Recommend!
A fun and twisty read that kept me guessing. Recommend!
February 25, 2023
I rate it as 3.5. Great debut crime novel, set in Melbourne, centring around the murder of a family law court judge. Well paced. Touches on issues of domestic violence and the efficacy of the legal system, as well as the treatment of women working in the legal and criminal systems. Can see it having the potential of being part of a series continuing the story of the main detective Jillian.
March 31, 2023
Loved this legal thriller/police procedural set in Melbourne by new Australian author Mail Waugh.
Great plot, great characters, excellent sense of place and several great plot twists.
I read this book in one sitting reading late into the night. I look forward to reading any future books by this excellent new author!
Great plot, great characters, excellent sense of place and several great plot twists.
I read this book in one sitting reading late into the night. I look forward to reading any future books by this excellent new author!
April 2, 2023
I was captivated by this story primarily because of the description of the family law courts and judges lives and interactions. Jillian’s post natal depression incidents provided a great back story to the detectives vs the judges back story. It feels like there should be a follow up on Mick and Jillian - the detectives. Hopefully!
July 18, 2023
Debut novel involving the murder of a Family Court senior judge....the protagonist is enduring post natal depression (one wonders how with her issues in the past she became a cop !).
Writing skills are evident as issues and clues are 'revealed '....ably so to retain the reader's interest till the end.
Writing skills are evident as issues and clues are 'revealed '....ably so to retain the reader's interest till the end.
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