An intriguing and unsettling read from author J. P. Powell who has again fluently merged wartime fact and fiction to create an absorbing exposé of what could have happened (and may have happened) in the 1940s town of Brisbane, Queensland, during WWII. There’s American involvement in a number of events. Major deals were occurring related to underworld crime, unexplained deaths, and a range of illicit activities from several nationalities.

‘Deception Bay’ is the second volume which follows American investigator MP Joe Washington as he tries to solve a mystery death. Inevitably he locks horns for a second time with corrupt adversary Brisbane detective Frank Bischof, who by the way was a real person.

Powell creates characters who are believable, they come alive, and Joe’s Aussie love interest Rose McAlister reminds me of my favourite aunt who served in WAAAF. Maybe he’s softened by romance but Joe Washington’s life is made of duty, it rules him, a man on a mission to solve an alleged suicide drowning—with very little to go on.

The book ‘Deception Bay’ (Deception Bay is near Brisbane) is fascinating reading and I enjoyed the addition of old buildings I know and how they were appropriated for the war effort. I love chapter 10 and Cintra House with its fine views and the discussion about Radiophone sending photographs over a new wireless invention.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wirephoto

A world at war, full of deception and conmen, at a time when the infrastructure of Brisbane was weak enough to allow underworld manipulation. Mates covering for mates, paedophilia, dodgy business dealings, and illegal enterprises which flourished unchecked. Sure, the authorities knew what was going on but nobody seemed to have the courage to stamp it out; what’s the odd skirmish or tattoo? The American servicemen were seen both as saviours and sinners by differing parts of society at the time. Joe faces a difficult task!

I purchased this book at Pulp Fiction Brisbane and feel there is a rhythmic flow to the story, a river city at a time of world war when I didn’t exist but nevertheless it has reached me.

❤ Gretchen Bernet-Ward 2024