THE BROKEN CHAIN

THE BROKEN CHAIN

A George “Magpie” Collins Mystery

By Len Driscoll

Glowing Eyes Media

106 pgs

 

We love private-eye mysteries going back to our teen-years when we first discovered such gumshoes as Mickey Spillane, Sam Spade, Shell Scott and dozens of others. Generally, their settings were either the cold, dark streets of New York, or the glaring, Hollywood ruled Sunset Strips of Los Angeles. Now comes a brand-new hero whose home turf is the byways of Sydney, Australia. 

It is Sydney post World War II, and the city, along with rest of the country, is struggling to re-adjust to a normal world not trying to destroy itself. George Collins, nicknamed Magpie because of his larcenous past, is trying to go straight as a private investigator. When a distraught Isobel Latimer arrives at his office, he instantly recognizes the name as belonging to one of the most powerful financial dynasties in the city. Isobel’s half-brother, Charlie Bistrow, has disappeared while attempting to uncover the truth of his mother’s death. She was the Latimer’s maid, and he suspects that Dominic Latimer, heir and master of the house, may be his father. The boy not only wants the truth but also his rightful share of family wealth. 

Magpie takes the case and soon learns that before his disappearance, Charlie has found incriminating documents revealing the family’s illegal smuggling operations during the war; activities that only increased their holdings. Were these to be made public, the whole Latimer clan collapsed under the scandal and Dominic, along with his chief associates, would be imprisoned. It is enough of a threat that Magpie realizes the danger surrounding Charlie. The kid is playing with fire that could get him killed. 

Writer Len Driscoll offers up a terrific, moody mystery rich with period atmosphere. He wisely paints Sydney as a silent character witnessing the foibles and sins of its people. Typical of a solid noir offering, “The Broken Chain” is almost poetic in its style and masterfully told. It’s a great opening entry to what looks to be an excellent series. Well worth your time and read.