The Beacon (P A Thomas, Echo)

Living in the Byron region, doctor-turned-author P A Thomas is well placed to helm this debut crime novel featuring colourful characters and rollicking action set in this lively location. Jack Harris is newly back in town, sent abruptly by his media magnate father to learn the ropes of journalism at their flagship paper, The Beacon. The editor, Patrick O’Shaughnessy, had been working on a mysterious story but disappeared during his morning surf. Jack and Caitlin, Patrick’s daughter, set about investigating while members of the bumbling police force drag their heels. A disgruntled nudist, a creepy holistic dentist, and the smarmy local mayor all had their quarrels with Patrick—but are any of them truly dangerous? Thomas’s great affection for the region shines through as The Beacon gently pokes fun at the varied demographics stereotypical of Byron Bay, while paying tribute to the rugged natural environment. The action really ramps up towards the end, James Bond style, complete with hired goons, code-cracking mobsters and crooked cops, and the finale is satisfyingly thrilling. Both Jack and Caitlin have intriguing backstories, and there could be potential for subsequent stories featuring these characters. Full of local flavour and comic turns, The Beacon would make a great beach or plane read for any Chris Hammer or Jane Harper fan or, of course, anyone with a connection to Byron Bay.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Annie Waters sells books, writes about books and podcasts about books. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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