Arthur W. Upfield Book order

The narrative captures a journey of discovery inspired by Zane Grey's writings, leading to the enchanting town of Bermagui. The vivid descriptions evoke the refreshing air, lush surroundings, and the soothing sounds of surf against the sandy beach. The protagonist is drawn to the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, highlighting a deep appreciation for its landscape and atmosphere. This exploration reflects a personal connection to place and the allure of nature.

The narrative revolves around Arthur Upfield, who becomes embroiled in a real-life investigation after publishing a crime thriller that mirrors actual murders linked to the conman Snowy Rowles. The West Australian police pursue Upfield, intrigued by the parallels between his fictional work and the unfolding mystery. This unique blend of fiction and reality creates a compelling backdrop as the author navigates the implications of his writing and its connection to true crime.

The collection features thirteen stories by Arthur Upfield, renowned for his crime novels with Bony, the Aboriginal Detective. Set in diverse Australian landscapes, these tales take readers on a journey through iconic locations like Cooper's Creek and Lake Frome, enhanced by maps and original photographs. Many stories provide rich context to Upfield's celebrated novels, while one recounts his leadership of a significant 5000-mile expedition for the Australian Geographical Society in 1948, showcasing his deep connection to the land and its culture.

The investigation into the mysterious death of renowned author Mervyn Blake unfolds through the keen observations of Detective-Inspector Bonaparte. As he navigates a web of clues—including a cat, a ping-pong ball, and a drunken gardener—Bony delves into human nature to uncover the truth. This mystery stands out as one of the few not set in the outback, showcasing the author's creativity and ingenuity in crafting a compelling narrative filled with intrigue and unexpected revelations.

Set in a tight-knit community in Western Australia, the story revolves around a series of murders that have left the town of Daybreak on edge. Inspector Bonaparte investigates the suspicions surrounding the enigmatic 'bad boy' Tony Carr, while the local Aboriginal tribe's absence raises questions. The arrival of Nat Bonnar, a newcomer seeking employment, adds another layer of intrigue as he navigates the complexities of the town and its residents amidst the unfolding mystery.

Set against the backdrop of the Australian outback, a woman's murder and her daughter's disappearance create a tense mystery. Ole Fren Yorky, a notorious wanderer, becomes a prime suspect after his footprints are found near the crime scene, but his sudden vanishing leaves authorities puzzled, including Aboriginal trackers. The arrival of Bony, a skilled investigator, promises to unravel the case and shed light on the troubling events, shifting the dynamics of the investigation.

The author, renowned for creating Detective Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte, also penned around 250 short stories and articles reflecting his bush experiences from 1911 to 1931. These writings provide a unique glimpse into life in the Australian outback, showcasing Upfield's versatility and depth beyond his famous crime novels.

Set against the backdrop of a dying Lake Otway, the story unfolds as a community grapples with the mysterious disappearance of Ray Gillen, a lottery winner. As heat and drought ravage the area, seven individuals converge by the lake, each with their own motives—some waiting for a body, others for a fortune. Amidst the tension, the enigmatic figure of Bony observes their interactions, hinting at deeper themes of greed, desperation, and the human condition in a harsh environment.

Set against the backdrop of Melbourne and a mountain resort, Detective-Inspector Bonaparte, known as Bony, navigates the challenges of city life while on a Military Intelligence assignment. Despite feeling out of place, he utilizes his keen investigative skills to unravel a series of enigmatic clues in pursuit of a clever murderer. The story highlights Bony's adaptability and resourcefulness as he confronts the complexities of urban crime.

Set in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, the story follows an Aboriginal detective who goes undercover as a horse-thief to investigate the murder of an Excise Officer. The officer was killed while searching for illegal whiskey operations in the rough and rowdy Cork Valley, populated by hard-drinking Irishmen. As the detective navigates this lawless community, he must unravel the mystery and confront the challenges of his disguise.