Web of Deceit

Australian author Howell (Frantic) makes her U.S. debut with her excellent sixth mystery in her series starring Sydney police detectives Ella Marconi and her partner, Murray Shakespeare. Ella and Murray follow an unusual case that starts when paramedics Jane Koutoufides and Alex Churchill assist at an accident. Marko Meixner seems to have deliberately crashed his car into a pole and refuses to come out. The paramedics eventually get him to the hospital, from which he soon leaves. The paramedics’ next encounter with Marko is when his body is found mangled under a train. The detectives’ investigation in the Sydney area uncovers that Marko’s testimony as a witness in a murder case 17 years before may be involved. Meanwhile, Jane and Alex, as well as Ella and Murray, all have personal problems. For example, Alex’s 14-year-old daughter, Mia, has suddenly become difficult and secretive. How the main characters balance the pressures and stresses of their professional and private lives further elevates the brisk plot. (Dec.)