Andrew Nette is
Australia’s answer to David Corbett - GHOST MONEY comprises the same deep and
richly detailed foreign landscape encrusted in local mannerisms, religion, and
occupation as Corbett’s BLOOD OF PARADISE. The plot centralises around Quinlan, a Melbourne cop turned PI and his search for the elusive Charles Avery. Hired by Avery’s sister, Quinlan follows a trail of blood through Cambodia in search of his quarry.
GHOST MONEY is not your run of
the mill PI novel. Nette provides the reader with
an interesting game and cat and mouse that's noir with
a subtle nod towards literature. Highlighting the political state,
grinding poverty, and socioeconomic landscape coupled with the
history associated with the Khmer Rouge, establishes a true sense of
struggle and identity. The peripheral two
dimensional 'extras in the background' going about their daily lives feel real and
with purpose, not merely serving as obstacles or obstructions for
Quinlan in his pursuit of Avery. Everything adds to the story.
The place-setting is much a character as protagonist PI Quinlan, changing the character’s perception, demeanor and level of influence with via a change of soil.
Along the way author Andrew Nette introduces many memorable characters to
accompany or hinder Quinlan; none more-so than Sarin, a local interpreter turned fast
friend.
The action does at time, lend itself to Jame Bond in an
ode to the spy pulps of yesteryear yet it is entirely justifiable. The dialogue and plot are smart; the detail a devil - GHOST MONEY is all consuming and utterly essential
for fans wanting more smarts to their noir.
Andrew Nette is on to
a winner in Quinlan, a PI who doesn't conform to the stereotype.
His background, emotional depth and way of getting into the private
gig separates him from the others. I sure hope to see more of Quinlan,
one cant help but think his story is just getting started. 5
stars.
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