A Time-Worn Mystery in Sydney Harbour
In Pinchgut readers are transported to the atmospheric setting of an old fort in Sydney Harbour, where the discovery of a woman’s remains—seventeen years after her disappearance—sets the stage for a compelling cold case investigation. Strang masterfully weaves together the procedural elements of a murder investigation with the human drama that unfolds when long-buried secrets finally come to light.
The novel’s strength lies in its central investigative duo, Sergeant Natalie Campbell and Inspector Haddock, whose determination to solve a case many would consider hopeless drives the narrative forward with unstoppable momentum. Their methodical approach to unraveling the mystery feels authentic, with Strang demonstrating knowledge of police procedure without weighing down the pace.
Character Dynamics That Resonate
The antagonistic presence of Bernie Cornell—the victim’s father and one of Australia’s wealthiest men—adds layers of complexity to an already intricate plot. Cornell’s bombastic personality and imminent mortality create a ticking clock element that intensifies the stakes. As Campbell and Haddock navigate his interference and influence, readers are treated to a nuanced exploration of power dynamics and family secrets.
Strang transforms the historic Pinchgut fort into more than a mere backdrop—it becomes a character in its own right, with its isolation and stone walls standing as silent witnesses to both past and present crimes. The author’s descriptive prowess brings Sydney Harbour to life, creating an atmospheric tension that heightens the investigative journey.
A Satisfying Puzzle
While “Pinchgut” delivers on the procedural elements expected of the genre, it’s the psychological depth of its characters that elevates it above standard crime fare. The gradual unraveling of seventeen-year-old lies and the ripple effects of long-ago actions are handled with sensitivity and insight.
The novel occasionally sacrifices pacing for detail, but patient readers will be rewarded with a satisfyingly complex resolution that ties together disparate threads while still acknowledging the messy reality of human motivation.
For fans of atmospheric crime fiction with strong character development and a distinctive Australian setting, “Pinchgut” offers a compelling case that proves some secrets refuse to stay buried, no matter how much time passes.
