Neighbourhood Watch by Lauren Williams

Keep your enemies close, and your neighbours closer…

Lauren Williams' debut is a compelling crime story that combines a murder mystery with a thoughtful look at power, privilege and justice.

At the annual Curlew Street scarecrow competition in Melbourne's inner north, residents are confronted with a shocking sight. One scarecrow is not a scarecrow at all, but the body of Supreme Court Judge Harry Somerton, known as The Pope. It's an opening that immediately draws you into a tightly woven mystery.

The investigation is led by Priyanka Pal, a former psychologist turned homicide detective. Priyanka is determined, perceptive and candid about the challenges of being a woman of colour in a male-dominated police force. As the case unfolds, she finds herself confronting corruption and abuses of power within the institutions she is meant to trust.

Running alongside the police investigation is the story of sisters Emma and Margot Bloom. Emma appears successful and composed, while Margot sees the reality beneath the carefully maintained façade. Their relationship provides an emotional core to the novel as Lauren explores family loyalty, trauma and reconciliation. The death of Emma’s abusive husband becomes increasingly significant as the investigation unfolds, forcing the sisters to confront their past.As a lawyer, Lauren brings an informed perspective of the legal system and the ways power can be used to protect those who already have influence. These themes are woven naturally into the story, adding depth and relevance, without overwhelming the mystery.

With its sharp humour, vivid setting and believable characters, Neighbourhood Watch is an engaging crime novel. If you enjoy contemporary crime fiction that combines suspense with insight into relationships and social issues, this book is for you. Before turning to fiction, Lauren worked as a lawyer, diplomat, actor, arts journalist and museum communications manager. This is her first novel.

Reviewer: Andrea Molloy

Simon & Schuster