Murder. Theatre. Community secrets.

Journalist Jade Riley hosts a dinner at her parents’ idyllic country property with members of the local amateur theatre society. The next morning, she finds one of her guests dead in a dam.

As Jade investigates, the players tighten their grip on long-held secrets. Grudges and tangled motives emerge, and the past refuses to stay buried.

At the same time, a proposal from her boyfriend forces Jade to consider how much she’s willing to give up for love. An atmospheric, fast-paced mystery, THE MAN IN THE DAM is the third book in Andrea Barton’s Jade Riley Mysteries series.

“A pacy, tight mystery that’s a love letter to Mansfield.” Bella Ellwood-Clayton, author The Swimming Group

“This is fast-paced and skilfully written crime fiction at its best, with an excellent plot featuring murder, community theatre, small town secrets, a marriage proposal and hidden treasure.” – Lisa Darcy/author The Pact

“A great read. The characters are so well drawn and the setting in and around Mansfield is another character. A very fine book with a great plot, a lovely twist and a satisfying ending.” Sarah Bourne, author Exile

“As a magnet attracts iron, Jade Riley attracts murder victims. In Barton’s new novel, The Man in the Dam, her protagonist gets another mystery to solve and does so in Agatha Christie fashion. A fast moving, well structured and well written story.” Mike Paull, author The Head Case

“A well-paced and well-researched read. Barton has captured the dynamics of a small country town along with beautiful descriptions of the natural environment. Jade’s love versus career dilemma kept me guessing as well as the dramatic crime storyline.” Kate Murdoch, author The Orange Grove.

“I was gripped by Jade’s new adventure which begins when she finds a dead body setting off a twisty, fast-paced search for the culprit amongst a group of diverse and engaging dinner party guests.

“Assistance and romance come from her boyfriend but draw personal conflict, too.

“Set in rural Victoria, the history, landscape and wildlife play an important role alongside characters who all have secrets and motives to kill.

“Jade’s every move brings risk to her and the man she loves, making this is a taut, edge-of-the seat experience. I loved it! Bravo, Andrea Barton.” Diane Clarke, author The Photograph.

“A fast-paced mystery sure to keep readers turning pages. You will not want to miss this intriguing story with relatable characters.” Steve Rush, author The Shocking Truth

“A well-paced mystery with plenty of action set in Mansfield, an Australian country town. Jade is a believable, sympathetic protagonist, supported by her boyfriend, Brett, who complements her skills. The underlying tension in their relationship is the emotional heart of the story.” Sue Anderson, editor.

“Kicking off with a gripping opening, this mystery has a strong sense of place and a tight plot involving multiple generations.” Nadine Davidoff, editor