White Lies is based on a true story. It is a tale that has lain hidden in dusty newspaper archives for decades. The story is set in 'God's Own Country' in Walwa, Northeast Victoria, in a picturesque environment of farmland, native bushland, rugged ranges and the iconic Murray River and its sparkling tributaries. The small Upper Murray district is at a crossroads of history; the primary activity of the district, agriculture, is beset by a rabbit plague, an interminable drought and the devastation inflicted by the Black Friday Bushfires. In addition, the dark murmurings of a looming war trigger anxiety in a generation still mourning the loss of close relatives in the 'War to end all Wars'. The serenity of a warm summer evening is shattered by a crash - a fiery car wreck extinguishes the life of Raymond (Dicky) White's devoted wife. It catapults White to the attention of enthusiastic police investigators and newspaper journalists and reignites the local rumour mill with White firmly in focus. Is White the victim of small-town gossip, hounded by misinterpretations of his actions? Or is he a compulsive liar, a cunning, scheming sociopath who manipulates situations and takes advantage of innocents to achieve his ambition of owning his own farm? White's name is linked to several mysterious incidents and deaths, yet his wife is the epitome of a generous and kind-spirited soul.White's plans unravel as the detective's persistent, dedicated investigations unpick his web of lies, utilising innovative forensic techniques and insightful deductions.As the net closes around him, White is left with only one option for escape.This second edition features additional images and an enhanced text.
