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Traffic Warden Mysteries #1
Ticket Out
It’s the summer of 1963 and Gabriella Farnsworth is a newly-minted London traffic warden. She’s used to temper tantrums, swearing, and threats, but finding a dead body is an entirely new low. She isn’t interested in getting more involved than she already is in the investigation into the man she found’s death, but when, a few days later, she stumbles over a second body lying feet away from where she found the first, she can’t avoid it. She knows the streets of her route, knows the people on them, but she is absolutely astonished when New Scotland Yard discovers the art gallery near where she found the bodies is a front for mixing up a new psychedelic drug. Suddenly, the reason for the killings starts to make sense, but what neither she nor the New Scotland Yard detective assigned to the case understand is that the killer’s agenda is more complex than a drug turf war, and by the time Gabriella works it out, it just might be too late . . .
256 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2023
About the author
Michelle Diener
64 books1,945 followersMichelle Diener is a bestselling, award-winning author of historical fiction, science fiction and fantasy. Having worked in publishing and IT, she's now very happy crafting new worlds and interesting characters.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
October 6, 2023
Really good and different!!!!
I have been reading Michelle Diener since 2016 when I stumbled over her Dark Horse series which I devoured and can only recommend and lately I was blown away by The Turncoat King.
I really enjoy her writing, and she is one of only a few authors whose newsletter I'm currently getting.
In her last newsletter she mentioned that she had a new release out, one that didn't instantly made me want to read it - it sounded like something I might or might not like. But honestly I shouldn't have worried.
It was different. Definitely different. But a GOOD different!!!
A mystery, set in London 1963 and the heroine is a traffic warden, a meter maid originally from Australia on a personal quest in London. I really enjoyed the British vibe, her Australian backstory, and the Jamaican community she was somehow part of. The supporting characters were endearing and very enjoyable. Characters that will be remembered.
Of course there was a mystery, and a handsome Welsh hero and a very slow slow slow burn romance. But since the next book is probably about the same couple I don't mind one bit. I'm really looking forward to it.
So overall I was pleasantly surprised and would consider it a high 3 star, almost 4 stars (needed more romance ♡). It's a story I will remember thanks to a very enjoyable and different story.
I have been reading Michelle Diener since 2016 when I stumbled over her Dark Horse series which I devoured and can only recommend and lately I was blown away by The Turncoat King.
I really enjoy her writing, and she is one of only a few authors whose newsletter I'm currently getting.
In her last newsletter she mentioned that she had a new release out, one that didn't instantly made me want to read it - it sounded like something I might or might not like. But honestly I shouldn't have worried.
It was different. Definitely different. But a GOOD different!!!
A mystery, set in London 1963 and the heroine is a traffic warden, a meter maid originally from Australia on a personal quest in London. I really enjoyed the British vibe, her Australian backstory, and the Jamaican community she was somehow part of. The supporting characters were endearing and very enjoyable. Characters that will be remembered.
Of course there was a mystery, and a handsome Welsh hero and a very slow slow slow burn romance. But since the next book is probably about the same couple I don't mind one bit. I'm really looking forward to it.
So overall I was pleasantly surprised and would consider it a high 3 star, almost 4 stars (needed more romance ♡). It's a story I will remember thanks to a very enjoyable and different story.
January 23, 2025
Reread 10/23/25:
I just purchased the newly released audiobook version of the second book in this terrific series a few days ago. Before listening to it, I decided to re-listen to the audiobook of this wonderful first novel. I loved it just as much the second time. The story itself is great, and the narrator, Katherine Littrell, is fantastic.
Review from 1/19/25:
5 stars
Exciting, dual-POV, police procedural with an intrepid, Australian FMC, set in London in 1963
Gabriella Farnsworth is an Australian woman who has come to London to find out what became of her father, who visited London 16 years ago and never returned home. Her mother is a devout Catholic, who cannot wed the man she loves, a fellow Catholic, unless it is concretely proven that her husband is dead, so that a Catholic priest will perform the marriage ceremony. Under civil law, Gabriella's father could have been declared legally dead years ago, and her mother could have been married in a civil ceremony. But her mother is adamantly against any other way of being married except by a priest.
While Gabriella is trying to track down information about her father, she must support herself, but though she is an outstanding baker, because her mother owns a bakery, and she has worked there most of her life, she could not find an opening for a job as a baker in London. So, in order to earn a paycheck, Gabriella has accepted a job as a traffic warden, which in that era in the USA would have been called a "meter maid," but in the current day and age, is called a "parking enforcement officer."
In the course of her duties, Gabriella stumbles upon two dead bodies within a week's time, which sets off a horrifying train of events that puts her life in mortal danger and throws her continually in the path of handsome, Welsh (the accepted spelling of that word in that era in England) Detective Sergeant James Archer of Scotland Yard, who is officially assigned to solving these interconnected homicides.
I am not typically a fan of police-procedural novels, though I have watched plenty of different police-procedural TV shows over the years. For me personally, in order to get caught up in this type of TV show, there has to be a dynamic MC as well as an interesting plot twist, above and beyond the homicides that the MC helps to solve. Fortunately, both of these crucial elements strongly exist within this novel. Gabriella is definitely a "kick-ass" FMC, and the twist of the story's being set in 1963 London is quite intriguing. There is also the added bonus of a terrific romance subplot. Unlike TV shows, which can go on for years, and in which you can never feel it is worthwhile getting attached to a romantic subplot, because the MC is always going to break up with whoever they are temporarily involved with, I have no such concerns with this series. I know that both because I am a huge fan of Michelle Diener, who is outstanding at writing romance, and it is made clear that we have both an FMC and an MMC in this story, because we are not limited to a single POV, which is typical of murder-mystery series. Instead, we are allowed to experience this story through the third-person POV of both Gabriella and James, similar to how mainstream romance novels are narrated.
Speaking as a longtime, jaded romance fan, I am happy to report that I greatly enjoyed the very well done romance between Gabriella and James. It is slow burn, with nothing more than a kiss at the end of this novel, because this is the first book in a series, and the romance will evolve across several books before it reaches an HEA. No specific age is provided for either Gabriella or James but, based on their backstory within the novel, I presume that she is in her mid-twenties and he is in his early thirties. I liked both of them very much. They are equally courageous, compassionate, and honorable, with plenty of emotional and sensual chemistry between them.
In terms of the primary, police-procedural murder mystery, I found it to be quite enthralling. The Big Bad is extremely scary, and there are multiple high-octane, action scenes, in which Gabriella is consistently an intrepid, proactive FMC.
There is another fabulous element of this story that I greatly enjoyed: there are many authentically portrayed, Black, Caribbean characters, all of whom strongly contribute to the emotional appeal of this novel.
MD recently ran a special and gave away the Kindle version of this book for free on Amazon as a promotion for the fact that she is going to release a second novel in this series within the next few months. I became so fascinated with the story, and so unwilling to put it down for a minute, I purchased the audiobook version of this novel through the Whispersync reduced price on Audible. The narrator, Katherine Littrell, does an outstanding job with multiple regional and international accents and with both male and female voices.
I just purchased the newly released audiobook version of the second book in this terrific series a few days ago. Before listening to it, I decided to re-listen to the audiobook of this wonderful first novel. I loved it just as much the second time. The story itself is great, and the narrator, Katherine Littrell, is fantastic.
Review from 1/19/25:
5 stars
Exciting, dual-POV, police procedural with an intrepid, Australian FMC, set in London in 1963
Gabriella Farnsworth is an Australian woman who has come to London to find out what became of her father, who visited London 16 years ago and never returned home. Her mother is a devout Catholic, who cannot wed the man she loves, a fellow Catholic, unless it is concretely proven that her husband is dead, so that a Catholic priest will perform the marriage ceremony. Under civil law, Gabriella's father could have been declared legally dead years ago, and her mother could have been married in a civil ceremony. But her mother is adamantly against any other way of being married except by a priest.
While Gabriella is trying to track down information about her father, she must support herself, but though she is an outstanding baker, because her mother owns a bakery, and she has worked there most of her life, she could not find an opening for a job as a baker in London. So, in order to earn a paycheck, Gabriella has accepted a job as a traffic warden, which in that era in the USA would have been called a "meter maid," but in the current day and age, is called a "parking enforcement officer."
In the course of her duties, Gabriella stumbles upon two dead bodies within a week's time, which sets off a horrifying train of events that puts her life in mortal danger and throws her continually in the path of handsome, Welsh (the accepted spelling of that word in that era in England) Detective Sergeant James Archer of Scotland Yard, who is officially assigned to solving these interconnected homicides.
I am not typically a fan of police-procedural novels, though I have watched plenty of different police-procedural TV shows over the years. For me personally, in order to get caught up in this type of TV show, there has to be a dynamic MC as well as an interesting plot twist, above and beyond the homicides that the MC helps to solve. Fortunately, both of these crucial elements strongly exist within this novel. Gabriella is definitely a "kick-ass" FMC, and the twist of the story's being set in 1963 London is quite intriguing. There is also the added bonus of a terrific romance subplot. Unlike TV shows, which can go on for years, and in which you can never feel it is worthwhile getting attached to a romantic subplot, because the MC is always going to break up with whoever they are temporarily involved with, I have no such concerns with this series. I know that both because I am a huge fan of Michelle Diener, who is outstanding at writing romance, and it is made clear that we have both an FMC and an MMC in this story, because we are not limited to a single POV, which is typical of murder-mystery series. Instead, we are allowed to experience this story through the third-person POV of both Gabriella and James, similar to how mainstream romance novels are narrated.
Speaking as a longtime, jaded romance fan, I am happy to report that I greatly enjoyed the very well done romance between Gabriella and James. It is slow burn, with nothing more than a kiss at the end of this novel, because this is the first book in a series, and the romance will evolve across several books before it reaches an HEA. No specific age is provided for either Gabriella or James but, based on their backstory within the novel, I presume that she is in her mid-twenties and he is in his early thirties. I liked both of them very much. They are equally courageous, compassionate, and honorable, with plenty of emotional and sensual chemistry between them.
In terms of the primary, police-procedural murder mystery, I found it to be quite enthralling. The Big Bad is extremely scary, and there are multiple high-octane, action scenes, in which Gabriella is consistently an intrepid, proactive FMC.
There is another fabulous element of this story that I greatly enjoyed: there are many authentically portrayed, Black, Caribbean characters, all of whom strongly contribute to the emotional appeal of this novel.
MD recently ran a special and gave away the Kindle version of this book for free on Amazon as a promotion for the fact that she is going to release a second novel in this series within the next few months. I became so fascinated with the story, and so unwilling to put it down for a minute, I purchased the audiobook version of this novel through the Whispersync reduced price on Audible. The narrator, Katherine Littrell, does an outstanding job with multiple regional and international accents and with both male and female voices.
August 22, 2023
Diener utilizes gritty 60’s London as intriguing backdrop to new mystery series
Confession: True Crime is not my favorite genre. It might be my least favorite genre, but despite my squeamishness at all the murdering going on, Diener delivers a solid mystery yarn built over a long-game romance.
When I say “long-game romance,” I mean this is not a standalone series featuring a new protagonist couple each book. Ticket Out barely scratches the surface on the brewing romance between the love interests. However, it wouldn’t be a Michelle Diener novel if it didn’t feature a ‘I will save myself, thank you very much’ leading lady and the gent who finds that sexy.
Confession: True Crime is not my favorite genre. It might be my least favorite genre, but despite my squeamishness at all the murdering going on, Diener delivers a solid mystery yarn built over a long-game romance.
When I say “long-game romance,” I mean this is not a standalone series featuring a new protagonist couple each book. Ticket Out barely scratches the surface on the brewing romance between the love interests. However, it wouldn’t be a Michelle Diener novel if it didn’t feature a ‘I will save myself, thank you very much’ leading lady and the gent who finds that sexy.
January 27, 2025
A fun little mystery. I do think Ms. Diener’s talents lie most assuredly in the Sci-Fi and Fantasy realm, however. That’s where she shines as one of the very best in the business.
This mystery, set in 1960s England, while cute and fun, didn’t grab me and make me hold on like her other work does. Partly because I’m not really into the era it is set in and partly because it uses 1960’s British middle-class slang a LOT and unless one is British (or Australian maybe?) it is near impossible to know what the words are half the time (see notes for a couple of examples)!
This mystery, set in 1960s England, while cute and fun, didn’t grab me and make me hold on like her other work does. Partly because I’m not really into the era it is set in and partly because it uses 1960’s British middle-class slang a LOT and unless one is British (or Australian maybe?) it is near impossible to know what the words are half the time (see notes for a couple of examples)!
August 31, 2023
Very different and all the better for it ! A young woman recently arrived in England is searching for her father but to make ends meet she’s working as a traffic warden. Gabriella has had to get used to the occasional abuse and foul language but when she finds one very rude driver dead on her route it brings her attention that is deadly !
I enjoyed this mystery although the ending was impossible to guess . Set in the so called swinging sixties I was amazed to realise how different police procedures were . I’m of a generation used to phone access whenever I want so the way these characters have to search out public phone boxes or even the odd business that has one truly gave me pause at times . How on earth did criminals get caught ? This is just the beginning of Gabriella’s adventures with a slowly developing romance and interesting support characters and yes I recommend it .
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
I enjoyed this mystery although the ending was impossible to guess . Set in the so called swinging sixties I was amazed to realise how different police procedures were . I’m of a generation used to phone access whenever I want so the way these characters have to search out public phone boxes or even the odd business that has one truly gave me pause at times . How on earth did criminals get caught ? This is just the beginning of Gabriella’s adventures with a slowly developing romance and interesting support characters and yes I recommend it .
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
September 8, 2023
It's the summer of 1963, London. Gabriella Farnsworth has moved from Melbourne to London with the hope to track down her missing father and is now working as a traffic warden. Giving out parking tickets isn't the most thankful job but enjoys getting to know London. That is, until she starts finding dead bodies. Detective Sergeant James Archer from New Scotland Yard gets assigned to the case and instantly feels protective over Gabriella. But make no mistake, Gabriella knows her own mind and is equally protective about her neighbours, which makes her stand out even more. And before she knows it she has caught the attention of the killer.
Ticket Out was a great murder mystery with a slowburn romance and a whole lot of found family vibes, which I really enjoyed. I loved that it was set in the early 1960's, and although I'm a 90's kid, the descriptions really brought me to that era with the clothes, go-go dancing, LSD being a new and legal drug. It was the perfect era to set this story in.
The story is divided into chapters set in Gabriella's point of view and chapters set in James' point of view. If you know me even a little bit then you know I love dual POVs so this was perfect to me. I really liked both characters and how they slowly started getting feelings for each other. They had some really great chemistry together. The romance is more on the background but I do love a good slow burn and Michelle Diener is very good at them.
The murdery mystery itself was also very well-written. There were a lot of twists that I hadn't seen coming and those only made me want to read the book faster. I loved that Gabriella was always the first to help other people, even if she didn't know them very well, even if it brought more trouble to her. I know that I couldn't be as courageous as she has been in this book because wow, she goes through some heavy things.
I already know that in 2024 the second book in the series is going to be released and I'm already very excited for it. I can't wait to read more about Gabriella, James and all the secondary characters to see where the author is going to take their stories next. I'm sure it's going to be equally as thrilling as Ticket Out!
Ticket Out was a great murder mystery with a slowburn romance and a whole lot of found family vibes, which I really enjoyed. I loved that it was set in the early 1960's, and although I'm a 90's kid, the descriptions really brought me to that era with the clothes, go-go dancing, LSD being a new and legal drug. It was the perfect era to set this story in.
The story is divided into chapters set in Gabriella's point of view and chapters set in James' point of view. If you know me even a little bit then you know I love dual POVs so this was perfect to me. I really liked both characters and how they slowly started getting feelings for each other. They had some really great chemistry together. The romance is more on the background but I do love a good slow burn and Michelle Diener is very good at them.
The murdery mystery itself was also very well-written. There were a lot of twists that I hadn't seen coming and those only made me want to read the book faster. I loved that Gabriella was always the first to help other people, even if she didn't know them very well, even if it brought more trouble to her. I know that I couldn't be as courageous as she has been in this book because wow, she goes through some heavy things.
I already know that in 2024 the second book in the series is going to be released and I'm already very excited for it. I can't wait to read more about Gabriella, James and all the secondary characters to see where the author is going to take their stories next. I'm sure it's going to be equally as thrilling as Ticket Out!
May 18, 2024
This was a cute mystery set in 1960s London, which removed all the modern technology and allowed the FMC to be oddly spunky. This means that the woman doesn't need to be rescued, only assisted when out-numbered. Lots of side plots to provide appropriate distractions, and settings for future stories. The romance is awkward given the maturity of the characters, but provides extra motivation for everyone involved.
Not my preferred genre, but I'll read these when I'm looking for a change-up.
Not my preferred genre, but I'll read these when I'm looking for a change-up.
September 25, 2023
Reread in 2025 and it still lives up to my previous four star rating. Decent mystery, top notch storytelling, and a sweet hint of romance made this one of my faves of MD.
August 30, 2023
Ticket Out was at turns charming and thrilling and sometimes both at the same time.
Gabriella has come all the way from Melbourne to London in 1963, taking work as a traffic warden to support herself as she searches for a missing family member. While angry recipients of her tickets are expected, finding dead bodies was not. She's shaken and begins to imagine she is being followed. DS Archer, the detective assigned to the case, is concerned for her safety, and not without reason.
This is a thriller, crossed with a cozy mystery, with a dash of romance and a side of historical fiction--imagine being in peril and not being able to pull out your phone to call for help! Ms. Diener is a deft hand at creating likeable, relatable characters who find themselves in believable unbelievable situations. The plot rumbles and then roars to a thrilling conclusion that solves the mystery but leaves plenty of mysteries for future stories about the traffic warden to explore. Clear time in your schedule before you pick this up, because it's hard to put down!
(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review)
Gabriella has come all the way from Melbourne to London in 1963, taking work as a traffic warden to support herself as she searches for a missing family member. While angry recipients of her tickets are expected, finding dead bodies was not. She's shaken and begins to imagine she is being followed. DS Archer, the detective assigned to the case, is concerned for her safety, and not without reason.
This is a thriller, crossed with a cozy mystery, with a dash of romance and a side of historical fiction--imagine being in peril and not being able to pull out your phone to call for help! Ms. Diener is a deft hand at creating likeable, relatable characters who find themselves in believable unbelievable situations. The plot rumbles and then roars to a thrilling conclusion that solves the mystery but leaves plenty of mysteries for future stories about the traffic warden to explore. Clear time in your schedule before you pick this up, because it's hard to put down!
(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review)
May 28, 2025
A very enjoyable and well plotted murder mystery set in early 1960's London. (I had to make up a pop/rock 'British Invasion' era playlist to accompany the story.) The protagonist is a smart, practical, Aussie of Italian extraction who loves to bake, but took the best job available as a "Traffic Warden", aka, beat cop handing out parking violations. After finding two murders she gets caught up in the investigations and gets to use her instincts, intelligence and ability to connect with people to help solve the crimes.
Complex ancillary characters are introduced who are important to the current story, but are clearly going to be followed in later books as well. The world building comes across as realistic and layered, with insights into the complexity of a large metropolitan city and the diversity of population living there. It was interesting to realize that this was a city with the scars and destruction of WWII still visible in many places, but already on the forefront of the early rock and roll scene, and a place where immigrants from many different countries established their own communities.
Complex ancillary characters are introduced who are important to the current story, but are clearly going to be followed in later books as well. The world building comes across as realistic and layered, with insights into the complexity of a large metropolitan city and the diversity of population living there. It was interesting to realize that this was a city with the scars and destruction of WWII still visible in many places, but already on the forefront of the early rock and roll scene, and a place where immigrants from many different countries established their own communities.
September 13, 2023
3.5 stars
That was a romp. I'm never super in love with this author's stories, but so far, I enjoyed reading everything I've tried by her. I have a folder on my kindle with 13 of her scifi stories downloaded and ready for a re-read. I have read them all once already.
This book is a thriller/mystery set in 1963 in London. I'm not into thrillers in general, but I liked this story. The pace is quick, the villain terrifying, and the protagonists nice, if a little amorphous. I couldn't quite get the sense of either of them.
James Archer is a police detective. Gabriella Farnsworth is a traffic warden. She is caught in a murder case he is investigating, and during the investigation, they both feel irresistible attraction towards each other. It didn't go further than the first kiss in the end, but this book is the first in the series. I hope Diener will delve deeper into their personalities and their relationship in the next installment. I'll definitely read it when in comes out next year.
What is most interesting in this story is the realization how far the technology of crime solving advanced in the 60 years since the time frame of this book. The Met seemed hamstrung in the 1960s. No cell phones, no cameras on every corner of London, and not much in the way of forensic science either. The police officers were not even armed, except for their truncheons. Yikes. I would definitely want my police to go armed against dangerous criminals.
Overall: it was an engaging tale, swift and light despite all the murders.
That was a romp. I'm never super in love with this author's stories, but so far, I enjoyed reading everything I've tried by her. I have a folder on my kindle with 13 of her scifi stories downloaded and ready for a re-read. I have read them all once already.
This book is a thriller/mystery set in 1963 in London. I'm not into thrillers in general, but I liked this story. The pace is quick, the villain terrifying, and the protagonists nice, if a little amorphous. I couldn't quite get the sense of either of them.
James Archer is a police detective. Gabriella Farnsworth is a traffic warden. She is caught in a murder case he is investigating, and during the investigation, they both feel irresistible attraction towards each other. It didn't go further than the first kiss in the end, but this book is the first in the series. I hope Diener will delve deeper into their personalities and their relationship in the next installment. I'll definitely read it when in comes out next year.
What is most interesting in this story is the realization how far the technology of crime solving advanced in the 60 years since the time frame of this book. The Met seemed hamstrung in the 1960s. No cell phones, no cameras on every corner of London, and not much in the way of forensic science either. The police officers were not even armed, except for their truncheons. Yikes. I would definitely want my police to go armed against dangerous criminals.
Overall: it was an engaging tale, swift and light despite all the murders.
August 18, 2023
Exciting new story!
This one is set in a seemingly modern world but without technology - 60 years ago.
I'm not familiar with cultural differences of the time, especially in UK, so it's even more interesting for me to read something that is set in that period.
Gabriella has arrived to London from Melbourne to find out about her father, and got wrapped in mystery that seems to follow Gabriella around. But she is very sensible woman that has strong instincts and actually uses them to keep herself safe from dangerous situation. I love that side of hers.
The story is written with dual POV which always adds to the story without spoiling anything. It's rare, which is great!
I also loved the dynamics between Gabriella and James, they are very sweet together. Looking forward for them to get to know each other better.
I cannot wait see what would happen next!
This one is set in a seemingly modern world but without technology - 60 years ago.
I'm not familiar with cultural differences of the time, especially in UK, so it's even more interesting for me to read something that is set in that period.
Gabriella has arrived to London from Melbourne to find out about her father, and got wrapped in mystery that seems to follow Gabriella around. But she is very sensible woman that has strong instincts and actually uses them to keep herself safe from dangerous situation. I love that side of hers.
The story is written with dual POV which always adds to the story without spoiling anything. It's rare, which is great!
I also loved the dynamics between Gabriella and James, they are very sweet together. Looking forward for them to get to know each other better.
I cannot wait see what would happen next!
August 26, 2023
Not as thrilled as others. There is no doubt the author is an amazing writer. She creates the time and place in my mind, enriching it as she goes. You feel like you're in 60's London and the environment at the time. That rates a 5. Unfortunately, I found the story rather boring. There was a lot of writing for not much progress. I rate the storyline a 3.
August 31, 2023
What a wonderfully entertaining and well researched novel! I loved this mystery. It was exciting and captured my interest from the very beginning.
I received an early copy and am so glad I signed up for it because it is such a pleasure to write this review.
It really brought back memories to me of Australia in the 1960s - Archbishop Mannix, Bob Santamaria and the Democratic Labour Party.
I received an early copy and am so glad I signed up for it because it is such a pleasure to write this review.
It really brought back memories to me of Australia in the 1960s - Archbishop Mannix, Bob Santamaria and the Democratic Labour Party.
September 11, 2023
3.5 to 4? I may have to sit on it. I always find the first book in a mystery series the least good. Not that this one was bad, more that a lot of it is spent setting up the cast of characters, the romance, etc. The second one is always better. I look forward to it!
This was an enjoyable read, though. I really like Gabriella. Her detective, too.
This was an enjoyable read, though. I really like Gabriella. Her detective, too.
August 22, 2023
4.5 STARS
As a traffic warden in London the summer of 1963, Gabriella Farnsworth learns she is not the most popular person on the streets writing tickets for vehicle parking violations. Having grown up in Australia and only recently started her job, Gabriella has a lot to learn about her new city and its environs. While on her route one early morning, Gabriella finds a body in an illegally parked van. She has dealt with that particular miscreant before so the police are very interested in enlisting her help. Although she had hoped not to be any more involved, Gabriella discovers a second victim drawing her further into criminal elements of London.
Detective Sargent James Archer gets assigned the case as his boss seems to have other agenda besides police work at New Scotland Yard. As Gabriella continues her daily rounds after having given her statement to DS Archer, she begins to realize something sinister is going on at the art gallery where the van was parked. It seems the drugs hitting the streets of London, including the not yet illegal LSD, are causing a sort of turf war with the purveyors of heroin.
Gabriella lives in Notting Hill where her Trinidadian elderly neighbor and his family have made her part of their extended family. Tensions are still high between races and cultures adding another level of strain to the happenings on her route. The more time she spends with DS Archer, the stronger their attraction grows; however, since she is part of a police inquiry, so any relationship must stay official. Gabriella gets quite deep into the action putting herself at risk, more than once, when helping to solve the escalating crimes. Gabriella also has a mystery of her own to solve which is what brought her to London.
First in a new series called the Traffic Warden Mysteries, readers of police procedurals and mysteries will enjoy this one set in the groovy, psychedelic years of London. Gabrella’s job puts her in a good position to have eyes on the city being a valuable asset to New Scotland Yard in general, and DS Archer in particular on a professional and possibly personal front. Ms. Diener's stories are always a pleasure to read; I look forward to the next book to come.
As a traffic warden in London the summer of 1963, Gabriella Farnsworth learns she is not the most popular person on the streets writing tickets for vehicle parking violations. Having grown up in Australia and only recently started her job, Gabriella has a lot to learn about her new city and its environs. While on her route one early morning, Gabriella finds a body in an illegally parked van. She has dealt with that particular miscreant before so the police are very interested in enlisting her help. Although she had hoped not to be any more involved, Gabriella discovers a second victim drawing her further into criminal elements of London.
Detective Sargent James Archer gets assigned the case as his boss seems to have other agenda besides police work at New Scotland Yard. As Gabriella continues her daily rounds after having given her statement to DS Archer, she begins to realize something sinister is going on at the art gallery where the van was parked. It seems the drugs hitting the streets of London, including the not yet illegal LSD, are causing a sort of turf war with the purveyors of heroin.
Gabriella lives in Notting Hill where her Trinidadian elderly neighbor and his family have made her part of their extended family. Tensions are still high between races and cultures adding another level of strain to the happenings on her route. The more time she spends with DS Archer, the stronger their attraction grows; however, since she is part of a police inquiry, so any relationship must stay official. Gabriella gets quite deep into the action putting herself at risk, more than once, when helping to solve the escalating crimes. Gabriella also has a mystery of her own to solve which is what brought her to London.
First in a new series called the Traffic Warden Mysteries, readers of police procedurals and mysteries will enjoy this one set in the groovy, psychedelic years of London. Gabrella’s job puts her in a good position to have eyes on the city being a valuable asset to New Scotland Yard in general, and DS Archer in particular on a professional and possibly personal front. Ms. Diener's stories are always a pleasure to read; I look forward to the next book to come.
October 3, 2023
Gabriella Farnsworth is an Australian immigrant, who has come to London England in 1963 to search for her father. She gets a job as a traffic warden, encouraging people to obey the traffic laws by writing tickets. Some people seem to take offense when she tickets them. Anger, threats and intimidation are a guarantee on her job. Gabriella calmly pushes back and onward. Finding a dead body on her route, while unexpected and shocking, does not deter her from finishing her rounds. Hoping she is one and done with dead bodies, Gabriella is not happy to find a second body on another day.
Welshman James Archer is the Scotland Yard Detective Sergeant on the case. James and Gabriella will end up working together to solve this mystery. What seems to be a possibly drug-rated crime evolves into something bigger. More people get involved (more criminals) and the danger increases. I could never have anticipated the ending even ¾ of the way through the book.
There is a slow burn romance that really just gets started in this first of a new series. Gabriella and James a tentative at first and, dare I say, cute together.
The story takes place in a big city with small neighborhoods where people help each other. In a time before cell phones, the neighborhood had an important role. The London setting is also colored with racial tensions, shady dealings, and drugs. This setting is rich with possible future adventures for Traffic Warden Farnsworth. After reading the author’s science fiction, I was a little hesitant about this shift in genre. In Ticket Out, Gabriella Farnsworth has charmed me though, making me quite pleased that Ms. Diener as launched this new series!
Many thanks to the author who provided a copy of her book. My review is my honest opinion.
Welshman James Archer is the Scotland Yard Detective Sergeant on the case. James and Gabriella will end up working together to solve this mystery. What seems to be a possibly drug-rated crime evolves into something bigger. More people get involved (more criminals) and the danger increases. I could never have anticipated the ending even ¾ of the way through the book.
There is a slow burn romance that really just gets started in this first of a new series. Gabriella and James a tentative at first and, dare I say, cute together.
The story takes place in a big city with small neighborhoods where people help each other. In a time before cell phones, the neighborhood had an important role. The London setting is also colored with racial tensions, shady dealings, and drugs. This setting is rich with possible future adventures for Traffic Warden Farnsworth. After reading the author’s science fiction, I was a little hesitant about this shift in genre. In Ticket Out, Gabriella Farnsworth has charmed me though, making me quite pleased that Ms. Diener as launched this new series!
Many thanks to the author who provided a copy of her book. My review is my honest opinion.
July 18, 2025
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is the first book in the Traffic Warden series. The first book was offered free as a way to appeal to new readers. I plan to read the second book.
Gabriella is in London hoping to find her father. She was raised in Australia and her father left for the UK 14 years prior and never returned. Her mother hopes to get married, so Gabriella is trying to track him down in order to get closure. While she is there, she is hired as a traffic warden and the book opens with her finding a dead body in a car as she works her shift.
She meets James, who is assigned to investigate the case. The story paints the picture of the world in which Gabriella lives, including her friendly, platonic relationship with an older man in her building. His relative is involved in what appears to be a shady business and you are not sure how that ties into the main story or if it does.
Gabriella is bright and quick on her feet as she notices much of what goes on around her. She is kind and brave as well as quick to help out fearlessly in dangerous situations. I really liked her.
James is quickly attracted to Gabriella and works the mystery both with her and separately with the police. He is from Wales and knows that his direct supervisor is lazy or on the take. It makes the story more complex as you are not sure of the motives of his boss.
The story alternates between James and Gabriella’s point of view, though most of it is told from Gabriella’s POV. The pace of the story is good. The secondary characters are well drawn.
I have enjoyed other books by Diener in the past and will continue to read her books. What happened to her father is not part of his book but will likely be addressed in a future book.
This book is the first book in the Traffic Warden series. The first book was offered free as a way to appeal to new readers. I plan to read the second book.
Gabriella is in London hoping to find her father. She was raised in Australia and her father left for the UK 14 years prior and never returned. Her mother hopes to get married, so Gabriella is trying to track him down in order to get closure. While she is there, she is hired as a traffic warden and the book opens with her finding a dead body in a car as she works her shift.
She meets James, who is assigned to investigate the case. The story paints the picture of the world in which Gabriella lives, including her friendly, platonic relationship with an older man in her building. His relative is involved in what appears to be a shady business and you are not sure how that ties into the main story or if it does.
Gabriella is bright and quick on her feet as she notices much of what goes on around her. She is kind and brave as well as quick to help out fearlessly in dangerous situations. I really liked her.
James is quickly attracted to Gabriella and works the mystery both with her and separately with the police. He is from Wales and knows that his direct supervisor is lazy or on the take. It makes the story more complex as you are not sure of the motives of his boss.
The story alternates between James and Gabriella’s point of view, though most of it is told from Gabriella’s POV. The pace of the story is good. The secondary characters are well drawn.
I have enjoyed other books by Diener in the past and will continue to read her books. What happened to her father is not part of his book but will likely be addressed in a future book.
August 29, 2023
Gabriella’s a magnet for murder
Aussie Gabriella Farnsworth is in London looking for the father who abandoned her and her mom years ago. She has to work and that means she is a traffic warden (gives out parking tickets). Gabby is a wonderful friendly bubbly person who has made many friends and they are spicy characters. Her route takes her through a questionable neighborhood and she soon finds her first dead guy. Detective Sergeant Archer works at the New Scotland Yard and is called in on the murder where he first meets the irresistible Gabby. As the missing persons and murders then assaults pile up Gabriella seems to be somehow in the middle. Tiny Gabriella is not a wallflower. She sees an attack, she goes to the rescue, she sees someone injured she pulls out the first aid kit and makes the repairs. You can count on this brave very smart lady. Archer is very impressed and very attracted to her and when these cases finally wrap up he’s going to win her heart.
The story takes place in the rockin’ 1960’s best-years-ever for music and fashion! BUT… missing is the convenience of cell phones and computers. The new and legal drug called LSD has just popped up in the area and the murders and mayhem seem to center on the distribution of the LSD. This is a “who done it” that really keeps you interested. I really loved the fascinating and diverse characters. I wish there was more heat between Gabriella and Archer but otherwise, it was a really good read. I received an advanced copy of this story from Bookfunnel and these are my thoughts. Linda
Aussie Gabriella Farnsworth is in London looking for the father who abandoned her and her mom years ago. She has to work and that means she is a traffic warden (gives out parking tickets). Gabby is a wonderful friendly bubbly person who has made many friends and they are spicy characters. Her route takes her through a questionable neighborhood and she soon finds her first dead guy. Detective Sergeant Archer works at the New Scotland Yard and is called in on the murder where he first meets the irresistible Gabby. As the missing persons and murders then assaults pile up Gabriella seems to be somehow in the middle. Tiny Gabriella is not a wallflower. She sees an attack, she goes to the rescue, she sees someone injured she pulls out the first aid kit and makes the repairs. You can count on this brave very smart lady. Archer is very impressed and very attracted to her and when these cases finally wrap up he’s going to win her heart.
The story takes place in the rockin’ 1960’s best-years-ever for music and fashion! BUT… missing is the convenience of cell phones and computers. The new and legal drug called LSD has just popped up in the area and the murders and mayhem seem to center on the distribution of the LSD. This is a “who done it” that really keeps you interested. I really loved the fascinating and diverse characters. I wish there was more heat between Gabriella and Archer but otherwise, it was a really good read. I received an advanced copy of this story from Bookfunnel and these are my thoughts. Linda
September 4, 2023
I was first introduced to Michelle Diener through her Regency Mystery series and I'm happy that she has written a new Historical mystery series.
Ticket Out is set in 1963 London, before the swinging sixties really took off.
The novel's main protagonist Gabriella' is an Australian, (of Italian descent) working as a Traffic Warden in London.
From the first chapter she finds a man dead of a violent crime, and by the end of the book it's a race to stay ahead of "Mr Knife", as the danger intensifies and the bodies pile up.
Diener writes smart, intrepid women and a morally strong complex male romantic interest, who aren't intimidated by a resourceful woman.
It will be interesting to see how the relationship develops with DS Archer, and the eclectic mix of acquaintances Gabriella has made.
While there is the main crime to solve, readers are also offered a glance of the underlying mystery thread of Gabriella trying to locate information on her missing father.
Ticket Out reminded me of the TV series, Ms Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries set 60s Melbourne.
Ticket Out should appeal to those who enjoy reading amateur sleuth, historical mysteries and romantic suspense genres.
Ticket Out is set in 1963 London, before the swinging sixties really took off.
The novel's main protagonist Gabriella' is an Australian, (of Italian descent) working as a Traffic Warden in London.
From the first chapter she finds a man dead of a violent crime, and by the end of the book it's a race to stay ahead of "Mr Knife", as the danger intensifies and the bodies pile up.
Diener writes smart, intrepid women and a morally strong complex male romantic interest, who aren't intimidated by a resourceful woman.
It will be interesting to see how the relationship develops with DS Archer, and the eclectic mix of acquaintances Gabriella has made.
While there is the main crime to solve, readers are also offered a glance of the underlying mystery thread of Gabriella trying to locate information on her missing father.
Ticket Out reminded me of the TV series, Ms Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries set 60s Melbourne.
Ticket Out should appeal to those who enjoy reading amateur sleuth, historical mysteries and romantic suspense genres.
January 18, 2025
Well Done, But Quite Violent
This mystery was definitely grittier and more realistic than the cozy reads I usually prefer, but I thought I'd give it a whirl, anyway. It is very well done. The characters are interesting and believable; the story is well-constructed. The romance is low-key; a pot on a long, slow simmer, not a boil. I loved the fact that, although it definitely is not one of those irritating cliffhangers, a mystery with the mystery carefully sets up a premise for the next book. So, even though the violence was really more than I like in a mystery, I did appreciate the book, although I doubt I'll read the next in the series.
TWO MINOR ANACHRONISMS (and only someone such as myself, who was alive and kicking in 1963, would probably know this): go-go boots weren't introduced until 1964, and weren't really a fashion trend for another couple of years (yep, I wore them; got my first pair in 1966!), and the term "Ms.", although the first mention of the title can be traced back as far as 1901, was essentially never used until the introduction of Ms. magazine in 1971. The New York Times refused to use it until 1986! So no, most unlikely that in 1963 a girl was wearing go-go boots or being addressed as Ms!
This mystery was definitely grittier and more realistic than the cozy reads I usually prefer, but I thought I'd give it a whirl, anyway. It is very well done. The characters are interesting and believable; the story is well-constructed. The romance is low-key; a pot on a long, slow simmer, not a boil. I loved the fact that, although it definitely is not one of those irritating cliffhangers, a mystery with the mystery carefully sets up a premise for the next book. So, even though the violence was really more than I like in a mystery, I did appreciate the book, although I doubt I'll read the next in the series.
TWO MINOR ANACHRONISMS (and only someone such as myself, who was alive and kicking in 1963, would probably know this): go-go boots weren't introduced until 1964, and weren't really a fashion trend for another couple of years (yep, I wore them; got my first pair in 1966!), and the term "Ms.", although the first mention of the title can be traced back as far as 1901, was essentially never used until the introduction of Ms. magazine in 1971. The New York Times refused to use it until 1986! So no, most unlikely that in 1963 a girl was wearing go-go boots or being addressed as Ms!
February 17, 2025
Love a good heroine
Being accustomed to Michelle’s sci-fi/fantasy writing, reading a book set in ‘real life’ was a pleasant surprise.
Michelle wove the intricacies and difficulties of migration into this story allowing us to get a feel of a time when there was clearly underlying racism but yet community at the same time.
Gabriella’s ability to bridge the racial divide, not to mention the class division, gives us all the more reason to love this young girl who’s on a journey of her own. I hope we get to learn more about why and how she became so resourceful and feisty - all attributes that she draws on to keep her wits about her whilst being unwittingly dragged into a murder case where she becomes a target. She’s also smart, loving, respectful and genuine so I look forward to following her on the real reason she went to England.
On a side note, one of my most favourite things about Michelle’s writing is the sexual tension she creates for the protagonists but we never lose sight of the plot. Their chemistry is obvious, but doesn’t distract from the storyline, so I hope we get to see more of our young Welshman, too.
Being accustomed to Michelle’s sci-fi/fantasy writing, reading a book set in ‘real life’ was a pleasant surprise.
Michelle wove the intricacies and difficulties of migration into this story allowing us to get a feel of a time when there was clearly underlying racism but yet community at the same time.
Gabriella’s ability to bridge the racial divide, not to mention the class division, gives us all the more reason to love this young girl who’s on a journey of her own. I hope we get to learn more about why and how she became so resourceful and feisty - all attributes that she draws on to keep her wits about her whilst being unwittingly dragged into a murder case where she becomes a target. She’s also smart, loving, respectful and genuine so I look forward to following her on the real reason she went to England.
On a side note, one of my most favourite things about Michelle’s writing is the sexual tension she creates for the protagonists but we never lose sight of the plot. Their chemistry is obvious, but doesn’t distract from the storyline, so I hope we get to see more of our young Welshman, too.
August 22, 2023
Ticket Out is another engaging read from Michelle Diener which draws you in and keeps you interested and involved the whole way through. It is less focussed on romance than I am used from MD but as the start of a mystery series it works better that way. And there is still enough romance to satisfy as you can see it will develop with the series. Instead, the main focus is on finding the killer who is quite determined to snuff out our heroine Gabriella an Australian/Italian working in London as parking officer while in England pursuing a mystery of her own. Gabby stumbles across not one but 2 bodies on her rounds thereby catching the attention of both a killer and James, the detective assigned to the case. I really enjoyed the story and the characters, including Solomon the shady nephew of Gabby’s neighbour and Ruby the potential former (spy?). I would have liked more emphasis on giving a deeper sense of the time period given that I love the 60's.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 20, 2023
Set in 1963, this story features Gabriella Farnsworth, an Australian working as a London traffic warden. She’s become used to fending off irate drivers, swearing and threatening her over tickets, but then it gets worse, she finds a dead body. This leads to meeting a very nice New Scotland Yard detective, and somehow, she just keeps being involved in the murder case, as she witnesses unsavory characters acting suspiciously, finds another dead body, and then fears for her own safety. There is a lot going on, and a deadly killer on the loose, but Gabriella is determined to help solve the case, for her own safety and the safety of everyone else in the area. I really enjoyed the characters in the story, especially young, plucky Gabriella, and the strong, protective detective, James Archer. Since this appears to be the first in a series, I very much look forward to more adventures for these two.
September 3, 2023
Engaging from page 1; a pulse-pounding romantic thriller
Michelle Diener has delivered another brilliant book! I absolutely love this new romantic mystery thriller set in 1960s London. I immediately connected with Gabriella Farnsworth, the Australian traffic warden (meter-reader) making her way in a new city. She is intelligent, cool under pressure, and compassionate. After she finds a dead body on her daily route, the danger and thrills increase. Gabriella and the handsome Welsh Detective James Archer try to stay alive as they try to catch the murderer.
The sensory and real geographic details of London immersed me in the story. I didn’t want to stop reading this marvelous novel. The mystery plot was completed in this book, but I am very intrigued with a subplot that will be continued. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series that will be released next year. The book contains some violence (maybe moderate for a thriller), some drug references, and no more than kissing (for the romantic subplot).
I requested and received a free advanced reading copy, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. I have pre-ordered the ebook as well.
Michelle Diener has delivered another brilliant book! I absolutely love this new romantic mystery thriller set in 1960s London. I immediately connected with Gabriella Farnsworth, the Australian traffic warden (meter-reader) making her way in a new city. She is intelligent, cool under pressure, and compassionate. After she finds a dead body on her daily route, the danger and thrills increase. Gabriella and the handsome Welsh Detective James Archer try to stay alive as they try to catch the murderer.
The sensory and real geographic details of London immersed me in the story. I didn’t want to stop reading this marvelous novel. The mystery plot was completed in this book, but I am very intrigued with a subplot that will be continued. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series that will be released next year. The book contains some violence (maybe moderate for a thriller), some drug references, and no more than kissing (for the romantic subplot).
I requested and received a free advanced reading copy, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. I have pre-ordered the ebook as well.
June 18, 2025
I've been collecting Freebooksey books on my Kindle for the last few years and have been much better at collecting than reading. This was one of those books and it turned out to be a lot of fun. The main character, Gabriella, has come to England in search of clues concerning her father's disappearance many years before and is working as a traffic warden. In the course of her work, she discovers a dead body; the corpses pile up from there. There is a hunky policeman and a slow burn romance, a mad killer, and a lot of endearing souls who we meet along the way to solving the crime.
The narration pulled me in from the first page. The characters were lovely, the plot a mix of really good and completely ridiculous, and the dialogue increasingly unbelievable but after a certain point I didn't care. It all came together with a certain charm of its own. Turn your inner editor off and enjoy the ride.
The narration pulled me in from the first page. The characters were lovely, the plot a mix of really good and completely ridiculous, and the dialogue increasingly unbelievable but after a certain point I didn't care. It all came together with a certain charm of its own. Turn your inner editor off and enjoy the ride.
June 30, 2025
interesting
This isn’t my usual genre, but I’m glad I gave it a second chance.
I’ve previously enjoyed Michelle Diener’s fantasy and science fantasy novels, so when I first picked up Ticket Out, I was subconsciously searching for those familiar elements. Initially, it didn’t align with my expectations, and I found myself uncertain. However, upon a second read, I was able to appreciate it for what it truly is.
Set in post–World War II London, Ticket Out is a historical murder mystery that delves into the complexities of the era. The narrative unfolds with a slow-burn relationship at its core and thoughtfully addresses issues of race relations, adding depth to the storyline. Diener’s portrayal of the time period is immersive, capturing the nuances of a society in transition.
It’s an intriguing departure from her usual work, showcasing her versatility as a writer. I’m looking forward to exploring more in the Traffic Warden series.
This isn’t my usual genre, but I’m glad I gave it a second chance.
I’ve previously enjoyed Michelle Diener’s fantasy and science fantasy novels, so when I first picked up Ticket Out, I was subconsciously searching for those familiar elements. Initially, it didn’t align with my expectations, and I found myself uncertain. However, upon a second read, I was able to appreciate it for what it truly is.
Set in post–World War II London, Ticket Out is a historical murder mystery that delves into the complexities of the era. The narrative unfolds with a slow-burn relationship at its core and thoughtfully addresses issues of race relations, adding depth to the storyline. Diener’s portrayal of the time period is immersive, capturing the nuances of a society in transition.
It’s an intriguing departure from her usual work, showcasing her versatility as a writer. I’m looking forward to exploring more in the Traffic Warden series.
September 14, 2023
"Ticket Out" is the first book in the new series "Traffic Warden Mysteries". The action is set in the '60s and tells the story of a young woman who due to the nature of her job and some unfortunate circumstances discovers two dead bodies along her appointed routes. From here on all hell breaks free as the killer is determined to kill her too. With the help of a police detective, she tries to make sense of the crimes and fights hard for her life. I love this new series that is focused more on crime and mystery than on romance and I hope to read more in the future. Although the chemistry is present between the two main characters, I miss the romance that is present in most of Michelle's books. I can't wait to see how far their relationship will develop. Highly recommend the new series!
September 9, 2023
Murder and mayhem in London in the swinging 60s. Gabriella, meter maid with a secret, must help the handsome Welsh police detective catch the killer before the killer catches them. The plot moves fast, with a nice mix of action and intrigue. Main characters are believable and relatable, but the supporting cast kind of steals the show. A homeless hero, a lady of a certain age with combat ready skills, and the Notting Hill Caribbean community all add spice to the tale. It would have been fun if the author had added more pop culture references, music or iconic clothing. I would like to have seen Gabriella make a little more progress on her real project. I guess I’ll look forward to that in the next book!
December 20, 2024
Ticket Out
The narrative was expertly crafted, with the main characters Gabriella and James being exceptionally well-developed. The supporting characters were intricately woven throughout the storyline, adding depth and nuance to the narrative. The central protagonist, though unsettling, was a well-conceived character that contributed to the immersive world-building of the story. The overall result was an engaging and immersive reading experience. The love story unfolded with a slow, deliberate pace, demonstrating that a well-written narrative can captivate readers without relying on explicit content. I highly recommend Ms. Diener, who is a talented and accomplished author.
The narrative was expertly crafted, with the main characters Gabriella and James being exceptionally well-developed. The supporting characters were intricately woven throughout the storyline, adding depth and nuance to the narrative. The central protagonist, though unsettling, was a well-conceived character that contributed to the immersive world-building of the story. The overall result was an engaging and immersive reading experience. The love story unfolded with a slow, deliberate pace, demonstrating that a well-written narrative can captivate readers without relying on explicit content. I highly recommend Ms. Diener, who is a talented and accomplished author.
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