The Shorthand Sleuth: Transcribing Death

By Carmel Taylor

The compelling story of an entrepreneurial young woman whose shorthand skill takes her into
an untapped niche of forensic phonography.

Post-war Melbourne, Australia 1950s

Phillis Philpot challenges and rejects the roles prescribed for women in 1950s society. Her feminist views and desire for independence underpin her life choices, one of which was to become a top-notch shorthand court reporter for the Supreme Court of Victoria. Phillis's experience as a shorthand writer highlights a possibility when she believes untranscribed or undetected shorthand notes, which may contain vital evidence, are overlooked.

With her intuitive and enquiring mind, Phillis launches her business. At times she simply stumbles across cases. Transcribing a diary of a deceased woman reveals information written about a murder, which upended the stability of a family. Meanwhile, Phillis volunteers to teach shorthand to a group of immigrant women. A missing student and a scratchy shorthand note received in the mail introduce Phillis to a web of deceit. An innocent visit to a secondhand bookshop combined with Phillis's insatiable curiosity launches her into an investigation which cements her reputation as "Phil Philpot, Forensic Phonographer".

When the daily newspapers highlight her successful forays, her business in forensic phonography is propelled into the public awareness. Phillis is confident she has harnessed a previously neglected and potential-laden career opportunity.

Phillis is excited that this is just the beginning.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0DHC3HJWV
• ISBN13: 9798334948358
• Release Date: September 2024
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 284 Pages
• Weight: 0.84 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"