Newly arrived fiction from Aotearoa New Zealand
Girl of the Mountains by Trish McCormack
In 1946, aspiring mountain guide Stella finds freedom in New Zealand's Southern Alps with mentor Philip and returned soldier Jim, until tragedy strikes. Decades later, in 2019, journalist Kath's disappearance and her mother's deathbed confession prompt her daughters, Robin and Helen, to investigate. Their search unearths the intertwined lives of Stella, Philip, and Jim, revealing a devastating family secret. Inspired by pioneering New Zealand women mountain guides, McCormack deftly blends history, mystery and dark family secrets.
Dan Calder, an ex-UK cop with undercover expertise, tackles a seemingly routine case one scorching summer's day, pleased to escape an increasingly messy domestic situation. Stuck in a surveillance van with his favorite tunes, he's oblivious to how this "run-of-the-mill" job will shatter his world and forge his destiny. Will appeal to those who enjoy the technical side of police procedurals.
The Cryptic Clue by Amanda Hampson
Sydney, 1966. The Opera House is under construction and the tea ladies of rag-trade district are back solving crimes and chasing treasure. With their jobs and livelihoods under threat from automation, Hazel, Betty and Irene help the police with another case when a terrorist threatens the building of the Opera House. A cosy romp full of mystery, twists and turns, and cake that will appeal to reads of Richard Osman.
Zelas brings her experience as a psychiatrist and psychotherapist to this book as child advocacy lawyer Rebecca Eaton navigates complex surrogacy and child endangerment cases in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Exploring modern family makeups, legal and ethical dilemmas, and the challenges of protecting children within a complex legal system while intertwining Rebecca's personal and professional life, this is a nuanced and thought-provoking read very much set the real world.
Florence, 1539 is a dangerous place as Cesare Aldo knows all too well. Back in the Florentine police force after a period of exile, he's soon back into the action as a gruesome murder plays out under the statue of David. Aldo is soon caught up in the tangled and fraught politics of the city state where he at the mercy of a vengeful boss and the powerful Medici clan, while juggling his own secret life. Bishop deftly blends a historic thriller with modern day pacing while lushly portraying the city of Florence.
Read Bishop's award winning series starting with City of Vengeance.
James Ballard is a recently widowed medical editor and single father, tasked with maintaining the integrity of the "Royal London Journal of Medicine." Set against the backdrop of a volatile city on the brink of collapse, James navigates his grief while dealing with the pressures of his job and the challenges of raising his infant daughter. A darkly comedic and poignant novel that blends workplace satire with themes of grief, urban decay, and social unrest.
Leave the Girls Behind by Jacqueline Bublitz
Haunted by her childhood friend's murder, Ruth-Ann Baker suspects the convicted killer had an accomplice. When another girl vanishes, Ruth's obsession reignites, sending her on a global quest. Connecting three women linked to the killer, she races to uncover a dark secret and stop a predator before they strike again. Leave the Girls Behind is the sequel to Bublitz's wildly successful Before You Knew My Name.
Wild, Wild Women by Janis Freegard
These stories pulse with wit and verve, showcasing fierce women who, despite their occasional missteps, offer a wildly entertaining journey. A host of vibrant characters celebrate all things female, making it the perfect read for everyone, regardless of gender identity (even those who deny their inner fish!).
