Atmospheric Escapist Reads

Fiction to lose yourself in

Words — Karen McMillan, bestselling author
karenm.co.nz | nzbooklovers.co.nz

Islands Ever After and other stories
Majella Cullinane

 

Everything about this book is beautiful – from the colourful and inviting cover, to the 14 exquisitely crafted short stories within the covers. Set in Ireland, Scotland, and New Zealand, and spanning from contemporary to historic settings, the different characters are unforgettable. Perfect reading to dip into, with people searching for connection and belonging, with stories of love and loss, troubles and new beginnings.

 

Quentin Wilson Publishing, RRP $37

Dissection of a Murder
Jo Murray

 

A well-respected judge is dead, and Leila Reynolds is defending the man accused of his murder. The problem is, this is her very first murder case, and she is pitted against her experienced husband, who is prosecuting. It doesn’t help that her client is refusing to talk. This courtroom drama is page-turning and compelling, with a man’s liberty and Leila’s marriage on the line.

 

Pan Macmillan, RRP $38

Icefall
Marie Connolley

 

Criminal psychologist Nellie Prayle is called in to help with two cases that could be connected. A body is found on a melting glacier. When the news is announced, a rich lister is murdered soon after, and things get complicated with a stalker, ex-parolees, and cops with attitude in the mix.  A well-constructed murder mystery, with a compelling central protagonist, and the dramatic Southern Alps in the backdrop.

 

Quentin Wilson Publishing, RRP $37

The Palace Women
Jennifer Ryan

 

This charming novel follows the lives of three women working at Buckingham Palace in the lead-up to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. Assistant dresser Caroline is trapped in a loveless marriage. Junior wardrobe assistant Lucy dreams of being a singer. Miranda is an undercover journalist who needs a scoop to save her job. Each woman is at a crossroads in this novel of female friendship and resilience.

 

Pan Macmillan, RRP $38