The Deeper the Dead by Catherine Lea

This is the third novel featuring the tenacious Detective Inspector Nyree Bradshaw, from Kiwi author Catherine Lea. Set in the beautiful Far North of New Zealand, Catherine Lea reveals a dark underbelly beneath the beauty. 

Amanda McKay had inherited a secluded island from her estranged father, but she and an unidentified male companion were found murdered not long after. DI Bradshaw must discern the lies from the truth while juggling her new responsibilities of caring for her granddaughter.

It’s a complicated case, with many suspects, including two brothers who had been excluded from their father’s will. When they discovered that Amanda was in discussion with the local iwi about returning the island to them, after many bitter years of Māori land protest, they were even unhappier.

As Bradshaw and her team investigate, they uncover the body of a young child who has been missing for many years, and this case becomes linked to Amanda in ways that will surprise.

Fans of Catherine Lea’s previous books will love this new novel featuring DI Bradshaw, who reveals a softer side now that she is the guardian of her granddaughter. But on the job, she is still tough and uncompromising. For readers who haven’t read any of these books before, if you enjoy the popular Vera Stanhope series by Ann Cleeves, you will also enjoy Catherine Lea’s books.

Reviewer: Karen McMillan

Bateman Books