Paper Cage [NZ]

  11 Reviews

Lorraine Henry may only be a records clerk for the Masterton police station, but she's a fount of knowledge about the 'ins' and 'outs' of the town. But now with two children missing, one of them her great-nephew Bradley, Lo has skin in the game and in conjunction with Justin Hayes, a Wellington detective, she becomes a vital cog in the investigation.

With its descriptive writing, its strong sense of place and its sharp-eyed protagonist, this is a slow-burn thriller that skilfully exposes the dark underbelly of small-town New Zealand. [Larger font]

Reviews

CHCH 518

15-07-2024

The group felt the actual story was far fetched and often wandered away from the storyline. The writing though was very good and the descriptions of small town N.Z. were accurate and believable.

GREYT 001

06-06-2024

We must admit to bias with this book! As a Wairarapa group (ages 70-94) we delighted in the "local" content. Streets, rivers, places were all 'ours'! A good, pretty well-written story, which did bring up discussion regarding racism and the white/Pakeha - 'We are better than them" ending.

FEILD 004

09-05-2024

Well-written for a first novel. We believe the author (known to one of our group) has had experience as a social worker so has written with substantial background knowledge and insight. Some of our group more aware and understanding of these themes. We all acknowledge it is a true and accurate portrayal. This made some of us uncomfortable admitting that it wouldn't worry us so much if about another cultural divide in another country.

NELS 089

24-04-2024

Thought provoking book - many ideas present that led to a good robust discussion.

WHAKA 017

17-04-2024

Overall 'Paper Cage' was enjoyed by everyone, and was a good reflection of small town life in New Zealand. Some considered the themes overstated and that the book would only be relatable to New Zealand readers. It reflected badly on N.Z. police, especially their lack of concern for the missing children. Hayes is an exception. It was an easy fast exciting read even though a little improbable at times. Some readers are looking forward to his next book.

WELL 066

15-03-2024

Group members mostly enjoyed this book. The author cleverly looks at the impact of racism, poverty and inequalities on crime solving and in communities in N.Z, while depicting a series of kidnappings.

WELL 093

11-03-2024

Enjoyed the book. Thank you.

TAUR 004

22-02-2024

Everyone (bar one) enjoyed this. The author's description of N.Z. small towns and the countryside was very evocative. Suspense maintained. A part of N.Z. life most of us don't know about but very well-written and researched.

CHCH 561

15-01-2024

Hard to get into for the first few chapters and then it gets very captivating and hard to put down. Would have liked more character descriptions. Enjoyed it being set in Aotearoa.

NEWP 001

13-12-2023

Most people enjoyed the book, but didn't like the unresolved ending.

CHCH 539

12-09-2023

All loved this novel. Easy read with good level of suspense. Some very thoughtful discussion on 'community secrets' and different layers of justice. Definitely a good read.