MATAKANA’S QUEEN OF CRIME RETURNS
This month, local crime fiction author Madeleine Eskedahl releases Angels of Clay, the third gripping instalment in her bestselling Matakana Series, following on from thrillers Blood on Vines and Rings on Water.
Set in the lush, sun-soaked wine country of New Zealand, the series delivers gripping, atmospheric mysteries where small-town charm collides with chilling crimes. Featuring unforgettable characters and layered investigations that span generations, each novel offers a tense, emotionally rich journey into the heart of a seemingly peaceful community with a dark undercurrent.
“I really enjoy challenging my characters, and what truly inspires me is the question of ‘what if this happened?’ Combined with the area’s history, people and wonderful environs, this creates vivid settings in my books,” explains Eskedahl.
Angels of Clay was inspired by Madeleine’s discovery that during WWII, thousands of US Marines were stationed in and around the Warkworth area. This led to an in- depth study of what life was like, especially around Whangateau, Pakiri, and Matakana during that time. She explores not only the struggles and lack of essential items, but also the immense contribution and lasting imprint left on the community by the Marines.
Many New Zealand girls met and fell in love with the handsome “Yanks.” Some found happy endings, others heartbreak. It sparked the idea: what if there was a relationship not condoned by a local young woman’s family? And what if there was a connection to the present?
Madeleine resides in Leigh, and when she’s not writing fast-paced thrillers, she enjoys time with her family and their two West Highland Terriers, Walter and Dottie.
Angels of Clay will be launched at The Vintry in Matakana on Sunday 12 October at 2pm. Join Madeleine for a glass of wine and nibbles to celebrate. RSVP is essential by Friday 10 October to secure your spot: madeleineeskedahlauthor@gmail.com