Michael Bennett, Better the Blood

“Set in New Zealand this is the first in what will hopefully be a series featuring detective Hana Westerman who is doubly cursed. First, as a woman in a male dominated profession and, second, as a Maori, the second-class citizens of Kiwi society. Through grit, hard work, and determination she has risen through the ranks to be handed the toughest case of her career. A series of strange ritualistic murders are rocking the capital and she determines they are linked to a hanging, 160 years ago, of a Maori chieftain. All the deaths are relations of those pictured in a grisly sepia-toned photo celebrating the Chief’s death. A smart, cat-and-mouse game that touches on all aspects of modern New Zealand, this is a novel that is as thought-provoking (think Native Americans and other native cultures) as it is entertaining.” — Pete Mock