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on the bookshelf - girl reading
on the bookshelf - girl reading

On The Bookshelf: August 2023

Thought-provoking novels and stories that linger after the final page.

The Shot by Naima Brown

Ruthless TV producer Mara Bolt is looking for a young woman willing to undergo a ‘Total Body Transformation’ with the aim of recapturing her lost love’s affection on reality TV. Down-on-her-luck Kristy is cast, but she only has 30 days to secure Max’s love on camera. Otherwise, she will have her surgeries reversed and go back to her previous life. A high-concept, rollercoaster read about obsession and beauty.

Macmillan Publishers, RRP $37.99

the maiden by Kate Foster

The Maiden by Kate Foster

A novel based on historical true-life events. In 1679, a young woman was executed in Edinburgh for the murder of her lover, Lord James Forrester. Kate Foster has taken the historical facts of this case and has woven a page-telling, compelling novel as we follow the fate of young Lady Christian and a prostitute, Violet, and their possible connection with the powerful but manipulative Lord James Forrester.

Mantle, RRP $37.99

where light meets water

Where Light Meets Water by Susan Paterson

London, 1847. Sailor Tom is on shore leave waiting for his ship to be repaired. His secret passion is art, and when he finds a delicate lace glove smelling of turpentine, he meets Catherine, who upends his world and forces him to make difficult life choices. A stunning literary debut, full of beauty, that explores the power of art to transform lives. A moving novel you will want to read slowly to savour every exquisite moment.

Simon & Schuster, RRP $37.99

hannah & huia

Hanna & Huia by Charlotte Lobb

After the sudden death of her husband and baby son, Hannah is in a mental health unit so shocked by recent events that she is rendered speechless. But she is slowly drawn out of her web of despair by long-term resident Huia and her mutterings and gestures. This is a novel of two women and two tragedies in one tender and powerful story about healing and redemption. A stunning debut drama.

Quentin Wilson Publishing, RRP $37.50

Words KAREN MCMILLAN, bestselling author
karenm.co.nz | nzbooklovers.co.nz