Belinda Pollard crafts compelling mystery novels inspired by the wild and her love for animals. Her work delves into the transformative power of feedback, revealing how constructive criticism not only refines a manuscript but also nurtures the author. Pollard infuses her narratives with personal insights and humor, often weaving relatable anecdotes into suspenseful plots. Her distinctive voice brings the rugged Australian landscape to life, creating immersive and thought-provoking mysteries.
"The Maori call this place Ata Whenua -- Shadow Land." Television reporter Callie Brown likes safe places with good coffee. But she joins friends from the past on a trek into New Zealand's most brutal wilderness, in the hope of healing a broken heart. What she doesn't know is that someone wants them all dead.
Set in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, the narrative explores the cultural and spiritual significance of the region known as Ata Whenua, or Shadow Land, to the Maori people. It delves into the rich traditions, beliefs, and the deep connection between the Maori and their land, highlighting the interplay of nature and identity. The story captures the essence of place, weaving together themes of heritage, belonging, and the impact of the environment on the human experience.
The narrative opens with a tense moment as the protagonist emerges from the water, struggling to maintain composure while avoiding drawing attention to herself. The imagery suggests a sense of vulnerability and danger, hinting at a predator-prey dynamic. This scene sets the stage for a story that likely explores themes of survival, instinct, and the psychological impact of being hunted.
The narrative opens with a tense moment as a character emerges from the water, struggling to maintain composure while avoiding drawing attention to herself. The imagery evokes a sense of vulnerability and danger, suggesting a deeper conflict or threat lurking beneath the surface. This scene sets the stage for a story that may explore themes of survival, fear, and the instinct to evade danger.