The floating basin / Carolyn Hawes.

The ripples raced across to the islands; the rushes shuddered and were sucked beneath the water; seconds later they sprang back in surprise. Detective Ru Clement is a new addition to the New Zealand crime scene. A body is discovered in a tidal lagoon on the South Island's west coast and Ru must untangle a complicated web of past and present events, including those in his own life. A cast of well-drawn characters combines with sharp observation about small town life where characters are larger than life and conflicts easily become savage. A great yarn which will resonate especially with West Coasters past and present, but will also appeal to anyone who likes a crime story with a unique flavour and authentic setting.