Nine To Noon Murder in Matakana: Madeleine Eskedahl's series continues
Feb 3, 2026
Madeleine Eskedahl, Swedish-born crime novelist living in New Zealand, creator of the Matakana series. She discusses a murder at a pottery retreat, wartime links to local secrets, recurring investigators Bill Granger and Nico Sopoanga, and why a picturesque town hides dark undercurrents. She also touches on Nordic influences, local reactions, and a forthcoming book about environmental crime.
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Beautiful Setting, Dark Undercurrents
- Madeleine Eskedahl set her Matakana novels in a picturesque North Auckland village she knows well.
- She uses the contrast between a stylish surface and hidden dark undercurrents to drive crime stories.
Crime Intertwines With Local History
- Angels of Clay links a modern murder to wartime history and community tensions.
- The plot weaves youth gang crime, station closure threats, and hidden family secrets into one investigation.
Recurring Investigators
- The series follows recurring characters Sergeant Bill Granger, Constable Nico Sopoanga and Annika Granger.
- Madeleine keeps the same protagonists across books to deepen character arcs and community ties.
