Hugh McGinlay’s third book in the Catherine Kint mystery series is a fun read that draws you in – especially if you are familiar with the location.
Bodysurfing takes place in Ocean Grove with gin-loving milliner Catherine Kint and good friend Britt Houden, a homicide detective, enjoying all of what the town has to offer during a well-earned holiday.
Despite the early-ish time of day, Catherine and Britt are lazing on the beach and wondering if they should reach into the esky for a cold one, when the pair are startled by a commotion nearby.
A fully-clothed body of a man has washed up on the beach and even though they are on holidays, Britt and Catherine (a former CSI) can’t help but get involved.
It becomes apparent the man was murdered and with a local by-election looming, he was also the Greens candidate.
They shouldn’t get involved – especially Britt – but when a handsome detective arrives at the scene and the investigation doesn’t go to plan, it’s inevitable they do.
Britt is told to let it be. She is on holiday and it’s none of her business, but with a willing accomplice in Catherine and two male friends, Boris and Andy, from Melbourne joining them, they are dragged into the story that unfolds.
What follows is a plot that gets dangerous and, at times, hilarious.
McGinlay incorporates local businesses and attractions into the story, giving locals, or anyone who has been to Ocean Grove for that matter, a genuine feel that they are there with the characters as the tale unfolds.
It’s well worth the read and McGinlay, a much-loved Australian musician and author, keeps the pace flowing nicely without sacrificing character development.
Published by Clan Destine Press, Bodysurfing is available in paperback and ebook.
Hugh McGinlay will be at Ocean Grove Library on Thursday February 17 for an author talk from 5pm to 6pm. He is looking forward to meeting and chatting about the book.
Bookings: events.grlc.vic.gov.au/event/5883470
