Paper Cage

Paper Cage is a provocative first novel by Tom Baragwanath that was shortlisted for the Ngaio Marsh Awards 2023 and The Ned Kelly Awards 2023. It is a nail-biting thriller and a beautifully written, acutely observed portrait of a community in crisis. Lorraine Henry is a records clerk at the police station who is called in to help solve cases when her great-nephew is the next to disappear.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: John Murray Press

Shortlisted for Ngaio Marsh Awards 2023


Shortlisted for The Ned Kelly Awards 2023


Tom Baragwanath's provocative first novel is a riveting and shocking masterpiece. The Times hailed it as a "magnetic debut," while the Daily Mail described it as "breathtakingly compelling." Set in the small town of Masterton, New Zealand, the novel explores the deep-rooted divisions between the Maori and white inhabitants, fueled by old resentments and simmering tensions of race and culture.


However, when local children start to disappear, vanishing between the cracks, accusations fly, and community relations reach a boiling point. Caught in the middle is Lorraine Henry, a lowly records clerk at the police station, who quietly makes connections and remembers things that the cops would rather not. Solving cases is not part of her job, but when her great-nephew is the next to disappear, she is called in to help, all before time runs out for the children.


Paper Cage is a remarkable debut that blends elements of a nail-biting thriller with a beautifully written, acutely observed portrait of a community in crisis. Baragwanath's portrayal of Lorraine Henry is a wonderfully flawed central character, making her relatable and compelling. The novel is a standout among literary thrillers, showcasing Baragwanath's mastery of the craft of literary crime.


With its captivating storyline, intricate character development, and masterful storytelling, Paper Cage heralds the arrival of an exciting new voice in New Zealand storytelling. It is a testament to Baragwanath's talent and promise as a writer, and is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating his future works.


In conclusion, Tom Baragwanath's Paper Cage is a must-read for anyone who loves literary thrillers. It is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of human relationships, the power of memory, and the consequences of prejudice. Baragwanath's debut is a testament to his talent and promise as a writer, and we can expect great things from him in the future.

Weight: 526g
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399808118