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Ryan Bradley #2
The First Law of the Bush
It’s a beautiful day to be alive, Bill Dickerson thought, seconds before he tumbled from the viaduct onto the jagged rocks below . . .
His awful death made national news. But still, one year on, Bill’s widow Carol has received no explanation about what happened. Was it suicide? An accident? Maybe murder?
So Carol hires lawyer Ryan Bradley in her fight for justice. Ryan has just returned to the remote town of Nashville after ten years away, so he’s in no position to turn down work.
Except the case seems hopeless from the start. Bill’s employer is denying responsibility, Carol’s friends are shunning her, and the only witnesses – co-workers Gav Coates and Wati Reynolds – can shed no light on the tragic fall. Even Senior Sergeant ‘Stinger’ Nettle is too busy turning a blind eye to Wati’s illegal schemes to dig deeper into the death.
But in small towns, nothing is quite what it seems. And for one Nashville resident the wrong question will come at a deadly price . . .
His awful death made national news. But still, one year on, Bill’s widow Carol has received no explanation about what happened. Was it suicide? An accident? Maybe murder?
So Carol hires lawyer Ryan Bradley in her fight for justice. Ryan has just returned to the remote town of Nashville after ten years away, so he’s in no position to turn down work.
Except the case seems hopeless from the start. Bill’s employer is denying responsibility, Carol’s friends are shunning her, and the only witnesses – co-workers Gav Coates and Wati Reynolds – can shed no light on the tragic fall. Even Senior Sergeant ‘Stinger’ Nettle is too busy turning a blind eye to Wati’s illegal schemes to dig deeper into the death.
But in small towns, nothing is quite what it seems. And for one Nashville resident the wrong question will come at a deadly price . . .
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2026
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March 7, 2026
EXCEPT: Once in the middle of the viaduct, Dicko took a moment to peer down into the ravine, then stretched his arms above him. It was well into winter but this was no ordinary winter's day. There would be skiers up on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, only a stone's throw from here, drinking in the warm sun, thinking exactly the same thing. How it was a beautiful day to be alive.
Dicko lost himself in his work, testing the sleeper pins, looking for any that might have popped up like cloves out of a baked ham, using the weight of his sledgehammer to pound them back in. He enjoyed that aspect of the job, putting his large, heavy frame to good use, and once he found his rhythm, there was usually nothing that could distract him. That's why, minutes later, just after a southbound diesel locomotive came onto the viaduct, when he launched off the side, cartwheeling onto the river rocks 259 feet below, Dicko had no idea what had hit him, and why nobody would be able to make sense of how and why he had met his death.
ABOUT 'THE FIRST LAW OF THE BUSH': It’s a beautiful day to be alive, Bill Dickerson thought, seconds before he tumbled from the viaduct onto the jagged rocks below . . .
His awful death made national news. But still, one year on, Bill’s widow Carol has received no explanation about what happened. Was it suicide? An accident? Maybe murder?
So Carol hires lawyer Ryan Bradley in her fight for justice. Ryan has just returned to the remote town of Nashville after ten years away, so he’s in no position to turn down work.
Except the case seems hopeless from the start. Bill’s employer is denying responsibility, Carol’s friends are shunning her, and the only witnesses – co-workers Gav Coates and Wati Reynolds – can shed no light on the tragic fall. Even Senior Sergeant ‘Stinger’ Nettle is too busy turning a blind eye to Wati’s illegal schemes to dig deeper into the death.
But in small towns, nothing is quite what it seems. And for one Nashville resident the wrong question will come at a deadly price . . .
MY THOUGHTS: 'The first law of the bush,’ said Wati.
‘Sorry?’
‘It’s an old saying from around here,’ explained Wati. ‘Don’t rely on the law and the police and the courts. Let people sort things out for themselves, how they’re supposed to be sorted.'
And hence the title . . .
But there's also people involved in this story who rely on the law, like Carol, Dicko's widow and her fight for compensation for his death. Although she too takes things into her own hands at one point.
It would be useful to read Parkes previous book, When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole, before starting this one. Although this takes place some ten years later, there are references to what happened in When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole and quite a few characters in common to both books. And to be perfectly honest, I slightly prefer When the Deep Dark Bush Swallows You Whole to The First Law of the Bush.
Told from multiple perspectives, the first half of The First Law of the Bush is a slow burn. The second half veers more into thriller territory when carefully laid plans run off the rails and some characters are left scrambling to cover up their misdeeds.
There are multiple twists and turns and I certainly didn't see the outcome to Bill Dickerson's story taking the turn it did.
Good 'down country' New Zealand fiction.
⭐⭐⭐.9
#TheFirstLawoftheBush @WaitomoDistrictLibrary
MEET THE AUTHOR: GEOFF PARKES Born and raised in rural New Zealand, I now call Melbourne home. I'd always considered school to be little more than a place to eat lunch and play sport, but recalling those rare moments of focus in the classroom, I remain indebted to an English teacher who encouraged me to write and write often.
Now, in a working life which has encompassed the full gamut, from the shearing shed to an abattoir floor, in small business, to executive management at a global Fortune 500 company, and being at the ground floor of an exciting dental tech start-up, I am fortunate enough to be able to pursue a writing career. (Source geoffparkes.com)
Dicko lost himself in his work, testing the sleeper pins, looking for any that might have popped up like cloves out of a baked ham, using the weight of his sledgehammer to pound them back in. He enjoyed that aspect of the job, putting his large, heavy frame to good use, and once he found his rhythm, there was usually nothing that could distract him. That's why, minutes later, just after a southbound diesel locomotive came onto the viaduct, when he launched off the side, cartwheeling onto the river rocks 259 feet below, Dicko had no idea what had hit him, and why nobody would be able to make sense of how and why he had met his death.
ABOUT 'THE FIRST LAW OF THE BUSH': It’s a beautiful day to be alive, Bill Dickerson thought, seconds before he tumbled from the viaduct onto the jagged rocks below . . .
His awful death made national news. But still, one year on, Bill’s widow Carol has received no explanation about what happened. Was it suicide? An accident? Maybe murder?
So Carol hires lawyer Ryan Bradley in her fight for justice. Ryan has just returned to the remote town of Nashville after ten years away, so he’s in no position to turn down work.
Except the case seems hopeless from the start. Bill’s employer is denying responsibility, Carol’s friends are shunning her, and the only witnesses – co-workers Gav Coates and Wati Reynolds – can shed no light on the tragic fall. Even Senior Sergeant ‘Stinger’ Nettle is too busy turning a blind eye to Wati’s illegal schemes to dig deeper into the death.
But in small towns, nothing is quite what it seems. And for one Nashville resident the wrong question will come at a deadly price . . .
MY THOUGHTS: 'The first law of the bush,’ said Wati.
‘Sorry?’
‘It’s an old saying from around here,’ explained Wati. ‘Don’t rely on the law and the police and the courts. Let people sort things out for themselves, how they’re supposed to be sorted.'
And hence the title . . .
But there's also people involved in this story who rely on the law, like Carol, Dicko's widow and her fight for compensation for his death. Although she too takes things into her own hands at one point.
It would be useful to read Parkes previous book, When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole, before starting this one. Although this takes place some ten years later, there are references to what happened in When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole and quite a few characters in common to both books. And to be perfectly honest, I slightly prefer When the Deep Dark Bush Swallows You Whole to The First Law of the Bush.
Told from multiple perspectives, the first half of The First Law of the Bush is a slow burn. The second half veers more into thriller territory when carefully laid plans run off the rails and some characters are left scrambling to cover up their misdeeds.
There are multiple twists and turns and I certainly didn't see the outcome to Bill Dickerson's story taking the turn it did.
Good 'down country' New Zealand fiction.
⭐⭐⭐.9
#TheFirstLawoftheBush @WaitomoDistrictLibrary
MEET THE AUTHOR: GEOFF PARKES Born and raised in rural New Zealand, I now call Melbourne home. I'd always considered school to be little more than a place to eat lunch and play sport, but recalling those rare moments of focus in the classroom, I remain indebted to an English teacher who encouraged me to write and write often.
Now, in a working life which has encompassed the full gamut, from the shearing shed to an abattoir floor, in small business, to executive management at a global Fortune 500 company, and being at the ground floor of an exciting dental tech start-up, I am fortunate enough to be able to pursue a writing career. (Source geoffparkes.com)
January 26, 2026
This book is all about exactly what the title says. Bush Law. You dont rely on law , police or the courts to solve anything. You let the people sort it out amongst themselves. Poor Carol, his wife, no one was interested in helping her apart from Ryan the lawyer.
What I really loved about this book was the setting ( New Zealand) and the idea of the bush law in a small town.
The first half is very character based and moves at a slow pace. The Second half was faster paced and more action.
What I really loved about this book was the setting ( New Zealand) and the idea of the bush law in a small town.
The first half is very character based and moves at a slow pace. The Second half was faster paced and more action.
March 10, 2026
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
🌳Rural New Zealand born and raised author Geoff Parkes, brings us a story born from his roots in The First Law of the Bush. Deeply situational, gritty and absorbing, Geoff Parkes has produced a solid crime story thanks to his latest release. This new rural noir left me completely curious and entertained. It was also a perfect book choice as a buddy to read with my sidekick @nadsylovesbooks.
🌳The First Law of the Bush sees the investigation of the fatal accident at a viaduct involving a man named Bill Dickerson. This shocking fall rocks the small New Zealand community where it occurred. Bill leaves behind his widow Carol, who seeks the truth about the circumstances to his death. There are questions around whether or not it was a murder, a terrible accident or an end of life act. Carol’s uncertainty leads her to hire a lawyer, who interrogates this case leading to revelation of tightly held local secrets and ultimately a past that will lead him to the truth around Bill’s demise.
🌳Geoff Parkes is a new face to me and I’m glad I was introduced to his writing by this buddy read and audiobook experience. The lovely @nadsylovesbooks joined me for this one and we both found it compelling, atmospheric and full of issues to deconstruct.
🌳As soon as the story gained some momentum, I became swept up in a frenzy of situations from a missing person, an arson attack and dodgy happenings. Parkes works hard to build a full and developing picture for his audience. We begin to recognise that this simple accident morphs into something much more complicated. The core mystery then takes centre stage, pulling in themes of secretive behaviours, community protection, justice, silence, grief, loss, remote living, homecoming, power, influence, morality, loyalty, survival, reputation and long standing relationships.
For me I have to say the layout of the novel was a real highlight, which was on par with the deep setting focus. I appreciated each chapter interchange coming from another cast member, giving the reader a valuable and varied step into the fate of the people inhabiting the town and their viewpoint. This compounded the sense of self protection, loyalty to others, secrets and community politics
It was such a nice trip on the page to New Zealand thanks to the setting stage focus of The First Law of the Bush. I think the location contributed to the story at hand and the unfolding. The sense of both isolation and claustrophobia from living in a tightly linked community gave rise to some great scenes in this book, especially the last third of the story that really sucked me right in.
The First Law of the Bush is a sure-fire rural mystery novel that takes you to some dark places. I was thrilled to listen to this on audio narrated by the excellent Michael Whalley. I really enjoyed my first Geoff Parkes novel and it was just fabulous to indulge in yet another memorable buddy read with my friend @nadsylovesbooks
🌟🌟🌟🌟4 stars
🌳Rural New Zealand born and raised author Geoff Parkes, brings us a story born from his roots in The First Law of the Bush. Deeply situational, gritty and absorbing, Geoff Parkes has produced a solid crime story thanks to his latest release. This new rural noir left me completely curious and entertained. It was also a perfect book choice as a buddy to read with my sidekick @nadsylovesbooks.
🌳The First Law of the Bush sees the investigation of the fatal accident at a viaduct involving a man named Bill Dickerson. This shocking fall rocks the small New Zealand community where it occurred. Bill leaves behind his widow Carol, who seeks the truth about the circumstances to his death. There are questions around whether or not it was a murder, a terrible accident or an end of life act. Carol’s uncertainty leads her to hire a lawyer, who interrogates this case leading to revelation of tightly held local secrets and ultimately a past that will lead him to the truth around Bill’s demise.
🌳Geoff Parkes is a new face to me and I’m glad I was introduced to his writing by this buddy read and audiobook experience. The lovely @nadsylovesbooks joined me for this one and we both found it compelling, atmospheric and full of issues to deconstruct.
🌳As soon as the story gained some momentum, I became swept up in a frenzy of situations from a missing person, an arson attack and dodgy happenings. Parkes works hard to build a full and developing picture for his audience. We begin to recognise that this simple accident morphs into something much more complicated. The core mystery then takes centre stage, pulling in themes of secretive behaviours, community protection, justice, silence, grief, loss, remote living, homecoming, power, influence, morality, loyalty, survival, reputation and long standing relationships.
For me I have to say the layout of the novel was a real highlight, which was on par with the deep setting focus. I appreciated each chapter interchange coming from another cast member, giving the reader a valuable and varied step into the fate of the people inhabiting the town and their viewpoint. This compounded the sense of self protection, loyalty to others, secrets and community politics
It was such a nice trip on the page to New Zealand thanks to the setting stage focus of The First Law of the Bush. I think the location contributed to the story at hand and the unfolding. The sense of both isolation and claustrophobia from living in a tightly linked community gave rise to some great scenes in this book, especially the last third of the story that really sucked me right in.
The First Law of the Bush is a sure-fire rural mystery novel that takes you to some dark places. I was thrilled to listen to this on audio narrated by the excellent Michael Whalley. I really enjoyed my first Geoff Parkes novel and it was just fabulous to indulge in yet another memorable buddy read with my friend @nadsylovesbooks
🌟🌟🌟🌟4 stars
January 12, 2026
Big thanks to Penguin for sending us a copy to read and review.
A death in a small rural town in New Zealand a year ago is finally put back under the spotlight.
Bill Dickerson fell into a viaduct and it was deemed an accident.
No delving into the facts, no explanation or compensation for his widow.
Something is amiss in the town.
The widow feels ostracised and people are afraid to talk.
The death does not seem to be attracting the police attention it deserves.
Ryan has returned back to his hometown, with the lawyer instinct and a driving tenacity he delves for the truth and ruffles feathers.
Another missing person, arson and the collation of evidence spirals into a story that will have you guessing.
I enjoyed the New Zealand setting, the similarities and differences it has with Australia and a fast paced crime plot.
A death in a small rural town in New Zealand a year ago is finally put back under the spotlight.
Bill Dickerson fell into a viaduct and it was deemed an accident.
No delving into the facts, no explanation or compensation for his widow.
Something is amiss in the town.
The widow feels ostracised and people are afraid to talk.
The death does not seem to be attracting the police attention it deserves.
Ryan has returned back to his hometown, with the lawyer instinct and a driving tenacity he delves for the truth and ruffles feathers.
Another missing person, arson and the collation of evidence spirals into a story that will have you guessing.
I enjoyed the New Zealand setting, the similarities and differences it has with Australia and a fast paced crime plot.
January 12, 2026
Part thriller, part murder mystery The First Law of the Bush is a small town, rural noir that I found thoroughly enjoyable.
Set in New Zealand in the 1990s, each chapter is told from a different character’s perspective, which I really enjoyed. It gives you more insight into the small town dynamics and what each persons motivations are, good, bad or otherwise. It’s tense, atmospheric and blends light and dark together seamlessly.
Overall an enjoyable and gritty read. Thank you to @penguinbooksaus for a copy to read.
Set in New Zealand in the 1990s, each chapter is told from a different character’s perspective, which I really enjoyed. It gives you more insight into the small town dynamics and what each persons motivations are, good, bad or otherwise. It’s tense, atmospheric and blends light and dark together seamlessly.
Overall an enjoyable and gritty read. Thank you to @penguinbooksaus for a copy to read.
January 5, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
The First Law of the Bush… if you want something sorted, you do it yourself! 🫣
The First Law of the Bush is a thriller/murder mystery, where Bill Dickerson dies in the first chapter…
This book has 9/10 POV’s and whilst I really love multiple points of view, and it made sense to have them, the first 50% really dragged. I felt like I was getting so many days in the life/snippets of back stories but not much plot development. I do think it’s necessary after finishing the book but if I’m honest, I nearly dnf’d at the 50% mark.
However… I am so glad I persevered because the pay off was WORTH IT! From the 50% mark, this book hit and that plot twist towards the end, I did not see coming. I almost launched myself off the couch haha hubby even paused his show on tv to ask 😂 I genuinely thought the book was heading in a slightly different direction.
I really enjoyed Geoff Parkes style of writing. I found it easy to read and follow along. I think he was able to create some really solid character arcs, even with so many points of view and in a 350 page book, this is a feat in itself.
Overall, I am SO glad I stuck this book out because I definitely would have been missing out for sure!
Thank you so much to @penguinbooksaus for an advanced copy of this book.
The First Law of the Bush… if you want something sorted, you do it yourself! 🫣
The First Law of the Bush is a thriller/murder mystery, where Bill Dickerson dies in the first chapter…
This book has 9/10 POV’s and whilst I really love multiple points of view, and it made sense to have them, the first 50% really dragged. I felt like I was getting so many days in the life/snippets of back stories but not much plot development. I do think it’s necessary after finishing the book but if I’m honest, I nearly dnf’d at the 50% mark.
However… I am so glad I persevered because the pay off was WORTH IT! From the 50% mark, this book hit and that plot twist towards the end, I did not see coming. I almost launched myself off the couch haha hubby even paused his show on tv to ask 😂 I genuinely thought the book was heading in a slightly different direction.
I really enjoyed Geoff Parkes style of writing. I found it easy to read and follow along. I think he was able to create some really solid character arcs, even with so many points of view and in a 350 page book, this is a feat in itself.
Overall, I am SO glad I stuck this book out because I definitely would have been missing out for sure!
Thank you so much to @penguinbooksaus for an advanced copy of this book.
January 5, 2026
This one was dark, uncomfortable and quietly tense in a way that really worked for me. Set in a small New Zealand town in the 90s, The First Law of the Bush kicks off with a death that everyone wants to label as “simple” and move on from. Except nothing about it feels simple especially not for Bill’s widow Carol who just wants answers and keeps hitting brick walls.
I really liked how this story handled small town energy. Everyone knows everyone, people look the other way when it suits them and asking the wrong questions feels genuinely dangerous. There’s a constant sense of something being off even when nothing big is happening.
Ryan the lawyer was flawed, a bit out of his depth and not some slick hero who magically fixes everything. The pacing is slower and more atmospheric and while there were moments it dragged for me the tension was always there under the surface. This isn’t a flashy twist every chapter kind of book. It’s more about mood, silence and the ugly truths people don’t want dug up. I didn’t love every part but I was invested and the ending definitely stuck with me.
If you like rural noir, small town secrets and stories that feel grimy and real rather than polished, this is worth picking up.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC.
I really liked how this story handled small town energy. Everyone knows everyone, people look the other way when it suits them and asking the wrong questions feels genuinely dangerous. There’s a constant sense of something being off even when nothing big is happening.
Ryan the lawyer was flawed, a bit out of his depth and not some slick hero who magically fixes everything. The pacing is slower and more atmospheric and while there were moments it dragged for me the tension was always there under the surface. This isn’t a flashy twist every chapter kind of book. It’s more about mood, silence and the ugly truths people don’t want dug up. I didn’t love every part but I was invested and the ending definitely stuck with me.
If you like rural noir, small town secrets and stories that feel grimy and real rather than polished, this is worth picking up.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC.
January 22, 2026
Having recently read the first novel by Geoff Parkes, titled ‘When the Deep Dark Bush swallows you Whole’, this subsequent offering set ten years later in time, reestablished Ryan Bradley as the protagonist drawn into situations that cast doubt on the integrity and motivation related to suspicious actions of local citizens including Sergeant Stinger Nettle and Wati Reynolds. The narrative juxtaposed the conduct of reputable individuals like Mayor Wendell Smith and lawyer Ryan Bradley against those of Stinger and Wati drawing distinctions between selfish as opposed to altruistic actions and decisions. The writing structure again was engaging- short sharp chapters keeping reader interest and engagement by providing regular input on all characters. The reestablishment of relationships between characters introduced in the earlier book, especially Crystal and Lance Peterson, now a Senior Constable gave additional context to both this particular narrative and the small town of Nashville that formed the setting for both accounts. Located in the rural heartland of the North Island of New Zealand it provided familiarity with places I had previously visited including Auckland, Rotarua and Lake Taupo.
March 7, 2026
This may be read as a standalone, or following on from When The Deep Dark Bush Swallows You Whole - based around fictional Nashville in New Zealand’s King Country, this finds now lawyer Ryan back in the town he grew up in, taking over the local legal practice. However, shady dealings are afoot - and it all starts with an accident on the railways earlier, and the wish for the widow to receive compensation. This opens up a can of worms, where you’re never sure who to trust (and alternately: pretty sure about not trusting some characters), and then the reader is thrown into motorcycle gangs, drug dealing, blackmail, gambling debts, police corruption, and general small townedness (gossip, rumour, factions, etc).
As you may guess by the two day read on this one, it’s a fast-paced story, with real characters (I think I went to school with some of them), and for any non New Zealanders, just keep your google handy for Buzz bars, chilly bins, etc.
As you may guess by the two day read on this one, it’s a fast-paced story, with real characters (I think I went to school with some of them), and for any non New Zealanders, just keep your google handy for Buzz bars, chilly bins, etc.
March 28, 2026
Solid crime story with authentic Kiwi small town setting
April 5, 2026
Best NZ thriller writer bar none. Authentic characters, dialogue, motivations, decisions. Atmospheric, credible, gripping.
April 19, 2026
Australian crime writing has not disappointed me yet, with the only thing coming close are Scandi crime novels. Myddle is a country town, relatively in the middle of nowhere special. It has all the characteristics of a country town – long standing families and residents, corrupt cops, cold hard ingrained racism, abusive relationships, the greedy pressure to develop prized land and local assets, and the longstanding impacts of colonialism on local Aboriginal communities. Additionally, this story features a lot of women in the town, living in a small community where patriarchy still reigns supreme. Ruth, the seconded lawyer, very quickly picks up the beat of Myddle and becomes part of the action, whether she wanted to be or not. Bea is young, unsure of her future and where she belongs in the world. Evie wants a family and to manage her inherited land in the best way she can. Rita, mother of Troy, who is a target for anyone because of their Aboriginality. Patch, the daughter of Roscoe and mother of her clan of children who is not impressed wit her father’s girlfriend, Chandra, the existential rainbow warrior with a corporate mission.
The title of this book is fitting: It refers to the beautiful ancient steep rockface set within the story, that is at jeopardy of being ruined through a future development. It described the deception that was at the basis of so many of the relationships. It was a nod to ruth’s directness, and her own perceived bluntness, and having to worry about how others could perceive that side of her. It also described the way some of the characters, like Gazza the local police officer and Dash, Evie’s husband who bluffed their way through their actions; the weaker men pretending they were stronger than they really were. The recounting of the timeframe was also expertly delivered that allows a deeper dive into the motives of all of the characters, and how they all ended up where they were, with the death of Evie’s husband, Dash, and Bea missing in action. This added to the many steps taken to deduce the clues, and helped Ruth to walk through all of her new relationships in town and uncover the facts and motivations behind all of their actions, from the day-to-day interactions to who had blood on their hands. It also expertly set the first chapter to be one to rethink what happened: the reader could deduce a particular scenario from those very first pages, and in the last chapters, challenge the significance of that first moment in the book.
This is the Aussie crime novel you need to get your hands on. There are complicated layers, elements of kindness and vulnerability, ignorance and learning from mistakes: all shining a light on the fragility of life in a small town.
The title of this book is fitting: It refers to the beautiful ancient steep rockface set within the story, that is at jeopardy of being ruined through a future development. It described the deception that was at the basis of so many of the relationships. It was a nod to ruth’s directness, and her own perceived bluntness, and having to worry about how others could perceive that side of her. It also described the way some of the characters, like Gazza the local police officer and Dash, Evie’s husband who bluffed their way through their actions; the weaker men pretending they were stronger than they really were. The recounting of the timeframe was also expertly delivered that allows a deeper dive into the motives of all of the characters, and how they all ended up where they were, with the death of Evie’s husband, Dash, and Bea missing in action. This added to the many steps taken to deduce the clues, and helped Ruth to walk through all of her new relationships in town and uncover the facts and motivations behind all of their actions, from the day-to-day interactions to who had blood on their hands. It also expertly set the first chapter to be one to rethink what happened: the reader could deduce a particular scenario from those very first pages, and in the last chapters, challenge the significance of that first moment in the book.
This is the Aussie crime novel you need to get your hands on. There are complicated layers, elements of kindness and vulnerability, ignorance and learning from mistakes: all shining a light on the fragility of life in a small town.
April 10, 2026
Geoff Parkes returns to the small New Zealand town of Nasvhille in his second novel The First Law of the Bush. The First Law of the Bush is set ten years after the events of Parkes’ debut When the Deep Dark Bush Swallows You Whole. Many of the characters return for this book particularly Ryan Bradley, a law student in the first book who has returned and taken over the local solicitor’s practice.
The First Law of the Bush opens with a suspicious accident. Railway maintenance worker Bill Dickerson falls to his death from a railbridge. A year later, Bill’s wife Carol comes to see Ryan. She has received no compensation for the death as it was ruled a potential suicide, a finding she has evidence to disprove. Ryan, despite misgivings, takes the case on. Meanwhile, swirling around the town, there are criminal goings on in part facilitated by the ranking police officer Senior Sergeant ‘Stinger’ Nettle who sees keeping the wheels greased as part of his job. Until they come to the attention of Ryan’s best friend and wannabe detective Senior Constable Lance Peterson.
Ryan is at the centre of the narrative. But, as with the first book in this series, The First Law of the Book presents a mosaic of points-of-view from all of the major, and some minor, characters. This is a feature in that readers get a view of a range of the residents of Nashville. But this focus also means Parkes ends up digging more deeply into the motivations of some of the characters which sometimes don’t quite make sense. And this technique also tends to slow the plot down, making the whole enterprise feel a little ponderous at times.
The interesting aspect of this series is the time jump. Parkes takes his setting from the early 1980s into the 1990s and so is able to reference a completely new set of cultural touchstones. But, as is the problem with many series set in small towns, it also means that he ends up repeating some of the beats of the first book.
Parkes evokes the town of Nashville through a large cross-section of its residents and once again uses them to explore dark issues involving violence, abuse and drugs. And assuming more books of this series are planes, he leaves his characters in a place where another time jump might find them in another interesting part of their lives. Overall, though, The First Law of the Bush is another good example of Southern Cross rural noir.
The First Law of the Bush opens with a suspicious accident. Railway maintenance worker Bill Dickerson falls to his death from a railbridge. A year later, Bill’s wife Carol comes to see Ryan. She has received no compensation for the death as it was ruled a potential suicide, a finding she has evidence to disprove. Ryan, despite misgivings, takes the case on. Meanwhile, swirling around the town, there are criminal goings on in part facilitated by the ranking police officer Senior Sergeant ‘Stinger’ Nettle who sees keeping the wheels greased as part of his job. Until they come to the attention of Ryan’s best friend and wannabe detective Senior Constable Lance Peterson.
Ryan is at the centre of the narrative. But, as with the first book in this series, The First Law of the Book presents a mosaic of points-of-view from all of the major, and some minor, characters. This is a feature in that readers get a view of a range of the residents of Nashville. But this focus also means Parkes ends up digging more deeply into the motivations of some of the characters which sometimes don’t quite make sense. And this technique also tends to slow the plot down, making the whole enterprise feel a little ponderous at times.
The interesting aspect of this series is the time jump. Parkes takes his setting from the early 1980s into the 1990s and so is able to reference a completely new set of cultural touchstones. But, as is the problem with many series set in small towns, it also means that he ends up repeating some of the beats of the first book.
Parkes evokes the town of Nashville through a large cross-section of its residents and once again uses them to explore dark issues involving violence, abuse and drugs. And assuming more books of this series are planes, he leaves his characters in a place where another time jump might find them in another interesting part of their lives. Overall, though, The First Law of the Bush is another good example of Southern Cross rural noir.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“The first law of the bush,’ said Wati.
‘Sorry?’
‘It’s an old saying from around here,’ explained Wati. ‘Don’t rely on the law and the police and the courts. Let people sort things out for themselves, how they’re supposed to be sorted.”
The First Law of the Bush is the sophomore crime novel from New Zealand author Geoff Parkes, with loose links to his debut novel When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole.
A year after Bill Dickerson plunged to his death from the viaduct he was repairing, his widow seeks the help of local lawyer Ryan Bradley to appeal the Railways refusal to pay her compensation after an open finding. In need of the work, Ryan agrees to look into case, and while everyone, including the local police sergeant, is adamant that whatever happened, it was the result of Dickerson’s own actions, something about the incident doesn’t seem quite right. Ryan’s concerns ties in with those of his friend, Senior Constable Lance Peterson who is beginning to suspect Sergeant ‘Stinger’ is protecting the deadly secrets of more than one town resident, and that they will do anything to keep them.
I think it’s fair to say that The First Law of the Bush is slow to start, Parkes shifts perspectives between several characters which effectively lays the foundation for later events, but delays the pace. It does pick up about halfway through though, and I was invested in the unraveling of the secrets of this rural New Zealand community.
There are no big surprises in the story as such but there is plenty of intrigue between Dickerson’s suspicious death, his intimidating colleague, a nervous baker, a withdrawn teenage girl, and an arrogant police sergeant.
The characters of the town, even the minor ones, feel authentic. Ryan is a good guy with a strong sense of justice, anxious to do the right thing by everyone, including the people of his hometown. Despite his experience with tragedy though he’s perhaps a little naive, which plays a role in events.
The First Law of the Bush is well written and the tone is an interesting mix of dark and light. There is often an undercurrent of unease and even menace in the story, but there are also flashes of wit, and even small town wholesomeness.
Best described as rural noir, The First Law of the Bush is an engaging read, exposing the darker side of small town life.
‘Sorry?’
‘It’s an old saying from around here,’ explained Wati. ‘Don’t rely on the law and the police and the courts. Let people sort things out for themselves, how they’re supposed to be sorted.”
The First Law of the Bush is the sophomore crime novel from New Zealand author Geoff Parkes, with loose links to his debut novel When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole.
A year after Bill Dickerson plunged to his death from the viaduct he was repairing, his widow seeks the help of local lawyer Ryan Bradley to appeal the Railways refusal to pay her compensation after an open finding. In need of the work, Ryan agrees to look into case, and while everyone, including the local police sergeant, is adamant that whatever happened, it was the result of Dickerson’s own actions, something about the incident doesn’t seem quite right. Ryan’s concerns ties in with those of his friend, Senior Constable Lance Peterson who is beginning to suspect Sergeant ‘Stinger’ is protecting the deadly secrets of more than one town resident, and that they will do anything to keep them.
I think it’s fair to say that The First Law of the Bush is slow to start, Parkes shifts perspectives between several characters which effectively lays the foundation for later events, but delays the pace. It does pick up about halfway through though, and I was invested in the unraveling of the secrets of this rural New Zealand community.
There are no big surprises in the story as such but there is plenty of intrigue between Dickerson’s suspicious death, his intimidating colleague, a nervous baker, a withdrawn teenage girl, and an arrogant police sergeant.
The characters of the town, even the minor ones, feel authentic. Ryan is a good guy with a strong sense of justice, anxious to do the right thing by everyone, including the people of his hometown. Despite his experience with tragedy though he’s perhaps a little naive, which plays a role in events.
The First Law of the Bush is well written and the tone is an interesting mix of dark and light. There is often an undercurrent of unease and even menace in the story, but there are also flashes of wit, and even small town wholesomeness.
Best described as rural noir, The First Law of the Bush is an engaging read, exposing the darker side of small town life.
March 29, 2026
A year after Bill Dickerson’s fatal fall from a viaduct, his widow Carol still has no answers - was it suicide, an accident, or murder? She hires lawyer Ryan Bradley, newly returned to the remote town of Nashville, to seek justice. But the case is stacked against them: Bill’s employer denies responsibility, witnesses offer no clarity, and the local police turn a blind eye. As Ryan digs deeper, he discovers that in small towns, nothing is as it seems—and asking the wrong question can be deadly.
This book was my introduction to the author, and I was expecting a fairly standard procedural crime thriller with Ryan as the main sleuth. Instead, it turned out to be much broader in scope. Rather than just following Ryan, we spent time with a rich cast of characters, each with their own backstory and narrative space.
I really enjoyed the twists, turns, and the layered drama behind the case. At first, I wasn’t sure how all the extra characters would fit into the story, but once everything started coming together, I was completely hooked. This wasn’t a straightforward case, and the ending genuinely made me emotional.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes their crime fiction with a deeper emotional core.
(Thanks to Penguin Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
This book was my introduction to the author, and I was expecting a fairly standard procedural crime thriller with Ryan as the main sleuth. Instead, it turned out to be much broader in scope. Rather than just following Ryan, we spent time with a rich cast of characters, each with their own backstory and narrative space.
I really enjoyed the twists, turns, and the layered drama behind the case. At first, I wasn’t sure how all the extra characters would fit into the story, but once everything started coming together, I was completely hooked. This wasn’t a straightforward case, and the ending genuinely made me emotional.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes their crime fiction with a deeper emotional core.
(Thanks to Penguin Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
March 2, 2026
A sequel of sorts, The First Law of the Bush (2026) by Geoff Parkes, is set in 1993, New Zealand. Ryan Bradley returns to his childhood home of Nashville, a decade after leaving. Ryan has taken over the local solicitor’s office and is slowly building his law practise. He accepts a case where the wife of a local railway worker wants to contest the open findings on her late husband’s accidental death. As he tries to build a case, the man’s coworkers and the local police sergeant are reluctant to get involved. With its rich characterisations of the various locals and their subterfuge, this slow-building crime thriller has an explosive climax, making it a four and a half star read. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
March 4, 2026
Im not sure what to think of this. The writing style was quite nice (except for some writing just to write) and I really liked the short chapters that focused on specific characters. There are a lot of characters, so it made it very easy to remember them all and their relationships.
The title was a little clickbait ngl. I presumed this would have characters actually in the bush, like hunt for the wilder people or something. Could have done with some more train/railway action though.
It was super awesome to read a New Zealand book. Recognising locations, hearing my language spoken in conversation, and hearing kiwi brand names was so cool.
I didn’t like the story. Way way way too many sexual themes, which I’d rather not read.
The title was a little clickbait ngl. I presumed this would have characters actually in the bush, like hunt for the wilder people or something. Could have done with some more train/railway action though.
It was super awesome to read a New Zealand book. Recognising locations, hearing my language spoken in conversation, and hearing kiwi brand names was so cool.
I didn’t like the story. Way way way too many sexual themes, which I’d rather not read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was immediately hooked on this tense and atmospheric rural thriller.
Refreshingly set in Lake Taupo, New Zealand, I loved the small country town setting, everyone knowing each other...and each other's business. Sometimes they'd turn a blind eye if they didn't like what they saw...at other times, they'd deal with things in their own way, using "the law of the bush".
The beauty of Lake Taupo made a nice contrast to the sinister things going on amongst its inhabitants.
Ryan, the very new, very green lawyer trying his best to uncover the truth, is a great character with depth and integrity, very keen to do the right thing. I also liked his supportive partner Crystal, a social worker, who also became involved in the case. Carol and Bill were also interesting, constantly keeping you guessing as to their next moves.
I definitely recommend it! I'm now looking forward to reading more of Geoff's books.
4.7 ⭐️'s
Refreshingly set in Lake Taupo, New Zealand, I loved the small country town setting, everyone knowing each other...and each other's business. Sometimes they'd turn a blind eye if they didn't like what they saw...at other times, they'd deal with things in their own way, using "the law of the bush".
The beauty of Lake Taupo made a nice contrast to the sinister things going on amongst its inhabitants.
Ryan, the very new, very green lawyer trying his best to uncover the truth, is a great character with depth and integrity, very keen to do the right thing. I also liked his supportive partner Crystal, a social worker, who also became involved in the case. Carol and Bill were also interesting, constantly keeping you guessing as to their next moves.
I definitely recommend it! I'm now looking forward to reading more of Geoff's books.
4.7 ⭐️'s
January 10, 2026
This is not for me. I acknowledge the skill. Good story, believable characters, well-established setting playing its part and a main character worth following. Against that is my impatience with multiple viewpoint narratives, my impatience to cut to the chase and a dislike of noir. I skimmed. My rating reflects my acknowledgment rather than my reaction.
The dates should both be 10 Jan - the calendar does not seem to take account of time in Australia!
The dates should both be 10 Jan - the calendar does not seem to take account of time in Australia!
April 14, 2026
The First Law of The Bush - Geoff Parkes.
This book had me hooked in next to no time.
Following on from the first in the series, it lived up to my expectations. Very well written with characterisations that you could easily connect with. Loved the chapter lengths and each individually personalised. The storyline kept me captivated from start to finish. Geoff Parkes just nudged his way into my favourites authors list.
This book had me hooked in next to no time.
Following on from the first in the series, it lived up to my expectations. Very well written with characterisations that you could easily connect with. Loved the chapter lengths and each individually personalised. The storyline kept me captivated from start to finish. Geoff Parkes just nudged his way into my favourites authors list.
May 7, 2026
I enjoyed this book. It worked as a standalone, as I didn’t realise it was a sequel. Things weren’t adding up in Nashville, from Bill Dickersons death to Stinger having wads of cash in his car. I liked the way the story unfolded, and the twist at the end. I’m interested in reading the first book now.
February 16, 2026
I found this book hard to follow at times, but all in all it was a good book. I certainly did not expect the book to end in the way it did. I think the last half of the book kept me gripped more than the first half
March 2, 2026
Another solid read from Parkes. I did like the connections with his other book. Loved the NZ setting and the twist and turned kept me reading. The ending was a bit rushed but otherwise really great writing.
March 9, 2026
An engrossing read. The real reason for Bill Dickerson's death comes as a total surprise. The plot is well constructed with a number of sub-plots that are well executed. An author to watch and I will certainly be reading his debut title., When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole.
March 12, 2026
with a 1/2
With the move to right wing populism this book set in NZ reveals the craziness of the extremists.
I have not read the first in this series but it did not impede my enjoyment reading this book.
All the 'usual elements'...drugs-corrupt cops-bikies....
It was a well written book.
With the move to right wing populism this book set in NZ reveals the craziness of the extremists.
I have not read the first in this series but it did not impede my enjoyment reading this book.
All the 'usual elements'...drugs-corrupt cops-bikies....
It was a well written book.
March 22, 2026
Ryan is a decade older, but back in Nashville. This was pretty slow for about 2/3 of it, wasn't grabbing me as much as the first book. But.. sure picked up, with so many different strands coming together. First book in a long time where I cried when a character died. Hope there'll be more.
March 26, 2026
Another great read from Geoff Parkes!! I’m already looking forward to the next, I love how much I can visualise the settings in small rural NZ towns and the characters lifestyles he paints. A really good read, highly recommend!
April 5, 2026
A solid crime fiction set in NZ rugged country. MC Ryan returns as a full fleged lawyer in the small town where people are disappearing and crimes are afoot. The ending felt a little rushed but overall a quick, entertaining read
January 22, 2026
i'd say 3.5; but don't be fooled bc i actually really enjoyed this book i just think i'm getting back into crime slowly
February 20, 2026
3.5 stars
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