Books Aloud

Host: Coast Access Radio with Hosts Catherine Scullin or Viv Bailey
Categories: Arts and Culture
Languages: English

Coast Access Radio
Produced By: Coast Access Radio
Programme Website

Books Aloud is a show embracing local, national and international authors. In each episode we will bring you an excerpt from a book, an interview or an entire narration of a book. This will be a mixed bag of genres - from kids books, novels, art and historical books and everything in between. All books discussed and narrated will be available for purchase at your favorite book store or through the authors distributers. There will also be the odd book to giveaway to listeners of the programme.

All Episodes

Books Aloud - Obligate Carnivore, Stephanie Johnson

Published: 02/12/2025 5:00 p.m.

Politics, religion, conversation, love, sex, ageing and addiction are all explored in Stephanie Johnson’s brilliant collection of short stories. Join Viv as she talks to Stephanie Johnson, one of New Zealand's most accomplished novelists and short story writers.

Books Aloud - Mandy Hager, Revenge and Rabbit Holes

Published: 25/11/2025 5:00 p.m.

Revenge and Rabbit Holes is the latest adult novel from Kapiti Coast's award-winning author, Mandy Hager. She talks to Vivienne about this second book in the Chasing Ghosts mystery series.

Books Aloud - Angels of Clay by Madeleine Eskerdahl

Published: 18/11/2025 5:00 p.m.

Thrilling crime novel from bestselling NZ author Madeleine Eskedahl. Madeleine has done it again with a fabulous thriller. In the latest thrilling crime novel from bestselling NZ author Madeleine Eskedahl, a killer stalks the shadows of a quiet town. There are two victims, one message, and a truth that has been buried since the war. Set in the lush, sun-soaked wine country of New Zealand, the Matakana Series delivers gripping, atmospheric mysteries where small-town charm collides with chilling crimes. Featuring a cast of unforgettable characters and layered investigations that span generations, each novel offers a tense, emotionally rich journey into the heart of a seemingly peaceful community with a dark undercurrent. Perfect for fans of Jane Harper, Ann Cleeves, Camilla Lackberg and Tana French.

Books Aloud - Softly Calls the Devil Author Chris Blake

Published: 11/11/2025 5:00 p.m.

Softly Calls the Devil is a dark gripping intricate crime thriller set on the South Island's wild and wooly remote West Coast. Catherine talks with the talented author Chris Blake on how he came up with the book, does his real job as a Detective Senior Sergeant influence his work and where do these dark characters come from? This book is a great read. Listen in to what the author, Chris Blake has to say about the book, the characters and his process in writing the story.

Books Aloud - Home Grown Fruit - A Practical Guide by Kath Irvine and Jason Ross

Published: 04/11/2025 5:00 p.m.

This guide takes you step-by-step to an abundant, naturally healthy, home orchard, and along the way teaches you all the skills you need to be an epic fruit gardener and Catherine had a wonderful chat with the authors - Kath Irvine - organic gardener who has been teaching food growing to Kiwi gardeners for 25 years, and Jason Ross, who runs Habitate, a coastal Otago nursery specialising in heritage fruit trees and edible landscape design. Their book focuses on creating a healthy setup and selecting well-suited varieties. From this solid foundation, fruit trees flourish, care is easy, there are fewer pests and diseases, and most importantly, growing is fun! This inspiring, accessible book is perfect for beginners setting up a new orchard, busy people who want homegrown fruit without the fuss, and seasoned growers seeking deeper knowledge.