Eliza Reid’s debut novel is a murder mystery involving diplomats on an Icelandic island
Eliza Reid, a well-known nonfiction writer hailing from Ottawa, has recently ventured into the realm of fiction with her debut novel, “Death on the Island.” Reid, who has resided in Iceland for more than two decades and acted as the unofficial first lady of Iceland during her husband’s term in office from 2016 to 2024, is no stranger to the intricacies of Icelandic culture and politics.
Her novel is a gripping mystery set in the picturesque Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands) during a diplomatic dinner party. When the deputy ambassador of Canada tragically dies, suspicion falls on his boss, the Canadian ambassador. In a race against time to clear his name and salvage her crumbling marriage, the ambassador’s wife must unravel a web of secrets that threaten to unravel the delicate fabric of diplomatic relations.
“I enjoy reading crime fiction, and after living in Iceland for over two decades, I felt that my adopted homeland provided the perfect backdrop for a dark and brooding tale inspired by classic mysteries,” Reid shared in an email to CBC Books.
Drawing on her firsthand experiences with politics and diplomacy, Reid infuses her novel with a nuanced understanding of the inner workings of international relations. “Having interacted with diplomats from around the globe during my time as the unofficial first lady of Iceland, I have a profound respect for the often overlooked yet essential work they do,” she explained.
Readers can anticipate a riveting and unpredictable narrative in “Death on the Island.” Reid promises a page-turning mystery that will keep readers guessing from start to finish. “You’ll encounter a diverse cast of characters, each harboring their own secrets. Through the lens of diplomacy, you’ll be transported to the enchanting region of Vestmannaeyjar in Iceland,” she teased.
Scheduled for release on April 29, 2025, “Death on the Island” offers a tantalizing glimpse into the underbelly of international relations and the complexities of human nature. You can get a sneak peek of the novel with an excerpt provided above.
In the prologue of the book, we are introduced to Kristján, whose world is upended by a tragic event that plunges him into darkness. The vivid imagery of Vestmannaeyjar comes to life as Kristján navigates through a quaint town, only to stumble upon a shocking discovery that will change everything. The passage evokes a sense of foreboding and sets the stage for the gripping mystery that unfolds in the pages of Reid’s novel.
As we eagerly await the release of “Death on the Island,” it’s clear that Eliza Reid’s foray into fiction promises to captivate readers with its blend of suspense, intrigue, and the evocative Icelandic landscape. Stay tuned for an exhilarating literary journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
