The Lost Tohunga

This is the third book in the ‘Bone Tiki’ series written for young adults. It is a skilful blend of fantasy and New Zealand mythology, intertwining the Māori and Pakeha worlds. The book picks up a year after young adept Matiu Douglas, along with his friends, killed Puarata the evil tohunga makutu and released the taniwha in Lake Waikaremoana. A prologue dated 1956 gives the reader an insight into the childhood of Donna Kyle, one of Mat’s adversaries. Mat, now aged sixteen, has continued his training in magical skills and martial arts with his mentor Aethyln Jones during school holidays. His continuing mental contact with Ngatoro-i-rangi, the legendary tohunga imprisoned somewhere in Aotearoa, the Ghost World, is often sporadic. show more Warlocks are battling to fill the power vacuum left by Puarata, searching for the source of his power, Te Iho (The Heart). The first to find Te Iho will dominate.

On his next visit to Taupo Mat is once again drawn into the conflict when Jones is attacked and a fellow protégé kidnapped. The story of Hinemoa and Tutanekei is replayed with Kurangaituku (the BirdWitch) and Mahuika (Mother of Fire) playing vital roles in the conflict. Taiaha combat scenes, the Patupaiarehe (Aotearoa’s own vampiric fairies), modern day guns, flintlock pistols and a heavily pregnant woman with pink hair, the partner of the formerly immortal warrior Wiremu, add to the intriguing mix. The author has once again brought Maori mythology alive in a gripping and fast-paced fantasy adventure. I was impressed by the blend of Maori and Pakeha cultures, legends and tikanga and how the characters worked together against a common enemy. I would highly recommend this amazing tale. Well written, well researched and thoroughly enjoyable. show less