We’re excited to be giving away two copies of Vice, Virtue and Villainy by Bob Richmond to our GrownUps members!
To be in the draw, simply make sure you’re a GrownUps member, signed up to our newsletter, and fill in your details at the bottom of the page.
Cosy crime at its best – New Zealand author Bob Richmond publishes his humorous debut novel at 78 years old, proving it’s never too late to try your hand at something new!
Crime has never been more entertaining in this riveting tale of corruption and criminality, love and loathing, friendship and feuding.
After being injured in the line of duty, former Detective Inspector George Simpson had a hankering for the quiet life in a coastal town by the sea. But that was before a beautiful stranger confronted him with a gun, putting him bang smack in the middle of a battle for dominance between two rival gang leaders.
Unable to resist the urge to investigate further, George draws on all his police training and sets out on a quest to find the truth. Along the way, he is joined by a band of strong-minded women looking for justice, and he encounters characters both comically entertaining and wicked.
A debut novel from a writer with a light, humorous touch, Vice, Virtue and Villainy is perfect for fans of The Thursday Murder Club and introduces the unforgettable former Detective Inspector George Simpson to readers.
‘Bursting with wit, charm and personality!’ NZ Booklovers
Author Note
‘It’s been a real pleasure to write this, my first book. The original idea came to me a few years ago, just before domestic responsibilities, invented by my wife, forced me to set it aside. Then last year, a local published author was invited by our retirement village management to start a Writers Workshop. The incentive and encouragement were all I needed. Then all I needed were protagonists that readers could enjoy, even identify with, and villains that readers could hiss and boo at.
‘The initial premise and the characters came easily, but the research required for the plot was a whole new journey. I spent so much time on the Internet inquiring about police procedures, methamphetamines and people trafficking, that I expected my home to be surrounded by armed policemen at any moment.
‘What followed just seemed to occur naturally, but not without the occasional threat to my marriage, as I would suddenly experience a plot or dialogue inspiration at all hours of the day or night. If nothing else comes of this fascinating and rewarding experience, at least my typing abilities have improved dramatically.’
About the Author
Bob Richmond lives in Orewa, Auckland, and is a debut novelist at the lively age of 78. He has always enjoyed writing articles and poetry, and a recent involvement with a local writers’ group, led by an established writer, inspired him to expand on an idea he had conceived a few years ago.
Bob, a quiet introvert before moving to New Zealand, changed almost overnight, becoming involved in amateur dramatics, attempting to learn several musical instruments, all at once, and annoying everyone with his satirical writings. He has put on several shows with and for friends, whether they liked it or not, and has, in the last few years, become quite a keen artist in oils on canvas.
His major claim to fame, though, is having represented New Zealand in master’s hockey at home, in Canada and in Hong Kong. He still enjoys Parkrun every Saturday morning and has already started his next novel.
Click here to read an exclusive article from the author, Bob Richmond
You must be logged in to enter this competition.
Not a member? Join now
Terms and conditions
-
-
You must be a GrownUps member and subscribed to our newsletter to be eligible to enter.
-
The competition closes on 5th August 2026. Winners will be notified via email by 6th August 2026.
-
It is your responsibility to provide a correct New Zealand postal address for prize delivery. GrownUps is not responsible for prizes sent to incorrect addresses.
-
Winners will be drawn at random by the GrownUps administration team.
-
GrownUps employees and their immediate families are not eligible to enter.
-
By entering, you agree to GrownUps using your name on social media as a winner of the competition.
-
One entry per household.
-
The prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or other items.
-
You must reside in New Zealand, as the prize can only be delivered within New Zealand.
-
You must be over 50 years of age to enter. Please ensure your membership details are up to date in your dashboard.
-