Verdant rice terraces, fascinating temple ceremonies, and idyllic ribbons of unblemished beaches: Bali is undoubtedly a visual paradise. This island province of Indonesia also sports a rich heritage influenced by Indian, Chinese and Hindu cultures, making for exquisite cuisines, friendly locals, and some otherworldly spa locations. TripFiction picks the best reads to evoke this magical place
A Bali Conspiracy by Shamini Flint (Piatkus)
A portly, dishevelled and wheezing Inspector Singh investigates a serious terrorist attack in Bali, but it becomes evident that amongst the mayhem, there is a murder that needs investigating. A wry and well-written whodunnit.
Balilicious by Becky Wicks (Harper Collins)
This hilarious travelogue describes innumberable encounters with ancient healers addicted to mobile phones, diving around shipwrecks, a spot of black magic and more (not to mention vaginal steaming).
The Paradise Guest House by Ellen Sussman (Canvas)
Jamie, an American adventure guide, is sent on assignment to Bali. Her dreams of exploring the island are shattered when she is caught up in the Bali nightclub bombings. One year later she returns to try and find closure, as well as find the person who rescued her. She settles into a guesthouse and here, several lives come together. But in the end, where will her heart take her?
