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Scrublands - Martin Scarsden by Chris Hammer
Scrublands
Book 1 in the series:Martin Scarsden

Journalist Martin Scarsden is dispatched to the small town of Riversend one year after a mass shooting to report on the town's recovery. As he investigates the murders of two backpackers, he uncovers a complex web of secrets and mysteries within the community. The book weaves together various contemporary threads, including Martin's own PTSD, the town's tragic history, and the ambiguity surrounding the town's name. The story is set in a drought-ridden outback town, where the heat and desolation play a significant role in shaping the events.

The plot of 'Scrublands' is filled with twists and turns, revealing unexpected connections and motivations behind the characters' actions. The book delves into themes of journalism, crime, and small-town dynamics, offering a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged. The writing style evokes a vivid sense of place, with detailed descriptions of the setting and well-developed characters that add depth to the story.

If you liked Scrublands, here are the top 7 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 7 of 7 
  1. #1

    The High Commissioner - Scobie Malone by Jon Cleary
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  2. #2

    The Broken Shore by Peter Temple
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    The Broken Shore by Peter Temple is a gripping crime fiction novel set in a small town in Victoria, Australia. The story follows Joe Cashin, a troubled cop recuperating from injuries, who investigates the murder of a wealthy man while questioning the easy scapegoating of local Aboriginal boys. Temple's writing style is described as exquisite and descriptive, blending crime fiction with literary wonder, capturing the social and political divisions in Australia through a rich sense of place.

    CASHIN WALKED around the hill, into the wind from the sea. It was cold, late autumn, last glowing leaves clinging to the liquidambars and maples his great-grandfather’s brother had planted, their surr...

  3. #3
    Outback
    Book 1 in the series:DS Walker Thriller

    Outback - DS Walker Thriller by Patricia Wolf
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    'Outback' in the series 'DS Walker Thriller' by author Patricia Wolf is a gripping crime novel set in the remote Outback of Queensland, Australia. The storyline follows D.S. Lucas Walker as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of a young German couple who vanish while backpacking in the desolate Outback. The narrative is described as intense and fast-paced, with multiple twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The author expertly portrays the harsh and unforgiving environment of the Outback, creating a vivid and immersive setting for the unfolding investigation.

    The writing style of the book is praised for its ability to captivate readers and immerse them in the story. The characters are well-fleshed out, their motivations and actions are logical, and the plot unfolds in a compelling manner. The descriptions of the Outback are evocative, painting a bleak yet intriguing picture of the remote and hostile landscape where the events of the story take place.


  4. #4

    The Survivors by Jane Harper
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    'The Survivors' by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery set in a small Tasmanian beach town, where a series of tragedies unfold, connecting the past with the present. The story follows Kieran Elliott, who returns to his hometown with his girlfriend and baby daughter, only to be faced with a new murder that seems linked to a tragedy from twelve years earlier. Harper's writing style beautifully captures the atmospheric setting of Tasmania, with its dangerous caves and treacherous storms, while unraveling a complex tale of guilt, lies, and hidden secrets.

    Kieran hoped the numbness would set in soon. The ocean’s icy burn usually mellowed into something more neutral, but as the minutes ticked by he still felt cold. He braced himself as a fresh wave broke...

  5. #5
    Crimson Lake
    Book 1 in the series:Crimson Lake

    Crimson Lake - Crimson Lake by Candice Fox
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    In the small town of Crimson Lake, former police detective Ted Conkaffey, falsely accused of a heinous crime, finds himself teaming up with Amanda Pharrell, a convicted murderer turned private investigator. Together, they take on the case of a missing author, Jake Scully, at the behest of his wife. As they delve into the investigation, they uncover vital evidence that changes the course of their inquiry, all while facing intense media scrutiny and personal demons from their pasts. The book unfolds a complex, layered mystery with engaging characters, a compelling storyline, and a vibrant setting, leading to a stunning and twist-filled conclusion.

    The narrative of "Crimson Lake" is driven by the intriguing dynamics between the flawed yet sympathetic characters of Ted and Amanda. The book intertwines multiple mysteries, offering a story of redemption, resilience, and unlikely partnerships amidst a backdrop of suspicion, corruption, and media attention. Candice Fox's writing style captivates readers with its descriptive, atmospheric storytelling, intricate plot twists, and well-developed characters, making it a fast-paced and riveting mystery set in the steamy and dangerous landscapes of Queensland, Australia.

    I didn’t know Sean was there until his shadow fell over me. I jolted, grabbed my gun. I’d fallen asleep in my usual place on the porch, spread out against the wall on an old blanket. For a moment I th...

  6. #6

    The Lost Man by Jane Harper
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    Jane Harper's The Lost Man is a mystery suspense novel set in the harsh Australian outback. The story follows the Bright family, focusing on the death of middle son, Cameron, and the unraveling of family dynamics and secrets following his mysterious demise. The narrative delves into themes of isolation, family relationships, and the unforgiving landscape of the outback, culminating in a slow-burning exploration of the characters and their past.

    He had crested the rise, gripping the steering wheel as the off-road terrain tried to snatch control from his hands, and suddenly it was all there in front of him. Visible, but still miles away, givin...

  7. #7
    The Dry
    Book 1 in the series:Aaron Falk

    The Dry - Aaron Falk by Jane Harper
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    Set in a small Australian farming town enduring a severe drought, 'The Dry' follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk as he returns to his childhood home for a funeral. The story delves into a murder mystery involving a family tragedy, past secrets, and old friendships. The narrative skillfully weaves between past and present, revealing the complexities of the characters' relationships and the town's hidden resentments, all against the backdrop of the barren land and the harsh realities of rural life.

    The plot unfolds as Falk, now a police investigator, is drawn into solving the suspicious deaths that shake the tight-knit community. The book intricately explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption, keeping readers engaged with its well-paced suspense, cleverly placed clues, and unexpected twists. Jane Harper's writing style vividly evokes the atmosphere of the drought-stricken town, creating a compelling and atmospheric setting for the unfolding mystery.

    Even those who didn’t darken the door of the church from one Christmas to the next could tell there would be more mourners than seats. A bottleneck of black and grey was already forming at the entranc...

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